As an avid hunter and night vision enthusiast, I’ve had the opportunity to test out many optics over the years. But few have impressed me as much as the EOTech XPS3 holographic weapon sight. This compact yet powerful optic has become a go-to for many hunters, competitive shooters, and tactical operators – and for good reason. In this in-depth review, I’ll break down everything you need to know about the XPS3 to decide if it’s the right sight for your needs.
A Brief History of EOTech
Before we dive into the XPS3 specifically, it’s worth taking a quick look at EOTech’s background. The company has been at the forefront of holographic weapon sight technology since the 1990s. EOTech’s journey began in 1995 as a spin-off from the Environmental Research Institute of Michigan (ERIM). Their goal was to apply holographic technology to firearms sights, revolutionizing the optics industry.
EOTech developed their first commercial holographic sight in 1996 and have continued innovating ever since. Over the decades, EOTech has garnered support from military units, law enforcement agencies, and civilian shooters worldwide. Their commitment to quality and innovation has made them a trusted name in the optics industry.
EOTech sights are renowned for their durability and performance in harsh conditions. They’ve been battle-tested by military and law enforcement units around the world, including U.S. Special Operations forces. This real-world experience has allowed EOTech to continually refine and improve their products. When you buy an EOTech sight, you’re not just getting a piece of equipment – you’re benefiting from decades of research, development, and field testing.
The XPS3: EOTech’s Compact Powerhouse
The XPS3 represents the latest evolution in EOTech’s holographic sight technology. It’s designed to offer all the benefits of EOTech’s larger sights in a more compact and versatile package. Let’s dive into the key features that make the XPS3 stand out in the crowded optics market.
Size and Weight: A Compact Contender
One of the XPS3’s most notable features is its compact size. Measuring just 3.8″ x 2.1″ x 2.5″ (96.5 x 53.3 x 64 mm), it’s the shortest holographic sight in EOTech’s lineup. This compact footprint is a game-changer for shooters who need to maximize rail space or prefer a more streamlined setup.
Despite its small size, the XPS3 doesn’t compromise on performance. It offers the same large viewing window and reticle options as EOTech’s larger sights. The compact design is particularly beneficial for shooters using shorter-barreled rifles or those who need space for additional accessories like magnifiers or night vision devices.
Weight is another crucial factor, especially for hunters and competitive shooters who need to minimize every ounce. The XPS3 tips the scales at just 9 ounces (255 g), making it one of the lightest holographic sights on the market. This featherweight design helps maintain weapon balance and reduces fatigue during long shooting sessions or extended hunts.
Battery and Power: Balancing Performance and Longevity
The XPS3 is powered by a single CR123 lithium battery. This transverse-mounted battery configuration is a clever design choice that contributes to the sight’s compact size. The battery compartment is easily accessible, allowing for quick changes in the field without the need for tools.
EOTech claims a battery life of approximately 1,000 continuous hours at nominal setting 12 at room temperature. In real-world use, I’ve found this estimate to be fairly accurate, though actual battery life can vary depending on brightness settings and environmental conditions. While this battery life is respectable, it’s worth noting that it’s shorter than some competing red dot sights. However, the trade-off in battery life comes with the superior performance of the holographic sight technology.
To help conserve battery life, the XPS3 features an auto-shutdown function. When activated using the UP button, the sight will automatically power down after 8 hours. If activated with the DOWN button, it will shut off after 4 hours. This feature helps prevent accidental battery drain if you forget to turn off the sight after use.
Reticle and Brightness: Versatility for Any Situation
The XPS3’s reticle is one of its standout features. It uses a 68 MOA ring with a 1 MOA center dot, a configuration that EOTech calls the “0” reticle. This design offers an excellent balance of speed and precision. The large ring allows for rapid target acquisition at close ranges, while the small center dot enables precise aiming at longer distances.
One of the XPS3’s major advantages is its brightness adjustment range. It offers 20 daylight brightness settings, allowing you to fine-tune the reticle’s intensity to match any lighting condition. Whether you’re shooting in bright sunlight or overcast conditions, you can adjust the XPS3 for optimal visibility.
Night Vision Compatibility: A Game-Changer for Low-Light Operations
Where the XPS3 really shines is in its night vision compatibility. It offers 10 additional brightness settings specifically designed for use with night vision devices. These settings are compatible with Generation I through III+ night vision intensifier tubes, making the XPS3 an incredibly versatile optic for both day and night use.
This night vision compatibility is a significant advantage for hunters who pursue game in low-light conditions or for tactical users who need to maintain 24-hour operational capability. The ability to seamlessly transition from daylight to night vision use without changing optics or re-zeroing is a major selling point of the XPS3.
Durability and Environmental Resistance: Built to Last
EOTech has built a reputation for producing rugged, reliable optics, and the XPS3 is no exception. The sight is constructed with a robust aluminum hood that protects the optics and internal components. This durable construction allows the XPS3 to withstand harsh recoil, impacts, and the general wear and tear of field use.
The XPS3 is also designed to perform in extreme environmental conditions. It’s fogproof and shockproof, ensuring clear sight picture and consistent performance in challenging situations. Additionally, the XPS3 is waterproof to a depth of 33 feet (10 meters). This level of water resistance not only protects against rain and humidity but also allows the sight to continue functioning even if briefly submerged.
Optical Performance: Clarity and Speed
The heart of any sight is its optical performance, and this is where the XPS3 truly excels. The holographic technology used in the XPS3 offers several advantages over traditional red dot sights.
First, the sight picture is incredibly clear. The holographic reticle appears to be projected onto the target plane, reducing eye strain and allowing for more natural focus. This design also eliminates parallax error, ensuring that the point of aim remains consistent regardless of eye position behind the sight.
The XPS3’s large rectangular viewing window provides an excellent field of view. This wide sight picture allows for better situational awareness and faster target acquisition, especially in dynamic shooting scenarios. The anti-reflective coating on the glass reduces glare and improves light transmission, resulting in a clearer, brighter sight picture.
One unique aspect of holographic sights is how they handle magnification. When used with a magnifier, the XPS3’s reticle maintains its apparent size relative to the target. This means that the 1 MOA center dot remains 1 MOA at any magnification, allowing for precise aiming even at extended ranges.
Mounting and Zeroing: User-Friendly Design
The XPS3 is designed to mount easily on any MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny or Weaver rail. It comes with a locking bolt system that provides a secure attachment to the weapon. For those who prefer quick detachment, EOTech offers compatible QD mounts as an accessory.
Zeroing the XPS3 is a straightforward process. The sight features easily accessible windage and elevation adjustment screws, each providing ½ MOA per click. These positive click adjustments allow for precise zeroing without the need for tools. The adjustments are also designed to maintain zero even under harsh recoil or rough handling.
Real-World Performance: From the Range to the Field
Over the past year, I’ve had the opportunity to put the XPS3 through its paces in a variety of shooting scenarios. From the controlled environment of the shooting range to the unpredictable conditions of hunting trips, the XPS3 has consistently impressed me with its performance.
At the range, the XPS3’s speed and accuracy shine. The large field of view and intuitive reticle make it easy to transition between targets quickly. I’ve found that my split times have improved significantly when using the XPS3 compared to traditional iron sights or even other red dot optics. The 1 MOA center dot also allows for precise shot placement at longer ranges. I’ve consistently been able to hit 8-inch plates at 300 yards using just the XPS3, a testament to its accuracy potential.
In hunting scenarios, the XPS3’s versatility really comes into play. The multiple brightness settings allow for optimal reticle visibility in any lighting condition, from the dim light of dawn to bright midday sun. The night vision compatibility has been particularly useful for hog hunting after dark. Being able to use the same optic for both day and night hunting simplifies my setup and ensures consistent performance.
One memorable experience that highlighted the XPS3’s capabilities occurred during a whitetail hunt last fall. As I was scanning a brushy area at the edge of a field, a mature buck suddenly appeared in a small clearing about 75 yards away. Thanks to the XPS3’s wide field of view, I was able to quickly acquire the target and make an ethical shot before the deer disappeared back into the thick cover. The speed of target acquisition and the precise aiming point provided by the XPS3 made all the difference in that fleeting opportunity.
Comparing the XPS3 to the Competition
While the XPS3 is an exceptional optic, it’s important to consider how it stacks up against its competitors. The main rivals to the XPS3 are high-end red dot sights like the Aimpoint Micro T-2 and the Trijicon MRO.
Compared to these red dot sights, the XPS3 offers several advantages. The most notable is the larger field of view provided by the rectangular viewing window. This wider sight picture can be a significant benefit in dynamic shooting scenarios or when engaging multiple targets.
The XPS3’s reticle also sets it apart. The combination of the 68 MOA ring and 1 MOA dot offers both speed and precision that’s hard to match with a simple red dot. The 1 MOA center dot allows for more precise aiming at distance compared to the 2 MOA dots typically found on red dot sights.
Night vision compatibility is another area where the XPS3 shines. While some high-end red dots offer night vision settings, the XPS3’s 10 dedicated night vision brightness levels provide more fine-tuned control for use with various night vision devices.
However, the XPS3 does have a few drawbacks compared to red dot sights. It’s slightly bulkier, which may be a consideration for those prioritizing absolute minimalism. The battery life, while good, doesn’t match the multi-year battery life offered by some red dot sights. The XPS3 is also generally more expensive than comparable red dot sights.
For close to mid-range use, I personally prefer the XPS3 due to its speed of target acquisition and versatile reticle. However, for those prioritizing long battery life or absolute minimum size and weight, a high-end red dot sight might be a better choice.
Is the XPS3 Worth the Investment?
With a price tag around $600, the XPS3 represents a significant investment in your shooting setup. However, in my experience, the performance and durability of the XPS3 justify its cost for serious shooters.
The optical clarity, speed of target acquisition, and versatile reticle make the XPS3 a top performer for close to mid-range shooting. Its rugged construction and waterproof design mean it can withstand the rigors of hard use in challenging environments. For those who need an optic that can transition seamlessly from day to night use, the XPS3’s night vision compatibility adds significant value.
However, it’s important to consider your specific needs and budget. If you’re a casual plinker or only shoot at static targets on a controlled range, the advanced features of the XPS3 might be overkill. In that case, a less expensive red dot sight might serve you just as well.
On the other hand, if you’re a serious hunter, competitive shooter, or someone setting up a defensive firearm, the XPS3’s performance advantages could make a real difference. In high-stress situations where speed and accuracy are critical, the XPS3 truly shines.
Maintenance and Care: Keeping Your XPS3 in Top Shape
To ensure your XPS3 continues to perform at its best, proper maintenance is key. Fortunately, the sight is designed for easy care and maintenance. Here are some tips to keep your XPS3 in top condition:
Cleaning the lenses: Use a soft, clean cloth or lens pen to gently remove dust and debris from the lenses. For tougher smudges, you can use a small amount of lens cleaner or distilled water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the lens coatings.
Checking the mount: Regularly inspect the mount to ensure it’s still securely attached to your rail. Recoil can sometimes cause mounting screws to loosen over time.
Battery maintenance: Remove the battery if you plan to store the sight for an extended period. This prevents potential damage from battery leakage. Also, consider replacing the battery annually, even if it hasn’t died, to ensure reliable performance when you need it most.
Protecting the sight: When not in use, consider using a protective cover to shield the lenses from dust and potential impacts. EOTech offers purpose-built covers for their sights.
Avoiding extreme temperatures: While the XPS3 is designed to operate in a wide temperature range, try to avoid exposing it to extreme heat or cold for prolonged periods when not in use.
With proper care, your XPS3 should provide years of reliable service, making it a long-term investment in your shooting performance.
Final Thoughts: A Versatile Performer for Serious Shooters
After extensive use in various shooting scenarios, I can confidently say that the EOTech XPS3 lives up to its reputation as a premium holographic weapon sight. Its combination of speed, accuracy, and durability make it a top choice for close to mid-range shooting applications.
The XPS3 excels in situations where rapid target acquisition is crucial, making it an excellent choice for hunters dealing with fast-moving game, competitive shooters facing dynamic courses of fire, or defensive scenarios where split-second reactions can make all the difference. The versatile reticle design, with its combination of a large ring for fast acquisition and a precise center dot, offers the best of both worlds in terms of speed and accuracy.
One of the XPS3’s standout features is its night vision compatibility. For hunters or tactical users who need 24-hour capability, the ability to use the same optic in both daylight and low-light conditions with night vision devices is a significant advantage. This versatility eliminates the need for separate day and night optics, simplifying gear setups and ensuring consistent performance across all lighting conditions.
The rugged construction of the XPS3 provides peace of mind in challenging environments. Whether you’re navigating dense brush on a hunting trip, running and gunning in a 3-gun match, or relying on it for more serious applications, the XPS3’s durability ensures it will hold up under pressure.
While the XPS3 does have some drawbacks, such as shorter battery life compared to some red dot sights and a higher price point, these are generally outweighed by its superior performance in critical areas. The speed of target acquisition, precision at longer ranges, and overall versatility make it a worthwhile investment for shooters who demand the best from their equipment.
In conclusion, the EOTech XPS3 is a top-tier optic that offers significant advantages for close to mid-range shooting. Its combination of speed, accuracy, durability, and night vision compatibility make it a versatile performer suitable for a wide range of applications. While it may be overkill for casual range use, for serious shooters who need reliable performance in demanding conditions, the XPS3 is hard to beat.
If you’re in the market for a high-performance holographic sight and can justify the investment, I highly recommend giving the XPS3 a try. It might just revolutionize your shooting experience, as it did mine. Remember, the best gear is the gear that allows you to perform at your best, and in my experience, the EOTech XPS3 certainly fits that bill.
So, what are your thoughts? Have you had experience with the XPS3 or other EOTech sights? How do you think it compares to other optics you’ve used? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below. And if you’re considering purchasing an XPS3, feel free to ask any questions you might have. Happy shooting!