Optic For The Sandbox
- Thread starter QOR
- Start date
I'm not an expert, but it seems the Short Dot is the standard - expensive yes, but there's no real substitute at the ranges you describe, with a likelyhood of close range 'interruptions'. It's much different for you than it is for me, my scope breaks, I pack up and go home, that's not an option for you. If you can stretch for the S&B I'd say it's probably money well spent, you can always sell it to someone on the next Roto, but I doubt you will, guys seem to get really attached to them.
canucklehead
CGN Ultra frequent flyer
- Location
- Calgary, AB
In order of preference...
1. S&B Short Dot
2. ACOG TA31F (chevron)
3. SpectreDR
If my arse was on the line, money wouldn't be the top limiting factor. I had a SpectreDR, and moved back to the ACOG. DR was a touch heavy. There were concerns about durability in previous generations of it, (and some say even now), but I found it to be a nice optic. Ability to hold zero (same mount (essentially) as the Elcan) is the main concern.
1. S&B Short Dot
2. ACOG TA31F (chevron)
3. SpectreDR
If my arse was on the line, money wouldn't be the top limiting factor. I had a SpectreDR, and moved back to the ACOG. DR was a touch heavy. There were concerns about durability in previous generations of it, (and some say even now), but I found it to be a nice optic. Ability to hold zero (same mount (essentially) as the Elcan) is the main concern.
Nobody who has used one in that environment has reported any issues that I'm aware of, that includes at least two members here who are very experienced in that part of the world, both of whom were very enthusiastic about it's performance.
S&B Short Dot is always a nice choice and with mil pricing its not that much more than some of the other options listed. There's a couple 5.56 BDCs available for it but I'm not convinced that too many guys are spinning turrets under fire.
Another option would be an Aimpoint T-1 Micro with the 3x magnifier behind it. Save some weight when you don't need the magnification on the weapon itself.
If you're stuck on a ACOG you might want to look into an offset T-1 Micro mount for close in work.
Another option would be an Aimpoint T-1 Micro with the 3x magnifier behind it. Save some weight when you don't need the magnification on the weapon itself.
If you're stuck on a ACOG you might want to look into an offset T-1 Micro mount for close in work.
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I agree with Homer76 and think you should buy any ACOG. I like really like the TA31-RCO model but own a TA01 and I'm happy with it too. If you are going to be doing a lot of CQB work some guys put on the Dr Optic red dot but it's only useful out to 25 M or so. Personally I shoot instinctively until I get out to at least 15 M when making body shots. A Dr Optic could be very useful for precision shooting at ranges within 25 m (such as hostage rescue shots).
I'm also testing an Elcan specterDR for my agency. I'm firing it tomorrow but right out of the box I'm not very impressed with it in comparison to the ACOG. It's too heavy (heavy like a tank and I really dislike the reticle pattern. I'll post again after I shoot my c-8 with it tomorrow.
I'm also testing an Elcan specterDR for my agency. I'm firing it tomorrow but right out of the box I'm not very impressed with it in comparison to the ACOG. It's too heavy (heavy like a tank and I really dislike the reticle pattern. I'll post again after I shoot my c-8 with it tomorrow.
canucklehead
CGN Ultra frequent flyer
- Location
- Calgary, AB
Agree on mounting a DocOp, but disagree about 25m. It's good to at least 100 for combat situations.
4 power on a combat rifle is more then enough. Once you start to take into account the degredation of fine motor skill etc there is no way you will be making effective use of anythim more then that anyhow. Plus the C6, C9, etc are gonna do the bulk of the work at 300/400 meters anyhow.
The 1-4 power stuff gives you more versatility the you will likely be able to make use of anyhow. The new Elcan would be nice but the history of this optic really makes me question it so when my life is on the line there is no way I would use anything Elcan by choice.
Acogs are nice but I would still like to have the ability to adjust to 1 power for the majority of engagements which will likely be well under 100m.
The 1-4 power stuff gives you more versatility the you will likely be able to make use of anyhow. The new Elcan would be nice but the history of this optic really makes me question it so when my life is on the line there is no way I would use anything Elcan by choice.
Acogs are nice but I would still like to have the ability to adjust to 1 power for the majority of engagements which will likely be well under 100m.
Looks like this thread was busy while I was gone.
After a massive debate I have decided to select the ELCAN SpecterOS 3.0. If you're unfamiliar with this unit you can Google Armament Technology, they are the "chief distributors for ELCAN".
Some of the factors I had to consider while making my decision;
1. I required a high quality milspec optic
2. I required something that would provide me with some magnification as well as rapid aiming using the Bindon Aiming Concept
3. I'm using the Canadian issued C8 carbine that has "Weaver" style rails....not 1913 spec like the rest of the world.
4. Most stuff is either impossible to get in Canada (ACOG) or prohibitively expensive (S&B)
So those of you who know me are well aware of my hatred of the C-79, as a result of this I was somewhat apprehensive about another ELCAN product. I decided to take the chance and order one. This site rocks, firstly, it comes well packaged in a box and bubble wrap. The instructions are simple and easy to understand, it also comes with one CR-123 battery for immediate use. I requested and ARD and it came installed on the unit, saving a few minutes of work. The workmanship appears to be of a high standard and the finish is thorough and even. As with all Elcan products the glass is of a high quality and the illuminated reticle is crisp and bright. On the whole I'm pleased with this product and I can't wait to get some rounds down range. Watch and shoot.......full on review with pics to follow.
After a massive debate I have decided to select the ELCAN SpecterOS 3.0. If you're unfamiliar with this unit you can Google Armament Technology, they are the "chief distributors for ELCAN".
Some of the factors I had to consider while making my decision;
1. I required a high quality milspec optic
2. I required something that would provide me with some magnification as well as rapid aiming using the Bindon Aiming Concept
3. I'm using the Canadian issued C8 carbine that has "Weaver" style rails....not 1913 spec like the rest of the world.
4. Most stuff is either impossible to get in Canada (ACOG) or prohibitively expensive (S&B)
So those of you who know me are well aware of my hatred of the C-79, as a result of this I was somewhat apprehensive about another ELCAN product. I decided to take the chance and order one. This site rocks, firstly, it comes well packaged in a box and bubble wrap. The instructions are simple and easy to understand, it also comes with one CR-123 battery for immediate use. I requested and ARD and it came installed on the unit, saving a few minutes of work. The workmanship appears to be of a high standard and the finish is thorough and even. As with all Elcan products the glass is of a high quality and the illuminated reticle is crisp and bright. On the whole I'm pleased with this product and I can't wait to get some rounds down range. Watch and shoot.......full on review with pics to follow.
What is your job in your next deployment? I only ask because almost everyone I know who has been there done that is engaging @50m or less. The optic you have chosen will be good for the odd target at range but if you find yourself in the "typical" environment this may be a bad choice. I would almost suggest the issued EOTECH. Keep in mind we're talking about your life and the lives of those around you who are at stake, guys like Big Red know what they're talking about I would not pass up his advice lightly.
Cheers,
Sean
Cheers,
Sean
Thanks tips, I'm well aware that my life is at stake.....My requirements are specific for several reasons. I have been present for several AAR's from the last roto for my position, all recommend intermediate capability.
I had set my mind on ACOG, but they're impossible to find and hit and miss with weaver rails. I'll be bringing the issued EoTech as well as an Aimpoint as backup.
This sight will in fact be effective at close range....it's not an EoTech or an Aimpoint but it works quite well with the Bindon aiming concept. Elcan's proprietary rapid aiming feature is pretty with two eyes.
I'm not a guy that needs hard suggestions, I'm experienced enough to make this decision on my own.....I've owned half of the optics discussed in this thread, I was just looking for some other perspectives.
