@JRB, maybe we can get a thread split, I don't want to completely derail this thread but I completely agree with you about combat environments about precision loss 4x to 3x. Though for me, even though you lose some precision at 4 + for the shorter engagement ranges the advantage difference on having 3x is its easier to run house to house and you get a little more SA which for my experiences was more important but if you are in A'stan or places where there are longer engagement ranges then that's different. Seriously though you and rcbusmc24 make excellent observations and points. I also get what you are saying about needing/wanting a solid barrel and FF tube to make it worth the squeeze but even if I had a basic gun a Vortex would probably be riding on it if not something else at max budget, since I am not in anymore. Caveat I'd say and as you pointed out would be for training gun use by someone who still has their feet in issued boots, I see your point and couldn't agree more for your situation. If I were still wearing issued boots I would be running the most common optic on all my stuff for the same reasons.
@rcbusmc24, I am excited for the Corps this concept is really interesting and seems to follow trend with what SOCOM is doing with common optic. Better measure after all than new guns, I think will make a great difference at squad level. The Corps does a great job at training marksmen and impressing upon Marines that they are all riflemen first. A squad optic with 1-6 will be the ticked I'm certain so long as they are robust enough to withstand a Marine. Your points on night shooting are spot on even at 90M at night I had a hard time making shots due to poor illumination through one when we were running SKT's. Newer lens coatings and light transmission on some of the newer variables are insane. Not wanting to emit IR can and could especially in the future is a real concern. Integration with PPE getting the extended eye relief and all the other points are spot on. As for getting sucked in yes that can be an issue but you already know the fix to that by making sure SL's and TL's are switched on. Exciting times for you guys for sure. You could really get into the weeds on this.