Combat optics something else to consider
I’m so old that I can tell you about the day I was on a firing line and saw my first Trijicon ACOG. The first time I saw it I thought it was some kind of toy. The bright neon strand stood out that I just couldn’t understand why a combat optic was so visible. I guess I read too many sniper stories where optics gave away a snipers position due to sun glare, and it was always something I thought about even when hunting. I’ve spotted other hunters before just by see that split second flash from the tree line and I can completely understand how patience can be the key to winning a sniper battle.
Trijicon optics are a tool for modern day fighting, I still prefer the Eotech combat sights for close up fighting, but the battery issue is a big problem for longer operations. Trijicon rifle scopes have become more diversified and aren’t just meant for being mounted on an A2 carry handle anymore. There are red dot and close up fighting optics and reticles now and the accupoint rifle scopes are very practical for hunting. One thing to seriously consider for combat optics is along with giving you pin point accuracy, the objective lenses that are showing up on standard issue rifles these days make it real hard to hide in shadows. If you put a flashlight and optic on your gun, those two tools can be a dead giveaway in even the lowest light. I strongly recommend putting a kill flash or removeable scope cover, flip up covers are fine.
Every time I get asked a question about which firearm or accessory someone needs I follow up with the question “For what?” I have seen plenty of well trained concealed carry owners walk around with a 5 shot j-frame and none of them feel under gunned. The reality is that in some nightmare situation, you’ll never be full prepared, and sometimes we just have to be practical when we are CCW every day. For most practical purposes, I’d recommend keeping a spare magazine in your gun safe in your home, or keep one in your car if you don’t think you can comfortable carry a backup. When most of us are out and about, the ammunition you have on you is all you’re going to be able to fight with, but keeping something near your car and easily accessible in your home is a good idea.