I’m ready to pull the trigger on an Aimpoint, just not sure which one. My first pick is the M4/S, but at $800 for an RDS, I’m having a really hard time justifying it. I DO prefer the larger tube on the M4 (over the micro Aimpoints), which leads me to the previous gen Aimpoints. Is there that much of an improvement in the M4’s vs M3’s? Enough to justify the cost difference? I also really dislike that the M3’s can turn/cant if not mounted perfectly level. All of that leads me to the T-1, which I can’t really fault for anything except its smaller tube, which can make odd-position sight acquisition slightly more complicated at times.
Lastly, are there any places offering Christmas deals on Aimpoints?
It seems very good, but shelling out $400+ for what seems to be a re-worked M2 in a less-durable configuration (compared to the M4 and T-1) seems like a big compromise, IMO.
I’m not sure it’s less durable by any means. It also comes with a decent mount. I really do not think you are sacrificing anything by going with the Pro IMO.
RifleGear has a 10% off code XMAS10P on everything in stock.
ETA. If you don’t need NVD capability, or the “Extruded” high strength aluminum body instead of the “Regular” high strength aluminum body, and no need to be waterproof down to 80 feet depth, the H-1 has been highly recommended here. Check out RifleGears package of H-1/w American Defense T-1 QD mount. $535 after discount.
That’s my point. The PRO is a virtually M2, so purchasing an M2 when we have the advances of the M3, M4, and T-1 seems sort of backwards to me, unless the durability and performance gains just aren’t really worth it. I can honestly say I’ve never seen someone recommend an M2 over an M3 or M4, so I guess that’s where my skepticism over the PRO comes from.
You are honesty over thinking this. The PRO was originally designed for LEO only, hence the name Patrol Rifle Optic. The only reason the price is so much lower was for LEO. Then they decided to let everyone purchase the PRO, and now we get a M2 for basically a lot less.
Just buy the PRO and I guarantee you will be happy with it.
Quick question - does the T-1 come AR ready for mounting? Or does it require an additional mount/spacer? I’ve searched and can’t seem to find a clear answer.
What advances are you referring to, and do they make a practical difference? Honest question. I just don’t know. I can guess maybe battery life improved with the later models, but not sure that matters when it’s already measured in years. FWIW, I use a Pro and don’t feel I lack for anything.
Aimpoint has MAP pricing so you will likely find the same prices anywhere you look whether it be Grant or Optics Planet. I have a PRO and like it but I will likely upgrade to a T1 on a Larue QD mount.
Thanks for all of the feedback, guys! I almost went for the PRO, but I found a NIB M4 for $600 shipped and couldn’t really pass it up, so I went with that one.
Good choice but it’s a little on the heavy side. You can’t beat that price though. I would suggest getting an ADM lower 1/3 mount. It is much nicer than the QRPII mount which is absolute co witness. The great thing about the M4 is that you can put an Energizer Lithium battery in it, turn it on and forget about it for 8 to 10 years.