When it comes to selecting the perfect optic for your rifle, shotgun, or scope, the choices can be overwhelming. But if you’re serious about elevating your hunting game, look no further than the EOTECH EXPS2 Holographic Weapon Sight. As an avid hunter and night vision gear enthusiast, I’ve had the opportunity to test out countless sights over the years. And I can say with confidence that the EXPS2 stands head and shoulders above the competition. In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive into the features and benefits that make this sight a must-have for any serious hunter.
Compact Design and Durability
One of the first things you’ll notice about the EXPS2 is its incredibly compact size. Measuring just 3.8 inches long, 2.3 inches wide, and 2.9 inches tall, this sight is the epitome of streamlined design. And weighing in at a mere 11.2 ounces with the included CR123A battery, it won’t weigh you down on those long, strenuous hunting expeditions. But don’t let its small stature fool you – the EXPS2 is built to withstand the toughest conditions. It’s waterproof up to 10 feet and can operate in temperatures ranging from a frigid -40°F to a scorching 150°F. I’ve put this sight through its paces on numerous backcountry hunts, exposing it to rain, snow, dust, and debris. And it’s never once let me down. The rugged aluminum hood over the window provides an extra layer of protection, ensuring your sight remains pristine and functional no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.
Unparalleled Optical Clarity
Of course, a sight is only as good as its optical performance. And in this regard, the EXPS2 truly shines. The generous rectangular window provides an expansive field of view, allowing you to keep both eyes open while shooting. This not only enhances your situational awareness but also enables faster target acquisition – a critical advantage when you’re dealing with quick, unpredictable game. The window itself is crafted from solid 1/8-inch glass in the front and 3/16-inch laminate in the rear, offering exceptional clarity and durability. An anti-reflective
coating on the external lens surfaces reduces glare and ensures a crisp sight picture in any lighting conditions.
Intuitive and Precise Reticle
At the heart of the EXPS2 is EOTECH’s signature reticle design. It features a large, 68 MOA ring that encircles a precise 1 MOA red dot in the center. I’ve found this setup to be incredibly intuitive and easy to use, allowing for lightning-fast aiming compared to traditional crosshairs or standalone red dot sights. The ring acts as a quick reference for close-quarters engagements, while the dot offers pinpoint accuracy for longer-range shots. And because the reticle is holographic, it remains clear and sharp even under magnification. With red dot sights, the dot can appear blurry and distorted when magnified. But the EXPS2’s laser-transmitted hologram reticle maintains its crisp 1 MOA dot size no matter what level of magnification you’re using.
Versatile Magnification Options
Speaking of magnification, the EXPS2 pairs perfectly with EOTECH’s G33 and G45 magnifiers. These optional accessories allow you to instantly switch between 1x, 3x, and 5x magnification, depending on your needs. The magnifiers attach securely behind the sight and can be flipped to the side when not in use, keeping your field of view unobstructed. I’ve found this setup to be incredibly versatile, suitable for everything from dense brush to wide-open plains. And because the EXPS2 uses a laser-transmitted hologram instead of an LED like traditional red dot sights, the reticle remains clear and precise even at higher magnifications. It’s a game-changer for those who demand the ability to engage targets at varying distances without sacrificing speed or accuracy.
Customizable Brightness Settings
Another standout feature of the EXPS2 is its customizable brightness settings. With 20 different levels to choose from, you can easily adjust the reticle’s intensity to suit any lighting conditions. The side-mounted buttons allow for quick, easy adjustments without having to change your grip or cheek weld. I’ve found this particularly useful when transitioning from bright sunlight to deep shade in the woods. Instead of struggling with a washed-out or overpowering reticle, I can dial in the perfect setting on the fly, ensuring my aiming point remains visible and precise at all times.
Long-Lasting Battery Life
There’s nothing more frustrating than having your sight die on you in the middle of a hunt. But with the EXPS2, that’s not something you’ll have to worry about. This sight is powered by a single CR123A lithium battery, which provides an impressive 1,000 hours of continuous use at nominal setting 12. Even at the highest brightness settings, you can expect around 600 hours of battery life. For most hunters, that translates to months or even years of regular use before needing a replacement. And if you do find yourself needing to swap out the battery in the field, the EXPS2’s side-loading battery compartment makes the process quick and painless.
Easy Installation and Adjustment
Mounting the EXPS2 on your firearm is a breeze, thanks to its 1-inch Weaver or MIL-STD 1913 rail compatibility. The sight attaches securely with a simple, tool-free clamp system, allowing for quick installation and removal. Windage and elevation adjustments are equally user-friendly, with 0.5 MOA clicks that provide precise, repeatable zeroing. I’ve found the adjustments to be crisp and tactile, with no slop or looseness. And because the EXPS2 uses a holographic reticle, there’s no need for centering like with traditional red dot sights. As long as the dot is visible within the window, you’re good to go.
Field-Tested Performance
Of course, the true test of any sight is how it performs in the field. And I can say without reservation that the EXPS2 has exceeded my expectations on every hunt. The combination of speed, precision, and durability is simply unmatched. I’ve taken this sight on everything from close-quarters turkey hunts to long-range pronghorn expeditions, and it’s never failed to deliver. The wide field of view and intuitive reticle make snap shooting a breeze, while the optional magnifiers allow me to reach out and touch distant targets with confidence. And thanks to the sight’s rugged construction and weatherproof design, I know I can count on it to perform in even the harshest conditions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’re serious about taking your hunting to the next level, the EOTECH EXPS2 Holographic Weapon Sight is an investment you won’t regret. With its compact size, exceptional optical clarity, intuitive reticle, and customizable features, this sight offers everything a serious hunter could ask for. Whether you’re stalking whitetails in dense timber or reaching out across the open prairie for antelope, the EXPS2 has you covered. It’s not the cheapest sight on the market, with a price tag around $600, but in my opinion, it’s worth every penny. After all, can you really put a price on the confidence and capability that comes with knowing your sight won’t let you down when it matters most? If you’re ready to unleash your true hunting potential, give the EOTECH EXPS2 a closer look. Trust me – you won’t be disappointed.