why are those features important? I am feeling like i should just learn to shoot a lot better and then get the tech scope.
They aren't
that important!
If you load your own you can start with lighter loads with lighter bullets to get used to things and for break in and learning all about tuning the load and developing drop charts.
You won't need a muzzle brake until you start exceeding '06 factory 150 grain bullet ballistics. That's said as I'm a recoil wimp
. I shoot prone exclusively and really like my collar bone the way it is.
Regarding the scope.
The reticle is a very personal decision. For me, Mils are too big. 1 mil = 3.6" @ 100.
1 MOA marks are better "for me". 1 moa - 1.047" @ 100. Close enough to 1" for my shooting.
The sucky thing is that Mil dot reticle scopes usually have MOA clicks on the turrets. What's with that?
My fave scope is Mil reticle and MOA or Inches Per Hundred Yards (IPHY) I'm not exactly sure which. Plus they are !/8th MOA or IPHY. DUH!!
I've held over, held under, held on, clicked elevation, clicked windage until my brain is mush!!
I've settled on a scope with an MOA reticle and MOA turrets. 1/4 Minute clicks and 1/2 MOA marks on the reticle.
I click for elevation and hold off for windage. The windage marks are at 1 MOA. Descerning partial MOA hold off for windage seems quite natural, for me.
Start off slower than faster and you'll enjoy life better.
I'd recommend a "grind to fit" Limbsaver recoil pad. When ground to fit DO NOT remove any from the rear side tapering the sides and top to fit the stock. This makes for a large surface area against your shoulder. This in and of it self will greately reduce the need for a muzzle brake. What the brake brings to the party as much as felt recoil reduction is the ability to spot your own shots. Darn good feature.
When It comes times for "good" 1k yard scope you'll be paying nearly as much as or even more than was ponyed up for the rifle.
Shop around for a starter scope that will get you to more than 500 yds if you need to cut a corner up front. Then start learning and saving for the next level scope.
Mostly have fun and shoot.....
Hope this helps.