First Impressions of OpticGard Holosun EPS Carry Scope Cover
The OpticGard Holosun EPS Carry Scope Cover is a seemingly simple piece of kit, but one that promises both protection and enhanced training capabilities for your Holosun EPS Carry optic. Designed by OpticGard, this thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) cover aims to shield your optic from scratches and stray casings, while also offering the potential for occlusion training. It’s a clever, inexpensive accessory that attempts to solve multiple problems at once.
As someone who spends a lot of time at the range and in the field, I was particularly intrigued by the potential for both protection and training. I’ve ruined enough lenses over the years to know the value of a good optic cover. The appeal of the OpticGard Holosun EPS Carry Scope Cover was strong, promising to guard against damage and allow me to work on target focus drills.
The cover arrived in a simple, no-frills package. My initial impression was that it was surprisingly lightweight and flexible. The fit and finish seemed decent for a TPU product. I own a few similar items like the Strike Industries lens covers, and I chose the OpticGard Holosun EPS Carry Scope Cover for its specific fit with the Holosun EPS Carry.
Initially, I was optimistic. The OpticGard Holosun EPS Carry Scope Cover looked like a practical solution to a common problem, offering both protection and a unique training aid.
Real-World Testing: Putting OpticGard Holosun EPS Carry Scope Cover to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the OpticGard Holosun EPS Carry Scope Cover at my local indoor shooting range. I ran drills with my Glock 43X MOS equipped with the Holosun EPS Carry. The range offered a controlled environment to assess the cover’s primary function: protection and potential occlusion training.
The cover was easy to install, snapping onto the EPS Carry with minimal effort. I quickly noticed that while the cover stayed in place during firing, the edges nearest the ejection port caught a few stray brass casings. This did cause some minor annoyance. Initial occlusion training felt awkward at first; it took time to adjust to focusing solely with my non-dominant eye.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the OpticGard Holosun EPS Carry Scope Cover across multiple range trips and even a couple of outdoor training sessions, my opinion is mixed. While the cover still provides decent protection against scratches and minor impacts, its long-term durability is questionable. The TPU material is showing signs of wear around the edges from repeated installation and removal.
Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe with a damp cloth. I am a little disappointed in its overall performance. It offers decent protection but the design could use some tweaking. Compared to other optic covers I’ve used, it falls short in terms of robust construction and refined functionality.
Breaking Down the Features of OpticGard Holosun EPS Carry Scope Cover
Specifications
- Manufacturer: OpticGard. The company focuses on protective accessories for optics.
- Fabric/Material: Thermoplastic Polyurethane. TPU offers a balance of flexibility and abrasion resistance.
- Compatibility: Holosun EPS Carry. This cover is specifically designed for this optic.
- Features: Occlusion training aid, protection against scratches and stray bullet casings, intelligent cut for sights, fast installation, interlocking pins for secure fit. These features address common concerns among pistol owners.
These specifications highlight the OpticGard Holosun EPS Carry Scope Cover‘s intended use as a lightweight, protective, and training-focused accessory. The TPU material is key to its flexibility and impact resistance, while the tailored fit ensures compatibility with the EPS Carry optic.
Performance & Functionality
The OpticGard Holosun EPS Carry Scope Cover performs its primary function – protecting the optic lens – adequately. It shields the glass from scratches and minor impacts. The occlusion training feature, while functional, requires practice and isn’t as seamless as dedicated occlusion devices.
The cover’s main weakness is its tendency to catch ejected brass. The design could benefit from a more streamlined profile. It mostly meets expectations as a basic protective cover but falls short as a dedicated training tool.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for a TPU product at this price point. The OpticGard Holosun EPS Carry Scope Cover feels lightweight and doesn’t add noticeable bulk to the pistol. However, the edges could be smoother to prevent snagging.
The installation process is straightforward, and access to optic buttons remains unobstructed. There’s a minimal learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
The TPU material should last for a reasonable amount of time under normal range conditions. However, it is susceptible to wear and tear with frequent use. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a wipe down with a damp cloth.
The long-term durability is a concern, particularly with repeated installation and removal. The material could potentially crack or tear under stress.
Accessories and Customization Options
The OpticGard Holosun EPS Carry Scope Cover is a standalone product and doesn’t offer many accessory options. Its main function is to complement the Holosun EPS Carry optic. It does not offer any customization options.
It’s compatible with most standard pistol sights and suppressor sights, thanks to its intelligent cut. It’s designed to work seamlessly with the existing setup.
Pros and Cons of OpticGard Holosun EPS Carry Scope Cover
Pros
- Affordable protection for the Holosun EPS Carry optic.
- Easy and fast installation and removal.
- Offers occlusion training capabilities for target focus.
- Lightweight design adds minimal bulk to the pistol.
- Cutout design accommodates most rear and suppressor sights.
Cons
- Can catch ejected brass, causing distraction and potential damage.
- TPU material may not be as durable as other materials in the long run.
- Occlusion training feature requires dedicated practice to master.
Who Should Buy OpticGard Holosun EPS Carry Scope Cover?
The OpticGard Holosun EPS Carry Scope Cover is perfect for budget-conscious shooters looking for basic protection for their Holosun EPS Carry optic. It also appeals to those who want to experiment with occlusion training techniques without investing in specialized equipment. This is also suited for anyone looking to cover up lettering.
Those who prioritize ultimate durability or require a completely snag-free design should skip this product. Also, anyone looking for advanced occlusion training tools should look elsewhere. A must-have modification would be sanding down the edges to make it snag-free.
Conclusion on OpticGard Holosun EPS Carry Scope Cover
The OpticGard Holosun EPS Carry Scope Cover offers a decent value proposition for its price. It provides a basic level of protection for your Holosun EPS Carry optic while offering a unique, albeit rudimentary, occlusion training feature. However, it’s not without its flaws.
While the price is justified for the protection it offers, the occlusion training feature feels more like a gimmick than a serious training tool. I would recommend it to shooters on a tight budget looking for minimal lens protection and are not too bothered about the snagging issues. If you’re after something more robust and refined, you may want to explore other options. Consider the OpticGard Holosun EPS Carry Scope Cover as a stepping stone, not the ultimate solution, for optic protection and training.