1x4 Illuminated Reticle v. Red Dot w. Magnifier

[rightisright]

Ok, so I'm building an AR that I would like to serve as a CQB - 300 yard gun. You know, in case the EBT systems goes down for a few weeks...

Originally, I thought of using a red dot sight and maybe a 3X flip-away magnifier. I have an unused Aimpoint Pro lying around, so that would be the RDS. But now I am seeing more guns w. scopes like this: http://www.amazon.com/Burris-200437-Ill ... lluminated or more expensive options.

As it would be, Unc had a post concerning this very subject today: http://www.saysuncle.com/2013/11/12/for ... ince-1993/

Pros to the RDS set up seem to be better eye relief and easier two-eyes open shooting. Although it looks like some of the better 1-4 x 24 close that gap.

Pros to the scope set up are less bulk and a better long range sight picture.

And then there's this: http://www.amazon.com/Burris-200433-FF- ... lluminated Apparent downside is the RDS needs a HIGH cheek weld.

Thoughts?

[Yogimus]

I recommend against a 3x multiplier, most targets that you would use it against will be too close to get value out of it.

EDIT: 3x scopes are not really good under 100 meters, show LITTLE benefit till 200 meters, and you shouldn't be engaging targets 300 meters out anyway, and if you DO, the red dot is just fine.

[Termite]

The needs of deer rifle optics are different from the needs of anti-goblin rifle optics. I would second what Yogi said.

[Greg]

As it would be, Unc had a post concerning this very subject today: http://www.saysuncle.com/2013/11/12/for ... ince-1993/

Thoughts?

He's jaded, and has decided to play around with the new hotness.

[Erik]

I have that on my IPSC rifle setup, and have used it in competitions. Still, for a non-competition gun I'd second Yogi as well.

From my competition specific perspective, I'd say this:
The magnifier is useful for tricky shots from 50 yards up. Under 50 yards, it is just in the way. With tricky shots, I mean if you're trying to hit a target smaller than 4inches at 70+ yards surrounded by penalty targets in a timed competition stage, and you have to hit every shot fast. With that exception, I have found little use for it up to 100 yards. The somewhat better aiming is negated by the longer time it takes to acquire the target, and the distraction of the magnified wobbling. I haven't used it at longer distances enough to have an opinion, but from what I've seen in competitions the main problem at 300 yards is to know where the POI is, and not actually seeing the target. I've seen plenty of people with high powered scopes empty their guns at 300m without hitting, while one of the best competition shooters I know uses an aimpoint without a magnifier and scores solid hits.

[Weetabix]

So, does anyone have any specific recommendations for a red dot for the budget-minded?

[Yogimus]

Lucid HD7 for 200 price range



Bushnell for 100, low profile dot, small, and sturdy. Good for a "truck gun", as the dot doesn't have enough leverage to break itself

[rightisright]

I'll stick w. the KISS method and use the Aimpoint alone on this gun.

And another vote for the Lucid. Great optic at that price-point.

[Lokidude]

Vortex Strikefire is another good option in the same price range as the Lucid.

[Combat Controller]

I recommend against a 3x multiplier, most targets that you would use it against will be too close to get value out of it.

EDIT: 3x scopes are not really good under 100 meters, show LITTLE benefit till 200 meters, and you shouldn't be engaging targets 300 meters out anyway, and if you DO, the red dot is just fine.

Ditto. Just use a red dot.