Scope vs Red Dot & Magnifier

[iwindsurf78]

Hello All,
I just finished my first build yesterday and currently have a Bushnell TRS-25 Red Dot. I was thinking about getting the Vortex Viper PST 1-4 or maybe adding a magnifier to my red dot.

I want to be able to shoot with both eyes open at 1x power. And if I get a scope, I want something with an illimunated reticle so it can double as a red dot at 1x Power. So I guess first question is:

1. Scope or Red Dot/Magnifier
2. If Scope - anything other than the Vortex in a similar price range?
3. If Red Dot/Magnifier - anything good at the same $ range as the scope?

All help and feed back is appreciated. I just want to do it right the first time. Thanks!

[ExtremeX]

I have the TRS-25, PA Micro, and the Vortex PST 1-4x…

The Vortex gets easily gets my vote based on quality and versatility. Optically its superior to the TRS-25… the blue tint on the lens of the RDS is pretty aggressive.

With a magnifier on a RDS you will put eye relief back into the equation so that levels the playing field a bit when comparing to scopes.

The Vortex PST illumination isn’t bright enough for use in bright daylight… The red is easily washed out but you still have a black reticle to work with and also work without batteries unlike a red dot. In day with overcast it’s usable but if you are expecting a bright red dot it won’t deliver.

Vortex also makes RDS units… I like them more than the TRS-25, and include a really budget 2x magnifier. I like the overall kit better.

The only RDS / Magnifier combo I used that I actually really liked was the Eotech with the flip to side magnifier, but for that money, I ended up buying an ACOG instead.

[iwindsurf78]

How much are the ACOG's....aren't they close to $1000?

[ExtremeX]

How much are the ACOG's....aren't they close to $1000?

I wasn’t necessarily recommending one… but yes… it’s in that ballpark depending on which model you are looking for. I run a TA31F, but it’s a pretty niche optic… They have their pros/cons just like any other optic.

In all honesty prefer to run my low power variables like 1-4x and 1-6x scopes due to its versatility but I love the ACOG for its simplicity and durability.

What type of shooting do intend to do? Most of my shooting is target shooting, which is why I have a strong preference towards low power variables.

[ExtremeX]

You may want to check out this review thread… it would give you an idea of the various low power variable options on the market.

http://www.ar15.com/forums/t_3_18/421244_The_variable__low_power_multipurpose_scope_review_thread.html&page=1

Another member here also did a fantastic ACOG comparison… it would give you a good idea of what to expect from one.

http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/showthread.php?t=654467