longrange - I would prefer true 1x magnification too so the 1-4 may be the way I go if it works well for an AR-10. The reason for the 1.5 was that I thought the reticle was different (I think that's the right word). It appeared that it was better suited for an AR-10. Am I wrong about this? I'm still learning so I hope my questions make sense.

Mark - I am joining CRCI so at some point I will want to try longer range shots. But for now, I was looking for something I could shoot at the range RW Swainson and 303Arms use (170 yds to the steel plates from bench rest and 300 yds from the top of the hill) as well as for a little close quarter training. That's really my immediate need. I'm not sure if I could or would do competition with the AR-10 but I wouldn't rule it out if I could.

I keep hearing things at places like Dick's and Jax that this or that will work for an AR-15 but not an AR-10. As if I don't have enough to learn already LOL.

Thanks for the input, guys.