Are you searching for the perfect sight for your new carbine? Are you confused as to whether you should select a ACOG vs red dot? You are not alone. The ACOG vs red dot argument is as old as the two systems.
There is no doubt that semi-automatic carbines have become one of the most popular sporting platforms in decades. Whether it is an AR-15, SCAR, SIG MCX, or a custom design from one of the many companies catering to today's shooter the carbine is king.
Of course, this has opened a vast market for accessories too. Everything from tactical slings to light holders line the isles at every gun store. But, one of the most sought after add on is a quality optic. Two of the most popular options are the ACOG and the Red Dot. But which is best?
We will help you answer this question as we explore the question "ACOG vs Red Dot?"
What is ACOG?
The ACOG, or Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight, is a compact sight system designed for use on the M-16 and M-4. The original ACOG was developed by Trijicon, a company famous for producing a wide range of fiber optics. Although some models utilize fiber optics, others rely on LED illumination or internal tritium phosphor.
The ACOG enjoyed increased popularity following its selection by the US Marine Corps as the service's first combat optic. Up until its selection, the Marine Corps has issued the basic infantryman with only iron sights. Despite a reputation for deadly accuracy, it was decided to add optic to combat carbines would make Marines even more efficient in the War on Terror.
Today several manufacturers are offering their version of the ACOG, although Trijicon remains a leading supplier. Regardless of the maker, all ACOG designs share some important features. They are lightweight, compact fixed magnified optic scopes that utilize a red dot sight and illuminated reticle. Although a growing number of systems are relying on battery-operated LED reticles the original fiber optic reticle remains a favorite among users.
ACOGs are designed to be used with both eyes open, which allows the shooter to transition to new targets quicker and maintain a larger field of vision. This is one of the key features that made these sights so attractive to military users.
What is a Red Dot?
The term "red dot" is a generic term referring to a wide range of sight systems that project a reticle into your field of view showing shot placement on the target. The name is derived from the fact that the reticle is often red.
Although used as a generic fit all term there are three different types of red dot sights, including the ACOG.
1. Reflex
These sights use an LED to project a reticle, or red dots, onto a lens within the shooter's field of vision. Unlike iron sights or traditional scopes reflex red dot sights do not require the shooter to align their eye, front sight, rear sight, and target. Instead, the user can look through the sight from any angle and the reticle will mark the point of impact.
2. Prismatic
These sights are similar to traditional rifle scopes but incorporate fewer features. Instead of a reflective lens, this system relies on a prism and the reticle is often etched onto the glass. Most provide illumination and many include magnification, although the latter is usually a set, non-adjustable power between 1-6x.
Holographic- this system is one of the most common red dot systems and pioneered by EOTech. Whether an EOTech red dot or one of the many competitors these sights transmit a holographic image of the reticle onto a small screen placed in the shooter's field of vision. The reticle can be either two or three-dimensional. These units are often referred to as a holographic scope or having a sight holographic.
ACOG vs Red Dot: Similarities
The biggest similarity shared by the ACOG and red dot is the speed advantage they offer the shooter. Both sights allow the user to quickly acquire targets and engage them effectively. Unlike iron sights or traditional scopes, the user can point and shoot as soon as the reticle lands on the target. Speaking of the reticle, having one that is illuminated is another advantage, and similarity, shared by both the ACOG and red dot. Many of the reticles are red dots, however, a growing number of manufacturers are offering the option of a green reticle as well.
Red Dot vs ACOG: Differences
Of course, there are important differences to consider as well. If there were no differences the ACOG vs red dot debate would be mute. Chief among them in the vs battle are available features. ACOG sights often include more complex reticles that allow the user to compensate for bullet drop at different ranges. With magnification ranging from 1.5-6x, the ACOG also functions as a scope, increasing the firearm's effective magnified optic range. Red dots are designed exclusively for close quarter use. The reticle is simple and offers no thrills. Even the red dots that do provide a magnified optic do not assist the shooter in compensating for distance.
ACOG vs Red Dot: Strengths and Weaknesses
The first problem one faces when deciding ACOG vs red dot is that neither is perfect. Each has strengths and each has weaknesses. It is important to consider how you will be using your firearm and what you expect from your sights before deciding which is best for you.
ACOG Strengths
The Trijicon ACOG 4x was selected by the U.S. Marine Corps for use with both the M16 and M4 Carbine. Why did a service with a deeply rooted tradition of marksmanship select this as their first standard-issue optic? Let's look at some of the features that made it so popular.
1. Overall Construction
Although it may look like a traditional scope and function similar to a red dot it is specifically designed for combat. Dust, dirt, water, changes in temperatures - you name it and the ACOG was designed to withstand the harsh elements it might be exposed to.
2. Magnification
Even at 4x you have greatly increased the user's ability to identify threats and accurately hit targets at a distance while still being able to engage at close quarters effectively.
3. Advanced Retical
When comparing ACOG vs red dot reticles it is hard to get past the bullet drop compensation ACOG offers. Hitting 500 or 600-yard targets gets a lot easier when you do not need to rely on Kentucky windage.
4. Power Source
One of the biggest advantages of the ACOG is the lack of batteries. By relying on fiber optics and tritium you have removed the need to carry extra batteries, maintenance issues, and the worry that it will die when most needed.
ACOG Weaknesses
1. Lack of Versatility
The biggest disadvantage of the ACOG is the fact that it is limited to rifle platforms. Everything about it from the bullet drop compensator to the magnification is designed for use on a rifle. It is also difficult to switch an ACOG from one rifle to another as they are sighted in based on barrel length and ammunition type.
2. Close Quarter Use
As great as the ACOG is for distance it does suffer when faced with close-quarter threats. Even the slight 4x magnification can be difficult to compensate for when engaging targets only a few feet or yards away. This is true of any magnified optic and something users need to train to overcome. Some users will even mount a traditional red dot on top of the ACOG for close quarter use.
Red Dot Strength
Despite the many strengths of the ACOG, there are still several reasons why a red dot may be a better choice.
1. Versatility
Unlike the ACOG red dots can be mounted on almost any weapons platform. This is especially useful when you are carrying multiple platforms as it allows each to be outfitted with identical optics.
2. Size
If you select a small holographic sight your red dot will weigh mere ounces and take up very little space. When selecting optics for a smaller firearm, such as a handgun, or when packing gear to a remote location every ounce counts.
3. Close Quarter Use
The red dot is specifically designed for close-range engagements. The small size and open viewing sight area make identifying and engaging targets easier. It also allows the user to maintain better situational awareness, something that is difficult with a magnified optic.
Red Dot Weaknesses
There are only a few areas of concern in terms of red dots and weaknesses. Whether or not these are concerns for you depends on the specific demands you place on your optics.
1. Magnification
Most red dots are not a magnified optic. Even those that do not offer bullet drop compensators or similar ranging features in the reticle. While this makes them superior when used at close range it does diminish their usefulness as distance increases.
2. Power Source
Most red dots rely on batteries. Although advancements in design have made these units more energy-efficient there is still another component that needs to be considered. This means more opportunity for failure when your optic is needed most.
3. Durability
While I would not classify red dots as fragile, they are nowhere near as durable as the ACOG. This may not mean much to the target shooter but when in the field, either hunting or combat, accidents happen and your gear needs to withstand a certain amount of abuse.
Conclusion
So, what is the answer to the age-old question "ACOG vs Red Dot"? It depends.
There are situations where the red dot is the best optic for the job. If you are outfitting multiple weapon platforms, want something easy to use and your main concern is close-range target the red dot is without a doubt the answer.
Likewise, there are times when an ACOG is hands down the best solution. This would include when selecting a dedicated optic for a carbine, wanting the ability to engage at a greater distance, and if deploying in harsh conditions.
In other words, what is best for you is not necessarily what is best for someone else. You need to evaluate your specific needs and then answer the question of "ACOG vs Red Dot?" for yourself.