The U.S. military started adopting optics like these in the 1990s, and it just grew from there.
They are as KISS (keep it simple stupid) as possible, but they have limitations.
Test Your Reflexes
So,why choose a reflex or red dot sight over a traditional scope?
Red dot sights are well known for their capabilities at close range. Can they be useful at 500 yards? Today, we find out.
And, there is also the question of durability.
The ACOG was a fixed optic with low magnification and was perfect for typical engagement distances normally encountered.
Clearly, something else was needed.
Even with a 3X magnifier, a red dot can be tough to get on a silhouette-sized target at extreme ranges. With practice, however, it can be done.
This is where reflex sights came into their own.
This can be accomplished in several ways, and each has its advantages and disadvantages.
Most people have their personal preference of which method and reticle or image is projected.
Many 3X magnifiers, like the Meprolight shown above, can be mounted on a system that allows you to quickly swing it into position when a longer shot presents itself.
The most typical is a simple red dot.
This is referred to as parallax free, which most quality reflex sights offer.
One way to easily and quickly extend the range of a red dot is to add an optional magnifier.
Another term you often hear is battlesight.
Its an optic that is tough as nails, will take a beating and keep working.
So, I kitted up the Hellion with the Meprolight Tru-Vision along with a Meprolight MX3 magnifier unit.
With the 3X magnifier out of the way, a shooter can engage the target with the non-magnifying red dot sight.
Over the course of a range session, I pushed the Hellion out to several hundred yards.
During that day, I discovered the gun and the optic made for a very capable combination.
It quickly proved itself at 300 yards right out of the gate and all with FMJ range ammo.
The author, shown above, was able to hit his target standing at 300 yards using the Hellion and a 3X magnified red dot from Meprolight.
How did it do?
It was dead on.
I was able to consistently hit every shot at that distance.
At 300 yards, the magnifier allowed the author to accurately place rounds on target.
So, I pushed it out to 300, and I hit again.
I was able to do it again.
In fact, it proved to be even more effective than I would have expected with these demanding requirements.
Ammo is another part of the accuracy equation. In this test, the author used AAC-manufactured 5.56 NATO rounds.
Its a match made in heaven.
Go to forum thread
HellionTMSeries
MeprolightTru-Vision
MeprolightMX3
AAC5.56 NATO 55 gr.
Without a 3X magnifier, the 500-yard target looks darn near impossible to hit with a standard red dot sight.
