It will take a little getting used to, but a variable is the way to go, mine has a 4" relief.
http://www.eurooptic.com/vortex-vipe...st-14st-m.aspx I also have the
http://www.vortexoptics.com/product/...1-mrad-reticle mounted on my LR .308. I have used many types of optics in the past for many different uses, prior to using a variable, I used the T1 and a 3x constantly. As I stated before, it's just too much to keep flipping/turning and keeping four lenses clean instead of two. I am pretty sure most of here know what K.I.S.S. means. It truly is the best of both worlds, give it a try, maybe buy a cheap one to get the idea, once you figure it out, buy a system you can depend on.
On my last deployment I used my issued M68, T1 with a 3x and a MEOPTA ZD. The 68 is built for the task for sure, the T1 and 3x worked flawlessly, the MEOPTA is a great unit, just not rugged enough for combat in my opinion (turret caps are too fine of thread and got cross threaded when I hit it dismounting my vic, had to take it apart later that night so I could make adjustments to windage). I do not abuse my gear, but I use it as I need, how I need.
Maybe someday I will do a write up of the three systems and what I learned, I will be going through the paces this summer with my Vortex, unfortunately it will not be a real combat situation. No matter what anyone says, it's different when it's live and your decision making is life dependent.
Here's a pic of the MEOPTA, as you can see I am speaking from first hand experience, not repeating what I read from the internet. If you notice, I buy what I use, and use the same gear in and out of the military.
http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k1...psbfe6730e.jpg