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Choosing the Best EOTech for AR-15

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eotech-logoChoosing the best EOTech holographic sight is not a simple task at all. EOTech designs and markets electro-optic products. They produce weapon sights for small arms, including AR-15 rifles. Primarily, EOTech manufactures holographic weapons sights.

As the first company to create holographic sights, EOTech solved the problem of wavelength instability that was exhibited by laser diodes. The sights they developed, achromatic holographic optics, compensate for any change in the emission wavelength of the laser diode with temperature. Designed to be mounted on small arms, they offer better visibility and assist in aiming.

Contenders for the Best EOTech for AR-15

EOTech Technology

Unlike reflector sights, EOTech holographic sights do not use a reflected reticle system, instead a reticle is recorded in three-dimensional space onto holographic film as a part of the optical viewing window.

This reticle uses collimated light and has an aim-point that can move with eye position. Since a laser is used as the light source the aiming reticle can be an infinitely small dot, for someone with 20/20 vision the dot can appear at about 1MoA. It’s also easy to shoot with both eyes open.

As compensation for any change in the laser wavelength, EOTech sights employ a holography grating that disperses the light in the opposite direction, resulting in a reticle that is stable despite any change in temperature.

500-series Holographic Sights

Preview
EOTECH 512 Holographic Weapon Sight
EOTECH 552 Holographic Weapon Sight
Title
EOTech 512
EOTech 552
Weight
11.5 oz
11.5 oz
Length | Width | Height
5.6” x 2” x 2.5”
5.6” x 2” x 2.5”
Battery Life (Lithium)
1,000 hours
1,000 hours
Night Vision Ready?
Water Proofing
10 ft
33 Ft
More Information
Click For Price
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Preview
EOTECH 512 Holographic Weapon Sight
Title
EOTech 512
Weight
11.5 oz
Length | Width | Height
5.6” x 2” x 2.5”
Battery Life (Lithium)
1,000 hours
Night Vision Ready?
Water Proofing
10 ft
More Information
Click For Price
Preview
EOTECH 552 Holographic Weapon Sight
Title
EOTech 552
Weight
11.5 oz
Length | Width | Height
5.6” x 2” x 2.5”
Battery Life (Lithium)
1,000 hours
Night Vision Ready?
Water Proofing
33 Ft
More Information
Click For Price

The EOTech 512 and 552 models are your starting point for holographic sights in the EOTech line. And, they are probably all you need.

Lets start with what these two sights have in common: Both take two AA batteries and last 1,000 continuous hours (on a lithium batter). Dimension-ally they are the same. And, both sights weigh in at 11.5 oz. The 500-series weighs less than half of some variable magnification scopes, which can weigh-in at well over 20 oz.

They also feature the same A65 reticle, which is great for accuracy and fast target acquisition. The reticle has a tiny 1 MOA red dot in the center for precision shots, and a 65 MOA outer ring for getting on target faster at closer distances.

The advantage of the 552 over the 512 model is night vision compatibility and weather-proofing. The 512 is not night-vision ready. The 552 is. And, the 552 is water proof down to 30 ft vs the 512’s water resistance to 10 ft.

Between the two I would go with the EOTech 512 A65 model. Go with the 552 if you plan to use night vision, or need the extra weatherproofing.

XPS-Series Holographic Sights

Preview
EOTECH XPS2 Holographic Weapon Sight
EOTech XPS3 Military Holosight
Title
EOTech XPS2
EOTech XPS2
Weight
9 oz
9 oz
Length | Width | Height
3.8” x 2.1” x 2.5”
3.8” x 2.1” x 2.5”
Battery Life (Lithium)
600
600
Night Vision Ready?
Water Proofing
10 ft
33 ft
More Information
Click For Price
Click For Price
Preview
EOTECH XPS2 Holographic Weapon Sight
Title
EOTech XPS2
Weight
9 oz
Length | Width | Height
3.8” x 2.1” x 2.5”
Battery Life (Lithium)
600
Night Vision Ready?
Water Proofing
10 ft
More Information
Click For Price
Preview
EOTech XPS3 Military Holosight
Title
EOTech XPS2
Weight
9 oz
Length | Width | Height
3.8” x 2.1” x 2.5”
Battery Life (Lithium)
600
Night Vision Ready?
Water Proofing
33 ft
More Information
Click For Price

While stepping up slightly, the XPS2 and XPS3 models mostly fall in line with the 500-series. The XPS2 being the lower-end version without night vision capability. The XPS3 also has the better weather-proofing you see in the EOTech 552.

What stands out about the XPS-series is their size and weight. They are much smaller and lighter than the 512 and 552. This could be a major advantage if you are likely to be in high stress situations at close quarters – like you might in law enforcement.

That weight and size advantage will cost you 400 hours of battery life on a single charge (down from 1,000 continuous hours to 600 hours). This may not be an issue if you regularly swap-out your batteries, but keep it in mind.

The XPS line is also more expensive, with the XPS3 running about 25% more expensive than the 552.

Conclusion

EOTech has been producing superior sights for years. Their holographic technology will keep you accurate at longer distances, and get you on target faster as short distances. Just like red dot sights. Making it perfect for close range use.

The sights they design and market are often superior in many aspects, an excellent product for use with any gun – the AR-15 especially.

All of the sights made by EOTech are excellent, but the best holographic sight for the money is the EOTech 512 Holographic Sight. It’s a solid sight that delivers. It might be missing a few of the features of the 552 or the XPS-line, but you may not need the extra bells and whistles. Unless you have a special need, go with the 512. You won’t be disappointed.

Where Are Vortex Scopes Made?

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Vortex Optics

Vortex Optics is an American family-owned company that offers a wide variety of telescopic sights ranging from binoculars to riflescopes. The company’s scopes, in particular, are quite popular due to their incredible features and reasonable price points. However, many scope buyers often question where Vortex products are made. This concern stems from the fact that a lot of US riflescope brands don’t make their products from scratch these days. As a result, concerns about quality are rife among scope buyers.

Vortex Optics

Before learning where vortex scopes are made, it’s important to know the main product lines that come from this optics company. At the time of this writing, Vortex scopes can be distinctly grouped into the following product lines:

  • Vortex Razor HD: These Vortex scopes cost the most but the good news is that they’re not as expensive as other brands. Being their premium line, Vortex develops Razor HD scopes with high quality standards and optics designed to provide excellent performance.
  • Vortex Viper: The Viper line is the second best offering that Vortex has under its belt when it comes to riflescopes. Viper scopes offer great quality compared to a number of similar scopes from other brands in their price range. These scopes also provide more magnification and precision in shooting. Original models such as the 30mm 6.5-20×44 and 6.5-20×50 were well-built and are still good scopes. However, you can find better configurations in recent Vortex scopes such as the Viper HS and Viper PST models.
  • Vortex Diamondback: Diamondback scopes are available at cheaper prices than the Viper or Razor HD models. The glass is well-designed and Diamondback scopes are known to have a large field of view and high magnification.
  • Vortex Crossfire: The Crossfire line, including the Crossfire II, is on the lower price range of Vortex scopes. However, the quality is still very good and buyers get to choose from a wide range of configurations.

Where Are Vortex Scopes Made?
Maybe a more direct question is, are Vortex scopes made in the USA? While Vortex claims on its official website that all their products are designed, engineered, pre-inspected, and serviced in-house, labels on their scopes indicating the manufacturers’ locations say something quite different.

For instance, some models are labeled “Made in China” and others in the Philippines. Indeed, most Vortex riflescope components are manufactured almost entirely in Asia. A closer look reveals that Vortex scopes are manufactured in the following locations:

  • Razor HD scopes are manufactured in Japan
  • Vipers are made in Philippines
  • Diamondbacks are made in Philippines made as well
  • Crossfire scopes are produced in China

It may come as a surprise that an American-owned company, located in the USA, sells riflescopes that have been manufactured overseas. But this is common in the optics industry where many trade name companies buy components from a manufacturer and then put their name on it.

In fact, very few optics companies engineer and build their riflescopes in-house these days. And while Vortex doesn’t make their products, they do have the expertise and are able to tell optics manufacturers exactly what they want. All of Vortex’s custom designed scopes are made according to their specifications.

The question of who makes vortex binoculars, spotting scopes and rifle scopes has one simple answer. Vortex does. And, Vortex is in Barneveld, Wisconsin, which, by the way, is a great area for investing in real estate. If you would like to learn more about investing in real estate check out Remetrics, which helps you analyze real estate investment deals.

Does It Matter Where Vortex Optics Are Made?
This is a controversial topic that has elicited many divided opinions. On one hand, you have companies that sell whatever they can outsource overseas and assemble cheaply. Such brands sometimes compromise on the quality of their scopes on the premise that they’re giving buyers lower prices. With most cheap riflescopes being made in Asia, this has led many scope buyers into thinking that the vast majority of Asian-made products are of poor quality, which is not entirely true.

On the other hand, there are optics companies like Vortex that do the engineering in-house and then demand manufacturers build what they want.

At the end of the day, what matters most is whether a riflescope works as advertised rather than where it was made. Are Vortex scopes any good? You bet:

So, if you’re apprehensive about Vortex scopes being made overseas, simply do your research and choose a model that other users have vouched for. The best part is that Vortex offers a lifetime VIP warranty for all their riflescopes. This lifetime warranty goes to show that Vortex is a reputable optics company that believes in the quality of their products and stand by what they put their name on.

—>>Click here to see discounted Vortex Rifle Scopes!<—-

Top 3 Best Scopes for 223 Caliber Rifles

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223 caliber

To save you time, we recommend the Nikon P-223 as the best 223 scope overall. It is tailor made for the 223.

The .223 Remington is a popular rifle cartridge that shares almost the same external size dimensions with the 5.56x45mm NATO round. It comes in different weights depending on the manufacturer, with options ranging from 40 to 90 grains.

Bullets weighing 38-55gr (2.5 to 3.6g) are mostly used with bolt-action varmint rifles that offer a 1-in-12 rate of twist. Heavier .223 Remington rounds of up to 69gr are mostly used on law enforcement or home defense semi-automatic rifles such as the Ruger Mini-14 and AR-15s, which are commonly found to have twist rates of 1-in-7, 1-in-8, or 1-in-9.

Preview
Best Budget Scope
Bushnell AR Optics, Drop Zone BDC Reticle Riflescope with Target Turrets and Side Parallax, Matte Black, 3-9x/40mm
Top Pick
Nikon P-223 BDC 600 Riflescope with Rapid Action Turret, Black, 4-12x40
Best Fixed Magnification
Primary Arms SLX Compact 5x36 Gen II Prism Scope - ACSS-5.56/5.45/.308
Title
Bushnell AR Optics, Drop Zone BDC Reticle Riflescope with Target Turrets and Side Parallax, Matte Black, 3-9x/40mm
Nikon P-223 BDC 600 Riflescope with Rapid Action Turret, Black, 4-12x40
Primary Arms SLX Compact 5x36 Gen II Prism Scope - ACSS-5.56/5.45/.308
Magnification
3-9x
4-12x
5x Fixed
Reticle
Drop Zone-223 BDC
BDC 600
ACSS Standard 5.56 / 5.45 / .308
Objective Diameter
40 mm
40 mm
36mm
Eye Relief
3.7 in
3.7 in
2.5 - 3.0 in
Tube Diameter
1 in
1 in
N/A
Weight
21 oz
17.5 oz
18.4 oz
More Information
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Best Budget Scope
Preview
Bushnell AR Optics, Drop Zone BDC Reticle Riflescope with Target Turrets and Side Parallax, Matte Black, 3-9x/40mm
Title
Bushnell AR Optics, Drop Zone BDC Reticle Riflescope with Target Turrets and Side Parallax, Matte Black, 3-9x/40mm
Magnification
3-9x
Reticle
Drop Zone-223 BDC
Objective Diameter
40 mm
Eye Relief
3.7 in
Tube Diameter
1 in
Weight
21 oz
More Information
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Top Pick
Preview
Nikon P-223 BDC 600 Riflescope with Rapid Action Turret, Black, 4-12x40
Title
Nikon P-223 BDC 600 Riflescope with Rapid Action Turret, Black, 4-12x40
Magnification
4-12x
Reticle
BDC 600
Objective Diameter
40 mm
Eye Relief
3.7 in
Tube Diameter
1 in
Weight
17.5 oz
More Information
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Best Fixed Magnification
Preview
Primary Arms SLX Compact 5x36 Gen II Prism Scope - ACSS-5.56/5.45/.308
Title
Primary Arms SLX Compact 5x36 Gen II Prism Scope - ACSS-5.56/5.45/.308
Magnification
5x Fixed
Reticle
ACSS Standard 5.56 / 5.45 / .308
Objective Diameter
36mm
Eye Relief
2.5 - 3.0 in
Tube Diameter
N/A
Weight
18.4 oz
More Information
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Target Penetration

Generally, the small and fragile .223 Remington rounds splinter on impact, allowing almost no penetration through the target. While this fragmentation and lack of penetration is a desirable trait when looking to incapacitate a target, it calls for precise shot placement.

The concern for insufficient penetration also leaves almost no room for error. Additionally, nothing increases accuracy when firing .223 Remington ammunition more than a good riflescope.

Long Range Shooting

If you’re looking to outfit a .223 caliber rifle with a scope, then you need to find one that can take full advantage of this round’s effective range.

The .223 Remington has a maximum effective range of up to 600 yards on a calm day. However, its progressive loss of velocity, and the effects of wind, greatly compromise its accuracy and effectiveness at such long distances.

When used within fairly short distances of 100-300 yards, this round can deliver lethal terminal ballistics with a greater level of accuracy.

With these facts in mind, it becomes easier to match your .223 Remington rifle with a scope that will provide ample magnification. However, there’s still a lot more to consider when selecting the best scope for 223 caliber rifles.

For instance, any good riflescope will need to be durable, versatile, and provide excellent light transmission as well as optical clarity. The following are three of the best .223 scopes that match these criteria while giving you a good range of price points from which to choose.

Nikon P223

Nikon P-223 BDC 600 Riflescope with Rapid Action Turret, Black, 4-12x40
Nikon P-223 BDC 600 Riflescope with Rapid Action Turret, Black, 4-12x40
  • Features the BDC 600 Reticle with open circle aiming points and hash marks from 100 to 600 yards
  • Make quick hand-turn ¼-inch @ 100 yard adjustments with Rapid Action Turrets
  • Made with Nikon's fully multicoated optics for maximum brightness and light transmission
  • Adjustments are made easy with Spring-Loaded Instant Zero-Reset Turrets
  • Optimized for use with Nikon's Spot On Ballistic Match Technology
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Nikon produces riflescopes designed for specific calibers in their P series line. As the name implies, the Nikon 4-12x40mm P-223 (Review) was precisely designed for the .223 Rem round. This feature-rich model packs a lot of value for a 223 BDC scope priced in the mid-range section.

For starters, its bullet drop compensator was developed while keeping in mind the trajectory of 55-grain .223/5.56 NATO rounds with polymer tips. The BDC reticle is remarkably easy to use and provides precise 1/4 MOA reticle adjustments. It also offers shooters a unique open circle aiming point with hash marks ranging from 100 to 600 yards.

If you’re using heavy recoiling .223 rounds, a lightweight rifle or shooting from tight angles, this scope offers a generous eye relief to protect your eyebrow from bumps. What’s more, it comes with a fixed parallax setting to eliminate errors at 100 yards.

In spite of being a budget scope, the Nikon P223 doesn’t lack anything when it comes to ruggedness. Its o-ring sealed nitrogen filled housing is resistant to fog, water, or hard knocks.

Bushnell AR Optics Drop Zone 223

Bushnell AR Optics, Drop Zone BDC Reticle Riflescope with Target Turrets and Side Parallax, Matte Black, 3-9x/40mm
Bushnell AR Optics, Drop Zone BDC Reticle Riflescope with Target Turrets and Side Parallax, Matte Black, 3-9x/40mm
  • Rifle scope 3 9x40mm
  • Fully multi coated optics with 3 9 x magnification
  • Compatitble with a wide variety of hunting rifles
  • Drop Zone-223 BDC Ballistic Reticle is calibrated for 55-62 grain, 223 REM/5.556 loads with aiming points out to 500 yards
  • Side focus parallax adjustment for adjustable long-range accuracy and a fast-focus eyepiece
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The Bushnell AR Optics with Drop Zone 223 BDC Reticle is versatile. Its multi-coated glass produce bright, clear images. Along with its 3-9x variable magnification, you should easily make precise shots at your .223’s maximum effective range.

Fine-tune your accuracy with the target turrets 1/4 MOA click value and fast-focus eyepiece. The side-mount turret is fully adjustable to eliminate parallax for long-range accuracy.

You don’t have to worry about defects. This scope is covered by Bushnell’s Ironclad Warranty. This lifetime warranty is completely transferable. You don’t even have to show proof of purchase.

Bushnell’s high quality optics are second only to their impressive build quality. The scope is made of anodized-finished, rust-proof aluminum alloy which was sealed with an O-ring and nitrogen purged to keep the internals clean and dry. This thing is tough and will take a beating.

Primary Arms 5X Prism Scope

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Primary Arms SLX Compact 5x36 Gen II Prism Scope - ACSS-5.56/5.45/.308
Primary Arms SLX Compact 5x36 Gen II Prism Scope - ACSS-5.56/5.45/.308
  • ACSS reticle has BDC and ranging out to 800 yards with 5.56 NATO, .223 Remington, 5.45x39mm, and .308 Winchester
  • Partially illuminated reticle is visible even in bright daylight with red or green illumination
  • Removable M1913 picatinny top rail for accessories or piggy-backed red dot sights
  • Tough prism scope is waterproof, fog resistant, and shockproof
  • Protected by a lifetime warranty
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Fans of simple, fixed magnification scopes will love the second generation Primary Arms 5x Prism Scope with ACSS Reticle. It is very easy to use.

Available models come with either .308 Win or .223 Rem reticles. The 223 scope with bullet drop compensator features what Primary Arms calls auto range technology, for fast target acquisition.

You have 5 red and 5 green brightness settings, which are illuminated by a CR2032 battery. It sports a fast focal plane reticle as well for easy aiming of moving targets. Thanks to the ACSS 5-10 mph wind holds, you can also account for bullet drift with this riflescope.

One place the this scope falls short is the warranty. Unlike the other scopes on our list with lifetime warranties. Primary Arms only offers a 3-year warranty.

When it comes to build quality, the Primary Arms ACSS does not disappoint. No worries about recoil or extreme weather. This scope is durable, featuring a shock, water, and fog proof housing that will hold up to the rigors of field use.

Conclusion

Remember that the best scope for 223 rifles is one that will allow you to zoom in on targets over a range of distances, built to last, and provides high quality optics. There are many other riflescopes that support .223 caliber rifles on the market besides those mentioned above. However, these three suggestions provide good choices for comparison if you don’t know where to start.

AR 15 Holographic Sights:The New Age of Long Distance Shooting

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Holographic Sights for your AR-15

AR-15 Holographic Sights

Holographic Sights are the latest in Long Distance Shooting for your AR-15. The sight uses laser technology and a computer to judge distance, wind speed, and other factors. These factors are displayed on the glass of the gun accessory.

Hunters love this information and the sight makes their sport easier. Military sharp shooter units have used this technology for the last 10 years. While many people will benefit from this technology, it is not for everyone.

I encourage you to check it out at your local gun shop before deciding if it is for your or not.

What are the Differences between Regular Scopes and Holographic Sights?

Simply put the holographic sights are much more accurate than regular scopes. You have a better view, a more accurate sight of your target and a focus within everything you are looking at through the view of your sight. While some will say the regular scopes are better than the holographic sights because essentially, “if it’s not broken, why fix it?”, many people will choose the more challenging aspect vs. the technology of a holographic sight.

Start with the best: EOTech Holographic Sights

You can’t find the best holographic sight for AR-15’s, shotguns, or any other firearm (like your .22 pistol) without checking out EOTech’s selection. They are the first name you will hear in the holographic site world for a reason.

Even with the basic 512 model, you get the A65/1 reticle pattern sight. Up close, use the 65 MOA outer ring for to acquire your target fast. At distance, the 1 MOA dot in the center gives you better precision than you get with your typical 2 MOA red dot sight.

For a few more dollars you have the 552, which adds night vision capability. Then XP2 and XP3 are more light-weight. All great sights in their own right. Still, the EOTech 512 is our pick for the best value holographic sight you can buy.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Holographic Sight

You want to consider several factors before you decide to buy your holographic sight, but to narrow it down; you want to keep your considerations to:

  • Price
  • Field of Sight, “How’s the view?”
  • Size of Scope
  • Amount of Use

With these considerations and understanding how it is to meet your needs, your choice of holographic sights will make your goals in hunting and target shooting met with ease.

In which Situations will this Scope be used?

From Hunters to Police SWAT teams, holographic sights have been used in many different situations. For example, it is used for:

  • Sport of Hunting
  • Sharp Shooter Competitions
  • Military Sharp Shooting Sniper Units
  • Protection (capturing a fugitive or someone running from being arrest)

Each situation is different, regardless of what it will be used for, the holographic sight will make your hunting experience better, the competition much more of a challenge for the other competitors who use regular scopes, or the capture of a fugitive a great motive to do better each time.

Holographic Sights have became more on trend in comparison to the regular scopes. Like I stated above, the sight uses laser technology and a computer to judge distance, wind speed, and other factors. These factors are important in every situation that it is used in. Hunters want this information. The military marine needs this information and technology. It is not for everyone but it could be for you!

—>>Check out the best prices on Amazon for Holographic Sights<<—

EOTech 552 Review: Night Vision Ready Holographic Sight

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The EOTech 552 with A65 reticle is a solid, night vision compatible, holographic sight. It’s an upgraded version of the 512 model, EOTech’s most popular holographic sight. Is this sight worth the money? Following along with this EOTech 552 Review as we dive into its features and how it stacks up against the competition. Check it out!

EOTech 552 Holographic Sight
EOTech 552 Holographic Sight
  • EOTECH 552.A65 - Holographic Weapon Sight in black with 68MOA ring & 1 MOA dot reticle
  • Night Vision Compatible - Works with all Gen 1-3 night vision devices
  • Mount - Compatible with both 1" Weaver and MIL-STD 1913 Rails
  • Water Resistant - The 552 is water resistant to 33ft (10m)
  • EOTECH HWS Prestige Warranty - Comes with 10 year limited warranty
Click For Price

Reticle

The EOtech 552 A65 1 Holographic Sight features the same A65/1 reticle pattern as the model 512. This is a good thing for a few reasons. Here is a breakdown of the A65’s 3 components:

  1. Tiny 1 MOA aiming dot in the center for precise aiming.
  2. Large 65 MOA outside ring for quick target acquisition.
  3. Four quadrant ticks at cardinal points for leveling.

It’s common for red dot sights to have a 2 MOA dot in the center. This larger dot is more noticeable than the 1 MOA of the 552 model. Meaning, you can line up the dot with your target faster.

The 552 takes a different approach. It uses the smaller center to get tighter groupings. About 1″ at 100 yards for the 552 vs 2″ grouping for a 2 MOA red dot. What you have lost in target acquisition speed you make up for tighter precision.

EOTech made up for the loss in acquisition speed by adding the 65 MOA outside circle. It’s very easy to see. Much easier than the 2 MOA dot. So, at closer ranges, your eye will pick up the target much faster.

With the A65/1 reticle you get the best of both worlds. Pick up your target faster at close range, and more precise targeting at long ranges.

Field of View & Brightness

This sight has a field of view of 30 yards at a 4” inch eye relief and features 30 scrolling brightness settings, ten of which are for night vision usage.

The brightness adjustment range is 146,000:1 at its brightest and lowest, respectively. With the NV switch engaged, night vision compatibility is 1280:1.

Weight, Dimensions & Build

The sight itself has dimensions of 5.6” x 2” x 2.5” with a window dimension of 1.2” x 0.85”, and weighs in at 11.5 ounces. The front window is made of 1/8” inch solid glass while the rear window is composed of 3/16” inches of shatter-resistant laminate.

The display window’s optical surfaces have anti-glare coating.

This EOtech sight was specifically designed for close combat and versatility. It is made of aluminum and is easy to mount without tools thanks to its knobbed bolt.

Battery

The EOtech 552’s battery will last 1,000 continuous hours of nominal use via lithium batteries and 600 continuous hours of use via alkaline (at brightness setting 12). The power source uses two 1.5-volt AA batteries and accepts lithium, alkaline, and rechargeable batteries.

When you fire this thing up, it automatically flashes a battery check indicator reticle.

Weatherproofing

It’s waterproof and submersible up to 33 feet while also sealed for fog-proof internal optics. This is another upgrade from the 512, which is only waterproof to 10 feet.

All electronics used in this device are encased in a shock absorbent resin.

While in operation, it can withstand a temperature range of -20 to 150 degrees Fahrenheit, but while in storage, the sight can handle a temperature range of -40 to 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

Parallax Free

The optics use parrallax-free transmission holography for minimal work to get a clear shot. The EOtech 552 has a 1x magnification to get even more target accuracy.

EOTech 552 vs 512

Preview
EOTECH 512 Holographic Weapon Sight
EOTECH 552 Holographic Weapon Sight
Title
EOTech 512
EOTech 552
Weight
11.5 oz
11.5 oz
Length | Width | Height
5.6” x 2” x 2.5”
5.6” x 2” x 2.5”
Battery Life (Lithium)
1,000 hours
1,000 hours
Night Vision Ready?
Water Proofing
10 ft
33 Ft
More Information
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Preview
EOTECH 512 Holographic Weapon Sight
Title
EOTech 512
Weight
11.5 oz
Length | Width | Height
5.6” x 2” x 2.5”
Battery Life (Lithium)
1,000 hours
Night Vision Ready?
Water Proofing
10 ft
More Information
Click For Price
Preview
EOTECH 552 Holographic Weapon Sight
Title
EOTech 552
Weight
11.5 oz
Length | Width | Height
5.6” x 2” x 2.5”
Battery Life (Lithium)
1,000 hours
Night Vision Ready?
Water Proofing
33 Ft
More Information
Click For Price

The 552 and 512 are great for close quarter battle or ranges out to 600 yards (with magnifier). Both EOtech products mount on Weaver or Picatinny rails. They both run on AA alkaline or lithium batteries.

The major advantage of the 552 over the 512 model is night vision compatibility. The better weather sealing is nice, but you, unless you know you will need it, weather resistance of the 512 is fine.

If you will be using night vision in the future go with 552. It will definitely be worth the additional cost.

Conclusion

All of these great features make the EOtech 552.A65 to be a formidable weapon sight in the right hands. After all, this sight has been standardized by the DEA, ATF, and FBI SWAT team and has been used as a top choice of military units like the Stryker Brigade and 3rd Infantry.

The 552 holds its own in the market. The cost of this rugged sight is well worth the features it boasts as a high end product. Whether used for hunting targets at the range or game in the wilds, this sight will help its users keep their aim true regardless of experience.

EOTech 512 Review: The Tactical Holographic Weapons Sight

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The world of holographic red dot sights is an exciting one. One look at the EOTech 512 and you will see why. Its drool-worthy A65 reticle will get you on target fast – without sacrificing precision. Pair it with a 3-5x magnifier to hit your target where you want at most distances.

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EOTech 512 Holographic Sight
EOTech 512 Holographic Sight
  • EOTECH 512.A65 - Holographic Weapon Sight in Back with 68MOA ring & 1 MOA dot reticle
  • Mount - Compatible with both 1" Weaver and MIL-STD 1913 Rails
  • Adjustable Brightness - The 512 has 20 brightness settings for use in any lighting scenario
  • Water Resistant - The 512 is water resistant to 10 feet (3m)
  • EOTECH HWS Prestige Warranty - Comes with 10 year limited warranty
Click For Price

This sight fits in at the lower end of EOTech’s holographic sight product line. Not to say the 512 isn’t a great sight – it is. It just doesn’t have some of the bells and whistles the others have. Some sights are smaller and lighter than the 512. Others are night-vision ready. If you don’t feel like paying for these extra features, the 512 is a fantastic sight at a solid price.

Let’s break the 512 down feature-by-feature:

Reticle

The EOTech 512 A65 features a 1 MOA aiming dot inside a 65 MOA circle reticle. Some versions come with the 68 MOA circle reticle. This is known as A65/1 reticle pattern, which is made up of 3 parts:

  • 1 MOA dot centered on the outside ring.
  • Large outside ring with 65 MOA (Minutes of Angle)
  • 4 quadrant ticks at the North, South, East and West points of the outside ring

The 1 MOA dot is about half the diameter of the 2 MOA dot found in your typical red dot sight. The smaller dot gives you more precise targeting – pretty handy at longer-ranges. However, it’s not as easy to find as the 2 MOA dot. This slows down your target acquisition a bit.

This is where the outer ring becomes important. It’s a large circle, which makes it very easy to see, and gets you on-target fast. This is a great optic for close quarter combat situations you would expect in law enforcement.

It’s the best of both worlds with the outer circle for fast target acquisition and the 1 MOA center dot for precision. You should be set up to 200 yards. Add in a magnifier and you could take that out to 600 yards.

Field of View

It has a field of view of 30 yards at a 4” eye relief so this offers a great visibility.  The brightness range starts at 110,000 at its brightest to 1 at the lowest. There are 20 different settings so you can control the brightness at any time according to your needs.

Night Vision

The 512 isn’t night vision compatible. However, its big brother, the EOTech 552, does work with night vision. If night vision compatibility is a must-have feature for you, the 552 is a worthwhile upgrade.

Weight & Dimensions

First, we will talk about the size of this model. The dimensions are 5.4”X2”X2.5” inches and weighs 10.1 ounces. The optical surfaces have an anti-glare coating and the window dimensions were 1.20” X 0.85” inches and the front window material was made from 1/8” solid glass and the rear window is made of shatter resistant laminate that is 3/16” thick. The unit itself is made from strong aluminum hood assembly and a very easy to used knobbed mountain kit.

Battery Life

It supports lithium and alkaline batteries. Go with lithium whenever possible. Lithium battery life is over 1,000+ continuous hours at nominal setting 12 and 600 hours using alkaline batteries. When you turn on your model 512, which takes two AA batteries, it will automatically show you how much battery you have left. It’s good practice to change your batteries regularly, even if you haven’t used your sight. Then you know it will work when you need it.

Water Proof and Fog Proof

The EOTech 512 is waterproof and is submersible up to 10 feet, so if you ever drop your it in a puddle, you can be rest assured that the scope will keep on working.  It can also able to withstand temperatures from -40 to 140 degrees F.

It also has internal fog proof optics to help keep fog to a minimum so you are looking through clear glass – no matter the weather.

Parallax Free

The optics are parallax free so you will never have to center your scope and you will always get a clear shot of the item you are going to shoot at.  The magnification level on this unit is 1X so you will be able to get even closer to whatever you are shooting at whether it is an animal or target.  You will be able to rail mount your scope onto any hand gun or shot gun with ease and onto interfaces to 1” Picatinny or Weaver Rail.

EOTech 512 vs 552

Preview
EOTECH 512 Holographic Weapon Sight
EOTECH 552 Holographic Weapon Sight
Title
EOTech 512
EOTech 552
Weight
11.5 oz
11.5 oz
Length | Width | Height
5.6” x 2” x 2.5”
5.6” x 2” x 2.5”
Battery Life (Lithium)
1,000 hours
1,000 hours
Night Vision Ready?
Water Proofing
10 ft
33 Ft
More Information
Click For Price
Click For Price
Preview
EOTECH 512 Holographic Weapon Sight
Title
EOTech 512
Weight
11.5 oz
Length | Width | Height
5.6” x 2” x 2.5”
Battery Life (Lithium)
1,000 hours
Night Vision Ready?
Water Proofing
10 ft
More Information
Click For Price
Preview
EOTECH 552 Holographic Weapon Sight
Title
EOTech 552
Weight
11.5 oz
Length | Width | Height
5.6” x 2” x 2.5”
Battery Life (Lithium)
1,000 hours
Night Vision Ready?
Water Proofing
33 Ft
More Information
Click For Price

The major advantage of the 512 compared to the 552 model is price. The 552 adds night vision and better waterproofing. A signification upgrade for sure. But, not worth the extra expense, unless you think you will need it.

Conclusion

As you can see, speed and versatility makes the EOtech 512.A65 Holographic Sight a great choice for gun owners. It’s a solid performer at close-quarters, 100 yards, 200 yards, or even up to 600 yards with magnifier.

The 512 is, a popular choice among among law enforcement and military personnel. You will amazed at how this little unit can help you hunt better whether you are a novice or an experienced hunter.

Related Posts

Vortex Spitfire 3x Prism Scope Review

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Vortex Spitfire 3x prism

The Vortex Spitfire 3x Prism Scope w/ EBR-556B is a great addition to a hunter’s bag. This 3X rifle scope is perfect for shooting targets that are within a close to medium distance. What sets this scope apart is that it combines excellent optical features, easy handling and a rugged construction all in one package.

Features and Benefits

A hunter’s success in the field largely depends on the quality of his or her rifle scope. With the Vortex Spitfire 3X EBR-556B Prism Scope, you can be assured of consistent point of aim at all times.

  • Aim Better

The scope’s 3X lens brings targets that are 100 yards away closer. It is has a full multi-coating finish to achieve less light loss and glare. The lens also has several coatings with anti-reflective properties, which are designed to increase light transmission.

  • Sharp Optics and Precision

This Vortex scope features a unique prism-like design. As a result, it can be used with or without illumination. The Dual Ring Tactical (DRT) illuminated reticle etched on the prism helps to deliver sharp optics with consistent precision. You’ll also love the adjustable brightness feature that comes with the scope. It offers red/green illumination choices of up to five intensity levels, thus making it perfect for hunting in different conditions.

  • Easy to Handle, Lightweight, and Versatile

The battery life for the scope is 250 and 3,000 hours at maximum and minimum brightness respectively, and unlike other scopes that come with multiple parts, the Vortex Spitfire 3X Scope features a single piece chassis.

Weighing only 12.2 ounces, the scope is quite lightweight and compact. An additional feature that makes it quite easy to handle is the adjustable mounting base. By default, the scope comes mounted at a co-witness height of 40.4 mm between the optic center and base surface. You can remove the mount riser to reach a lower mount height of 30 mm if desired. In addition, you can use the scope with both eyes open thanks to its 2.8 inches eye relief range.

  • Withstands Shock, Fog, and Water

The icing on the cake for the Vortex Spitfire 3X shockproof Prism Scope is of course its rugged design. It has an O-ring seal that protects interior components from moisture. The materials have been strengthened with nitrogen purging gas to ensure a fog-proof and waterproof build. In addition, the rugged construction is shockproof and can withstand recoil as well as impact from falls. This rifle scope is designed with durability in mind since it features a hard-anodized, low glare, mate finish.

Is This a Good Purchase?

The prism-based design, 3 X magnifications and parallax-free lens of the Vortex Spitfire EBR-556B Prism Scope bring distant objects closer without compromising on optical quality. Therefore, if fast target acquisition in close to medium range is a priority, then this scope is a good purchase since it will make you a better hunter.

UUQ C4-12X50 Rifle Scope Review

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UUQ C4-12X50 Rifle Scope Review

Nowadays, firearm enthusiasts and hunters alike are lining up to get their hands on a decent optical sighting device for their guns. Simplicity is a wonderful thing when hunting for elusive game. Being able to have a red dot on the target significantly decreases the chance of missing a definitive shot. Plus, when a scope has magnification, the target is easier to see, giving even older eyes an advantage in the wild.

So when you are in the market for the ideal hunting scope, what comes to mind? For many, the ultimate choice is the UUQ C4-12×50 Rifle Scope with a Dual Illuminated Reticle and 4 Tactical Holographic Dot Sight.  It is a truly well-matched scope for any rifle, because the clarity and accuracy is unparalleled, regardless of the target’s speed.

The Specifics

Engineered by UUQ, a top brand in scopes, the C4-12×50 brings an amazing array of features that will simplify hunting and make it more rewarding.

General Information:

  • Zoom: 4-12x
  • Goal lens: 50mm/1.97in
  • Exit pupil: 12.5-4.2mm/0.49-0.17in
  • Field of vision (m/100m/ft/1000yd): 9.7-3.3/29.1-9.9 (or 15.8 at 100m)
  • Transmission: 90%
  • Effect point correction per click (mm/100m): 7in/100yd: 0.25. ¼ MOA audible click stops.
  • Objective filter thread: M52x0.75
  • Length: 323mm
  • Weight: 750g

Other Features:

  • Tubeless design with 33mm reflex lens aperture
  • Multi-Reticle (4 patterns) or Variable dot (4 sizes)
  • Parallax corrected and eye relief (3-3.4 inches)
  • Built-in mount rail, so there is no need to re-zero when mounting to a different sight
  • 3V lithium battery for unparalleled battery life
  • Fingertip turrets
  • 100% waterproof and shockproof

Why We Love It

The C4-12×50 rifle scope has a lot to make a hunter smile. The high optical clearness at 4 to 12-times zoom and the 50mm objective diameter gives you room for fast acquisition of close quarter or fast moving targets.

How so? The tubeless design has a wide field of vision and intense magnification (4-12x zoom). This allows for normal shooting as well as firing at moving targets. Because transitioning through various magnifications and distance is so smooth (with zoom never losing focus), your target will never be out of sight. What truly separates the C4-12×50 from the crow is the Dual Illuminated Range Finding Graph reticle. Using this piece means have unlimited brightness control aids for finding targets in both strong sunlight and dark conditions—through green dimming or red brightening modes. Transitions in any context are seamless.

Installation of this scope on your favorite rifle is also hassle-free. Just be sure to use the correct size gun (see cons). Mounting to your rifle is easy when using the built-in 22mm rail that makes it compatible with 11mm and 22mm rails (think Weaver or Picatinny). Should you use this scope on an AR15, for example, you will receive virtually no recoil.

Additionally, the laser is detachable and has a tube diameter of 26mm. The laser can fit on any standard 22mm mount rail. The maximum output is <5mw and the wavelength is 625 to 660 N/m, which is more than enough for recreational hunting.

You know that wherever you find yourself on the hunt, the UUQ C4-12×50 is up for the challenge too. The scope has filled with dry nitrogen, is fog proof, shockproof, and is coated in a high-quality black matte finish to ensure it is 100% waterproof. The manufacturer is so certain of the scope’s durability that UUQ offers a 30-Day Money Back Satisfaction Guarantee and a 12-month warranty. Should anything happen, the customer service is phenomenal. You should have no problems getting answers and a replacement.

When you order the scope, you get the following extras:

  • A user manual
  • 3 AG13 batteries
  • 2 CR2032 batteries
  • 3 Allen keys
  • A lens cap
  • 1 cleaning cloth
  • Aside from the holographic sight, scope, and laser.

What We Do Not Love

All decent equipment does come with some cons. The UUQ C4-12×50 rifle scope only has a few.

The weight of 750g and length (323mm) of the scope may come of concern to some hunters. For example, the length of the scope makes it incompatible with a .223, even if the rail is correct. Pair that with the weight, and the scope may get slightly cumbersome during long hauls.

Sometimes people receive lasers that are dysfunctional. This is usually fixed by contacting UUQ customer service for a replacement. Afterwards, the tactical rifle scope works exactly as it should.

In conclusion, the UUQ C4-12×50 Rifle Scope with a Dual Illuminated Reticle and 4 Tactical Holographic Dot Sight is an ideal choice for hunters seeking accuracy and clarity when hunting. The efficiency of the zoom, matched with the wide range of view, gives you an unhindered look at the target and your surroundings. Given the amount of extras and the unbeatable durability, the UUQ C4-12×50 Rifle Scope is a sure-fire winner that will get you a prize every time.

The Four Standard Rifle Shooting Positions Explained

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4 standard rifle shooting positions

When you take ahold of your hunting rifle, how do you hold it? If you were asked to show the 4 common shooting positions, would you be able to adequately explain each one? Some of you may be nodding your heads but others will need some of these explained. Still whether you know what to do when holding a rifle or not, here are some pro tips to make each position work more efficiently for you.

Prone

prone rifle shooting position

The classic position with the best stability. Lying down on your stomach behind the rifle gives you very high accuracy. That said, the low angle may limit the view of the target, depending on the environment. It is also not an answer position to get into on spur of the moment.

To get into the perfect prone position, lie down with your body pointing 10-20 degrees to the right or left of the target (depending on your dominant hand). A more modern update the prone position even calls for the body to be more behind the firearm with your strong-side leg slightly bent (think Figure 4). Keep the elbows grounded, with the supporting elbow right beneath the rifle. Your head should be level with the ground. Snug the butt of the rifle into your shoulder then establish a good spot weld.

Pro tip: Use a sling or the “hasty sling” method

When using a sling, the rifle is completely supported by your arm, which in turn is supported by the ground.

Sitting

sitting rifle shooting position

Although prone is by far the steadiest and is good for beginners, it is also the least used in real life simply because vegetation and other obstacle get in the way. The sitting position offers clearance for low to medium height obstacles. There are a few variations on how to sit, so you can choose the one style that suits you best.

Open Leg

This variation is done by sitting with your body facing to either side of the target (about 30-45 degrees)—again this is dependent on your dominant side. Extend your legs, keeping the knees slightly bent. Let your feet be about shoulder width apart. Your elbows will generally rest on the flesh above the knee or on them.

Cross Leg

While generally taking the same position as mentioned above, you alter the comfort level by crossing one leg over the other into a loose Indian style pose. Optionally, you can cross at the ankles, allowing the knees to be slightly more open.

When seated properly, the sights are in alignment with the target. The shooting hand should have to do nothing but hold the pistol grip and pull the trigger.

Kneeling

kneeling rifle shooting position

The middle position of sitting and standing. Getting into kneeling position is easy. Your weak-side knee and foot point at the target when crouching, and you supporting elbow is propped up onto that knee. Do not rest your elbow directly atop the knee, as it can slip off.

Your dominant-side knee is pointing outward at about 90 degrees. Depending on flexibility, you can sit on the dominant leg or sit on the heel of a flexed foot.

Standing

standing rifle shooting position

The least stable position but oftentimes necessary. Only when there is no other option or the vegetation is too high do you stand. The proper position is achieved by resting the support elbow (weak side) against that side’s hip, which is thrusted outward.

Wrap your supporting hand into a hasty sling. Support your weak side by pointing that side’s foot toward the target. Be sure you stock fit is perfect. You need to have your cheek firm against the stock. Keep the shooting elbow horizontal so that you get better leverage. After that, try to isometrically contract the chest muscles for stability upon firing.

Conclusion

There you have it—the four standard rifle shooting positions explained! How many of them did you know? Hopefully, whether you knew them already or not, you gleaned something helpful from this article.

Review: Leupold 115387 Mark AR MOD 1 Rifle Scope

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If you’re looking for a scope that will help you shoot better at long distance targets but cannot afford those ultra expensive high-end models, then the Leupold 115387 Mark AR MOD 1 Rifle Scope may be something that will interest you. Designed by Leupold, one of the leading manufacturers in telescoping sights, this scope will satisfy the demands of the most exacting hunters. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at some of its pros and cons, as well as give you a run down on some of the scope’s best features.

Cluttered Reticle with Illuminated Center Dot
One of the best features of this rifle scope is its reticle. Slightly cluttered, the reticle features an illuminated center dot which does most of the hunting for you. When activated, the center dot makes it really easy for you to pick your target and quickly make your shots.

Equipped with Multicoated 4 Lens 
The worst enemy you can face when out hunting is glare. Because light tends to reflect off the surface of lenses, it reduces image quality and makes it difficult for you to hit your targets with accuracy. In a bid to overcome this problem, the Leupold engineers developed their own proprietary superior lens coating system which is utilized in the Leupold 115387 riflescope. The scope’s multicoated 4 lens keeps image quality pristine by increasing the amount of light that reaches your eye, and minimizes the reflection of light on the outer eyepiece. Therefore, you’ll have a clear view of your targets and surroundings at all times.

Krypton/Argon Waterproof Layer
Another Leupold proprietary technology used by this scope is the 2nd generation Argon/Krypton gas blend waterproofing technology. This gas blend technology is superior to the commonly used dry Nitrogen waterproofing technology in two ways.

For starters, Krypton/Argon molecules are larger than nitrogen molecules, meaning they can sustain their attributes over a broader temperature range. This therefore means that the Leupold 115387 riflescope remains waterproof at all times since the Krypton/Argon molecules are resistant to diffusion and leaking. Secondly, the Krypton/Argon makes the Leupold 115387 Rifle Scope resistant to thermal shock.

Pros

  • The rifle scope is lightweight and will not weigh down your rifle
  • Adjustment-making is very easy when you go with this scope
  • Enables you to shoot accurately over distances ranging from 100 to 600 yards (and even more if you’re highly skilled)
  • Turrets are clearly marked with a specific bullet weight and velocity
  • Runs on batteries that are easy to find
  • The reticle’s illuminated center dot lets you know when you’re at minimum and maximum illumination
  • Uses a quantum optical system which maximizes light transition
  • Offers a magnification range of 1.5x to 4x

Cons

  • The magnification adjustment ring is a little stiff
  • With a minimum magnification of 1.5x, the scope makes it a little difficult to transition between close targets

What’s In the Box?

  • 1 Mark AR MOD 1-115387 Leupold Rifle Scope, matte black
  • Owner’s instruction manual

Consumer Ratings
With a rating of 4.7 out of 5 on Amazon, most of the 20 reviewers have stated that the Mark AR MOD 1-115387 Leupold Rifle Scope happens to be a really good product. Very little complaints have been raised, which speaks volumes about the scope’s performance. To sum it up, the majority of reviewers agree that the rifle scope offers excellent value with a solid and compact construction.

Conclusion
Overall, the Leupold 115387 Mark AR MOD 1 Rifle Scope is a high reliable piece of equipment. Not only is this scope cheap and easy to use, it also offers you a great magnification range. And best of all, the rifle scope makes it easy for you to accurately hit targets that are far off. If you’re planning to hunt game from a distance, the Leupold 115387 Mark AR MOD 1 would make an ideal choice.