There are many options when it comes to the wide world of optics for tactical use, hunting, and target shooting. Red dots and holographic are great for fast target acquisition at close to medium range. Scopes are made for precision shooting at medium and long range.
In an effort to do it all, prisms and LPVOs are not particularly better at any distance, and often worse at some. Enter the 35 degree offset red dot, a close range solution to magnified optics. Offset red dots allow a rifle with a magnified optic to be a proficient close range weapon as well.
The user is free to choose the magnified optic that best fits their distance shooting needs and have an offset red dot for closer threats. The 35 degree offset red dot mount allows the user a faster transition between their red dot and magnified optic compared to a traditional 45 degree offset red dot mount which requires more movement and weapons manipulation. We will explore offset red dots, and why a 35 degree offset red dot mount is the best choice.
Reasons for Offset Red Dots
Prisims/ACOG
I may have been a little hard on LPVOs and Prism optics in the above paragraphs, but there is a point to the saying ‘jack of all trades is a master of none.’ Prism optics became extremely popular during the War on Terror and the wide adoption of the Trijicon ACOG (Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight).
However, the 4X magnification proved to be challenging in close quarters engagements, and less than ideal for distances above 500 yards. Due to close range difficulties, the Bindon Aiming Concept was developed and incorporated into training.
The Bindon Aiming Concept incorporates the physiological science of vision where both eyes remain open, the dominant eye tracking the recital and the non-dominate eye viewing the target and surroundings. It takes a bit of training to get used to, but with practice, you can become very proficient. However, with the same amount of practice you will be more proficient with a red dot in close range.
LPVO (Low Power Variable Optic)
LPVOs are an innovative approach to modern shooting needs. Later fighting during the War on Terror saw longer engagement distances, most past 300/500 yards and much further. At these distances magnification became essential to winning engagements quickly, and red dots, ACOGs, etc were not the answer. LPVOs usually range from 1-4, 1-6, 1-8, or 1-10 power, and can easily these accomplish long shots. The downside of an LPVO is transitioning powers form near to far and vis versa quickly. Even on 1 power (no magnification) the design of an LPVO means the shooter still has to deal with eye relief, and the reticle is a ranging reticle. LPVOs are very capable of close range shooting, and again, with training one can be very proficient. However, LPVOs are really not a great option for close range.
Offset Red Dots
Offsetting a red dot on a fighting rifle solves all these problems. Red dots are surpassed by magnified optics at 50 yards, and magnified optics are not ideal closer than 50 yards. Instead of trying to combined both into one optic like an LPVO or Prism, why not actually have both? Enter the offset red dot, a close range solution on a long range rifle.
By offsetting a red dot the user can still use their scope or LPVO without interference, and if the need arises for a closer shot, simply rotates the firearm to use the red dot. This is the ‘best of both worlds’ type of set up because the user actually has both worlds. If you are searching to make your rifle a vestal “Do-it-all” rifle, this is the way to go.
Typically an RMR modeled red dot such as the Tacticon Armament Predator V4 or Trijicon RMR is advised to reduce weight, but any small to moderate red dot can work as well.
The Downside of Offset Red Dots
There are two down sides to offset red dots, and the first is weight. Overall, offsetting an RMR style red dot such as the Tacticon V4 will only add a couple of ounces to the weapon, which is negatable. The other downside, unfortunately, is price. You would be adding a second optic to your firearm and paying for it.
Red dots can be relatively affordable, in the case of the Tacticon armament Predator V3 which can be offset (but will add more weight). Most commonly though, is offsetting an RMR style red dot. The Predator V4 is an affordable alternative to the Trijicon RMR, and comparable to the Holoson 507, making it an exceptional quality optic for the price.
Tacticon Armament 35 Degree Offset Mount
Compatibility and Design
The Tacticon Armament 35-degree offset mount utilizes a RMR footprint ensuring compatibility with a wide range of optics across the industry. The mount’s design is specifically tailored to accommodate our newest offering, the Predator V4, among other popular optics such as the Holosun 507, Trijicon RMR, and any other RMR patterned optics.
Effortless Transitions
What sets the 35-degree offset mount apart is its unique angle. There are not many companies that make a 35 degree offset mount. A 35 degree offset mount means the user needs less overall movement to transition between optics. This leads to faster, more natural transitions, minimal movement, and better focus. Utilizing a red dot on a 35 degree offset mount means you can leave your magnified optic on a higher power. To transition, simply roll the rifle’s positioning on your shoulder from the red dot to the magnified optic, staying on target the whole time.
Durability and Affordability
Our 35 degree offset mount is machined from a solid piece of 6061 T-6 aluminum. It is designed to withstand a high degree of punishment. Its durability and can be mounted ambidextrously on any picatinny rail. The 35-degree offset mount proves that quality and affordability can coexist without compromise.
Having an offset red dot with a magnified optic means paying for two optics, but the mount will not be much of an extra expense. Tacticon Armaments 35 degree offsite mount means a faster transition, more natural positioning, and a more versatile weapon set up. Try one out for yourself and experience the difference, you will not be disappointed.
The opinions expressed in this post are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Tacticon Armament.
