The EXPS2 is similar to the traditional square lens design from Eotech. This holographic optic is often compared to the EOTech 512 or 518. The primary difference between the two optics is that the EOTech EXPS2 weighs less and is shorter in length. Despite this, the size of the lens is the same.
There are clear benefits to choosing a smaller optic like the EXPS2. For example, the EOTech EXPS2 will use less rail space. You’ll have room to use iron sights (How to use iron sights on a rifle), magnifiers, or other accessories, including NVD optics. This can come in handy even if you’re using an AR model or another weapon that offers full-length rails.
Just like with other sights from Eotech, the mounting process is simple if you’re working with a firearm that has a Weaver or Picatinny rail. The EXPS2 mounts easily and is quickly aligned.
You’ll find adjustable screws on the sight that you can use for elevation and windage. The screws are on the larger side and are marked clearly, which means you will be able to identify the adjustments that need to be made easily.
Using a lighter optic is beneficial. The EXPS2 is 0.3 ounces lighter than the 512. It’s lighter because the optic is shorter and because it uses one battery instead of the two batteries that the 512 uses.
Of course, there’s a downside to this. The battery life is over 1,000 hours shorter compared to either the 512 or 518 models. Beyond that, it uses a costly CR123 lithium battery, while the 512 uses affordable AA batteries.
Why Is The EXPS2-0 A Holographic Sight?
Holographic sights still produce red dots. What sets this sight apart from reflex sights and other red dots is that it uses a holographic plate to project it. This provides unprecedented depth perception, making aiming faster and easier.
Typically, red dot sights project a reticle forward and use the optic lens to reflect it. In contrast, the reticle on the Eotech is produced by a laser-driven hologram.
There are several benefits to utilizing this laser and holographic technology. To start, it’s easier to acquire targets. Furthermore, the depth perception of the red dot overlay is excellent.
Using the EXPS2
EOTech optics and sights are known for meeting high standards of quality. When you take this optic out of the box, you’ll see that there’s an aluminum frame protecting the lens.
This hood prevents glare thanks to its overhang. The glass it uses is crystal clear. Even though the EXPS2 is a smaller optic, it offers a relatively large field of view. The field of view is 100 yards at 30 yards.
As the sight is designed for aiming with both eyes open, you technically do not have a limitation on the field of view. The frame is slim enough to allow you to aim with both eyes compared to aiming with one eye as a lot of other optics force you to.
You can adjust windage and elevation on the EXPS2 within a 40 MOA range. Each click allows adjusting by 1/2 MOA.
The EXPS2 holographic sight has 4 inches of eye relief. It isn’t necessary to utilize this when using this optic. It’s possible to use the EXPS2 at any distance. This makes it an excellent choice if you’re using the optic on an AR rifle or any other firearm.
Adjusting the EXPS2
Another benefit of the EXPS2 is that it’s easy to work with. It was specifically designed for use in close quarters.
It’s useful in combat, in competitions, and in other situations that require you to transition quickly when engaging a target. The reticle is dual purpose and simple to work with.
Different Reticles between the EXPS2-0 and EXPS2-2
The reticle consists of a 68 MOA red circle and a 1 MOA dot. You can also get the XPS2 with a reticle consisting of two dots. The bottom dot is used as your aiming point for distances of 500 yards. The top drop, which you find in both reticle types, is calibrated for 50 yards for a .223 cal. 62gr, 2,900 vel round.
The 1 MOA dots allow for precision shots for short-ranges and medium-ranges. You can use this precision guidance for many different firearms, including some rifles with powerful recoil.
This is a rigid optic that’s capable of handling strong recoil. EOTech designed the EXPS2 to be used on the battlefield.
You won’t face any issues mounting it onto an M1A or shotguns. The sight will hold zero and withstand the recoil without a sweat.
Lens Coatings to Reduce Reflections
EOTech has the optical system and window coated with anti-reflective materials. This reduced glare in bright sunlight for the shooter.
It also reduces the reflection of light off the lens and makes it harder to be detected in the field by reflecting sunlight from the front lens.
It Has a Large Sight Window
Despite its small size, the sight window on the EOTech EXPS2 is quite large. This gives you a better sight picture and makes it possible for you to see more of your target. With this, you’ll be able to shoot at higher speeds.
On top of that, you won’t have issues with tunnel vision when using this optic. Some sights require you to look through a small tube, but that isn’t an issue here as you can aim with both eyes open without problems.
The Drawbacks of the EXPS2
This optic offers many advantages, but there are also some apparent drawbacks. For example, it isn’t compatible with night vision.
Since this optic is made to military specifications, this feels like a strange limitation. It means that the EXPS2 isn’t of great use in many home defense situations, and it could keep many people from investing in this optic.
The battery can also be an issue. The small size of CR123 batteries can be beneficial, but the batteries can also be costly and hard to find. On top of that, this optic offers over 1,000 fewer hours of battery life than the 512.
You can use the optic to co-witness with iron sights. The height of the EXPS2 allows for lower third co-witnessing of iron sights.
The price point is also a little steep, but in line with prices, you pay for EOTech holo sights. Understandably, you have to pay more for quality glass. However, this optic is exclusively made for close range, and you’ll have to spend more on a magnifier.
How Is The EXPS2 Different From The EXPS3?
The primary difference between these two optics is that the EXPS3 is compatible with night vision devices. Otherwise, the two sights are virtually the same.
Aside from that, you’ll find identical features on both optics, such as a large window for fast target acquisition, 20 brightness settings, and an integrated base mount.
If you need an optic with night vision compatibility, the EOTech EXPS3 holographic weapon sight is what you should be looking at. It’s well-suited for home defense and other applications thanks to its support of night vision devices.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the EXPS2 is a resilient and sturdy holographic sight from EOTech that’s well-suited to many applications. Not only can it be used by the police and the military. It is suitable for a regular person who needs an optic they can use with their rifles at home.
The EOTech EXPS2 is sturdy, simple to work with, light, and has countless applications, including home defense.
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