Best EOTECH model for AR?

[parabolate]

Looking into getting an optic for my DPMS AR-15.

The factory carry handle iron sights work great but I'm ready for an upgrade. I'm leaning towards the popular EOTECH sight but wanted to get some feedback on the different models available.

511, 552, 553, 556......there seems to be quite a few available. Most are around $500-600 on the price tag. What's the difference between them and what's the best for an AR?

I'll get back up irons to mount behind the optic of course.....can they all accomodate BUIS? I notice some of the models are 'longer'....

any input appreciated!

 

[Eschaton]

If you're willing to spend around $500 I'd get the Leopuld Tactical Prismatic scope.

It retains the crosshairs even if the battery dies, which, when the battery goes out on an eotech, it's looking straight down the barrel.


http://www.leupold.com/tactical/products/scopes/

 

[husker]

iv been looking at the burris xtr-14 for my ar. its dam near as much money as the ar.

 

[blitzen]

Are you SURE an EOTECH is what you want? Are you sure it will allow you to do everything you want to do with your rifle?
Just asking.

 

[Double Naught Spy]

I think what folks are getting at is tht the Eotechs are sort of big, clunky, older sort of dot matrix technology that works, but that there are better options today.

 

[Lloyd Smale]

longer ones are AA battery units and have better battery life.

 

[krs]

On the Leupold recommendation, I've been looking at their 4cq/t as a usable multiple range 1-3x variable.

You get the look right, but EOTechs ARE pretty chunky things to haul around and lose the battery and you're suddenly a duck hunter. If you've got the magnifier and the sight batts fail then you're suddenly a crosseyed duckhunter getting dizzy.

 

[briansmithwins]

Get the Eotech that says 'Aimpoint' on it.

1) I've seen 2 Eotechs die while shooting. No warning just quit working. Replacing the batteries did not fix them, but leaving the batteries out overnight did.

2) I can leave my Aimpoint on for years, and I do. I treat mine like a tritium sight that I can replace the batteries on. I don't worry about turning it on, it's always on.

If you do get an Eotech, make sure your BUIS are zeroed.

BSW

 

[Mainsail]

The EoTech 557 is designed specifically for the .223 catridge in the AR, but I don't see it on your list.

 

[kwelz]

I love the 553 and 557. My understanding is that they are pretty much the same site with the controls moved to the side on the 557.

 

[Mainsail]

My understanding is that they are pretty much the same site with the controls moved to the side on the 557.

Nope. Different battery and:

The 557.AR223 is configured with a new ballistic matching reticle image for the M4 carbine. The battle tested circle/dot reticle will be offered along with a series of 1 MOA aiming dots that are vertically aligned and calibrated specifically for the ballistic drop of .223 caliber ammunition. The reticle provides 4 aiming dots for target distances of 0-300m, 400m, 500m, and 600m.

 

[kwelz]

I am sorry you are correct.
What battery does the 557 use? AA?

 

[Lucky Strike]

I've got a 516 (AA batteries, buttons on the side). I like it....considered the aimpoint because of the battery life but i like the more open field of view on the eotech and I realized that the battery situation didn't matter that much because my life doesn't rely on the sight working all the time (although i do cowitness with my BUIS). I've got a Magpul MIAD grip with spare batteries but haven't needed them yet (had the sight for about 5 months now)

 

[Gary G23]

Lucky Strike,
You've got me confused. According to this the 516 uses 123 batteries:
http://www.eotech-inc.com/product.php?id=21&cat=1

 

[Shung]

I'd go 553

 

[parabolate]

other options

im totally open to other options....i had heard some good things about eotech being one of the better 'tactical' red dot sights so that's mainly why i was looking into it

budget is around $500 - cant justify spending $1k on an ACOG or something like that...that's the cost of the rifle!!

Bushnell makes an ACOG "clone" that actually has some good reviews on midway usa. The Bushnell Trophy MP red dot seen below:

http://www.midwayusa.com/viewproduct/?productnumber=859535

any suggestions appreciated other than eotech 8)

 

[Shung]

This is no ACOG clone, since the ACOG is a magnified optic, and this Bushnell is not.

If you want a red dot, got for an Aimpoint (compM2 ou M4) or Eotech 553..

If you want a magnified optic, go ACOG.. you can get great deals (TA01NSN) for 750$ !

 

[amprecon]

I like Aimpoints too, but Eotech does have the new XPS series that uses a single CR123 battery situated in the transverse position making it shorter overall. I don't believe they'll be available until May '09 though.
Here's EoTech's website about it:
http://www.eotech-inc.com/product.php?id=29&cat=1

 

[paradox998]

I have an Eotech 552 on my AR. I would recommend the 512. My 552 has a setting for night vision equipment compatibility, not something often used in the civilian market. I would get the AA battery model, easy to change the battery and they last a long time with lithium batteries. For quick target acquisition, hard to beat an Eotech.

 

[jamarante]

So, I know this may be kicking a dead horse.

It's been a while since Eotech clones have come out. And there seems to be a plethora of them available (512, 551s and now even the AR15/223 specific model), even on gunbroker.

Does anyone have any feedback on the improved ones that are now out, or are they still junk for Airsoft? I just sold my Bushnell Holosight (I really want an Eotech) and was wondering if I should explore an Eotech clone.

Thx

 

[wayne in boca]

I have an Eotech 512 and 552,and have never heard either of them make a clunking sound.I run lithium batteries,and they last a long time.The sights work very well,and I consider the money well spent.

 

[Nevertoomanyguns]

I have a 512 on my M4 AR and love it. Makes a great coyote gun in the terrain I hunt, Shots are usually 100 yards and less.

 

[mcwjr13]

I have a 512.A65 sure it is a "longer" model but the availability and price of AA batteries make it worth it. I just wish I had the model with the buttons on the side. With my buis the buttons can be a little difficult to access.

 

[Guitargod1985]

I also use the 512.A65 on my AR. I like it. I like it a lot.

 

[benzy2]

While the Bushnell acog look alike isn't near the same as a real acog I have experience with their eotech clone. Its not really a clone. Eotech built them for Bushnell. Basically the same thing as the 511 but without the metal guard. It still is pretty sturdy though. If you are looking for a shooting range Eotech I don't think you can beat the Bushnell holosight for the price. If this is a rifle you have any plans of using in a situation where your life depends on it I would pay the extra for the metal guard and the newer technology with better battery life. Beyond that mine never disappointed me. It always worked and held zero perfect. If I were to look for another Eotech sight for shooting range only use I would go with another Bushnell and spend the extra money saved on more ammo. If I were looking for a sight for duty use I wouldn't cheap out on the extra durability with the regular Eotech. I know the hard core guys won't go with the Bushnell holosight but for anyone just playing with their AR it will do everything one stamped Eotech will do and it will do it at a fraction of the price.