jmayton, I currently have the Leopould Vari X III in 3.5 to 10 power on my M4 Bushy. I am going back to a smaller lighter Leopould Vari X II in 2 to 7 power. It is about as fast as open sights, works good in close, as you say, and has enough magnification to handle the longer shots.
For a trigger, I put a set screw under the trigger for over-travel, smoothed the group only a little, and tweeked the springs. Turned out well, and is reliable. I have always liked this method, and it only requires taking the handle off, and a little filing on the hammer after setting the over travel, so the saftey will go back in.
My go to has the last several years a Model 92 in 357 mag, but the eyes are changing and the hogs are running more.
I know you already know what I know, that the 223 is plenty for the biggest Texas hogs.