If you accept that (1) how much throw you lose varies depending on the LES of the emitter, and (2) a larger LES results in losing proportionally less throw, perhaps you would have an easier time believing. I once saw someone measure 2 C8’s, one with SMO and another with OP, both achieving 500+m of throw and differing less than 10m. It’s many years ago though and I’m having some difficulty finding it. [EDIT: found a reference to it.]
But none of the above is relevant if you’re ok with the beam. I personally cannot stand the dark ring in the hotspot–keep in mind that artifacts are almost always worse IRL than on camera!
Well aware of this. I just try to chime in whenever I can when I see a potentially misinformed decision, whether you believe me or want to take it is up to you. I certain wish I had received more advice rather than less, especially during my earlier years in the hobby–could have saved me many wasted purchases and failed mods.