Warning

 

Close
Confirm Action

Are you sure you wish to do this?

Cancel Confirm
AR15.COM
AR Sponsor
4/4/2008 6:39:28 PM EDT
I think I have narrowed it down to a eotech but I'm just not sure which one.  What benefits do you get that justify the price difference between models such as the 512, 552 or 553?  I tried the search function but keep getting nothing, may be down.

jtcannonball
4/4/2008 6:48:18 PM EDT
[#1]
The latter two will allow the use of night vision.  the primary other difference is the type of batteries it takes (and therefore the size and run time).
4/4/2008 6:59:09 PM EDT
[#2]
I think all three use AA from what I gleamed on the interweb, I would like to do some night hunting of coyotes and so I think the extra for night vision capable would be bonus.
4/4/2008 7:30:34 PM EDT
[#3]
553 uses CR132 batteries and ARMS levers on the base.  552 uses AA cells.  Both will allow the use of NV.  The 512 is basically the 552 w/o the NV capability.
4/4/2008 7:36:54 PM EDT
[#4]
If you are not planning to use it with night vision save the $$ and get the 512.  Eotechs like to get corrosion on the battery terminals so check them every so often.  I don't why this is.  I check mine every so often, but I alsowipe the batteries and terminals with an electronics anti-oxidant (Caig Labs D-5)
4/5/2008 2:30:10 AM EDT
[#5]
I'd definitely stick with the AA versions.  The N-cell versions I've used have had some major issues with battery life being far shorter than reported on EO-Tech's sight.  The AA versions have lived up to their advertising.

If you don't need the night vision, don't get it as an option.  I've seen a number of shooters accidentally hit their NV button while trying to turn the brightness up/down.  You can't see the reticle in NV mode with your naked eye making it an issue if you hit that NV button in the middle of a competition... or worse, a real shooting.
4/5/2008 6:27:39 AM EDT
[#6]
I have the 553 and have had the batteries cake up.  You just have to check them during your maintenance.  I haven't had any battery life issues.
I bought this with the hopes that someday being issued NV by my agency (long shot I know).
4/5/2008 8:14:04 AM EDT
[#7]
You should only use good quality brand name batteries, for starters.  I had some of those cheap Costco batteries leak into several pieces of gear - never again!

If you want maximum battery life and shelf life, get name-brand lithium AA cells.  Those are the ones that are spec'ed for 1000 hour battery life, while the alkalines are spec'ed at 600.  Name-brand lithiums cost more, but are less likely to leak, have much longer shelf life, and perform much better at low temperatures, compared to alkaline.

4/5/2008 8:39:52 AM EDT
[#8]
I just picked up a barely used 512 from the EE and am really diggin' it. I am not going to ever use NV so it would have been a waste of $$ to buy the 552. I installed Energizer lithiums as suggested in the manual.
AR Sponsor