AR scopes tend to be lower magnification because they are used for shorter ranged, more dynamic shhoting sports (and of course combat). They are not really best for long range precision. High magnification means small field of view. If you can't find your target or can't fucus in close enough to see clearly.....you ain't gonna make good hits.
Remember, CDN militay standard now is a 3.4 power, and can be counted on for good hits on a man sized target to 500 yards or so.
I agree with this statement after trying a whole bunch of different magnification ranges on my Defender
First was the LMT irons
then a Bushnell Holosight (basically a EoTech) 1x
then with a 3x magnifier.
then a 3-9x40mm (Trophy)
then a 1-4x (DMS-1)
Only to find out a 1x Aimpoint was the one that helped me keep the most number of shots on the target. (out to 100m)
Granted when shooting from the bench, trying to punch tiny groups this is less than an ideal setup. So for that, a quick release and a Redfield 4x12 for when I feel the need. With a bi-pod this is plenty accurate and since my range is only out to 200m 12x is PLENTY. It's certainly more accuracy than I'm capable of shooting.
If you are mainly using your AR in the bench, which is totally legitimate,
LMT make this overpriced doodad for mounting a 1x optic in parallel with your magnified.
https://shopquestar.com/shopping65/shopexd.asp?id=1607&bc=no
I'd sooner go the fabsport route:
http://ww w.fabsports.ca/degree-offset-rail-mountweaver-style-p-1130.html?language=en
This way I think you can keep your variable optic for the bench stuff and still run and gun as you wish.
Food for thought.
Oh and KevinB started a sticky in the optics section that really helped me sort out my AR optics needs vs wants.
It's a good read.
http://www.canadiangunnutz.com/forum/showthread.php?t=31083
