Rifle Scopes Back Up Optical Sights - Video

Lowlight

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  • Apr 12, 2001
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    Base of the Rockies
    www.snipershide.com
    <span style="font-style: italic">This is repost, but I want to state up front, that anyone attempting to cause an issue between manufacturers, or this site will be removed and permanently as this isn't about <span style="text-decoration: underline"> "who's mount"</span> you use, but the fact we can be better served with a back up optical sight <span style="font-weight: bold">(BUOS)</span> over iron sights -- specifically on a precision rifle or DM type rifle.</span>

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    GDI, RCOM, ACOG, Trijicon, AR10, SR25, M110, Mk11, Rifles Only, Sniper&apos;s Hide, nightforce, Optics, Tactical</p>Veeple Interactive Video</noembed></embed></object>

    As a background for this, I have extensive experience with systems like the Mk11 Mod 0 & 2 and the M110 as currently deployed. We see both are equipped with some type of BUIS and I personally feel, not only are they neglected, but they are not up to the standard of the system or the mission. Sure they will work during daylight hours in a pinch, but most of their missions are not during daylight hours. Also, I would like to add we hear stories of guys tripping coming out of the helicopters at the start of a mission, imagine a fall that doesn't hurt the operator, but instead hurts the scope on one of these systems. He is there to provide precision fire on select targets and if he is required to immediately go to BUIS at the start of a mission, he risks a lot. So the ability to go to a back up optical sight that is small, durable, and holds zero would be an improvement over the current iron sights option.

    For this video I chose the ACOG because, 1.) it is currently in most of these guys inventory, 2.) it's available with a 308 BDC reticle, 3.) it's small and can fit in a pouch on their belt, 4.) because of the mounting options available. As well see most engagements are within 400m, but with the need to potentially engage targets further, especially ones partially concealed having an optic, even at 4X is much better than needing to rely on eye sight alone.

    Also, while I have one, in TX, and not here to show, these guys have a small plastic 1/2" thumb break wrench available. It's about 1 1/2" square and weights nothing. It can easily be used to knock the primary optic off.

    Again, not to belabor the mount issue, if your favorite does what you ask of it, great, go with it, what I chose is my business and a product of my opinion, yours may vary, which is also fine.

    I think there is some merit to explore this more, as a more permanent solution to back up the primary optical sights currently used.
     
    Re: Back Up Optical Sights - Video

    Why the ACOG over something like a small variable power optic? Is it just a matter of compactness and ruggedness?
     
    Re: Back Up Optical Sights - Video

    Yes, the size and ruggedness are important,

    The size is definitely key, but the durability is also important as it will likely be stored for extended periods. Something with larger and potentially exposed external adjustments has a higher risk of movement. And scopes like you are talking about aren't nearly as small and the erector system is not nearly as strong.
     
    Re: Back Up Optical Sights - Video

    Man,

    I can really see this idea having a strong application for hunting as well. I mean bringing a back up rifle is something I've always done, but having the optic in my pack that would consistently return to zero is a great idea. The back-up stick usually sits back at the camp/truck/cabin/etc. I can't imagine how pissed I'd be if my optic failed or broke on opening morning and ruined they days hunt. Not to mention the thought of just having a back-up scope. Who the hell wants to have to dial-in another scope anywhere near the area your hunting in.

    I wonder if GDI already has, or is planning on the same type of mount that could be used with a compact USO optic, or am I just not getting it. I've never used a ACOG and have no idea how they mount.

    -Pat
     
    Re: Back Up Optical Sights - Video

    <div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Lowlight</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I would recommend experimenting with mounts for that application. </div></div>

    LOL, I wish I had the money to "experiment" with multiple mounts.

    Maybe you can pull some strings for me and and get a bunch of mounts and I'll invest the ammo and time and do the test?
     
    Re: Back Up Optical Sights - Video

    laugh.gif
     
    Re: Back Up Optical Sights - Video

    speaking to the size of the ACOG specifically, when you consider the next scope up size wise is something around the NXS 1-4 (8"+ long and 1lb +) it makes ALOT of sense as a backup.

    i just switched to the NXS compact from an ACOG, and im surprised how much bigger a full feature scope is, even the smallest ones. the size increase doesnt bother me since it suits my needs better but now i know first hand how handy the prismatic design is for shaving off bulk.
     
    Re: Back Up Optical Sights - Video

    Just watched the video and am liking the idea. My AR's (5.56)have BUIS in case my red dot fails but I like the idea of having an ACOG (or similiar) for a more precission based rig.
    Very good video review Frank! And I can speak from experience of the ACOGs durability. After humping my issued M4 around for about 3 months (from one range time to the next) with it getting thrown around it maintained zero.
    I'll have to experiment with my personal ACOG on my ARs when I get home from the sand box. I will definitely consider using it as a backup. Thanks Frank!