Good read! Nice commentary on the mixed arms environment and why a single user needs something else.
The SAGE stock can certainly become a beast! I have a Leupold LR/T mounted on mine for a DMR type rig and it is heavy. To reduce some weight, I have found that the side rails just aren't going to get any use and stripped them off. It's not much weight, but it's at the far end of the rifle.
I'm also looking to ditch the bottom rail and replace it with a plastic spacer to mount the handguard and a simple sling swivel screwed into the chassis. I suspect with all rails removed, it is about 1/2lb more in weight loss, and better handling since it is out at the end of a lever arm.
A question on the ACOG: Did you ever try mounting it on the rear stripper clip mount? That may allow you to trade up in magnification and still get the eye relief you need.