M44 Standard better than Custom version?

I prefer bolt action sniper rifles over semi auto ones like M1A. For a long time I thought M44 Custom was the best version, mostly because of two additional attachment slots - mag and grip. Being able to put there a mag with +weapon damage seemed like it would turn out much better than Classic or Hunting versions which don't have mag and grip slots. I crafted about 15 of the lvl 31 M44 Custom back then when it required Division Tech trying to get a good roll, with no luck unfortunately. Only quite good base damage.

But today I found lvl 30 M44 Classic in DZ that is much better than my lvl 31 M44 Custom. Much higher base damage, higher headshot bonus and perfect roll for my playstyle as skill power/support player - Skilled, Brutal and Coolheaded as third talent, and lower talents requirements because of lvl 30 are awesome too. I'd never thought I might go back to use lvl 30 gear since all I have now is at least lvl 31. Downgrade on paper, but actually it's an upgrade.

Does anyone know what's the difference between Classic and Hunting version? Is Hunting better than Classic like usually First Wave/Socom versions of other weapons?

One more question, what's better to use for scope? I have two options to choose from - higher HS damage and accuracy or lower HS damage and crit chance?