I know what I want but I'm having a little trouble finding the right scope/red dot.

I really like the red dot/illumination idea but at the same time I want magnification.  For the type of shooting I will be doing, I don't think I will need anything over 4x or so.  If there is such a scope, I would prefer for it to be mounted on the upper rail only.  Everything I am looking for is pretty much pointing to an ACOG but I don't know if I can spend that much money on an optic right now.  Are there any other good quality optics on the market that aren't as expensive as an ACOG with these features?  I may just have to sacrifice for a red dot/holo sight and add an Aimpoint 3x magnifier later.  If this is the best idea, should I stay with the red-dot or move to an EOtech? (I would imagine that this is just a choice of personal preference.

Sorry for all the questions.  I'm just trying to make sure I have all the information before I spend the money.  Thank you in advance.

Trijicon 1.25-4X will work better for your requirements than the ACOG and it costs less too.  I prefer a true 1X on the low end but those are more expensive than the ACOG for the most part.  I suggest also looking for a good deal on a Meopta Meostar 1-4X.

If it is for Law Enforcement or Military get a red dot or a trijicon.  If it isn't get a variable scope like an IOR 1.1X4 or Horus Vision 1X4 or the new Leupold Mark 4 1.5X5 or the Leupold CQT with the new reticle or the Trijicon Accupoint.