Good AR optic?

[sigstroker]

I'm looking for an optic for my SHTF AR. It's just your basic 16" Colt, although that role is sorta also filled with a SIG MCX.

The default for a long time was an ACOG, but lately I hear a lot that it's obsolete, eye relief is not so great, etc. So what would you former and current high speed low drag types use if you had a choice? I'm not sure I want to spend for an Elcan.

Is there a commercially available prism sight that out-ACOGs the ACOG? Or something else? Hoping to stay in the 3 digit price range, but if a superior sight by a good margin is out there, I can think about spending up for it.

[Stanze]

You want a SHTF optic for your SHTF gun, but don't want a battle proven ACOG, but want an SHTF optic that out ACOGs the ACOG for three digit price range?

Okayyy...

I'm not a high speed low drag type, I just love my ACOG. It's like cheating.

That said, a Primary Arms Prism sight sounds like your price range. I wouldn't say it's SHTF proven and it requires batteries and glass isn't as clear as ACOG, but you'll definitely get your monies worth from reviews.

http://www.primaryarms.com/primary-arms-3x-compact-prism-scope-w-the-patented-acss-5-56-reticle-pac3x-acss-5-56

[sigstroker]

I did say "hoping" for a 3 digit price. If there's nothing there, then I have to spend up.

[kenl]

Definitely not high speed low drag, but I really like my vortex spitfire. And yes, I have used plenty of acogs in the past. They're nearly indestructible, plus they don't need batteries.

While it's seems to be very well built, I don't know about the spitfire's durability in extreme environments....but it's not going into combat. It lives a pampered life like all of our other optics. The spitfires also don't need batteries to use, at least during the day, plus batteries are cheap.

All things considered, for our uses we just don't see enough difference to spend the extra $$$ on an acog.

[tnlrat37]

http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/showthread.php?p=21865607&highlight=ACOG#post21865607

http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/showthread.php?p=21857357&highlight=ACOG#post21857357

[Sutcliffe]

Consider the 1-4X Variables

Or a 1-6X even.

Kind of a jack of all trades approach.

Not as fast as a red dot for up close or as accurate as the 3-9X(and higher) power variables at 500 yards, but likely perfect for most applications you are looking for.

[OpticsPlanet]

The Sig Bravo4 is definitely an optic i recommend looking at...it won't win awards for looks but optically it's very nice.

-Matt S.

[the Scholar]

My SHTF optics are all Aimpoints. I run a PRO and a Micro T2.

For the money, I don't think you can go wrong with an Aimpoint PRO.

[stevebla]

Aimpoint. Backup Iron sights.

[ChuckDizzle]

I'm thinking the rule of 2/3 might apply here.

You have, quality features, durable, and affordable.

You can pick 2. All three don't exist.

Closest might be the Leupold Mark AR Mod 1 (w firedot) 1.5-4x, or their VX-R patrol 1.25-4x for a little more. Keep in mind you're going to want to budget some $100-150 for the mount.

[Thanatos2203]

Browe? I always like considering something different.

http://www.browe-inc.com/products/4x32-BROWE%C2%AE-Sport-Optic-%252d-Black-Housing.html

or

http://www.browe-inc.com/products/4x32-BROWE-Combat-Optic.html

[CSTactical]

We'd be happy to pick your brain and assist you with the right option for you, please call 916-670-1103

[ef9boy88]

Holosun HS403C is a great option for just such an occasion. Solar power with battery back up, 99% of the time you will be on solar power anyway.

[Unbekannt]

I'm looking for an optic for my SHTF AR. It's just your basic 16" Colt, although that role is sorta also filled with a SIG MCX.

The default for a long time was an ACOG, but lately I hear a lot that it's obsolete, eye relief is not so great, etc. So what would you former and current high speed low drag types use if you had a choice? I'm not sure I want to spend for an Elcan.

Is there a commercially available prism sight that out-ACOGs the ACOG? Or something else? Hoping to stay in the 3 digit price range, but if a superior sight by a good margin is out there, I can think about spending up for it.

Primary Arms makes several Xs prisms using the ASCC reticle. This reticle system has been adopted for the ACOG recently under license from PA. I have on of these prisms on my AR. This won't cost an arm and a leg either. Find the power appropriate for your use and look at what they have.

Here is 3X.

http://www.primaryarms.com/primary-arms-3x-compact-prism-scope-w-the-patented-acss-5-56-reticle-pac3x-acss-5-56

They also have 5X and 2.5X. I have 2.5X.

[DrewTheBrave]

What's your budget?

Nightforce 1-8x or 2-10x are hard to beat under $2,000.

Under $1,000, the Vortex Viper PST Gen II in 1-6x, 2-10x, or 3-15x are all awesome.

Around $500, I like the Leupold VX-R and Mark AR with FireDot reticles, in either 1-4x or 3-9x depending on your preference. I haven't used the Steiner P4Xi, but that's a strong contender as well.

Unless you want a Red Dot, then go with an Aimpoint (LONG battery life) or MRO (if you like a bigger Field of View).