Normally I'm a "read only" person, but this topic has peaked my curiosity. I have tried both the full size and compact ACOG on my Colt M4, and both proved to be excellant. The down side was one was good for CQB and poor at longer distances, and vice versa. The Leupold CQT combines the best of both. Optics are incredible. Weight? What weight? Battery life? What environment are you in that this is an issue? If it dies, the optic still works, just light up target with attached white light. I carry mine in the line of duty on both patrol and tactical assignments, and believe it is the best multi use optic yet for the M4. To each his own, find something that works for your specific need, and stick with it.
Price is never an issue when I'm shopping for tools to utilize in the line of duty to protect myself and the citizens I serve. If my department doesn't supply, I buy it with personal funds.
The only thing worse than getting hurt would be to get hurt due to substandard or inferior weapons or tools. Get the best you can afford, and then TRAIN, TRAIN, TRAIN, and then train some more!