CCOP USA 1-6X30 Tactical Rifle Scope with Illuminated Reticle Review

Allow me to let you into a little industry insider secret. Everyone walking the SHOT show has a shopping list.  It doesn't matter if you are from the media, a retailer, manufacturer, owner or representative, we all walk around the grounds of SHOT with an item in mind we want to checkout/try/asses for the purposes of buying it later.  I’m no different, one of my top items in mind while I was wondering the endless halls of the 2014 SHOT show was a variance 1-4X or 1-6X tactical scope for my favorite AR15.  Don’t get me wrong. ACOGs are great and so are EOTechs but they are very specialized and wonderfully engineered tools that will execute the task they were built for flawlessly while burning a very big hole in your pocket… I was on a task to find a good quality glass that will give me both the CQB red-dot reflex sight capabilities but will also give me some magnification capabilities for the 75-200 yard range where a red dot sight starts to be more of a guess and less of a precision tool.  I could, I suppose, go for an EOTech with a magnifier, but there are 2 things I didn’t like about this combo: first, the logistics of mounting/un-mounting and the need to carry the magnifier somewhere while it’s not mounted was a little too annoying for me. Second was the painful $1000 price tag (on the low end!)  All of the above made the variance scopes very popular recently with the tactical shooting community, particularly the AR15 and AK47 owners.

So, I’ve set a goal to find something good for a sub $300 budget.  Now don’t get me wrong, I checked, felt and drooled over ALL the optics in the 1-4X/1-6X categories. I’ve been to every optics vendor from Sun Optics to NightForce. I checked the offering from Vortex, US Optics, Leupold, and many other vendors I can’t remember their names (so, so many…)  After 3 loooooonnnnnggg days of wondering the grounds, in a dark corner of the basement level, I ran into a small booth of a company called CCOP-USA. A new(ish) Chinese manufacturer that I haven’t seen before that offers all kinds of optics and optics accessories. Tired and disappointed that I couldn't find what I was looking for, I had no big expectations for their product and figured they’d be low quality as most of the other no-name eastern manufacturers I saw so far.

Boy was I wrong. First, they had both 1-4x AND 1-6X options. The first thing you notice when you look through the glass is how clear it is and how much light goes through it. This is probably due to the 30mm tube (most other 1-4X optics have a 24mm tube which let less light through.The Illuminated reticle and the big diameter make it feel like a red-dot reflex sight. Having the reticle backed by the black reticle and lines guarantee that even if the battery runs out you can still use the optics (point down for EOTech on this one).  One huge compliment for these guys is that their 1X is the closest 1X I’ve seen in any of these 1-4X/1-6X optics. Including some of the expensive brands!

A twist of the ring and you get up to 6X magnification. Considering most “budget” scopes are 3-9X this covers a very good distance.  So, getting one is a little slow (about 7-10 days to get it) but when I got it, I couldn't wait to mount it and head to the range.

I had it mounted on my PS90 with a one piece scope mount that also positioned the optics high enough at my eyes level.

Zeroing was real easy thanks to the “clicks” adjustment mechanism on the scope (which usually only exist on the more expensive scopes).

I had it zero at 25 yards and then switched to 50 yards, 75 yards and 100 yards. I had no problem staying on target and hitting every time.  SO, to the question you’re probably asking yourself by now, what’s the cost?  Well, this is one of the coolest thing about this scope. MSRP is only $310 and you can find retail in the $190-$250 range.  I gave this product a score of 8.0.  The only reason I didn’t score it higher is because I don’t have it long enough to testify to its long term usage durability but I promise I’ll have a follow up review in a few months.

I guess SHOT was successful after all…

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Best Bang for your buck in the variance range tactical scopes

Target Market: Tactical shooters / AR15 and AK47 owners that look for a budget aware alternative

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Model: SCP-1624i
• Magnification: 1X-6X
• Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Objective Diameter: 24mm
• Field of view @100yards: 115-19.2ft
• Eye Relief: 4.5"-4"  
• Exit Pupil: 10-4mm  
• Click Value: 1/2"  
• Length: 265mm  
• Weight: 508g
• Reticle: CQB
• Illumination: Red / Green
• W/E: ≥40'  

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Comes with a soft elastic scope cover

What others are saying?: Their eBay store has over 3700 reviews with a positive percentage of 99.7%

Price Point:

MSRP = $310 Retail = $225

I need it now! Availability: CCOP USA 1-6X30 Tactical Rifle Scope is available here.

Our Rating:

+ Easy on the budget + A twofer: you get a CQB sight and a 6X scope in one package + Zero adjustment is easy with no tools required + Shock proof + Water proof + Fog proof + Illuminated reticle + Black reticle marking to backup in case of dead battery

- New/unfamiliar manufacturer with no history or long term reviews. - Shipping could take up to 10-15 business days

Score: 8.0 Great

Joseph's Featured Link:

Big D Armory

Vortex Diamondback 4-12x40mm Scope Review

Welcome to Vortex Anonymous, my name is Ryan and I'm an addict. It's been 6 days since I last bought a Vortex scope, and I don't know how long I can resist the urge to buy another. Who wants to be my sponsor?

Its easy to become a Vortex fan after picking up any one of the Viper scopes. For the moderate price tag, you get really clear glass, superb reticles, a plethora of magnification options, and a lifetime/no questions asked warranty that will cover just about anything you can throw at the optic. I already owned two Viper scopes, but was interested in picking up something from the cheaper family, known as the Diamondback series for testing and evaluation.

I picked up a Vortex Diamondback 4-12x40mm scope to add to a 22-250 bolt gun. I bought it as Sportsman's Warehouse for the average retail price. Comparing the glass indoors with other brands in the same category including Nikon Prostaff, Redfield Revenge and some of the low end Leupolds, the Diamondback certainly seemed to be as good in most areas, with an edge over most in glass clarity. The other factors that stand out most are eye relief, light transmission and turret manipulation.

I found that I was doing the 'chicken neck' much more with the other scopes to get proper relief, whereas the Diamondback's eyebox was just easier for me to find rapidly, even at high magnifications. The clarity and light transmission of the glass were very good, and even when holding side-by-side with a Viper scope in the same magnification the difference are very small. The capped turrets are surprisingly pleasing. Rotation is smooth but tight, with lightly audible clicks and fine tangible detents with every 1/4 MOA turn. I boresighted with a laser at night under 2 minutes because throwing the scope up to check the point of aim, then turning the turrets just by feel was accurate and fine. They are slotted for a coin as well but really not needed at all. Once zeroed, they can be rezeroed so that adjustments in the field or at the range for known variables are easy to make and then return to zero.

If I were asked to pick the negative aspects of this scope, it would be that at 12x objects beyond 100 yards do come a little fuzzy.  Also, the limitations of factory preset parallax at 100 yds is something I can't help but notice. If you want adjustable parallax, save up those pennies and get a Viper. Also most Vipers come with a sunshade, something you will be hard pressed to find to work with this Diamondback.  But if value and budget are your concern, this scope still has plenty of shining features that will prove its worth in the field time and time again.

Another piece of advice I want to share is the inherent disadvantages of a BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation) reticle.  The Vortex BDC reticle manual groups data in terms of rifle classes that are pretty generalized. For instance, if your caliber fits into Class A (High Power Big Game | Moderate Ranges) you would use 100 yard zero on main crosshair, the 3rd hashmark would apply to 400 yards, or 30 inches of drop.  But for what grain bullet and what velocity?  The bullet drop of a .308 win 150gr bullet and a 180gr bullet in the same gun will have different rates of drop and a BDC reticle doesn't account for this without the user doing multiple tests with different bullet weights and taking detailed notes.  An MOA EBR reticle shows even subtensions in minutes of angle (or MRAD if you prefer mildots, guy in the back of class wearing a boonie hate) and I find it more advantageous for non-seasoned shooters to think in terms of what is bullet X doing at 415 yards in minutes of angle.  Using any number of ballistic calculators available, you could determine to the fraction of an inch where that bullet will drop, and it is much easier to 'mind the gap' between 2 or 5 MOA dash increments and make a more precise shot. That may not matter much when you have a deer in your scope at 100-200 yard, but the difference exponentially grows at longer distances, and I share a belief that BDC reticles give novice shooter a false sense of confidence that can easily translate to bad call and a poor shot. If that error leads to a shot outside the vitals in a game animal, I can't help but wish that individual did their homework better. The V-Plex reticle is Vortex's take on the tradition duplex reticle and would better serve a shooter who is intimately familiar with the lead they are sending downrange than a novice leaning on the BDC without reading up. Just my 2 cents.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Diamondback riflescopes completely change the rules when it comes to “you get what you pay for.”

Target Market: Rifle owners, hunters, 100-300 yard multicaliber shooting

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Fully Multi-Coated - Increases light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces.
• Second Focal Plane Reticle - Scale of reticle maintains the same ideally-sized appearance. Listed reticle subtensions used for estimating range, holdover and wind drift correction are accurate at the highest magnification.
• Single-Piece 1" Tube - Maximizes alignment for improved accuracy and optimum visual performance, as well as ensures strength and waterproofness.
• Aircraft-Grade Aluminum - Constructed from a solid block of aircraft-grade aluminum for strength and rigidity.
• Waterproof O-ring - Seals prevent moisture, dust and debris from penetrating the riflescope for reliable performance in all environments.
• Fogproof - Argon gas purging prevents internal fogging over a wide range of temperatures.
• Shockproof - Rugged construction withstands recoil and impact.
• Hard Anodized Finish - Highly durable low-glare matte finish helps camouflage the shooter's position.
• Precision-Glide Erector System - Uses premium components in the zoom lens mechanism to ensure smooth magnification changes under the harshest conditions.
• Capped Reset Turrets - Allow re-indexing of the turret to zero after sighting in the riflescope. Caps provide external protection for turret.
• Precision-Glide Erector System - Uses premium components in the zoom lens mechanism to ensure smooth magnification changes under the harshest conditions.
• Fast Focus Eyepiece - Allows quick and easy reticle focusing.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Black matte finish, multiple magnification/objective sizes available.

What others are saying?: “This is the second Vortex product I've purchased.  Why? Quality and Confidence.  I love the quality of their optics.  Clear glass, great light control, solid construction but lightweight delivery.  I really like the Deadhold BDC reticle and how once I've got it sighted in.  It's extremely accurate, regardless of the change in distance.  My first time using the scope I made three adjustments with the clearly defined dials (no guessing in the field) and was dialed in on the bullseye.  I also have complete confidence that should something happen to my scope, I will have no problems getting back outdoors and doing what I love.  The only improvement I'd suggest is threading for a sun shade. But no question, I'm happily a Vortex customer for life!" Vortex Reviewer

Price Point:

• MSRP = $259.00
• Retail = $199.00

I need it now! Availability: Readily available online at Brownells.

Our Rating: + Sleek, lightweight, perfect for mounting to a hunting rifle + Capped Turrets with Audible and Tangible windage and elevation adjustment clicks, very smooth and firm + Glass is extremely clear + You can beat the scope (against the concrete) but you won't beat that warrantee!

- BDC Reticle in MOA works for some as a quick reference for hunting, but can still cause false-confidence and poor shot placement due to caliber/velocity variances that have been averaged or generalized. - No sunshade, but Vortex does have a Killflash / ARD out there that should work - Object outlines get fuzzy when using 12x magnification

Score: 8.0 Great

SightMark UltraShot Pro Spec NV QD Reflex Sight Review

By Warner Peredes

The SightMark Pro Spec NV QD is a entry level reflex sight with the makings to be a viable option on your AR or other modern sporting rifle. This is a well-built reflex sight with the AR red coated lens surrounded by aluminum construction similar to much more expensive EOTechs. The glass itself is dual layered and durable with torture testing  videos posted on YouTube from the company itself! This model comes with a quick detach mount, NV compatible (3 settings), 4 pattern reticles, and 3 brightness settings. The reticles are extremely clear and visible during daytime operations and better at night. I have used this sight in Belgium and it held up with no problem. On a side note, during a trek through thorn bushes the QD mount lever snagged on some vines and ripped the optic off my rifle. This is not the optics fault, but a reason to keep in mind why some mounts are better fixed and not QD. Came with manual, cloth, wrench, and battery.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: If you are not deploying or using this as your only survival rifle optic, this is an affordable choice to have on multiple AR uppers or other rifles. The company states clearly that this is tested to withstand calibers up to .50 caliber! The Pro Spec runs around $120.00 with sales taking it down to almost $80.00 at certain times of the year.

Target Market: This is an awesome range time or even good enough to take to a rifle class. The best way to test its performance is taking it out and testing it. The company does not advocate using it in wet conditions! Its water-resistant, not water-proof.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Magnification: x1
• Objective: 30x24mm
• View: 36meters@100 yards
• Eye Relief: unlimited
• Coating: AR red
• Reticle: 4 patterns
• MOA:1"
• Battery:CR1632 (20hrs on high)
• Battery Settings: 1-3, NV1-NV2
• Temp:-10-50(c)
• Weight:7.7 oz

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: The SightMark UltraShot Pro Spec NV QD Reflex Sight is only available in black.

What others are saying?: “Have owned 2 of these for over a year. Both have held up wonderfully. I found out the hard way that they are waterproof and VERY shock resistant. I've dropped mine and it held zero like a champ.

This is not meant to compete with the EOtech or Aimpoint units; however, it does. The only downside is the low battery life (only 2-2.5 hours of actual operation time on high power). I usually take a couple of extra batteries with me anytime I go on a trip.

If you plan on using a zoom behind this unit, you'll want to get one that mounts low or get a riser for the sight (they don't line up very well).

Best $100 I ever spent!” - Amazon Customer Review

Price Point:

• MSRP = $155.99
• Retail = $114.00

I need it now! Availability: This reflex sight is available from multiple retailers, including Amazon, Optics Planet, and directly from SightMark.

Our Rating:

+ Cheap + Well-built + NV compatible + Bright

- QD mount needed tweaking to stay super tight on 1913 rails (electrical tape)

 Score: 8.5

AIM Sports Mosin Nagant Combo Kit Review

The Mosin Nagant 91/30 rifle is one of the most common and sought after budget rifles even still today. Russia's old warhorse is still circulating around the world, and if you don't already have one or two sitting in your safe, you are missing out on some of the most fun and affordable shooting there is to be had. Many DIYers choose the platform to build hunting, varminting, or tactical bolt guns because of its low cost and availability. Most Big Box Sporting Goods stores like Big 5 will carry the 91/30 is stock as well as Cabelas or Bass Pro Shop.

Many Mosin owners who do not claim to be purists may be tempted to accessorize the rifle. Some manufacturers have come up with kits to make it cheap and easy to do this. I myself in a moment of weakness gave into temptation and bought a "Deluxe Accessory Kit" from AIM Sports. After installing the scope mount, the scope and rings, and the recoil pad, I thought I had made a reasonably good investment for $75 after tax. Then I started looking at the fit and finish, and after a few more minutes was immediately flooded with regret. Upon racking the bolt and dry firing the rifle a few times, I witnessed the lens in the scope minutely tilt forward each time the firing pin dropped. Cheap Chinese made optics with poor internals, who knew? Luckily I had opened the packaging very discretely with a blade so I was able to repack everything and return it with no questions asked.

The conundrum with putting a scope on the Nagant is three fold.  One, you have to use a "Scout" scope with a long eye relief in order to operate the stock bolt (Alternatively you can pay to have a bent bolt modification and use a traditional scope with conventional eye relief).  Two, the mounts are often questionable unless made right, and that will be costly.  Third and lastly, any scope that costs less than the rifle itself is probably rubbish.

This scope in particular is an AIM Sports 2-7 x 32mm with a 1" tube, that has an an eye relief of 8.5"-10.5" and 1/4 M.O.A.windage and elevation adjustments, a blue lens coating, a length of 10.5" and a weight of 9 oz. The clarity of the optic (before the lens issue) was moderately okay, the parallax was set within 60-100 yards and I felt like it would have been useful at shooting between 100-300 yards. The magnification ring was very gritty when rotating through the levels and had a very alarming click, almost like a bearing falling into a detent, at the 7x position. The ring also appeared to be sealed with a very sloppy O-Ring, which gave it alot of play forward and rearward. Even if the scope hadn't failed after dry firing, I have absolutely no confidence it would have held up to a single round of 7.62x54R. Pretending it would have held integrity, the scope and rings surely wouldn't have survived the first shot anyway.

The scope rings included are junk, with just two screws per ring they were too short to even bite the threading. I found myself screwing one side an eighth of a turn, then alternating back and forth so the top segment of the ring would tighten down evenly, but the opposite screw would still pop right out onto the floor. I had to use some extra screws from my drawer to replace all 4 of AIM's. After all that trouble and handling, the blued finish had looked like it had been in action for a few years. The thumb adjustment knobs were a soft metal and were no match for my screwdriver either apparently. Now, onto the scope base.

The picatinny scope base itself mounts into the rear sight block, requiring the removal of the rear sight and leaf spring. Easy enough, but it mounts using the single pin hole and thus becomes a "seesaw" or "teeter toter" that requires set three screws to be tightened down against the receiver. There was no instruction on how to use these set screws to obtain the optimum angle, and tightening one just caused the other end to dip down. When I tightened all three to a degree I felt left the mount level the the bore, I was still unsatisfied with the security and how easy it was to push a side down or up. The instructions called for the leaf spring to be removed, but I found that leaving it in at least gave some tension and improved the mounting. When the rings and scope is mounted, I found that the extra couple inches of rail in the front interfered with using the scope covers, so it would have to be cut off.

At least the rubber recoil pad had to be an improvement to the stock Rusky metal butt plate, right? Guess again, as it didn't line up with either screw hole, and a flush fit would have required sanding and reshaping the contour of the stock. Even then it didn't line up with the stock, but perhaps thats just a difficult task with all the different variations in these stocks that came from all over Europe.

The sling looked like a standard replica of the original russian slings, khaki colored even though the package specifically calls it green. I didn't even take the sling out of the package as I knew this kit was going to be returned promptly. If you have a 91/30 or M44 and wish to outfit it with optics and accessories, I would be reluctant to try this kit. I didn't get a quality equivalent to the amount I paid for, and I can't imagine it working for anybody else (unless that particular kit was an older generation).  Bottom line, it's a disgrace to the Motherland.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: This all-in-one kit includes everything you need and is the easiest no-drilling, no-tapping, no-gunsmith-needed option for the Mosin Nagant 91/30 and M44 rifles.

Target Market: Mosin Nagant 91/30 and M44 rifle owners.

FNBs (features & benefits of this product):

• 2-7x32 Scout Scope  w/ blue multi-coated optics deliver bright, crystal clear views.
• Precise fine-crosshairs Plex reticle for dead-on targeting
• Waterproof, Shockproof, and Fogproof (no confidence in these statements based on test items)
• Scope Covers
• Scope Rings
• Picatinny Mount requires no permanent modification to gun.
• Recoil reducing rubber butt pad.
• Replica Russian Sling

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Thin Blued Metal

What others are saying?: 

•  "The rubber but stock and strap are the only things in this kit worth a dime. the scope is almost impossible to sight in, and even if you get it there a few shots later its way off again. mount is really cheap so im not sure which is worse." Amazon Customer Review

• "The mount (not the other stuff) is cheap. The front attach screws are short, only about 2 threads holding. The other screws on the mount can not be made tight enough to hold the mount in place from recoil. Poor design, poorly executed. I sent it back. The rest of the kit maybe okay, I never got past the mount. This is not my first (or second, or third scope mount)." Amazon Customer Review

Price Point:

• MSRP = $100.00
• Retail = $69.99 Big 5
• Retail = $54.78 Amazon

I need it now! Availability: Amazon.com or Big 5 Sporting Goods

Our Rating:

+ Collectively all the accessories in one bundle does save money.

- Everything aside from the sling I wouldn't trust to last the first or second range trip, let alone combat or hunting field use.

Score: 4.0 Bad

Vortex Strikefire

This review is by Lance Chaar, Instructor at Chaar Tactical

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Shockproof red dot optic, rated for low to high calibers.

Target Market:  Entry level users, novice rifle/AR-15 owners for short distance and close quarters.

FNBs:  (Features and Benefits of this product)

• Increased light transmission
• Optic is sealed to prevent moisture & dust
• Rated for high recoil - factory tests with .375 H&H Magnum for 1000 rounds.
• Temperature rated from -22 to +140 degree Fahrenheit.
• Night Vision mode
• Vortex Warranty

 What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?  black only, comes in red, green, or red/green dot models.

What others are saying? "I think the StrikeFire is a good deal for the price. It never lost zero, was easy to mount and sight in, and the dot never flickered or lost brightness. Do I want my son to use it in Afghanistan? No, that's why the 82nd gave him an M68 CCO. But for the average recreational shooter it's fine. I have enough confidence in it to leave it on our home defense shotgun.  The 2X doubler didn't impress me much, although I can see it's value for some purchasers. I'd rather see Vortex dump the doubler and put the money into better glass. " - AR15.com review - user firedog55

Price point:

• MSRP =$229.00
• Retail = $130.00

I need it now! Availability: Check your local gun stores. Online at www.brownells.com

Our Rating:

+ 4 MOA dot is clear and bright + Ghost ring rear iron sight detachable on 1913 rail (factory installed) + Works well with iron sights (absolute cowitness) - Placement and sensitivity of power button may cause optic to stay on when compressed in a hard case - 2x Magnifier extension causes a "fish-eye" effect and reduced objective width, prefer not to use. - Model purchased only came with one mounting ring option.

Score: 5.5 Mediocre

Works as advertised however overall impression is average.  Looking forward to Gen II version and upgrades to body and control placement.

Vortex Viper PST 2.5-10x32mm FFP

I must admit, I'm quickly becoming a "Vortex Fanboy."  It's not difficult, when a company puts something out there that takes the market by storm and genuinely gets the community talking.  I hear the same story whenever I ask the guy behind the counter about them:  "I know quite a few guys who, after looking through a Vortex or trying a buddy's, came in and swapped out their Nightforce glass for one."  Now I'm not much of an optics snob, but my collection of glass has seen some nice upgrades in the last year.  Finding out that as I'm willing to spend more on frivolous bolt-ons that don't really make my groups any tighter, a nicer optic will help in leaps and bounds.

I had a rifle length AR-15 build that used to host an entry level Leupold VX-1 that was 3-9, but I decided to slap in onto my father's trusty 40 year old winchester deer gun instead.  I had wanted this build to be a range/coyote/3-Gun platform, which is asking alot in the optics department.  I looked at Trijicon ACOGs and the new VCOG, but I felt there wasn't enough versatility with those. There are plenty of 1-4x or 1-6x scopes that could fit that bill, but I like giving my eyes all the help they can get.  Additionally, all those have reticles that are so frackin' tiny, I need a new prescription  just to read the hashmarks.  So one day I popped into a Sportsmans Warehouse and the counter jockey put this vortex in my hands.

First Focal Plane (FFP) was the ticket I was looking for.  A scope that dials down to 2.5x for close range cardboard or fur works well, and the 10x power is just enough for 100-300 yard shooting.  Vortex also offers a 2.5-10x44 cheaper flavor, but without a parallax adjustment or illuminated reticle...  all things I felt were standards I needed, as I've grown accustomed to them on another Viper I have on my bolt rifle.   It's also a nice balanced weight at just over 18 oz and the smaller bell gives alittle more flexibilty in the rings department.  I still had a hell of a time finding 30mm rings high enough to make a flattop rail / A2 buttstock work, but I ended up ordering a Burris PEPR and it fit the bill.

Zeroing at the range: Very enjoyable.  Usually zeroing an optic in can be tedious, frustrating, and pricey on the round count. I did a preliminary laser boresighting the night before, but it was just barely on paper at 50 yards.  A couple rounds of adjustment back at the 100 yard bench and it was right where it needed to be.  I shot a few mags at 2.5x at 20 yards, trying to best simulate competition conditions.  Went well, quickly transitioning to 6-10x on the fly is tough because the magnification ring is snug, which isn't a bad thing.  I threw on a quick lever which made it easier (if Vortex included this in the package, I would be extremely pleased as coughing up another $50-60 for a CNC'd two piece ring is tough to swallow.

The scope does comes with an inspection certificate, CR2032 battery, a bikini scope cover, cleaning cloth, CRS zero stop shims, allen wrench, manuals, and a Vortex pin.  The other Viper scope I own with a 50mm objective came with a sun shade.  I really wish this did as well, but no luck! Maybe I'll pick up a killflash scope cap one of these days.

Firearms Insider Reviews – 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:  The Viper PST (Precision Shooting Tactical) riflescope boasts features associated with top-tier riflescopes, yet comes in at a street price under the $1,000 mark.  Born from an intimate understanding of riflescope design, forward-thinking engineering, and open ears to a market incredibly vocal about what it wants in a riflescope, the Viper PST series delivers the performance and features tactical shooters demand at an economical price.

Target Market:  Range Shooters, Hunters, 3-Gunners

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Extra-low dispersion (XD) glass increases resolution and color fidelity, resulting in crisp, sharp images.
• Proprietary coatings increase light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces.
• FIRT FOCAL PLANE: Scale of reticle remains in proportion to the zoomed image. Constant subtensions allow accurate holdover and ranging at all magnifications.
• Reticle protected between two layers of glass for optimum durability and reliability.
• Illuminated reticle provides precise aiming under low-light conditions.
• Ultra-hard, scratch-resistant coating protects exterior lenses from scratches, oil and dirt.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Black Matte Only

What others are saying?:

"For those that hunt predators, this FFP scope should be a dream come true, as it is nice and light (just over 18 oz) and offers the ability to conveniently and quickly compute ranges at any magnification. It would probably work very on an AR platform as well. "  - Snipers Hide Review

Price point:

• MSRP = $899.00 full MSRP, $799.00 street price

I need it now! Availability:  Readily available online  at Cabelas. And most outdoor box stores.

Our Rating:

+ Design and Function are match for a rifle length AR-15 platform, especially in the weight department + Glass is very clear, eye relief is approx 4 inches + Standard quality: Water/fog/shock proof + Ability/Confidence to fully use turrets and reset to zero using CRS Zero stop feature + Tactile, Robust turrets and parallax adjustment + FFP gives a nice fine crosshair for more of a quick, close, "reflex" style of engagement at low magnification, easy to read and use to estimate distance at 10x magnification + Fantastic Warranty, lifetime no questions asked.

- Vortex Accessories are very expensive ($50-60 for a rapid lever for magnification ring!!!) - Less accessories for 32mm bell (no shade included)

Score: 9.0 Amazing

I put in extra hours at the salt mine and sold some hardware that had 'sentimental value' to pick this scope up as soon as I could locally.  Would do it again in a heartbeat.

Nikon P223 3x32 Scope with BDC Reticle and P-Series Mounts

One of the wonderful things about an AR-15 pattern rifle is the level of customization and variety you can get out of one rifle. To be fair, the shooting sports as a hobby is not a very affordable one.   However there are ways to make each dollar count. My AR has had the standard detachable carry handle and front post, a HI-VIZ front post, a Magpul MBUS rear, a co-witnessed cheap red dot, and now finally this beauty of a three power from Nikon. The value that an AR platform affords can be used to turn a carbine into a medium range precision rifle with the right glass. I currently shoot at a range that has a 200/300 yard section and I have been itching to use it.  However I am a ways away from being able to build a new long range shooter. This piece of glass is helping bridge the gap and reach out just a little further.

Glass is only as good as it can maintain zero and stay on the rifle, so mounts are an absolute necessity. The P-Series mounts are specifically designed for this and other scopes within this product line. I picked up the 1" version to fit my scope, however these are great mounts for other scopes and sights as well. Their two piece design allows for flexibility and mounting position.  In addition, the slide on and screw in method of mounting is rock solid.

The quality of these two products alone are great.  However, together the fit and finish of the final product make this a truly incredible value. Just about $200 for a quality piece of glass mounted and ready to roll is hard to beat.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Nikon Quality and value.

Target Market: This price point is definitely targeting the entry level shopper, who's interests may be in medium range shooting, home defense, or 3 gun shoots.

FNB's:

Scope

• Features

1. BDC Reticle.
2.  Large, precise “tactical” turrets that don’t require tools.
3. Turrets can be reset to your zero making future adjustments a snap.
4. Fully Multicoated Optical System for increased light transmission.
5. Waterproof/Fogproof.

• Benefits

1. Price makes it accessible to most AR shooters.
2. Fixed power reliability and size.

Mounts

• Features

1. Two piece design allows versatility in mounting other optics.
2. Available in both 1” and 30mm sizes.

• Benefits

1. Specifically designed to work with limited real estate on the barrel of the P223 3x32.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  None although based upon my impressions of this product I would imagine that the pricier variable power scopes in this line would be of equal optical quality. If a different power configuration fits your needs better, the full line can be found at  Nikon Sport Optics

What others are saying?

•  Cabelas Product Page and Reviews
• TNGlockman Review (Youtube)

Price point:

Scope

For the scope itself you’re going to pay just a touch over $160 out the door depending on taxes in your area. But if you were lucky and/or stupid enough to brave the cold on black Friday Cabela’s was selling them for $99 bucks which I gladly paid for it.

MSRP - $149.95

Retail - $149.99

Mounts

For the P-Series mounts it is the same story MSRP is what you pay, and that is $53 or so out the door.

MSRP - $49.95

Retail - $49.99

 I need it now! Availability: I see both of these products available all the time at the various Walmarts that I end up in. Currently it seems online availability of these products may be slightly limited, however that may improve after the holiday season.

Our Rating:

Scope

+ Price + Weight and feel + Awesome Turrets + Bright Glass + Durability

- I would have enjoyed a bit more eye relief. - Reticle a little small for my taste.

Score: 8

Mount

+ Price + Rock solid + Versatility + Ease of use

Score: 9

My Links:

njgunblog.com

Aimpoint Micro T-1 (2 moa)

 By Agent95

For all the readers that own an AR-15, I am sure you will agree that “we all need a run and gun AR”.  As for me, I made sure I had one for myself and one for my wife.  I've spent money on cheap optics in the past and realized that I needed something reliable.  As I searched for a new optic, the Aimpoint Micro T-1 started to get my attention.  This optic had many reviews which raved about its reliability, so I thought I’d give it a try.  The box arrived at my doorstep and I couldn't wait to have this little guy installed to go shooting with.  I wanted a lower 1/3 cowitness but the T-1 did not come with the mount I needed for my AR.  As such, I ended up purchasing a Larue mount which was perfect.  Once everything was set up, I paid the local outdoor range a visit.  The Aimpoint is very, very, and I mean VERY LIGHT weight! Only weighing in at 3 oz  (red-dot only), I knew my go to AR would be a lightweight rifle.  The T-1 has 4 night vision settings along with 8 daylight settings, which go from dim to very bright.  Each brightness setting was perfect for any type scenario.  The one thing that I absolutely love about this red-dot is the battery life.  The red-dot may stay on a constant “on” for a minimum of 50,000 hours.  That is over 5 years on a single watch battery setting “9”, which is bright enough for most situations.  This gives me the opportunity to leave the red-dot on and not worry about fumbling to turn it on during a high stress situation.  The T-1 is also fully waterproof up to 80 feet.  I heard that you can put a bullet through it and it will still be 100% fully functional for duty. Maybe I’ll do a torture test like it in the future.  One thing I didn't like too much are the rubber bikini covers.  They seemed a bit weak and I will most likely lose them in the near future.  The windage and elevation adjustments are located under 2 small caps, which can be hard to adjust but it didn't bother me too much.  Once I had it dialed for 50 yards, it was perfect.  Overall, this is an amazing red-dot and I can confidently say that it will stay in the family for a long long time.  Is it worth the money?  I would say yes.  It is expensive, but you can never put a price on something you can depend your life on.  Its lightweight, its reliable and it will never break on you.  Who wouldn't want that?

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:  Reliability, battery life, lightweight design.

Target Market:  Military, law enforcement and civilian.

FNBs:  (Features & Benefits of this product)

• Windage and elevation
• A lot of support in mounts and covers
• Hard anodized, non-reflective finish
• Available in 2 and 4 moa
• 12 brightness settings
• Lightweight
• Very durable

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Black

What others are saying?:  Ammo Land

Price point:

MSRP = $678.99  Aim Point Retail  = $649.99  Primary Arms

I need it now! Availability:  You can easily find this product readily available at Brownells or Primary Arms.

Our Rating:

+ Small and lightweight + Durable + 12 light settings. Bright for indoors and outdoors + Long lasting battery

Score: 9.5

Firefield Micro Reflex Sight FF26001

By Ryan Cross

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame  Most compact, lightweight reflex sight in Firefield line

Target Market Target shooters, hunters, home defense/self defense

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product) 3 MOA dot reticle (red) Unlimited Eye relief 1 MOA adjustment (continuous) Compact size Uses 2032 Lithium batteries (included)

What others are saying?Does it come in black? Black Only

Wayfair

Price point (MSRP versus actual retail) MSRP =  $59.99 Firefield Retail = $50.67 Wayfair

I need it now! Availability Firefield Wayfair

Our Rating (What we say about it) + 2 brightness settings (Full, and Dim) + Economical- much cheaper than comparable models from trijicon or burris + Low Profile design, reticle is closer to bore than other red dot styles. + Includes tools for adjusting windage/elevation, plus hard plastic cover. -  No direction of adjustment printed/engraved on sight near either adjustment screws, must refer to owner's manual -  Mounted using single large knob/ thumb screw instead of Hex or Allen key screws. -  Made in China

Score:   6.5 Okay

Featured FFL

Ryan Cross prefers Promised Land Firearms for all his FFL needs.

Ryan Cross Blog

What you you think?

I was in need of a low-profile red dot sight to mount to a .22lr pistol.  I did not want to enter the price points of Trijicon, RMR, Burris FastFire, etc.  It comes with a small screwdriver for adjusting, and a wheel that shows direction or rotation for adjustment of windage and elevation.  It appeared to be designed to slip over the screwdriver tool as a rotation guide, but did not fit well.  This sight did get sent back to manufacturer after it failed during initial sight-in.  Under warranty, it was replaced within 1.5 months.  The replacement has faired much better and has held zero after 200+ rounds of 22lr.  I've seen others mount onto 12 gauge shotguns, but I do not yet have the confidence it will withstand the recoil forces beyond the .22 family.