You raise a great question. I, too, have a new generation Ranch Rifle stainless. I thought about the scope question a lot.
First, we have an 18.5 inch barrel which takes better advantage of the 5.56/.223 ballistics than a 16 inch or 14 inch barrel. That does argue for some glass.
Second, the .223 I believe is one of those inherently accurate calibers, but I'm no ballistics expert.
Third, I see the Ranch Rifle as partly a defensive arm and partly a possible hunting rifle for smaller game, but it is not a 300 yard pronghorn antelope or 400 yard big horn sheep rifle, and it is not a benchrest competition rifle. I know this is obvious but it bears repeating.
So, taking all of the above into account, I put a Burris Euro Diamond 1-4x24 scope on mine. This scope got great reviews....check it out. It is a good size which does not overwhelm the Ranch Rifle either in length or weight. It'll work fine for fending off urban zombies at closer ranges in a SHTF scenario, or taking 100 yard (or maybe a tad more) shots at varmints, coyotes, etc. Also, if I ever get a chance to go after dangerous game (which is not likely), I can pull this scope off and put it on a big game rifle.
Given the above, you also might want to consider a 3x or 4x red dot type scope. I'm still thinking about getting one of them.
I'm not one who is into huge magnification, but my old eyes need glass for sure. Anyone who has tried to hold on a target, offhand, with a scope dialed up to 9x or more knows how very hard that is. That level of magnification is not practical in the above scenarios, but fine if you are benchresting or a sniper.
