Finding the right place to mount a weapon light on a carbine rifle can always be a challenge. Different shooting techniques, shooting positions, gas systems, rail platforms and accessories all have an effect on where a weapon light is mounted. In the latter part of 2011 Haley Strategic teamed up with Impact Weapons Components to create a series of light mounts. The mounts were designed to complement modern weapon manipulation, accessories such as lasers and IR illumination and leave room for proper hand placement. From their very successful genesis to the present, the mounts have continued to evolve. The Thorntail and the Dropwing were the first mounts available. The Dropwing was designed to attach to a rail via the rail slots and has various ring sizes to attach to “tubular” flashlights. The Thorntail was designed to attach to MIL-STD-1913 rails and is tailored for short barreled rifles. The Thorntail mount also utilizes a ring attachment method and was designed to push the weapon light forward to leave space for proper hand placement. The next mount that Haley Strategic launched was the Mil 620 Light. The light mount was designed for the Surefire Millennium and 620 series of lights.

Haley Strategic Thorntail Offset Light Mount

The Thorntail Offset mount was launched by Haley Strategic in October of 2012. The Thorntail Offset mount is a canted section of picatinny rail that attaches to a MIL-STD-1913 rail. Though the mount was designed to be a platform for weapons lights I found that it could also be used for back up iron sights as well as red dot sights. Like all the other Adaptive Light Mounts, the Thorntail Offset was designed to be extremely low profile.

The Thorntail Offset mount is marketed as one of the lowest profile and compact light mounts on the market. Here it is compared to a similar mounting solution.

The Thorntail Offset mount is machined out of 6061 – T6 aluminum (Ultimate Tensile Strength 45,000 PSI)…which is a very strong grade of aircraft aluminum. The Thorntail Offset mount weighs 1.06 ounces. Haley Strategic includes a 9/64 Allen wrench to assist in mounting. I torqued the test sample to my Troy rail at 10 in/lbs and had no movement during testing. Haley Strategic recommends using Loctite to keep the screws from coming lose. Be aware that if you are running a piston gas system make sure the heat isn’t venting directly on the mount/light.

After testing the Thorntail I found that I was most efficient and comfortable with the light mounted in the 11 o’clock position.

I traditionally like to run a light at the 12 o’clock position. By shifting to the 11 o’clock I found that I had a better field of view through my red dot sight.

Smith and Wesson M&P 15…rebuilt with Colt internal parts. Lucid M7 Micro Dot. Streamlight TLR1S mounted on a Haley Strategic Thorntail Offset light mount. Can’t wait to shoot that rifle again. In the words of Pat McNamara…”Lets gas it up and burn it down…“

After watching the Haley Strategic promotional video, Travis made a point to demonstrate the Thorntail Offset mount as a possible platform in which a shooter can mount back up iron sights. I was anxious to try this out. The first thing I noticed is that the sight does not sit directly over the bore. For close up shots I didn’t find this to be a problem. From the prone position at 100 yards I found that if I held an inch to the right I was able to accurately hit what I was aiming at.

The Thorntail Offset mount proved to be an awesome platform for Lucid’s new red dot. I am currently reviewing the Lucid M7. So far the sight is bomb proof.

Due to the size of the scope mount the only place to attach back up sights was on the right side of the rail/handguard. The gun needs to be canted a lot more but if you are lacking a quick detach scope mount and you still want to use your iron sights…this is a solution.

Streamlight TLR1S mounted on my Remington 700 SPS tactical. If you live in a jurisdiction that allows you to hunt predators or feral hogs at night, the Thorntail Offset would allow you to utilize your existing light…granted you had a place to mount it. A red lens paired with the Streamlight TLR1S will be an awesome combination for calling in coyotes at night.

Final Thoughts.

There is no question about it, Travis Haley did a wonderful job designing the Thorntail Offset mount. Impact Weapons Components sourced excellent material in manufacturing the Thorntail and the machining is second to none. The Thorntail Offset is an excellent mount that gives a shooter a lot of options in regards to configuration and I look forward to utilizing the mount on other weapons platforms. Without a doubt Haley Strategic is building an awesome portfolio of products. Navigate on over to the Haley Strategic website to check it out. On my way to the Haley Strategic website I stopped by the MARSOC Foundation website and made a donation.

Do you have any experience with the Adaptive Light mounts from Haley Strategic? Tips, questions, sarcasm, gripes and jokes are welcome in the comments below!

Load that bipod…stay safe!

Recently hiked up Wheeler Peak. Highest point in New Mexico. Had a shot of whiskey for John Noveske. Vibrams rocked going up…not a lot of fun hiking down!

New Mexico at 13,167 feet.

Bushnell introduced a new spotting scope in the company’s tactical line up.  The new LMSS (lightweight, modular spotting scope) is an 8-40x 60 that is less than 13″ long and weights 37 ounces.

The aluminum body is rubber coated to help protect it in the field.  The scope is waterproof to IPX7 standards.

The scope comes with a detachable Picatinny rail and a choice of a standard reticle or the Horus Vision H32 reticle.  MSRP is $1699.99 or $2199.99 for the Horus Vision reticle version.

[ This review was written by Dr. Jim and Mary Clary ]

For years we pretty much mounted our scopes the old fashioned way, setting our rifle between two sandbags to level it out, placing the scope in the rings and using our eye to “level” the horizontal bar of the reticle and then adjusting the vertical component until it was perpendicular to the axis of the rifle.  While it worked, it was time consuming and not always perfect.  Since that time, several inexpensive reticle leveling systems have come on the market that work well for the average shooter who mounts only one or two scopes a year.

However, for professionals who set up scopes for paying customers, a faster and more accurate system is required. Wheeler Engineering designed their Professional Reticle Leveling System with dealers and gunsmiths in mind (and folks like us who like neat time-saving tools).   What is very nice about this system is that it can be used on any type of firearm:  bolt action, falling block, pump action or semi-automatics, including AR platforms.

We set a new test rifle (CVA Optima V2) into our Tipton Gun Vise.  The Tipton vise is one of the handiest tools you can have on your reloading bench.    It will securely handle any rifle or shotgun made.  OK, you might have trouble with a Barrett M82A1 50 BMG, but for conventional sporting firearms, the Tipton Vise works perfectly.  Mounting a scope, making repairs or cleaning your gun is easy if you have this device.  It is well worth the MSRP of $129.99 USD.  But, we digress, this article is about the Wheeler Engineering Professional Reticle Leveling System.

The instructions for the Professional Reticle Leveling System (PRLS) are so simple that rather than paraphrase them, we decided to simply quote them as follows:  “The system is comprised of two machined aluminum level housings calibrated to their integrated levels. The Barrel Clamp Level is attached to the gun’s barrel while the smaller Reference Level is placed on scope base, bottom half of a ring or other flat surface perpendicular to the vertical axis of the gun. The gun is then rotated until the Reference Level is aligned. The tuning adjustment knob on the Barrel Clamp Level is then turned until its level is centered to match the Reference Level. At this point the Barrel Clamp Level is calibrated to the guns axis. The Scope can be installed loosely and the Reference Level placed on top of the scopes turret cap. The scope is rotated until the Reference Level is aligned with the Barrel Clamp Level and then simply secured in place.”

It took more time to torque the rings down with my F.A.T. wrench than it did to level out the reticle on the new scope.  Given the fact that we change our scopes around a lot during the course of a year, I believe that we will keep the PRLS.  With an MSRP of $64.99, it is not cheap.  However, given its precision, quality and the ease of operation, it is a fair price for the guaranteed accuracy of the results.  After all, what good is a three or four hundred dollar scope if it is not properly mounted?

Arsenal is selling a new lightweight side scope rail for AK rifles. The mount has a picatinny rail for mounting optics. It is CNC machined from aluminum and weighs 5.76 oz.

From the press release ….

LAS VEGAS, NV – After the successful fulfillment of a military requirement, Arsenal, Inc. is excited to announce the release of the SM-13 to the commercial market. This one-piece side-attaching scope mount for the AK variant rifles was born to meet and exceed the toughest objectives put in front of Arsenal, Inc. The SM-13 was designed and manufactured specifically to surpass the following requirements:

• To come up with a light-weight, precision, and highly rigid scope mount platform for military application:
  The one-piece CNC precision machined SM-13 is manufactured from aircraft grade aluminum alloy for the minimum weight (only 5.76 ounces) and maximum strength.
• To have the maximum-length Picatinny railing system for attaching top mounted devices, such as scopes, red dot systems, night visions, and magnifiers:
  The over-7.5-inches-long Picatinny rail that runs along the rifle, from the end of the top cover to the rear sight leaf, allows for attaching multiple devices at the same time or one device for the maximum eye relief.
• To have the lowest profile that adds the minimum to the bulk of the rifle and allows the use of iron sights while the mount is installed:
  The SM-13 follows the contour of the rifle closely. The absolute low profile and the relief cut along the rail allow the use of the iron sights even when the scope mount is attached to the rifle.
• To have a quick-release attaching mechanism that provides the maximum stability and consistency:
  The SM-13 utilizes the time-proven steel adjustable locking mechanism that allows instantaneous attachment and release of the scope mount without any compromise to the accuracy and loss of zero. Unlike some other mounts that attach to unstable top covers or gas tubes, the SM-13 attaches to the side scope rail of an AK variant rifle, which provides the most stable attaching platform on the rifle.

asd

Sightmark is making what they call a hybrid night vision riflescope.  The Photon-S is a daylight capable 3.5x 42mm scope with night vision capabilities.  The unit uses a 150mW LED IR illuminator combined with a 1/3″ CMOS CCD to provide low-light/night time vision capability.

The display resolution is 300×225 and the sensor resolution is 768×576.  Video out via RCA connectors is possible.

The night vision component is powered by a pair of AA batteries.  The Dot-Duplex reticle is powered by a single CR2032.  According to Sightmark specifications, the scope uses standard Weaver mounts, has a 30mm tube diameter and is not nitrogen filled.

MSRP is $599.97.

The new Firefly sights from WrenTech Industries are now shipping.  The Firefly sights are a glow-in-the-dark upgrade for the company’s existing Advantage Tactical Sight (ATS) line of handgun sights.

The Firefly is “charged” from an exposure to a bright light source.  According to WrenTech, a charged Firefly sight will glow “for many hours.”  MSRP is $36 and includes both green and yellow Firefly sights.

Hi-Viz Shooting Systems announced a new line of camo patterned shotgun sights will be sold in 2014.  The camo sights will use fiber optic rods like the standard sights the company sells.

Three models will initially be available:  TriViz, BirdBuster and Remington ETA.  The TriViz uses a front and rear sight assembly and is windage adjustable.  The BirdBuster is a front sight with a magnetic base to allow for the quick installation on a venter rib, and even movement of the sight from one gun to another.  The Remington ETA is similar to the BirdBuster, but build specifically for the Remington ribs.

Ruger is now offering the LCP and LC9 handguns with Viridian green lasers and tactical lights from the factory.  The pistols, offered exclusively through TALO Distributors, will ship with a specially designed pocket holster that works with the Viridian Instant-On activation system.

Viridian announced the Reactor 5 green laser for the LCP and LC9 several months ago.  Ruger offers Crimson Trace and LaserMax lasers as factory options, but the Viridian is the only green laser offered for the guns from Ruger.

The EyePal is a new product that claims to bring the rear sight, front sight and target all into focus at the same time.  The EyePal is a small disk that attaches to the front of your shooting glasses.  The disk has a tiny hole, or aperture, in it that allows the eye to focus on more than it could otherwise.

As I understand it, this is the same effect that a photographer uses to adjust depth of field through aperture size adjustment.  A photographer can capture a very shallow depth of field (sharp subject, blurred background) with a large aperture such as f2.8.  With a smaller aperture, such as f11, a lot more of the scene is in focus.

It appears that by forcing the eye to look through a tiny hole, it allows the shooter to perceive more of the target and sights in focus.  I would presume that you would need good lighting to effectively use this device.  MSRP is $29.95.

Leupold announced a new reticle that is designed to help shooters make precise shots using holdover rather than dial adjustments.  The new reticle is called the TS-32X1.

According to Leupold, it works in this way:

A heavy post and thin stadia crosshair features 1-MOA hashmarks on both the horizontal and vertical lines. Every other hash mark on the horizontal stadia is slightly longer, providing quick and easy 2-MOA measurements. Every four MOA is indicated by a number.

The vertical stadia is also set up with 1-MOA tics and longer 2-MOA marks. In addition, every fourth mark is numbered, all the way to the complete 32-MOA elevation range. Wind dots in the lower half of the reticle are spaced in 2 MOA increments, both vertically and horizontally.

The TS-32X1 reticle is available as an upgrade to new scopes ordered through the company’s custom shop.  The upgrade will cost $129.99.  Older scopes can be retrofitted for $159.99.  The reticle is currently available for the VX-3, VX-III, Vari-X and Mark 4 4.5-14 LR/T scopes.

Most reflex sights only offer one type of reticle, and the user is locked into it. However, the most unique thing about MSE’s AQC-1C model is that it offers three reticles which the user can change at the push of a button.

Left button: Brightness control. Center button: On/off. Right button: Reticle selection.

Red dot reticle

“Accurate Shooting” reticle

“Quick shooting” reticle

The AQC-1C comes with a PTT (Push to Talk) style cable that can activate the sight, cycle through the reticle options, and also control the brightness level.

The PTT button inside of a provided nylon cover, secured by velcro on the forearm.

View of the support hand with the thumb on the PTT button.

One thing I noticed while testing this feature is that it could overwhelm/confuse the user. If the button is pushed quickly and you miss your option, then you have to press the PTT button multiple times to cycle back. If you’re at the range just having a casual shooting session then this isn’t a big deal, but in higher stress situations I could see this being a potential problem.

One small critique is that I think the PTT cable could be longer. For users who like having their support hand further toward the muzzle, there doesn’t appear to be a longer cable available.

The reflex sight has a large window, coming in at 1″ x 1 1/3″, which greatly aids the shooter in target acquisition. It comes encased in a “composite reinforced polymer body” that looks like it can withstand the typical bumps and drops when mounted on an AR-15, or other rifle. For those of you familiar with the EOTech design, the AQC-1C is very similar in shape.

Profile view of the AQC-1C on an AR-15.

The scope was developed by LTC (Ret) Mikey Hartman, a 20 year commander of the Israeli Defense Force (IDF) marksmanship and sharpshooting school. Researching prices online for the MSE AQC-1C reflex sight, looks like you can find it for $600-700. Command Arms (CAA) is the exclusive importer and distributor of MSE sights.

www.CommandArms.com.

New from US Optics …

The SR-4C features a true 1X power, low setting and a daylight visible red or green dot sight packaged in a lightweight aircraft aluminum housing and is MIL-A-8625 Type III hard anodized 30mm body.  The red dot can be set at any of 12 pre-programmed intensity settings.  The lower four settings are night vision compatible.

The SR-4C by U.S. Optics features the best of a holographic sight and a 1×4 variable magnified optic into a compact, rugged package that is 9.25” in length and weighs just under 20 ounces.  Low-profile windage and elevation knobs minimize the profile of the SR-4C.  2/10 MIL knob adjustments make zeroing the Mil Scale reticle quick and effortless. With a true 1X power setting, the 4-MOA red dot sight is perfect for quick and decisive target acquisition in CQB situations.  Dial the power ring to 4X to confidently engage targets at short ranges up to 500 yards.   Over 8,000 hours of runtime is squeezed out of a 3 Volt CR2032 lithium coin battery.

No word on pricing (but I know it won’t be cheap).

If you live in a jurisdiction that allows the use of a night vision device for hunting or predator control, the Pulsar Sentinel GS 2X50 Night Vision Riflescope would be an excellent choice.  Since I am constantly trying to get ahead of the coyote problem on our ranch I was excited to test a night vision rifle scope to see if it would be a good tool for managing coyotes…especially since we are several weeks away from calving.

S&W M&P 15 with Pulsar Sentinel GS 2×50 Night Vision Rifle Scope. *Click on picture for high resolution photo.

Pulsar has a very broad product line that includes Generation 1, 2, and 3 night vision monoculars, binoculars, range finders, and  rifle scopes. Pulsar also has several outstanding digital night vision products. The model that I tested featured Pulsar’s Proprietary CF- Super image tube. The CF-Super image tube consists of a sphere-shaped photocathode that provides a very clear, non-distorted image that comes close to that of a Generation 2 image.  Key features found on the Pulsar Sentinel GS 2×50 Night Vision Riflescope include:

• Generation 1+ Proprietary CF- Super Image Tube
• 2 x magnification
• Weight of 35.2 ounces (2.20 pounds)
• 50mm Objective Lens
• A focus range of 5 meters to infinity
• 13 degree field of view at 50 meters
• Diopter Adjustment of +/- 2.5
• Runs on two AA batteries. Average battery life is 70 hours without IR
• Red and Green reticles
• Titanium body
• Built in adjustable  IR illumination
• MIL – STD – 1913 Rail attached at the 9 o’clock for an additional light source.
• IPX4 water rating.

Pulsar Sentinel controls. All controls can be manipulated with gloves. *Click on picture for high resolution photo.

The Pulsar Sentinel GS 2×50 reticle options. Reticles are toggled by a button on the side of the unit. Photo courtesy of Pulsar.

Setting up my Ar-15 in preparation for testing and hunting, I found the weight of the scope wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be.  The Pulsar Sentinel GS 2×50 weighs 35 ounces/2.2 pounds , and aside from feeling a little “top heavy”, the scope didn’t feel any heavier than my Bushnell HDMR (32 ounces/2 pounds). The ar-15 that I would be using for testing and hunting was my Smith & Wesson M&P 15. The fire control and bolt carrier group were replaced with Colt parts and after several thousand rounds the gun has been utterly reliable. I think that if I were running a heavier rifle I would attach a Magpul AFG or a vertical fore grip several inches from the magwell to allow greater control of the rifle. Due to the size of the Pulsar Sentinel GS 2×50 I wasn’t able to successfully utilize a red dot scope in an offset position.  I did maintain my Streamlight TLR 1S in the 12 o’clock position as a backup just in case I had an angry wounded coyote charging me.

Due to the bulk of the unit I was not able to utilize a red dot sight using an offset mount.

Left side of unit has a rail to attach an additional light source.

Indicator lights. Top light shows if the device is on. Bottom light shows if the IR illuminator is on. Device and IR Illuminator are both on.

Testing was done on our ranch.  I sighted in the Pulsar Sentinel GS 2×50 using a laser bore sight. After a few adjustments I settled for a 50 yard zero. Since the scope is only a 2x I found it extremely hard to shoot anything less than a 5 inch group at 100 yards. After initial sight in I simulated a feral hog feeding station and setup up an 8 inch by 8 inch steel plate at 100 yards. I had no problems hitting steel at 100 yards from the prone position. I didn’t try to shoot past 100 yards.  The controls on the Pulsar Sentinel GS 2×50 were very easy to manipulate with gloves on. Air temperature according to my Kestrel was 28 degrees Fahrenheit and I didn’t experience any issues with batteries or the unit losing power.
I didn’t experience any “blooming” effect when firing due to the A2 flash hider on my rifle. I strongly recommend using a flash hider or a suppressor when hunting with night vision.  I can’t stress how clear the image was for being a Generation 1 tube. I have owned several Generation 1 night vision devices, and Pulsar’s CF-Super image tube created an image that was very similar to that of a Generation 2 image. There was no distortion around the edges, nor was there a “fish eye” effect. Testing was done on a clear night with plenty of moon light. I was amazed how far I could see through the scope. From an elevated position I could see all the East boundaries of the ranch, our working pens, telephone poles, fence lines, and the Gallinas Mountains, which were about 10 miles away.

The Coyote Kit. Foxpro Firestorm, Ar-15, Pulsar Sentinel and 5.11 pack.

Several weeks after initial sight in and testing, my cousin and I returned to the ranch to try to call in some coyotes. My cousin was armed with a 20 gauge Remington 870 shotgun, and a red lensed Surefire high lumen flashlight. After a 5 minute safety brief at the vehicle we wove some green glow sticks through the MOLLE attachments on our packs (Coyotes have a hard time seeing the green/520 -570 nm and red/620-740 nm  color spectrums….hence the green glow sticks and the red lensed Surefire) and quietly headed into a pasture far from our main cattle herd. After putting about a quarter mile between us and our vehicle we started calling using a Foxpro Firestorm. The call used was a distressed calf and since we were set up next to a barbwire fence, we would give the fence a shake to simulate a baby calf caught in the barbwire.  As I called, my cousin would slowly scan the prairie with his red lensed Surefire looking for the telltale eyes of a coyote. After 15 minutes of calling and experiencing no luck we decided to move our stand. I did a quick scan through the Pulsar Sentinel GS 2×50 and didn’t see anything. Packing up we hiked another 20 minutes, deployed the Foxpro and started a distressed rabbit call. Several minutes into the call my cousin tapped my shoulder and pointed towards a glowing set of eyes. Peering through the rifle scope I made out the bushy tale and large ears of a gray fox….a common yet very elusive animal on the ranch. We do not shoot the foxes on our ranch because they are vital for controlling the rodent population and are instrumental in maintaining a healthy eco system…they also pose no threat to our cattle. Several moments of observation passed before the fox picked up our scent, nodded as if to say “vaya con dios, amgios”, turned and trotted away.  Several stands later and we had neither called nor heard any coyotes in the area and we decided to pack it up and head home.

Do you have an old xenon bulb Surefire light you are not using anymore? You can use green or red photo gels for varmint hunting. Want to make an IR filter? Alternate the red and the blue gels until you can’t see any near IR light. *Don’t look directly at the light. Check Local, State and Federal laws before hunting with an artificial light source.

Depending on what I am doing I will simply cut the gel to fit inside the bezel. As long as you don’t run the light for a long time you shouldn’t have an issue with heat melting your gel.

Final Thoughts
The Pulsar Sentinel GS 2×50 Night Vision Rifle Scope is a no-nonsense piece of hardware that delivers a quality image and would be perfect for hunting feral hogs or predators at night.  Before you hunt with night vision please check your Local, State, and Federal laws. While I was testing the Pulsar Sentinel I was constantly evaluating the scope for Law enforcement/Military potential. I feel this scope strictly belongs in the hunting realm. With that said, Pulsar offers some incredible products that would be excellent for Military or Law Enforcement use.

Pulsar will be at the 2014 SHOT show, booth # 1414!

FLIR, the largest manufacturer of thermal technologies, and the original inventor of Forward Looking Infra-Red, surprised everyone at CES this year by announcing a compact and affordable thermal imager that fits on an iPhone.

This thermal unit acts as a case for the iPhone, and works with an additional daylight camera to produce the hybrid MSX images that FLIR has patented in their industrial cameras.

The whole thing retails for $350 and has a vague Q1 release date.

The secret to the FLIR ONE’s size is it’s new Lepton core. While previous Tau Core units like the FLIR TS32 or the LS64 were similar size and dimensions to a camera lens, the Lepton is a fraction of that. It’s possibly the smallest and most cost effective thermal core ever invented.

Andy Teich, President and CEO of FLIR told the Wall Street Journal that “Lepton represents our latest, most dramatic step toward our vision of becoming ‘the world’s sixth sense.’ Not only will Lepton support an array of new imaging applications, but its revolutionary price, size, and low power consumption will open new markets for the useful information and data that thermal technology provides.”

FLIR has been very aggressive in marketing this as a thermal solution for everyone. Some of the suggestions are great, like identifying the drafty spot on your front door. Some are slightly silly: play thermally enhanced hide-and-go-seek?

I would think TFB readers would have more interest in the wildlife aspect of it, where FLIR encourages you to “see wildlife behavior in total darkness and through light foliage.”

The problem with this statement is that the thermal detector inside the FLIR ONE is very small, 80×60 pixels according to reviewers. (FLIR isn’t promoting the sensor dimensions on their current datasheets)

The great images we see in the ads are MSX images, built to blend thermal and visible light information with some image enhancing algorithms. But when the lights literally go out, the MSX images lose half of their data. In this case you’re working with the lepton alone, and I am very skeptical of its real range capability.

The FLIR Scout PS24 is their entry level outdoor unit, and uses a 240×180 micro-bolometer, which gives it a 350 yard maximum range. That’s the distance necessary for a man sized heat signature to make one pixel on the array go white. You could argue that the more effective range is closer to 100 yards where an untrained user could begin to distinguish shapes and targets.

It’s very hard to say right now what ranges the 80×60 core will provide for low-light and no-light users. Time will tell whether the FLIR ONE and its Lepton core can become a serious opto-electronic solution, or remain firmly planted in the gadget arena.

The finalized production version of the Trijicon VCOG (Variable Combat Optical Gunsight) 1-6x24mm at the pre-SHOT Show Media Day at the Range Event. The VCOG will be available to Trijicon dealer shortly after SHOT Show 2014.

The VCOG features a non-protruding battery compartment at the center-line 6-O’clock position. Its integral mount is perfect for the AR-15/AR-10 sight-height. I would probably replace the standard ACOG slotted thumb screw base with a LaRue LT681 QD mounting base and flip it around for more forward off-set and eye relief.

The rheostat on left has six settings for the reticle illumination with the off position between each setting. The capped adjustment turrets offer 90 MOA of total windage and elevation range at 1/2 MOA per click.

The VCOG at 1x magnification. This image shows it features a true 1x magnification. The horseshoe reticle as shown is available with BDC for 55 gr and 77 gr .223 Rem/5.56mm caliber and 175 gr .308/7.62x51mm caliber. The segmented circle reticle variant includes the same 5.56 and 7.62 BDC plus a new 300 Blackout reticle calibrated for 115 gr supersonic load. I am assuming the 300 Blackout reticle would also work for 7.62x39mm out to 450m.

The VCOG at 6x magnification with steel targets at 435 yards. The reticle is located at the first focal plane and changes its size according to the magnification range. At the high settings, the reticle illumination is daylight-visible even in a bright day with a desert background. Due to the use of a large capacity AA battery, the battery life is outstanding at 700 hours on the setting #4.

At just 10 inches long, the VCOG is shorter than many 1-4x scope on the market. Its 24 ounce weight may seems to be a lot but please noted that the scope mount is build into the VCOG. A set of good quality SPR style scope rings typically adds 7-8 ounce weight to other scopes without integral mount. I found the VCOG has a more forgiving eyebox than all the 1-6x scopes, and many 1-4x scopes as well, I have used.

Trijicon VCOG 1-6x24mm Spec 

FLIR’s been making thermal sights for as long as people have been using the technology, but historically they have always been for governments, and always exorbitantly priced.

The R-series of thermal weapon sights are the latest offering from FLIR Personal Vision systems, and offer what looks to be an impressive system for an affordable price. As affordable as thermal gets anyway.

Unlike the T60 and T70 series from FLIR Government systems, the RS units are well under $10,000. The entry level unit, the RS-24 has an MSRP of $3499.

Like the ATN Odin or the Armasight Zeus: the Thermosight RS is a stand-alone rifle sight built on FLIR’s Tau core with a variety of palettes and reticles.

But the FLIR unit is much less a “tv screen” and more like a traditional rifle optic with 3 inches of eye relief and an integral Larue mount. With a 640×480 display in all variants of the RS, you get a clear image through the sight.

Recoil is always an issue with rifle mounting opto-electronics, and FLIR has built a recoil reduction system into the system. A strategic structural design means that the Thermosight is rated for recoil up to a semi-auto .308. One has to wonder what sort of calibers would be useable when combined with a Recoil Rail or similar additional system.

In all, six different rifle sights will fall under the R-series. The lowest magnification and sensor is a basic 1x lens with a 240×180 detecor and the highest is a 16x option with a 640×480 detector. Reticles are identical between models, but some colour palettes are reserved for the higher end units. Interestingly the 320×240 scopes run at a lighnting fast 60hz, while the base models, and the long range 640×480 options run at the standard 30hz.

The high magnification units use a manual focus while the smaller lensed units are an autofocus. All units have ± 6 eyepiece diopter that can compensate for different shooter’s eyes.

All the RS units use a lithium ion battery, which should last around 4 hours depending on the brightness of your display and the temperature of your environment. They charge using a standard USB, and are fully submersible, dust proof, etc.

Most of what you’ve just read is important, but could easily come off a FLIR datasheet. Some personal thoughts from my hands on time with the unit:

It feels like a proper rifle scope, not a camera slapped on a gun. That makes a difference to me.

I love that they included a standard German No. 4 reticle. And the ability to change its colours.

I’m a traditional FLIR guy: I use white hot polarity, or black hot polarity. That’s about it. Its neat that they’ve included a number of other palettes, but personally I’d never use them.

The menu and button interactions are well thought out and labeled. I was maneuvering through before the rep had a chance to explain them and everything made sense.

You can hold down the in or out button for a continuous zoom, which moves a little slow for my taste, but tapping them lets you quickly and easily jump between 4 different existing zooms.

I was worried they’d be heavy. Night vision sights of any kind are often much weightier than they’re daytime counter-parts. These were not. Depending on lens they hover around 2lbs more weight on your rifle.

I like the inclusion of nice looking FLIR branded lens covers, and appreciate the alternate rear eyepiece. This winged eyepiece is actually less for nighttime light discipline and more useful as a daytime block to keep the LCD display visible but keeping your eyeball back from the recoiling scope.

Since its inception Personal Vision Systems has been great at producing civilian and export legal devices. The RS certainly hits the first part of that, but I think it’s unlikely I’ll get to take one into the Canadian Rockies anytime soon. Curiously: as of press-time, there is still some uncertainty on whether the RS will be available in California.

The rest of the Free World should be getting their hands on all the RS variants this Spring.

The BROWE Combat Optic (BCO) is a military-grade 4×32 rifle optic with a machined titanium housing which is stronger than steel and lighter than aluminum. It is short and lightweight, keeping more of the rail free for gear and accessories. The BCO’s Target Light Sensor uses a photocell measure light levels at the target, not at the shooter. This means that the red chevron reticle’s illumination and contrast is appropriate for what’s being targeted through the optic regardless of the environment. For example, a shooter in bright sunlight targeting someone or something inside of a cave or building will get the proper brightness for the best shot. The brightness level is updated continuously as the shooter moves or lighting conditions change without requiring intervention on the part of the shooter.

A single control button is used to switch from OFF/SLEEP to AUTO to MANUAL. The manual mode overrides the automatic Target Light Sensor setting to provide steady reticle illumination. Manual mode has 10 daylight and 3 night vision brightness level settings which are cycled through. Holding the button for three seconds switches back to AUTO. The BCO also features a port for a remote pressure switch.

It’s powered by a lithium 123 battery for up to 2,000 hours and a minimum of 720 hours on full power. A vibration sensor conserves batter life by switching to SLEEP mode if no movement is detected for two hours. The housing has machined bosses for mounting small on the top and it has a 42mmx3mm ring for accepting threaded accessories such as dust covers, filters, or anti-reflection on the objective housing. The eyepiece housing has 30mm threads and the whole optic is waterproof down to 130 feet. The BCO comes with a choice of name-brand high-quality rail mounts.

EOTech released their new drop-in Laser Battery Cap for their 512 and 552 optics. It’s operated via a on/off toggle switch and also includes an accessory port for use with a remote pressure switch (which is sold separatly). Their Laser Battery Cap (LBC) simply replaces the cap on the 512/552 and is rated at between 36 and 60 hours of continuous use. It will have a starting MSRP of $285 and will be available in four different configurations.

From the press release

EOTech’s Holographic Weapon Sight technology will now be available commercially with lasers.

EOTech has designed a new drop-in replacement Laser Battery Cap (LBC) that can be used on all 512/552 Holographic Weapon Sights.

The EOTech LBC combines the lightning fast target acquisition of the Holographic Weapon Sight with the versatility of integrated aiming lasers to create an optic capable of excelling in any environment. These battery caps offer a low power red visible and IR laser making them ideal for home defense, CQB and force-on-force training.

The LBC’s operate through the use of an easy on/off toggle switch and come with an accessory port for a remote pressure switch (sold separately). They run on easy to find Lithium AA batteries for between 36 and 60 hours depending on laser type and usage. They are also waterproof to 10ft for up to one hour.
John Bailey Director of Product Development stated, “The 512 and 552 Holographic Weapon Sights have been some of our most successful products. This new Laser Battery Cap (LBC) doubles the aiming capability of the HWS without incurring the added cost of an entirely new sight.”

The new EOTech LBC’s are available in 4 configurations:
LBC: laser battery cap accessory, Visible Red Laser, compatible with all 512/552 models. MSRP: $285.00
LBC2: laser battery cap accessory, Visible & IR Laser, compatible with all 512/552 models. MSRP: $429.00
512.LBC: 512 Holographic Sight with the LBC. MSRP: $729.00
552.LBC: 552 NV compatible Holographic Sight with the LBC2. MSRP: $979.00

LBC -Laser Battery Cap Specifications
Visible Aiming Laser:Output Power: 5mW
Wavelength: 635nm (Nominal)
Class IIIR
IR Aiming Laser:Output Power: 0.7mW
Wavelength: 900nm (Nominal)
Class I
Operating Temperature:-40 to +140 F

We spent several hours out in the Las Vegas desert at the Metropolitan Police Dept’s range testing the new Wilcox Raptar.

The Raptar is a unique device that incorporates both visible and IR aiming lasers, an IR illuminator, and a laser range-finder. The integral laser range-finder is what really sets the Raptar apart from PEQ-15s and similar laser devices.

This unit was just starting to be available during the last half of 2013, but Wilcox is hoping to see it gain traction in the new year.

There are two modules to the Raptar that sit low on either side your picatinny rail. One side is the laser aiming module, the other is the rangefinder. In the center is a small LED display that provides ranging information. All the lasers are co-aligned, so once you have them zeroed you your scope or sights, you can direct the rangefinder component using your crosshairs.

While it might look large in photos, the Raptar is surprisingly light (10.8oz) and is designed to nestle behind the front sight base of an AR rifle. In this setup the iron sights are still available, and the lasers have a clear view of the target.

When making ballistics calculations for distant targets, the Raptar’s small shaded display gives you range output that you can feed into your scope or ballistics calculator. On close range targets, the red laser does what red lasers do best.

When using night vision systems, the IR laser and variable illuminator kick in, and the rangefinder’s display can be set to an IR out-put only.

It runs off a single CR123 battery, is available in black or tan, and includes a tape switch for remote activation of either laser system. This device covers all bases, and carries a $6,500 price tag as a result.

There is a rangefinder-less unit called the Raptar Lite that only includes the laser module; but I feel the integrated rangefinder is the most interesting differentiator. Out in the Nevada desert, I was able to ping 1400 yards without difficulty, in-line with the official 1500 meter capability.

Wilcox has taken things a step further, partnering with Applied Ballistics to bring us the Raptar M proto-type.

A substantial rework of the internal electronics means that Applied Ballistics found space for one of their chips inside the Raptar Chassis.

The M proto-type has a much more involved display screen (back-lit LCD rather than LED) and controls. But those enhanced controls mean that the unit now contains its own ballistics computer and weather chip to monitor atmospheric conditions.

The Raptar M’s rear display gives much more than just range. Instead it features:

• a virtual anti-cant device
• elevation information specific to your rifle load
• the ability to manually input windage
• the range itself

With that chip comes the ability to communicate via bluetooth via other Applied Ballistics devices to load new profiles onto your device.

An ambitious shooter should see the natural progression here: bluetooth synchonization between Applied Ballistics Kestrel unit’s and the Raptar M to provide live wind-data for a complete firing solution.

Its unclear whether that will be an option down the line, but it’s certainly on their minds.

With all this potential for growth and development, Wilcox has announcd that the Raptar will be fully upgrade-able to a Raptar M in the future. A purchase now can be converted later with a minimal upgrade fee.

With the rise of computer models and data in long-distance shooting, the Wilcox Raptar seems like a solid device for serious precision shooters.

Yesterday I noted the Browe Combat Optic, a titanium-housed optic that automatically sets reticle brightness based on lighting at the target. But not every shooter needs (or can afford) that kind of performance. As an alternative, Browe offers the Browe Sport Optic (BSO), a fixed-magnification 4x32mm daylight/low light optic housed in 6061-T6 aluminum.

The highlight of the BSO is what Browe calls “Rechargeable Illumination Technology” or RIT. It’s a battery-free method of illuminating the low light reticle with a flashlight. Shining high-power flashlight into the optic for fifteen seconds “charges” the reticle for three hours or more, and it can be re-charged with another 15-second blast from the flashlight. The low light reticle is available in green or blue. The daylight reticle is black.

The BSO is designed to be tough enough for military and professional use and is waterproof to 130 feet and retails for $940.