Nikon P-223 Anyone?
Hey there, new AR owner looking for the best all around optic in the $200-$300 dollar range. I pretty much use the gun at the range (weekend warrior), shooting anywhere from 50 - 200 yards. I originally had my mind set on an eotech 512 / 17, but after some more reading I am now unsure what I would like to get. I've recently found the Nikon P-223 3x32. I like the idea of 3x and also the $150 price tag. Should I go with a red dot with magnification, or stick to something like the P-223? I appreciate any suggestions and ideas!
Red dots and magnified optics excel in different areas. Red dots excel with speed at closer distances. Magnified optics excel with speed & accuracy at longer distances. That doesn't mean that a magnified optic cannot perform well at closer distances, but red dots are simply faster at closer distances because your brain doesn't have to fiddle with one eye being magnified and the other eye not magnified (when shooting both eyes open). Some close one eye when using magnified optics, but that can only slow you down even more. Red dot sights can be used at longer distances, but you have to be steady.
It just depends on what kind of shooting you want to do. I say get a good red dot and go from there. You will probably want another optic some day in the future anyway ... that or another rifle to put the other optic on.
Regardless which optic you choose, I prefer to use a good quick disconnect mount like a LaRue tactical mount or Bobro mount. These mounts allow you to remove them and put them back on the same weapon without losing your zero (don't have to sight it back in again).
With your price range you could easily get a Vortex StrikeFire or a Vortex SPARC. If you spend a little more you could get an excellent Aimpoint PRO. If you're trying to stay inexpensive then you could get a Primary Arms red dot that has a 1 year warranty if I'm not mistaken.
My personal choice was to go with a scope instead of the red dot. I also like the idea of a low powered scope on an AR, but I went with the Weaver classic V 1-3 scope. I'm very happy with it. It's default setting is at 1x which I prefer for off-hand shooting, or if it was ever needed for home defense. I "crank it up" to 3x when i rest it on a sandbag. It's also lightwieght and compact.
I don't have any experience with the P-223 as of yet. I am planning on getting one for one of my rifles, but I'm having trouble finding the 3x version in stock anywhere at the moment. I have had very good experiences with Nikon scopes in general, I expect the P-223 to be no different.
I have a Nikon M-223 2-8X32 with the BDC 600. The optics are extremely clear and the build is very rugged. IMO its a top quality scope at a killer price point.
I've got the 3x on a remington 597. It's very compact, but feels heavier than it needs to be. The reticle is simple, and since its a fixed power, there are no concern of accidentally using the bdc on the wrong magnification.
It's a great little basic scope for the $.
If you live near Cincinnati I can let you try out my eotech IM me if you are interested
i have the 3-12x42 m223 nikoplex nikon scope and I love it. also have the 20moa base. on a rra tactical operator 2
I'm curious as to what mounts allow this particular sight to clear Magpul BUIS. The pictures I see of the optic are all of ARs with no back up sights due to the mount. I'm guessing LaRue probably makes one?
Originally Posted By bimmertech87:
If you live near Cincinnati I can let you try out my eotech IM me if you are interested
That would be great, but unfortunately l'm in the Akron/Canton area. I appreciate the offer!
Originally Posted By spider556:
I'm curious as to what mounts allow this particular sight to clear Magpul BUIS. The pictures I see of the optic are all of ARs with no back up sights due to the mount. I'm guessing LaRue probably makes one?
I did not notice this until now. I also have the MBUS rear. Please let me know if you find anything out!
