An outstanding optic can significantly enhance your shooting experience and increase your accuracy, regardless of whether you are using your AR for hunting, competition, personal defense, or merely recreational target practicing. With a dizzying array of options on the market, determining the best optic for an 11.5 AR can be somewhat tricky, especially for new users. This blog post will explore three of the best optics for an 11.5 AR in depth, detailing their features, discussing personal experiences with them, and outlining their pros and cons.
Aimpoint PRO (Patrol Rifle Optic)
Product Review and Features
Prized for its unrivalled durability and battery life, the Aimpoint PRO is one of the most reliable optics available for an 11.5 AR. This red dot sight offers a 2 MOA dot size, bringing an effective balance between precision and quick target acquisition. With the battery life reaching an impressive 30,000 hours for regular settings, this optic delivers high performance even with extended usage.
Personal Experience and Challenges Faced
From personal experience, the Aimpoint PRO presents a sturdy design which has held up under rigorous use. The sight picture’s clarity and brightness control versatility, allowing for effective usage in broad daylight and low-light scenarios alike, were highly impressive.
However, one challenge with the Aimpoint PRO was the weight. Being somewhat heavy, it could slightly interrupt the balance of the rifle. This was not a significant issue but is worth considering if aiming for a lightweight setup.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Unparalleled battery life | Somewhat heavy |
| Durable and sturdy | |
| Clear sight picture with excellent brightness control |
Trijicon ACOG
Product Review and Features
The Trijicon ACOG (Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight) stands as one of the premium optics for an 11.5 AR. Renowned for its almost indestructible nature, the ACOG offers a 4x magnification, facilitating both close-quarters and medium-range engagements effortlessly.
Personal Experience and Challenges Faced
In personal use, the ACOG was appreciated for its quick target acquisition and excellent clarity, thanks to its premium glass and illuminated reticle. The battery-free illumination was particularly striking, using fiber optics and tritium to provide a clear, bright reticle in varying lighting situations.
The main challenge with the ACOG was its price; it stands as one of the pricier options on the market. Additionally, it would be more convenient if the optic could offer more than one magnification setting.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Indestructible design | Pricier than other options |
| Battery-free illumination | Fixed magnification |
| Offers quick target acquisition |
EOTech EXPS3
Product Review and Features
The EOTech EXPS3 holographic sight presents a unique optic option for the 11.5 AR, boasting a 1 MOA dot reticle surrounded by a 68 MOA circle. This innovative design ensures fast target acquisition while still providing the precision needed for longer shots.
Personal Experience and Challenges Faced
Personally, the EOTech EXPS3 provided an exhilarating shooting experience. The sight was brilliant in several different lighting conditions and allowed for a versatile usage. On the other hand, similar to the Trijicon ACOG, the price of the EXPS3 was somewhat high. Additionally, the battery life, although decent, was not at the commendable level of the Aimpoint PRO.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Innovative reticle for fast target acquisition | High price |
| Excellent clarity and brightness | Decent but not outstanding battery life |
Thus, the choice of the best optic for an 11.5 AR may hinge on personal preference, budget, and the specific tactical or recreational requirements. The Aimpoint PRO, Trijicon ACOG, and EOtech EXPS3 all offer robust characteristics that can greatly enhance the utility and performance of an 11.5 AR. Each comes with unique features designed to meet various shooting needs, bringing improved accuracy, speed, and enjoyment to your shooting experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What optics do Navy Seals use?
The United States Navy SEALs commonly use a variety of optics for their weapons, depending on the mission and personal preference. Some of the commonly used optics include Aimpoint CompM4 and Aimpoint PRO red dot sights, Trijicon ACOG (Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight), and EOTech holographic sights.
2. What is a good optic for an AR?
The choice of optic for an AR can vary based on individual needs and preferences. Some popular optics for AR rifles include the Aimpoint PRO, EOTech EXPS3 holographic sight, Trijicon MRO (Miniature Rifle Optic), Vortex Strike Eagle, and Leupold VX-Freedom scopes. These optics offer a blend of reliability, durability, and excellent performance on an AR platform.
3. What red dots do Navy SEALs use?
Navy SEALs commonly use a variety of red dot sights for their firearms. Popular choices include the Aimpoint CompM4 and Aimpoint T2 Micro red dot sights, the Trijicon RMR (Ruggedized Miniature Reflex), and the EOTech XPS2 holographic sight. These sights provide enhanced rapid target acquisition and are known for their durability and reliability in combat situations.
4. Should I get a red dot or scope for AR-15?
Choosing between a red dot sight and a scope for your AR-15 depends on your shooting needs and preferences. A red dot sight is ideal for close- to mid-range engagements, offering a simple aiming point and quick target acquisition. On the other hand, a scope is more suitable for longer-range precision shooting, as it provides magnification and precise aiming points. Consider your intended use for the AR-15 to determine the optic that best suits your needs.