If you are a gun enthusiast, hitting the target is probably your main goal.
Even if you have tons of gun collections, there is no use, especially if you can’t reach the prey. Remember, the accuracy of any gun is affected by the sight you use. That is the reason why you need to have an appropriate holographic weapon sight (HWS).
The EOTech holographic sight is one of the prominent weapons that is being sold in the market. It comes with different models, so this might be confusing, especially if they have similar features. In this article, we will understand which holographic sight works for you best and select between EOTech 512 vs 518.
About EOTech
Since 1995, the company has been manufacturing as well as designing and marketing various electro-optic systems and products such as holographic sight weapons.
It aims to provide people throughout the world with the most advanced weapon accessories for security, law enforcement, defense, hunting, and even for recreational purposes.
Aside from HWS, it also offers thermal vision devices, night vision devices, and tactical lights and lasers. EOTech uses forefront technology to ensure each product is made of high-quality materials to obtain an optimal result. All items are battle-tested too, so it is a good choice for law enforcement markets.
With target speed and accuracy in mind, the sight weapon was introduced for hunting and sport shooting. Since then, it has been producing a more modular and compact design for military and law enforcement use.
EOTech 512 Review
If you want an HWS that is cheaper with similar features like the EOTech 518, except that it is without night vision compatibility, you may want to try the EOTech 512.
Pros
- It is cheaper compared to 518
- Water-resistant so it is submersible with a depth of 10 feet
- Comes with 20 brightness settings
- Supports AA batteries whether alkaline, lithium, or rechargeable
- Weighs only 11.5 ounces
- Comes with an EOTech MOA dot reticle and 68 MOA ring
Cons
- Not compatible with night vision
- EOTECH 512.A65 - Holographic Weapon Sight in black with 68 MOA ring & 1 MOA dot reticle
- Mount - Compatible with both 1" Weaver and MIL-STD 1913 Rails
- Adjustable Brightness - The 512 has 20 brightness settings for use in any lighting scenario
- Water Resistant - The 512 is water resistant to 10 feet (3m)
- EOTECH HWS Prestige Warranty - Comes with a 10 year limited warranty
This sight weapon is designed for a recreational and tactical shooter as well as for personal defense. With buttons placed on the rear, you can easily access it, whether you’re left or right-handed shooter. This can be used from dawn to dusk as it has 20 brightness settings, just an ideal choice for competitive shooting and hunting!
The 512 is designed to reach the target with accuracy and reliability. This is a good idea for serious precision shooters as it is constructed and engineered to meet their rough demands. Weighing only 11.5 ounces, you can use this with ease, making it compact wherever you may go.
Not to mention, it is water-resistant too, so you can submerge it with a depth of up to 10 feet. This weapon can certainly be used in different settings, whether wet or dry. Anyway, the multiple brightness setting is to ensure fast adaptability in various shooting situations.
If you use a lithium battery, you can get around 2,500 hours of continuous usage. On the other hand, using an alkaline battery can make you use it around 2,200 hours. You only need AA batteries – whether alkaline, lithium, or rechargeable.
Anyway, this can be mounted with 1” MIL-STD 1913 Rail and Weaver. On AR with EOTech, there is a difference between 1/3 co-witness vs absolute. The EOTech co-witness manifests the alignment of the red dot sights and iron sights. Since the riser mount is 1”, it uses a lower 1/3 co-witness.
EOTech 518 Review
If you want to obtain the features of EOTech EXPS2 and the 512 in one rugged model, you may opt for the 518, although it comes with a more costly price.
Pros
- It comes with a detachable lever
- A good idea for G33 Magnifier with its side button operation
- Water-resistant up to 10 feet
- Has 20 brightness settings
- Can be powered by AA batteries
Cons
- Quite a heavy weighing 13.08 ounces
- Does not have night-vision
- EOTECH 512.A65 - Holographic Weapon Sight in black with 68 MOA ring & 1 MOA dot reticle
- Mount - Compatible with both 1" Weaver and MIL-STD 1913 Rails
- Adjustable Brightness - The 512 has 20 brightness settings for use in any lighting scenario
- Water Resistant - The 512 is water resistant to 10 feet (3m)
- EOTECH HWS Prestige Warranty - Comes with a 10 year limited warranty
This is made to be a tough one so you can use it for a longer time, given its service life. Just like the others, it can be used by AA batteries, so there is no way you will run out of power. Perhaps, the most amazing feature of this model is its compatibility with G33 Magnifier. This will enable you to reach your target, even from behind.
As you can make an EOTech 512 recall, the HWS can reliably and quickly obtain your target. Since it is created to meet the tough demands of gun enthusiasts, especially those who are serious about shooting, it may be a good choice for you. But then, just like the 512, it does not feature night-vision too.
This comes with different brightness settings from dark to bright, so you will be able to use it in various shooting conditions. Even if the sight window is partially covered by mud or snow or partly broken, you will not lose the fight since the HWS can still give you pinpoint accuracy, though reticle appears fuzzy.
That is why until now, EOTech is still trusted by elites in the US. Since the EOTech red dot and ring do not enlarge when magnified, you will be ensured of precision and accuracy at any scope. The EOTech reticle is made to provide multiple trajectory points. Weighing 13.8 ounces, this may not be a compact choice.
EOTech 512 vs 518 – Comparison
Now that you already know the features of each model, let’s compare them according to the following aspects:
- Size and Weight
With a size of 5.6” x 2” x 2.5” and a weight of 11.5 ounces, the 512 is lightweight and compact compared to the 518 with a size of 5.6” x 2.2” x 2.9” and a weight of 13.8 ounces. Although the width, height, and weight make the difference, it is not really dramatic.
However, it is worth noting that smaller width and height can help you to navigate and maneuver different kinds of terrain with ease. On the other hand, if you want long-range shooting capability, you should consider a higher length of the HWS. Although 518 is slightly heavier than 512, this is not really a big deal.
- Design
When it comes to ergonomics, the 512 is not favorable because you cannot make adjustments if you are keeping your eyes on the optics. The good thing is that 518 is made with side button operations.
Why is it a big deal? Having side-mounted controls can allow you to access them even if your eyes are on the optics. So if you already have a nice target, you can make simple adjustments without removing your focus.
- Reticle Options
The 512 only has a single dot, meaning its reticle pattern is only -0. On the other hand, the reticle patterns of the 518 are -0 and -2. Having the -2 reticle pattern provides additional dot that is utilized for long-range shooting, the reason why the 518 features such.
- Brightness and Performance
When it comes to brightness, both models can be adjusted with 20 settings. The 512 and 518 have no night vision capability too. If you want the night-vision feature, then you should opt for EOTech alternatives such as the 552 and 558. Anyway, the lenses are all made of high-quality, so you expect bright images.
- Verdict of Comparison
If you want a lightweight and compact selection, then 512 is a good idea. On the other hand, 518 is a perfect option for long-range shooting. And since the controls are side-mounted, it will be more comfortable for you to use this model.
Depending on your preference and purpose, either choice may work for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is EOTech so expensive?
EOTech products are made of high-quality materials. Plus, they are tested to be tough not only when it comes to recreational purposes but also for the use of law enforcement and the military.
Read this article and get more reflex sight options on a budget.
- Did EOTech fix their problems?
Yes. According to the EOTech 512 review, it does not come with side button operation since it is located in the rear of the optics. This made it hard for users to focus and adjust it at the same time.
But with the 518, the buttons are already mounted at the sides, making it comfortable to adjust them while keeping your eyes to the optics.
- Is EOTech made in the USA?
Yes, EOTech products are designed and manufactured in the USA, with Ann Arbon, Michigan as its headquarter.
- Is EOTech HWS water-resistant?
Yes. All HWS is water-resistant though the depth to which it can be submerged differs, depending on the model.
- What are the benefits of HWS in a close quarter battle?
HWS provides the fastest sight, thereby allowing speed. It maintains your peripheral vision as well as leads to outstanding accuracy, giving you confidence in your shooting ability.
In short, this sight can offer you the ease of use, vision, and speed.
Final Verdict
Hopefully, after you have read through the pages, you already see the difference between EOTech 512 vs 518. Although both HWS are quite similar, each has its pros and cons. Depending on your preference, either option may be good for you. Choose one that can give you the utmost benefits.
