IO Cover for Aimpoint Micros

**MistWolf** · 03-20-13, 15:37

I got in on the Jumpstart deal for the IO covers (now being made and distributed by Tango Down) for the Aimpoint Micros. I got two in black and one in FDE. The black covers came first, followed a couple weeks later by the FDE. I installed a black cover on an H1, then replaced it with the FDE when it came in. The black covers are going to a LEO for T&E

They fit very well on my H1. No stretching or sagging and I've not found anywhere needing trimming to fit. Caps fit tightly and snap together to keep them out of the way when shooting. The finish is matte. They look like they should come standard with the Aimpoint Micro

What I Like-
Material feels durable and just flexible enough to allow installation. It's fit and firmness prevents the cover from moving around. Caps snap tightly to prevent them from being inadvertently deployed. It takes a good push to open the caps. Caps hinge to the side, but snap into each other to keep them out of the way when shooting. Illumination dial is still easy to get to. The covers look good. On my rifle, I think the FDE looks better than the black.

What I Would Like Better-
My carbine is used for HD and the cover is to help keep the lenses clean. If needed, I would not have time to snap the caps together. When the area is well lit, the open and unsecured caps are not that noticeable. However, in the dark, using a weapon light, the caps are a solid black silhouette. It's not enough to get in the way while shooting, but it's definitely an annoyance. I would like it better if the caps hinged upward. In fact, if a top hinged model were offered, I'd replace the side hinge cover I have now.

Overall, quality is good. Cover is molded without distortions and it fits very well. Although I'd rather the caps hinge upward, I still like the cover and can give it a good recommendation. It's better and easier to use than the original bikini covers and much better than leaving the Micro bare.

I have nothing to do with Joe the developer, or Tango Down. The only thing I get out of the deal for investing in Jumpstart program to fund development is the three covers which I've already received

**billybronco** · 03-20-13, 16:01

indeed.....i concur on all points.

fits like a glove.

Attachment 15941

**ChrisCross** · 03-20-13, 16:34

Good review. I've been looking for something better then the bikini covers for my T-1... Now I have to find a black one in stock.

How well do you think the lens cover "connections" will hold up since they will be the wear area on the cover?

**MistWolf** · 03-20-13, 17:40

I can only guess, but I believe the live hinges will last quite awhile. Only time and experience will tell

**jaxman7** · 03-20-13, 19:06

Originally Posted by billybronco

indeed.....i concur on all points.

fits like a glove.

Attachment 15941

Ha Ha....Pajamas!!

Seriously though I am really impressed with the IO cover. My only concern over time is that the 'hinges' may crack.

Even if they do it is light years better than the factory bikini of which I've broken (strap pulled off the cover) 2.

-Jax

**tinman44** · 03-20-13, 21:40

These look nice. I understand the need of off to the side or above in order for the lids to lock together. I sure would like to see something that folds down however as to get out of the sight picture. Wish I could get the T1 set up like a regular M3 so I could turn the covers hinge down so they would flip down.

**BufordTJustice** · 03-21-13, 00:58

Thanks for the review, Mist.

I have a FDE model enroute from TD now. I really wanted black (since my entire rifle is black), but the functionality for my patrol carbine is very important and over-rides the color issue. I twice lost my micro-bikini cover in my trunk on "long gun fun" calls for service. Twice in one ****ing shift.

I can snap these together after the gun is slung and a mag is inserted, as opposed to having my trainee do a grid-search of an area that I'm "pretty sure I threw it in". Haha.

Really, my trainees should have bought me one, but oh well.

EDIT: I'll second Mist's rec for a top-hinged model.

**EDDAKA** · 03-21-13, 01:02

I like the idea, but if I have one on a home defense carbine I don't think I will have time to snap the covers shut, let alone even remember to do so in the middle of the night. I could see this used on training class carbine's or patrol rifles.