Would like to stay in the 500-600 dollar range....
See if you can check out an Aimpoint and an Eotech, side-by-side.
(Aimpoint totally wins on the battery life)
The two different optics give completely different experiences, from the type of reticle, to the tube vs. holographic plane. Different strokes for different folks. I actually have both, and am having trouble deciding which side of the fence I'm on. One point I've heard a lot, is that Aimpoints are supposed to be less desirable for eyes with an astigmatism, but I actually find the eotech reticle to be fuzzier.
I've got the money to buy my optics but I need to check some out in person and side by side because I have pretty severe astigmatism in both eyes. I may just put optics on hold and use the $$$ to build me another PSA rifle.
I would encourage you to fully outfit the rifle you have, before starting on another. BTDT, and can tell you that fewer, well-accessorized rifles, are more satisfying than a whole slew of bare bones guns.
What is the difference between a red dot on a 50 dollar optic and the dot on a 500 dollar optic if you have good batteries and the sight holds zero?
I would encourage you to fully outfit the rifle you have, before starting on another. BTDT, and can tell you that fewer, well-accessorized rifles, are more satisfying than a whole slew of bare bones guns.
Ahhh yes, but a rifle without high dollar optics (irons only) is very satisfying. The 2nd rifle build is in the plans anyway, it would just force me to take more time choosing optics. Hopefully I can find a shop with multiple quality brands so I can compare them.
(Aimpoint totally wins on the battery life)