Best Optic, 1x4 or 3x9-40 with Offset Red Dot

[nate31405]

I'm trying to decide whats the best optic for my needs on my AR-15. I want something where I can shoot up to 200-300 yards in low light situations but also something for closed quarters/personal defense if needed. Would a Leupold Rifleman 3x9-40 with and offset red dot work for this? Or just a 1x4 scope? With the 1x4 can you see the crosshairs with both eyes open? Thanks for the help guys.

[Mikey]

You should be able to hit at 2-300 yards with a red dot fairly easily.

[Failure2Stop]

The concept I push is that magnification will not make you more accurate, it will only let you see more.
The primary advantage is with target detection, discrimination, and precise targeting.

I can shoot out to 1k with iron sights, but it requires a clearly contrasted target. In the really real world, when trying to hit stuff that is trying not to get hit, magnification helps a lot in finding them.

Magnification comes with a cost (beyond financial and weight) in that your field of view will be greatly constricted. This can make some things harder when working for rapid acquisition at closer ranges.

I really prefer low powered variables for general purpose work.
Dots work fine for distances at which the shooter doesn't need to look for targets. 1-4x works well for realistic use out to 500 or so. Bumping up to 6-8x at the top end will add a couple of hundred meters. The 3-9 type optics (2.5-10x, 3-12x, etc) work well for 100 to 1k, depending on environment. A large factor in this is the relative size of the magnified image in relation to the reticle. More magnification makes for easier distance estimation, more precise read of strike of round, and more precise hold-offs for wind or drop. I currently am of the opinion that 1-6x is pretty much perfect for the realistic envelope of 5.56, and 1-8x for carbine 7.62 guns.

If I needed longer range precision, a 3-9x type with an offset sighting system for 0-150 would be my choice. I base primary optic selection on my primary performance expectation envelope and then figure out what needs to be added to fill the gaps, if there are any. For me, there are no gaps with a low-powered variable (if properly selected), except for long range shooting, which I only do for giggles anyway, and in those instances the target is so clearly defined that the lack of top-end magnification doesn't really hurt.

[nate31405]

I've seen a lot of 1x4 scopes and the prices are all over the place. What is a good optic, yet economically priced?

[Failure2Stop]

I've seen a lot of 1x4 scopes and the prices are all over the place. What is a good optic, yet economically priced?

Define "economically priced".

[nate31405]

Maybe under $500?

[Failure2Stop]

Maybe under $500?

I'd look into the Burris and Vortex 1-4s in that price range.
In my experience, the lowest I would go is the Trijicon TR24, though I am not a fan of the triangle/post for stuff past 250 or so.

ETA: take a look at the SWFA Sample List, can find some good deals there, or for a used higher quality optic. They can usually be found in good condition with a decent mount for less than the optic alone if new.

[jwfuhrman]

For the price you pay for the Vortex Viper 1-4, you get what alot of doubly priced optics cost.

I've used alot of the top 1-4's for 3gun and I always find my self coming back to the Vortex line of glass. For its price point and the quality its just damn hard to beat and it lets me accurately get hits out to 450 which is the farthest I've ever had to shoot at a match.

[bp7178]

I currently am of the opinion that 1-6x is pretty much perfect for the realistic envelope of 5.56, and 1-8x for carbine 7.62 guns.

Which 1-6x scopes have you used and which would you recommend? I've been looking at the VX-6, both with the German 4 and SPR reticle. I've also been looking at the Mark 6, but I'm not a fan of the reticle or the illumination. The Vortex 1-6x, the new one, looks good, but is VERY heavy for what it is.

I like the idea of a 2.5-10x with an offset RDS, but in that magnification range I really want a FFP scope which seems hard to find with a good reticle.

My other option i'm looking at is an ACOG or Browe with an offset. I'm a big fan of two optic solutions as there aren't any levers or changing involved. Just tilt the rifle or move your head to get on the other optic.

[Failure2Stop]

Which 1-6x scopes have you used and which would you recommend?

I have the most experience with the Swaro Z6i, which is simply phenominal, despite the fact that there are things about it I would like to change.

I am looking forward to getting more time behind the Leupy Mk6. For my use, the VX-6 isn't quite cutting it. Might be a good option for someone that doesn't mind certain features and for whom Swaro is not budget friendly.

Both are notably pricey, as is the only currently viable 1-8x (Leupy).