Will you be glassing longer distance? If so 10x. If not then get the 8x. Another thing to consider is if you carry a set of 15/18's the 8x would be my recommendation. This way you have a broader field of view when searching off hand and can still use the larger magnification for longer distances.
Here is a photo of my best buck (it's rack anyhow). Not the biggest by any means, but still an awesome hunt. Took it at 364 yards. Let's see photos of your best.
I've sent some things in for repair from my own ignorance. They were great. They try to keep repairs down to 1 week turn around if possible. I think they claim 1-2 weeks.