ACOG, Still Viable? (9000 rounds later) [REVIEW]

Published on June 9, 2020
Duration: 11:51

This review of the Trijicon ACOG TA31 RCO A4, based on 7 years and 9000 rounds of use, highlights its extreme durability and excellent glass quality. While its fixed 4x magnification and ~1.5-inch eye relief are less versatile than modern LPVOs for general-purpose rifles, it excels as a lightweight, robust optic for 5.56mm mountain rifles, particularly when paired with an offset red dot for enhanced versatility. The BDC reticle, with fiber optic and tritium illumination, is effective for engaging targets at range.

Quick Summary

The Trijicon ACOG TA31 RCO A4, tested over 9000 rounds, is lauded for its extreme durability and excellent glass quality. While its fixed 4x magnification and short eye relief are less versatile than modern LPVOs for general use, it excels as a lightweight, robust optic for 5.56mm mountain rifles, especially when paired with an offset red dot.

Chapters

  1. 00:33Rifle and Optic Close-up
  2. 00:39Shooting Demonstration
  3. 01:33Video Introduction and Structure
  4. 02:00ACOG Model and Naming Convention
  5. 03:22Other ACOG Models and Specs
  6. 03:47ACOG Pricing and Value
  7. 04:08ACOG Key Features
  8. 04:21BDC Reticle and Zeroing
  9. 05:04Eye Relief and Field of View
  10. 05:31Durability and Weight
  11. 05:40Long-Term Use and Reliability
  12. 06:05Fiber Optic and Tritium Performance
  13. 06:54ACOG's Viability in 2020
  14. 07:53ACOG with Supplementary Optics
  15. 08:16Eye Relief Challenges
  16. 08:38Exceptional Field of View
  17. 09:40Ideal ACOG Application: Lightweight Mountain Gun
  18. 10:22Close-Quarters and Dynamic Shooting
  19. 11:07Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Trijicon ACOG still a viable optic for modern rifle builds?

The Trijicon ACOG, particularly the TA31 RCO A4, remains a viable optic for specific roles. Its extreme durability, excellent glass, and robust fixed magnification make it ideal for lightweight mountain rifles. However, its fixed 4x power and short eye relief are less versatile than modern LPVOs for general-purpose use.

What are the key advantages of the Trijicon ACOG?

Key advantages of the ACOG include its legendary durability, often described as 'bombproof,' maintaining zero through extreme abuse. It also boasts excellent glass quality, a lightweight package, and a dual illumination system (fiber optic and tritium) for reticle visibility in various lighting conditions. Its wide field of view is also a significant benefit.

How does the ACOG's eye relief compare to other optics?

The Trijicon ACOG TA31 models typically have a short eye relief of approximately 1.5 inches. While this can be challenging in awkward shooting positions, it contributes to a wider field of view. Other ACOG variants like the TA11 offer more forgiving eye relief (3-4 inches).

Can an ACOG be made more versatile for modern shooting applications?

Yes, the versatility of an ACOG can be significantly enhanced by pairing it with a supplementary optic, such as an offset or piggyback red dot sight. This combination allows for quick target acquisition at close ranges while retaining the ACOG's magnification for longer shots.

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