I’m considering purchasing my first optic to mount on my M4. I don’t know much on optics. Ideally my budget is between $350 to $400 but I would be willing to go higher for the right optic. I will most likely purchase a Magpul BUIS as well. Ideally I would like to do a 1/3 co-witness for my BUIS. I’m a civilian shooter and hardest use I will put on this sight is possibly a carbine course.
I narrowed my choices down to the following three.
EoTech 512 or 516.
Pros: Easy to use reticle, price is in my budget, doesn’t require a mount like an aimpoint.
Cons: 512 appears sort of bulky, limited battery life compared to aimpoint, possibly less durable than other options
Aimpoint ML2
Pros: Most durable of options, great battery life, appears lighter and less bulky than Eotech.
Cons: About $100 more expensive with mount
Trijicon reflex 42mm
Pros: compact, no batteries make it a great grab and go sight, priced in my budget ($379 at Cabelas)
Cons: Uncertain about accuracy with the 6.5 MOA dot
A final option is the Aimpoint ML2x2 which is priced in my budget (midway has a sale on these right now). I however, don’t know much about these.
Please let me know your opinions or any other options that I should consider.
For lower 1/3, you’ll still need some sort of mount/riser for the EOTech 512 ($399). The 516 is elevated, but costs extra ($439).
The ML2 is a good optic, but I’d look for a used one. You can probably find one with a mount for around the same as a new EOTech. ($400 +/-) If I was going to get a new ML- I’d get an ML3 instead, better battery life and available with the 2 MOA dot.
If you want new, look at the Aimpoint C3. Basically an ML3 but with less water-proof depth IIRC. I think you can find one with mount, for only slightly more than the 516 would cost you. I think G&R has them w/ ADM mount for $465.
Avoid the 2x ML2. It’s not what you’re looking for, and there’s a reason it’s heavily discounted.
I like most of Trijicon’s products but I don’t think the Reflex can compete with the Aimpoint or EOtech offerings. That said, I don’t have time using one so take my opinion with a grain of salt or two.
If you can live with your irons and save for an extra month or two and work with a $450-500 budget you can make some big gains in what you’ll get for your money.
Aimpoint Comp ML2 with Larie mount combo $502.95 is what I would choose of your choices. I would just save a little bit more and get a ML3 with Larue or Bobro mount. Never choose an optic based on price. The ML3 has acet tecnology and vastly improved battery life this is what I got for My DDM4.
It might not hurt to reconsider and add one more option:
Aimpoint C3.
An Aimpoint C3 in a LaRue cantilever , with a LaRue Po’Boy combo behind it is a very capable & adaptable set-up.
Run a search here on the O & M section for more info.
Edit to add:
I have owned a Reflex II for around 9 years. It is old , obsolute technology – don’t waste your money.
The search feature is your friend.
As highly hypocritical of me as it is, I would recommend the Aimpoint.
I’ve had the Trijicon, and despite loving it, I would recommend the Aimpoint. Bear is right, it’s been eclipsed by more effective offerings. For my wants/needs/likes, the RX was fine. With the polarising filter, I never ran into washout issues, etc. I think, for your first optic, you would probably be disappointed with the Reflex unless you went for the RX30.
I’ve had the EOTech 512, and 553. I would not recommend the EOTech. Especially the 512. The reticule is awesome, but the party ends there.
There’s a good reason everyone recommends Aimpoint around here. If I didn’t have some mental hangup on battery-powered optics, I’d be leaping like a lizard on the Aimpoint.
Have you considered the Aimpoint H-1? It’s only moderately beyond your budget, and would be an excellent addition to your smokewagon.
Finally pulled the trigger today and ordered optics for my M4. I ended up purchasing an aimpoint comp C3 along with a high ADM mount and a magpul BUIS. I’m very happy with my purchase. Also, Grant at GR Tactical was very helpful answering all of my questions and I definitely recommend him.
