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Posted: 7/4/2012 8:37:18 AM EDT
I've previously taken used firearms in trade which had cheap red dot sights, probably purchased at one of the ChinaMarts. The casings were fragile, the red "dot" was more like a fuzzy cloverleaf, and the overall appearance was cheesy. I was not impressed, and promptly removed and resold the optics.

I did try to mount a decent sight on my .44 Magnum Winchester 94AE. I paid about $250 for a Bushnell XLP, which promptly flew apart after only three shots fired. The little threaded insert which secures the battery cover screw tore out of the plastic housing. It's pretty poor design to have the batteries parallel to the axis of recoil, and secured by one small screw which is in tension instead of shear. As soon as I received a new unit under warranty, I put it on my table at the next gun show, and sold it.

I'd still like to find a rugged holographic or red dot sight with a crisp, sharp image. Cost and weight are not real considerations, but relatively compact size and high reliability are.

My intended usage is on 200-yard 'brush' guns - the Winchester 94AE, a Marlin 336CS, and an Arsenal SLR95. Your recommendations?

Link Posted: 7/4/2012 8:38:04 AM EDT
[#1]
Aimpoint and EOTech are the only 2 players I care for.  Keep in mind that Red Dots appear different between 2 people.  Most people never see a perfect dot because their eyes are messed up.  Also, remember to look THROUGH the dot, not AT the dot.
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 8:39:33 AM EDT
[#2]
Have you looked over here for inspiration?

http://www.ar15.com/forums/f_3/18_Optics__Mounts__and_Sights.html
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 8:39:49 AM EDT
[#3]
Quoted:
Aimpoint and EOTech are the only 2 players I care for.


Link Posted: 7/4/2012 8:41:30 AM EDT
[#4]
get a 2 moa t-1 micro

you're welcome
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 8:41:36 AM EDT
[#5]
Aimpoint T1 would seem to fit the bill.

Not bashing but a $250 optic is cheap. The quality ones seem to start close to $500.
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 8:43:24 AM EDT
[#6]
Burris FastFire II.
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 8:43:27 AM EDT
[#7]
Quoted:
Have you looked over here for inspiration?

http://www.ar15.com/forums/f_3/18_Optics__Mounts__and_Sights.html




Consume additional coffee, engage brain.

(Thanks, BTW)

Link Posted: 7/4/2012 8:45:00 AM EDT
[#8]
Quoted:
get a 2 moa t-1 micro

you're welcome


This is the correct answer.
Jim

Link Posted: 7/4/2012 8:53:52 AM EDT
[#9]




Quoted:

Burris FastFire II.


I have one of those on a Ruger 22/45 and it's great. I don't know how it would hold up on a gun that has some serious recoil though.



Eotech, Aimpoint, Trijicon, Doctor, Elcan, and Vortex each make qualtiy red dots.

Link Posted: 7/4/2012 8:54:06 AM EDT
[#10]





Quoted:





Quoted:


get a 2 moa t-1 micro





you're welcome






This is the correct answer.


Jim





If you are not using night vision, consider the H1 instead of the T1.  


For the arsenal, mounts may be an issue, some of the Russian stuff is pretty durable.  Too bad Tantal is no longer in business, he was THE GUY for Kopba, etc.  Look at the following for your AK Optic needs:  http://www.ar15.com/forums/f_4/56_Optics_andamp__Accessories.html
 
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 8:56:58 AM EDT
[#11]



Quoted:


get a 2 moa t-1 micro



you're welcome


or an EOTech 1 MOA XPS that doesn't use watch batteries.



 
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 9:08:35 AM EDT
[#12]
There is another post going on right now about Aimpoint Pros on sale for $360.00





http://www.ar15.com/forums/t_1_5/1339635_Aimpoint_PRO_for__360_shipped__bettery_hurry.html


 
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 9:11:20 AM EDT
[#13]
Quoted:
Quoted:
Aimpoint and EOTech are the only 2 players I care for.




Link Posted: 7/4/2012 9:15:06 AM EDT
[#14]
Tasco!


Link Posted: 7/4/2012 9:16:19 AM EDT
[#15]
Aimpoint, EOTech, or Trijicon.  Vortex makes a decent one, better than most, but still not as good as an Aimpoint.



If compactness and reliability are more important than price, get an Aimpoint Micro.  A Vortex Sparc will be significantly cheaper, but not will not have the 5+year long battery life, or be as completely reliable.
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 9:24:44 AM EDT
[#16]
Quoted:
Aimpoint and EOTech are the only 2 players I care for.  Keep in mind that Red Dots appear different between 2 people.  Most people never see a perfect dot because their eyes are messed up.  Also, remember to look THROUGH the dot, not AT the dot.


This.
Other cheaper alternatives are out there, but I for one can vouch for Aimpoint, based on the abuse mine took in combat and the ridiculous battery life.
I have never used an EOTech so i can't comment on anything other than their reputation.
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 9:25:28 AM EDT
[#17]
Quoted:
Aimpoint T1 would seem to fit the bill.

Not bashing but a $250 optic is cheap. The quality ones seem to start close to $500.


Aimpoint PRO, it's a M3 (or C3?) plus mount for $400.
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 9:31:40 AM EDT
[#18]
I have an EOTech and I like it, but I don't have experience with other brands.


Link Posted: 7/4/2012 9:52:46 AM EDT
[#19]



Quoted:



Quoted:

Aimpoint and EOTech are the only 2 players I care for.










 
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 9:54:51 AM EDT
[#20]
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 9:57:50 AM EDT
[#21]
Used EOTECH. If your not planing on using NVG they are plentiful.
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 9:58:47 AM EDT
[#22]
I have an EOTech 552 that's been used and abused for years and still runs like a champ.

Aimpoint battery life is nice but the sight picture kinda sucks IMO, except for the Micro.

Just got a Vortex SPARC for a dedicated .22lr upper and I have to say for the money it's a nice optic.



Even though it's not a close range or even a red dot sight, if you want pure sex get an ACOG
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 10:01:33 AM EDT
[#23]
Quoted:
get a 2 moa t-1 micro

you're welcome


This is not only the correct answer but they only answer.
Go to LaRue and get the sight and mount together and be done with it.
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 10:04:47 AM EDT
[#24]
Quoted:

Quoted:
get a 2 moa t-1 micro

you're welcome

or an EOTech 1 MOA XPS that doesn't use watch batteries.
 


What's the battery life on the EOtech?

Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 10:13:31 AM EDT
[#25]
Quoted:

Quoted:
Burris FastFire II.

I have one of those on a Ruger 22/45 and it's great. I don't know how it would hold up on a gun that has some serious recoil though.

Eotech, Aimpoint, Trijicon, Doctor, Elcan, and Vortex each make qualtiy red dots.



I keep one on my AR.  It does a good job and has held up just fine, but this is just a range gun.    

This sight is not at all in the same class as Aimpoints or Trijicons when it comes to ruggedness.  Treating it roughly would result in 200 bucks lost and you wishing you had bought an aimpoint.
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 10:35:50 AM EDT
[#26]
Quoted:

Quoted:
get a 2 moa t-1 micro

you're welcome

or an EOTech 1 MOA XPS that doesn't use watch batteries.
 


Those watch batteries will last 5 years of consecutive run time.  How long will that bigger, heavier EOTech run on the bigger batteries?  I believe the answer is 25 days...

The T-1s are tough as nails too.  I've seen them beat to hell and they had no issues.
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 10:44:32 AM EDT
[#27]
Aimpoint, Eotech, or Trijicon.  I work in the industry and deal with complaints and defects daily.
I really, really wanted to like and suggest Vortex. I just can't, reliability is too spotty.
You'll be happy with any of the three I've mentioned.
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 10:56:25 AM EDT
[#28]
My nc star had worked great on my Barrett M82.






8nd the Aimpoint motion



Link Posted: 7/4/2012 10:58:28 AM EDT
[#29]
I'll throw out a vote for Vortex Sparc. Good sight for the money especially if it's just going on a range toy and not something that's gonna get beat up.
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 11:13:17 AM EDT
[#30]
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 11:18:16 AM EDT
[#31]
The T-1 and H-1 isn't the only option. I myself like the taste of M4s Kool-Aid myself. It is hard to beat over 8 years of battery life with a AA left on.

Oh, and it'll take a licking and keep on ticking


camaro
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 11:20:09 AM EDT
[#32]
If money is no object get an Aimpoint T-1.  If you are on a budget then get a Bushnell TRS-25 (the Chinese Copy) for only $80 on amazon.com and it will do the job.
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 11:25:50 AM EDT
[#33]



Quoted:



Quoted:




Quoted:

get a 2 moa t-1 micro



you're welcome


or an EOTech 1 MOA XPS that doesn't use watch batteries.

 




Those watch batteries will last 5 years of consecutive run time.  How long will that bigger, heavier EOTech run on the bigger batteries?  I believe the answer is 25 days...



The T-1s are tough as nails too.  I've seen them beat to hell and they had no issues.






I don't know what the battery life is on my XPS, the automatic shut-off keeps turning the sight off.



That, and I have a huge 65 MOA circle that helps me center on targets at close distances.



Also, I have a common battery that is readily available for free in my supply chain and is used in other devices that I carry at work.





It's not a pissing contest.  It's just reasons why I like it better.



Have a beer and relax or continue tilting at windmills, your choice.

Link Posted: 7/4/2012 11:26:36 AM EDT
[#34]
Life member?  
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 11:32:36 AM EDT
[#35]
Quoted:

Quoted:
Quoted:

Quoted:
get a 2 moa t-1 micro

you're welcome

or an EOTech 1 MOA XPS that doesn't use watch batteries.
 


Those watch batteries will last 5 years of consecutive run time.  How long will that bigger, heavier EOTech run on the bigger batteries?  I believe the answer is 25 days...

The T-1s are tough as nails too.  I've seen them beat to hell and they had no issues.



I don't know what the battery life is on my XPS, the automatic shut-off keeps turning the sight off.

That, and I have a huge 65 MOA circle that helps me center on targets at close distances.

Also, I have a common battery that is readily available for free in my supply chain and is used in other devices that I carry at work.


It's not a pissing contest.  It's just reasons why I like it better.

Have a beer and relax or continue tilting at windmills, your choice.


Eotech XPS will last 600 hours according to their specs.  

Also, you can find the CR2032 batteries for the Aimpoint at any drug store, so I wouldn't call that uncommon, just sayin.  

If we want to get into battery costs over the length of a 50,000 hour cycle we can do that too.
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 1:56:08 PM EDT
[#36]
Quoted:

Quoted:
Quoted:

Quoted:
get a 2 moa t-1 micro

you're welcome

or an EOTech 1 MOA XPS that doesn't use watch batteries.
 


Those watch batteries will last 5 years of consecutive run time.  How long will that bigger, heavier EOTech run on the bigger batteries?  I believe the answer is 25 days...

The T-1s are tough as nails too.  I've seen them beat to hell and they had no issues.



I don't know what the battery life is on my XPS, the automatic shut-off keeps turning the sight off.

That, and I have a huge 65 MOA circle that helps me center on targets at close distances.

Also, I have a common battery that is readily available for free in my supply chain and is used in other devices that I carry at work.


It's not a pissing contest.  It's just reasons why I like it better.

Have a beer and relax or continue tilting at windmills, your choice.


Actually, I am having a beer and relaxing on my half day of work.  I didn't mean that to be an attack, I was just stating what makes me choose the Aimpoint.

50,000 hours v 600 hours is significant.  Also, I like to leave my red dot on when I am out and about at my property, so I avoided that auto shut off of the EOTech.  I do like the 65 MOA ring when using night vision.

Personal preference, though.  OP, try out both and see what works best for you.
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 2:08:34 PM EDT
[#37]
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 3:49:52 PM EDT
[#38]
Take a look at a leupold CQ/T. It's a little bulkier but it has variable magnification, is built like a tank,  has superior optical clarity, and their quality is beyond question.

Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 3:52:12 PM EDT
[#39]
Quoted:

Quoted:
get a 2 moa t-1 micro

you're welcome

or an EOTech 1 MOA XPS that doesn't use watch batteries.
 


You're adorable.
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 3:59:00 PM EDT
[#40]
The only proper answer is S&B ShortDot 1-4x
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 10:21:35 PM EDT
[#41]



Quoted:



Quoted:




Quoted:

get a 2 moa t-1 micro



you're welcome


or an EOTech 1 MOA XPS that doesn't use watch batteries.

 




You're adorable.


I look better with my hair done and some makeup.





 
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 10:31:47 PM EDT
[#42]
I have had really good luck with aim point. I think it is hard to beat them with the battery life, I never turn mine off.
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 11:45:02 PM EDT
[#43]


Dude, you do realize you should put the Ky and accumulation bucket away before taking pictures.
Link Posted: 7/4/2012 11:51:03 PM EDT
[#44]
Quoted:


Dude, you do realize you should put the Ky and accumulation bucket away before taking pictures.


I miss that guy. I hated him, but I miss him.

Tacpoint juggalo.

Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile
Link Posted: 7/5/2012 12:20:03 AM EDT
[#45]
Docter



Lots of guys put them on double rifles and they seem to hold up fine to the recoil of a 470NE and up.












Link Posted: 7/5/2012 5:17:58 AM EDT
[#46]
Ultra Dot sights are high quality Japanese optics. They are inexpensive and have fine adjustments. Not the tacticool choice though.
Link Posted: 7/5/2012 5:31:03 AM EDT
[#47]
Quoted:
Ultra Dot sights are high quality Japanese optics. They are inexpensive and have fine adjustments. Not the tacticool choice though.


This is the answer for a great value.  These ride on basically every bullseye gun in America.  The sights are rugged and guaranteed for life.  

I got a bunch of them.  I have never had to send one back.
Link Posted: 7/5/2012 5:36:08 AM EDT
[#48]
Meprolight M21.  I don't like the 5.5MOA dot on mine for longer range but it's fine for 100 yards or less.  Very durable, no batteries.

Link Posted: 7/5/2012 5:37:17 AM EDT
[#49]
Quoted:
Quoted:
Aimpoint and EOTech are the only 2 players I care for.




This
Link Posted: 7/5/2012 5:47:24 AM EDT
[#50]
Quoted:
Quoted:
Ultra Dot sights are high quality Japanese optics. They are inexpensive and have fine adjustments. Not the tacticool choice though.


This is the answer for a great value.  These ride on basically every bullseye gun in America.  The sights are rugged and guaranteed for life.  

I got a bunch of them.  I have never had to send one back.


Their Ultradot 6 will be my next optic purchase for my spare KISS AR . I've heard nothing but good about their stuff.
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