It's not so much about it being 8x, as it is about being
1.5 to 8x in a light weight package
and a daylight-visible red dot
and some of the best optical clarity in the world.
I've never seen a 1.5-8x, but I've used their 1-4x Shortdot, and IMHO, I believe it is the best 0 to 700 yard scope money can buy. The 1.5-8x should easily take you to 800 and perhaps beyond.
I've had the pleasure of shooting with a 3-20x a couple times before, once on a moving stage. (Again) IMHO, I believe the S&B 3-20 & 5-25 are the best long range scopes by a mile, but man were they heavy. I know we're only talking about around a half to a whole extra pound over the shortdot, but with all that weight high over the bore, it makes the rifle feel a little top heavy when running from stage to stage.
I think either the 1-4× or the 1.5-8x paired with the 3-20x or 5-25x would be the absolute best optics package for a LaRue rifle...
That being said, I'm sure you're starting to appreciate my dilemma..... having LaRue and Schmidt & Bender tastes on a Bushmaster and Bushnell budget.