Aimpoint ACO vs PRO – Take Your Pick

Aimpoint ACO was launched in October 2014. In the meantime, Aimpoint has successfully made name for itself. Along with Eotech, this Swedish optic company is considered one of the outstanding manufacturers of the reflex sights across the globe. Aimpoint red dot sights come handy especially for the law enforcement personnel as well as recreational shooters. Products like Aimpoint PRO are especially manufactured for the patrolling officers. They use the product on a daily basis. Aimpoint Carbine Optic or ACO was announced to build further the reputations that the brand has established over the years with their excellent products at affordable rates.

Those who have tested PRO before would know how impressively it performs. If you are familiar with Aimpoint's products, you will have absolutely no difficulty in recognizing the similarity in design between ACO and PRO. However, there are certain bells and whistles in PRO that ACO lacks. Nonetheless, it is no less a performer than its predecessor. A lot of the shooters prefer Eotech. But before you compare Eotech and Aimpoint, test the sights. Do not simply rely on the reviews available. As a reviewer I can provide you my viewpoint but as a user you must test the product yourself.

The Differences

However, let's begin with the design. So how does ACO look from the outside? Outwardly it is quite similar to PRO. But its features differ slightly from PRO. The estimated battery life for ACO is 10,000 hours (a little over a year). In comparison to other Aimpoint red dot sights this might seem a little less. PRO comes with an estimated battery life of 30,000 hours (over three years).

Here are some other differences between the two:

• ACO is not night-vision-compatible while the PRO is.

• ACO is fully waterproof while PRO is submersible to 45 meters.

• ACO does not include flip-up lens covers while PRO does.

• ACO has a minimalist Picatinny mount that is not adjustable for height. PRO's QRP2 Picatinny mount is quite larger and is capable of using risers, and features a large tightening knob. But it is not height adjustable.

The Similarities

If you can keep these differences aside, there are several similarities between these two Aimpoint red dot sights. Both these sights use 30mm tubes, project 2 MOA dots, and have 38mm objective lenses. They possess 3V Lithium 2L76 or DL1/3N battery. Their weight is below 8 ounces without mounts. As far as the elevation and windage are concerned, these are adjustable in ½-MOA clicks with the appropriate dials.

While PRO has fulfilled its purpose, it is time for ACO to do the same. The premium quality glass and its wide viewing angle provide a clear and unobstructed view of the image. In addition, the 2 MOA dot is just perfect when it comes to shoot at targets even at 300 yards.

Final Words

Owning a night vision device is important. However, if you are planning to save some money and still own a reliable and performer red dot sight then Aimpoint ACO will definitely prove worthwhile.