EOTech Vudu 1-8 and LPVO vs Red Dot and Magnifier

[@Numbtoitall]

This might be the best answer to the LPVO v. Red dot + magnifier debate. The reasoning is very sound and it gives a very practical solution

[@Mikey5-O]

In my opinion an LPVO has more pros than cons compared to a red dot & magnifier. It’s more cost effective than the red dot and magnifier, it’s lighter than a red dot and magnifier and you’re better off having one piece of equipment than two functionality wise.

[@MaverickHeloPilot]

@@Mikey5-O it really depends on what your kit consists of. I typically prefer prismatic optics with etched reticles, it's nice to always have your reticle available despite illumination, but in some instances a holographic or reflex sight is what works best depending on what you are using it for. I had been holding off on switching my EoTech EXPS3-4 w/Sig Juliet 4x magnifier for awhile now because a large portion of my kit and range time is configured for shooting w/ NODs, we had a 1-6 FFP EoTech Vudu with the SR-1 reticle show up at the FFL I manage today and I said "what the hell, why not give it a shot", I'm going to see if it's usable on my "do everything" rifle that I use for night shooting (Hk93 clone built by Parabellum Combat Systems), and see if I can even slightly practically use my NODs with it (Nivisys Gen 3 ANVIS-6s), but I'm not holding my breath.

[@bengullickson4696]

Love the content! I’d love to see more beginner to intermediate training techniques for returning the gun to target quickly and transitioning from weapon to weapon!

[@mtiger5]

I got my 1-8 vudu from PA for 799$ and paired it with a condition one and Eflx 35 degree offset. Been running it on a 14.5” and couldn’t be happier with results from it. Solid option, especially if you can find it on sale . I agree the 1-10 is way too much power for what you actually need 1-6/1-8x are perfectly suitable for the ar platform in 5.56 the weight of the magnifier and shitty eye box is what drove my decision

[@bigearn8782]

Thank you for bringing me back to my senses that I lost somewhere along the way of wanting more, MOre, MORE....and not really being my shooting distance and style. Now, back down to the EXPS3-4 w/G33 (HHS-1) thinking.

[@WALLHUGGERR93]

Would love to see a more organized Playlist of all the drills you guys can think of along with some time standards from your buddy's so we have some times to compare ourselves with.

[@jimmybrodriguez]

We’re working on it

[@joshuareed3999]

How do you only have 23k subs? You always provide great content! I, for one, am grateful for your videos! Thanks so much brother. 👊

[@hawkins71]

I mainly run red dots on my rifles but I do have one equipped with a LPVO. One day I want to take a class to learn how to get the most out of it…

[@eatsshootsandleavestactica8068]

I think there are a lot of people out there that can benefit from having your discussion of whether an LPVO is right for you clipped out into its own video that is easier to find when you search for it. I know I appreciated it a lot and shared it with multiple friends, but I never would have found it if I didn't already follow you and listen to your reviews all the way through while I was working. I wouldn't have guessed it was buried in this 20 minute (awesome, mind you), LPVO review.

[@kevinkimbrell3023]

Keep the gear reviews and opinions coming but mostly I just enjoy the range vids with the drills , and the bros out there putting in reps we love to see it sir 🤙🏻🤙🏻

[@MichaelTaylor-p4y]

Love the communication style. Lots of practical knowledge.

[@normwilson117]

One hand shooting while strong hand, or “other strong hand”, is otherwise occupied; thx in advance; grateful for what you guys are doing

[@DJG37S]

Jim made some good points, eotech vudu 1x8 is a great option for basic training, etc, but for a 3 gunner, and a rifle competition shooter like myself, I still prefer the 1x6 Vortex Razor. This is because in gun matches the max distance you might shoot is up to about 500 yards and a 6 power scope will easily get the job done. The reason why I also prefer the the vortex razor is the glass clarity, I feel like Vortex, nightforce, trijicon all have better glass clarity especially on max power. My 6 year old vortex Razor 1x6 got me 7th overall in the 2020 Texas 3 gun championship.

[@jarrettm3728]

I am between the vcog and Vudu

[@aventador832]

@@jarrettm3728 ive got both. I prefer the horseshoe reticle in the vcog but it is considerably heavier than the vudu. I'm looking into selling both and getting the ATACR 1-8.

[@KaneGregory]

All the money I spent on Razor and Eotech wasted the best scope for me has still been the Trijicon accupoint 1-6 with the simple triangle post it’s fast and with practice you can hold for wind I thought I needed the first focal plane you don’t the second is best for 556!🤯🔫🧨

[@chanc9737]

I'm seeing your comments on other shit, I'm debating the trijicon now...its for my 16" bad bitch end times Rifle... the no battery is a huge plus..

[@free2chasehappy]

@@chanc9737 my friend has the Trijicon accupoint and swears by it! And he ran just about every brands other than the highest end stuff.

[@smbeezy]

Well that’s exactly what happened to me. Spent 1500$ on a LPVO and used it a couple times at the range. I put a rmr on a 45 degree mount and caught myself turning the gun using the rmr the whole time during practice. Needless to say, that MK18 has been sleeping in the safe for over a year now because I just take my 11.5 with an eotech exps out to train now. I refuse to sell the LPVO tho. The setup looks nasty 😂😂

[@MrJbedo]

Same I have a 14.5 with lpvo and love to shoot distance with it. But for general range shenanigans I'll use my mk 18. But if I ever need a long range option my 14.5 is there. Still wanna build a 11.5 but gonna wait for the new daniel defense rails to drop

[@tmfilms4521]

I love any and all range day content. Excellent knowledge transfers with a lot of great training ideas and fun to watch in general.

[@mexicangator]

So fortunate I have an outside range with 2 100 yard bays, 500 yard bay, 1000 yard, and 2000 yard; shout at to JTAC Ranch Mulberry FL

[@iHipHopVEVO]

Solid advice! I’ve been collecting firearms the past 2 years with no investment in actual training. Now I’m looking into “pimping”out the solid firearms I have into specific roles, and I’ve been looking into lpvo but you brought up a good point, Where I live I don’t need long distance scopes :/ Maybe it’s the cool factor or like you also said “just in case”😂 But than I need to train , Solid video! Subbed

[@Tobes-88]

2 gun drills with rifle and pistol, gear set up videos, drills to improve speed on holster draw, follow up shots, recoil management

[@bunnyoperator]

100% agree, Jimmy. Especially the objective discussion and lesson at the end. We really need to be realistic with what we're doing. The tech for 1-10 isn't quite there yet as it sacrifices the min and/or max to have that mag range, as you alluded to. Another thing that folks don't consider are the mount heights and consistent cheek welds in different positions for their body types. That selection can greatly affect how the optic performs.

[@ruthlessreviews1283]

This was a good discussion on looking at a realistic use case to choose between a red dot and magnifier vs LPVO. I agree with a lot of what you said. LPVO’s shine when shooting at extended ranges, out to the effective range of 5.56. But if your primary engagement distance is 200 yards or less, the LPVO really isn’t necessary, and you can always add a magnifier if you need some extra magnification

[@chatnasty]

I have been running a red dot with a Vortex Micro 3x to get a good baseline comparison between it and a 1-6x LPVO. For me the magnifier just makes the flaring of the red dot worse due to my astigmatism. I actually shoot better groups at 50yds with just the red dot vs the dot/magnifier. But the magnifier helps me get more consistent hits at 100-200yds vs the bare dot. That's not the case when using an LPVO since the astigmatism is not as detrimental. I still prefer a quality LPVO over a dot/magnifier. But I see the advantages and drawbacks to both. Also, I've never used a magnifier behind an Eotech to see how that combo does with my astigmatism.

[@chatnasty]

Many people also fail to understand that you do indeed have to zero your magnifier. They try to cheat and use the magnifier to zero the dot. But from my experience it's best to zero the dot, get the magnifier close to center, then shoot a group to confirm or make adjustments. Also #forthealgorerhythm

[@brandonwhite224]

Appreciate the balanced perspective.

[@bdkbdk8005]

Solid video, for someone just getting into ARs. Thanks for the content.

[@aaronyojimbo1753]

Good points about realistic expectations. Thanks.

[@benhead2231]

Good informational video on the LPVO or RDS+Mag. I use an LPVO as it provides a better aiming point with my eyesight. I also use my LPVO for hunting (3-400yds). Content wise, I like the Average Joe monthly “challenge”. Training content is always good, firearms or otherwise. Also would like to see more product reviews. Would like to see a formal review of the Accufire 1-8 and Brownells MPO 1-8(IDK if Big Tex would approve).

[@haolll]

Great video. Would definitely like to see the Average Joe's edc's and dressing around your edc.

[@andrewclodfelter3782]

The vortex razor 1-6 is better glass than the 1-10. No doubt about it.

[@ARID-APACHE]

I got the vudu with a h2 on top with badger mount. Awesome setup

[@mattsterpiecenjmaflva9956]

Love your vids, bro. Always great stuff 👊🏻

[@SLFYSH]

I hear you regarding the red dot being the preferable solution for most. My objection is 2032 battery dependence despite greatly improved battery life for most. Aimpoint M5S would my pick for that....but way spendy. Some can't do dots due to stigmatism, and many weren't/aren't aware until they try and see a big blob irregular dot. It's not a solution for all.

[@charliestoybox2099]

I agree with you on the Eotech and magnifier combo. Works great at distance for me. However nowadays, I keep thinking about what happens when we can’t get batteries anymore? I’m moving back towards etched reticles like acogs and optics with illuminated reticles. Rarely is the illumination so battery dying isn’t much of a worry for me.

[@KamalasVACANTwomb]

Holosun also has optics with solar panel. But I agree. Hate having to count on a battery.

[@justatool8198]

LPVO's are great for Recce Rifles. Lets be honest if were talking about a bad situation. That's the way to go imo

[@brandonevans9521]

Appreciate the words of wisdom, keep up the great work!

[@brianschutzman5823]

Would love an average joes discord or forum where local Dallas area shooters can meet up and practice together.

[@lucasholbrook9433]

The unfortunate part about the magnifiers is that the eye relief is absolutely awwwwwwfullll. At least on the g45

[@timothycooper8548]

Amazing points made in this review, all around. 99% of the general public who shoot recreationally or prepare for home defense, would be just fine with a red dot or holographic sight.

[@richardloos9990]

Good presentation, love to see more. What's the scope mount in the video?

[@eligonsalez5439]

BIG QUESTION HERE: Can you do a video on how you schedule your ideal range days and how you should set a schedule for the more busy of us. Thanks for all of these videos!!

[@shhhboss3139]

Kings of Leon vastly underrated tbh

[@jimmybrodriguez]

Big facts

[@geerts016]

I’d like to see some details about body positions while on barricades/vehicles.

[@possum__puncher]

We want more Taylor

[@6spdkeg]

Thanks for the review. From using your info and others, as a new shooter that doesn't hunt big game and don't know if I'll get into distance shooting, I went with a Trijicon MROHD 3x magnifier with a SIG Romeo 4T with 1moa ballistic circle quadplex plex reticle. At 3x, I can use the info on the retical for 300 yards which is about all I'd want to shoot my 10.5" 300blkout build anyways. $840 combo from optics planet. For home defense and where I'll be shooting the most, 3x will be enough. The Trijicon hd 3x is super clear and the eye relief is at least 3.5". Pretty user friendly IMO.

[@jinglinwu4521]

What glasses frame are you running?

[@rebelpatriot_nc_9156]

For most places around where I live an EOTech with a magnifier would be more than enough. Currently running a Holosun red dot. It's not great, but I have the 50-200 dialed in and I can hit a human-size steel torso consistently while standing. Granted, I have to take a second or 2 to make sure I get my hit. So a red dot is definitely doable for long-ish engagements.

[@HK-wq1ei]

More shooting! drills, shooting and moving, range footage, that's personally what I'd love to see.

[@Nowhiscar]

I’ve used the Razor 1-6, the Vudu 1-6 with the dumb circle and this 1-8. This, by far, is my favorite. Almost on par in brightness with the razor (more than daylight bright all day) and almost the same BDC; but in 8x and better looking IMO. Showed up these ultra long range dudes shootin 400m steel…with me Just shooting off a block of wood. The whole 2 reviews of this optic I found on KZbin don’t do it justice. If you like a second focal plane optic because you hate hunting for an invisible center dot at 1x, (as with a lot of FFP options) then buy the Vudu 1-8!

[@tyronejackson6593]

I think some of this discussion could be based on your location and use for that weapon. If you are a competition guy, shoot at a range all the time, live in an urban area then red dot/magnifier may be a better option. Shorter barrel length may be as well. I live in a small town in the sparsely populated mountains. We shoot and hunt in the national forest. So guys out here like more magnification and longer barrels for more velocity. But here in Oregon we hunt past 500 yards so our experience is much different as well.

[@TonyCOBHC666]

Opinions on the vudu as a SHTF/duty optic?

[@IL_Bgentyl]

Now the real issue is those of us that learned and have always shot iron sights. You typically hit targets around 150-300 but you still can land on 500. Something like a acog 3.5x makes landing at 500 cake. Being practical though I barely ever move and shoot anymore so the perks of a red dot being second nature really doesn’t do much for me. Now for a lpvo it’s harder for me to just have the sight picture because I haven’t trained on them much other than hunting. So for me my perspective is a lpvo is the better option due to a wider effective range/use. Red dots and such are more for fun but practical for the typical shooter. There really isn’t a perfect option.

[@jshobe393]

Night vision content, especially with 9 banger

[@mattschilling1755]

Great video! Lots of usable information. I’m looking for a scope for a 30-30 lever action to hunt with and use at the range (100 yds). Any recommendations? Thanks, Matt S.

[@robertalford1321]

Great video, and I agree in regards to red dot vs LPVO being the latest fad. I bought the hype, and a Primary Arms Raptor 1-6 when it came out, and I never shoot with it bc I hate it. I much prefer the idea of a 3X or 5X magnifier behind an Eotech for the distances I'm shooting.

[@jonnyt16]

Yep. I sold my Trijicon 1-6 and now run an Eotech with their 3X magnifier behind it on a few of my rigs. I also have an 18" barreled Noveske with an actual scope on it if I really need to hit at some good distance. So...an LPVO just didn't make sense to me anymore.

[@Havoc813]

This video does make one question their setup. I run a 10.5 with an LPVO (1-6) & an offset RDS. It works for me but the range I use most is 50 yards and in….

[@blackbushido]

Hello. EXCELLENT and very informative video!!! I was looking at getting a LPVO, but I was struggling with the desire an knowing that I want a red dot for CQC/CQB/HD, but you most definitely cleared it up. I also believed that a red dot was the very best idea and route to take. Thank you very very much!! Besides, I have a 12.5 and I’m understanding that most red dots will work best with that length and under?? Thank you and thank you for your timely response

[@2amichaelj]

Honestly, I spent my own money on a bunch of LPVOs that all are basically the same. Trijicon Credo HX 1-6 SSP, Delta Stryker HD 1-6, Vortex Razor HD Gen 2-E 1-6, Vortex Viper PST Gen 2 1-6, Trijicon TR25 mil dot and now the Eotech Vudu 1-8 and they all generally perform the same. Yeah glass is better on some but all these reticles are almost the same and they perform the same. Weight, eye box at max magnification, and glass clarity (Philippines vs Japanese... Viper PST is the only Philippines glass mentioned, the rest are Japanese) are the only real things to consider if you pick the reticles I did. Don't let these KZbinrs fool you. Your Viper PST isn't limiting you vs Razor or Vudu. My MOA is the same. Shooting off VTAC are generally the same. There's little to no difference between them. At least the particular LPVOs I bought.

[@daltonfury_]

which 1x optic do you find works best with your astigmatism? great content and I appreciate the honesty!!

[@jimmybrodriguez]

Eotech and other holographic sights. Aimpoints aren’t bad either but it really varies from person to person

[@josebaca3075]

Support side shooting one handed accurately.

[@AJL15N]

Can we get a video on chest rigs and setups?

[@mike-oh7pz]

Are there any DD or LRWC guns that have that same bronze color as your mount? That color and finish is so nice. The only thing I seen close was a CMMG banshee but I dont want one of those.

[@axegekko6477]

Any beginner-intermediate training tips always needed. Also how do you go about tuning a AR for running suppressed. (what parts do you go to change first? buffer, spring, charging handle, gas block etc What are you looking at throughout tuning process? )

[@aventador832]

If you want to only run suppressed go to black river tactical and get the correct gas tube for Suppressed only shooting. Check out trajectory arms, they have great info on dedicated suppressed.

[@smbeezy]

Great review video also 👍🏼

[@rexthekiller6822]

Can we get a comms setup video for civilians like how you set it up for your gear or how other average joes set theirs up

[@davidhenn3452]

gear info. would like to know more about the comms setup you use, ptt, cables, radio etc. thanks!

[@REMYSCH]

Great review

[@russream3732]

Eotech Vudu 1-8x is a SFP scope but the Eotech Vudu 1-10x is FFP. Why isn’t the 1-8x a FFP scope? Thank you for the education.

[@Crittek]

What magnification were you using on the magnifier to hit that steel? I’m in between using a 4x or a 5x.

[@calvins4084]

I'm wanting to buy vudu 1-8 or vortex razor.. Which one would you recommend?

[@caseymccormack2000]

Late getting in.. I still don't know which is best so I have both. I have a Primary Arms 1X6 SFP and a Holosun 503r. I just ordered a Holosun magnifer to try out with the red dot. Holosun was chosen for price, weight, and eye relief. If it's something I like I may upgrade it later if I feel the need to do so. I like having a red dot. It's lighter and works for 75% of what I do. The magnifier at 3X won't help much but it's better than no magnification for anything over 100 yards. My scope/mount combo is only 22.78 oz but it just feel like so much more.. I do like the LPVO but it's so much faster and comfortable to drive the red dot. We will see if that stays the same with a magnifier added (red dot and magnifier should come in under 17 oz).

[@michaelflentge6484]

Gear Question. Running a radio up front inside a cummerbund, is the practice to just give more slack on that side of cummerbund to allow for the radio with the PC, or is it just a comfort issue and you just deal with it and smash that radio into the ribs? My side plates are not too far forward, but I notice if there’s slack in the cummerbund and there’s no radio thrown into the mix the entire PC kinda slides on its own when I’m moving.

[@lucasholbrook9433]

When using spf scopes do you find yourself actually using a variety of magnifications or do you just go for either 1x or 6x

[@jimmyward2848]

Jim, what the best Magnifier to couple with a Aimpoint T1? Thank You.

[@jkellyid]

I have a eotech g45 and find the eye box on that 5 power so constricting its not useful for anything. Are there any other options with more useable eye boxes at or above 4 power?

[@possum__puncher]

Taylor?

[@davidrobinson4856]

Can you do a video on home defense set up?

[@thegolflife7565]

What is the best platform for a firearms related channel to collect support from viewers?

[@dionysis84]

This eotech vudu 1-8 or the vortex razor gen iie 1-6??? I am torn between those 2 and maybe a trijicon. I just dont like the trijicon reticles but love the idea of the solar & tritium instead of a battery. Love the center red dot reticles with drop down hash marks . The razor gen 3 is my favorite but that is honestly just to much $

[@paulsur5871]

Does the illumination automatically turn off after a perdiod of inactivity?

[@petermiranda65]

I just want to know if this particular scope fares well within 200 yards. I want to use this for hunting whitetail, I dont anticipate taking a shot beyond 200 yards ever. Any one use this for hunting?

[@555Pleiades]

Do you get to keep the optic after review?

[@jimmybrodriguez]

Sometimes

[@gec-o2167]

Well done analysis.

[@zackschmidt4381]

Great video sir

[@e7tegt503]

How is it shooting prone with that fast mount?

[@brianespinoza5875]

So my vision in my right eye is very bad because of an astigmatism . With both eyes open through my eotech it’s no problem but when I get out past 100 I find myself needing more magnification. Haven’t used a 3x magnifier, I am willing to try it but don’t know how it will work with astigmatism. I try and shoot 2 to 3 times a month and want to be more proficient at distance.

[@juliorodriguez1721]

Need help finding ranges that allow for different type of drills and practice in Pennsylvania

[@drOBcity]

What distance do you zero an lvpo at?

[@jimmybrodriguez]

50 confirm at 200

[@mrrod3004]

Im taking mine back, the glass is clear as can be but you csnt see the reticle is super fuzzy and so small you cant see the drop lines. Getting another razor. I dunno why tf the reticle is so small your forced to turn the illumination on

[@krazychris1390]

I'd like to see more content on dealing with a stressful environment or shooting while under duress, or drills to train for that. For example, just the other day (01/10) while waiting to get into the door at work I see a guy walking towards me, no worries it can be a busy area. Look again and notice a revolver barrel pointed towards the ground from his hands that are by his side as he walks closer. He never raised it at me but I immediately moved backwards 15-20 feet and had 911 on the line. How would some in your group deal with that situation? He ended up just wanting to pawn it but that could have been a much different situation.

[@WearilyMistaken]

I would move as far out of his view as I can while I stage myself to draw as best as possible without drawing his attention.

[@victoe5780]

How is the Vudu 1-8 holding up?

[@leviraydrake]

*Leaving comment to fight the algorithm

[@jimmybrodriguez]

Appreciate you homie

[@AbcDino843]

I've been debating for a while what to put on my AR10. With my aging eyesight, I think I will go with a 4-16 with an offset red dot. If I am going to mount a magnified optic, and inherit the eye relief and exit pupil constraints, I might as well get the magnification that I need. The downside is a bit more weight.

[@ridnthawave708]

@rstx- I’m right there with you. I just bought my first AR 10 and debated up and down of how much mag to go for. I also went the 4-16 route. Boy! Let’s just say, I will not be doing any running and gunning. I have even considered trading it in for a good ffp 2-12, but, can’t seem to find one that checks all the boxes and decreases the weight enough. The rifle will be used differently than my ar 15, so, in the end I’ll probably stay with it.

[@AbcDino843]

@@ridnthawave708 Yeah, I have abandoned running and gunning after I crossed 45, and 230 lbs. I am relegating my self to a more stationary role going forward.

[@ridnthawave708]

Yeah me too. I’m 51. I stay in pretty good shape and could still run and gun if I had to. Just that this rifle is for longer ranges outside of the 556. I’m like you. I’ll be looking for more of a stationary approach going forward. 👍

[@ericshindler5829]

Very interested in this optic. I can pu one for $999. Is this really worth it. I really want to purchase quality. Using this to shoot my ar 556 250 yards.

[@ry3713]

I have an astigmatism too, is it correct that eotech would be better than aimpoint to mitigate this issue?

[@lgdurocher]

For most people but there’s no exact science & some say the opposite. But most with astigmatism do say holo sights work better for them. Also just realize tho the EOTech reticle is designed to look fuzzy if you look directly at it. Focus on your target

[@ry3713]

@@lgdurocher thanks for the reply.

[@jimmybrodriguez]

Yeah what he said lol

[@ry3713]

@@jimmybrodriguez Coming in clutch hahaha

[@Hugh_Jaynus]

Any new ETA for the new triarc rail?

[@jimmybrodriguez]

🤷🏾‍♂️ I’ll let you know if I get my hands on one

[@possum__puncher]

Decent video….. needs more Taylor

[@Dopeboyz909]

What weight recoil spring you running on your Glock?

[@jimmybrodriguez]

I don’t shoot glocks so 🤷🏾‍♂️

[@Dopeboyz909]

@@jimmybrodriguez 😪

[@mdc9518]

We are talking like Eotech’s EXPS3’s are cheap! Add a unity mount, G43 and another unity mount (why won’t Eotech sell the magnifier without their mount so I can save some money!) and you are still looking at $1600. The struggle to hide these expenses from my wife is real!

[@tazoriginal]

How long does the battery last

[@jimmybrodriguez]

Estimated 500 hours

[@carls2210]

Only 2:45 minutes into the video. Will you be getting the 1-10 as well to review?

[@jimmybrodriguez]

Yes I touch on it briefly both the vortex and eotech 1-10s

[@carls2210]

@@jimmybrodriguez yea I should've waited and finished the video. My bad

[@jimmybrodriguez]

Haha all good

[@codyfowler5898]

What height is that scope mount

[@ACGBLR]

It use to be Iron sights to 500 yards. I have heard recruits now get to use the acog. And the target is quite large as well.

[@possum__puncher]

Give us more Taylor

[@eM-ed5pz]

Is it a true 1x?