Scope conundrum

[jlewis406]

I am re-purposing an AR-15 as a target rifle IOT save some barrel wear on my more expensive barrel burners. I typically purchase Leupolds MR/T, Trijicon's, etc but I am trying to keep the price down on this one. I was really interested in the VX-R Patrol 3-9 but I've heard a lot of people complaining about the reticle being too thick for precision shooting so that one is out. I had a PST Viper 4-16 but was very disappointed in the clarity and eyebox size. Does anyone have any recommendations?

My minimum requirements are:
$500 - $600 range
30mm tube
MilDot reticle
Exposed 1/4 MOA turrets
Bottom magnification 2.5x
Max magnification range 16x

Thanks in advance for your suggestions. Hands on experience trumps second hand knowledge for me.