Last year I bought a S&W MP15 Sport II. This is my first AR and to be quite honest I'm not very knowledgeable about it. I bought it through gunbroker.com and I chose one with a quad rail already installed. It has the fixed front sight and flip-up rear sight.

In short, I'm looking for some answers involving mounting optics. The primary use for this firearm will be hunting and target practice. I want to mount a magnified scope for shooting coyotes and prairie dogs but would also like to be able to mount a red dot scope for self defense and close range hunting.

I need to know if removing the front sight is necessary/advised, and basically,what is my best option for outfitting this gun to fulfill my needs.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Also, I am new to the world of forums in general, so please bear with me haha. Thanks!