Can anyone recommend an ACOG TA-50 series?

**ram2390** · 06-30-08, 12:20

Just to preface this, this being my first post, I own a 14.5" Bushmaster A3 carbine. I've learned a crapload about ACOGs so far from this site, and I've narrowed it down to two models:

TA33-8 vs. TA50-4

I like the idea of the TA33 being a sort of jack of all trades ACOG, but I don't really like the fact that it would be flattop mounted, thereby eliminating my carry handle, which functions as backup iron sights, and I also feel that without my iron sights the TA33 will suffer in short ranges, distances of say 0-75 yards.
Granted, most of my shooting is 100-400 yards, but I'd still like to do <100 yard work if needed on the spot.

Not sure if you've had any personal experience with it, but the 3x24 crosshair reticle (TA-50 series) looks like my best option. For $850, I want some precision, so the dot/triangle doesn't really appeal to me.

Any big disadvantages you can think of with this particular set-up? Does the crosshair reticle function well on an ACOG, just as it does on a regular crosshair reticle scope?

Obvious advantages to me are:

-Carrying handle mounted, so I can use irons for <100 or >400, or if the ACOG fails (unlikely of course.)

-Best balance of precision and speed for 100 to 400 yard shooting.

Given I'm looking for the best balance of precision and speed from 100-400 yards that can be carrying handle mounted, can anyone recommend anything better?

At least on paper,the 3x24 Crosshair Reticle TA-50 looks the best. However the TA33 is tempting too, and I've read countless pages of TA-33 thread praising it, so no need for links guys, thanks though.

**LettersFromEarth** · 06-30-08, 13:04

If you have the time and desire to LEARN how to use the ACOG then the 33 will not be a disadvantage to you. Im not tring to talk down on you , bro--the ACOG (and AccuPoints for that matter) are not like ANY other optics and folks buy into them and dont really "get" how to use them.
Also, dont discount the "triangle" reticle of the 50 series. Anything between 25 meters and 300 meters can be hit with it like they need to be hit. One thing that might surprise you, though--how small the reticle will look to you regardless of what version you go with.
Another thing to consider is re-sale. ACOG's are hot and you can move either one but I would think that the 33 is a more sought after optic than the 50 would be...at least for some. The same goes for the reticle type of the 50...chicks dig triangles!

ETA--the ranging "tree" of the 33 is made for use on flat tops so if you go that way trading / selling your carry handle for a BUIS wouldnt be a problem.

**ram2390** · 06-30-08, 15:01

With the TA33 on my flattop, would I still have room for a backup rear iron sight?
I have a FSB already. Even If I did have room, wouldn't it be useless without tearing off the ACOG, since you cant co-witness with a magnification optic?
I still do like the idea of the TA33 though. And I suppose it could be carry handle mounted.

**Iraqgunz** · 06-30-08, 15:33

You could remove the carry handle and mount the ACOG with a riser. I used my ACOG on an M16A4 previously with a rear BUIS. My ACOG was on a quick detach. If it was to get damaged or crap out I throw the lever and shove it on my pouch.

Currently I run the ACOG on my Noveske upper with rail mounted BUIS's. I think with some slight mods you could mount the ACOG and you would be happy with it.

Originally Posted by ram2390

With the TA33 on my flattop, would I still have room for a backup rear iron sight?
I have a FSB already. Even If I did have room, wouldn't it be useless without tearing off the ACOG, since you cant co-witness with a magnification optic?
I still do like the idea of the TA33 though. And I suppose it could be carry handle mounted.

**ram2390** · 06-30-08, 16:26

Could I not mount the ACOG normally, without a riser, on an A3 rail?

Or are you saying that the riser would simply solve the FSB problem?

**Ron S.** · 06-30-08, 20:29

Originally Posted by ram2390

Or are you saying that the riser would simply solve the FSB problem?

Correct. If you used a riser, you would presumably get a lower 1/3 cowitness.

**LettersFromEarth** · 06-30-08, 20:54

With either the OEM mount or one like, for example, LaRue's, the FSB will be there but more like a "ghost image" and its not really a problem. With optics, red dots or those with some mag, its "target focus" and not front sight focus like it is with irons. So basicly your gonna be looking "past" or "through" the FSB and after a few rounds you wont even notice it.

Also, any number of folding backup sights will work with the 33 or 50 series ACOG's. My advice is to go to LaRue Tacticals webpage and look at his optic mount combos. you can even find a BUIS there if you want.

**ram2390** · 06-30-08, 22:50

Cool. How is the reticle size? I've heard a few complaints that the TA33 is a little small.

**LettersFromEarth** · 07-01-08, 14:53

ALL ACOG reticles "seem" small. In fact, the ones that are called "donut" recticle are, to me at least, "dot" reticles.

The ACOG line, for the most part, is GTG. But remember--they arent like grandpas old K series Weaver on his trusty '06. ACOGs require "something" from their user / owners that alot of the time they dont get. For some the lightbulb goes brite early in the process for others... Same with the 1.25-4 AccuPoint.

Just make sure its what you need first, bro. I myself am better served by a good Red Dot (I couldnt wait to ditch my ACOG NSN) and if i need to go out past 300m then I have a 240 gunner who Im friends with and that I out rank (lol) to help with that! YMMV