AR Optics: NcStar Mark 3 USS and red dots with magnifiers

[MudRhino]

I had been trying to first decide between whether I should go for a red dot or a magnified scope (this is before even trying to pick out a manufacturer and model) and have two questions:

1. I did a search but couldn't find anything on this particular model of this scope. I came across this NcStar USS (Ultimate Sighting System) Mark III scope/red dot combo on slickguns.com: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0030H59PG...tiveASIN=B0030H59PG&adid=0T25R91PVNTJ1Q1AH3MA.

Anybody ever use this USS model? I have read about NCStar around on the forum and it seems the opinions are pretty divided: some say avoid like the plague as they are for air rifles, and others seem to have had pretty decent experiences with them. I am more wondering about the comfort/feasibility of using the red dot mounted on top of the scope. The scope already seems to be mounted high and I am concerned that using the red dot might be a bit awkward.

I was considering it more seriously when it was at $94 but the price just jumped up to $131 so now my doubts are becoming more of a concern.

2. I am also thinking about just saving up another 100-200 and trying to find a used aimpoint (or comparable) red dot. I would then probably pick up a magnifier at some point. Anybody have any experience with the third party less expensive magnifiers? I found a few on Amazon that ranged from $50-150 and a couple have decent reviews (although the caliber being used wasn't always specified).

**Edit: Forgot to mention that this would be on a 223 AR. It would be used mostly for indoor range plinking in the immediate future but I would like to purchase optics that would give me the most versatility. This AR would also be my SHTF weapon

 

[Jimbob2.0]

Buy once cry once, get a decent optic.

I have some forgiveness for NCSTAR for some apps but these are junk.

 

[fordtruck317]

It all depends what you are going to use it for and what caliber your using

 

[MudRhino]

It all depends what you are going to use it for and what caliber your using

Sorry, forgot to mention that this would be on a 223 AR. It would be used mostly for indoor range plinking in the immediate future but would like to purchase optics that would give me the most versatility. This AR would also be my SHTF weapon (original post edited to specify this).

 

[fordtruck317]

I have had a center point red dot and a 3x9x40 leapers scope on my AR. I didnt have any problems at the range. If I used it everyday, I would buy better.

 

[Kilroy]

Check out a Primary Arms clone. I wouldn't use NCStar if it was free.

 

[DeadIDik]

Primary arms is as low end as i would go and id have to be desperate. Better off saving money and buying something worth a crap.

 

[hvymax]

That looks like the wost of both worlds.

 

[Eviljagtech]

I have a Vortex Strikefire on my AR, its not cheap but compared to Aim Point and EOTech its 1/5th the price and they sell a magnifier for it as well. I paid about 160 shipped and it has good reviews, comes with a mount and i give it a thumbs up for what its worth. Never could understand why people pay for a red dot what you can buy a great handgun for.

 

[fordtruck317]

I have a Vortex Strikefire on my AR, its not cheap but compared to Aim Point and EOTech its 1/5th the price and they sell a magnifier for it as well. I paid about 160 shipped and it has good reviews, comes with a mount and i give it a thumbs up for what its worth. Never could understand why people pay for a red dot what you can buy a great handgun for.

I agree. I have read some good reviews on the Strikefire but I haven't tried it. Yet

 

[Ooops]

I have a Strikefire it's ok. As soon as I had enough money I bought a Compm4. Honestly, I see no difference in in the dot.