Gear Reviews

In the 1990s, the .223 Wylde chamber was designed to accurize the 5.56 NATO for NRA High Power rifle competitions.

This single-piece platform elevates your red dot optics, magnifiers, aiming lasers, and clip-on thermal imagers by 0.83 inches, ensuring a more ergonomic and heads-up shooting stance.

Ah, the classic EOTECH 512. It is perhaps especially fitting that we have one in for testing, since it was such a star during America’s longest war. EOTECH was an instant hit with the US Military and came to the attention of many of us when the GWOT started in 2001.

Originally designed for the military, this adaptable platform is also perfect for various civilian uses. Reptilia listened to user feedback and added taller mounts for LPVOs with forward-mounted lasers.

The Thrive HD is also a first-rate option for recreational shooters, plinkers, and handgun hunters who need a compact red dot featuring a sharp reticle and long battery life.

From great edge-to-edge sharpness, and excellent clarity, to an integrated Arca-Swiss mount, this Vortex Razor HD has a lot going for it.

The Maven B.3 provids sharp, clean images, with controls that adjust quickly. All this in a small package that weighs just over a single pound and fits into my hand.

With options ranging from under $200 to over $2000, will the $600 Vortex Viper 1-6 be the king of mid-tier LPVOs? 

The AR-15 system does have similar components to a direct impingement system. It also has a piston built into the bolt carrier group or BCG.