EOTech: worth the money? Alternatives?

blackdog_507 · March 8, 2010, 10:20 PM

I've not really ever been a huge fan of traditional red-dot sights, as I feel you lose the magnification, but don't really gain the quick target acquisition of open sights. However, I recently tried out an EOTech on a mock stock at the local gander mtn. store and I really liked it. Quick Target acquisition, adjustable brightness, and I really liked the reticle. My AR currently has a removable carry handle and and front sight, no optics. I'm SERIOUSLY considering buying this sight (or something similar), but they're so flipping expensive. I got a great deal on my Stag Model 1 ($700 + Shipping) and this sight is almost as much as the rifle! Can someone please explain to me why the EOTech is so expensive, why or why not its worth it, and if there are any cheaper QUALITY alternatives? Thanks for the help.

essohbe · March 8, 2010, 10:27 PM

I think the real EOtechs are so expensive just because they can get away with selling them for that much, lol.

Does anyone have a good source to get a knock-off EOtech from? I've seen them in pictures and it would be going on a .22 so I don't really have to worry about it falling apart.

Chinny33 · March 8, 2010, 11:15 PM

Trijicon!

88KEYS · March 8, 2010, 11:36 PM

I have 2 of them one on my Beretta Storm PX4 45 ACP, the other on my M-4, flat-top, they truly work great. I got them both with an LEO discount many places give them. I know what you mean about the cost, I have had rifles with the scope costing as much as the gun.

The difference from a standard red dot is major, but is it worth the money that one is clearly in the "eye of the beholder". The sight can move with changing your line of sight to the target, you can move it so the sight is stuck in the upper right corner. Like taking cover you do not expose as much of your body, if it is on a target it hits. I had the Storm at an LE range and one of the instructors a great shot was looking at it. I told him to give it a try and he was bouncing soda cans keeping them on the move. Then I had to take it back, he wanted to keep it he loved the sight.

That’s all I can say they cost but are great for fast action, both eyes open, even low light sights.

Stevie-Ray · March 9, 2010, 12:21 AM

Quote:

I got a great deal on my Stag Model 1 ($700 + Shipping) and this sight is almost as much as the rifle!

The 512 sells for less than $400 if you shop around. But I love mine and highly recommend them.

Here's one for $409 with free batteries and cover.

KAK · March 9, 2010, 12:25 AM

The Trijicon Reflex is awesome. It is my favorite 0x sight for target acquisition. It never needs batteries and I know for a fact its tough as nails and waterproof. I accidentally let lots of nasty carbon runoff mixed with gun scrubber get all over it clouding it up. I simply got some dawn dish soap and turned the faucet on HOT and washed it off. Used the lens pen and its good as new.

Stevie-Ray · March 9, 2010, 12:31 AM

Here's another alternative that I've never heard anything but good things about and it's half the price of the EOTech. I've yet to try one. Alternative.

riggins_83 · March 9, 2010, 12:31 AM

I have an Eotech 512 on a Bushmaster, it's been great. I don't mind the price, overall not that expensive, love the reticle and it looks great with a GG&G cover

Tomac · March 9, 2010, 08:42 AM

1) Eotech is the only holographic optic currently available (yes, there are the older, cheaper Bushnells but they aren't as rugged and use non-std batteries) so any of the clones are just red-dot sights dressed-up to look like an Eotech.
2) I've used numerous Eotechs, Aimpoints & Trijicon Reflex's over the years and I much prefer the Eotech's circle-dot reticle. Not only am I generally faster on-target (especially when shooting from awkward positions w/sloppy cheekweld) but the bottom of the circle makes a great aiming point when shooting close-in and POA & POI don't yet coincide.
3) I love the Trijicon Reflex series (especially the new RX30/RX34 w/their huge FOV through the 42mm objective) but the reticle can be made to wash out under certain lighting conditions (like using a taclight at close range or aiming out a window into bright daylight from a dark room).
4) If all you want is a range toy then check out Primary Arms offerings: http://www.primaryarms.com/
5) If you want an optic for possible serious social use then stick w/those that are combat-proven like Aimpoints & Eotechs.
6) Lightly used Eotech 512's are available at the Equipment Exchange at ARFCOM for as little as $300.
7) I prefer the AA Eotechs as all the rest of my gear runs on AA's and this simplifies my battery logistics.
Bottom line: I think Eotechs are worth it for my needs (YMMV) as I prefer its greater speed & reticle usefulness to the Aimpoint's greater ruggedness & battery life.
Just MHO...
Tomac
STG-556 w/Eotech 512:

STG-556 w/Aimpoint CompM4:

Me running STG-556 w/Eotech 512 at a carbine class last summer:

Current STG-556 setup w/E4 optic rail, Eotech 517, Magpul MBUS, TK20 taclight & Levang compensator:

SR420 · March 9, 2010, 08:53 AM

I like the EOTech... it's reticle is awesome, but it sits up pretty high
and it's best suited to flat top rails that don't require a cheek riser.

scottawil · March 9, 2010, 09:00 AM

I have an EOTECH 552 and I love it, but I'm not convinced they're worth the money. I've used an AIMPoint M68 Comp 2 extensively and felt it was just as good. I haven't used any of the cheaper alternatives out there yet so I don't know how reliable they are. If I had the cash to blow I'd buy a Trijicon ACOG with the reflex sight mount and either a Doctor or Trijicon reflex sight, but then again I could buy a couple more guns for that price.

espnazi · March 9, 2010, 09:11 AM

Isn't the Bushnell holographic sight made by EOtech?

CortJestir · March 9, 2010, 09:31 AM

I believe the Bushnells are made by EOTech.

Quote:

Can someone please explain to me why the EOTech is so expensive

As may have been mentioned, deals can be had if you look around. I picked up a 512 for $370, BNIB. Just be on the lookout for knock-offs if you go the auction/online route. Here's how to detect them.

RT · March 9, 2010, 10:16 AM

If I could do it again, I'd get an Aimpoint H-1. Just because of the compactness and weight.

Technosavant · March 9, 2010, 10:39 AM

They're expensive because they work and the zero doesn't drift (like can happen with el cheapo optics). The previously mentioned Bushnell is basically an EOTech 511 without the protective hood, but be sure to stock up on CR123 batteries.

There are a large number of EOTech variants, so be sure you're pricing out one that meets your needs- the ones with NV capability and the controls on the side (for easier use with a magnifier) are a lot more expensive than the more basic units. A 511 (uses two AA batteries) still isn't cheap in the mid $400 range, but you're talking a military quality optic. You don't price shop EOTechs against BSA or Famous Maker, you price shop them against Aimpoints (which are a bit more, but have much longer battery life) and Trijicons (tritium ain't cheap).

We're talking high end optics here- when you price a BMW or Mercedes against a Kia, there will be a huge price difference because what you are getting for the money is so different.

full.tang.halo · March 9, 2010, 10:42 AM

@essohbe

rrages.com has a 522 clone for $100.
http://rrages.com/sight/552clone/index.htm

They deal in mostly stuff for .22 AR's and GSG-5/GSG522.

flight954 · March 9, 2010, 10:46 AM

Yes they are worth the money as is Aimpoint. I wouldn't buy a knock off. Save up and buy the real thing.

March 8, 2010, 10:20 PM	#1
blackdog_507 Member Join Date: March 28, 2009 Posts: 73	EOTech: worth the money? Alternatives? I've not really ever been a huge fan of traditional red-dot sights, as I feel you lose the magnification, but don't really gain the quick target acquisition of open sights. However, I recently tried out an EOTech on a mock stock at the local gander mtn. store and I really liked it. Quick Target acquisition, adjustable brightness, and I really liked the reticle. My AR currently has a removable carry handle and and front sight, no optics. I'm SERIOUSLY considering buying this sight (or something similar), but they're so flipping expensive. I got a great deal on my Stag Model 1 ($700 + Shipping) and this sight is almost as much as the rifle! Can someone please explain to me why the EOTech is so expensive, why or why not its worth it, and if there are any cheaper QUALITY alternatives? Thanks for the help.

March 8, 2010, 11:15 PM	#3
Chinny33 Senior Member Join Date: November 30, 2008 Location: Los Angeles, CA Posts: 248	Trijicon! __________________ PLAN PLAN PLAN A prudent man forsees evil and hides himself; the simple pass on and are punished Proverbs 27:12

March 9, 2010, 12:31 AM	#7
Stevie-Ray Senior Member Join Date: May 22, 2007 Location: The shores of Lake Huron Posts: 4,783	Here's another alternative that I've never heard anything but good things about and it's half the price of the EOTech. I've yet to try one. Alternative. __________________ Stevie-Ray Join the NRA/ILA I am the weapon; my gun is a tool. It's regrettable that with some people those descriptors are reversed.

March 9, 2010, 12:31 AM	#8
riggins_83 Senior Member Join Date: January 19, 2009 Location: Wherever I may roam Posts: 1,506	I have an Eotech 512 on a Bushmaster, it's been great. I don't mind the price, overall not that expensive, love the reticle and it looks great with a GG&G cover __________________ l've heard police work is dangerous. Yes, that's why l carry a big gun. Couldn't it go off accidentally? l used to have that problem. What did you do about it? l just think about baseball. -Leslie Nielsen

March 9, 2010, 08:42 AM	#9
Tomac Senior Member Join Date: December 15, 2001 Location: Caldwell, Idaho Posts: 511	1) Eotech is the only holographic optic currently available (yes, there are the older, cheaper Bushnells but they aren't as rugged and use non-std batteries) so any of the clones are just red-dot sights dressed-up to look like an Eotech. 2) I've used numerous Eotechs, Aimpoints & Trijicon Reflex's over the years and I much prefer the Eotech's circle-dot reticle. Not only am I generally faster on-target (especially when shooting from awkward positions w/sloppy cheekweld) but the bottom of the circle makes a great aiming point when shooting close-in and POA & POI don't yet coincide. 3) I love the Trijicon Reflex series (especially the new RX30/RX34 w/their huge FOV through the 42mm objective) but the reticle can be made to wash out under certain lighting conditions (like using a taclight at close range or aiming out a window into bright daylight from a dark room). 4) If all you want is a range toy then check out Primary Arms offerings: http://www.primaryarms.com/ 5) If you want an optic for possible serious social use then stick w/those that are combat-proven like Aimpoints & Eotechs. 6) Lightly used Eotech 512's are available at the Equipment Exchange at ARFCOM for as little as $300. 7) I prefer the AA Eotechs as all the rest of my gear runs on AA's and this simplifies my battery logistics. Bottom line: I think Eotechs are worth it for my needs (YMMV) as I prefer its greater speed & reticle usefulness to the Aimpoint's greater ruggedness & battery life. Just MHO... Tomac STG-556 w/Eotech 512: STG-556 w/Aimpoint CompM4: Me running STG-556 w/Eotech 512 at a carbine class last summer: Current STG-556 setup w/E4 optic rail, Eotech 517, Magpul MBUS, TK20 taclight & Levang compensator: __________________ "His Universe, His rules." - Tomac

March 8, 2010, 10:27 PM	#2
essohbe Junior member Join Date: March 22, 2009 Location: U.S.A. Posts: 817	I think the real EOtechs are so expensive just because they can get away with selling them for that much, lol. Does anyone have a good source to get a knock-off EOtech from? I've seen them in pictures and it would be going on a .22 so I don't really have to worry about it falling apart.

March 8, 2010, 11:36 PM	#4
88KEYS Senior Member Join Date: January 21, 2010 Posts: 145	I have 2 of them one on my Beretta Storm PX4 45 ACP, the other on my M-4, flat-top, they truly work great. I got them both with an LEO discount many places give them. I know what you mean about the cost, I have had rifles with the scope costing as much as the gun. The difference from a standard red dot is major, but is it worth the money that one is clearly in the "eye of the beholder". The sight can move with changing your line of sight to the target, you can move it so the sight is stuck in the upper right corner. Like taking cover you do not expose as much of your body, if it is on a target it hits. I had the Storm at an LE range and one of the instructors a great shot was looking at it. I told him to give it a try and he was bouncing soda cans keeping them on the move. Then I had to take it back, he wanted to keep it he loved the sight. That’s all I can say they cost but are great for fast action, both eyes open, even low light sights.

March 9, 2010, 12:25 AM	#6
KAK Senior Member Join Date: February 10, 2010 Posts: 150	The Trijicon Reflex is awesome. It is my favorite 0x sight for target acquisition. It never needs batteries and I know for a fact its tough as nails and waterproof. I accidentally let lots of nasty carbon runoff mixed with gun scrubber get all over it clouding it up. I simply got some dawn dish soap and turned the faucet on HOT and washed it off. Used the lens pen and its good as new.

March 9, 2010, 08:53 AM	#10
SR420 Senior Member Join Date: May 12, 2005 Location: Georgia, USA Posts: 3,336	I like the EOTech... it's reticle is awesome, but it sits up pretty high and it's best suited to flat top rails that don't require a cheek riser. __________________ The History and Development of the M14 EBR

March 9, 2010, 09:00 AM	#11
scottawil Member Join Date: February 24, 2010 Location: Ft Campbell, KY Posts: 27	I have an EOTECH 552 and I love it, but I'm not convinced they're worth the money. I've used an AIMPoint M68 Comp 2 extensively and felt it was just as good. I haven't used any of the cheaper alternatives out there yet so I don't know how reliable they are. If I had the cash to blow I'd buy a Trijicon ACOG with the reflex sight mount and either a Doctor or Trijicon reflex sight, but then again I could buy a couple more guns for that price.

March 9, 2010, 09:11 AM	#12
espnazi Senior Member Join Date: August 6, 2009 Posts: 256	Isn't the Bushnell holographic sight made by EOtech?

March 9, 2010, 10:16 AM	#14
RT Senior Member Join Date: September 9, 2000 Location: San Antonio, TX Posts: 2,194	If I could do it again, I'd get an Aimpoint H-1. Just because of the compactness and weight.

March 9, 2010, 10:39 AM	#15
Technosavant Senior Member Join Date: May 29, 2007 Location: St. Louis, MO area Posts: 4,040	They're expensive because they work and the zero doesn't drift (like can happen with el cheapo optics). The previously mentioned Bushnell is basically an EOTech 511 without the protective hood, but be sure to stock up on CR123 batteries. There are a large number of EOTech variants, so be sure you're pricing out one that meets your needs- the ones with NV capability and the controls on the side (for easier use with a magnifier) are a lot more expensive than the more basic units. A 511 (uses two AA batteries) still isn't cheap in the mid $400 range, but you're talking a military quality optic. You don't price shop EOTechs against BSA or Famous Maker, you price shop them against Aimpoints (which are a bit more, but have much longer battery life) and Trijicons (tritium ain't cheap). We're talking high end optics here- when you price a BMW or Mercedes against a Kia, there will be a huge price difference because what you are getting for the money is so different.

March 9, 2010, 10:42 AM	#16
full.tang.halo Junior member Join Date: April 16, 2009 Location: Brooksville, FL Posts: 161	@essohbe rrages.com has a 522 clone for $100. http://rrages.com/sight/552clone/index.htm They deal in mostly stuff for .22 AR's and GSG-5/GSG522.

March 9, 2010, 10:46 AM	#17
flight954 Senior Member Join Date: November 1, 2006 Location: Cypress, Texas Posts: 933	Yes they are worth the money as is Aimpoint. I wouldn't buy a knock off. Save up and buy the real thing.