Good lord, I had no idea this fragrance expertise was at our fingertips! My answer will sound uneducated, but I’m a manly man, and for me it’s pretty much coming down to Ghost Town Barber and Bay Rum, depending on mood and activity.
Some good suggestions here. One would think the OP's questions would be easier to answer but they are not. None of them. My gut feeling is the OP might like some leather scents and there were not too many of those named. I cannot think of anything in the $50 range and I sure would not bu a whole bottle blind. Vetivers might fit, too, but one has to like vetiver. I love vetiver. Try Guerlian, I suppose.
Nice list sixcats. Very eclectic. I own Yatagan, but I do not wear it. A polarizing frag. Although the dry down is not nearly as remarkable as the top notes.
I need to try Kouros. It strikes me that Kouros and Antaeus must be fierce rivals but brothers in arms as far as truly masculine scents go!Kouros by YSL. Little more that 50 but well worth it. Very business and manly. Lasts 16+ hrs on me. YMMV. Wife insists I keep it in stock, fine with me! Been my go to for years.