Which ACOG should I go with?

[ShootAndHunt]

I finally want to buy a ACOG 4x32 for my RRA AR-15 (it is so pricy ). The EOTech currently mounted on this rifle, while great in the quickness to acquire the target, cannot fully use the RRA's accuracy potential (I could even shoot better using the backup iron sight). I did some research and narrowed my selection to the following: (All with Red Chevron Reticle)

1. TA-31F (the original one)

2. TA-31RCOM4 (with improved reticle: addition horizontal lines as far as I could tell, and a kill flash)

My questions are:

1. The difference between the former and the latter is about $200, is the improvement worth of the money?

2. My RRA AR-15 has a 16 inch bbl (flattop). It seems TA-31F is calibrated for 20 inch A4, while TA-31RCOM4 is calibrated for M4 flat top (14.5 inch bbl). My RRA is more closer to the M4 in lenth of bbl. If I buy the TA-31F model, will the POI be very different from the POA calibrated (with 400 yards range) because it is calibrated for a 20 inch model with a higher veloctiy?

3. The ACOG is really pricy (we are talking about 1 Grand) here. That is why I hesitate for such a long time. I want one because I heard that it could let you acquire the close target quickly, while still being able to shoot target far away accurately). I didn't got a chance to shoot with ACOG, is this true? Is the ACOG really worth of the money? Where is the source that I could find one with good price?

Thanks,

 

[Mainsail]

www.aafes.com has the 4x32 (TA33 I think, red chevron) for $1099 and you can often find coupon codes to knock 10%, 15%, or even 20% off the price. No sales tax and free shipping make this a good deal if you can find an elusive code for the discount. I ordered mine and had it in less than a week. Code 9226vip1 knocked 10% off to $999.

 

[ShootAndHunt]

Thanks, any opinion on the barrel length matching? Should I go for a M4 or A4 model, or either is fine for my RRA's 16 inch bbl? Thanks

 

[KW]

In terms of outright accuracy, shooting targets on a known distance range at your zero, the ACOG probably offers nothing over an EOtech or irons. As long as you can get a consistent sight picture, trigger pull, etc. you will get the mechanical accuracy of the gun/ammo. For shooting targets at unknown ranges and at a variety of ranges in odd light conditions, the ACOG is much better then the others IMO. The magnification and light gathering allows you to see targets that aren't easily visible to the naked eye. The reticle allows you to effectively range targets if you know their size. The illumination gives you contrast vis-a-vis the target that you can't get with irons. And the BDC allows you to apply correct hold-over on the target (assuming you ranged it correctly). So when you get away from the square range/known distance/bullseye type stuff I think it offers a lot of advantages. Otherwise I don't know that it will make a big difference.

The horizontal lines of the RCO's reticle are there to help rifleman communicate target locations with one another. For a civilian I'm not really sure what you would use them for. If you do decide to go with the RCO, the M4's BDC is set for a 14.5" carbine shooting M855 vs. the A4's being set for a 20" rifle shooting M855. If you go on AR15.com in the optics forum there is a stickied thread talking about the various BDCs and using other rounds with them. I would lean towards the M4 for a 16" carbine as it will probably be the more useful BDC - but if you are using something other then M855 or M193 ammo that may not be the case. The TA31F uses the same BDC as the RCOM4 - 14.5" shooting M855.

The ACOGs certainly are expensive. My TA31F is the nicest optic I've ever owned, and it fits the AR platform perfectly. I can use it quickly up close, and it's much better for smaller targets and longer ranges then the EOtech I used to have. Some people have trouble using them at close range - I think some of this is due to practice and technique, but it also may have to do with eye dominance issues and brain/eye relationship stuff.

I'm sure someone will be along shortly to bring up eye relief. If you shoot nose to charging handle, the 4x32 models will work well for you. If you shoot further back, look into a TA-11 or TA-33 as you may have trouble with the short eye relief of the 4x ACOGs.

Ultimately some people really like them (like me) and some don't. The great thing about the ACOGs is that there is very strong demand for them used, and if you decide you don't like it you can probably get most of your investment back without too much work.

 

[Zak Smith]

The TA11 series is a better choice for practical shooting than the TA31's.



article | Fighting Carbine Optics

In practical shooting competition such as three-gun, the 3.5x TA11 ACOG is one of the most common choices. It is chosen over the 4x TA31 ACOG because the TA11 provides longer eye relief (2.4-inch vs. 1.5-inch), require less precise eye positioning to obtain a sight picture, and takes up less of the shooter's natural field of view when shooting with both eyes open. Both have the fiber optic and tritium-lit reticle which aids acquisition speed. The TA11 is easier to use when on the move or when shooting from awkward and improvised positions. The US Military uses the TA31 ACOG, however, shooters would be better served with the TA11 model. Market price on the TA11 and TA31 ACOGs are around $1000.

Here are some comments on the new TA11-green-horseshoe


article | First Look at Trijicon's new TA11 with Green Horse-Shoe Reticle

 

[ShootAndHunt]

Thanks KW and Zak! I love my EO-Tech. But the center red dot is a little large and it is difficult to get a better group at 100 Yds while at 200 Yds and beyond it totall covers the black area of the target, so I think better reticle with some magnification will serve the AR-15 better.

 

[Benelli Shooter]

I listened to Zak and bought the TA11. I am glad I did. It is an awesome scope and the eye relief makes it easy to shoot in less than perfect conditions.

 

[Shung]

If i was you, i'd get a TA01NSN (with a docter or red dot on it maybe)

 

[Destructo6]

Have you considered a magnifier for your EOTECH? You don't lose the quick target acquisition that you enjoy with your EOTECH, while gaining enough magnification to more precisely center the dot. Weight and bulk are the big drawbacks.