Funny you should say that, I’m getting a scope for my .300 win mag next. Still trying to pick one out. I have to admit though, I am a fan of the AR15 and the 5.56 mm round. It’s capable of a lot more than some people give it credit for. it isn’t a “long range” rifle/round, you’re right about that but at mid range, it’s plenty adequate.
I’ve been looking for a new red dot, myself.
Can’t seem to find one in bifocal ;-D
The .223/5.56 is adequate out to 300 yards. Anything beyond that and retained energy is questionable. The effectiveness of any round at any range is the amount of energy that you can put on and in a target. For extended range shooting a heavier bullet traveling and a good velocity is a much better choice. It has and retains superior energy to the smaller lighter bullets. Hyper velocity lighter bullets do not make up for the difference in weight. That is not how the math works out.
I would take a look at the Shepherd scopes. I have a couple and use them on long range targets/hunting. The key to this scope is you have to reload. By being able to adjust the velocity you can fine tune the down range bullet impact and really get great results at 500-1000 yards. If you reload and do the research and practice this scope makes long range shooting much easier for most.