I currently use an Aimpoint T-1 in a LaRue mount on a KAC SR-15 for my patrol carbine at work.
While this would seem to be the ideal setup for some I’ve had issues with the dot blurring or having a ghost dot up to the left in some lighting conditions.
I looked through too many optics this last week at SHOT and by far my favorite was the Trijicon TA26SG-10 (small ACOG 1.5x with green circle and dot). Eye relief and clarity of the reticle seemed to be perfect. The top of the black vertical line under the reticle also seems as if it could be used for point of impact at CQB distances.
Is there any reason NOT to switch to this optic?
Most of my carbine use has been at room distances out to city block. I really can’t see it extending much beyond that. I think a 4x might be overkill especially based upon how much house/building clearing I do.
I have only used the 1.5 and 2x compact ACOGs a few times. But I don’t see the concept. If you want a light weight optic without magnification get a Aimpoint T1 or H1. If you want some magnificaiton get a good lower power variable like the TR24. If you want to keep weight down try the TA33 compact 3x ACOG. The little 1.5x sights are expensive and you get hit without enough meaningfull magnificaiton for longer shots and just enough to make shooting up close distracting.
Pat
It’s hard to describe to someone with perfect vision but looking through a T1 with a bad astigmatism is like seeing 2 or 3 dots at once. Really fuzzy and tough to focus through.
I have not played with the TA26SG-10 but the TA44SG-10 is my favorite optic at this point in time. Yes they are expensive but only about $100 more than a T1.
The benefit is that optics are significantly clearer and brighter than the T1 (especially side by side), they don’t pose problems for people with really bad astigmatism and they do not have electronics/battery.
The downside is the dot is harder to see indoors, in low light situations, because it is not battery powered.
The 1.5x is not any slower than the 1x of a T1, nor is it any faster at distance. It is about the same all-around.
I have an astigmatism as well but for what these sights are designed for it does not hamper me. Just place the cluster of grapes over the target and pull the trigger. I personally prefer a good low power variable scope like my Swarovski Z6i 1-6 BRT. But to each his own.
Pat