Aimpoint vs EOTECH: Game Changers

An EOTECH or Aimpoint sight on your gun will increase your hit probability and speed. I've seen this many times in my own shooting. In my opinion, a zero-magnification sight fits a Philosophy of Use (POU) wherein the gun will be mostly engaging targets 200 meters or less (which will be your predominant ranges in most situations for LEOs and Civs). They increase the effectiveness of your rifle and both are excellent. In this Nutnfancy table top review (a companion video to my previous in-field observations), I attempt to cover the overall features of both sights in detail. The EOTECH offers an excellent 65 MOA/1 MOA (inner dot) aiming reticle that is fast in pickup and yet precise. Their HWS sights are also rugged, waterproof (generally only to 33 static however, some models differ), have excellent night vision mode actuation, a wider field of view, and feature a built-in throw lever mounts. Downsides include: usually a heavier weight, less battery life (1000 hrs vs 50,000 hrs in these 553 and Comp ML3 models), switches that are harder to actuate with gloves, an inability to seal off the optics from mud, and often more bulk (depending on model). Newer EOTECH models promise to improve these shortcomings and GG&G offers flip-up lens covers. For example, the EOTECH Model 556 integrates a 5.56x45mm aiming reticle with useful holdover points; the Model XPS2 and 3 use are more compact, NV-capable sights weighing 8.8 oz and feature improved battery life. The AIMPOINT has amassed an impressive and highly touted track record in service with the US Army as the M68 CCO. However it too has a few downsides: more limited field of view (less of a player with both eyes open), no integrated mount on some models (resulting in extra cost), and slightly more tedious daylight mode activation (if model equipped with NV modes). However they provide a precise 2 MOA (or 4 MOA) aiming dot that is fast and easy to pickup. Other AIMPOINT upsides include: ability to be sealed off from water/blood/mud/manure with its included waterproof caps, waterproofness to 135 (static), lighter weight (ML3 = 7.8 oz), superior battery life, and tactile rotary switch (which I prefer). . Both have easy and solid adjustments for zeroing. Also both the EOTECH and AIMPOINTS are well-proven in combat conditions, extremely rugged, and highly regarded by their users. Some models of AIMPOINT will be less expensive than EOTECH offerings but in most cases the costs will be similar. The high costs on both sights will secure you a bet-your-life quality sight however they are exorbitant in my opinion, albeit the current entry fee to this quality level. However, such high costs are providing opportunity to an overseas manufacturer who, these days, can achieve identical quality levels at 50% less cost (witness FENIX flashlights). I do prefer the Aimpoints sights based on lighter weight (ML3), optical cap coverage (epic win), and sometimes lower cost. But either sight is outstanding in its ability to improve your shooting potential, especially under stress.