Most Versatile Optic for the AR-15

July 12, 2019 Off By Real Estate Club of America

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With the booming popularity of this AR-15 in the previous 15, or so, years, we also have seen a surge of innovation in the optics market. Starting with the Aimpoint M68 CCO red dot, we found that an optic could quickly be a combat multiplier in providing the shooter not just fast acquisition of a goal but also the ability to place well aimed shoots up to 300 yards away. As technology advanced, more optics became desirable because of their ability to provide more features. Optics like the EOTech 512, and later the XPS-2, the Trijicon ACOG fixed 4 power optic, Main Arms 1-6x24mm variable scope with the ACSS reticle are just a couple of the advancements in sight technology.
There’s absolutely not any doubt that a red dot is an superb choice in an optic for your AR-15. The Trijicon MRO or Aimpoint Micro T-2 are excellent options. They have the capability to find and engage a target quickly. In low light situations, some red dots can be coupled with night vision goggles to raise your lethality. High end red dots have battery life that can sustain operation for 50,000 hours of continuing use. However, they do have limitations. Shooting targets at distance can be challenging without the use of an added magnifier. This will add more items to your rifle which translates to a heavier rifle. Moreover, if you have astigmatism, red dots can be difficult to use because the dot may be tough to see. Depending on the intensity of your astigmatism, a red dot may appear as a star burst or several dots in a line. This could eliminate this sight for a good deal of people.

Why LPVO are the Most Versatile?

Red dots, holographic sights, and fixed power optics are fine choicesnevertheless, the low power variable optics (LPVOs) have the most flexibility built into them. A fantastic example is the Primary Arms 1-6x24mm FFP ACSS scope. This really is a first focal plane sight which can be set on a magnification from 1 power up to 6 power for long range shots. The ACSS reticle is the pinnacle of innovation with optic technology by providing a reticle which enables the shooter the ability to be exact in planning but also provide ranging capabilities in addition to bullet drop compensation. It allows the shooter to shoot moving targets by using the built-in lead points. A first focal place LPVO mimics a red dot at 1 electricity since the ACSS reticle will decrease in size to seem to be a dot. In most higher end offerings, the reticle will be etched into the glass which will ensure durability when the optic gets knocked around.
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Fixed power optics, such as the Trijicon ACOG, are another wonderful option for AR-15s. In the past 5 to 10 years, we’ve seen more military units start to use fixed power optics to allow extra lethality to the Soldiers or Marines. These sights allow a shooter to see a goal that allows for more precise round placement. Newer versions of the ACOG have fiberoptic illuminated reticle that assists in locating the reticle. Yet, with the increased magnification does hinder a predetermined power optic from being the most suitable choice for CQB. If you’re in an urban environment and has to maneuver in and/or around houses, apartments, or other types of buildings the ACOG may be too much optic for what you require.

Most Versatile Optic for the AR-15
He has served in 3 overseas tours that include Korea in 2002, Iraq in 2003 as a tank gunner and Afghanistan in 2010-11 as a logistics officer. He completed numerous schools in the Army to include Air Assault and Airborne. Currently, Mark is an Army spouse and enjoys running a YouTube station
About Mark Grimsley

Why a Red Dot May Not Be the Best?

The political climate has risen to a boiling point in the United States. It would seem that the possibility, while unlikely, of another civil war could erupt at any given moment. With that in mind, it is always better to be ready for any kind of civil unrest to defend yourself, your loved ones and your residence. However, when equipping your AR-15 with an optic which you would serve you best if you’re in a”bug in” situation that could last one or more weeks? What optic would best suit you at a close quarter combat (CQB) and an open environment situation? That is what we are going to explore.

As stated, red dots are a superb option; however, a holographic sight like the EOTech 512 or XPS-2 may be superior to the red dot. For the ones that are plagued with astigmatism, a holographic sight will not look distorted due to the use of a laser to create the reticle. A sight like an EOTech can sustain damage to the lens, or lose it entirely, and still project a reticle which makes it far stronger. Any damage to a red dot’s front lens could spell disaster for the shooter due to the design and technology needed to get a red dot to work. However, a holographic sight does have one disadvantage to the red dot and that’s battery life. A laser requires a lot more energy to operate than a LED light and battery life is usually relegated to approximately 1,000 hours of continuous operation. That could also be an issue for someone that doesn’t have access to replacement batteries.
All modern optics are likely to suit most people well on their AR-15. Yet, having the capability to utilize an optic like a red dot or increase the magnification to 6 power quickly makes the LPVO the best option. Every sight will have pros and cons; however, the LPVO pros outweigh the disadvantages. For a reality where you could be forced to protect your loved ones and property for prolong periods of time, the capability to have an illuminated sight, if desired, and also the flexibility to choose the magnification needed for the scenario that’s front of you makes it the optimal alternative for a”bug out or in” situation. Since the reticle isn’t dependent on being illuminated, batteries might not be a significant concern when put in a situation where they are not readily available. Regardless what optic your taste is, you may only be as deadly as your coaching allows. Pick a sight and train to safeguard your proficiency gives you the best opportunity to make it from any situation.

What Kinds of Optics Should I Consider?