View Full Version : AR-15 scopes
I've been looking at Trijicon ACOGs ands my head is spinning. Can anyone give me a decent understanding of the options for an AR-15 scope? The prices fluctuate wildly between models, yet I don't understand all the differences. I currently have a cheapie varmint scope 4x50, I think, but would like something with better low light capabilities. Most shooting is at the 100-200 yard range. Haven't gotten around to shooting people yet, but the way some people here (and one other place) piss me off, it's only a matter of time. :D
Thx
nhlgopens
08-16-2011, 3:18pm
OpticsPlanet.com | Low Prices, Free S&H on Binoculars, Sunglasses, Night Vision Goggles, Riflescopes, Flashlights, Rangefinders - Hunting, Outdoor, Science & Military Gear (http://www.opticsplanet.com/)
Yerf Dog
08-16-2011, 3:19pm
:D :waiting:
OpticsPlanet.com | Low Prices, Free S&H on Binoculars, Sunglasses, Night Vision Goggles, Riflescopes, Flashlights, Rangefinders - Hunting, Outdoor, Science & Military Gear (http://www.opticsplanet.com/)
:toetap: Where to shop isn't a problem. What to buy is.
bryanZ06
08-16-2011, 5:56pm
Check out the Trijicon Accupoint TR24. It's a 1-4x with either a red or green article. I had the green one (TR24G) for awhile and liked it.
Blademaker
08-16-2011, 6:18pm
Eotec on mine
nhlgopens
08-16-2011, 6:32pm
:toetap: Where to shop isn't a problem. What to buy is.
They have great comparison shopping and a lot of customer reviews. It's not just a shopping store... :cheers:
stingraymyway
08-16-2011, 6:34pm
Scopes can be an adventure/ nightmare, depending on what you want to do with your AR. You might even consider different scopes for the intended use; hunting, home defense ..... I'd take in a few gun shows and check out what’s available in your price range. A buddy of mine has a nightvision scope on his. Damn thing cost more than his AR.
RedLS1GTO
08-16-2011, 6:43pm
For 100 yds with an AR I use an EOTech XPS2-0. No need IMO for a magnified scope at that range... especially if you are actually looking at it from a "tactical" point of view. You should be able to pretty easily see your target from 100 without magnification. The EOTech lets you fire both eyes open.
http://i126.photobucket.com/albums/p90/botch1980/Random/IMG_4317.jpg
Product: XPS2 | L-3 EOTech Holographic Weapons Systems (http://www.eotech-inc.com/products/sights/xps2)
If you are going to be shooting longer distances, my first suggestion would be to save the money for the scope and spend it on something other than an AR. Of course the AR can be shot at longer range. I have seen folks be accurate up to about 600 (not me) with long barrel ARs and supposedly there are people out there that have used them to 1000 but I have no idea how. The 5.56/.223 just wasn't made to be a long range round. My suggestion would be to pick up a nice .30-06 rifle for well under $1000 that would be a lot more fun to shoot than the AR at 200 yds +. I'm a pretty good shot and even with decent optics, I'm pretty useless with a "normal" barrel AR out past about 200.
On the other hand, if you like the AR and just like seeing what you can do with it, this is a pretty good combo for the 100-200 yard range.
Product: MPO ll | L-3 EOTech Holographic Weapons Systems (http://www.eotech-inc.com/products/sights/mpo2)
Optics are one of those things that usually hold pretty true to the "you get what you pay for" principal. In my far less than expert opinion, most of the cheaper scopes are a waste of money.
TexasBulldog
08-16-2011, 6:49pm
i have a few different setups one good way to go is the EoTech with the Larue flip to side mount with the Eotech Magnifier. Works very well, solid as it could possibly be and fast to switch from up close to the 4x magnifier. The downside to this is it takes up a good bit of space.
its on my "all around ar" and i really enjoy it.
http://i52.tinypic.com/2pq7vdj.jpg
http://i52.tinypic.com/33c91jo.jpg
RedLS1GTO
08-16-2011, 7:27pm
i have a few different setups one good way to go is the EoTech with the Larue flip to side mount with the Eotech Magnifier.
I'm starting to see a trend...
Mine run the gamut from Eotech to Aimpoint to US Optics. If you want a lightweight and fast acquisition optic for relatively close range, look at an Aimpoint Micro. Either the H1 or T1 is good. I use the T1 which is NVG compatible, but you may not need that. Eotech is also good, but kinda sucks if you are astigmatic at all.
73sbVert
08-16-2011, 10:06pm
I got a Vortex Strikefire, and it's been absolutely dead on, rock steady, and was fairly inexpensive to boot:
http://www.libertyoptics.com/contents/media/l_strikefire_rendered.jpg
Contact Scott at Liberty Optics (http://www.libertyoptics.com/index1.html)
Outstanding customer service and great guy to do business with!
:thumbs:
RedLS1GTO
08-16-2011, 10:36pm
US Optics.
http://railbastard.freeforums.org/images/smilies/drool.gif
On an AR?
What model? What do you use it for?
Sorry for the mass questions... Interesting to hear the perspective of somebody who obviously owns/shoots more than me. I've never understood spending the $$$$ for real primo optics on an AR. The 5.56 just doesn't have the range/accuracy to make the best use of it for "real world" use. Of course match shooting, etc would be a different story.
I use the T1 which is NVG compatible, but you may not need that.
There are a few EOTech models with the NVG compatibility as well. Not arguing about which one is better. Just adding info for the OP should he need/want it.
Eotech is also good, but kinda sucks if you are astigmatic at all.
Never heard that one... but it makes sense. Is the Aimpoint not as much of a problem in that regard?
Nothing wrong with Eotech as long as you are aware of its issues. For people with astigmatism, there will be a pronounced halo and distortion. The Aimpoint not so much. The battery life is not great. The Aimpoint has awesome battery life. You almost don't even have to turn the Aimpoint off. The biggest issue is that on some pic rails, the Eotech mounts a bit crooked and is off axis. Hard to tell unless you really look for it, but it can affect your point of impact.
As for the US Optics, I use an SN-4 and SN-12. They both have superior glass, are highly durable and accurate. Their downfall is their size and weight. They are heavy.
This is why I generally have an Aimpoint Micro T1 on my rifle. For sheer size, battery life, and mounting capabilities, it's very hard to beat. It's used with both eyes open unlike a typical rifle scope. Same as Eotech.
http://railbastard.freeforums.org/images/smilies/drool.gif
On an AR?
What model? What do you use it for?
Sorry for the mass questions... Interesting to hear the perspective of somebody who obviously owns/shoots more than me. I've never understood spending the $$$$ for real primo optics on an AR. The 5.56 just doesn't have the range/accuracy to make the best use of it for "real world" use. Of course match shooting, etc would be a different stry.
There are a few EOTech models with the NVG compatibility as well. Not arguing about which one is better. Just adding info for the OP should he need/want it.
Never heard that one... but it makes sense. Is the Aimpoint not as much of a problem in that regard?
RedLS1GTO
08-17-2011, 9:26am
Nothing wrong with Eotech as long as you are aware of its issues. For people with astigmatism, there will be a pronounced halo and distortion. The Aimpoint not so much. The battery life is not great. The Aimpoint has awesome battery life. You almost don't even have to turn the Aimpoint off. The biggest issue is that on some pic rails, the Eotech mounts a bit crooked and is off axis. Hard to tell unless you really look for it, but it can affect your point of impact.
As for the US Optics, I use an SN-4 and SN-12. They both have superior glass, are highly durable and accurate. Their downfall is their size and weight. They are heavy.
This is why I generally have an Aimpoint Micro T1 on my rifle. For sheer size, battery life, and mounting capabilities, it's very hard to beat. It's used with both eyes open unlike a typical rifle scope. Same as Eotech.
Good info. :cheers:
Have you used the XPS EOTech line? They use the 123 battery instead of the AA that the 5XX series uses. I have had mine in for a long time and a LOT of shooting on the original battery. I've even been an idiot and left it on for days at a time by accident and it is still going like a champ. My friend has had to change the batteries on his older 512 model in the same span. I have also noticed (maybe it's in my head) that the reticle is much clearer on the newer model. I wonder if they might have addressed some of those issues.
I'm trying to figure out what direction to go with my next AR. Looking at a good deal on a Colt 6940...
If you are going to be shooting longer distances, my first suggestion would be to save the money for the scope and spend it on something other than an AR.
Already have the AR, so that horse is not only out of the barn, it's down by the river having a drink of water.
I'm looking for a Win .308 single action for longer distances, but I think I know which scope I want for that.
As for the US Optics, I use an SN-4 and SN-12. They both have superior glass, are highly durable and accurate. Their downfall is their size and weight. They are heavy.
This is why I generally have an Aimpoint Micro T1 on my rifle. For sheer size, battery life, and mounting capabilities, it's very hard to beat. It's used with both eyes open unlike a typical rifle scope. Same as Eotech.
Your recommendation is good enough for me. The US Optics are too expensive but the Aimpoint looks perfect for my needs.
Thanks.
RedLS1GTO
12-22-2012, 6:38pm
Eotech is also good, but kinda sucks if you are astigmatic at all.
Time for a topic revival.
I have now seen this phenomenon play out first hand. Just had a friend trying to shoot my 6920 with an XPS2-0 EOTech and couldn't use it for shit. Kept complaining that it was "blurry" and distorted. On the other hand, it looked perfect to me.
I have another factory Colt that I was deciding how to equip and just ordered an Aimpoint Pro for it. I have nothing but good things to say about my EOTech so I'm curious to see how they compare on otherwise identical rifles.
Chris Fowler
12-22-2012, 6:53pm
My fantasy football season wraps up tomorrow. I have a solid shot at winning the league and $450.
If that happens, an Eotech XPS2-0 is coming.
RedLS1GTO
12-22-2012, 7:12pm
If that happens, an Eotech XPS2-0 is coming.
I am generally the type of person that once I find something good, I stick with it (hence multiple 6920 Colts). It was a big step for me to step away from the EOTech that has served me well and try the Aimpoint. :ohnoes:
I have an Eotech XPS3 on one of mine and absolutely love it. Haven't put a NV in front of it...yet. :D
FTR, I have astigmatism in my right eye and haven't had any problems using it.
DJ_Critterus
12-22-2012, 8:33pm
I've been looking at Trijicon ACOGs ands my head is spinning. Can anyone give me a decent understanding of the options for an AR-15 scope? The prices fluctuate wildly between models, yet I don't understand all the differences. I currently have a cheapie varmint scope 4x50, I think, but would like something with better low light capabilities. Most shooting is at the 100-200 yard range. Haven't gotten around to shooting people yet, but the way some people here (and one other place) piss me off, it's only a matter of time. :D
Thx
I love the 4X32 ACOG. H&K makes something similar, but not meant for lots of sbuse for about a tenth of the price. Find a used acog if you can. Zero at 33 meters and then each piece of each marking denotes another 100m distance. Iridium in the sights are good for low light and if you get NODS that mount on a picatinny, you can put them in front of the acog, use both at the same time, and still shoot acurately.
DJ_Critterus
12-22-2012, 8:37pm
Scopes can be an adventure/ nightmare, depending on what you want to do with your AR. You might even consider different scopes for the intended use; hunting, home defense ..... I'd take in a few gun shows and check out what’s available in your price range. A buddy of mine has a nightvision scope on his. Damn thing cost more than his AR.
Thats why i have set mine up with quick release adapters on the scopes. I can zero, remove them, swap them, and not have to zero them again.
Stangkiller
12-22-2012, 9:56pm
Hehe good topic, i picked up two 308's today, i need some kind of optics on them.
DJ_Critterus
12-22-2012, 10:03pm
Hehe good topic, i picked up two 308's today, i need some kind of optics on them.
[Eric Cartman...Battle of Topeka] I hate you. I hate you so very much. Words cannot describe how much I hate you. [/Eric Cartman]
Stangkiller
12-22-2012, 11:37pm
[Eric Cartman...Battle of Topeka] I hate you. I hate you so very much. Words cannot describe how much I hate you. [/Eric Cartman]
I told you, I'd sell you one for $2,500
DJ_Critterus
12-23-2012, 5:42pm
I told you, I'd sell you one for $2,500
And i told you to guess which finger I was showing you since I know how much you paid for the set :funny:
Stangkiller
12-23-2012, 6:20pm
And i told you to guess which finger I was showing you since I know how much you paid for the set :funny:
Supply and demand buddy!
DJ_Critterus
12-23-2012, 10:31pm
Supply and demand buddy!
Flip it man. Take the money and run.
Time for a topic revival.
I have now seen this phenomenon play out first hand. Just had a friend trying to shoot my 6920 with an XPS2-0 EOTech and couldn't use it for shit. Kept complaining that it was "blurry" and distorted. On the other hand, it looked perfect to me.
I have another factory Colt that I was deciding how to equip and just ordered an Aimpoint Pro for it. I have nothing but good things to say about my EOTech so I'm curious to see how they compare on otherwise identical rifles.
A few changes in my stable. My go to rifle now has an Eotech XPS 3.0 with 3x FTS on it. I do have a very mild case of astigmatism, but I work through it. I find that the XPS series are heads and shoulders above their earlier 55x line. I've run through several qual cycles with it, and I did just fine. I took the Aimpoint Micro and transitioned it my Benelli M4, as a slug optic. I love seeing all the different optics choices at the training evolutions.
http://i233.photobucket.com/albums/ee297/bobmwr/FIREARMS/483f3c8d.jpg
http://i233.photobucket.com/albums/ee297/bobmwr/FIREARMS/photo-2.jpg
RedLS1GTO
12-24-2012, 9:44am
A few changes in my stable. My go to rifle now has an Eotech XPS 3.0 with 3x FTS on it. I do have a very mild case of astigmatism, but I work through it. I find that the XPS series are heads and shoulders above their earlier 55x line. I've run through several qual cycles with it, and I did just fine. I took the Aimpoint Micro and transitioned it my Benelli M4, as a slug optic. I love seeing all the different optics choices at the training evolutions.
http://i233.photobucket.com/albums/ee297/bobmwr/FIREARMS/483f3c8d.jpg
Wouldn't mind having that at all. :cool:
I need to add 1 of those Benellis to the stable. Right now the go-to shotgun is the Mossberg.
http://i126.photobucket.com/albums/p90/botch1980/Guns/IMG_6046.jpg
On a side note, what case is that? I've been looking for something similar...
onedef92
12-24-2012, 10:01am
Wouldn't mind having that at all. :cool:
I need to add 1 of those Benellis to the stable. Right now the go-to shotgun is the Mossberg.
http://i126.photobucket.com/albums/p90/botch1980/Guns/IMG_6046.jpg
On a side note, what case is that? I've been looking for something similar...
I wouldn't mind having a tactical, home defense shotgun like that for home defense, myself. :seasix:
RedLS1GTO
12-24-2012, 12:38pm
I wouldn't mind having a tactical, home defense shotgun like that for home defense, myself. :seasix:
After the holidays give Auctions ASAP a call. They're here in Louisville and have some smoking deals on dealer display and other "not quite" new guns. Last I looked they had quite a few Mossbergs.
Auctions ASAP - Asset Sales & Auction Professionals - Services (http://www.auctionsasap.com/)
Chris Fowler
12-24-2012, 12:50pm
My fantasy football season wraps up tomorrow. I have a solid shot at winning the league and $450.
If that happens, an Eotech XPS2-0 is coming.
Won my fantasy league...will order an XPS2-0 after I get back from vacation. :cool:
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