I'm sure this seemed like a good idea at the time

Published on June 17, 2026
Duration: 16:58

This video explores historical attempts to consolidate multiple electronic aiming and illumination devices onto a single firearm platform, focusing on the Burris TMPR prism optic system. It highlights the challenges of power management, accessory integration, and ergonomic usability in such systems, contrasting them with modern solutions and discussing why many early attempts failed. The presenter, identified as 'Pop' and an experienced instructor, details the technical shortcomings and design flaws of systems like the TMPR, Holosun LS420, and EOTech EOLAD, while acknowledging the innovation behind them.

Quick Summary

The Burris TMPR series attempted to consolidate firearm electronics by integrating a prism optic with a power-sharing system for up to three accessories. However, challenges with accessory placement, usability, and the nascent stage of piggyback red dot technology contributed to its limited success, unlike more modern, co-aligned systems like the Wilcox BOSS XE.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: The Problem of Multiple Batteries
  2. 01:32The Burris TMPR Series: An Ecosystem Concept
  3. 03:20Challenges of the TMPR: Accessory Placement & Usability
  4. 04:50TMPR Accessories: Fastfire III and VizLaser Module
  5. 08:00Other Integrated Systems: Holosun LS420/LE420
  6. 09:40EOTech EOLAD Series: Integrated Lasers
  7. 11:30The Wilcox BOSS XE: A Successful Integration
  8. 13:00Electrified Rail Systems: The Future That Wasn't?
  9. 14:30Conclusion: Why Consolidation is Difficult

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the main goal of the Burris TMPR series?

The Burris TMPR series aimed to create an integrated firearm accessory system. It featured a prism optic with a power-sharing capability, allowing up to three modular accessories like red dots or laser modules to draw power from the main optic's battery.

Why did early attempts at consolidating firearm electronics, like the Burris TMPR, often fail?

Early attempts often failed due to practical issues such as accessory placement making them difficult to activate or use, the limited power output of civilian-legal lasers, and the overall complexity of managing multiple electronic components and their power sources effectively.

What are the key differences between the Burris TMPR and the Wilcox BOSS XE?

The Burris TMPR was an add-on system with modular components, while the Wilcox BOSS XE is designed from the ground up as a single, cohesive unit. The BOSS XE features co-aligned emitters, meaning the aiming optic and laser modules are zeroed together, a significant advantage over the TMPR's separate adjustments.

Are there any modern successful examples of integrated laser and aiming modules on firearms?

Yes, the Wilcox BOSS XE is highlighted as a successful example. It integrates an IR designator, vis laser, and IR illuminator directly into a red dot sight, with all emitters co-aligned for simplified zeroing and improved usability, though it comes at a high cost.

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