The age old question, red dot(and magnifier) or LVPO? I recently built out an AR, a 14.5 BCM upper on an Aero Precision M4E1 lower. What I'm now debating is my optic choice. This is my first blaster, it will be used for anything and everything from a bump in the night to range days and whatever else comes down the road. I don't necessarily plan to shoot at longer ranges with it however I would not be opposed to it and see the value in having the capability. I have narrowed it down to an Eotech EXPS 3-0 and the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6 LVPO. I've done lots of research on what both optics are good at and I've gotten stuck. The conclusion I have came to is that both optics have pro's and con's, however neither have any drawbacks that cannot be overcome by training. As of now, the Eotech is sitting at ~$650 and the Viper, including a mount(Badger 1.70''), will set me back ~$900. Right now I am drawn to the Eotech because of the money I can save to put towards more training. At the same time, I am concerned the Eotech will leave me wanting more in the form of a magnifier or a different optic to reach out to greater distances. Does anyone have time with either of these optics or similar counterparts that might be able to guide my purchase? I'm also open to suggestions on other optics, however my budget caps out around $900 for an optic and a mount(if needed). Thank you in advance.