EOTech with Magnifier or 1-4x Scope?

[.Scarecrow.]

Just to start off, I already have an EOTech XPS. But would a 1-4x scope be THAT much more beneficial compared to getting the G33 Magnifier? One thing I considered is that with a 1-4x scope, I can't really see myself being on anything other than 1 or 4 power. and it seems like a magnifier would be able to switch pretty quickly, just swinging it out of the way and into place. What input do you guys have? Any experience?

- Thanks

 

[gunnutery]

What's the intended purpose or ranges you'll be shooting?

For defensive type scenarios, RDSs are probably the way to go since they facilitate fast shooting at closer ranges. However, I could see scenarios where a 1-4x scope would be a little more advantageous on a patrol rifle.

 

[Warp]

Just to start off, I already have an EOTech XPS. But would a 1-4x scope be THAT much more beneficial compared to getting the G33 Magnifier? One thing I considered is that with a 1-4x scope, I can't really see myself being on anything other than 1 or 4 power. and it seems like a magnifier would be able to switch pretty quickly, just swinging it out of the way and into place. What input do you guys have? Any experience?

- Thanks

A good 1-4x should be able to switch at least as quickly, if not more so.

What will you be doing with the rifle?

 

[henschman]

Both setups can do both close and medium range, but the red dot setup is better at close range while the 1-4x is better at medium range. It just depends on which you want your setup more geared towards. The glass on the magnifiers isn't the greatest.

 

[JustinJ]

I opted for a 1-4X on my current build. First, the good magnifiers are all only 3x so you're getting less range. Mainly though i wanted a mil dot or BDC. I never did the math but a red dot and magnifier with mounts seems like they would a bit on the heavy side If i were going to limit myself to 3x and no ranging features i'd probably just get the Leupold Mark 4 CQ/T.

I just bought a Leupold VX R patrol in 1.25-4 and really like it. It's a great scope for the price with clearer glass than the Vortex Viper, imo.

Another option would be a fixed magnified optic, like an ACOG, and an offset mini red dot.

 

[.Scarecrow.]

My rifle is pretty much a 0-200 yard rifle, and it is for defense. I just hope I didn't waste my money on an EOTech when a 1-4x would have been better.

 

[.Scarecrow.]

I figured out that an EOTech XPS with GG&G lens covers and G33 magnifier weighs 22.9 oz. While a Vortex PST 1-4x on a larue mount with scope caps is around 25 oz.

 

[henschman]

Then I would just stick with your EOTech and nothing else. You don't need magnification to identify and hit man-sized targets at 200 yards and under.

 

[.Scarecrow.]

Yeah I thought so, I think I will still get the Magnifier because it was the debate between it and the 1-4x scope. But I'm not going to be reaching out to 300+ I don't think. My Maximum will probably be 300.

 

[jmr40]

I have rifles set up with a red dot, 1-4X, and a 3rd with a more powerful scope. All serve a specific purpose, but if I could keep only one, it would be the rifle with the 1-4X scope. It is just as fast as the red dot up close when on 1X. It works much better in low light than the dot and is capable of pretty decent accuracy at longer ranges when on 4X.

 

[Batty67]

I have an older, but recently factory-refurbished, EOtech and a Bushnell Banner 1.5-4x scope. I like them both, but I use the EOtech form shortrange and the variable for short-to-medium shooting.

 

[taliv]

i ran a magnifier for a while. greatly prefer low power variables. got rid of my magnifier as i just don't like it anymore.

however, my latest carbine is micro T1 only.

imho, magnification is most useful for target IDENTIFICATION and not for actual shooting. thus, a pair of binoculars, or a nice range finder are far, far more useful when locating and identifying targets and even though they weigh a little more, that weight isn't attached to your gun when you're trying to move it quickly.

 

[Jackal]

In my opinion, low power scopes are the most useful optics ever made. There is almost no practical shooting situation that cannot be accomplished by a 2-5x scope. Emphasis on practical. No, accurate shots at 800 yards are not practical. They may be fun or entertaining and provide bragging rights though. For coyote hunting here in the PNW where shots can range from 500 yards to within rock throwing distance I will keep my old battery free Pentax 2-5.

 

[.Scarecrow.]

I am going to get more in depth on what I want my rifle to accomplish. My realistic engagement ranges will be 0-200 yards, but the end limit will be 300. I love my EOTech and the reticle is very fast. I also like being able to Co-witness if it goes down. Is there anything inherently annoying with the RDS + Magnifier combo? How effective and how fast of a system is it when you are shooting what in my opinion are pretty far ranges for this type of rifle, those ranges being 200-300 yards.

 

[checkmyswag]

Taliv....good point.

I've been going back and forth on the red dot vs scope issue and have convinced myself to stay away from scopes as I have a fixed front sight. Thought about going the magnifier route but I don't want a bunch of stuff hanging off the rifle.

 

[.Scarecrow.]

I came to a possible conclusion. And it will end up costing me money in order to learn. I feel it might be smart to save enough money to purchase the G33 Magnifier as well as the 1-4x scope I am looking at. Then, take both of them and test them for an extended period in different situations and shooting styles, and in the end, decide which one is going to work better for me. Because I may prefer the magnifier or the 1-4x scope. I just don't know right now. How does this sound to all of you?

 

[Mot45acp]

By the time you get the EOTech, magnifier and flip mount, you could have Trijicon Accupoint 1X4 and be done with it.

 

[.Scarecrow.]

Actually I think I am going to send back my EOTech and go for the Vortex

 

[JustinJ]

I figured out that an EOTech XPS with GG&G lens covers and G33 magnifier weighs 22.9 oz. While a Vortex PST 1-4x on a larue mount with scope caps is around 25 oz.

The VX R patrol is 11.5 ounces.

 

[.Scarecrow.]

Wow that is nice! But I like the 1x on the bottom end of the Vortex for both eyes open.

 

[the count]

If you are not taking out bad guys at 50 yards get yourself something other than an EoTech. IMHO the 65 MOA ring just blots out too much details at greater distances.

 

[JustinJ]

Wow that is nice! But I like the 1x on the bottom end of the Vortex for both eyes open.

I had no problem using both eyes open with it. Even with magnified optics like an ACOG you can train your self to run it both eyes open in close quarters. Your mind will actually impose the reticle over the view of the left eye.

Really though i don't believe any variable power scope can be a true 1 power.