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Archive for the ‘Optics’ Category

Wilcox Industries – US Army’s Grenadier Sighting System

Wednesday, October 2nd, 2024

The Grenadier Sighting System for the M320A1 Grenade Launcher Module is one of the most successful programs of the past few years and one of the least publicized.

Assigned NSN: 1010-01-686-8798, GSS provides the capability to accurately engage targets day and night with the M320 GLM. The GSS features include a reflex optical sight with integral back up iron sights, near infrared (NIR) aiming laser engagement for night engagements, NIR illuminator for increased detection and recognition at night, user selectable ballistic solution for up to 16 ammunition types, including quick selector for two pre-programmed ballistic solutions, atmospheric temperature and pressure sensors for ballistic compensation, and a cant indicator for increased accuracy when firing. Wilcox makes similar commercial version alternatives designated by the company as the Rapid Acquisition Aiming Module Grenadier Sighting System (RAAM GSS). The Wilcox RAAM GSS is an exportable version of the US Army selected and current production Grenadier Sighting System.

Manufacturer Wilcox Industries has created a three part series on the GSS. In Part 1 & Part 2, Wilcox covered the US Army’s search for a new 40mm M320 GL in 2009, their decision to choose theWilcox GSS as the single production awardee in June 2019 and the GSS’s initial production and discriminating features.

“The GSS is a significant improvement to the M320 and tremendously increases the Grenadier’s capability in all environments.”

– COL Jason Bohanon

Program Manager, Soldier Lethality

Next week, Wilcox publishes the final part to the GSS story. Learn more about the Development of the Wilcox Grenadier Sighting System or download the GSS Case Study.

Be sure to check it out in person at the AUSA Annual Meeting, October 14-16 at the Walter Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC in booth #3607.

Meprolight Unveils the MMX3/MMX4 – Micro Magnifiers for Assault Rifles, Providing Target Magnification of up to 4 Times for Any Red Dot Sight

Tuesday, October 1st, 2024

Enhancing Precision: The MEPRO MMX3/MMX4 Provides Soldiers with Improved Long-Range Capabilities and Short-Range Precision
Israel, October 01, 2024 – Meprolight (1990) Ltd., a member of the SK Group and a leading manufacturer of electro-optical systems, thermal and night vision equipment, as well as self-illuminated sights for military, law enforcement, and civilian applications, unveils the MMX3/MMX4 micro magnifiers for assault rifles. These compact and lightweight magnifiers provide up to 4x magnification for any red dot sight, significantly enhancing soldiers’ accuracy, range, and observation capabilities, thereby equipping them with marksman-like abilities.

In today’s conflict scenarios, the perception of assault rifles has shifted. Military forces, police forces, fast-response teams, and other security agencies use assault rifles equipped with red-dotsights. Meprolight’s magnifiers enable those users to achieve faster target identification and extremely high shooting precision at a lower cost compared with constant or variable magnification optical sights.

The MMX3/MMX4 micro magnifiers provide versatility for different setups and enhance operational flexibility. With no need for zeroing, they allow users to quickly attach them to the Picatinny rail only when needed and benefit from enhanced magnification without time-consuming adjustments.

With a quick-release Picatinny adapter and a side flip mechanismwhere agility and speed are of the utmost importance, it enables users rapid target acquisition with both eyes open maintaining afull field-of-view; only when mission requires the magnifier can be quickly engaged.

Compact and weighing less than 200g they reduce the footprint, saving rail space and weight for the user. Elevation and windage adjusters provide precise alignment of FOV with sight’s reticle.

The Mepro MMX3 and Mepro MMX4 micro magnifiers attach to any MIL-STD-1913 rail directly behind the optic.

“The Mepro MMX3/MMX4 were developed to meet the growing need for improved shooting capabilities in the field,” says Golan Kalimi, SVP Marketing at Meprolight. “We are proud that these magnifiers have already been operationally proven and are being used by the IDF, Israel Police, and other forces around the world. By enhancing long-range target acquisition and short-range precision all at a reasonable cost, capabilities that were previously reserved for specialized marksmen are now available for every soldier and user, significantly contributing to force mission success.”

Primary Arms SLx 1-6x24mm SFP Rifle Scope with ACSS NOVA Reticle Named Industry Choice Awards (ICA) 2024 Scope of the Year

Monday, September 30th, 2024

HOUSTON, TEXAS — The Primary Arms SLx 1-6x24mm SFP Rifle Scope with ACSS NOVA Reticle has been recognized as the Industry Choice Awards (ICA) 2024 Scope of the Year. This accolade, awarded by a panel known for its stringent evaluation criteria, underscores the scope’s balanced design, reliability, and value—a combination that outperformed many of its higher-priced counterparts in this year’s competition.

The SLx 1-6x24mm, now in its fourth generation, features a fully upgraded optical system, offering users enhanced image clarity and consistent performance in various conditions. It’s lightweight, compact, and incorporates many technologies found on premium LPVOs, including the fiber optic-powered ACSS NOVA, an advanced reticle that delivers Red Dot Bright® illumination for split-second target acquisition in close-quarters. These features helped the SLx 1-6×24 SFP Rifle Scope win this year’s Industry Choice Awards (ICA) ‘Scope of the Year’, recognizing its performance in extensive real-world testing.

Established to recognize excellence in product development, the ICA gathers a diverse panel of experts, including gunsmiths, competitive shooters, instructors, and industry professionals, to rigorously evaluate entries across various categories. Products are judged not just on technical specifications but also on real-world performance, durability, and user satisfaction. The comprehensive testing process includes hands-on trials in different conditions, allowing the ICA to identify products that truly excel in both design and functionality.

“Recognition from the ICA is particularly meaningful because it reflects the views of both industry professionals and end-users. The SLx 1-6x24mm’s performance in the field speaks volumes about our team’s dedication to creating optics that deliver the best performance for their value,” said Stephen Morgan, Director of Product Marketing at Primary Arms Optics.

For more detailed information on the SLx 1-6x24mm SFP Rifle Scope and the ACSS NOVA Reticle, click here.

ZeroTech Optics Unveils the THRIVE Spotting Scope Embargo

Thursday, September 26th, 2024

Nashville, TN – ZeroTech Optics is proud to announce the release of the THRIVE Spotting Scope (TH206085), a versatile, high-performance tool designed for both hunting and long-distance observation. Built to rival high-end brands at a fraction of the price, the THRIVE Spotting Scope delivers outstanding optical clarity and precision, ensuring that outdoor enthusiasts and hunters experience top-tier performance without breaking the bank.

Superior Features for Enhanced Performance

The THRIVE Spotting Scope is packed with features that make it an invaluable asset for both hunting and observation.Whether you’re checking targets at the rifle range or scanning the horizon for distant wildlife, this scope offers unparalleled optical performance.

Key Features:

20-60x Magnification: This versatile magnification range allows users to seamlessly adjust between wide-angle viewing and detailed long-range observation, making it ideal for hunters needing precision from afar and observers scanning large areas.

85mm Objective Lens: The large objective lens ensures maximum light gathering, providing bright, clear images even in low-light conditions like early morning hunts or overcast observation days. This feature is critical for maintainingvisibility in varying environments.

Combined Prism Type: Engineered for durability and high-quality image output, the combined prism design offers superior resolution and sharpness, critical for detailed observation, whether spotting game or identifying distant objects on a nature hike.

Fully Broadband Multi-Coated (FBMC) Lenses: The FBMC technology enhances light transmission while reducing glare and reflections, ensuring crisp, clear images. This is particularly beneficial for both hunters and observers who rely on high contrast and bright optics for long periods.

Tube Focus System: The smooth and easy-to-adjust focus system offers precise control, enabling users to fine-tune their image clarity quickly. This feature is essential when seconds matter, whether zeroing in on a target or tracking fast-moving wildlife.

Integrated ARCA Compatible Tripod Adapter: This feature allows for secure and direct mounting to ARCA-compatible tripod heads, providing stability and ease of use in the field. Hunters and observers alike will appreciate the ability to set up quickly and securely for extended viewing sessions.

Conventional 1/4×20 Thread: The standard tripod compatibility ensures the spotting scope can be easily used with most tripods, making it accessible for a wide range of users.

IPX5 Waterproof Rating: Built to withstand harsh weather conditions, the IPX5 waterproof rating ensures that the THRIVE Spotting Scope performs reliably, whether in rain, snow, or humid environments, making it a perfect companion for outdoor enthusiasts.

Soft Carry Case/Bag Included: The durable carrying case provides protection during transport, and can be left on while using the scope on a tripod, ensuring your gear remains safe in the field.

Why It’s Perfect for Hunters and Observers

The THRIVE Spotting Scope has been crafted with the needs of both hunters and wildlife observers in mind. The high magnification and superior light transmission capabilities make it easy to track moving targets at long distances, while the durable, weather-resistant design ensures it can withstand the rugged conditions of the wilderness.

For birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, the scope’s clarity and sharpness allows for detailed observation of wildlife from afar, without disturbing the natural environment. Whether you’re a precision shooter at the range or an avid outdoorsmanscanning the landscape, this spotting scope delivers consistent, reliable results.

Passive Aiming with Night Vision: Optic Selection and Compatibility

Saturday, September 21st, 2024

In low-light shooting, ‘passive aiming’ is a technique wherein the shooter aims through their optic (usually red dot sights or holographic sights) rather than using an external aiming laser. The key advantage here is that passive aiming doesn’t emit any visible or infrared light that could reveal the shooter’s position, making it a safer option when faced with a threat that may be equipped with night vision.

The feasibility of passive aiming depends heavily on the compatibility between the optic and the NODs. Not all optics work well; some may offer a clear reticle under night vision, while others may struggle with head positioning or poor light transmission. Hence, choosing the right optic is essential for any dedicated night vision setup.

In this article, we’ll cover some of the core concepts behind passive aiming, including why some manufacturers market their optics as ‘night vision compatible’ and others do not. We’ll also look at best practices for choosing and setting up your optic to make passive aiming as straightforward as possible.

Passive Aiming: Benefits and Limitations

In low-light or no-light environments, maintaining stealth is crucial, especially when facing adversaries who might also be equipped with night vision capabilities. Active aiming, which involves using infrared lasers or illuminators, will instantly compromise a shooter’s location if the opponent is equipped with NODs. Passive aiming eliminates this risk by allowing the shooter to engage targets without broadcasting their position.

Passive aiming does, however, come with many challenges and potential downsides, especially when the optic isn’t set up properly.

When aiming passively, the shooter must align their eye, the optic, and the target through the night vision device, which can be a lot more difficult than it sounds. The shooter must maintain a consistent cheek weld, which is especially challenging when shooting from unconventional positions.

Another limitation is the restricted field-of-view of NODs and the innate tunneling effect of looking through an optic. Passive aiming tends to create a very linear focus through the optic. In contrast, active aiming with a laser allows the shooter to maintain a broader situational awareness and react to peripheral threats.

Given the immense trade-offs that exist between both passive and active aiming, current best-practice involves a mix of both shooting techniques, swapping depending on the demands of the situation and known capabilities of the opposing force.

Still, many of the tradeoffs of passive aiming can be mitigated by selecting the right optic and mount.

Night Vision Compatibility

As we’ve mentioned, not all optics are created equal when it comes to night vision compatibility.

To be considered night vision-compatible, an optic must allow the user to view the reticle clearly through NODs without causing excessive glare or reticle bloom. At the most basic level, a night vision compatible optic must have a reticle that can be dimmed sufficiently so that it doesn’t overpower the night vision tubes.

But simply being compatible isn’t necessarily synonymous with ‘good.’ In fact, many optics that are marketed as ‘night vision compatible’ aren’t effective due to other design aspects, such as poor light transmission or excessive body obstruction.

When selecting an optic for night vision use, three critical factors should be considered: illumination settings, window size, and glass quality.

Illumination Settings: The ability to adjust the brightness of the reticle is essential. Most ‘night vision compatible’ optics will have a ‘night vision’ setting in the illumination controls. Multiple night vision settings are ideal, since there can still be a big difference in light levels under NODs. In urban areas, for example, you might have enough light pollution that a single ‘night vision’ brightness is too dim.

Window Size: The size of the optic’s window or lens is another important consideration. A larger window provides a clearer field of view and makes it easier to align the reticle with the target, even in awkward shooting positions.A larger window also helps accommodate for the blur of the optic body, which can make small-windowed optics feel dark or claustrophobic.

Lens Quality: Good lens design goes a long way in improving visibility through the optic, especially when combined with a low-profile body. Because of the focal distance of NODs, your optic body will usually blur around the optic window, so having a good clear window with minimal obstruction is important.

The Prevalence of Reflex Sights

Reflex sights, which include red dot sights and holographic sights, are the most common optics used with night vision devices. To summarize. these sights work by projecting a reticle—typically a red dot or a holographic pattern—onto a lens that the shooter views through. The reticle is superimposed on the target, allowing for quick target acquisition.

Since these optics are compact, lightweight, and have unlimited eye relief, they’re the most obvious choice for use with night vision. It’s very easy to set up a red dot with an extended mount and use it with minimal change in handling or behavior. And since low-light inherently limits your engagement distance, the lack of magnification is less of a tradeoff.

The only consistent issue with reflex sights is astigmatism. Under NODs, astigmatic blur isn’t an issue because it’s being passed through the night vision, but when moving into full light, ocular astigmatism will distort the reticle. This is accentuated by the variability of lighting conditions in urban environments.

Scopes and Night Vision

Using scopes with NODs introduces a unique set of challenges and considerations that differ from using reflex or red dot sights.

Standard rifle scopes are designed to gather and focus light during daylight hours, but when used with night vision, the light transmission properties of the scope can affect the clarity and brightness of the image. This is particularly problematic when using higher magnifications, as the image can become dimmer and more difficult to see through the night vision device.

Additionally, achieving the correct eye relief can be tricky, especially when using a rear-mounted night vision device, which might require the scope to be repositioned. While extended-height scope mounts and compact scopes are improving compatibility, it’s still significantly harder to line up a full rifle scope than any microdot or holographic sight.

Ultimately, setting up a scope for night vision usually involves attaching a dedicated clip-on, separate from helmet-mounted night vision. Alternatively, many have chosen to run an offset red dot with a scope, so that they can swap between the two as needed.

MicroPrisms: Do They Work?

MicroPrisms are a relatively new type of optic from Primary Arms that combines the simplicity and durability of a traditional prism scope in a reflex-sized body. These optics are typically fixed at a low magnification, often 1x, making them particularly useful for close to medium-range shooting. And unlike red dots or holographic sights, MicroPrisms have an etched reticle and diopter, meaning that they aren’t affected by astigmatism.

MicroPrisms come with multiple NV-compatible brightness settings, but the diopter and etched reticle lead many to question whether MicroPrisms are truly usable.

The answer is yes, though it does take a little more work to line up the diopter of the optic with the diopter of the NODs to make sure the optic is tuned for both daylight and NV. Even though MicroPrisms have an eyebox, they are significantly more forgiving than your average rifle scope, and the compact size means that it’s easier to accommodate through mount placement.

Basically, if you have astigmatism issues with red dots, or just prefer the etched reticle, 1x MicroPrisms are a perfectly viable option for night vision and passive aiming.

Practical Tips for Selecting and Setting Up Optics for Night Vision

Selecting and setting up optics for use with night vision devices involves careful consideration of compatibility, mounting height, and troubleshooting potential issues.

Look for optics that offer night vision-specific brightness settings that can accommodate a wide variety of light levels. Red dot sights and holographic sights from Aimpoint and EOTech are the most popular choices due to their simplicity and ease of use, but MicroPrisms are also gaining popularity as an alternative for their astigmatism compatibility.

Either way, mount height and positioning are crucial for effective use with night vision. The mount height should allow the optic to align naturally with your NODs when you’re in your shooting stance. Heights around 1.93 to 2.26 inches are popular for night vision setups, as they will fully clear a top-mounted IR device and allow you to maintain a heads-up posture, which is more comfortable and efficient when using NODs. However, be mindful that higher mounts might make close-range accuracymore challenging due to height-over-bore. You also need enough clearance between the front of your night vision from the rear of the optic, ensuring that they don’t bump into one another under recoil.

Common issues when using night vision optics include reticle bloom, acquisition problems, and light transmission. To prevent reticle bloom, always start with the lowest brightness setting on your optic and gradually increase it until the reticle is visible but not overpowering. If you are having trouble getting behind the sight, particularly with higher mounts, you may need to adjust your shooting stance or experiment with different mount heights to find the most comfortable and effective setup. If an optic has poor visibility through the lens, make sure that you have a clean lens, as dust and contaminants can inhibit image clarity.

Conclusion

Selecting and setting up optics for night vision use is a nuanced process that requires a deep understanding of both your equipment and the conditions under which you’ll be operating.

Throughout this guide, we’ve covered the importance of choosing optics that are specifically designed or compatible with night vision devices, such as reflex sights, holographic sights, and MicroPrisms. We’ve also discussed the critical role of proper mount height and positioning to ensure seamless alignment and functionality in low-light environments.

Night vision is a powerful tool that, when paired with the right optics and proper setup, can give you a significant tactical advantage. However, like all tools, it requires familiarity and skill to be used effectively. As you move forward, it’s crucial to experiment with your gear and engage in regular training to become proficient with your night vision setup. The more you practice in realistic scenarios, the better you’ll understand the strengths and limitations of your equipment and aiming techniques.

Anduril Collaborates with Microsoft to Bring Lattice to the U.S. Army’s IVAS Program

Friday, September 20th, 2024

Anduril Industries is proud to announce a new collaboration with Microsoft aimed at advancing the U.S. Army’s Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS) Program. This partnership includes initial integration of Anduril’s Lattice platform into the IVAS ecosystem, leveraging Anduril’s software and systems integration expertise, to enhance the capabilities fielded to Soldiers through IVAS.

Anduril successfully integrated Lattice into Microsoft’s IVAS hardware and software platform, enabling Soldiers to see real time threats across the battlespace. This integration demonstrates the interoperability and extensibility of the Lattice software and IVAS platform. Soldiers wearing Lattice-enabled IVAS headsets are rapidly warned of incoming autonomously-detected airborne threats, enhancing survivability in complex, contested environments. The integration of Anduril’s systems, alongside third-party technologies, is set to propel the IVAS mission capabilities forward.

Palmer Luckey, Founder of Anduril Industries and Oculus VR, is spearheading this strategic initiative for Anduril. Pairing Palmer’s commercial expertise in VR/AR systems with Anduril’s technology creates expansive additive value for the Army, Soldiers and the IVAS program. “This project is my top priority at Anduril, and it has been for some time now. It’s one of the Army’s most critical programs being fielded in the near future, with the goal of getting the right data to the right people at the right time,” said Palmer Luckey, Founder of Anduril Industries. He continued, “This is Anduril’s bread and butter, and we’ve been building the backbone for this for years. I can’t wait to show our customers what’s next — I’m incredibly excited about what’s to come.”

Robin Seiler, Corporate Vice President of Mixed Reality at Microsoft, added: “IVAS is more than the sum of its parts. Through integration across existing and new software and sensors, IVAS brings a full picture of the battlefield to every soldier, enabling safer and more effective operations. Our collaboration with Anduril to integrate their suite of critical sensors, along with their groundbreaking Lattice system into IVAS, demonstrates the transformative capability of this fighting goggle and will allow us to further expand the impact IVAS will have for every U.S. soldier.”

IVAS is a platform designed to ingest data from a host of sensors, including those integrated on the headset, attached to weapon systems and via third party devices and software, giving Soldiers unprecedented visibility on the battlefield. With the integration of Anduril’s Lattice system, Soldiers will have a significantly enhanced capacity to detect, track and respond to threats in real time while rapidly expanding the mission capabilities available to Soldiers around the world.

www.anduril.com

GERMAN PRECISION OPTIC USA’s Super Compact CENTURI 4-16x44i Combines FFP High Magnification with Extreme Compactness

Wednesday, September 18th, 2024

RICHMOND, Va. (Sept. 16, 2024) — Tactical operators and shooters using short, lightweight tactical rifles demand both precision and high-end variable power in their riflescopes. The GPO Super Compact CENTURI 4-16x44i provides the smallest and lightest package in today’s market.

Measuring only 9.9 inches in length and weighing just 20 oz., this new GPO Super Compact CENTURI 4-16x44i features DOUBLE HD glass elements, which deliver exceptional optical clarity. The MIL illuminated reticle, coupled with .1mil radian click turrets featuring a zero-stop locking ballistic functionality, ensures precise targeting and swift adjustments. The addition of a fast-focus ocular and a 3rd turret parallax adjustment knob enhances the overall shooting experience. GPObright™ lens coating technology and PASSIONdrop™ hydrophobic lens coatings ensure clarity in the most challenging light conditions. Designed for short ultralight tactical rifles, the CENTURI 4-16x44i meets every tactical feature discerning shooters seek.

“Crafted for shooters demanding FFP (first focal plane) high magnification in extreme compactness, this riflescope embodies the perfect fusion of value and performance,” said Mike Jensen, GPO USA’s owner and CEO. “At just 9.9 inches long, it combines FFP precision, double HD glass, MIL-based reticle, and zero-stop locking turrets — perfect for short ultralight tactical rifles. It’s the most compact high-performance riflescope of its kind found anywhere and delivers unmatched value and performance in a compact form.”

CENTURI 4-16x44i Super-Compact FFP Riflescope Specifications

Reticle: MIL-FFP

Weight: 20 oz.

Length: 9.9 oz.

Eye Relief: GOOD 3.75 in.

FOV @ 100y: 34-9

Tube Size: 30mm

Turret Click Adjustment: 0.1 milrad

Max Elevation Adjustment: 22 milradian, 80″

Max Windage Adjustment: 100″, 36 milradian

Turret Style: ZeroStop Locking Reset

Parallax Setting: 10y to inf.

Magnification: 4-16X

Turret Rotation Style: Counter-Clockwise Up

This first-of-its-kind riflescope will be available this spring at select retailers nationwide and conveniently online at www.gpo-usa.com for $619.99. For more information, as well as a look at GPO USA’s complete lineup of riflescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, laser rangefinders, accessories, and much more, visit the company’s website, www.gpo-usa.com.

Primary Arms Optics Releases New GLx 1x MicroPrism

Monday, September 16th, 2024

HOUSTON, TEXAS — Primary Arms Optics has announced the release of the GLx® 1x MicroPrism, a compact and versatile prismatic optic built for optimal close-quarters performance without being affected by astigmatism. Designed as an evolution of the popular SLx® MicroPrism, the GLx 1x MicroPrism offers a range of improvements that make it the ideal solution for shooters seeking precise and fast target acquisition.

Priced at $299.99, the GLx 1x MicroPrism brings several new advancements to the table, including a larger objective lens that provides a wider eye box and improved light transmission. The GLx 1x MicroPrism has nearly unlimited eye relief, allowing users to engage targets effectively from a variety of shooting positions, including non-traditional or awkward angles. This makes it a fantastic alternative to traditional red dot sights, especially for shooters looking for a more rugged and precise solution without the drawbacks of a battery-powered reticle. With 8 mounting options included in the package, users have extensive flexibility to customize the optic’s height and placement on their firearm, ensuring a perfect fit for any setup.

Available in both red and green illumination options, the etched ACSS® Cyclops reticle ensures precise aiming, even for those with astigmatism. Like its predecessor, the GLx 1x MicroPrism has a long battery life, which is further improved by AutoLive® technology. However, this new optic now features low-profile push-button controls, replacing the traditional knob design for a sleeker, less obstructive peripheral view.

“The GLx 1x MicroPrism shows our commitment to innovation and customer feedback. By upgrading the glass, enhancing durability, and providing intuitive controls, we’ve delivered a prism optic that is faster and more precise at any distance,” said Stephen Morgan, Director of Product Marketing at Primary Arms Optics. “For everything from personal defense to competition shooting, the GLx 1x MicroPrism delivers top-tier performance in a compact package.”

For more detailed information on the GLx 1x MicroPrism, please visit primaryarmsoptics.com or shop online at your favorite Primary Arms Optics dealers, including www.primaryarms.com.