270man
02-16-2007, 11:20 PM
All handgunners using optical sights. I use a S&W Model 686 357Mag for handgun hunting and once had a Tasco Optima red dot for the sighting system. The Optima reportedly weighed 1/2 ounce and was small and compact. I loved the looks of it on my 686 - a lot less bulky than either a handgun scope or full-size red dot sight.
The first one would not adjust for windage or elevation and I sent it back to Tasco. The replacement worked fine until I tried to move the zero a couple of inches. The adjustment mechanism failed and I could only hit dirt in front of the 25-yard target. Sent this one back too and Tasco confessed to manufacturing problems and said they were discontinuing the Optima. They treated me well with a choice of replacement optics BUT dang, I really liked the Optima concept. The large Weaver base overpowered (in looks) the Optima and I was looking for a different base when the Optima failed.
That's the background, now for the question: Does anyone know of something similar in size/weight, but with better quality and reliability? The Optima was so small that I could use a standard hip holster without interference. I'm still looking. Any ideas out there?
270man
The first one would not adjust for windage or elevation and I sent it back to Tasco. The replacement worked fine until I tried to move the zero a couple of inches. The adjustment mechanism failed and I could only hit dirt in front of the 25-yard target. Sent this one back too and Tasco confessed to manufacturing problems and said they were discontinuing the Optima. They treated me well with a choice of replacement optics BUT dang, I really liked the Optima concept. The large Weaver base overpowered (in looks) the Optima and I was looking for a different base when the Optima failed.
That's the background, now for the question: Does anyone know of something similar in size/weight, but with better quality and reliability? The Optima was so small that I could use a standard hip holster without interference. I'm still looking. Any ideas out there?
270man