Reliable optic for an AR-15?

[KentuckyBryan]

OK, I have an AR that I bought used. It came with a Red Dot Optic that works ok, except for th fact that when I shoot it works itself loose and therefore does not hold it's zero. I would like to find a red dot optic that will hold a zero when being used. Better yet I would like to have one that I could detach and attach and would still hold it's zero.

To summarize, looking for a sight that:

1. Will hold a zero when being fired
2. Can Detached and attached quickly
3. Will hold zero when being removed and put back on.
4. Can be mounted on my flattop WITH my flip up rear sight.

Any suggestions for this? Would really like to stay under $200 if possible.

[Johnnyvegas]

Originally posted by KentuckyBryan
OK, I have an AR that I bought used. It came with a Red Dot Optic that works ok, except for th fact that when I shoot it works itself loose and therefore does not hold it's zero. I would like to find a red dot optic that will hold a zero when being used. Better yet I would like to have one that I could detach and attach and would still hold it's zero.

To summarize, looking for a sight that:

1. Will hold a zero when being fired
2. Can Detached and attached quickly
3. Will hold zero when being removed and put back on.
4. Can be mounted on my flattop WITH my flip up rear sight.

Any suggestions for this? Would really like to stay under $200 if possible.

I know what you need, but it isn't gonna keep within your price range, optics are an area that you get what you pay for.
I have an Aimpoint Comp ML3 on an ARMS 22M68 mount, and full spacer. Aimpoints have awesome battery life, and are about as buletproof as you can get, EoTechs work well according to others, but not so good with my eyes, and both will blow your price point by a few hundred dollars at least. They both work well, and will do everything you ask, hope you find a better deal on something you will be happy with, good luck in your search!

John

[PP914]

Personally, there aren't any red dot optics that I would recommend for under $200. If your sight is of decent quality, then spend your money on a quality quick-detach mount. These can be had for less than $100 if you shop. Reputable brands include A.R.M.S., GG&G, LaRue, etc. (There are many many decent mounts out there). I recommend that you try www.AR15.com.

[jadams951]

You're not going to find what you are looking for at that price. I would recommend an aimpoint and put it in a larue mount. It will hold the zero if set in the larue mount correctly, be able to be used with your BUIS, and the ability for quick detachment.

Aimpoint comp ML3 is newer than the comp M2 or ML2 and you can find the M2 or ML2 for a tad cheaper than the ML3. The Larue mount will be above $100 itself but it's damn well worth it.

[LA_357SIG]

I'm trying out a trijicon reflex II on my A3. I zeroed it first, then took it off and zeroed the carrying handle next, and then used the optic again. It held at 50 yards but I only put 100 rounds through it. It's not so small where the front sight is intrusive that unless the lens cracks I wouldnt need to quickly detatch it, and it doesn't use batteries so that's a plus. I am going to check it again soon, hopefully it'll still be good. :thumbsup:

and it's not exactly in the $200 range either

[dport]

The only mount I know of that will reliably go back to zero is LaRue. That will set you back between 115 to 140 bucks.

As for a fairly decent quality optic at a fairly affordable price, I think the only one that fits that bill is the SPOT. That will run you ~150 bucks.

So you're looking at ~270 to 300 dollars for what you outlined.