The Ultimate Guide To Weapon Optic And Collimator

Aaron Spuler is a firearms enthusiast and recreational shooter. Follow more or his work at The Weapon Blog

The accuracy of shooting directly depends on the quality of preparation of the weapon and the presence of sight in it. The latter maximizes the chance to make an accurate shot in any environment. There are many types of scopes that military and civilians can use. Among them, optical and collimator models are top-rated.

What are weapon optic and collimator?
Collimators and optical sights are actively used to perform various tasks. These devices have their design features and differ from each other in characteristics. At the same time, both types of optics have many advantages compared to different sights and have a minimum of disadvantages.

An optical sight is a popular device that allows you to conduct aimed shooting far from the target. Such optics have a tubular body, a lens, an eyepiece, and several groups of lenses, which in design resemble an ordinary telescope. Despite this, the optical sight provides high shooting accuracy and allows you to reduce the amount of time required for aiming. This device’s disadvantages are a slight viewing angle at high magnification and inefficiency when shooting from a short distance.

The collimator is an improved version of the standard sight, which provides a light source. Using the energy of batteries, the latter creates a light beam that is projected onto any of the surrounding objects and indicates the place where the bullet hit. Such optics make it possible to aim as quickly as possible and reduce the number of inaccurate shots. In addition, it is often compact and lightweight, which eliminates discomfort while aiming and firing. The only significant drawback of the collimator is its small firing range.

The sphere of weapon optic and collimator scopes application
Optical and collimator sights are widely used in many fields of activity. They help people do different jobs and achieve their goals.
Scope of optics:
• hunting for large animals from a great distance;
• various military operations;
• protection of objects of high secrecy;
• recreational activities (shooting at distant targets).

Scope of collimators:
• hunting from a short distance (mainly for birds and fast-moving animals);
• counter-terrorism operations;
• performance of some military tasks;
• protection of strategically significant objects;
• large game rescue operations (for tranquilizer darts).

Types of weapon optic and collimator sights
Manufacturers of optical and collimator sights produce several varieties of such optics. This makes it possible to choose the most suitable option depending on current needs.

Famous classification of optical sights:
1. With the constant increase. These sights are the most inexpensive and accessible to everyone. They have a specific diversity, which cannot be changed. Small magnification models perform well during close-range shooting and help hit moving targets. Devices with higher magnification are effective at shooting at stationary targets. The approximate distance can be calculated.
2. With variable magnification. Such optics are good because they allow the user to smoothly change the magnification and continuously observe the object of interest. This will enable you to follow even a moving target for a long time and choose the optimal moment for making a shot. Modern models can also determine the distance to the observed object and automatically select the optimal aiming angle.

Famous classification of collimators:
1. Open. Such collimators have the most straightforward design, including one lens and an open light source. This sight feature increases the field of view and improves the accuracy of aiming at the target. At the same time, available collimators suffer from the influence of external factors and perform poorly under adverse weather conditions.
2. Closed. These collimators are sights where the light source is located inside the housing. So it becomes protected from moisture and other contaminants, which maximizes its service life. At the same time, closed collimators cannot boast of a wide field of view and visibility.

How to choose and buy a weapon optic and collimator?
Buying any type of scope is a difficult task. Its main difficulty lies in taking into account many significant characteristics that affect the operation of optics.

Criteria for choosing an optical sight:
1. Multiplicity. The value of this parameter varies widely. It is selected depending on the user’s needs and the purpose of the sight. Civilians often use models 2x-20x, and the military – employs more than 20x.
2. Field of view. The larger the field of view value, the easier it is for the shooter to capture the target and follow it even when moving at high speed. This characteristic is one of the main ones when choosing an optical sight.
3. Strength. The optical sight you buy must withstand the increased impact caused by the recoil of the weapon. This will only be available in the optics body is made of an aluminum alloy.
4. Protection from external influences. The sight must work effectively even in extreme operating conditions. Therefore, it must be sealed and reliably protected from dust. It will not be superfluous to fill the case with nitrogen, which will prevent fogging during sudden temperature changes.

Collimator selection criteria:
1. Type of reticle. The most common is the red dot. The smaller its size, the higher the probability of making an accurate shot. If you need the fastest aiming, you should use models with a large diameter red dot.
2. Power supply. The collimator is distinguished by its light beam, for the creation of which the device needs a power source. Most commonly available models use a standard battery. Its energy is enough for several hundred to tens of thousands of hours of operation. Alternative power options are used exclusively for inexpensive models intended for military use.
3. Backlight intensity. It is necessary to buy collimators, which can adjust the brightness of the aiming point. This will make it possible to change the sight to the existing conditions and make the beam mark more noticeable.
4. Manufacturer. You need to purchase only collimators from well-known manufacturers. They pay special attention to building quality and carefully check their products for compliance with company standards.

Maintenance of weapon optic and collimator scope
Scope of any type will only do its job well if used correctly and maintained with care. The latter is a challenging but doable task.

Features of sight maintenance:
1. Before using the optics, be sure to check them for any defects. Their absence will indicate the excellent condition of the sight and its readiness for operation.
2. After shooting, be sure to inspect the lenses. If fingerprints are on them, remove them with special alcohol-based optics cleaners. Dust and other small particles should be removed with a soft brush or cloth.
3. The body of the device also needs to be cleaned regularly. To do this, use dry napkins or pieces of a soft cloth.
4. Depending on the frequency of use of the sight, select the frequency of maintenance (once every 3-5 weeks). It consists of a thorough check of the device and its constituent elements.

Weapon optic and collimator – F.A.Q.
1. Is it safe to use collimators and optical sights?
Both types of sights do not harm the organs of vision. This makes them safe for the eyes even in case of prolonged use.
2. Is sunlight safe for the scope?
Most of the models sold have UV protection. However, many manufacturers still do not recommend that users point the optics at the sun or other bright light sources.
3. Can the sights last longer than the time stated by the manufacturer?
Yes, any optics will function for a long time in case of proper care and compliance with all operating recommendations. If you make mistakes and use the devices for other purposes, service life will be significantly reduced.
4. Can the scopes be used in all countries of the world?
Each country has its laws governing the import and operation of various optical instruments. Therefore, before you go on a trip, find out if the use of specific device models is legally allowed.
5. Do scopes break often, and can they be repaired?
Most devices are reliable and durable. When used correctly, they rarely break or malfunction. However, in some cases, they still fail. You should entrust the repair to professionals and not do the work yourself in such situations.

How to choose the best weapon optic and collimator, especially for you?
Collimators and optical sights should be selected based on your own experience with these devices. If not, then you should rely on the opinion of professionals. The best option for beginners and experienced users will be a sight from the middle and premium price categories. It is better to avoid cheap models, as problems will begin with them after a few dozen shots. Also, when choosing optics, consider the sharpness of your vision, the quality of components, and the possibility of replacing individual structural elements. In addition, check with the seller about the availability of additional accessories in advance.

Optical and collimator sights are the most helpful addition to any weapon. With their help, it is possible to increase shooting accuracy and minimize the consumption of ammunition. Such sights are widely used by military and civilians. Most of the models used do their job well and help people hit any targets.