IIRC, the Custom Shop Tascos were retailing at somewhere close to $500 but I don't know anyone who would pay retail for those scopes.
www.samplelist.com/has the same scope for $179. Look for item #680 towards the bottom of the page.
He is trying to move that scope because it probably has been sitting there quite awhile and Tasco is kaput.
$300 is middle ground. You can get a nice scope in that range like a Bushnell Elite 3200 5-15x40mm at
www.skyoptics.com for $272. There are quite a few Weavers in that price range also that are fine scopes. Take a look around at the different optics websites for sales and such and you might find a great deal
Here are a few sites to look over:
www.bearbasin.com/catalog.htm www.natchezss.com/ www.wholesalehunter.com/main/plc/plcoptics.htm www.swfa.com/ I believe SWFA is a board sponsor who is a bit flexible on pricing. Doesn't hurt to ask politely and mention AR15.com if you place an order to see if they can come down a bit.
With a bit more cash, $395, you could get the Nikon Monarch 6.5-20x44 which in my opinion is a fine fine scope.
I would pass on the Tasco. I know I have said this various time but it is worth repeating, if that scope goes tits up you are screwed.
Hope this helps.