Trijicon MGRS Machine Gun Red Dot Sight Review

Let’s Dive into Trijicon MGRS Machine Gun Red Dot Sight

The Trijicon MGRS Machine Gun Red Dot Sight is a purpose-built optic designed to enhance target acquisition and accuracy for machine gunners. Manufactured by Trijicon, this sight aims to significantly improve first-round hit probability, reduce training time, and streamline ammunition expenditure across various weapon systems. This is a tool intended to bring modern optic technology to the historically iron-sight-focused world of machine gun employment.

My work as a tactical gear specialist often involves evaluating the efficacy of optics in improving combat effectiveness. I needed a rugged, reliable, and rapidly deployable sighting system that could withstand the rigors of sustained machine gun fire while providing superior target acquisition capabilities. Traditional iron sights on machine guns can be challenging, especially under stress or in low-light conditions.

Upon unboxing, the Trijicon MGRS Machine Gun Red Dot Sight immediately conveys a sense of ruggedness and quality. The matte black finish on the forged aluminum housing feels exceptionally durable, while the weight (66.9 oz) hints at the substantial construction necessary to withstand the punishing recoil of machine gun fire. The inclusion of a polymer hard case, Trijicon logo sticker, LensPen, manual, warranty card, and MOLLE bag is a thoughtful touch, indicating attention to detail and user convenience.

Compared to other red dot sights, like the Aimpoint CompM4 or EOTech holographic sights (often seen on individual carbines), the Trijicon MGRS Machine Gun Red Dot Sight stands apart due to its specialized design for machine gun applications. While those sights are fantastic on rifles, this is built for sustained fire, offering a large objective lens and segmented circle reticle designed for rapid target engagement at varying distances. It’s less about precision marksmanship and more about suppressive accuracy on a larger scale.

My first impression was one of anticipation and a healthy dose of skepticism. Can a red dot sight truly revolutionize machine gunnery, or is this just another expensive gadget? Only rigorous testing would tell.


Real-World Testing: Putting Trijicon MGRS Machine Gun Red Dot Sight to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Trijicon MGRS Machine Gun Red Dot Sight took place at a military training range, mounted on an M240B machine gun. The range offered various target distances and simulated combat scenarios. The conditions included bright sunlight, overcast skies, and brief periods of light rain, providing a good test of the sight’s performance under varying conditions.

The Trijicon MGRS Machine Gun Red Dot Sight excelled in target acquisition speed. The large objective lens (2-3 inches) and the 35 MOA segmented circle reticle made it incredibly easy to get on target quickly, even while firing from the hip or moving between positions. I didn’t need much time to get used to it; the learning curve was surprisingly shallow, and the intuitive design allowed for rapid integration into standard operating procedures.

The only initial issue I encountered was adjusting the brightness settings in extremely bright sunlight; the lower settings were washed out. However, cycling through the seven brightness levels quickly resolved this issue, highlighting the importance of understanding the sight’s illumination range.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Trijicon MGRS Machine Gun Red Dot Sight has proven to be exceptionally durable and reliable. Despite prolonged exposure to heat, dust, and simulated battlefield conditions, there were no signs of fogging or loss of zero. The aluminum housing has held up well against the constant vibrations and recoil forces generated by the M240B.

Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe-down of the lens with the included LensPen after each use is sufficient to keep the sight clean and functioning optimally. The sight has far exceeded my initial expectations. Its ruggedness, ease of use, and significant improvement in target acquisition speed make it a game-changer for machine gunners.

Breaking Down the Features of Trijicon MGRS Machine Gun Red Dot Sight

Specifications

  • The Trijicon MGRS Machine Gun Red Dot Sight is manufactured by Trijicon and comes in a matte black finish. The housing is constructed from forged 7075-T6 aluminum, known for its exceptional strength and durability.
  • It features 1x magnification, an objective lens diameter between 2 and 3 inches, and an illuminated red MGRS-D-2300002 MOA Segmented Circle reticle. The reticle is powered by an LED with seven brightness settings, offering unlimited eye relief.
  • The sight operates on a single battery and is waterproof to 6.6 feet. The windage and elevation travel is 100 MOA at 100 yards.
  • Weighing in at 66.9 oz, it includes detachable Picatinny rails for accessory mounting, and comes packaged in a polymer hard case with accessories. It is also shockproof.

These specifications are critical because they directly impact the sight’s durability, ease of use, and effectiveness in the field. The aluminum construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of combat, while the illuminated reticle and adjustable brightness settings allow for rapid target acquisition in various lighting conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Trijicon MGRS Machine Gun Red Dot Sight dramatically improves a machine gunner’s ability to acquire and engage targets quickly and accurately. The segmented circle reticle allows for rapid estimation of range and lead, leading to increased first-round hit probability. It excels in close-quarters combat and medium-range engagements, providing a clear advantage over traditional iron sights.

A slight weakness might be the lack of magnification for long-range engagements. However, this is not its primary purpose, and the benefits in speed and situational awareness far outweigh this limitation. The sight fully meets and even exceeds expectations in terms of its intended role: enhancing the effectiveness of machine gun fire.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is outstanding. The materials used are top-notch, and the sight feels incredibly solid and well-constructed. The weight, while substantial, is manageable, and the overall design is ergonomic, allowing for comfortable and intuitive operation, even with gloves.

The sight is user-friendly, and the controls are easily accessible and adjustable, even under stress. The large objective lens provides a wide field of view, further enhancing situational awareness.

Durability & Maintenance

The Trijicon MGRS Machine Gun Red Dot Sight is built to last. The rugged aluminum housing and waterproof design ensure it can withstand harsh environmental conditions and the constant recoil of machine gun fire. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lens and periodic battery replacement.

With proper care, this sight should provide years of reliable service, making it a worthwhile investment for any machine gunner or military unit.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Trijicon MGRS Machine Gun Red Dot Sight comes with a LensPen for cleaning, a Trijicon logo sticker, a manual, a warranty card, and a MOLLE bag for storage and transport. The three detachable Picatinny rails allow for the mounting of various accessories, such as lasers, IR illuminators, or rangefinders.

The sight is compatible with most standard Picatinny rail mounting systems, making it easy to integrate with existing weapon platforms. While there are no specific customization options offered by Trijicon for the MGRS, the modular design allows users to tailor the accessory loadout to their specific needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons of Trijicon MGRS Machine Gun Red Dot Sight

Pros

  • Dramatically improves target acquisition speed. The segmented circle reticle and large objective lens make it incredibly easy to get on target.
  • Enhances first-round hit probability. The reticle design aids in rapid estimation of range and lead.
  • Extremely durable and reliable. The forged aluminum housing and waterproof design ensure it can withstand harsh conditions.
  • User-friendly design. The controls are easily accessible and adjustable, even under stress.
  • Detachable Picatinny rails. Allows for mounting of lasers, IR illuminators, or rangefinders.

Cons

  • Relatively heavy. At 66.9 oz, it adds significant weight to the weapon system.
  • High price point. At $3549.00, it’s a significant investment.


Who Should Buy Trijicon MGRS Machine Gun Red Dot Sight?

The Trijicon MGRS Machine Gun Red Dot Sight is perfect for military units, law enforcement agencies, and security personnel who rely on machine guns for suppressive fire and area denial. It is particularly beneficial for machine gunners who operate in dynamic environments where rapid target acquisition and engagement are critical. Units wanting to upgrade from iron sights and improve hit probability will see significant benefits.

This product might not be suitable for civilian shooters or those who primarily engage in precision marksmanship activities. The sight’s design and features are specifically tailored for machine gun applications.

A must-have accessory would be a high-quality laser rangefinder for precise distance estimation, especially in longer-range engagements. A durable weapon-mounted light would also be a valuable addition for low-light operations.

Conclusion on Trijicon MGRS Machine Gun Red Dot Sight

The Trijicon MGRS Machine Gun Red Dot Sight is a game-changing optic that significantly enhances the effectiveness of machine gunners in the field. Its rugged design, ease of use, and dramatic improvement in target acquisition speed make it a valuable asset for any military or law enforcement unit. The price is justified by its exceptional performance, durability, and the tangible benefits it provides in terms of increased accuracy and reduced training time.

I would highly recommend the Trijicon MGRS Machine Gun Red Dot Sight to any organization seeking to modernize its machine gun capabilities and improve the lethality of its forces. Invest in the Trijicon MGRS Machine Gun Red Dot Sight and experience the future of machine gunnery.

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