I have a computer business so I'll give you my standard spiel .
Choose a reputable brand (Lenovo/IBM, Toshiba, HP/Compaq, Dell) as they have better warranty support, driver updates ,spare parts availability and software compatibility.
Decide where your priorities are regarding durability, battery life, graphics performance and portability, these are, to me, the main differentiating factors in laptops.
As soon as you bring game playing into the equation you will probably have to sacrifice battery life and portability for fast graphics / large display. Laptops that can fluidly play newer games fall into the "Desktop replacement" category.
Don't underestimate the durability factor, especially if you intend to use it at a scope. As laptops have gotten cheaper it's their ruggedness that seems to have suffered most. I see a lot that easily crack screens, break hinges and twist so much that the fans rub on the casing :-(
I like the Lenovo
Thinkpad L series. I just ran through the website and optioned one up with 2.4 Ghz i3 proc, win 7 Pro, discreet AMD graphics, 4 gig RAM, 320G hard drive and nine cell battery (over 7 hours) . It came out at $1289.00. Add 475.00 for MS Office Pro (find cheaper alternatives ...)
It's pretty tough, performs well, not too heavy and bulky, and seems to
play COD alright .
Toshibas would be my second choice (but that's really just a Holden vs Ford sort of argument)
Another tip, pick a shortlist and then read plenty of reviews.