OK, I am now accepting input on an appropriate optic for this build. Pictured below is my M5 .308 build with a Vortex Viper HS-LR that I've borrowed from my .223 Wylde SPR-ish / precision recce rifle. It misses it's glass and wants it back.



I'll primarily be shooting 600 yards and in. I know that 10x is fine for that, but I want a bit more juice, at least 14x, maybe as much as 20x. My problem is that I hate weight yet want "tactical" features. Also, my low end Swarovski Z3 has spoiled me on good glass, so I don't think I can do another Vortex Viper. I have two Vipers and they are great all-around packages for the price, but I want better glass for my .308. Budget is $1,000 - $1,500, give or take.

The current front runner is the new Zeiss Conquest V6 3-18x50. Excellent Schott glass, decent reticle options, 103MOA of vertical, 22 ounces, and I can get preferred pricing that gets it in my budget.

Also under consideration:

Nightforce SHV F1 4-14xx50 but I'd like a bit more magnification and I hear the glass isn't a good.
Sig Tango4 4-16x44 or maybe the Tango6 3-18x44. Look like good overall packages but heavy
Vortex Razor 5-20x50 - looks good, I can get a vet discount, weighs a ton so not seriously considering
Vortex Razor LH 3-15x42 - razor glass in a light weight package, vet discount makes it very affordable, but a 1" tube and capped turrets

Suggestions / thoughts?