It's a compact and compelling package for the .308 battle rifle, but it will provide PID and accuracy to any bigger and smaller caliber platforms. And we have one right here. We'll be putting it through it's paces in the coming weeks.
The 3-18 is a fine, environmentally hardened long range optic to begin with. With a T-1, the system is incredibly flexible. That secondary optic will not only help engage targets up close, but that 2 MOA dot will help get the rifle on distant targets quickly. The Mark 6 in this DAGR configuration has a Horus TReMor2 milling reticle in the front focal plane.
The new version of the Mark 6 3-18x44mm made for the DAGR configuration is identified by it's M5C2 suffix.. The original model carries a M5B2 suffix.
It's the same 34mm tubed Mark 6, but with a lowered, zero-stop elevation turret and reversed focus knob. The turret was lowered so the T-1 could be mounted as close to the main optic's boreline as possible, reducing the amount you have to move your eye to get between the two optics and the time it takes to transition between them. Leupold tells me the low turret (M5C2) version of the Mark 6 will not replace the original (M5B2) version with the pinch-to-turn dial and quick set scale, but will be sold along side it as a second option when it is released in 2013. We'll have more for you soon, in the meantime here's Leupold's press release:
Leupold is pleased to introduce the next generation in long-range and close-quarter hybrid battlefield optics with the Dual Aperture Gunsight Riflescope (DAGR™), the next generation of integrated optical aiming systems for modern small arms.
Leupold's DAGR System integrates the cutting-edge Leupold Mark 6™ 3-18x44mm riflescope with the CQB-proven Aimpoint® Micro T-1. American warfighters can go from 1x to 18x in a fraction of a second with this system. With an overall length of less than 12 inches and weighing just 34.2 ounces, the Leupold ECOS-O solution delivers an incredible field of view and rapid target acquisition at an unmatched length and weight.
"Combat troops have traditionally had to choose long-range accuracy or close-quarter speed when selecting optics," said Chris Estadt, director of military business development for Leupold & Stevens, Inc. "Leupold's DAGR System has responded with a shorter, lighter, and faster optical system with unprecedented magnification range in a compact size."
In order to increase the combat effectiveness, Leupold engineering redesigned the elevation turret to reduce the centerline distance between the two optics to 1¾ of an inch. This greatly increases the speed of target acquisition for CQB engagements. The DAGR System was recently submitted as the solution for the Miniature Day/Night Sight Enhanced Combat Optical Sight – Optimized (MDNS ECOS-O) government request for proposal. This system will be available for consumers in 2013.
Built in Leupold's Beaverton, Ore, facility, the ECOS-O is the latest in the company's proud military history. Currently, more long-range Leupold tactical optics are in service with the U.S. military than any other brand. Aimpoint has been delivering red dot sights to the U.S. Army since 1997.
The foundation of the DAGR is the Mark 6 3-18x44mm, which offers a specialized short zero lock 0.1 mil adjustment dial with pop up revolution indicator and an easy-to-adjust ocular housing power magnification adjustment. The system includes a Berry Compliant carrying case, Leupold's Mark 6 Integrated Mounting System and Sight mount.
