I would like your $.02 on AR optics.

[afweinie]

Here is my dilema:
I need an optic for the M4 carbine that will probably see little use, be neglected a lot, and have to take a beating (you know, the usual military treatment :eek: )

I'm not positive if they will be A2 or A3 uppers, so cover both if you can.

Money is not supposed to be a major issue (does anything cost more than the high-end ACOGs?).

I'm looking at one of the ACOGs, an EOTECH 552, or the Aimpoint Comp M2. I'm also open other suggestions.

I'm guessing distances at which the weapon may be employed is somewhere between point blank and 400+ yards, with most likely somewhere over 150. I've read a lot about the poor performance of the 5.56mm out past 200, so I think accuracy is very important as well as simplicity (we don't live behind our weapons). It would also be very advantagous to be compatible with night vision goggles, since they should be readily available (not a weapon mounted NVD). I know the Comp M2 and the EOTECH have NVG settings, but how about the ACOG(s)?

One thing not needed is a tricked out SOPMOD M4 complete with all the bells & whistles. It's overkill and way too bulky for our needs.

I think I MAY have a say in what we buy so your feedback would be greatly appreciated.

[Zoff12]

Take a look at the Trijicon Tri-Power (http://trijicon.com/user/parts/parts_new.cfm?categoryID=11) . Batteries or not...it will work. Actually has four sources of light...batteries, fiber optic, tritium, AND mini cyalume light stick. You can loose any three of the four sources and it will still be effective. Talk about backup overkill. I like the idea of not having to rely on one power source. I believe that's the route I'm gonna go.
http://trijicon.com/parts/tripower.jpg

[afweinie]

I looked at it on their website, but I have not really seen any reviews on it. Trijicon has not made any junk so far, but I'd like to see some reviews just the same. If you get one any time soon let me know what you think and I'll do some more research. (BTW, we also have plenty of those itty-bitty cyalumes around)

[JE3146]

If you're focusing on 150 to 400, and as close as point blank... I'd suggest a TA31F

The fact you mentioned ACOG suggests your willing to shell out the dough for one. They cost a lot but it will do everything you're asking. With the BAC it'll allow for CQB, and with the BDC and illuminated chevron reticle, it'll allow for fast target aquisition and long distance shots.

[Zoff12]

I have full plans on getting one if I can ever find a dealer that isn't "backordered". I have a problem paying for something and not getting it for 6 months. Midway had them advertised for just under $400.00 a few months ago but listed them as backordered before I ordered. Now they have them listed at $500.00 and, the last time I checked, backordered as well. If I don't find a source soon, I'm going with the Aimpoint M2 but would rather have the Tri-Power.

[afweinie]

JE3146, thats the cool part, I don't plan on shelling out any dough, this is for our unit's weapons. Let me look up the TA31F, have you seen/used this one for yourself?

[JE3146]

I use a TA01NSN which is comparable, but without BAC. The TA31F has the fiberoptic strip which has an illuminated reticle in the day AND night. The BAC offers reduced magnification with both eyes open and 4x magnification with traditional left eye shut.

BAC is called the Bindon Aiming Concept.

[afweinie]

So what you are saying is the target acquisition with the TA31F should be a tad quicker than your TA01NSN, but still be capable of maximizing the 4X magnification?

[JE3146]

it should be a LOT quicker.. the TA31F's bolder reticle stands out far more than the fine crosshairs of the TA01NSN because its illuminated reticle in both night and day. And yes will still maximize at 4x

The TA31 series is new, the TA01 series is old. I got a good deal on mine so I have no regrets, but if I could afford another ACOG I'd buy a TA31F for another rifle :)

[Epinephrine]

Good luck getting one, all production of TA31F's are going to the Marines and wont be avalibe to civilians for a year at least.

And even though the TA01NSN is 10 years old, it is still prefered by all Army, Navy, and Air Force Special Forces over the BAC-equipped ACOGs, reason being that not everyones eyes can use BAC and also they arn't near as durable.

[JE3146]

If you have the money, you can get em.... just expect upwards of 1100$ a unit.. maybe more..

[The Body Bagger]

I've got an Aimpoint ML2 with a ARMS 16 carry handle mount if you're interested.