When it comes to red dot sights, Aimpoint reigns supreme. But with two popular options like the Aimpoint ACO vs PRO, choosing the right one can be a challenge. This comprehensive comparison dives deep into their features, applications, and value to help you make an informed decision.
About Aimpoint ACO red dot sight
The Aimpoint ACO is a red dot sight known for its lightweight design, long battery life, and clear 2 MOA red dot reticle. It’s a popular choice for target shooting, hunting, and home defense, appealing to both civilian and professional users.
Features:
- Lightweight: With its polymer housing, the ACO weighs only 10.6 ounces, making it comfortable for extended use.
- Long Battery Life: A single DL1/3N battery provides up to 1 year of constant-on use.
- Clear Reticle: The 2 MOA red dot reticle offers a precise aiming point without obscuring the target.
- Waterproof: The ACO is IPX7 waterproof, meaning it can withstand submersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
- Quick Detach Mount: The included QD mount allows for quick and easy installation and removal from your firearm.
- Night Vision Compatibility: While not offering dedicated night vision settings, the ACO’s low-light brightness setting allows for use with night vision devices in limited light conditions.
About Aimpoint PRO red dot sight
The Aimpoint PRO red dot sight is a popular choice among both civilian and professional shooters alike. It is known for its ruggedness, reliability, and ease of use.
Features:
- 2 MOA red dot reticle: The 2 MOA red dot is ideal for fast target acquisition and is accurate for both close-quarters and longer-range shooting.
- Long battery life: The Aimpoint PRO boasts a 3-year battery life on a single AA battery, making it one of the most energy-efficient red dot sights on the market.
- Night vision compatible: The Aimpoint PRO has 4 night vision compatible settings, making it a great choice for low-light shooting.
- Durable construction: The Aimpoint PRO is built to withstand the harshest conditions. It is water-resistant, shockproof, and fogproof.
- Easy to use: The Aimpoint PRO is designed to be simple to use, with large buttons and a straightforward interface.
- QD (Quick Detach) mount: The Aimpoint PRO comes with a QD mount that allows you to quickly and easily remove the sight from your firearm.
Quick Aimpoint ACO vs Aimpoint PRO comparison table
| Feature | Aimpoint ACO | Aimpoint PRO |
|---|---|---|
| Optical System | Red Dot Reflex Sight | Red Dot Reflex Sight |
| Magnification | 1x | 1x |
| Reticle | 2 MOA dot | 2 MOA dot |
| Brightness Settings | 10 settings (including NV) | 4 NVD settings, 6 daylight settings |
| Battery Life | Up to 10,000 hours (1 CR2032) | Up to 30,000 hours (1 DL1/3N) |
| Mounting | Integral Picatinny mount | QRP2 mount |
| Additional Features | Fixed height mount | Enhanced lens covers, modular mount |
| Waterproof | Yes, submersible to 15 feet | Yes, submersible to 150 feet |
| Weight | Approx. 7.8 oz (with mount) | Approx. 11.6 oz (with mount) |
| Length | 5.1 inches | 5.1 inches |
| Material | High-strength aluminum | High-strength aluminum |
| Night Vision Compatibility | Yes | Yes |
Aimpoint ACO vs Aimpoint PRO Comparison
Magnification and Reticle
Both ACO and PRO boast a fixed 1x magnification, ideal for fast target acquisition and situational awareness. They also share the same 2 MOA red dot reticle, providing a perfect balance of precision and speed.
Housing and Dimensions
The ACO boasts a lightweight and compact polymer housing, making it perfect for weight-conscious users. In contrast, the PRO features a more robust and durable aluminum housing, catering to military and law enforcement professionals.
Battery Life and Illumination
The ACO boasts a respectable 1-year battery life with a low-light brightness setting. The PRO takes things up a notch with a 3-year battery life and actual night-vision compatibility, making it a better choice for low-light situations.
Mounting Options
Both sights offer QD (quick detach) mount compatibility, allowing for quick and easy installation. However, the PRO’s mount is known for its superior return-to-zero capabilities, ensuring consistent accuracy after reattachment.
Durability and Water Resistance
The PRO’s rugged aluminum housing and IPX7 waterproof rating make it the clear winner in this category. It’s built to withstand even the harshest conditions, ensuring reliable performance in any environment.
Applications and Intended Use
The ACO’s lightweight design and civilian-friendly features make it ideal for target shooting, hunting, and home defense. The PRO’s superior durability and night-vision compatibility make it a favorite among military and law enforcement personnel.
Price and Value
The ACO comes in at a more budget-friendly price point, making it a great option for value-conscious users. However, the PRO’s superior durability, night-vision capabilities, and return-to-zero mount justify its slightly higher price tag for demanding users.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Aimpoint ACO vs PRO ultimately depends on your individual needs and budget. If you prioritize weight and affordability, the ACO is a solid choice. However, if you value durability, night-vision compatibility, and superior mounting, the PRO is the clear winner.
Last Updated on December 6, 2023 by Cecil B. DeMille
Cecil B. DeMille is a SF weapons sergeant ( E-5 or above) with a military occupational specialty (MOS) code 18B who specializes in all weapons used in in U.S. Army Special Forces (SF).
