I've just completed my Mk18 Mod 1 build and for the first time I can't decide on what optic I want to mount on this rifle, I've been thinking about it since the beginning of this build and I haven't made any progress. I've currently own several Aimpoints (M2s & M4s), one EoTech, and a Trijicon 1-4x all mounted on other battle rifles. For the Mk18 I believe the correct optics are the Eotech 553, or Elcan Specter DR Tan, however, I'm also fairly certain there are a bunch with Aimpoint M2/3s mounted.

I'm really leaning hard towards the Specter FDE, because I like that it's both 1x and 4x, can mount a RMR, has great battery life and will run without batteries. However, these same features are drawing me towards the Trijicon TA31ECOS. Then reality sinks in and I realize the rifle has a 10.5" barrel and therefore is limited to only a couple hundred yards and both optic's BDCs will be incorrect. At this point I start thinking about the correct 553 or the new EXPS Tan Eotech, but they don't have a great track record and aren't as light as the T1. I like the T1 except for I have at least 6 other aimpoints one of which is on a Mk18 Mod 0 build and I want something different. I've now come full circle back to the Specter or TA31ECOS.

Which would you put on a Mk18 Mod1, if it's not on my list please let me know what it is. The price needs to be <$2000.00 and I would prefer a military optic not something designed for 3 gun like the Swarovski Z6i.

I'm sitting here with the same issue.  I put a T-1 on my Mod 1 and it just didn't look right.

I am leaning toward an Aimpoint M4 with a standard mount.  It's mil issued and doesn't have the EoTech issues.

Double post

I like the 553 on my MK18-ish build, but would like to someday switch to the Elcan DR whenever I've gathered enough pennies.

ETA: I used to have the T-1 and Comp M4 on it but swapped out for the 553 to be more "correct" to the build.  I'd have to say that the T-1 was probably my favorite optic in comparing the red dots though.

Elcan Spectr DR 1-4, that or the IOR Valdada Pitbull, both have 1-4x capability.  I will never recommend EoTech, my patrol issued rifle has an EoTech 552 and I have had to change the batteries on the thing atleast 3 times in 1yr, I usually turn it on when I'm working:) I keep it on my service issued weapon, because it was FREE for me, if I had a choice at something different, I'd jump on it.

The Aimpoint CompM4 2MOA dot with a 5x magnifier is another good choice.