u/Sad-Foundation-8015

I am buying my first AR-15, and I am pretty much set on the IWI Zion.

I am buying it for shooting targets and home defense, and up until about a week ago, I thought I would throw a red dot on it and call it day. Then I saw a few videos on LPVO, and now I think I can expand the range of things I can do with it. adding longer range target shooting and some hunting.

I won't have it as my primary hunting rifle, as I am also buying a Tikka, but my two questions to the community:

1. Is LPVO a good option for a new shooter, or should I start with a red dot?

2. Recommendations for a good LPVO and a good red dot. The budget is $300 give or take.