Are 1-4 optics asking too much of today's technology?

**geohans** · 03-19-12, 20:10

After a great deal of hands-on research, plus reading several long tacked threads on several sites, I am questioning whether a 1-4 scope is really the right answer for me.

At 4X I haven't found one that's as anywhere near as sharp as an ACOG; at 1X they are nowhere near as easy to use as a good red dot.

I've handled scopes from $400 to $2700.

Some of them weigh a great deal as well. . . . .

So the question I'm trying to answer for myself is whether it's worthwhile compromising both ends of the spectrum-- Or just buy an ACOG and mount a T1 offset.

Has anyone else done better than me in the quest?

Closest might be Trij TR24-- unless you anticipate holdover.

Please help me.

**Failure2Stop** · 03-19-12, 20:21

I have to ask what optics you have been using because that is completely counter to my experience.

**cop1211** · 03-19-12, 20:40

Originally Posted by Failure2Stop

I have to ask what optics you have been using because that is completely counter to my experience.

Same here.

**kwilkin** · 03-19-12, 23:27

Also, the Elcan SpecterDR is a ridiculously sweet 1-4x. Not as long ad traditional 1-4x "scopes" and rugged as hell. You only get 1x and 4x (nothing in between) but the multiple illumination options offer a nice red dot option.

**geohans** · 03-19-12, 23:53

Rather than me casting aspersions on brand names, how about if you tell me what 1-4 optics you've handled that have the brightness and resolution of an ACOG at 4X?

That might be more helpful than someone criticizing someone else's favorite optic.
I've owned several ACOGS; I run a T-1 on a 14.5in carbine. Looking at outfitting my 16in for magnification.

A few hours ago I was looking through an ACOG and comparing with an $885 1-4 and a $2700 1-4. Neither could resolve the stucco on a building 100 yds away nearly as well as the ACOG, and neither was as bright. Both the 1-4s showed distortion at 1X when you move your eye around a bit-- not the case for a red dot.

Thanks.

**Javelin** · 03-20-12, 00:08

I wish ACOG would come out with a 1-4x.

I guess one could go with an Elcan scope for twice the price.

**pilotguyo540** · 03-20-12, 01:38

Originally Posted by Javelin

I wish ACOG would come out with a 1-4x.

I guess one could go with an Elcan scope for twice the price.

ACOG's are made by Trijicon. Trijicon has the TR-24, a 1-4x that uses the same fiber optic technology as the ACOG.

I have never compared the TR-24 directly against an ACOG, but doesn't the ACOG have a larger lens? If it does, it would make perfect sense that it would have better sight quality.

**Javelin** · 03-20-12, 02:00

Originally Posted by pilotguyo540

ACOG's are made by Trijicon. Trijicon has the TR-24, a 1-4x that uses the same fiber optic technology as the ACOG.

I have never compared the TR-24 directly against an ACOG, but doesn't the ACOG have a larger lens? If it does, it would make perfect sense that it would have better sight quality.

I have a TR-24 on my 300BLK SBR. I like it a lot and it is an outstanding optic --> best damn optic for the price range IMO. But it is still limited by 1" tube and smaller lens to allow light in vs. the ACOG.

I have been really looking forward to all these new 1-8x variables by Leupold coming out and am anxious to see one in person. The price tag is a little far of a reach but the value seems to be there if they really do offer clarity & of course... one has the coin to flip for it.