Aimpoint vs EOTech

[Citadel99]

So, I'm wanting to get an optic for my M4gery. I also plan on strapping it to my M4 when I head off to Iraq this fall. So ruggedness, battery life, and all those little things that go hand in hand with having a weapon on your person 24/7/365 come in to play. I'm pretty much set on one of these two options. I've used an Aimpoint and really it. Never had the chance to use the EOTech, though...

Thanks in advance,

Mark

[dave3006]

I bought the Eotech and returned it. I own the Aimpoint Comp ML2.

The Eotech was too big. It was like having a big screen TV mounted to my gun. The controls were slow and not intuitive. I did not like the busy circle/dot reticle. Batteries are really not an issue. You can leave the Aimpoint on for a year.

[greenmountaingear]

EO TECH hands down.
I dumped my Aimpoint shortly after buying a 552 EO TECH. Liked the EO some much that I became a dist/dealer for them! Wouldn't use anything else now.

Rev.F 552's have about 1000+hrs on a couple "AA"'s. Never had any issues with any model I've owned and could acquire my targets far faster than with the aimpoint.

Comes down to what works for you though :) Ever board has at least 6 of these threads, 120pages long...EO vs. Aimpoint. LOL!

If ya ever need an EO or info, drop me a line!

GMG

[Hutch]

Well, glad you two guys cleared that up for me!!! Somebody else wade in and break the tie.

[N3rday]

http://www.ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=3&f=18&t=164971

This topic has known to start flame wars...its all just personal preference. You might buy an EOtech, fall in love with it, and then finally use an aimpoint and discover you like it better.

To each his own.
Just see if you can find some folks who would let you shoot theirs.

[MaceWindu]

I like the Eotech....cheap and easily replaced batteries, great HUD, VERY accurate.

Here is the Eotech 552 on top of my Custom mini....
http://img62.photobucket.com/albums/v188/Triggerman/ASIside001.bmp
http://img62.photobucket.com/albums/v188/Triggerman/ASItarget001.bmp

That is a dime for reference @ 80yrds. There are 3 separate groups there....EoTech gets my vote....

MaceWindu

[Blackhawk 6]

The EOTech is a good sight but of the two, has significantly more reliability issues. The Aimpoint is an excellent sight and holds up well under the rigors of military use. My recommendation is to go with the M-68.

[444]

This question often inspires more than a few emotional responses.

I prefer the Aimpoint. I have never owned an Eotech, but one of my best friends has one, so I am pretty familiar with it. I have shot his enough to know that I like mine better. More than one person in the know agrees with me. For example: Pat Rogers considers the Aimpoint to be clearly superior.

[warrior23]

Lets just say you cant go wrong with either site.Both are great sites my Eotech I feel is a little quicker in CQB,My Aimpoint works better for me at longer distances.So do what I did and buy Both!

[Rocko]

I have both the Eotech 511 and the Aimpoint Comp M. While I like both, I feel that the Eotech is basically more advanced - at least from a user perspective if not a technical perspective. While the Eotech is a bigger, this also allows for a greater FOV - I don't really even notice the housing of the Eotech as I do the tube on the aimpoint. From a total cost perspective on a flattop AR, the Eotech is also almost always going to win, as you don't need to purchase a separate mount for it. The battery life issue was addressed in revision F, but I believe these are in short supply right now, which probably won't change anytime soon. Eotech was just awarded a large contract for the SOPMOD2 project (along with Eclan and Trijicon) so most new production will likely be focused on that. Interestingly, Aimpoint, was NOT awarded part of that contract - reinforcing my idea that while both are good, the Eotech is the "new" while Aimpoint the "old".

Rocko

[jmcc11]

For the casual shooter who may shoot 1000 rounds a year the EOTech might be an OK sight. The Aimpoint is a rock solid combat sight that can stand up to constant abuse. The Aimpoint will still be going long after the EOTech has gone TU. I suggest going over to the Tactical Forums and doing a search on the Aimpoint by Pat Rogers he knows what he is talking about. For real use get the Aimpoint you won't regret it.

http://216.92.9.144/cgi-bin/tacticalubb/ultimatebb.cgi

[fix]

Pat says Aimpoint. If your planning to get into a fight, do what Pat says. Get the Aimpoint.

[DEG1911]

I prefer the M68. I think it is more rugged. EOTECH has the advantage of a AA battery model. Aimpoint batteries have apparently been difficult to obtain in Iraq. So bring extra. Most guys are getting 6 months per battery if they keep it shut off when not needed. KILL FLASH on Aimpoint is also nice.

[Bartholomew Roberts]

This is a pretty contentious debate. Personally, I prefer the Aimpoint; but either sight is a tough sight that is currently being used in combat by our military. Both sights have NSNs and the military has purchased both sights in large quantities.

To my knowledge, there has been no award on the SOPMOD Block II optics yet. The Army did make a large EOtech purchase; but I don't believe it is related to that bid.

I would shoot both and decide which you like better. After that, test your personal sight thoroughly BEFORE you get shipped over there. I've seen both Aimpoint and EOtech failures though both are as rare as hen's teeth. In most cases, they failed right away or ran fine. Make sure they run well while hot, if the optic is out over the barrel nut or barrel, it will get plenty hot from radiated heat plus desert sun.

There is an ongoing discussion at ARFCOM over a problem with two individual EOtech sights that have had the reticles disappear during high heat. It appears to be a case of individual defective sights and not design defect since the same people reporting the problem report that other EOtechs run fine in the same conditions.

[G&R Tactical]

I am both an Aimpoint and EOTech dealer. I personally like the EOTech over the Aimpoint. I believe that it is the fastest optic on target, has a better FOV and works better with NV. I get a lot of Aimpoint's returned for malfunctions so no optic is perfect. You cannot go wrong with either one so you just need to get some trigger time with both and make the choice for yourself...


G
www.gandrtactical.com

[Darkside852003]

Aimpoint gets my vote.

[bill2]

I'm curious about these sights. I've never used one, but have looked through some else's ACOG sight and really liked it. Are they as durable as everyone on this thread says? I've heard about trainers (I think John Fahrnam - spelling - was one) who say that when it hits the fan you can't count on electronic sights but should use iron sights since they never fail. They always talk about how so and so had trouble in a class because his batteries failed, or it just didn't work properly.

Also, how does the ACOG compare the two sights mentioned in this thread?

Thanks

[Bartholomew Roberts]

Are they as durable as everyone on this thread says?

ACOGs, Aimpoints and EOtechs are all very rugged optics that can stand up to heavy use.

I've heard about trainers (I think John Fahrnam - spelling - was one) who say that when it hits the fan you can't count on electronic sights but should use iron sights since they never fail. They always talk about how so and so had trouble in a class because his batteries failed, or it just didn't work properly.

My answer to Mr. Farnam would be tha optics are faster and easier to use for the vast majority of shooters. With the dot-sights like an Aimpoint or EOtech, you can accurately make shots that would be impossible with iron sights. You also have the advantage of being able to focus on the target in a single plane rather than worrying about three different sight planes to focus on (rear sight, front sight, target).

I can still have irons mounted to the rifle as back-up should the optic (primary) fail - so the worst case scenario Mr. Farnam outlines (optics fail) means that I go back to the same level he is already at - iron sights.

Also, how does the ACOG compare the two sights mentioned in this thread?

There are many different varieties of ACOG. Most of them are magnified sights with some form of tritium illumination. In my view the best ones are the ones designed around the BAC concept that use a combination of tritium and fiber optic light collectors to always illuminate the reticle. These can be used well at any range; though they still tend to be slower than the sights mentioned here close-in.

The two sights in this thread don't magnify at all but are very fast for acquiring and hitting targets. They are a little less precise at longer ranges compared to an ACOG; but usually faster in the <50yds. category where a lot of shootings take place both for military and civilians.

Check out this thread:
http://www.ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=3&f=18&t=139306

[odysseus]

I have an Aimpoint ML and have seen the Eotech. Overall for dependency in these battery systems, the Aimpoint is the one.

It is a simple matter. The Eotech as someone mentioned is more advanced. Yes it is, and makes for fun plinking. However the durability factor is obvious when compared against the eotech, and for combat (like I am not in) I don't see the advantage. Iron sights are great too. Also the double AA's and size of the eotech are also not something I would depend on for long term. They are both good to shoot, but the Aimpoint is built to last and is very simple. K.I.S.S.

[DMK]

Here's an interesting commentary on the EOTech:

Operator feedback on the EOTech (http://www.ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=3&f=18&t=191161) (@ AR-15.com)

[MiniZ]

There is a brief blurb about the preference of a Conractor in Iraq regarding sights:
http://www.ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=3&f=118&t=191070

For the vast majority of us, it will come down to personal preference.

[swingset]

I prefer the Eotech, and I've seen enough operators in Iraq and Afghanistan to know that they're obviously the preference of some serious soldiers.

That said, buy whatever blows your skirt up. Next time ask whether you should buy and AK or an AR so the expert peanut gallery can beat a tired old horse.

[Citadel99]

Hmmmmm. Gonna have to figure out where to get EOTech trigger time...

Mark

[El Rojo]

I think what Mark is saying is someone with an EOTech send it to the guy so he can try it out! I don't have either one, but if I had one laying around I think I would ship it to a soldier and fellow THR member for him to try out so he has a better chance of coming back to us after his tour. I would like to thank someone for taking this nice gesture. He will probably even pay for the shipping back! Consider it your part for the war effort. Hell do it for the Gipper!!! :D

[Citadel99]

One of the employees at Lightfighter brought in his M4 with an EOtech for me to see today. Wow! I like it more than the Aimpoint. Can't shoot it as the guy isn't going to let me borrow his pre-ban M-4 with all the bells in whistles. But, I'm leaning towards the EOTech now.

Mark

[dwestfall]

I like the wide open view of the Eotech and the Eotech reticle. I don't like the Eotech controls or the Eotech battery life.

So all my black guns have Aimpoints.

Pat says Aimpoint. If your planning to get into a fight, do what Pat says. Get the Aimpoint.

Good advice even if you're not PLANNING to get into a fight. :)

[chapperjoe]

Go to ar15.com for the gazillion page thread on this. people are SO DAMNED heated on this issue. Everyone who hates aimpoints after they bought one, or hates EOTECHS after they tried it. I'll buy 'em from you! Since they suck, I'll give you ten dollars!

[Dionysusigma]

Irons! :D

[SSG Scott]

I am currently in the middle east and several troops here have the EOTech. I did some research and finally settled on the Aimpoint CompM3 (that I purchased incidentally to use with my M1A Scout Squad and my M177 Carbine back home). The first and foremost thing I didn't like about the EO is that it sits so low on the rail of the M4. With the light recoil of the M4 in CQB shooting, it is easy and usefull to bring the weapon and sight up to your head, not bend your head down to the weapon...personally It was impossible for me to look through the EO without bending my head down. I also think the EO is way to busy...the circle around the dot just detracts from the target as far as I am concerned. I may be mistaken...but it seems to me the EO was water submersible to 30 Ft (please correct me if I am wrong), as apposed to the Aimpoints 135 Ft. I was recently looking to confirm that, but all the documentation I have read on the internet lately only states that the EO is water submersible...no depth that I could locate...where the Aimpoint clearly points out 135 Ft...not that I plan on diving with a CCO, but it seems that the Aimpoint should stand up to wet weather better then the EO (provide I am completely accurate). Finally, and this is purely tertiary to the performance of the device, is how it looks. The EO looks like something out of Battlefield: 2142. I liken mounting an EO to an M4 to putting asparagus on ice cream. While Ice Cream and Asparagus may look good separately, they just don't look appealing together. True, if the device saves my life, then I certainly won't care..but at this point I can look at my M4 with the Aimpoint and think, "That's Bad A#$!", while when I look at the EOTech I think, "Ugh!".

There is one other thing to consider: When a military Aimpoint is rendered un-serviceable, the device is turned in to the supply NCO or armorer and is destroyed...the army (at least) doesn't have them repaired. A GOOD supply NCO will STRIP the mounts, lens covers, honeycombs (anti-glare devices) and keep them for spare parts...unaccountable...you may be able to acquire some of these parts for use as your own spares or save you having to purchase a mount. Something to think about!

[striker3]

I will weigh in on this as well. First things first, try them both yourself and decide which one YOU like the most, and I do mean try, don't just look. As for myself, I was an Aimpoint fan until I got to actually use a EOtech. I like the FOV and reticle on the EOtech more. Also, the larger HUD means that I can aquire targets from a different range of angles that I have with an Aimpoint. As far as reliability, I have not seen an EOtech fail, and I have seen them wet, knocked around and dropped.

Last thing, but one that is fairly important military wise is that I really like the EOtech better when used in conjunction with nightvision. The wider HUD makes it easier to use.

I would have to say that the only thing I dislike about the EOtech is the illumination controls. In all honesty, I do not know what I would like to see done to improve them, so it is just one of those things.

I cannot comment on the Aimpoint from an operational sense as they are pretty few and far between in the units that I have been with. Almost all of the optics I see are EOtechs or ACOGs.

[MassMark]

Extensively tested both the Eotech and Aimpoint and after careful consideration, went to the superior, (in my book), Trijicon Tripower... ;)

Either will serve you well - both have their strengths and weaknesses. I prefered the Eotech with night vision and liked the quick aquisition of the Aimpoint. Neither hold a candle to the Tripower in my experience, (which also has strengths and weaknesses - just fewer).

[Nomad, 2nd]

I like both.

My AK's will have Eotechs

For an M4:
If it was between a Aimpoint Comp 2 and an Eotech I would go Eotech (I don't like 4 mil dots)

If It was between a Aimpoint Coomp 3 (With a 2 mil dot) and an Eotech... I might go either way.


Whatever you do get throw levers...

[MMcfpd]

I'll have a Coke with my Pepsi, please.

I've got an EOTech 512, which I like a lot, but I just got an Aimpoint CompM4, which I tried for the first time today, and it's likely to become my new favorite. The EOTech is good, and has a cost advantage, but with the M4 that advantage is shrinking.

[Zak Smith]

Aimpoint.

Far superior battery life.

Better controls / easier to operate.

[koja48]

Just ordered an Eotech, Acog is next, then I need to build another AR . . .

[stiletto raggio]

My entire company was issued M68s, and I can tell you that after our expereinces, a good number bought their own optics. The EOTech takes standard batteries, has a clearer, more precise reticle and, most importantly, mounts directly to the receiver of the weapon. If your M68 gets turned in the mount, your zero is screwed, and if it isn't mounted totally straight to begin with, good luck zeroing it.

The EOTech is easier to use with night vision because of the large field of vision and the lense is easier to clean. The nature of the sight makes for far better peripheral vision than wth an M68. Frankly, I think the 4X ACOG is the best thing out there, but I haven't had a chance to zero mine yet, so I still have my EOTech mounted. At 1/3 the price, the EOTech is definitely an excellent CQB optic.

[CD0311]

EO Tech for the same reasons as the guy above me. But I would much rather have a low power scope like the Leupold 1-3 Power or a US Optics 1-4 or 4power...I dont like the short ER of the ACOG

But still no complaints on my Aimpoint with a pvs14 behind it in Iraq

[Zak Smith]

CD0311,

Next time you get a chance, try the TA11 ACOG. It doesn't have the eye relief and eye position problems of the TA31/TA01.

[FN/form]

Try both. Use what works best for your use.

I find the EOTechs on our patrol rifles are great for close-in stuff. Larger reticle is easier than a dot to key on.

I like the Aimpoint better for things like holdover. It's what's on my 7.62x51s. I don't personally own any 5.56.

Then there's the recommendation of the makers of the likes of the .50 Beowulf... they recommend EOTechs because the CompMs don't hold up. I haven't found on why that is or what particular models, but that's the word.

FYI.


-josh

[Chris Rhines]

I go back and forth - presently have the Aimpoint M3 on my defensive gun for the better battery life, controls, and ruggedness.

I wouldn't feel too out of sorts if someone were to exchange my Aimpoint for an EOTech 553, as long as they didn't mess with the zero.

- Chris

[PPGMD]

The new Aimpoint CompM4 (also the new M68 CCO) uses a single AA battery with an 8 year battery life (constant on for all but the 3 highest settings) though I would use Lithium for a long term battery.

The CompM4 also has a 2 MOA dot, and installs directly on the rail with no rings, with two levels of height using a spacer. The military issue one (and what is currently on the civil market) includes a Killflash also.

[Tomac]

I've owned/used both Aimpoints & Eotechs, gone back and forth a couple of times. Finally went back to the Eotech 512. Why? Faster on target for me than the AP (YMMV) and greater perceived FOV & IMHO that's more important than ease of control manipulation or battery life (besides, w/AA's I can use rechargeables and 1,100hrs of runtime isn't exactly "short"). However, a lot of personal preference is involved and both are good pieces of kit that are combat-proven so pick the one that best suits your needs & budget.
Tomac

[DragonRider]

I own both, for me, inside 25m eotech by a slight edge, from 26-75ish meter, aimpoint, and then back to the eotech beyond 75ish. So in the big picture, it could depend on what distance you look at in the store and with it mounted. Practice transistions, near far, left right, etc and see which sight works for you.

Good luck,

John

[Bazooka Joe71]

A little OT, but is the Aimpoint CompC 2x 2MOA Red Dot Sight magnified? Does that 2x mean its magnified 2x?

[Tomac]

Yes, it's magnified 2x.
Tomac