I'm in the market for a night vision riflescope. I'll only use it a couple times a year on hog hunts. So I really don't want to tie up more than $1,000 in it. Any suggestions based on experience?

Take a look at Sightmark PhotonXT. It's digital nightvision. They have 4x 42mm and 6x 50mm versions. Amazon had them $75 off normal price on black Friday weekend. Clear, seems to hold zero. Usable in daylight with the cap closed. Lighter than most units. Probably about equal to Gen II optical vs digital NV.

i don't know pf a gen 3 in that price range and to be very usable it must be gen 3

Fella over on the Texas Bowhunter website is dealer in the Sightmark nv scope and for hogs at that distance will work.He can also beat amazons price.