It sounds like you have done your homework. I have an Armalite AR-10, but I have had a hanckering for a SA Socom 16 myself. For the money that you are about to spend, I would go with a Steyr SSG bolt gun for better accuracy. It is still a "tactical" rifle and can be had with 20 heavy barrel and synthetic stock. Being a "sniper rifle", accuracy is a given. I owned one years ago, and it's one of those guns that I traded and wish I had back. I have never shot a Socom, but I have been at the range when a guy had one there. It looked like a ball to shoot and was pretty accurate, but this guy was shooting 100 yards with open sights (not a good test of accuracy to me). I think a "scout" set up would be good on the Socom. Good luck with your choice. Be sure to let us know what you choose.