Some recent events with a friend's optics on his duty rifle have led to some conversations between he and I regarding optics quality and durability. I know we have some members here with legit long-term hard-use experience with optics. Not to exclude anyone, but guys like SLG, SeanM, F2S, Wayne Dobbs, just to mention a few.
Let's lay out a usage criteria: Intermediate range (25-600 yds) on a 5.56 carbine. Not specifically for entry/room clearing, but may be "pressed into" that role if it comes down to it.
The Low-power-variable (1-4, 1-5, 1-6, 1-8) seems to be the new hotness for all this, and while it works in theory, I've seen and experienced enough failures to make me gunshy; even from the top names. Other options are ACOGs and Aimpoint + magnifier.
Some of the LPV's I've seen/heard of failing:
NF 1-4
Trijicon Accupower 1-4
Burris (anything)
Bushnell
Some others are disqualified in my mind due to design characteristics:
Vortex Razor 1-6, heavy and useless for CQB if illumination fails (battery dies)
Leupold Mark 6 1-6, useless for CQB if illumination fails (battery dies)
Anything with exposed, non-locking turrets
Let's assume that we're talking about individual sustainability. Not, "we're going on this mission, fully-supplied with new batteries, air support, etc" but more like "we might be out here awhile and/or riding around in a patrol vehicle for awhile and then be called upon to perform at a moment's notice."
Aimpoint + magnifier combo:
CONS:
pretty narrow FOV
No holdover mechanism, so magnification only gets you target ID, not increased range.
PROS:
Great battery life (years)
Great 1X speed
Magnifier removable when not needed
ACOG:
CONS:
Fixed magnification
Load-specific BDC
PROS:
No batteries needed. Manage the FO bloom and you're golden
Etched reticle...something to see and aim with regardless of light conditions
At this point in the game, I'm beginning to wonder again if something like the Leupold 1.5-5 might be a better bet in terms of weight and durability. With the right reticle, daylight bright illumination is not required. I'm also strongly considering going back to a TA11H ACOG.
Please share your thoughts and experiences.