My main issue with Scout Rifles is to your own point that they aren't forgiving in close to mid range combat. The majority of maps in Crucible are close quarters and it makes using a scout rifle impractical. My personal view of the scout rifle is that it's a situational gun and there are better options out there. Also while I listed exotics as my to-go guns there are plenty of legendary hand cannons or pulse rifles that out shine most scout rifles. Check out the Future War Cult hand cannon the Fulcrum or Ill Will which are both great guns to use in almost any situation in PvP.