Dave,
I have learned through much trial and error, that the old verbage, "you get what you pay for" holds true in most things. Optical performance is definately one of those that rings true.
If you are going after antelope and going with a guide, you dont need a spotting scope as the guide will scope out the shooter for you. If you are going on a self guided hunt, and know how to score a shooter on the hoof, then I would recommend you look for better glass.
While the glass is very important, so is the frame, and the attachemnt point to the tripod, and the actual adjustments themselves. If any are loose, or stick, you will have a very hard time getting anything in focus and will be very frustrated.
On a good note, most antelope are hunted in decent light, so the top of the line might not be necessary. I would recommend you head off to a big retailer and try a few of their scopes and see which gives you what you are looking for at the best price.
As for the $38 scope. If you are curious, buy it. Compared to the cost of an antelope hunt, what is $38. You might find it will do all you need and if you drop it or break it, no worries.
Good luck.
Roger