Best ACOG Sight For AR-15 in 2023
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In this guide I’m going to show you the best ACOG sight for AR-15. As everyone knows the ACOG scopes are much expensive compared to other Sight for AR15.
ACOG scopes are using by many optic experts and competitive shooters.
The main question always comes, why are acogs so expensive? And are acog scopes worth it or not.
I’ve sorted the ACOG Sight for AR15 by use. So whether you’re on a budget or need a solid AR-15 ACOG, you’ll find it here.
Let’s start!
An ACOG (Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight) scope is a compact and durable rifle optic designed for combat and tactical applications. It is manufactured by Trijicon that’s why it’s call trijicon acog, a renowned optics company. The ACOG scope is primarily used by military, law enforcement, and civilian shooters who require a reliable and rugged optic for various shooting scenarios. The rijicon acog 3.5×35 red crosshair is one of the best selling product.
ACOG scopes are characterized by their fixed magnification, typically ranging from 1.5x to 6x or higher, depending on the model. They feature an illuminated reticle, usually with a bullet drop compensator (BDC) or range-finding reticle, which allows for quick and accurate target engagement at various distances. The illumination is powered by either tritium or fiber optic technology, ensuring the reticle remains visible in low-light conditions without the need for batteries.
One of the key features of the ACOG scope is its robust construction. It is built to withstand recoil, harsh environmental conditions, and rough handling. The housing is made from durable materials, such as aircraft-grade aluminum, which provides excellent shock resistance and weatherproofing.
ACOG scopes are often equipped with a Bindon Aiming Concept (BAC), allowing users to engage targets with both eyes open for improved situational awareness. This feature is particularly useful in dynamic and close-quarters engagements.
While ACOG scopes are primarily used on military rifles such as the M4 and M16, they can also be mounted on civilian rifles, including AR-15 variants. Their compact size and fixed magnification make them well-suited for quick target acquisition and medium-range engagements.
It’s important to note that ACOG scopes tend to be more expensive than other types of optics due to their high-quality construction, durability, and advanced features. They are designed for professional use and are favored by those who prioritize ruggedness, reliability, and optical clarity in their optics.
Why Are ACOGs so Expensive
ACOG (Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight) scopes are often considered expensive compared to other types of optics, and there are a few reasons for this:
1. Advanced Technology: ACOG scopes incorporate advanced technology and high-quality components to deliver exceptional performance. They often feature durable construction, multi-coated lenses, tritium/fiber optic illumination systems, and sophisticated reticle designs. The use of these advanced technologies and materials drives up the cost of production.
2. Military-Grade Standards: ACOG scopes are designed to meet stringent military specifications and requirements. They undergo rigorous testing and must meet high standards for durability, reliability, and optical performance. The extensive testing and adherence to military-grade standards increase the manufacturing costs.
3. Limited Production: Trijicon, the manufacturer of ACOG scopes, focuses on producing high-quality optics in smaller quantities. This limited production approach can drive up the cost as economies of scale are not fully realized.
4. Durability and Ruggedness: ACOG scopes are built to withstand the rigors of combat and extreme conditions. They are made from robust materials such as aircraft-grade aluminum and are shockproof, waterproof, and resistant to temperature variations. The emphasis on durability and ruggedness adds to the overall cost of the optic.
5. Tritium Illumination: Many ACOG scopes feature tritium illumination, which provides battery-free illumination in low-light conditions. The inclusion of tritium vials and the associated licensing and regulatory requirements contribute to the higher cost.
6. Brand Reputation: Trijicon has established a strong reputation for producing high-quality optics, particularly in the military and law enforcement sectors. The brand recognition and reputation can command a premium price for their products.
It’s important to note that while ACOG scopes may have a higher upfront cost, they offer exceptional durability, reliability, and optical performance. They are built to withstand extreme conditions and provide reliable aiming solutions for professionals and serious shooters. Ultimately, the price of an ACOG reflects the quality, performance, and reputation associated with the brand and the technology incorporated into the optic.
Are ACOG Scopes Worth it
Whether an ACOG (Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight) scope is worth it depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Here are some factors to consider when evaluating the value of an ACOG scope:
1. Intended Use: ACOG scopes are designed for combat and tactical applications, where durability, reliability, and quick target acquisition are crucial. If you require a rugged and dependable optic for demanding shooting scenarios, such as military or law enforcement operations, an ACOG scope can be highly valuable.
2. Optics Performance: ACOG scopes are known for their optical clarity, brightness, and ability to perform well in various lighting conditions. If you prioritize exceptional optical performance and the ability to quickly acquire targets, the quality of the glass, coatings, and reticle designs found in ACOG scopes can make them worth the investment.
3. Durability and Longevity: ACOG scopes are built to withstand extreme conditions and provide years of reliable service. If you need an optic that can handle recoil, rough handling, and adverse environmental factors without compromising performance, the durability of an ACOG scope can be a worthwhile investment.
4. Battery-Free Illumination: ACOG scopes often feature tritium or fiber optic illumination, eliminating the need for batteries. This ensures that the reticle remains visible in low-light conditions, enhancing reliability and reducing the risk of battery failure. If battery-free illumination is important to you, an ACOG scope can be a valuable option.
5. Budget Considerations: ACOG scopes are typically more expensive than other types of optics due to their advanced technology, military-grade construction, and reputation for performance. Consider your budget and whether the features and capabilities of an ACOG scope align with your shooting needs and justify the higher cost.
Best ACOG Sight for AR15
1. Trijicon ACOG 5.5 X 50: Best Overall
The Trijicon ACOG 5.5×50 is a popular model of ACOG (Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight) scope. Here are some key features of the Trijicon ACOG 5.5×50:
1. Magnification: The ACOG 5.5×50 has a fixed magnification of 5.5x, meaning the target appears 5.5 times larger than with the naked eye. This magnification allows for better target identification and engagement at medium to long distances.
2. Objective Lens: The objective lens has a diameter of 50mm, which allows for improved light transmission and a wider field of view. The larger objective lens also enhances low-light performance.
3. Illuminated Reticle: The ACOG 5.5×50 features an illuminated reticle, typically in the form of a Chevron or Crosshair reticle. The illumination is powered by tritium and fiber optics, providing battery-free illumination in low-light conditions.
4. BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator): The ACOG 5.5×50 often incorporates a BDC reticle or other range-finding features. These reticles are designed to compensate for bullet drop at various distances, allowing for more accurate aiming without the need for manual adjustments.
5. Bindon Aiming Concept (BAC): The ACOG 5.5×50 utilizes the Bindon Aiming Concept, which enables shooters to keep both eyes open while using the optic. This promotes better situational awareness and rapid target acquisition.
6. Rugged Construction: Like other ACOG scopes, the ACOG 5.5×50 is built with a durable and robust construction. It is designed to withstand recoil, shock, extreme temperatures, and harsh environments. The optic is waterproof and fog-resistant.
7. Fiber Optic and Tritium Illumination: The combination of fiber optic and tritium illumination ensures that the reticle remains visible in all lighting conditions. The fiber optic system gathers ambient light, while the tritium vial provides illumination in low-light or no-light situations.
8. Eye Relief and Eye Box: The ACOG 5.5×50 offers a generous eye relief, allowing for comfortable and safe shooting positions. It also provides a forgiving eye box, meaning the shooter has more flexibility in their eye position without losing the sight picture.
The Trijicon ACOG 5.5×50 has several pros and cons to consider when evaluating its suitability for your shooting needs:
Pros:
1. Durability: The ACOG 5.5×50 is built to withstand the rigors of combat and harsh environments. It is rugged, shockproof, waterproof, and fog-resistant, ensuring reliable performance in adverse conditions.
2. Optics Performance: The high-quality glass and multi-coated lenses of the ACOG 5.5×50 deliver excellent optical clarity, brightness, and contrast. The 5.5x magnification provides improved target identification and engagement at medium to long distances.
3. Illuminated Reticle: The illuminated reticle of the ACOG 5.5×50 allows for quick target acquisition and aiming in various lighting conditions. The tritium and fiber optic illumination system provides battery-free illumination, ensuring the reticle remains visible in low-light situations.
4. BDC Reticle: The ACOG 5.5×50 often incorporates a BDC reticle, which allows for accurate aiming at different distances without the need for manual adjustments. This simplifies the aiming process and enables quick and precise shots.
5. Bindon Aiming Concept (BAC): The ACOG 5.5×50 utilizes the BAC, enabling shooters to keep both eyes open for enhanced situational awareness and rapid target acquisition.
Cons:
1. Fixed Magnification: The fixed 5.5x magnification of the ACOG 5.5×50 may limit its versatility in certain shooting scenarios. It may not be optimal for close-quarters engagements or situations requiring rapid target acquisition.
2. Cost: ACOG scopes, including the 5.5×50 model, are known for their quality and performance but come with a higher price tag compared to other optics. The cost can be a limiting factor for shooters on a tight budget.
3. Eye Relief: The eye relief of the ACOG 5.5×50 may be less forgiving compared to other scopes. It requires the shooter to maintain the correct eye position for optimal sight picture and comfort.
4. Limited Features: The ACOG 5.5×50 is primarily designed as a combat optic and may lack certain advanced features found in other scopes, such as adjustable magnification or parallax adjustment.
Trijicon TA55A ACOG 5.5 X 50 Red Chevron BAC
About this item
· ACOG 5.5×50 Red Chevron BAC Flattop.308 Reticle includes flat top adapter
· The chevron reticle is designed to be zeroed using the tip at 100 meters The width of the chevron at the base is 5.53 MOA which is 19 in. at 300 meters This allows range estimation for silhouette target
The Trijicon ACOG 3.5×35 is a compact and versatile optic designed for various shooting applications. Here are some key features of the Trijicon ACOG 3.5×35:
1. Magnification: The ACOG 3.5×35 offers a fixed magnification of 3.5x, providing a balance between close-quarters engagement and medium-range shooting. The magnification allows for improved target identification and precision.
2. Objective Lens: The 35mm objective lens provides a good combination of light gathering capability and a wide field of view. This allows for better target acquisition and situational awareness.
3. Illuminated Reticle: The ACOG 3.5×35 features an illuminated reticle, typically in the form of a Chevron or Crosshair reticle. The illumination is powered by a combination of tritium and fiber optics, providing battery-free illumination in any lighting condition.
4. Bindon Aiming Concept (BAC): The ACOG utilizes the Bindon Aiming Concept, allowing shooters to keep both eyes open while using the optic. This promotes better situational awareness and rapid target acquisition.
5. Rugged Construction: The ACOG 3.5×35 is built with a durable and robust construction, making it shockproof, waterproof, and resistant to temperature variations. It can withstand the demands of combat or harsh environmental conditions.
6. Bullet Drop Compensation (BDC): Many ACOG models, including the 3.5×35, incorporate a BDC reticle or other range-finding features. These reticles provide aiming points or stadia lines that help compensate for bullet drop at various distances.
7. Tritium and Fiber Optic Illumination: The combination of tritium and fiber optics ensures that the reticle remains visible in all lighting conditions. The fiber optic system gathers ambient light, while the tritium vial provides illumination in low-light or no-light situations.
8. Eye Relief and Eye Box: The ACOG 3.5×35 offers a generous eye relief and a forgiving eye box, allowing for comfortable and flexible shooting positions while maintaining a clear sight picture.
These features make the Trijicon ACOG 3.5×35 a popular choice for those seeking a compact and rugged optic with a fixed magnification for medium-range shooting. Its durable construction, reliable performance, and battery-free illumination system make it well-suited for military, law enforcement, and civilian applications.
Here are some pros and cons of the Trijicon ACOG 3.5×35:
Pros:
1. Rugged and Durable: The ACOG 3.5×35 is built to withstand harsh conditions and offers excellent durability. It is shockproof, waterproof, and resistant to fog, making it reliable in challenging environments.
2. Compact and Lightweight: The compact size and lightweight design of the ACOG 3.5×35 make it suitable for various platforms, including rifles and carbines. It doesn’t add excessive weight or bulk to the firearm.
3. Battery-Free Illumination: The ACOG 3.5×35 features an illuminated reticle powered by a combination of tritium and fiber optics. This battery-free illumination ensures the reticle remains visible in any lighting condition, without worrying about battery life or failure.
4. Clear Optics: The ACOG 3.5×35 offers clear and high-quality optics with multi-coated lenses. It provides excellent light transmission, sharpness, and contrast, allowing for a clear sight picture and precise aiming.
5. Fixed Magnification: The fixed 3.5x magnification offers a good balance between close-quarters shooting and medium-range engagements. It provides sufficient magnification for target identification and engagement at moderate distances.
6. BDC Reticle: The ACOG 3.5×35 often incorporates a bullet drop compensating (BDC) reticle. This allows for accurate aiming at various distances without the need for manual adjustments, making it convenient for fast-paced shooting scenarios.
Cons:
1. Limited Field of View: The 3.5x magnification of the ACOG 3.5×35 reduces the field of view compared to lower magnification optics or red dot sights. This may slightly limit situational awareness and target acquisition at close quarters.
2. Higher Cost: ACOG scopes, including the 3.5×35 model, tend to have a higher price point compared to some other optics on the market. The advanced features, durable construction, and renowned brand name contribute to the higher cost.
3. Fixed Magnification: While the fixed magnification of 3.5x offers versatility in many shooting scenarios, it may not be suitable for long-range precision shooting or specialized applications that require higher levels of magnification.
4. Eye Relief: The ACOG 3.5×35 has a shorter eye relief compared to some other scopes, which may require shooters to maintain a specific eye position for optimal sight picture and eye relief.
Trijicon ACOG 3.5×35 Riflescopes
About this item
· BATTERY-FREE ILLUMINATION: Features a tritium/fiber optic illuminated reticle that automatically adjusts the brightness based on available light
The Trijicon 4×32 ACOG (Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight) is a popular model known for its durability and optical performance. Here are some key features of the Trijicon 4×32 ACOG:
1. Fixed Magnification: The ACOG 4×32 has a fixed magnification of 4x, providing a clear and precise sight picture at medium ranges. This magnification level allows for effective target engagement and improved accuracy.
2. Objective Lens: The 32mm objective lens offers a good balance between light gathering capability and a compact size. It provides a bright and clear image, even in low-light conditions.
3. Battery-Free Illumination: The ACOG 4×32 uses a combination of tritium and fiber optics for illumination, eliminating the need for batteries. This ensures that the reticle remains visible in any lighting condition, from bright daylight to low-light environments.
4. Rugged Construction: The ACOG 4×32 is built to withstand the rigors of combat and harsh environments. It is shockproof, waterproof, and resistant to fog, making it reliable and durable in demanding conditions.
5. Bindon Aiming Concept (BAC): The ACOG utilizes the Bindon Aiming Concept, allowing for both eyes open shooting. This promotes better situational awareness and faster target acquisition.
6. BDC Reticle: The ACOG 4×32 often features a bullet drop compensating (BDC) reticle. This reticle allows for accurate aiming at various distances without the need for manual adjustments, making it convenient for engaging targets at different ranges.
7. Tritium and Fiber Optic Illumination: The combination of tritium and fiber optics provides bright and visible illumination in all lighting conditions. The fiber optics gather ambient light, while the tritium vial ensures illumination in low-light or no-light situations.
8. Eye Relief and Eye Box: The ACOG 4×32 offers a comfortable eye relief and a forgiving eye box, allowing for quick target acquisition and a clear sight picture even with slight head movement.
Here are some pros and cons of the Trijicon 4×32 ACOG:
Pros:
1. Durability: The Trijicon 4×32 ACOG is built to withstand tough conditions and environments. It is shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof, ensuring reliable performance even in challenging situations.
2. Clear Optics: The 4×32 configuration provides a clear and sharp sight picture with minimal distortion. The high-quality glass and multi-coated lenses of the ACOG deliver excellent light transmission, contrast, and clarity.
3. Battery-Free Illumination: The ACOG utilizes tritium and fiber optic technology for its reticle illumination. This means there is no need for batteries, and the reticle remains visible in all lighting conditions, including low-light or no-light situations.
4. BDC Reticle: The ACOG 4×32 often features a bullet drop compensating (BDC) reticle. This allows for precise aiming at different distances without the need for manual adjustments, making it convenient for engaging targets at various ranges.
5. Bindon Aiming Concept (BAC): The ACOG employs the Bindon Aiming Concept, which allows shooters to keep both eyes open for improved situational awareness and rapid target acquisition.
6. Compact and Lightweight: The ACOG 4×32 is relatively compact and lightweight compared to some other magnified optics. It adds minimal weight to the rifle and doesn’t significantly affect the balance or maneuverability.
Cons:
1. Fixed Magnification: The 4x magnification of the ACOG may not be suitable for all shooting scenarios. It offers limited versatility compared to optics with adjustable magnification, particularly for engaging targets at very close or long ranges.
2. Limited Field of View: The higher magnification results in a narrower field of view compared to lower magnification scopes or red dot sights. This can slightly limit situational awareness and target acquisition at close quarters.
3. Eye Relief: The eye relief of the ACOG 4×32 may not be as forgiving as some other scopes. Shooters need to maintain the correct eye position to obtain a full sight picture and avoid shadowing or vignetting.
4. Cost: ACOG scopes, including the 4×32 model, tend to have a higher price point compared to some other optics on the market. The advanced features, durable construction, and reputation of the brand contribute to the higher cost.
Trijicon 4×32 ACOG
Riflescope with Green Dual Illuminated
About this item
· BATTERY-FREE ILLUMINATION: Features a tritium/fiber optic illuminated reticle that automatically adjusts the brightness based on available light
The Trijicon ACOG 3×30 is a compact and versatile optic known for its durability and performance. Here’s a review of the Trijicon ACOG 3×30:
The ACOG 3×30 offers a fixed magnification of 3x, which strikes a balance between close-quarters shooting and mid-range engagements. The magnification level provides enough detail and target acquisition capability for most shooting scenarios.
One of the standout features of the ACOG 3×30 is its compact and rugged design. It is built to withstand harsh conditions and is shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof. The housing is made of aircraft-grade aluminum, ensuring durability and reliability in the field.
The optics of the ACOG 3×30 are of excellent quality. The multi-coated lenses deliver a clear and bright sight picture with good contrast, even in low-light conditions. The generous eye relief and wide field of view allow for comfortable shooting and enhanced situational awareness.
The reticle options available for the ACOG 3×30 vary, including crosshair, chevron, and horseshoe reticles, with some models featuring illuminated options. The illumination is battery-free, powered by tritium and fiber optics, ensuring constant visibility in any lighting condition.
The ACOG 3×30 also incorporates a bullet drop compensating (BDC) reticle, allowing for accurate aiming at different distances without manual adjustments. This feature is particularly useful for shooters who need to quickly engage targets at varying ranges.
While the ACOG 3×30 is a reliable and high-performance optic, it’s important to note that it has a fixed magnification, which may not suit all shooting scenarios. Additionally, the ACOG series tends to be on the pricier side, reflecting the quality and reputation of the brand.
Overall, the Trijicon ACOG 3×30 is a highly regarded optic that excels in durability, optical performance, and reliable functionality. It is a trusted choice for professionals and enthusiasts who require a compact and rugged optic for mid-range shooting applications.
Here are some pros and cons of the Trijicon ACOG 3×30:
Pros:
1. Durability: The ACOG 3×30 is built to withstand harsh conditions and is known for its ruggedness. It is shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof, making it suitable for use in challenging environments.
2. Optics Quality: The ACOG 3×30 features high-quality glass and multi-coated lenses that deliver a clear and bright sight picture. The optics provide excellent light transmission, clarity, and contrast, even in low-light conditions
3. Compact Size: The compact design of the ACOG 3×30 makes it ideal for rifles and carbines, offering a balance between size and performance. It doesn’t add excessive weight or bulk to the firearm.
4. Battery-Free Illumination: The ACOG 3×30 utilizes tritium and fiber optics for reticle illumination, eliminating the need for batteries. This ensures constant visibility of the reticle in all lighting conditions, without worrying about battery life or failure.
5. Bullet Drop Compensating (BDC) Reticle: The ACOG 3×30 often incorporates a BDC reticle, allowing for accurate aiming at various distances without the need for manual adjustments. This simplifies the aiming process and enables quick and precise shots.
6. Eye Relief and Field of View: The ACOG 3×30 offers a comfortable eye relief and a wide field of view, allowing for quick target acquisition and enhanced situational awareness.
Cons:
1. Fixed Magnification: The 3x magnification of the ACOG 3×30 may not provide enough versatility for all shooting scenarios. It may not be optimal for close-quarters engagements or situations requiring long-range precision.
2. Limited Eye Relief: The eye relief of the ACOG 3×30 may be less forgiving compared to some other scopes, requiring shooters to maintain the correct eye position for optimal sight picture and comfort.
3. Cost: ACOG scopes, including the 3×30 model, tend to be more expensive compared to some other optics on the market. The premium price reflects the high-quality construction, reliable performance, and renowned brand reputation.
4. Limited Adjustment Options: The ACOG 3×30 is designed for zeroing at a specific distance and may have limited adjustment options for windage and elevation. This may not be ideal for shooters who require extensive adjustability for precise shot placement.
ACOG 3 X 30 Scope Dual Illuminated Horseshoe/Dot
About this item
· The new 3x30mm model is designed for law enforcement and military applications where the combination of ample magnification, low light capability and long eye relief make the TA33 the Trijicon ACOG of choice
