I have to agree. Bottom line is a good set of iron sights and knowing how to properly use them (not to mention a MUCH better field of view over any optic). No dead batteries to contend with or any parts that can fail due to mechanical failure or unintentional abuse.
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Optics beyond iron sights, are nothing more than a luxury for the most part.
I used to think like you, then I got older.
You see I can no longer use the ghost ring and post iron sights on my rifle. My eyes are such that the rear ring is so blurry, I can barely make out the outline of it. For 50 yards and closer, I can hit a man sized target with them. However, for more precision or longer shots, I need some kind of optic.
This is one reason I finally went to the ACOG. It requires no battery and has a little magnification. Using the Binden Aiming Concept (BAC) it has a much broader field of view than you might think.
About expense, Phil and I have gone rounds over this one a few times. Here we go again...
I don't subscribe to the idea that a cheap optic is fine for just plinking. My theory goes like this: I want to have fun while shooting. If my optic is giving me trouble, I'm not having fun. So, spend enough to ensure your optic is going to work for your particular activity.
I've owned cheap optics. I've spent as little as $30. To date, every el-cheapo optic has been a disappointment. They either don't hold zero or quit working altogether. Some are just terrible and aiming because of mediocre glass or reticles. This is truly a case of you don't know until you've OWNED a decent optic.
Now there are cheap optics and there are not so cheap optics. I've had very good service from my Primary Arms Advanced Microdot. It can be had for $170. I would highly recommend this over the TRS-25 even though it's $100 more.
Phil will tell you that mid-range optics are a waste of money. That if you're going to spend mid-range money, just save up for the high end optic. I don't agree. I find the mid-range optics far better than the el-cheapo stuff and yet good enough to put up with some serious use.
I think we all agree, if your life depends on it, second best isn't the right tool. Even so, there is no need to say the absolute top is the only way to go.
An Elcan is probably the best of the battle scopes. They run $2k if you can find a deal. An ACOG is every bit as tough and has every bit as good glass, as far as I can tell, for a lot less. A used ACOG can be found for less than $1K if you look. So, I think you can get a good optic, that will take real punishment, without trading in your car.