I recently picked up a Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8 variable. I like it a lot, but haven't used it enough to really form a definitive opinion. I got a great deal on it, so I'm pretty much going to stick with it. I just really like that it's a Vortex, with the warranty and customer support. The Strike Eagle is mid $300 I think, and the next up is the Viper that would be a couple hundred more.

The Primary Arms 1-6 and 1-8 are the direct competitor and have the superior ACSS reticle. I think their warranty is not nearly as good as Vortex so you have some trade offs. Primary Arms also has a predator reticle that could be handy for coyote hunting since you mentioned that. They really know their customer base and offer a lot of variety at a good price.