Table of Contents

• EOTech Holographic Sights for Rifles
• Trijicon ACOG Sights for Rifles
• Best Optical Accessories for Your Rifle
• Conclusion

When it comes to scopes and optical accessories, people are pretty loyal. They find an optic which they are comfortable with, and they stick with it. Two of the most popular optics are Trijicon’s Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight (ACOG) series, and Electro-Optics Technology’s (EOTech) holographic weapon sights (HWS).

As ACOG vs EOTech rifle sights go, the differences between these two systems are many and varied. Some people don’t give them the time of day, preferring more traditional scopes or even back-up iron sights. Those are all well and good, but if you are interested in getting the best for your rifle, Trijicon’s ACOG and EOTech’s HWS are the way to go.

EOTech Holographic Sights for Rifles

These days, there are tons of tools and optical accessories available. As with every single firearm accessory ever made, it is the shooter’s wants, needs, and financial abilities that will have the last say. You need to know what distance you will be shooting at, approximately. Will it be daytime or nighttime? Is the weapon designed for home defense or open combat? An accessory – especially an optic – may be great, but if you don’t need it, then you simply won’t use it. If you don’t use it, it becomes a liability and a hassle. Nobody wants that.

EOTech holographic sights have quality glass and a small red dot. They are ideal for quick, semi-long range shooting – even though there they have no magnification capabilities. The MOA is minimal, which means that you have better chances of being on target, even from a distance.

The EOTech design enables fast target acquisition. You can shoot it with both eyes open, thereby maximizing your field of vision (straight and peripheral) without compromising your surroundings. You can also shoot it with the classic one eye shut technique, and get very good results. By the way, there are ways of achieving magnification with an EOTech, but since that involves purchasing another accessory, we will be leaving that option out.

EOTech sights are battery-powered, which is something of a drawback, in my opinion. But, to be fair, this battery thing is true to many scopes, and is not at all specific to EOTech’s devices. Battery life is about 500 hours, which is good but not amazing. If you put an extra battery in your stock or grip, you should have no problem. Still, you don’t want to end up in a situation where your optics fail due to a dead battery. If you are shooting a target of up to 100 – 120 yards, EOTech are definitely worth looking into.

Holographic sights are normally less expensive than telescopic sights, but that does not make them any less of a threat. People do not necessarily need magnification, and for them there is a good chance that the EOTech will provide all of the security they will ever need.

Trijicon ACOG Sights for Rifles

Trijicon ACOG sights are a whole other story. While holographic sights fall under the “red dot sight” umbrella, ACOGs are in a class of their own. ACOGs are telescopic sights, with varying degrees of fixed magnification. They have been standard issue for U.S. Army personnel ever since the late 80’s, and in the 90’s they also became standard issue for the Marines. That should give you an idea of just how accurate, precise, and shooter-friendly these scopes are.

ACOGs have different systems of illumination. Some utilize tritium, and others use a fiber optic. Some systems use both, and are magnificent to shoot with during day or night. The thing about ACOGs is the price – it is high. Totally worth it, make no mistake, but nevertheless high. If you can afford one, and are interested in getting one, go for it. You will not be disappointed. ACOGs are a work of modern optical art.

Even though tritium does have something of a limited lifespan (12-15 years, give or take), the ACOG scopes serve as a wonderful optic even after the tritium has faded. Trijicon’s devices are fit for hardcore combat situations, and they have been seeing combat for many years, in many places around the world.

These scopes have proven themselves worthy of all the praise which they receive. ACOGs are used by many security organizations and armed forces, and are well-respected. You don’t reach recognition of that magnitude without doing something right. This would not be the case with an inferior product, and sure enough – companies which produce low-quality ACOG-like products are not on the same level. Trijicon stand behind their scopes with pride.

This series of scopes is constantly illuminated, thereby eliminating the need for batteries or other external sources of power. Once the juice does run out on your ACOG, it remains a great optic on its own merit, with phenomenal sight quality, durable materials, and superb craftsmanship.

ACOGs are made for longer ranges than the EOTech, so it really does depend on the shooter and the intended targets. If the rifle in question is designed for home defense or other kinds of close quarter combat (CQC), the EOTech might be the better option. Although, for the sake of fairness, you could make use of the Bindon Aiming Concept (BAC) with the Trijicon, and make every shot count, regardless of the proximity of the target.

The BAC technique was developed by Trijicon’s founder Glyn Bindon, and at its core, it acts as a way to successfully acquire a target, while keeping the shooter’s field of vision open and unobstructed. Closing one eye puts the shooter at an optical disadvantage, and using the BAC is a way to ensure that you are not missing out on what is going on around you.

Best Optical Accessories for Your Rifle

Both EOTech and Trijicon manufacture their accessories right here in the U.S., and that is no small thing in today’s world. EOTech provides a two-year limited warranty on its sights, and Trijicon provides a limited lifetime warranty on their scopes. To be clear, with Trijicon, the lifetime warranty is on materials and craftsmanship, and the systems of illumination are guaranteed for 10 – 15 years (depending on the method used).

The bottom line:

ACOGs are more battle oriented. They are a combat magnifier, and they do their job wonderfully. Police, SWAT, Army, Marines, and even everyday civilians – many of them swear by the ACOG and its effectiveness. At longer ranges, there is no beating its quality and reliability. Main downside – price.

EOTech sights are made for more ‘in your face’ kind of situations. Part of what makes EOTech sights so popular, is the ease and rapidness with which a shooter can locate the target. Just lift your rifle and WHOOMP, there it is. Holographic weapon sights allow the shooter to achieve a proper balance between speed and accuracy. Some EOTech models even sport night vision compatibility. Main downside – battery-operated.

Both the ACOG and the EOTech come in a variety of models, and it is always recommended you do your research before putting your money on the counter. If you get the chance to try these both out, I urge you to do so. It would be the best way to see which one is the sight for you. With accessories, it is always a matter of personal preference and opinion. Features and attributes which fit your wants and needs, may not fit another’s.

Conclusion

Both of these companies have made it their mission to provide shooters with the best, clearest, and most accurate shooting experience. Whether you are at the range or on the battle field, it doesn’t get any better than this. When you mount either one of these optics on your rifle, you will know exactly where your money went.

Of course, there is a simple way to resolve this whole “versus” thing. If you have more than one rifle – and the disposable income to make it happen – there is no debate. You could fit one rifle with an EOTech, and another with an ACOG.

The post ACOG vs EOTech Rifle Sights appeared first on Gunivore.

EOTech has been around for many years. Ever since the mid-90s, they have been supplying civilians, agents, and combat soldiers with the means to defend themselves and take control of any situation. The company’s holographic sights are famous, as they have seen many battles, confrontations, and military operations. The Navy SEAL who took out Osama bin Laden reportedly had an EOTech holographic sight mounted on his weapon.

Now, EOTech has decided to branch out into the magnifying optics market. The company stated that in the coming summer (August, 2016), a brand new line of precision rifle scopes named ‘Vudu’ will become available to the general public.

Introducing the New EOTech Scope

A high-quality magnifying scope on your rifle can make a real difference. It provides a great deal of situational awareness and confidence is your shot. When it comes to combat, it means that you see the enemy before he sees you. You need to make every shot count, and the EOTech Vudu scopes for rifles will be there to make sure your bullet hits the mark.

Initially, the Vudu line will include these 3 models:

• 1-6×24
• 2.5-10×44
• 3.5-18×50

As of now, it seems that these battery-powered scopes will be designated for use by all: civilians, officers, agents, and soldiers. The scopes are broken up into short, mid, and long-range application. The higher the magnification, the longer the suitable range.

Some technical specifications:

Model 1-6×24

• Magnification – 1-6x
• Objective lens – 24mm
• Length – 10.6 inches
• Illumination – battery-powered
• Housing – aircraft-grade aluminum
• Weight – 19.75 oz.
• Eye relief – 1x: 80-100mm – 6x: 82-102mm
• Battery – CR2032
• Battery life – approximately 10,000 hours at optimal conditions (minimum brightness, room temperature)
• Tube diameter – 30mm

Model 2.5-10×44

• Magnification – 2.5-10x
• Objective lens – 44mm
• Length – 14 inches
• Illumination – battery-powered
• Housing – aircraft-grade aluminum
• Weight – 26.8 oz.
• Eye relief – 2.5x: 87-97mm – 10x: 86-100mm
• Battery – CR2032
• Battery life – approximately 10,000 hours at optimal conditions (minimum brightness, room temperature)
• Tube diameter – 30mm

Model 3.5×18

• Magnification – 3.5-18x
• Objective lens – 50mm
• Length – 14.8 inches
• Illumination – battery-powered
• Housing – aircraft-grade aluminum
• Weight – 33.23 oz.
• Eye relief – 3.5x: 86-100mm – 18x: 87-100mm
• Battery – CR2032
• Battery life – approximately 10,000 hours at optimal conditions (minimum brightness, room temperature)
• Tube diameter – 34mm

Note that the largest of the 3 scopes comes with a 34mm tube, as opposed to the standard 25mm or 30mm tubes in which many scopes are set. This means that the light collection – and transmission – will be superb, and this will allow the device to produce an image that is true and accurate.

All Vudu Scope models will feature a first focal plane design, which means that a shooter will be able to gauge distances at any magnification level, and fast. The reticle will be brightly lit whether it is day or night, and because of the focal design, it will not get smaller as the magnification grows.

A word on battery life: yes, you did read that correctly. EOTech anticipates a battery life of around 10,000 hours, though the exact specifications will be more finalized once this product reaches the shelves.

Vudu Rifle Scope Pricing

EOTech knows how to manufacture quality items. The company has been proving this since its inception. The lenses used in the production of these scopes are of coated, extremely clear, High Density (HD) glass. Whether it is CQB, mid-range engagements, or long-distance shooting – the Vudu will be able to deliver.

The prices (taken from the EOTech website) are as follows:

• 1-6x – $1,299
• 2.5-10x – $1,549
• 3.5-18x – $1629

Obviously, these are preliminary numbers, and they do not necessarily reflect the final prices. Until these beauties hit the market, everything is up in the air. One thing is for sure – for better or worse, you get what you pay for. Put very simply: quality items such as these will not come cheap. However, once you have made the decision to purchase a quality riflescope, you should not let the price deter you.

Buying an inferior (and cheaper) scope is tempting, but it can come back to bite you on the ass. You may start missing your target, losing your zero again and again, and this could lead to feelings of incompetence and frustration with yourself and your weapon.

EOTech knows that people are serious about their weapons accessories, especially when dealing with optics and electronics. Shooters want to know that they are getting the very best when they put their hard-earned money down on the counter. For over 20 years, EOTech has been working very hard to ensure customer satisfaction.

These Vudu scopes are poised to be some of the finest riflescopes the world has ever seen – hard, rugged, and reliable. EOTech has stated that these scopes will be warranted by a lifetime guarantee. This demonstrates just how confident EOTech is in their product. And now, all that is left is to see is whether these scopes can live up to the accumulating hype.

Based on their previous track record, I think it is safe to say that the odds are in EOTech’s favor. Something tells me that the EOTech Vudu Riflescope series will not disappoint.

The frangible ammo vs regular bullets debate is a hot topic in the world of firearms today – which camp do you fall under?

The post EOTech Vudu Scopes for Rifles Review 2018 appeared first on Gunivore.

Everyone and their cousin has an opinion on what the ultimate gun accessory is. But as with all other matters, actions speak louder than words. Looking to purchase new sights for your rifle? Well, look no further than the Navy SEAL who shot and killed Osama Bin Laden, using none other than EOTech holographic sights on his SBR.

Holographic Sight for Rifles

My first experience with a gun was many years ago (more years than I care to admit) when my father took me to the range for the very first time. I’d been looking forward to this day for quite a long time, and with dad serving overseas, it felt like ages from the time of his promise to take me shooting until the day when we finally got the chance to go.

We loaded up the car with all the essentials: Ruger and AR-15 rifles, ammo, ear protection (always a must!), and peanut butter-and-jelly sandwiches. I was excited to have him all to myself for the day, and to not have to compete with my brothers and sister for his attention. We arrived at the range, and he ran through his safety overview for the third or three-hundredth time. Then, he pulled out the AR-15.

Ever the perfectionist, it was maddening that I just could not hit the targets as accurately as everyone else around me. Despite my father’s encouragement and reassurement that I would get better with practice, I still left feeling blue.

Well, it turns out that dad’s preference for point shooting (shooting with both eyes open, without looking into the gun’s sights) may have been partially to blame for my difficulty that day at the range. In the military, there is often no time to line up one’s sights, and so people are often taught to simply aim, and shoot. Well, that style worked for dad but not for me, and I am now a firm believer in sighted shooting.

As much time and effort goes into purchasing your rifle itself, should also be placed into researching the proper sights for your gun. The way I see it is, you’re already investing so much on your firearm – don’t you want to use it at its maximum capacity?

Types of Rifle Sights

There are a few overarching categories which most sights fit into: iron sights, telescopic sights, and red dot sights. Red dot sights are a broad term which encompass reflex/ reflector sights, laser sights, and my personal favorite: holographic sights.

If you’re a science fiction nerd like I am, the thought of anything holographic already has you excited. Whereas the other varieties of red dot sights have been in use for years – reflector sights were popular back during the Second World War – holographic sights are significantly more cutting-edge, having first been developed by Electro-Optics Technology (EOTech) in 1998. The science behind holographic sights is such that a laser is used to project a seemingly 3D image into your field of view, without distorting the path of normal light in any way.

Something which I love about these particular sights is that they are meant for two-eyes-open shooting. I have a slight astigmatism in my right eye, and as such, regular red dot sights can appear blurry to me. With EOTech holographic weapon sights (HWS), there is no such issue – I can easily and instantly gain target acquisition, without having to look around the way I would with a more traditional scope. This non-magnifying gun sight makes shooting easy and pleasant, exactly as a day spent at the range with family or friends should be. And thanks to adjustable brightness settings, I can use these sights to shoot during the day or night.

Speed, accuracy, precision… all of these are crucial to gun marksmanship. With a holographic weapon sight, you can strike the proper balance. EOTech sights have a 68 MOA (minute of angle) ring with a 1 MOA dot, and the tubeless display window allows the shooter an unlimited field of view. Furthermore, this 1 MOA dot stays the same size when viewed with magnification while the target appears 3 times bigger – allowing the shooter the best and clearest view of the target.

EOTech Models

EOTech sells quite a number of models of different holographic sights, for shooters of varying needs and price ranges.

• 512 – this is the most popular and widely-used EOTech holographic sight. It has no night vision capabilities, but is nonetheless versatile.
• 512 Laser Battery Cap – an improved 512, with an integrated laser for quicker target acquisition. Durable and ideal for either home defense or combat training.
• 512 XBOW – another variation of the popular 512, designated specifically for use with a crossbow. It offers a pre-calculated ranging scale, which is projected on the target. The reticle pattern was designed with the hunting crowd in mind. Runs on 2 AA batteries.
• XPS2 – the shortest, smallest, and lightest EOTech model holographic weapon sight available, without night vision. Runs on a single 123 battery.
• EXPS2 – this sight has increased height, and it provides iron sight co-witness. The EXPS2 allows the shooter to acquire a target with both eyes open.
• 552 – this sight is night vision-compatible, and is used by military forces and government agencies. For hunters who don’t feel like packing it up when the sun sets.
• XPS3 – Like the XPS2, it is exceptionally small and lightweight. Runs on a single 123 battery, and leaves room for other devices such as magnifiers and backup iron sights.
• EXPS3 – chosen by the U.S. Special Operations Command as the go-to optic for close-quarter combat (CQB), this device is night vision compatible, and it is elevated for iron sight attachment.
• 518 – this sight runs on 2 ordinary AA batteries, but offers the shooter an experience which is similar to that of the EXPS line. The 518 is also compatible with the EOTech Laser Battery Caps.

  

• 558 – this sight is fully compatible with Gen I-III+ night vision devices. It offers quick detachment, increased aiming capabilities, and is ideal for use with EOTech’s switch-to-side magnifiers. Powered by 2 AA batteries.
• 300 Blackout – this sight offers a 2-dot reticle, which allows the shooter to zero different rounds in the same pattern. This sight goes with the XPS2 platform, and is extremely short and light. It is powered by a single 123 lithium battery.

• Hybrid Sight I: EXPS3-4 with G33.STS Magnifier – night-vision compatible, and designed for close to mid-range shooting – this device brings with it the best of both worlds. The Hybrid I offers rapid transitions from CQB situations to mid-range targeting.
• Hybrid Sight II: EXPS2-2 with G33.STS Magnifier – this device offers a combination of short to long range capabilities, which is ideal for those whose targets are on the move. The switch-to-side mount offers instant disengagement of the magnifier.
• Hybrid Sight III: 518.2 with G33.STS Magnifier – Powered by 2 AA batteries (lithium or alkaline), this sight is one of the most adaptable hybrids, lending itself to a variety of scenarios. It offers a wide field of view, quick transitioning from short to long range, and reliability in many lighting condition due to a higher grade of light transmission.
• 552 Laser Battery Cap 2 – the ever-popular, battle-tested, extremely durable 552 just got better. The 552 LBC2 offers visible and infrared lasers, making it a smart choice for CQB situations. Long battery life and an integrated accessory port make this a device that will provide results when they matter.

  

• XPS2-RF – this is a sight geared towards the non-tactical crowd, airsoft gamers, and those with aging eyesight. It offers a wide window and an illuminated holographic reticle. Hunters can use this model for small game and for plinking. Note: this sight only mounts to an 11mm Dovetail.
• G33 Magnifier – this magnifier offers tool-less azimuth adjustment, large field of view, and adjustable diopter dial for greater focus. It is compatible with all EOTech holographic weapon sights.
• Mini Red Dot Sight (MRDS) – designed for CQB, this device offers high visibility in any and all lighting conditions. It has 4 brightness levels, for dot-intensity adjustment. Changing batteries is done without removing the sight and compromising your zero. Available as a standalone product or as a deluxe kit that includes a mount (1913) and protective cloth.
• Laser Battery Cap: Visible Laser – this is a drop-in replacement for the 512/552/518/558 EOTech holographic weapon sights. Ideal for home defense or combat training. The cap has an integrated accessory port, for use with a remote pressure switch, which may be purchased separately.
• Laser Battery Cap 2 – another drop-in replacement for the 512/552/518/558 EOTech holographic weapon sights. Incorporates visible laser and invisible infrared technology. Also comes with an accessory port, for use with a remote pressure switch, which may be purchased separately.

Regardless of whichever model you select, the clear glass quality and small dot make EOTech ideal for long-range shooting. The EOTech also doesn’t feel too massive on the gun itself, unlike some other sights I have tried in the past.

The only downside I’ve really experienced when dealing with holographic sights is a shorter battery life than, say, red dot sights that use a standard LED. This means that holographic sights can require the batteries to be changed significantly more frequently. The other downside is the price, but the fact of the matter is that you get what you pay for – and if you are seeking top-quality, well, then it’s only natural that you would have to pay accordingly. Although, EOTech is still usually a better bargain than competitors such as Swedish company Aimpoint.

EOTech is based in the United States, and is a division of the L-3 Communications Corporation, one of the top defense contractors in the world.

The post EOTech Holographic Sights Review 2018 appeared first on Gunivore.

Table of Contents

• Specs of Trijicon MRO-C
• Pros and Cons: My Trijicon MRO Review

In 2015, the world famous Trijicon, Inc. decided to release another installment in its series of reflex sights – the Miniature Rifle Optic, or MRO. Reflex (also known as reflector) sights are non-magnifying optical accessories for rifles, carbines, and shotguns.

Reflex sights consist of an aiming point (a reticle of some kind) which is placed between reflecting pieces of glass. These sights have been around since the early 20th century, though they have undergone many significant changes throughout the years, as the technology advanced. Essentially, they allow the shooter to focus on the target, without the need to align one sight with the other, as is the case with iron sights.

Trijicon’s MRO is a sealed miniature 1×25 reflex sight, intended for rapid target acquisition. The optic’s large aperture maximizes the viewing area, and instead of seeing a small piece of the puzzle, you get a nice full, clear, bright view. All that is left is to take the shot.

Specs of Trijicon MRO-C

Let’s take a look at some of the MRO’s specs. There are several different versions of this series– 4 altogether – and there are different Trijicon MRO mount options (or lack thereof). We will be inspecting the MRO-C-2200003, which is a standalone sight without a mount.

• Magnification – 1x
• Objective lens – 25mm
• Length – 2.6 inches
• Illumination – battery-powered Light Emitting Diode (LED)
• Housing – 7075-T6 forged aluminum
• Weight – 4.1 oz. (with battery, but without mount)
• Reticle pattern – dot
• Reticle color – red
• Eye relief – infinite
• Batteries – single CR2032 lithium battery (included)
• Battery life – 5 years of continuous use at setting 5 out of 8 (Note: high and low temperature may potentially affect the battery’s lifespan.)

According to Trijicon’s website, this sight is especially designed for use from non-standard shooting positions. Unlike certain scopes, the eye relief on the MRO is infinite, which opens up a world of possibilities when it comes to shooting positions. There is also no parallax to compensate for, and nothing else to throw you off. The reflex sight allows you to concentrate on the target at hand.

The brightness settings are definitely something which caught our attention, and are worth mentioning. There is a total of 8 settings of brightness on the MRO: 2 night vision settings, 5 day settings, and 1 super-bright setting, for intensively sunny days.

On the MRO, there is an ambidextrous brightness dial, which allows the shooter to transition quickly between the various settings. The adjusters on the MRO are surface-flush, which basically means there will be no snag or drag when you are moving through brush or similar terrain, and no sudden loss of zero due to inadvertent dial movement.

The lenses on the MRO are highly advanced, and are multi-coated for maximum light-gathering capabilities, providing zero distortion and a clear red dot. The optic itself is fully sealed, waterproof to 100 feet, and forged in hard anodized aluminum. What more could you possibly ask from a reflex sight?

Pros and Cons: My Trijicon MRO Review

The price of the Trijicon MRO varies by model. The MRO-C-2200003 does not include any kind of mount, so it is cheaper than the others. The price for the MRO (all models) is $579 – $639. These numbers are from the Trijicon website, but on other optics websites (or sites such as Amazon) you can find them for as low as $453 (for the mount-less C-2200003 model).

The MRO is designed to be used with both of the shooter’s eyes open, which maximizes the field of view without compromising safety and situational awareness.

The MRO-C-2200003 comes in a package which includes:

• 1 Trijicon Logo Sticker
• 1 Lens Cloth
• 1 MRO User Manual
• 1 Warranty Card
• 1 Trijicon MRO Mount Guide

The warranty on the Trijicon MRO is like that of any other high-quality Trijicon optical accessory – a limited lifetime warranty on defects in materials and craftsmanship, and a 5-year guarantee on the electronics. The warranty will cover electronics for 5 years from date of original manufacture.

Trijicon is a well-known and trusted name thanks to its famous ACOG system, as well as the fellow fixed and variable optic (VCOG) system.

This mini-sight certainly has a lot going for it. There are many pros on its list. One definite con, though, is that while the MRO come with a lens cloth – which is a nice touch, I’ll admit – it does not come with any kind of cap or flip-up cover. It would have made the deal so much sweeter, if some kind of cover would have been provided, along with the cloth.

This sight can be used in conjunction with magnifiers, just like others types of reflex sights. The other three versions of the Trijicon MRO come with mounts which differ by height. When selecting a magnifier, be sure that it is compatible, and then configure it so the magnifier and the MRO are properly aligned. This will provide the shooter with the best possible performance of both apparatuses.

The Trijicon MRO is the latest in Trijicon’s line of revolutionary reflex sights. It was preceded by the Trijicon Reflex (1996), the Trijicon Ruggedized Miniature Reflex (RMR, 2009), and the Trijicon Sealed Reflex Sight (SRS, 2012).

The MRO is made in the U.S., and it is definitely one of the finest reflex sights on the market today. If you find yourself in need of a sight intended for fairly short ranges, do not hesitate at all. Do the proper research, and zero in on your wants and needs. These sights are expensive (and rightly so!), so don’t rush into anything. If you see that the MRO fits the bill, then just go for it. You will not be disappointed.

The post Trijicon MRO appeared first on Gunivore.

Table of Contents

• Using Rifle Scopes for Hunting
• Objective Lens
• Tube
• Eyepiece
• Dials and Turrets
• Eye Relief
• Field of View
• Exit Pupil
• Fixed / Variable Lens

Historically speaking, Mankind has always been recognized as a hunter-gatherer species. For thousands of years, we used to hunt with spears, bows, knives, and the like. Some people still prefer to hunt with those survivalist methods and tools. I must admit, I always found that there is a certain dignity to standing face-to-face with your prey.

Most of us no longer hunt for sustenance and survival. These days, firearms have taken over the scene, and hunting rifles are the mainstream weapon of choice. One thing which every hunter needs is a good scope for hunting rifle.

Using Rifle Scopes for Hunting

A lot of us don’t necessarily understand the idea behind a scope. There are many individuals who spend good money on a decent rifle, but then skimp when it comes to choosing a scope. This is usually a big mistake, which causes hunters to become frustrated with themselves and their weapons.

So, here are a few pointers which will help you find a hunting scope that is fit for your needs. Make sure to internalize these ideas. They may not all apply to you specifically, but they are all important to some degree. Using a scope can be the easiest thing in the world, if you know what you are doing.

First off – and this is true for anyone carrying a weapon – you need to understand the tools which are at your disposal, and know how to use them properly. So, let’s go over some of the scope’s basics.

A telescopic sight (aka scope) consists of several parts:

Objective Lens

The objective lens is a lens held in place by an objective lens bell. This is the lens which is aimed outward, and it is usually larger than the ocular lens through which we view our target. The objective lens is directly responsible for controlling the amount of light which comes through the scope.

Tube

The tube is the main body of the scope. It transmits the light to the viewer, and it is usually a standard diameter – 1 inch or 30mm. Some tubes are ¾ of an inch.

Eyepiece

The eyepiece is the part of the scope which holds the ocular lens. Next to it is usually a power ring (aka zoom ring), which determines the power of magnification.

Dials and Turrets

The dials and turrets facilitate the adjustment of windage and elevation. On hunting scopes, these are usually covered. Some models of scopes have a side focus on top of the two dials already mentioned. Some models have an objective ring dial, which adjusts the image. There are also models which have a dial in charge of turning on an illuminated reticle.

Now, let’s go over some of the concepts which will serve you in choosing the right scope for you.

Eye Relief

Usually consisting of a 2-4 inches, eye relief is the distance from which the image is visible. Longer relief means that your eye doesn’t need to be right up against the eyepiece. This offers protection from the dreaded “scope bite”. Scope bite is the name given to the injury which occurs when the recoil causes the rifle to hit the shooter’s eye or eyebrow. It is a common beginner’s injury, mostly. If the eye is further away from the rifle (longer eye relief), there is less chance of the face being struck by a recoiling rifle.

Field of View

This field is always measured at a standard of 100 yards, and the number given always refers to the width of view. A larger field of view is preferable, so if you are deliberating between several scopes with matching attributes, the field of view may be the tie-breaker.

Exit Pupil

The exit pupil is the name given to the amount of light which is passing through the objective lens. The way to calculate exit pupil is: objective lens / magnification power of scope = exit pupil. If magnification is increased, exit pupil will decrease. Times of dawn, dusk, and poor lighting conditions in general are where your objective lens (and exit pupil) really matter.

Fixed / Variable Lens

For many years, all telescopic lenses were with a fixed power of magnification. Then, lenses which offer a range of magnification capabilities were introduced. The advantage of a variable lens is that you can turn it up or down, in accordance with your needs. For closer shots, lower power; for longer shots, higher power.

Now that we have covered the basics of scope lore, it is time to focus on something crucial, which many shooters don’t fully appreciate: your scope should probably cost more than your rifle. This sounds a little odd. After all, the rifle is the main tool here, right? It doesn’t make sense. I mean, a scope without a rifle is pretty useless for hunting, so why would I spend more on it than on the rifle itself?

There are many scopes and sights geared towards the hunting crowd. Some of them are cheap pieces of plastic which barely merit the name “telescopic sight”, while others are actually good. Some of them are great. Here is the thing: while you may be tempted to purchase a cheap scope (thinking that “hey, a scope is a scope”), don’t give in to the temptation.

A good hunting scope – one  one made of durable materials, high-quality glass, and which has accurate turrets – is going to cost some money. Don’t be afraid to plunk down the cash for a good scope. It can transform your game. A lower-quality scope will invariably be less expensive, but it can damage your overall experience in the long and short run.

Scopes come in a variety of reticles (formerly known as “crosshairs”), and you should choose a scope with a reticle which fits your intended use. Like many things having to do with firearm accessories, it is matter of personal preference. There are reticles which incorporate ballistics into the image. Some are illuminated, some include a dot, some are red, and others are black. Some are even designed to compensate for parallax (eye movement).

Some hunting scopes are designed for larger game, and some are designed for use on smaller game or varmints. Most hunting scopes come with turret covers, which help the sight stay zeroed. Hunting scopes are traditionally with lowered turrets, since dials or turrets which stick out may get caught in the bush, or snag different parts of the woods when you are getting into position.

So, there is more to scopes than meets the eye. If you are in the market for a good hunting sight, take your time. Do your research, and don’t settle on anything less than what is perfect for you.

• For shorter distance hunting, a 2x or 3x fixed scope, or alternatively a 1 – 4x variable scope will probably do the trick.
• For medium range shooting, a 4, 5, or 6x fixed scope should prove to be a good decision. A 3 – 8x variable scope will also work.
• For longer ranges, a 6x and up fixed scope should be the way to go. A 4-10x variable should also prove to meet your needs.

Some of the better companies out there are Bushnell, Nikon, UTG, and Leupold, to name a few. There are other good companies out there, which also make great optical accessories. Ultimately, it is a judgement call, and you are the one who will have to make it.

The post Tips and Benefits of a Good Scope for Hunting Rifle appeared first on Gunivore.

Table of Contents

• AccuPoint Scopes – at a Glance
• AccuPoint TR24
• AccuPoint TR23
• AccuPoint TR22
• Scope Out the Best Scopes

Trijicon (established in 1981, by Glyn Bindon) is mostly known for its Advanced Combat Optical Gunsights (ACOG) series. The ACOG is used by security forces and law-enforcement agencies all over the world, as well as by private citizens. But there is a lot more to Trijicon then the famous ACOG.

This Trijicon AccuPoint review will examine the series of magnifying optics, introduced in 1998. AccuPoint is a series of variable powered scopes, meant primarily for hunting and sport/competition shooting. It features battery-free reticle illumination, and manual brightness adjustability. The AccuPoint series has multi-layer coated lenses, which greatly add to the scope’s abilities. It allows for quicker target acquisition, and engagement with targets of varying distances and positions.

AccuPoint Scopes – at a Glance

The AccuPoint’s overall powers of magnification range from 1x to 20x, with objective lenses ranging from 24mm to 56mm, and tubes being of standard 30mm or 1 inch sizes.

There are 22 different AccuPoint scopes to choose from. These versions differ by magnification, objective lens, reticle shape and color, sources of illumination, housing materials, weight, length, and eye relief.

Let’s compare some of the most popular AccuPoint models:

AccuPoint TR24

TR24 – this model is the smallest (and probably most popular) AccuPoint scope, and it starts at 1x magnification power.

• Magnification – 1x – 4x
• Objective lens – 24mm
• Length – 10.3 inches
• Illumination – tritium and fiber-optic
• Housing – 6061-T6 anodized aluminum
• Weight – 14.4 oz.
• Reticle pattern – triangle
• Reticle color – amber (day), amber (night)
• Eye relief – 3.2 inches

The TR24 has two offshoots:

TR24-C-200070 – duplex crosshair

TR24-3 – German #4 crosshair

AccuPoint TR23

TR23 – this scope is located directly on the opposite side of the AccuPoint spectrum, featuring the largest objective lens, and greatest magnifying abilities.

• Magnification – 5x-20x
• Objective lens – 50mm
• Length – 13.6 inches (without sunshade) 16.6 (with sunshade)
• Illumination – tritium and fiber-optic
• Housing – 6061-T6 anodized aluminum
• Weight – 26.9 oz. (without sunshade) 29.4 (with sunshade)
• Reticle pattern – triangle
• Reticle color – amber (day), amber (night)
• Eye relief – 3.8–4.1 inches

The TR23 has two offshoots:

TR23-1 – standard duplex crosshair

TR23-2 – MIL-dot crosshair

AccuPoint TR22

TR22 – this is one of the largest and most powerful scopes in the AccuPoint series, featuring an impressive 56mm objective lens. This model gathers light like no other, and provides the shooter with a large exit pupil and field of view.

• Magnification – 2.5x-10x
• Objective lens – 56mm
• Length – 13.8 inches
• Illumination – tritium and fiber-optic
• Housing – 6061-T6 anodized aluminum
• Weight – 20.7 oz.
• Reticle pattern – triangle
• Reticle color – amber (day), amber (night)
• Eye relief – 2.8–4.1 inches

The TR22 has two offshoots:

TR22-1 – standard duplex crosshair

TR22-2 – MIL-dot crosshair

The AccuPoint series embodies everything that you can come to expect from a company with Trijicon’s reputation. Their records speak for themselves, and their optics are trusted by countless individuals all over the world. Their scopes and sights have proven themselves on the battlefield, in many competitions, and at the shooting range. Trijicon’s goal is to provide reliable, dependable aiming solutions wherever they may be required, and they will stop at nothing to achieve perfection.

Whether it is used on a hunting trip, or as an accessory at a 3-gun competition – this series gets the job done. This is not to say that the shooter should forgo training, and rely completely on optics. Not at all. However, when it comes to acquiring a target, and fast, nothing can beat Trijicon’s AccuPoint series.

These scopes are aptly named, for sure. Pin point accuracy was at the top of the list of requirements for this series, and Trijicon’s experts certainly delivered.  These are the types of scopes which you can use for long periods of time, and you will probably find that there is a lot less eye fatigue and stress, compared to other kinds of scopes or sights.

Some say that the mark of a good scope is looking through the eye piece, and not even noticing there is glass. This is what the AccuPoint is – crystal clear images at any time of day or night, with tritium and fiber optics providing the best picture, even at low-light/dawn/dusk conditions. The adjustable brightness also adds to this series’ appeal, and it just goes to show how Trijicon is always looking for ways to bring better aiming solutions to those who need them.

Scope Out the Best Scopes

If you are a hunting/camping/outdoor enthusiast, there is a chance you spent some good money on a quality hunting rifle. That is all well and good, but what about the scope? Many individuals invest a hefty sum on a rifle, but don’t invest in a good scope. This is usually a mistake. If anything, the scope should probably cost more than the rifle to which it is attached or mounted!

When it comes to scopes and sights, the differences are many and varied. So many companies, models, and makes to choose from. But, there is one rule which is pretty consistent. That rule is: the more expensive scopes are usually better. You get what you pay for, and if you want a good scope, you are going to have to put down some money. But don’t fret – you will know exactly where that extra money went, the very second you look through that eye piece.

Trijicon has been around since 1981, and it has been manufacturing its own unique brand of optics since 1987. For nearly 30 years, Trijicon has been continuously dependable and innovative, utilizing cutting-edge technology and superb craftsmanship. It has earned the respect and admiration of millions, and to this day the name Trijicon is synonymous with quality, precision, accuracy, and reliability.

A limited lifetime warranty is given to all Trijicon products. This warranty covers defects in materials and craftsmanship. A separate limited warranty is placed on the sources of illumination.

Trijicon’s scopes and sights don’t come cheap, nor should they. They are worth every dollar, and anyone who has used one – whether in combat or in competition – will attest to its ease of use, its, clarity and its accuracy. To this day, Trijicon’s scopes are standard issue for Army, Marines, and government agents.

If you get the chance to try these out in person, don’t pass it up. It is quite an experience, especially at long-range shooting. That feeling you get when you hear that audible PING! of your freshly-released bullet striking a target located oh-so-many yards away – it is in those moments that you feel just how much power you are holding in your hands. It is utterly exhilarating.

The post Trijicon AccuPoint Review appeared first on Gunivore.

Table of Contents

• U.S. Special Forces and ACOG
• TA01 4×32
• TA31 4X32 BAC
• TA02 4X32 LED
• Tech specs for the TA11
• Advantages of Trijicon Scopes
• Review of Trijicon ACOG

Originally engineered and produced for the M16 / M4 platform, the Advanced Combat Optical Gunsights (ACOG) series by Trijicon exploded onto the optical accessories scene in 1987. It was almost immediately included in the U.S. Army Advanced Combat Rifle program.

U.S. Special Forces and ACOG

Throughout the 1990’s, changes were implemented, improvements were made, and ACOGs soon became the standard issue for U.S. Special Forces and Marines as well. The Trijicon ACOG scope optic was making quite a name for itself, and it hasn’t stopped. It is still considered a legendary gunsight, to this day.

By 2009, half a million ACOGs were produced. These sights have proven themselves on the battlefield time after time, and they are still immensely popular with many security forces and militaries around the world.

The ACOG’s magnification ability varies, and it ranges from 1.5x to 6x. It is mainly fit for 2.23 or 5.56 caliber rifles, but there is also a .308-compatible model. Some ACOGs have a tritium illumination source, others have a fiber optic, and some have both of them working together. During the daytime, the fiber optic generates a very clear reticle. At nighttime, the tritium illumination kicks in and it really glows. Depending on the intended use of the scope, a shooter will be able to get a better idea of which ACOG to get.

TA01 4×32

There are 12 different ACOG models, and the most popular one is the TA01 4X32 (magnification 4x, and a 32 millimeters objective lens), which is one of the first models Trijicon released.

Some tech specs on the TA01:

• Magnification – 4x
• Objective lens – 32mm
• Length – 5.8 inches
• Illumination – tritium
• Housing – forged aluminum
• Weight – 9.9 oz.
• Reticle pattern – crosshairs
• Reticle color – black (day), red (night)
• Eye relief – 1.5 inches

The TA01 has several offshoots:

• TA01LAW – designated for the M16, LAPD reticle
• TA01NSN-308 – .308 Ballistic Reticle, TA51 Mount, Backup Iron Sights, and Dust Cover
• TA01B – .308 Full Line Red Illumination
• TA01NSN – designated for the for M4A1 – includes Flat Top Adapter, Backup Iron Sights, and Dust Cover

Let’s go more in depth with the rest of the ACOGs. Each model of the 12 ACOGs has offshoots of varying design characteristics. Some of these offshoots only differ in reticle pattern and color, while some incorporate other methods of reticle illumination, different mounting options, platform / caliber compatibilities, and other attributes. What makes all offshoots of a particular model similar, is the power of magnification and objective lens size. Those two things remain constant.

Two other popular models, which share the same power and lens size as the TA01, are the TA31 4X32 BAC and the TA02 4X32 LED. The TA31 offers dual illumination, and has 10 offshoots of its own. The TA02 is unique, because it offers battery-powered illumination. It has 3 offshoots of its own.

TA31 4X32 BAC

• Magnification – 4x
• Objective lens – 32mm
• Length – 5.8 inches
• Illumination – tritium and fiber optics
• Housing – forged aluminum
• Weight – 9.9 oz.
• Reticle pattern – donut
• Reticle color – red (day), center red (night)
• Eye relief – 1.5 inches

TA02 4X32 LED

• Magnification – 4x
• Objective lens – 32mm
• Length – 6 inches
• Illumination – Light Emitting Diode (LED)
• Housing – forged aluminum
• Weight – 18.1 oz. including alkaline battery and mount
• Reticle pattern – crosshairs
• Reticle color – red (day), red (night)
• Eye relief – 1.5 inches
• Battery requirements – single AA (lithium or alkaline)
• Battery life – Over 12,000 hours on setting #4 using supplied alkaline battery at 21ºC (70ºF)

Tech specs for the TA11

Another very popular model is the TA11 series. It is a 3.5X35 sight, and it really does look like a piece of work that was made for combat. One great advantage this model has is a wider range of eye relief. In the older models, you had to get up close and personal with the sight (about an inch and a half from the eye piece), but the TA11 is a different story.

• Magnification – 3.5x

  

• Objective lens – 35mm
• Length – 8 inches
• Illumination – fiber-optic and tritium
• Housing – forged aluminum
• Weight – 14 oz.
• Reticle pattern – donut
• Reticle color – red (day), red (night)
• Eye relief – 2.4 inches

The TA11 has 12 different offshoots. They are all illuminated by dual sources, and they vary by reticle and calibration.

Advantages of Trijicon Scopes

ACOGs really are made of high quality materials. These scopes are ones which have seen a lot of combat, and have withstood many challenges. The glass is amazing, and once you mount this beast onto a firearm, you can tell that it means business.

Another clear advantage of the ACOG system is that most of the series’ models require no batteries. One of the most consistent issues which comes up when dealing with scopes is the question of dependability and reliability. Unlike laser sights, fiber optic and tritium sights require no external power. Trijicon does have a battery-powered ACOG (TA02, 1 AA battery), but the high praise and well-deserved compliments were given first and foremost to innovative models like the TA11H and the TA01.

Trijicon tests all of its optical accessories, and it puts them through a little bit of hell before deciding they are worthy of being produced for the masses or military. After the scope is given the green light by the company, it is the military’s turn. Once again, the scopes are put through tests and trials, with extreme conditions and situations (like only the military can provide).

These scopes are waterproof, drop proof, dust proof, and are considered to be a great addition to any combat rifle. Any firearm which is lucky enough to have an ACOG mounted on it, will serve its carrier well. There is a reason why these babies were (and are) used by armed forces and organizations around the globe.

One thing which must be mentioned is price. The ACOG series is expensive. If it wasn’t, I personally would have a hard time believing in it. The reason that Trijicon ACOGs cost so much (~$1100 – $3700), is because they manage to deliver an experience like no other scope. These are worth every single penny, and they are built to last. There is a limited lifetime warranty on the materials and workmanship, and various limited warranties on the illumination systems.

ACOG manages to let the shooter view a crystal clear reticle at night, without requiring any specific night vision optics. Some models even arrive with an added miniature reflex sight, which is a nice option to have. The ACOG series is made in the USA, and it is one of the telltale signs of a true Trijicon ACOG. Some companies are producing imitation ACOGs, but none of them are doing it quite as well as Trijicon.

Side note: some earlier Trijicon 4X32 models have the inscription JN8:12 branded on them. This is a reference to a Bible verse (John 8:12), and it became something of a controversial issue when the media got hold of the information. Trijicon first released their military scopes with this inscription. Eventually, the military scratched off the inscription, and told Trijicon to leave the “bible code” out of any new shipments.

Review of Trijicon ACOG

The ACOG comes with a hard case, a scope dust cover, and an owner’s manual. The original models came with bikini type lens covers, but the newer ones come with a scope cover (also known as a scope coat).

If you have the chance to pick one of these up – do it. They are not cheap, nor should they be. Because these things are the real deal. The USMC has one on every single standard issue rifle (as far as I know), and if it is good enough for the Marines, it is probably good enough for pretty much everyone else.

One other thing that should be mentioned is close quarter combat (CQC) situations. The magnification on the ACOG is usually 3-4x, which – for most people – means that it is great for long distances, but may not be as good for close range encounters. This is not necessarily true. One of the techniques which Glyn Bindon, founder of Trijicon, innovated is the Bindon Aiming Concept (BAC), which provides the shooter with a way to keep both eyes open while zeroing in on target.

Essentially, this means that the shooter’s field of view remains unobstructed and uncompromised. You can still have a depth of field, while looking into the eye piece. If you have a CQC situation, the reticle will get you on target whether it is day or night, or whether the target is fixed or in motion. Once you are on target, the eye which is closer to the eye piece will re-focus, allowing the shooter to take a precise shot.

The ACOG series (and Trijicon itself) is constantly improving and innovating. In 2015, the company introduced the GEN2 ACOG, which have finger adjusters and new forged housing. Some GEN2 models have a varying base height, which can better accommodate a wider variety of platforms.

If you have the money – buy it. Don’t think twice. The ACOG is an exceptional product, and not everyone can afford it. If you can afford it, and have the need for it (of course), then get it. It is well worth the money, and is sure to last.

With the wide array of advanced optical accessories out on the market today, don’t forget about the importance and necessity of back up iron sights for rifles

The post Trijicon ACOG Scope Optic appeared first on Gunivore.

A rifle’s iron sights are the basics. They are a shooter’s ‘bread and butter’, as it were. With so many advanced optical accessories available, it is best to be reminded of why iron sights are a necessity. And make no mistake – they are. That is why so many rifles and shotguns come with sights already fixed onto them. They are an integral part of the firearm.

Seemingly, new kinds of optics are a lot more reliable (and much more precise) than the old-fashioned iron sights. However, even if you have the best scope, laser, or reflex sight in the world, you cannot count on them 100%. That is why it is always a good idea to have back-up sights, even if you have complete faith in your rifle’s glass or laser. Optical accessories can fail, run out of power, or sustain heavy damage due to terrain and shrapnel.

What Are Backup Iron Sights (BUIS)?

So, we’ve established that iron sights are indeed necessary, but what exactly are they?

Essentially, iron sights are a system which helps the shooter find a target. The markings or shapes on the front and rear sights are aligned with the target, and once that is done the shooter may fire away. If you are shooting within the rifle’s effective range, and if you have zeroed your sights properly, your bullets will hit the target.

The rear sight is the one closer to the shooter’s eye. The front sight is the one closer to the barrel. On some modern rifles, both the rear and front sights are adjustable. There are firearms which feature a fixed front sight, and an adjustable rear sight only. Iron sights are commonly made of steel or aluminum, and sometimes polymer or similar synthetic materials.

Some iron back-up sights are fixed, while others can be folded down and flipped back up when needed. Ultimately, it is the unique state of your weapon which will determine whether you need fixed or folding sights. Fixed sights have no moving parts, etc., so they are less prone to damage and malfunction. They have a clear advantage there over the folding sights. On the other hand, folding sights are more compact. They can stay on the rifle and provide a potential back-up, even if there is a red dot sight or scope sitting in their place. Should the need arise, the accessories can be taken off and substituted with the iron sights.

If you plan on using iron sights as your main targeting method, they should probably be fixed. If you only need them as a back-up, folding sights should do the trick.

The sights themselves come in two main configurations: gas block sights and same plain sights. With gas block sights, they sit a little higher up. This configuration features a front sight which sits on top of the gas block. This configuration is available only to rifles whose gas block is lower than the upper receiver. If the gas block is as high as the upper receiver, use same plain sights.

True to their name, same plain sights are mounted on the same height as the upper receiver. If the front and rear sights were to be put on a flat surface, the front sight’s post would be at the exact same level as the rear sight aperture.

Iron sights may come in an open style or aperture style. Open sights are so named due to the top of the rear sight being open. The sight consists of some sort of notch, or alternatively a U or V shape, which is then aligned with the front sight’s ring or bead.

Aperture sights, on the other hand, use a slightly different technique. These sights are also called “peep” sights or “ghost ring” sights, because the rear sight consists of a metal ring through which the shooter gazes. The rear sight then loses some focus, becoming a blurry shape. This is why it is called a “ghost ring”. The front sight is pretty identical to those which are part of the open sight configuration.

Most civilian, law enforcement, or hunting rifles are built with open sights, leaving the majority of the aperture-sighted rifles to those designated as military assault rifles.

Originally, sights were immovable. With time, advancements in firearm technology and firearm design have made it possible to adjust the sights (rear, front, or both – depending on the rifle). These adjustments can be made to factor in elements like windage and muzzle elevation.

Standard Factory Sights for Rifles

Let’s compare some popular rifles’ standard factory sights:

• AR-15 / M16 – aperture sights. A circular hole for a rear sight, and an open dovetail with a post on the front.
• AK-47 / Variants – open sights. A notch for a rear sights, and an adjustable post as a front sight.
• Ruger 10/22 – open sights. The rear is a flip-up V notch kind of sight, and the front is beaded.

As mentioned before, there are times when optical accessories literally take the place of a rifle’s original sights. In order to still have the ability to use backup iron sights for rifles – without having to remove the optic accessories – there are companies which produce iron sights with a 45 degree offset. These are designed specifically for fast transitions between a scope or red dot sight, and iron sights. The shooter needs to only tilt his rifle 45 degrees – without removing his cheek from the stock – and the iron sights become usable. Longer-range target suddenly appears in your field of view? Simply tilt the rifle back to its original vertical position, find your target, aim, and fire. It may require some getting used to, but eventually you will be shifting from close range to mid/long range targets like a boss.

NOTE: there are some great rifles, like the Kel Tec KSG, which arrive with no sights at all. While there are some great Kel Tec KSG accessories out there, ones which have absolutely nothing to do with sights, one of the first things a KSG owner should get is a pair of flip up iron sights. This is true whether they will be designated as back-ups, or as the primary targeting system.

The doctrines of war are an ever-changing thing, and with the advent of holographic sights, laser sights, and telescopic sights with amazing powers of accuracy and magnification – iron sights are quickly becoming a relic of the past. Nevertheless, they still serve a very important purpose. Even if you have a sight or scope mounted on your rifle, don’t ever neglect your iron sight training.

These days, most engagements occur within the relatively short range of 50 yards or less. In reality, the chances of you needing your iron sights are a lot greater than the chances of you needing your scope which can pick off a rooftop threat 500 yards away.

The post Backup Iron Sights for Rifles appeared first on Gunivore.

Table of Contents

• Scopes and Sights Categories
• Iron Sights
• Reflex (aka Reflector) Sights
• Laser Sights
• Holographic Sights
• Telescopic (aka Scope or Magnifying) Sights

Whether it is for military or civilian use, nothing beats a scope for mid- to long-range shooting. When dealing with any kind of optics, electronic or otherwise, the question is always the same: what’s the best one to use?

It is a very common question, and it presents itself whenever accessories are brought up. But this applies even more, perhaps, when it comes to the kind of accessories which involve optical focus or enhancement.

For the purposes of this post, we’re going to focus on sights and scopes for rifles. More specifically, we will look at the AR-15. Sights for handguns (read more on glock 19 sights), shotguns, sniper rifles, and other types of firearms can vary greatly, but there are certain principles which remain pretty constant.

So, “what’s the best” may not the right question to ask. The question that would provide the best possible answer to the optics question is twofold: A – what am I using this weapon for? And B – how much am I willing to spend?

Are you fitting this weapon with a scope for competitive use? For lazily picking off vermin who have zeroed in on your property? For personal safety during a 3-day nature hike? A hunting trip? Home defense? Combat / law enforcement use?

There is no one scope that does it all. Depending on the task at hand, your wants and needs can vary a great deal. You will require a different scope or sight enhancer for each of the situations mentioned above. It is precisely because of this that prior knowledge of use and intent is necessary, before choosing a scope or sight.

Scopes and Sights Categories

Generally, scopes and sights are broken down into several categories:

• Iron sights
• Red dot sights, which is a general term usually reserved for the following: Reflex (aka reflector) sights, Laser sights, and Holographic sights
• Telescopic (aka scope or magnifying) sights

Within the scope sights category, there is another split, this time into fixed or adjustable magnification. Scopes also differ by size of objective lens, tube length, eye piece, turrets, reticles, and mounting capabilities. They can also vary greatly in the category of price.

Price is a factor which is important, and not only from a financial point of view. When it comes to scope prices, the guiding principal is this: the more expensive scopes are usually better. Obviously, this isn’t true 100% of the time, but more often than not, you will find that the more expensive scopes are made of higher grade materials, are a lot more durable, and can provide the shooter with an accuracy that is significantly better than the cheaper models.

Let’s go a little more in depth.

Iron Sights

Normally, these are the sights which will be provided by the factory. Sometimes, the rifle will comes with no sights at all. Iron sights are usually made of metal, and include two components – a front sight and rear sight. The formation of the sights can either be open or aperture. Open sights make use of some sort of notch, bump, or line in the rear, while aperture sights offer the use of a circular hole. In adjustable or flip up iron sights, it is usually the rear one which is adjustable for windage and elevation. Iron sights are generally made of aluminum, polymer, or steel.

Some iron sights are placed at a 45 degree offset, which allows the shooter to quickly transitions between optics and iron sights.

Reflex (aka Reflector) Sights

Reflex sights have been in use since the turn of the 20th century. That is impressive. They were all the rage during WWII. These sights make use of an aiming point (like a crosshair or bullseye) which has been superimposed on the shooter’s field of view. This is done by using a reflecting glass component (hence the name), and it allows the shooter to focus on one thing – the target. No need to align anything with anything. The image stays on target, even if the shooter’s eyes move.

Laser Sights

These are pretty straightforward. A laser beam is emitted from the sight (which is aligned with the barrel), and the beam bounces off the target. This will result in a small dot appearing on the target itself. Lasers are powerful, and the red (or, in recent years, green) dot will appear even at long distances. Even though a laser beam is considered to be very accurate, these sights cannot factor in any changes in distance, windage, ballistics, target movement, etc.

Holographic Sights

The first holographic sight was introduced in 1998, by EOTech. The idea behind the holosight is that – much like a reflective sight – a reticle is superimposed on the shooter’s field of view. This is done using advanced photography. A photograph of the reticle is taken, and is then placed between two pieces of glass. Unlike a reflective sight, the holosight has no reflective coating, which means that the path of normal light is not curved or otherwise distorted. The reticles, being holograms, could be made into any shape or configuration, including three dimensional ones.

Telescopic (aka Scope or Magnifying) Sights

Fixed scopes: these are usually less expensive and smaller in size. They may not be as versatile as adjustable scopes, but they do provide the shooter with a simpler optic. Sometimes, less really is more. A 6x fixed scope could potentially provide the shooter with better clarity, higher brightness, and less distortion than an adjustable scope turned to 6x power.

Adjustable scopes: these are also called variable scopes, and they come in many different powers of magnification. This is where close-, mid-, or long-range targets make a huge difference. There are scopes powered up to 60x, but the chances of you needing to actually use that kind of scope are slim to none. Just because a scope has lots of magnification power, it doesn’t necessarily make it the best one for the task at hand. Again, it all comes down to weapon usage.

Acquiring your target quickly and easily is how you win a gun fight. Many (read: most) armed confrontations take place within short distances of 50 yards or less. In activities such as a 3-gun competition, the distances can be much greater. In combat, depending on the terrain and the presumed location and number of the enemy – heavy, long-range scopes can either be a bare necessity or a useless liability.

Scopes are a great thing to have, especially on an assault rifle. With the AR-15 platform, many aftermarket optics exist. Companies like Mepro, Bushnell, EOTech, and Magpul sight set are doing their best to deliver only the finest optics to their customers.

Other assault rifles, like the AK-47 and its variants, are more limited in the amount of optical accessories which are available for them. This is because the AK-47 has a shorter effective range than the AR-15. That being said, the AK-47 is considered by many to be the more accurate of the two, within their respective ranges – and the best AK 47 scope mount you can get your hands on will only help matters.

Even if you have the best scope in the world, it is never a good idea to get rid of your iron sights. You never know when an optic will fail or be destroyed. It is a battery-powered tool, after all, and you don’t want to become too dependent on it. Practice with both sights, and don’t be left out in the cold. Know how to handle your weapon, for your sake and the sake of your loved ones.

The post Types of Sights and Scopes for Rifles appeared first on Gunivore.