Rifle Scopes eo tech, AA or CR123

[wisam]

Looking at an eo-tech for my AR. Debating between the CR123 model and the 512 (aa model). I'm not really concerned about leaving space on the rail for other accessories, but weight is a concern. Most of my electronics at home run on AA batteries so it would make life simplier to have an AA powered sight, but from the looks of it, I wouldn't have to change the batteries much.

Although it would mostly live on my AR, I may temporairily move it to my hunting rifle (I have family in TX and would like to come down and hog hunt some time), or even the 870 for shooting clays.

I also do some extened solo hunting in AK, and have considered bringing an eo-tech as a pocket sized backup as my hunting rifle is a bolt gun with a 1 piece rail and qd mounts for the scope.

So I guess it would mostly just be a toy for the AR but I would consider it for some of the above purposes too. Thoughts on which model to get?

 

[QuietM4]

Re: eo tech, AA or CR123

I would go with the C123 models...the batteries have a much greater shelf life compared to AA Alkaline. You could always just use lithium AA batteries, though. I can't see the weight being more than 2-3 oz difference between the two models.

I used to run an EoTech 556 on my M4, but I have recently switched over to an Aimpoint T1 Micro. Much lighter/smaller and it has 50,000 hours battery life (70,000 hours if you use the KAC Battery Cover that holds an extra battery). I liked my EoTech 556, but now that I use the T1 Micro, the 556 seems very bulky.

If you are looking to switch between different guns, I think it may be a toss up. The EoTech reticle might be useful for shotguns.

 

[BobD]

Re: eo tech, AA or CR123

Well, here's some info for you

512 = 10.9 oz (5.4x2x2.25") Length/Width/Height (2AA cell) (rear controls)
516 = 11.9 oz (5x2.4x2.8") (2cr123 cell) (side controls)
517 = 11.9 oz (5.6x2.1x2.8") 2AA cell) (side controls)
Xps2 = 8 oz (3.5X2x2.4") (1cr123 cell) (rear controls)
Exps2 = 11.2 oz (3.5x2.4x2.8") (1cr123 cell) (side controls)

Other differences,

-The xps and exps series has a transversely mounted cell which is supposed to eliminate errors from lost or damaged contact points due to recoil and/or other forces. (I've heard of the issue... but have yet to experience or bare witness to anyone's eotech in person that has gone down...
-This xps/exps is also advertised as capable of remounting within 2 MOA whereas the the more standard line is advertised as within 1 MOA.
-Different models come either as absolute co-witness height of lower 1/3
-Operator controls on either the back or the side

I'm a fan of the xps/exps line and will probably be one of my next few purchases. They are a bit more expensive, especially if you are looking at either open box or used, where there are hardto pass deals on the 512, 516 and 517.

I grabbed a 516 (open) thats supposed to be here after the weekend (for around $350, average probably closer to 4). I already use cr123 so the side controls are a benefit to me (in general and for use with magnifier) and dont mind that its lower 1/3 witness.

Good luck-

 

[OpticsPlanet]

Re: eo tech, AA or CR123

+1 for the exps models. Sounds like this sight my bump around from rifle to rifle for a while and needs to be mounted in a pinch at times, the exps is great for that with the qd lever. The extra 7mm wont really hurt your cheek weld too much on a bolt gun or shotgun.

Easy to keep an extra cr123 or 2 in a pack or bag as well. If you're looking for something small and extreme battery life, the Micro is worth a look.

Trevor B.

 

[Temp9]

Re: eo tech, AA or CR123

Whichever you decide, look into getting NiMH batteries for it. Specifically LSD (Low Self Discharge) batteries like Eneloops. They're more stable (less likely to leak or pop) than alkalines or lithiums, rechargeable, and since optics don't have a heavy drain rate, the LSD property will ensure that you aren't losing a whole lot of juice to self discharge.

 

[BobD]

Re: eo tech, AA or CR123

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: BobD</div><div class="ubbcode-body">

I grabbed a 516 (open) thats supposed to be here after the weekend (for around $350, average probably closer to 4). I already use cr123 so the side controls are a benefit to me (in general and for use with magnifier) and dont mind that its lower 1/3 witness.

Good luck- </div></div>


So, my 516 came in yesterday, here's a few pics to give you an idea. 
The first two are mounted directly in front of BUIS. It's quite beastly so it's position will change the balance of the rifle.

Mounted forward (still completely on back rail)
I need a higher mount for the magnifier, the one I've been using is for absolute co-witness height

Here's the lower 1/3 co-witness view (I know its not centered) 

Well, I threw this up real quick on a side mount. It sits quite high, but other AK (with front rail) is indisposed for the moment.

I'll post a couple pics when I get the chance to throw it on  a shotgun setup as well. 

 

[BobD]

Re: eo tech, AA or CR123

Here's a quick look atop a 500.  I think the reticle is great for it, however it sits tall and adds considerable weight.
The 516 offers a lot for very little money compared to the other models.
If you can afford the xps or exps line you may be happier in the long run.
For me, $350 was too good to pass up, I'll grab one of the xps models another time. No regrets here.