I still love my Acogs, but for new rifles I have been enjoying the small PA SLX microprism. In green dot of course....
https://www.primaryarms.com/primary-arms-slx-3x-microprism-with-green-illuminated-acss-raptor-556-308-reticle-yard
Meopta Optika 5x4-20x50
Meopta Sport 3-15x50
Great glass for the money, focus down to 10 yards for Parallax.
The top one is made in CZ.
Should be in the $400 range.
I use a mix of thermal and night vision. Love to scan with the thermal and take the shot with night scope.
I am using entry level thermal and Gen III NV.
If I had high dollar thermal like @GoNoGo was talking about, different matter.
Even the thermal entry level lets me “see” animals I cannot...
I use the Shield on my SC, after 3 months I have it down, muscle memory, hands, head. Fast accurate placements. Liked it, got a Sig Legion X with a Holosun, and am almost there. Takes more practice in my opinion than irons, but once you have it, you are on....
Still shoot my STI's better with...