Optic for 11.5" upper

[jackblack73]

I don't know where you live or your circumstances, but for me I can't imagine a scenario where using 4x magnification would be considered self defense. So I would, and did, go red dot.

[scooter22]

Well, I have an upper for every occasion. This is for primarily self defense where SBR's are allowed. A 300blk upper will probably get the unused optic.

Aimpoint Micro (+/- magnifier if necessary) is my vote.

[MistWolf]

I have a few 11.5" uppers on hand, and a spare T1 and 1-4x TR24, but I don't know what to do. Right now one has iron sights and one has a T1.

You have more than one upper. Install the T1 with a 1/3 lower co-witness mount on the upper with iron sights. Mount the 1-4x on another upper. Shoot the hell out of both.

What would be the best set up for the primary rifle?

After shooting the hell out of both, choose whichever one works best for you.

[MegademiC]

You have more than one upper. Install the T1 with a 1/3 lower co-witness mount on the upper with iron sights. Mount the 1-4x on another upper. Shoot the hell out of both.


After shooting the hell out of both, choose whichever one works best for you.

This pretty much sums it up. You need to define the use for the rifle.
HD only duty, pretty hard to beat an rds.
HD/hunting/home predator control, 1-4 is a solid setup.

Big picture, both sound like solid choices, and neither will really make a huge difference in performance, practice will.

[Beemill2142]

1-6 will give you versatility.

[Failure2Stop]

If I'm going to use the gun for anything past 150 yards, I prefer to have the ability to quickly magnify.
But I also choose low powered variables/reticles that work well at 1x.

[Corse]

I’ve used mostly RDS, but I get some starburst effect. I’ve been trying the LPVO’s, but I’m still new to them. I definitely like the extended range capabilities. Is the 11.5” a good use of that capability, or is the lightweight RDS better? I need to try some compromised shooting positions with the LPVO.

[Robb Jensen]

My two 11.5" guns have Aimpoint M4Ss on them, great for 100yds and in.

[gaijin]

Taking headshots (IPSC target) yesterday at first light, 100 yds using a 14.5” gun with MRO.
Combination of little lighting, indistinct target and comet for reticle (astigmatism) resulted in 4.5 MOA.
Gun is capable of 1.5 MOA with decent conditions/lighting.
Using a very similar stick with 1-4 Trijicon immediately after- had no trouble piling every rd. into upper A box/1.5 MOA.

I’m a fan of RDs, but not in a precision role with my eyes.
If I’m shooting coarser, full body shots to 200 yds I do fine with RD.
Tighter shots being necessary, I go with LPV every time.

Different tools for different tasks.

[longshot2000]

That was my original plan, but I'm wondering if I'm missing something. The ability to engage accurately at longer distances vs the lighter and maybe somewhat faster sighting at CQB type distance.

I do get a good starburst effect with the aimpoints.

Aimpoint or Elcan. with 11.5" you dont need much magnification. Elcan can get you 4x.