Eotech 512 vs XPS2 Round 1: What They Have in Common
Both the 512 and XPS2 are relatively simple optics. They are 1x optics that utilize Eotech’s square-shaped design. Both are designed to be used in close quarters and excel on shotguns, rifles, and one can function on pistols even. The 512 and XPS2 are robust optics. Neither is night-vision compatible, but both could be used for home defense, competition, and hunting.
Both feature one of my favorite features on any red dot ever: a memory-based setting system. If I set the optic to my preferred settings, let’s say 13 and I turn the optic off. Now when I turn the optic back on the setting is immediately back to 13. With the simple push of a button, I’m back to where I started.
Both also use a dynamic reticle that sets Eotech apart from most traditional red dot optics. The base option for both is the larger circle and mini dot. This system excels in both close-quarters shooting as well as shooting out to 200 yards.
Eotech 512 vs XPS2 Round 2: Eotech 512 Strengths & Weaknesses
The 512 is likely the design most people picture when you say the word Eotech. The 512 has been around forever and is a well proven and highly respected optic. This is a full sized Eotech optic and runs off of two AA batteries. The battery life can be as long as 1,000 hours provided you utilize quality batteries and the medium setting. The battery life isn’t as great as most red dots, but the more complicated reticle does require more battery power. The good news is AA batteries are quite cheap and common around the world.
The Eotech 512 has carved a bit of a niche out in the optic’s world. It’s become a favorite of brush hunters and is perfectly suited for most modern rifles. The Eotech 512 excels on both rifles and shotguns. When it comes to brush hunting, your reaction time is critical and the Eotech 512’s -0 zero reticle is perfect for quick reactions and accurate shots. The Eotech 512 comes in only 1 reticle design and that is the classic -0 Eotech reticle:
The Eotech 512 is available in both camo and black finishes. When combined with a magnifier, especially one from Eotech, it’s terrific for longer-range shots. The addition of a magnifier extends your effective range out to 500 yards without much difficulty. The Eotech 512 is a fantastic optic and mounts well to full-sized shotguns, as well as AR 15 rifles.
The Eotech 512 is completely submersible and can be submerged up to 10 feet and remain effective. Since the Eotech 512 is the bigger optic, it is the beefier optic. It weighs 11.5 ounces but it’s hardly too big for easy use.
There is one downside to the Eotech 512 and its large size. If you want to use a magnifier with the Eotech 512 you’ll need an extended rail system on your handguard to make it all fit. Keep this in mind when choosing an optic. Guns without these rail systems won’t make mounting a magnifier easy. The same could be said for shorter carbines, or older weapons like the HK91 series of rifles.
The Eotech 512 is a capable and classic optic with a proven track record of success. You can’t go wrong with such a well-proven optic.
Eotech 512 vs XPS2 Round 3: Eotech XPS2 Strengths & Weaknesses
The Eotech XPS2 is a bit of a younger optic compared to the Eotech 512. Now, this isn’t a bad thing since the optic itself is both the little brother in age and in size. The XPS2 is a much smaller Eotech optic. However, it does offer the same size viewing port as a full-sized Eotech optic. The XPS2 and 512 have the same sized viewing window, but the XPS2 features a much shorter battery compartment. The battery is even positioned sideways instead of a more standard configuration. This gives the XPS2 its little hump up front.
Instead of utilizing two AA batteries, the XPS2 uses a single CR123 battery. This results in a much smaller size as well as a lower battery life. You are only going to squeeze out about 600 hours on a single battery. The XPS2 also features 20 brightness settings so you are prepared to deal with whatever, whenever. The shorter battery configuration means you need less rail space to mount the optic. This results in more than enough space on a standard AR upper for an optic and a magnifier.
The XPS2 has the standard -0 reticle, but there is also a single dot option, an XPS2-2 which features 2 dots, as well XPS2 FN and XPS2 Sage options. You have plenty of reticle options with the XPS2. The XPS2 is a small optic and weighs only 9 ounces. The optic is very much like an early Ford Model T: it comes in any color you want as long as its black.
The XPS2 is better suited for smaller guns or guns with very limited scope rails. Outside of magnifiers, there is still plenty of room for iron sights and other accessories. The XPS2 would be my choice for home defense. Its lighter weight and smaller design make it better suited for shotguns, especially short home defense guns.
Eotech 512 vs XPS2 Round 4: Price
The XPS2 (see full specs) is the higher priced optic and its what you expect from a newer optic. The MSRP on the XPS2 is usually higher than the Eotech 512 (see full specs). If the price is the biggest concern then the 512 is the way to go. If size is the biggest concern then the XPS2 is the way to go. Both optics offer you outstanding performance and a well-made design.
Bottom line: you’ll be well equipped and well armed with either optic. Good luck!
If you mount the XPS and the 512 at the same point on your rifle, there is just as much room for a magnifier behind both of them. The 512 will hang over (not touch) your front rail.
The only real difference between the two is the battery type. Same controls, same size windows, yes the XPS has different reticle options but most sold probably come with the standard one that is on the 512. AA batteries are easier to get and if not using the Lithium versions have less travel restrictions.