As our group sat around a nighttime campfire after hours of shooting and instruction earlier that day, SilencerCo’s Johnny Primiano, a former Special Forces sergeant first class, made an interesting comment: “In my experience, more bad guys have been taken out with a Trijicon scope — mostly some version of the ACOG — than any other optic out there today.” If there is a better testimonial to the quality and durability of a riflescope, I have yet to hear it.

On this shoot we had several different Trijicon models to play with. All proved to be outstanding scopes. They included:

Trijicon TARS

This is a rugged variable powerriflescope with the precise adjustability that long-range shooting demands. It features a first focal plane reticle with 10 illumination settings – including two for night vision. Oversized target adjusters feature 150 MOA/44 mil total elevation adjustment and 30 MOA/10 mil adjustments per revolution as well as a mechanism to prevent unintentional adjuster rotation. Combined with an elevation Return to Zero feature, the TARS allows for rapid zeroing on a target no matter the distance. It comes in a 3-15x50 configuration.

Trijicon VCOG (Variable Combat Optical Gunsight)

A rugged variable-powered riflescope with an LED illuminated first focal plane BDC reticle. The VCOG is designed for extreme durability and features superior glass quality. The magnification range accommodates CQB and long distance marksmanship. The VCOG is a MIL-spec grade optic, robust enough for any application. It comes in a 1-6x24 configuration.

Trijicon AccuPoint

This high-quality, variable powered sporting riflescope features a battery-free illuminated reticle, superior glass clarity and rugged construction. Designed to stand up to the elements, the AccuPoint maintains the refinement needed for precise windage and elevation adjustments. The multi-layer coated lenses provide superior light transmission, while the illuminated reticle aids in quick target engagement. The AccuPoint provides a quick focus eyepiece and long eye relief. It comes in 1-4x24, 2.5-10x56 and 5-20x50 configurations.

“The TARS 3-15X and the TR23 AccuPoint 5-20X are excellent choices for predator hunters,” Trijicon’s Tom Maciak, the expert long-range shooter, told us. “For longer distance shooting the TARS scopes are best for the amount of elevation adjustment they have. All three of the aforementioned scopes are good for low-light use thanks to the glass quality.

“For shorter ranges the VCOG is a great choice,” Maciak said. “This optic employs a BDC reticle system and is very good choice for quick shot opportunities.” We used this scope to run through a quick-shot course where shots ranged between 100 and 500 meters, and everyone involved — included the combat veterans — were singing its praises once we were done

For more information on Trijicon’s complete lineup of high-quality products, contact them at (248) 960-7700; www.trijicon.com. Check out the December issue of Predator Xtreme for Bob Robb's full article on long-range-shooting school.