Primary Arms MD-06L w/American Defense AD-T1

I currently own Aimpoint CompML3, Burris Fast Fire, multiple Trijicon reflex, ACOG, RMR. I've shot with many different firearms that have had Aimpoint T1 or H1 optics on them.

I've never really had a need for a T1 'type' optic. But I wanted a small lite QD red dot optic for a AR testing and I didn't feel like shelling out T1 $ for something for 100 yd and under testing.

I've always heard good things about Primary Arms microdots (Aimpoint T1 clone). I've had great service with other Primary Arms purchases. So I decided I'd give them a try with the new MD-06L microdot w/AD-T1 (1/3 co witness w/ PA microdot)

SPEC ($169 delivered for total package)

Angled and Coated front lens to prevent glare
LED emitter at 7:30 position to allow cowitness
Brightness adjustment on the left. Ideal for bench and prone use.
Ultra sharp 3 MOA dot
1,000+ hour battery life at medium setting
Uses 1 CR2032 battery (included)
11 brightness settings
Visible in bright sunlight
Fog resistant
Waterproof
Bikini covers included
Only weighs 4.5 ounces
Front threaded for optional Killflash

Well, this is built MUCH better than I expected. I felt I was going to get a step above Leapers or airsoft type optic. This looks, feels like every Aimpoint T1/H1 I've handled. It is a very solid unit and I'd have no fear of this optic taking abuse and or using wet. (I don't believe I'd go diving with it...) The 3 MOA dot is clear and the 11 brightness settings allow a wide range of backlighting adjustments. The on/off/brightness adjustments knob is very positive and tight. You aren't going to accidentally turn it on. The vertical and windage adjustment caps are gasket sealed (I'd add some light grease for better water protection). They are metal and have a good tight feel to them. The unit come standard (removable) with allen head tightening system and low rail mount. The standard base would be great for a AK or shotgun, 30/30 mounting or offset AR mount for 3 gun. The AD mount (added on to $89 optics cost) is easy to adjust and tight mount for T1 absolute co-witness, but with the Primary Arms microdot it gives you 1/3 co-witness.

CONS:
1000 hrs battery life. Not really and issue and battery is cheap ($2.39 for two so buying 20 packs for $46.00 gives you Aimpoint T1 battery life), but it's not the 50K hours battery life of the Aimpoint T1.
3 MOA dot. Some people want/need 2 MOA or nothing.
Chinese made (your call on this one)
Not NV compatible (ok....if you really need NV you're an operator and you'd be using the T1)

PROS:
Cost, this unit is very cost effective
Durability for the cost
Solid build quality
Customer Service (these guys are great and stand behind their products)
Can add kill flash for $19
Very tight bikini lens cover
Left hand side brightness adjustment so you don't have to take your hand off the trigger to adjust brightness when prone or seated.


I'd have no problem recommending this for the budget conscious AR shooter that wants a micro red dot and is on a budget. Or the guy would has a safe queen and wants a reliable optic for the occasional use and or SHTF situation. It would also be great for the budget minded competitive shooter. Other than it's not Aimpoint T1 (there is a definite difference), I can't say that the average shooter will need the additional benefits of the T1 for the almost $550 additional cost. Other than 2 MOA v 3 MOA and battery life the rest of the differences are really military use in nature.

Well worth the money IMHO (you could get 3 of these for the price of a T1). That being said it's not a T1...close but NOT. So determine if you need the additional military features of the T1 for the additional cost.





@ setting 9 for brightness