The list below is a list of optics we have found to be reliable and durable with a low failure rate. Purchasing one of the options below has the highest likelihood of providing the end user with a long service life of reliable operation. It is important to understand that every manufacturer has a failure rate and issues but optics on the list below have shown to have extremely low failure rates.
We have also noted next to them the parent footprint each optic uses to help you identify which mounting pattern each optic utilizes. As we continue to test more optics in the future and collect more data we will modify the list to reflect new reliable options in the market place.
Trijicon - Made in the USA
RMR Type 2 - RMR footprint
RMR HD - RMR footprint
RCR - RMR footprint
RMRcc - Proprietary footprint
SRO - RMR footprint
Holosun - Made in China
407A3 - RMR footprint (PSA Exclusive)
407C - RMR footprint
407K - Modified RMSc footprint
507C - RMR footprint
507K - Modified RMSc footprint
507 Comp - RMR footprint
509T - Proprietary footprint
EPS & EPS Carry - Modified RMSc footprint
Aimpoint - Made in Sweden
Acro P2 - Acro footprint
Steiner - Made in Germany
MPS - Acro footprint
Vortex - Made in China and the Philippines
Defender CCW - Modified RMSc footprint
Defender ST - Modified Deltapoint Pro footprint
Defender XL - Modified Deltapoint Pro footprint
Compdot - Modified Deltapoint Pro footprint
SIG Sauer - Assembled in the USA
Romeo X Compact - RMSc footprint
Romeo X Compact Enclosed - RMSc footprint
-Updated 2/27/2025
Things we look for in an optic to even have a possibility of making the list are as follows:
Reticle that is clear and has a high enough intensity adjustment to be used on bright sunny days
Robust windage & elevation adjustment mechanisms that retain their settings
Acceptable battery life capable of 1 year+ of constant-on operation at useable brightness levels
Acceptable lens distortion and tint
Retains zero and electronic settings under recoil and hard use