In my experience through thousands of hours and many reps and drills, ive found that magnifiers are very usefull for magnifying the image so that you can see more far away.
I like magnifiers because they stack. I run four 5x magnifiers inline to hit a cool 625x for long range. Works great with an EXPS3.0. I like the flexibility of running 125x or 5x too, though I don't really have a use case for the 25x mode. Good video.
It’s wrong!!! 🤬 So wrong🤯 They must match, just like your offset red dot and LPVO if using the same mount! (It’s acceptable if mounted separately) Is there a 12 Step Program for this? I need help… 12 steps is a lot (4 or 5 seems more plausible) before my ADHD overrides curing my OCD
SAME! The sig Juliet 6 on my battle rifle scar set up… i use a red dot because my city is urban and very close but since its urban… a engagement can go from 20 feet to 200 yards pretty fast
@@pablo4yu I run the Romeo 5 XDR, and the Juliet 4 on mine. I would like to step up to the Juliet 6 and move the 4 over to my .450 build. How is the Juliet 6?
it's a pretty bulky setup, sure. I paired my 8T with a Holosun 3xt, and between those two and the rear bui, I actually have to bridge the 8T onto the handguard (it's fine - I'm running an Aero M4E1 enhanced upper and handguard, so there's no gap and it's rock-solid, basically monolithic).
Went with a PA MICRO 3X magnifier. It's pretty light and offsets the heavy 8T a bit. But the whole thing is bombproof and a faxon gunnerweight barrel it's not as heavy as the M4 I carried.
As someone who ran a magnifier and eotech for a long time I have always treated it as easier to slap a target a 200 while keeping the holo for closer in rangers (200 is about the longest shot I can find being a east coaster)
@@thomascaston4644 I still run that, tho I have dabbled in LPVOs. I guess I should proof read that comment it sounds past tense when it wasn't meant to be.
I remember the first time i saw one was in Modern Warfare 3, the first mission Black Tuesday. It was CRAZY to me that you could go from wide view red dot to magnified like the Acog from the last game. To think one day id be able to have them on my OWN rifle? Couldnt even imagine it as a kid.
@fujimi715 I wanna save up for NODS so I can larp as Private Jackson. Remember defending War Pig at night and its just insurgents everywhere while you and your squad are takin em down in the dark?
@alastor8091 yep. Now I have NODs, IR, Block II M4A1, Eotech and magnifier. But total of all that was over $10,000. Have to work hard at a big boy job to have this shit in real life
The majority of people truly run a red dot magnifier because they have 20/70 vision from sitting in front of their PC hopped up on 2 liters of diet coke and angrily destroying their keyboard on internet forums and shopping for Amazon Special accessories
I had an Eotech magnifier setup while overseas. I mainly kept it in a pouch on my PC, but I really enjoyed the setup when actually running it. It helps with keeping identifying and engaging targets throw little cracks and murderholes at closer distances.
I had been using a primary arms magnifier forever until I upgraded to eotech, and it was far and away the best budget option I have ever experienced. That being said the MF was so heavy.
This is finally the video about magnifiers that the world needed, from someone who has actual perspective on the many offerings and actually used them. Invaluable.
Why not just get a prism optic at that point? I meant dont get me wrong I get what your saying. But if it's only to focus the dot, well then I have to say just get a 3x micro prism.
Not to focus on the dot specifically but the diopter clears up the total image in some cases for those with eye challenges. It’s a very effective system once you practice. It’s all just a matter of personal preference I guess. My setup is all holosun with acss reticle so not looking at just a simple dot. Just my .02
I have an astigmatism that's not bad enough for correction but still makes odd effects. It's usable but having that magnifier able to crisp up the reticle is nice, especially since it enlarges the dot. I use the PA 25mm cqb reticle and the chevron and drop dots are all crisp with a juliet 3. Under 1x the chevron might as well just be a dot to me without squinting hard or turning it down so low it gets lost. Same issue on a 2 moa dot, but the chevron gives a more precise aiming point instead of having to zero the top of the dot, dope the bottom of it etc.
There’s a trick to not bumping stuff with your nods called the lower 1/3rd for your night vision. Basically you move the tubes up on your eyes so your eyes are looking through the bottom portion of your tubes. This allows you to avoid the optics bumps more easily and also puts the tubes in a position where you can easily see your surroundings through your regular vision. Once I learned this night vision stuff became so much easier
4:53 I've had a good experience with the Eotech G45 5x/unity mount combo. Clarity is excellent. Eye box is slightly less forgiving compared to the 3x. This isn't a problem for me; the holographic sight works very well out to 300. And if I'm spotting or reaching out to 4-600 then the time to target aquisition isn't as important as target ID and shot placement. This makes it a great in- conjunction- with tool to pair with your holographic sight to maximize your hit rate out to 600.
@assclapper2231 I wish more guntubers would focus on the target ID 200 and in, as you mentioned. In my neighborhood, 200 is about the max shot. But the 5x is the difference between identifying a bad guy vs, sheriff, police, EMT, etc.
@@philliplopez1501Most civilian defensive shootings aren't greater than 25 meters. Good luck convincing a district attorney that you had to ventilate someone at 200 meters lol.
Having 4 lenses in Alaska turned out to be a major downside. Not only is it more glass to accidently fog when you breath near them, but when you start playing in the snow you spend more time trying to clear them than shooting.
This is important information I don't think I've ever seen anywhere. So day, night AND rain AND snow training are important. Not just sunny day with the boys and NODS training for the Instagram.
Now that is a good TH-cam video. A well written script, a well spoken person speaking, and concise information delivered in a bite-sized chunk that passes on good stuff quickly and efficiently. There was even a bit of humor in it. Great job.
your point on "flip-to-center" getting in the way of NODs is super true. BUT...When nods come out of my pouch on my kit to go on my head, the quick release of the magnifier takes off the magnifier and goes in my nods pouch with the moon is out. So, good way to run a flip to center when the sun goes down and nods go on
Solid video. Spot on about actual real-world uses for a magnifier. People brag about shooting a bright white target the size of a truck door placed in front of a perfect green background that doesn't move and think they will be able to engage targets past 300.
A few notes on Magnifiers. - if you have a red dot on an AR/AK there is almost no excuse for not having a magnifier. A big part of “combat” is just sitting around “Pulling security” and “observing.” A magnifier allows you to do that better. You will go from “hey theres a dude out there” to “1 enemy pax wearing x carrying xx.” It helps with PID. I used to just run a dot and until i saw this real world. Now my personal or work guns all have some form of magnification. -Zeroing, Hop is correct that magnifiers do not require a formal zero. However, zero you dot, center the dot in magnifier, and then I like to shoot a confirmation group with the magnifier. -the quick detach is nice for when you need to look at something and dont want to point your gun at them. If you dont have one. Seriously consider it. The G33 and micro 3x by vortex are nice
I traded my Vortex 3x for the 6x after having used it to 300 yards because my optic was the PA Slx 1x Cyclops and while I could make the shots out of a 308 with no magnification up to about 200 yards I didn't feel like I got enough of a visual boost by using the 3x magnification. The 6x not only helped with that and helped me shoot clearer, farther, but it also made the distance markings on the sight itself a lot more usable.
I have Eotech G45 and the 5x doesnt bother me at all. I think the eyebox is ok for a magnifier. The eyebox on all magnifiers leaves something to be desired so between the 3's and 5's we are sort of splitting hairs. The 3'x may be better but by how much? Is it worth the extra magnification? Questions you have to answer for yourself. I will say the Eotech 5's are much better than the Juliet 5's as far as eye box - clarity is night and day. Eotech 5's are also better than the Juliet 4's from my experience. With that said I have looked behind a 6x and to me - just my opinion - the disparity in usability between the Vortex 6x and the Eotech 5x was vast. The 6 was hard to stay behind. I like the extra magnification when needed and if you are trying to be more precise than hitting man size target the magnification really helps.
The G45 has better eye relief that the 33 actually. It’s a pretty bad ass magnifier. I don’t own one but have shot all three eotech magnifiers. I stuck with the g33 as it’s enough for my MK18.
@@Heywoodthepeckerwood The G45 does have better eye relief but the eye box on the G33 is better, but by how much really in both instances? We are splitting hairs on both. Both are really good - it comes down to which one you want, and how much magnification you think you need.
Really like the Juliet 4 magnifier personally. Works great on my setup for my intended use case, but I think it’s important that everyone carefully consider their intended use case and their own capabilities before deciding on an optics system as that lets you make the best decision for what you’ll need it for.
The secret meta is that the holosun 403 with the acss has the same mount height as a t2 so when you mount it in a flip to center setup it actually all lines up instead of the red dot standing proud like the other t2 clones. The bdc also track 9mm really well from close to far with a 25yrd zero in my use
The RAIN. I never thought about the rain experience. I'm from Florida, and it thunderstorms every afternoon around 4. every. day. without question. thank you for that bit.
I have a 6x magnifier and completely agree with you. I just have it because it's fun to mess around with, not because it's practical. I just think they are neat
LPVOs aren't that bad up close, it's the same concept as shooting a dot. Turn on the illumination and it's a superior LED red dot. Don't even get me started on parallax it's identical.
I've found that, asthetics aside, precise vertical alignment between red dot and magnifier isn't necessary. Like more than a half inch off didn't change parallax or usability. And furthermore, magnifiers visually clean up red dots that look wonky due to my astigmatism. I set the diopter, put a strip of gaffer tape on it, and it's crisp dot reticles forever.
@@SJ-km5ly OP here has used his gear, knows its short comings and afaik, is proficient with his red dot/magnifier setup. therefore, he looks cool. using your gear and being proficient with it, means you'll look cool, and looking cool is most important.
9:41 I've found the Larue RISR to help in this greatly. Even without the magnifier a cheek riser is a significant aid in getting behind a tall dot quickly and consistently
I'm mildly far-sighted and never wear glasses. Dots always seem the tiniest bit fuzzy. Not enough to matter inside 200 yards. Past that, the clarity provided by a 3x is a noticeable upgrade. It's really just adding to your ability to PID targets and make slightly more precise hits. I disagree with Hop on 5x magnifiers with one caveat. I borrowed one from a friend, and it felt like cheating compared to the 3x. I did also grow up hunting with a variable power scope that was 4.5x at the bottom end, so I got pretty good at quickly finding targets with a narrower FOV. It's a trainable downside, but only a slight disadvantage. Honestly, it's a good trade-off if you're already good at making expedient hits to 150-200 without magnification.
Holosun HM3x 1/3 spacer height lines up fine with Sig micro red dots on Scalarworks 1/3 mount. Just a data point. (Btw Holosun is the OEM for Chinese Sig dots, so this is substantially compliant with the “don’t mix makers” axiom, for those who care.)
Also had no problem getting the HM3x w/ spacer to line up with a buddy’s lower 1/3 Eotech (EXPS3 I think). Just a few clicks up on the magnifier’s elevation turret and reticle was centered.
The big advantage is you can completely take off the magnifier and have an ultra light rifle, while not worried about losing zero etc. so those new microprisms are sexy but even though they come in with a piggyback red dot at lighter than a red dot magnifier combo, you can still make the red dot mag combo lighter by taking off the magnifier completely if not needed for the mission. Yes the prism does have better reticles and etched no battery etc.
Sooooo....I have a 3x mag behind a 1x prism. Works extremely well for me..... I prefer the etched reticle and I love shooting at 1x for larger targets....
One interesting thing about the G45 magnifier + Exps models is that you can set it up for absolute cowitness height but it still works with the 1/3 cowitness eotech because of the large window size. Makes the magnifier more flush with the exps and it doesn't catch on stuff as easily.
I am from the old Marine Corps guard, pre-ACOG, got out in 2004. One of my MOSs was PMI (Primary Marksmanship Instructor). Marines, other than Recon, Force Recon, MARSOC, Scout/Snipers, throughout our history ONLY ever used iron sights. Our KD course went from 200 to 500 yards. Generally Marines are very good riflemen, at least the old Marine guard was with just iron sights. I am not saying there is a right or wrong optics set-up. I am only highlighting that I think too many people skip leg day when it comes to shooting with iron sights or a red dot at distances we Marines, other military branches, and private citizens used to regularly shoot at. LPVO have become a crutch IMO, not saying don't use them, I am saying don't disadvantage yourselves by ONLY running the envogue LPVO set-ups only. Train with all of the optical options you have on your rifles. Ask yourselves this, If you have back-up iron sights do you train regularly with them as much you many of yo shoot with LPVOs?? And yes, Hop is absolutely right about also training beyond KD. 👍
SemperFi - Got out in 1992!! I'm deadly out to 500M with iron sites, and struggle very much with scopes. The corps taught us too well. My platforms rely heavily on irons. 4 years, 4 expert badges exceeding 235 pts!
As a Marine that was in mid 2007 and started with irons then got an ACOG later I have some opinions on this. Yes, you can train with irons and unmagnified optics, but you can't PID a target or observe it without magnification. You also can't easily verify a hit at 500 yards without magnification.
The circle on a circle-dot can be used as a rangefinder - but it's really only effective to about 400yd. Maybe more if you have the additional drop dots - maybe. That's the whole reason they make them 68 moa.
I started off with the Primary Arms 3x magnifier and the Holosun 503g (chevron plus three dots) thinking I'd upgrade later, but I never needed to. Strelok says that will get me to 525yd with my 14.5" in 55gr and a 50yd zero. The magnifier is good for better seeing the dots, plus all the other stuff Hop said. I noticed the S&W M&P 15-22 in the video, and my wife has that with the same optics combo (3x and 503g). That might be the best use of the setup, to get a .22 out to 175yd on the reticle.
so much truth in this video, from realistic target visibility to aiming and light stuff getting in the way of NODS, to crap getting wet, dirty dusty and losing vision. all stuff only embraced in the field.
Good explanation, magnifier doesn't allow you to shoot farther, it allows you to see what you are shooting better. I disagree with FTC though because I gave up on passive night vision aiming, I prefer to just use my laser as needed and since I'm mainly focused on CQB it works. Any long shots at night and I'm using my thermal scope.
I’ve been wicked happy with the Juliet 5 especially for the money. Love the fact that you brought up the distance from magnifier to optic not mattering.
I don't have any issues with my G33 with the Unity FTC mount when it is stowed away in the center and I want to passively aim with my NODs and same with my ACOG TA-110 with a piggybacked ACRO P2. Maybe it has to do with your stock placement on your AR, I have mine fully extended out on a standard buffer tube.
feel like we need a follow up to this about why some red dots work and don't work with magnifiers. I know you have touched on this with emitter location in some of your videos.
Side note from personal experience, I do recommend the -2 reticle _if you're already decided on an EOTech_ . EOTech themselves say the -4 is pretty much _only_ for use under magnification as without it the dots all just blur together. the -2 should be used under magnification but can be used without it.
From what I’ve read, it alsodepends on your eyes. Some folks have the dots kind of blurring together issue with only two dots in the -2 as well, apparently. That said, i will probably get one soon and sell it if i don’t like it. I would like to have the extra reference point to work with at longer ranges! (Both with and without a magnifier)
@10:34 This is why I prefer the Wilcox magnifier mount. Allows you to quick detach the magnifier when not needed e.g., when running NV, and it's generally low profile and doesn't get in the way of your FOV.
The argument for a lower power magnifier makes a lot of sense but in my case, I paired a G45.STS with an EXPS3-4 and have been really happy with it especially for pushing maximum range. After shooting this combo for a while now, it feels very natural and now when I pick up a 3X magnifier with an EXPS3, it feels really weird to me. Still usable, but weird. Like most things, I think it has a lot to do with what you get accustomed to.
Hey, @Hoplopfheil! Good topic! Also, two good points you covered that have plagued me: co-witnessing both red dots and magnifiers and matching manufactures of both red dots and magnifiers. Covering those two issues helped me.
I have the g45 5x magnifier and really like it. I'm usually never shooting with my magnifier standing up, only resting on something. So I found 5x much more useful than a 3x which 3x doesn't seem like a massive gain imo to be worth it. Yeah the eyebox and eye relief aren't as good as an LPVO or scope, but it's not that bad
I like the G45 as well, I only use it when I am having trouble seeing the target clearly against the background or just far away. It also fixes my astigmatism for precise shots / zeroing. Also because of the easy removal, 5x is enough magnification to be useful spotting game animals without pointing a gun at everything.
The g45 is a great magnifier with better relief than the Eotech 3x or the Juliet 4x. Not sure he confirmed some suspicions or made some feel relieved that their 3x was as good as it got.
I love your explanation of magnifiers. I tried looking everywhere else we’re good information but you’re all facts Speaking clear and concise no bullshit
EXPS3 With Micro Triplier is my favorite setup for 300Y and in . I run 2 Rigs . One listed above and the other is TA31CH-G ACOG with offset MRDS. I use my EXPS3 with Micro 3x all the time in 2Gun matches . I have 0 issues hitting reduced C zone target at 300Y . It will take 2 or 3 rounds to hit 8" plate at 300Y . Sometimes I can get it on first shot . I'm using YHM 1/2" Full Flat Top Riser . I'm also using IRREGULARS FEER BCM SOPMOD 0.5 Cheek Riser . I do not have issues picking up the 3x . I do not run NV . I just have long neck lol..
Man it's hard to find people that actually know what they're talking about and make good points. Subscribed. I admit I like my LVPO for various situations but I can't help but love my EoTech and 3X. For SHTF, in my area I don't need a 1-6X but it sure is nicer on the range!
@@SyrupCanuck I don't have experience with those mounts so i couldn't say. The EoTech magnifiers seem fine and clear but for the money, I'm happy to go with a cheaper magnifier. I risked it on Vortex and I'm happy. I haven't beat it up though, it's had a gentle life so far. I have the 2 dot EoTech too, my favorite. Good luck!
Something you didn't mention (and this is a VERY small detail, I know) was that putting a magnifier behind an Eotech isn't quite the same as putting one behind a red dot. With a red dot, the dot is also magnified. With an Eotech, the dot stays the same size - which means it practically goes from a 1 MOA dot to a 1/3 MOA dot that allows for more precise aiming (if using a 3x magnifier).
This is wrong. 1 moa stays 1 moa, 2 moa stays 2 moa. The entire image in front of the magnifier is magnified. EoTech reticle doesn’t magically shrink to 1/3 moa. It’s physics.
@ericstrauss9435 Eotech dots are actually infinitesimally small. The human eye resolves the dot at about 1 moa if you have good vision. This means that you can never magnify the dot, it will always stay the same size no matter how much magnification you put it through. Practically, this means that the dot "effecively" becomes 1/3 MOA when you put it through a 3x maginifer. The rest of the image is magnified, but the dot stays the same. In other words, the dot shrinks relative to the target. Yes, it is physics. Holograms are really complicated.
6:02 I respectfully beg to differ - at night, remove the magnifier entirely. You won't need it - it's too dark to see with magnifiers anyway due to exit pupils being smaller than your eyes and shit. Flip to center clunks your nods, completely true. But you'll never use magnifiers at night especially if you run nods. Unless you are willing to do some weird diopter adjustment witchcraft and shoot long-stocked floating your gun ahead of your tubes, aiming down magnifier with I2 is just not happening.
Can I get your take on the g45? Is it really that much harder to get behind than the g33? Was planning to pick one up for my 14.5 build but I've only used g33 in the past, so I'm wondering if I should just stick with that
i tried it out in a store once, didn't care for it and went with a pst gen 2 1-6. I've only used the Holosun HM3X on a buddy's rifle and I really enjoyed it (used it with a Sig Romeo 5, Eotech EXPS2-0, and Vortex UH1 Gen 2). To my eye the best magnified image was the Vortex, despite its slightly blue tint compared to the Eotech.
It is actually not harder at all. In fact the listed eye relief on the G33 is 2.2 inches and the G45 is 2.6 inches. The Juliet 4x is 2.55. Every user will struggle somewhat with eye relief with a magnifier. Its an inherent downside. When it is said that the "Sweetspot" is 3 or 4x that is for them and their purpose. Hitting a man size target at 300 yards you dont need more than that. The Juliet 4 eye relief is 2.55 again smaller than the Eotech 5x. The Vortex 3x is 2.64. Vortex 6x is 2.5 I run an Eotech g45 on two builds. It is crystal clear with, as we saw above better eye relief than the 2 3x's I listed....including Eotech. Personally I rather have the clearer more magnification. Another thing you will see is they "eye box" argument. Again all magnifiers struggle with eye box as well - up-down-left-right. I dont have the numbers but from my experience it is splitting hairs again. I never had a magnifier and said "oh this eye box is fantastic" - 3x or 5x....they all struggle.
@@paulyp9853well said so I have a X95 5.56 and an Eotech Xps2-2 on a unity riser. I'd like a unity FTC. So should I get the G45 then? This will be my 300m and in rifle
Ive been rocking an exps3-2 with the primary arms ranging magnifier on my 300blk in the 2.26 config and honestly its been doing really well. Im probably going to get the 4xt for my 11.5 whenever they become available again, and mount that in the 2.26 height as well. Then Ill just swap the magnifier between the two.
I believe it's because of size. Chop a lpvo in half and throw it behind your dot. "usually" from the scope caps to the rear lens is used to adjust magnification inside a scope which nearly takes up the whole top rail on MOST lpvos but I'm sure some big mfg is working on one or have tried it and not released it since the tech to make it small wasn't there yet? There's drawbacks to everything in each optic choice as hop opened with, I'm guessing a variable magnifier loses some benefits of a fixed mag.
I never really invested in the magnifier/RDS stack, however, I had one dropped into my lap this week. After I get back from Tactical Games, I might start dropping some reviews. The bit about the rain on 5 lenses... that's hard won knowledge right there. I feel like someone mentioned, or brought that up at some point in regards to pistol RDS' specifically the enclosed emitter ones.
A QD magnifier (not a shitty push button mount like the new Juliets) is a must. No need to zero so it's very easy to take it on and off. Realistically I am not shooting past 400 so it's perfect for me.
I don't have nods (no money), but for those who do, how do you feel about a cheek riser for the stock? That seems like it would give you a heads up position while maintaining a cheek weld. EDIT: Right. The Magpul ones interfere with the charging handle. But I think others like the Ape Defense or SC Irregulars (or a gimmicky-looking Larue sliding thingy) might clear it
Totally agree - getting hits with a red dot is pretty easy out to about 200. The 3x really helps with precision from 200-300. Depending on why you carry a rifle, it’s probably not often you are going to have a target present well enough past 400 that holdover red dots and a 6x are going to work very well… Use an lpvo if you are really going to be shooting past 300.
Cheapest and easiest way to join the giraffe gang with red-dot magnifier combo is to use the Unity Fast riser (the elevated pic section ones) and put both your RD and mag on it (using the mounts they already came with). Probably doesn’t fit many combos, but I know it works well with Holosun AEMS+Vortex micro 3x
The red dot is cool, I just don’t see a need for the front end luggage, I don’t have NODS, I don’t need a laser pointer, a light is fine but adding additional items on civilian arms, there’s just no point, im not raiding anything.
At my first two gun match I had a red dot only and had a 400 yard shot. My thoughts process was "just aim a little high". Guess what? It worked, first round hit. That being said I appreciate this video as I was just looking into a magnifier. I got the Romeo4 Pro at your recommendation for my night gun and a magnifier sounded like a good idea, given the low cost. The target id and low % shots make a lot of sense and that's why I got the Razor 1-6 HD that weighs as much as a boat anchor. rd/magnifier is a little lighter, but I can just take the magnifier off too making it a lot lighter... great for a nv gun that's already gonna be heavy.
Holosun hs507r and holosun hm3x is still my favourite budget combo for my rifle. You can find it for 400$ on palmetto state armory. If you do not care about circle dot then use the hs407r and save 20$. I can find the hm3x at 200$ EVERYWHERE. That combo paired with a set of MBUS, a streamlight protac hl-x and a magpul MS1 is still my favourite budget set-up for an ar 15. I usually ad a BCM PNT trigger to the mix and a breek arms ambi charging handle. The total is around $700-800. I like my IWI zion 15 for 830$ so in total i can have a colplete rifle for around $1600, the price of a high end rifle with NOTHING.
I prefer an LPVO. More useful reticle, weight isn’t that much different (depending on selection obviously), still got a useable reticle if the battery dies, and the unbalanced feel of a magnifier off to the side is something I just couldn’t get used to or cared for. Just my $0.02
Magnifiers are also useful because you can detach them quickly to look at cats closely
people always underestimate the pocket magnifier
Based
Yep, it's a cat. Now where where we?
Detach?
On god
In my experience through thousands of hours and many reps and drills, ive found that magnifiers are very usefull for magnifying the image so that you can see more far away.
This is not a piece of information to be shared lightly, sir. Terrorists may be reading this.
@@kursantstrzelecki2958Pretty sure this is an ITAR violation.
this is the hard hitting commentary I'm here for
Don’t forget it turns the weapon into fully auto, at least according to politicians lol
Now I really need one! 😄😄
I like magnifiers because they stack. I run four 5x magnifiers inline to hit a cool 625x for long range. Works great with an EXPS3.0. I like the flexibility of running 125x or 5x too, though I don't really have a use case for the 25x mode. Good video.
when you absolutely, positively need to confirm you want to send a round into a particular pore
With the quick flip of 4 switches I'm ready to engage targets on the moon
😆😂
🤣🤣🤣
makes sense for engaging targets on the moon
I'm proud of you, Hop. Putting that EOTech behind the SIG is a great first step to overcoming Compulsive Brand Matching Disorder (CBMD)
I’m actually recovering from this
It’s wrong!!! 🤬 So wrong🤯
They must match, just like your offset red dot and LPVO if using the same mount! (It’s acceptable if mounted separately) Is there a 12 Step Program for this? I need help… 12 steps is a lot (4 or 5 seems more plausible) before my ADHD overrides curing my OCD
Meanwhile Hop will unironically slap a holosun reflex on top of an acog 😂
No brand mixing lol.
@@Enjoyer.762I too am a purest.
I actually like the 6x for one specific use case. They’re great for zeroing red dots.
try out a binocular or monocular instead.
@@m4e1supremacy pretty sure he's using the magnifier to look through the optic while shooting too, not just to confirm hits
SAME! The sig Juliet 6 on my battle rifle scar set up… i use a red dot because my city is urban and very close but since its urban… a engagement can go from 20 feet to 200 yards pretty fast
Very interesting use case!
@@pablo4yu I run the Romeo 5 XDR, and the Juliet 4 on mine. I would like to step up to the Juliet 6 and move the 4 over to my .450 build.
How is the Juliet 6?
Romeo 8T with a Magnifier must feel like having a USS enterprise on the rifle
It's honestly not all that but it's noticeable lol
@@MiseryDuke69 After 2 weeks, it all feels the same. I agree. People amp shit up so much.
it's a pretty bulky setup, sure. I paired my 8T with a Holosun 3xt, and between those two and the rear bui, I actually have to bridge the 8T onto the handguard (it's fine - I'm running an Aero M4E1 enhanced upper and handguard, so there's no gap and it's rock-solid, basically monolithic).
Went with a PA MICRO 3X magnifier. It's pretty light and offsets the heavy 8T a bit. But the whole thing is bombproof and a faxon gunnerweight barrel it's not as heavy as the M4 I carried.
Which one?
As someone who ran a magnifier and eotech for a long time I have always treated it as easier to slap a target a 200 while keeping the holo for closer in rangers (200 is about the longest shot I can find being a east coaster)
What do you run now?
@@thomascaston4644 I still run that, tho I have dabbled in LPVOs. I guess I should proof read that comment it sounds past tense when it wasn't meant to be.
May fortune smile upon you and get you out west sometime soon! My range extends out 17 miles!
200yds? Come to the Appalachians and the southern plains of Central PA. Flat range as far as the eye can see right up to the mountains
@@smnkm4ehfer I'm from central pa but I'm in the mountains if you get an open area it's still hilly
I remember the first time i saw one was in Modern Warfare 3, the first mission Black Tuesday. It was CRAZY to me that you could go from wide view red dot to magnified like the Acog from the last game. To think one day id be able to have them on my OWN rifle? Couldnt even imagine it as a kid.
Nerd alert
Same. Saw the eotech and magnifier in Call of duty first. Later saw it in store for $1,200. Now I have it....
@@Rubeless I can't deny it 🙋🏿♂️
@fujimi715 I wanna save up for NODS so I can larp as Private Jackson. Remember defending War Pig at night and its just insurgents everywhere while you and your squad are takin em down in the dark?
@alastor8091 yep. Now I have NODs, IR, Block II M4A1, Eotech and magnifier. But total of all that was over $10,000. Have to work hard at a big boy job to have this shit in real life
The majority of people truly run a red dot magnifier because they have 20/70 vision from sitting in front of their PC hopped up on 2 liters of diet coke and angrily destroying their keyboard on internet forums and shopping for Amazon Special accessories
Literally me
@@Hoplopfheil right but you’re not fat and you actually go out and shoot
@@docternoblex>hop isn't skinny
You don't have to kiss ass that much
I am a dual citizen of the PC Gaming Master Race and the Prism Scope Master Race
This is me. I work in IT and am now super near sighted lmao.
The future is tiny little windshield wipers for all the lenses in the rain. Patent pending!
It worked for Volvo!
@@Hoplopfheil I knew I had gold.
Make sure it has the delay!
Or a rail mounted umbrella attachment. Raining? Just pop that sucker up
@@pablowentscobarTake it to Shark tank 😂
I had an Eotech magnifier setup while overseas. I mainly kept it in a pouch on my PC, but I really enjoyed the setup when actually running it. It helps with keeping identifying and engaging targets throw little cracks and murderholes at closer distances.
Romeo 8T with Unity FAST riser absolute cowitness and magnifier: when you want to PR curls while also crushing on the 100 yd flat range.
get off the flat range
@@ikemouser2580😢
Would be good if you did a segment on best to worst (or maybe just mediocre) magnifiers, mounting solutions, configurations, etc.
Yep I had that in this video but it was too long so I cut it out. It'll be in the sequel.
you could always spend your life savings and buy them all. 🤷♂
The aimpoint is expensive
I had been using a primary arms magnifier forever until I upgraded to eotech, and it was far and away the best budget option I have ever experienced. That being said the MF was so heavy.
@@personreanimationeye relief on the PA sucks!
This is finally the video about magnifiers that the world needed, from someone who has actual perspective on the many offerings and actually used them.
Invaluable.
Honestly the most overlooked feature is that you can focus your dot to your eye.
Why would you focus on the dot with a reflex sight?
Compensation for not wearing prescription glasses
Why not just get a prism optic at that point? I meant dont get me wrong I get what your saying. But if it's only to focus the dot, well then I have to say just get a 3x micro prism.
Not to focus on the dot specifically but the diopter clears up the total image in some cases for those with eye challenges. It’s a very effective system once you practice. It’s all just a matter of personal preference I guess. My setup is all holosun with acss reticle so not looking at just a simple dot. Just my .02
I have an astigmatism that's not bad enough for correction but still makes odd effects. It's usable but having that magnifier able to crisp up the reticle is nice, especially since it enlarges the dot.
I use the PA 25mm cqb reticle and the chevron and drop dots are all crisp with a juliet 3. Under 1x the chevron might as well just be a dot to me without squinting hard or turning it down so low it gets lost.
Same issue on a 2 moa dot, but the chevron gives a more precise aiming point instead of having to zero the top of the dot, dope the bottom of it etc.
There’s a trick to not bumping stuff with your nods called the lower 1/3rd for your night vision. Basically you move the tubes up on your eyes so your eyes are looking through the bottom portion of your tubes. This allows you to avoid the optics bumps more easily and also puts the tubes in a position where you can easily see your surroundings through your regular vision. Once I learned this night vision stuff became so much easier
Like bi-focals, but for night vision. Neat.
@@Borderline5440 exactly. Ofc the guys I learned it from also had terrible vision 😂. Works amazingly tho and I’ve been using it for years now
This!
I do this cause it makes it easier to use nods in the prone as well
4:53 I've had a good experience with the Eotech G45 5x/unity mount combo. Clarity is excellent. Eye box is slightly less forgiving compared to the 3x. This isn't a problem for me; the holographic sight works very well out to 300. And if I'm spotting or reaching out to 4-600 then the time to target aquisition isn't as important as target ID and shot placement. This makes it a great in- conjunction- with tool to pair with your holographic sight to maximize your hit rate out to 600.
@assclapper2231 I wish more guntubers would focus on the target ID 200 and in, as you mentioned. In my neighborhood, 200 is about the max shot. But the 5x is the difference between identifying a bad guy vs, sheriff, police, EMT, etc.
@@philliplopez1501Most civilian defensive shootings aren't greater than 25 meters. Good luck convincing a district attorney that you had to ventilate someone at 200 meters lol.
I was going to go sig 8t with g45
I have a Eotech Xps2-2 on a unity riser and thinking G43 or G45 with unity FTC. Thoughts?
@@SyrupCanuckI’d go with the 33 or the 45
Having 4 lenses in Alaska turned out to be a major downside. Not only is it more glass to accidently fog when you breath near them, but when you start playing in the snow you spend more time trying to clear them than shooting.
doesn’t matter lol lenses acclimatize themselves 🤣
This is important information I don't think I've ever seen anywhere. So day, night AND rain AND snow training are important. Not just sunny day with the boys and NODS training for the Instagram.
Explains why it was Canadians who invented that Elcan thingy.
SKS/AK left completely stock is the correct choice in places that close to frozen hellscapes lol
Now that is a good TH-cam video. A well written script, a well spoken person speaking, and concise information delivered in a bite-sized chunk that passes on good stuff quickly and efficiently. There was even a bit of humor in it. Great job.
your point on "flip-to-center" getting in the way of NODs is super true. BUT...When nods come out of my pouch on my kit to go on my head, the quick release of the magnifier takes off the magnifier and goes in my nods pouch with the moon is out. So, good way to run a flip to center when the sun goes down and nods go on
Solid video. Spot on about actual real-world uses for a magnifier. People brag about shooting a bright white target the size of a truck door placed in front of a perfect green background that doesn't move and think they will be able to engage targets past 300.
And soooo many average civilians just have access to state-of-the-art ranges with moving targets at unknown distances. Amirite? Wtf lol.
@@Enjoyer.762if you have at least one friend you can each take turns setting up targets for each other
@@Enjoyer.762Doesn't nullify what tx611 said. He's right on.
@@SJ-km5ly And your reply doesn't nullify what I said. Most people can't even train at all because they only have access to a stationary Fudd range.
@@Enjoyer.762 so you really didnt say anything still lol
A few notes on Magnifiers.
- if you have a red dot on an AR/AK there is almost no excuse for not having a magnifier. A big part of “combat” is just sitting around “Pulling security” and “observing.” A magnifier allows you to do that better. You will go from “hey theres a dude out there” to “1 enemy pax wearing x carrying xx.” It helps with PID. I used to just run a dot and until i saw this real world. Now my personal or work guns all have some form of magnification.
-Zeroing, Hop is correct that magnifiers do not require a formal zero. However, zero you dot, center the dot in magnifier, and then I like to shoot a confirmation group with the magnifier.
-the quick detach is nice for when you need to look at something and dont want to point your gun at them.
If you dont have one. Seriously consider it. The G33 and micro 3x by vortex are nice
So does your work involve confiscating guns from civilians?
@@Enjoyer.762 no it does not.
I traded my Vortex 3x for the 6x after having used it to 300 yards because my optic was the PA Slx 1x Cyclops and while I could make the shots out of a 308 with no magnification up to about 200 yards I didn't feel like I got enough of a visual boost by using the 3x magnification. The 6x not only helped with that and helped me shoot clearer, farther, but it also made the distance markings on the sight itself a lot more usable.
A'rite you sold me ... sometime you don't have a spyglass, besides it can give away your position looking into the sun .....TT
I have Eotech G45 and the 5x doesnt bother me at all. I think the eyebox is ok for a magnifier. The eyebox on all magnifiers leaves something to be desired so between the 3's and 5's we are sort of splitting hairs. The 3'x may be better but by how much? Is it worth the extra magnification? Questions you have to answer for yourself.
I will say the Eotech 5's are much better than the Juliet 5's as far as eye box - clarity is night and day. Eotech 5's are also better than the Juliet 4's from my experience.
With that said I have looked behind a 6x and to me - just my opinion - the disparity in usability between the Vortex 6x and the Eotech 5x was vast. The 6 was hard to stay behind.
I like the extra magnification when needed and if you are trying to be more precise than hitting man size target the magnification really helps.
Agreed. I love my G45. I have never thought that it is difficult to use.
The G45 has better eye relief that the 33 actually.
It’s a pretty bad ass magnifier. I don’t own one but have shot all three eotech magnifiers. I stuck with the g33 as it’s enough for my MK18.
@@Heywoodthepeckerwood The G45 does have better eye relief but the eye box on the G33 is better, but by how much really in both instances? We are splitting hairs on both.
Both are really good - it comes down to which one you want, and how much magnification you think you need.
Same, love the G45
11:03 is where I benefited most from this video! THANK YOU FOR MIX MATCHING MAGNIFIERS TO (at the very least 1) DIFFERENT OPTIC!!
Really like the Juliet 4 magnifier personally. Works great on my setup for my intended use case, but I think it’s important that everyone carefully consider their intended use case and their own capabilities before deciding on an optics system as that lets you make the best decision for what you’ll need it for.
can the juliet 4 be removed from the mount and flipped around, so it will flip to the left instead of the right?
@@m4e1supremacy yes it can, i have one.
“use case”
Really??
Good grief.
The secret meta is that the holosun 403 with the acss has the same mount height as a t2 so when you mount it in a flip to center setup it actually all lines up instead of the red dot standing proud like the other t2 clones. The bdc also track 9mm really well from close to far with a 25yrd zero in my use
Which mounts do you speak of? Interested…
The RAIN. I never thought about the rain experience. I'm from Florida, and it thunderstorms every afternoon around 4. every. day. without question. thank you for that bit.
I have a 6x magnifier and completely agree with you. I just have it because it's fun to mess around with, not because it's practical. I just think they are neat
It would be cool if there was something like a 1.5-6x variable magnifier. Otherwise anything above 3x fixed is just too niche.
@@newerest1 sounds like an ELCAN
@@newerest1 theres 150 dollar monstrum lpvos in amazon that do that,lol.
Thanks for providing the anecdotal evidence to further support my seemingly fringe and uncharacteristic opinions on gear choices
A: for IG clout
That was four or five hype cycles ago! Now we're doing LED ACOGs with piggyback ACRO P2s. Try to keep up.
The thing is most of my shooting is up close and I don't want to deal with eyebox unless I really need it. So lvpo acogs, etc are no go
How hard is it to hit a 33% I
LPVOs aren't that bad up close, it's the same concept as shooting a dot. Turn on the illumination and it's a superior LED red dot. Don't even get me started on parallax it's identical.
Holosun 503g ACSS with Holosun 3X magnifier is still my go to. Probably can get them both for $450-$500.
I've found that, asthetics aside, precise vertical alignment between red dot and magnifier isn't necessary. Like more than a half inch off didn't change parallax or usability. And furthermore, magnifiers visually clean up red dots that look wonky due to my astigmatism. I set the diopter, put a strip of gaffer tape on it, and it's crisp dot reticles forever.
looking cool is most important
@@m4e1supremacyIf you're larping around in you basement in front of a mirror it is! LOL😅 And don't forget your bulletproof helmet and chest rig!
@@SJ-km5ly OP here has used his gear, knows its short comings and afaik, is proficient with his red dot/magnifier setup. therefore, he looks cool. using your gear and being proficient with it, means you'll look cool, and looking cool is most important.
9:41 I've found the Larue RISR to help in this greatly. Even without the magnifier a cheek riser is a significant aid in getting behind a tall dot quickly and consistently
I'm mildly far-sighted and never wear glasses. Dots always seem the tiniest bit fuzzy. Not enough to matter inside 200 yards. Past that, the clarity provided by a 3x is a noticeable upgrade. It's really just adding to your ability to PID targets and make slightly more precise hits. I disagree with Hop on 5x magnifiers with one caveat. I borrowed one from a friend, and it felt like cheating compared to the 3x. I did also grow up hunting with a variable power scope that was 4.5x at the bottom end, so I got pretty good at quickly finding targets with a narrower FOV. It's a trainable downside, but only a slight disadvantage. Honestly, it's a good trade-off if you're already good at making expedient hits to 150-200 without magnification.
Holosun HM3x 1/3 spacer height lines up fine with Sig micro red dots on Scalarworks 1/3 mount. Just a data point. (Btw Holosun is the OEM for Chinese Sig dots, so this is substantially compliant with the “don’t mix makers” axiom, for those who care.)
Also had no problem getting the HM3x w/ spacer to line up with a buddy’s lower 1/3 Eotech (EXPS3 I think). Just a few clicks up on the magnifier’s elevation turret and reticle was centered.
To add to your data point, my Holosun 3x works perfect with my Aimpoint T2, regarding the "dont mix makers" part. Both lower 1/3rd height
The big advantage is you can completely take off the magnifier and have an ultra light rifle, while not worried about losing zero etc. so those new microprisms are sexy but even though they come in with a piggyback red dot at lighter than a red dot magnifier combo, you can still make the red dot mag combo lighter by taking off the magnifier completely if not needed for the mission. Yes the prism does have better reticles and etched no battery etc.
Holy crap somebody used losing correctly, I keep seeing loosing exclusively.
Sooooo....I have a 3x mag behind a 1x prism. Works extremely well for me.....
I prefer the etched reticle and I love shooting at 1x for larger targets....
This is the best most informative video on red dot magnifier combos I’ve seen thank you very much Hop! 👏
One interesting thing about the G45 magnifier + Exps models is that you can set it up for absolute cowitness height but it still works with the 1/3 cowitness eotech because of the large window size. Makes the magnifier more flush with the exps and it doesn't catch on stuff as easily.
Chinweld gvng
I do the same with my Juliet 4 at absolute and romeo4h at 1/3. Magnifiers don't need to be perfectly lined up.
@@jesserobinson838 All of them have a removable spacer and 2 lengths of screws so any of them can be absolute height or 1/3.
@@jesserobinson838 expensive and heavy option is a Wilcox .410 set screw riser. That should get you ball park 1.93
G33 vs G45, what's your take?
Thanks!😊😊👍🏼👍🏼
Hop vid on the pooper = great monday
I am from the old Marine Corps guard, pre-ACOG, got out in 2004. One of my MOSs was PMI (Primary Marksmanship Instructor). Marines, other than Recon, Force Recon, MARSOC, Scout/Snipers, throughout our history ONLY ever used iron sights. Our KD course went from 200 to 500 yards. Generally Marines are very good riflemen, at least the old Marine guard was with just iron sights. I am not saying there is a right or wrong optics set-up. I am only highlighting that I think too many people skip leg day when it comes to shooting with iron sights or a red dot at distances we Marines, other military branches, and private citizens used to regularly shoot at. LPVO have become a crutch IMO, not saying don't use them, I am saying don't disadvantage yourselves by ONLY running the envogue LPVO set-ups only. Train with all of the optical options you have on your rifles. Ask yourselves this, If you have back-up iron sights do you train regularly with them as much you many of yo shoot with LPVOs?? And yes, Hop is absolutely right about also training beyond KD. 👍
SemperFi - Got out in 1992!! I'm deadly out to 500M with iron sites, and struggle very much with scopes. The corps taught us too well. My platforms rely heavily on irons. 4 years, 4 expert badges exceeding 235 pts!
As a Marine that was in mid 2007 and started with irons then got an ACOG later I have some opinions on this. Yes, you can train with irons and unmagnified optics, but you can't PID a target or observe it without magnification. You also can't easily verify a hit at 500 yards without magnification.
@@Pantone268Plus you speak no lies. I agree.
Agreed.
The circle on a circle-dot can be used as a rangefinder - but it's really only effective to about 400yd. Maybe more if you have the additional drop dots - maybe.
That's the whole reason they make them 68 moa.
Yeah so you can rangefind a guy out to 200 yards
Another solid vid Hop. Thanks. I'm a huge 36y zero fan.
I started off with the Primary Arms 3x magnifier and the Holosun 503g (chevron plus three dots) thinking I'd upgrade later, but I never needed to. Strelok says that will get me to 525yd with my 14.5" in 55gr and a 50yd zero. The magnifier is good for better seeing the dots, plus all the other stuff Hop said.
I noticed the S&W M&P 15-22 in the video, and my wife has that with the same optics combo (3x and 503g). That might be the best use of the setup, to get a .22 out to 175yd on the reticle.
so much truth in this video, from realistic target visibility to aiming and light stuff getting in the way of NODS, to crap getting wet, dirty dusty and losing vision. all stuff only embraced in the field.
Good explanation, magnifier doesn't allow you to shoot farther, it allows you to see what you are shooting better. I disagree with FTC though because I gave up on passive night vision aiming, I prefer to just use my laser as needed and since I'm mainly focused on CQB it works. Any long shots at night and I'm using my thermal scope.
I have a Eotech Xps2-2 on a unity riser and thinking G43 or G45 with unity FTC. Thoughts? It will be on my Tavor X95
Silly move.
You make great videos and this is in the top 3.
The rational behinfd the magnifier is spot on and is an excellent source of info.
Great intel. What I would really like to know is when is it best to go with a LPVO vs a Red Dot & Magnifier vs a MPVO with a red dot.
I’ve been wicked happy with the Juliet 5 especially for the money. Love the fact that you brought up the distance from magnifier to optic not mattering.
I don't have any issues with my G33 with the Unity FTC mount when it is stowed away in the center and I want to passively aim with my NODs and same with my ACOG TA-110 with a piggybacked ACRO P2. Maybe it has to do with your stock placement on your AR, I have mine fully extended out on a standard buffer tube.
Out of the videos that Hop has made, this is definitely one of them.
feel like we need a follow up to this about why some red dots work and don't work with magnifiers. I know you have touched on this with emitter location in some of your videos.
Side note from personal experience, I do recommend the -2 reticle _if you're already decided on an EOTech_ . EOTech themselves say the -4 is pretty much _only_ for use under magnification as without it the dots all just blur together. the -2 should be used under magnification but can be used without it.
From what I’ve read, it alsodepends on your eyes. Some folks have the dots kind of blurring together issue with only two dots in the -2 as well, apparently. That said, i will probably get one soon and sell it if i don’t like it. I would like to have the extra reference point to work with at longer ranges! (Both with and without a magnifier)
Biggest reason I got the -4 was cuz I saved money 🗿
I hoping primary arms or Holosun makes a micro 4x with some ranging or wind and mover holds built in
@10:34 This is why I prefer the Wilcox magnifier mount. Allows you to quick detach the magnifier when not needed e.g., when running NV, and it's generally low profile and doesn't get in the way of your FOV.
The argument for a lower power magnifier makes a lot of sense but in my case, I paired a G45.STS with an EXPS3-4 and have been really happy with it especially for pushing maximum range.
After shooting this combo for a while now, it feels very natural and now when I pick up a 3X magnifier with an EXPS3, it feels really weird to me. Still usable, but weird.
Like most things, I think it has a lot to do with what you get accustomed to.
One more thing, a 5X magnifier comes in a little handier when you detach it and use it as a monocular.
Hey, @Hoplopfheil! Good topic! Also, two good points you covered that have plagued me: co-witnessing both red dots and magnifiers and matching manufactures of both red dots and magnifiers. Covering those two issues helped me.
@Hop you should check out the Trijicon 3x magnifier. Can buy it separately from the MRO and is the best magnifier IMO.
Heard good things about that trijicon but I can't help but think it looks and feels like the Vortex 3x
This entire video just makes me happy i went with a canted setup. 5x prism with a canted red dot does so much for most people
I always wondered how useful these 5x & 6x magnifiers are, nice of Hop to confirm my suspicions so I don't have to try it with my own money.
I have the g45 5x magnifier and really like it. I'm usually never shooting with my magnifier standing up, only resting on something. So I found 5x much more useful than a 3x which 3x doesn't seem like a massive gain imo to be worth it. Yeah the eyebox and eye relief aren't as good as an LPVO or scope, but it's not that bad
I like the G45 as well, I only use it when I am having trouble seeing the target clearly against the background or just far away. It also fixes my astigmatism for precise shots / zeroing. Also because of the easy removal, 5x is enough magnification to be useful spotting game animals without pointing a gun at everything.
Don't waste your money! I went right back to 3x
The g45 is a great magnifier with better relief than the Eotech 3x or the Juliet 4x.
Not sure he confirmed some suspicions or made some feel relieved that their 3x was as good as it got.
I love your explanation of magnifiers. I tried looking everywhere else we’re good information but you’re all facts
Speaking clear and concise no bullshit
If I see the phrase “use case” in the comments section one more time, I’m gonna tell all your moms that you’re up past your bedtime.
EXPS3 With Micro Triplier is my favorite setup for 300Y and in .
I run 2 Rigs . One listed above and the other is TA31CH-G ACOG with offset MRDS.
I use my EXPS3 with Micro 3x all the time in 2Gun matches . I have 0 issues hitting reduced C zone target at 300Y . It will take 2 or 3 rounds to hit 8" plate at 300Y . Sometimes I can get it on first shot .
I'm using YHM 1/2" Full Flat Top Riser . I'm also using IRREGULARS FEER BCM SOPMOD 0.5 Cheek Riser . I do not have issues picking up the 3x . I do not run NV . I just have long neck lol..
Hop and Mountains Mullets Merica have the most useful info presented in the most digestible way and it aint even close
Man I love that guy
Bro! Lots of useful info in such a short bideo
Man it's hard to find people that actually know what they're talking about and make good points. Subscribed.
I admit I like my LVPO for various situations but I can't help but love my EoTech and 3X. For SHTF, in my area I don't need a 1-6X but it sure is nicer on the range!
I have a Eotech Xps2-2 on a unity riser and thinking G43 or G45 with unity FTC. Thoughts?
@@SyrupCanuck I don't have experience with those mounts so i couldn't say. The EoTech magnifiers seem fine and clear but for the money, I'm happy to go with a cheaper magnifier. I risked it on Vortex and I'm happy. I haven't beat it up though, it's had a gentle life so far. I have the 2 dot EoTech too, my favorite. Good luck!
@@tire26 wonder how that trijicon one is its only 3x tho
The pretty cool part about flip to center magnifier mounts, is the QR lever.
_stow it at sunset_
Something you didn't mention (and this is a VERY small detail, I know) was that putting a magnifier behind an Eotech isn't quite the same as putting one behind a red dot. With a red dot, the dot is also magnified. With an Eotech, the dot stays the same size - which means it practically goes from a 1 MOA dot to a 1/3 MOA dot that allows for more precise aiming (if using a 3x magnifier).
True, that's one thing reflex sight cannot offers
This is wrong. 1 moa stays 1 moa, 2 moa stays 2 moa. The entire image in front of the magnifier is magnified. EoTech reticle doesn’t magically shrink to 1/3 moa. It’s physics.
@ericstrauss9435 Eotech dots are actually infinitesimally small. The human eye resolves the dot at about 1 moa if you have good vision. This means that you can never magnify the dot, it will always stay the same size no matter how much magnification you put it through.
Practically, this means that the dot "effecively" becomes 1/3 MOA when you put it through a 3x maginifer. The rest of the image is magnified, but the dot stays the same. In other words, the dot shrinks relative to the target.
Yes, it is physics. Holograms are really complicated.
6:02 I respectfully beg to differ - at night, remove the magnifier entirely. You won't need it - it's too dark to see with magnifiers anyway due to exit pupils being smaller than your eyes and shit.
Flip to center clunks your nods, completely true. But you'll never use magnifiers at night especially if you run nods. Unless you are willing to do some weird diopter adjustment witchcraft and shoot long-stocked floating your gun ahead of your tubes, aiming down magnifier with I2 is just not happening.
Holy shit a HopLop video where I completely agree?
I think I must be having a stroke
I am the baseline for opinions. If you find yourself in disagreement, call a doctor.
@@Hoplopfheil I disagree 🤔
@@Tarburz Quick! Call an ambulance!
@@That_Guy5575
"but not for me"
🔫😎
Exactly. Are we sure this is really Hop?
Thanks!
Can I get your take on the g45? Is it really that much harder to get behind than the g33? Was planning to pick one up for my 14.5 build but I've only used g33 in the past, so I'm wondering if I should just stick with that
i tried it out in a store once, didn't care for it and went with a pst gen 2 1-6. I've only used the Holosun HM3X on a buddy's rifle and I really enjoyed it (used it with a Sig Romeo 5, Eotech EXPS2-0, and Vortex UH1 Gen 2). To my eye the best magnified image was the Vortex, despite its slightly blue tint compared to the Eotech.
It is actually not harder at all. In fact the listed eye relief on the G33 is 2.2 inches and the G45 is 2.6 inches. The Juliet 4x is 2.55.
Every user will struggle somewhat with eye relief with a magnifier. Its an inherent downside. When it is said that the "Sweetspot" is 3 or 4x that is for them and their purpose. Hitting a man size target at 300 yards you dont need more than that. The Juliet 4 eye relief is 2.55 again smaller than the Eotech 5x. The Vortex 3x is 2.64. Vortex 6x is 2.5
I run an Eotech g45 on two builds. It is crystal clear with, as we saw above better eye relief than the 2 3x's I listed....including Eotech.
Personally I rather have the clearer more magnification.
Another thing you will see is they "eye box" argument. Again all magnifiers struggle with eye box as well - up-down-left-right. I dont have the numbers but from my experience it is splitting hairs again. I never had a magnifier and said "oh this eye box is fantastic" - 3x or 5x....they all struggle.
I have one. It's basically exactly the same. The g45 actually has a little more eye relief compared to the g33 even
Thanks for all the feedback guys! I think I'll go ahead and pull the trigger on a g45
@@paulyp9853well said so I have a X95 5.56 and an Eotech Xps2-2 on a unity riser. I'd like a unity FTC. So should I get the G45 then? This will be my 300m and in rifle
Ive been rocking an exps3-2 with the primary arms ranging magnifier on my 300blk in the 2.26 config and honestly its been doing really well. Im probably going to get the 4xt for my 11.5 whenever they become available again, and mount that in the 2.26 height as well. Then Ill just swap the magnifier between the two.
Why to see the back of your D2 better of course.
5:45 on one of my builds i actually sneak my rear sight between the red dot and magnifier. Works great
Magnifier stonks 📈
Awesome. This is how you make a video like this. knowledgable, efficient, perfect. thank you.
I can't wait for variable magnifiers to be a thing.
Surprised this isn't a thing
What would be the trade off vs an lpvo?
@@hailtothe_rooster1572Probably more weight. But the advantage would be that you'd have less head fuckery for night vision
inb4 variable zoom BDC equipped qd magnifiers
I believe it's because of size. Chop a lpvo in half and throw it behind your dot. "usually" from the scope caps to the rear lens is used to adjust magnification inside a scope which nearly takes up the whole top rail on MOST lpvos but I'm sure some big mfg is working on one or have tried it and not released it since the tech to make it small wasn't there yet? There's drawbacks to everything in each optic choice as hop opened with, I'm guessing a variable magnifier loses some benefits of a fixed mag.
I never really invested in the magnifier/RDS stack, however, I had one dropped into my lap this week. After I get back from Tactical Games, I might start dropping some reviews.
The bit about the rain on 5 lenses... that's hard won knowledge right there. I feel like someone mentioned, or brought that up at some point in regards to pistol RDS' specifically the enclosed emitter ones.
I mean if you're going to be engaging long distances anyways why not go 308 with LPVO. Surely that'd be better?
Why not a 50?
I'd bring a mortar team and a drone, YOLO
A QD magnifier (not a shitty push button mount like the new Juliets) is a must. No need to zero so it's very easy to take it on and off. Realistically I am not shooting past 400 so it's perfect for me.
Rds magnifier combo stays winning
He'll yeha borther
I won a very budget monstrum dot and magnifier combo. My first set up as such. Been training with it and definitely see the advantage and uses.
So, is there a reason to use a magnifier if you don't have NV?
Sure
Having a small waterproof veil is an absolute must for shooting in rain with any optics setup but definitely with this one.
4:12 - TOO LATE. Complaints inbound before watching the rest.
what is up with these dates of comments? 2 weeks ago wtf?
@@mgpBLARGBro preordered this comment😭
I don't have nods (no money), but for those who do, how do you feel about a cheek riser for the stock? That seems like it would give you a heads up position while maintaining a cheek weld.
EDIT: Right. The Magpul ones interfere with the charging handle. But I think others like the Ape Defense or SC Irregulars (or a gimmicky-looking Larue sliding thingy) might clear it
Totally agree - getting hits with a red dot is pretty easy out to about 200. The 3x really helps with precision from 200-300.
Depending on why you carry a rifle, it’s probably not often you are going to have a target present well enough past 400 that holdover red dots and a 6x are going to work very well… Use an lpvo if you are really going to be shooting past 300.
How many different configured upper receiver groups will you be carrying in your backpack during this larp?
@@Enjoyer.762Only one setup per "mission".
Cheapest and easiest way to join the giraffe gang with red-dot magnifier combo is to use the Unity Fast riser (the elevated pic section ones) and put both your RD and mag on it (using the mounts they already came with). Probably doesn’t fit many combos, but I know it works well with Holosun AEMS+Vortex micro 3x
The red dot is cool, I just don’t see a need for the front end luggage, I don’t have NODS, I don’t need a laser pointer, a light is fine but adding additional items on civilian arms, there’s just no point, im not raiding anything.
If you pair it with a tarac alpha it makes a red dot pretty nice for longer ranges
At my first two gun match I had a red dot only and had a 400 yard shot. My thoughts process was "just aim a little high". Guess what? It worked, first round hit. That being said I appreciate this video as I was just looking into a magnifier. I got the Romeo4 Pro at your recommendation for my night gun and a magnifier sounded like a good idea, given the low cost. The target id and low % shots make a lot of sense and that's why I got the Razor 1-6 HD that weighs as much as a boat anchor. rd/magnifier is a little lighter, but I can just take the magnifier off too making it a lot lighter... great for a nv gun that's already gonna be heavy.
Great information. Answered my question on purchasing a Magnifier.
Holosun hs507r and holosun hm3x is still my favourite budget combo for my rifle. You can find it for 400$ on palmetto state armory. If you do not care about circle dot then use the hs407r and save 20$. I can find the hm3x at 200$ EVERYWHERE. That combo paired with a set of MBUS, a streamlight protac hl-x and a magpul MS1 is still my favourite budget set-up for an ar 15. I usually ad a BCM PNT trigger to the mix and a breek arms ambi charging handle. The total is around $700-800. I like my IWI zion 15 for 830$ so in total i can have a colplete rifle for around $1600, the price of a high end rifle with NOTHING.
Thorough, good quality and helpful. Thank you
Our Lord and Savior Nutnfancy never signed off on them over the years.
That's because he has enough extra Nikon scopes in the safe to last until judgement day.
Who?
I prefer an LPVO. More useful reticle, weight isn’t that much different (depending on selection obviously), still got a useable reticle if the battery dies, and the unbalanced feel of a magnifier off to the side is something I just couldn’t get used to or cared for. Just my $0.02
I cud have commented 2 weeks ago but didn't
I admire your patience
It extends the person's vision for ease of fire.
The bullet range is the same range as always. But the limiter is the shooter's vision