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Trijicon VCOG 1-6 Review: Is This Scope Worth It?

1_Trijicon VCOG 1-6 Review- Is This Scope Worth It--

Whether a beginner or veteran shooter, you’ve undoubtedly heard of Trijicon.

They’re known for being virtually indestructible, preferred by many military and authority personnel.

I’ve personally followed and loved the Trijicon ACOG (Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight) series.

But when they integrated variable power optics, it was game over.

The VCOG has been a SUPERIOR option for troops and hunters alike, and I’ll explain why in this Trijicon VCOG 1-6 review.

Don’t worry; I’ll use words you can understand. Get ready to be in awe of this riflescope!

Overview of the Trijicon VCOG 1-6×24

Trijicon VCOG 1-6

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VCOG stands for Variable Combat Optical Gunsight.

As the name suggests, it runs on variable magnification power that performs excellently in close quarters and long distances.

It belongs up there in the HIGH-END optics category.

I have to admit; it’s an expensive scope! But unlike others, the VCOG genuinely exceeds precision, clarity, and durability standards!

Specifications

  • Reticle: First Focal Plane reticle (FFP)
  • Magnification: 1-6×24
  • Objective Lens: 24mm
  • Exterior: Forged 7075-T6 aluminum housing
  • Mounting Type: Picatinny rail mounting system
  • Battery Power: Single lithium AA battery
  • Battery Life: 700 hours at setting 4 (constant on)
  • Eye Relief: Constant eye relief (integrated dial fin)
  • Style: ‎Segmented circle reticle/crosshair .223 / 55 grain, thumbscrew [multiple options available]
  • Adjustments: 1/4 MOA per click; elevation adjustment available
  • Adjustment Range: 90 MOA Total Travel (35 MOA Per Revolution)
  • Waterproof: Up to 66 ft.
  • Dimensions and Weight: 10.05 x 2.51 x 2.73 in.; 23.3 oz. (w/o Mount or battery)
  • Price: SRP $2,884
Pros
  • You'll enjoy superior glass quality with zero distortion
  • Allows quick and accurate estimate range as you engage targets
  • It helps with correct hold
  • Consistent precision, subtensions, and drops regardless of magnification
  • Highly durable and indestructible – you don't have to worry about intense activities
  • Quick-release mount; universal mounting adapter; easy windage setup
  • Long battery life
  • No head or stock position adjustments needed
  • No mount rings are required
  • It's waterproof
  • It comes with a warranty card
Cons
  • Very expensive
  • Slightly heavier than other riflescopes
  • It takes adjustment if you're used to using ACOG or Secondary Focal Plane (SFP)
  • VCOG isn't the best for long-range shooting (but still good)

Full Review of the Trijicon VCOG 1-6×24

Now, let’s get into the action.

Here’s my review of this high-end optic. Is it worth the hype? You decide!

Build Quality

Build quality icon

I don’t have anything else to say except forged 7075-T6 aircraft-aluminum-alloy housing. This speaks for itself!

If you’re unfamiliar, this material is basically INDESTRUCTIBLE.

It stood the test of time and the US Department of Defense, no less. You’d have to try your hardest to destroy this optic body.

As they say, it’s built like a TANK! 

No drops or scratches will affect the scope quality. You can quickly tell by its look and feel, too!

Plus, I don’t think you’d intentionally damage this scope after paying almost $3,000 for it!

Ease of Use

Ease of use icon

You’d think using such a high-end optic scope would be complicated.

But NO! This optic scope is very straightforward, from when you mount it to actual usage.

You don’t need mounting rings anymore because of the universal compatibility. 

This tactical scope also boasts thumbscrews and a quick-release mount for easier attachment.

And although the integral mount looks huge, it leaves plenty of space on the rifle for other accessories.

Another contributor to its ease of use is the fin.

You can quickly turn the dial to adjust magnification from 1x to 6x. I did some box-drill to test this, and it did not disappoint!

But don’t misunderstand.

As smooth as the dial is, it requires some proper turning to avoid accidentally changing the magnification.

I also appreciate that adjustments for elevation and windage only require half-inch clicks with a 90-minute angle range.

Optics Illumination

Illumination

The illumination, powered by one AA battery, has six (6) brightness settings with user-friendly options.

It has an “off” button that you easily click when it’s not needed.

What amazed me most was the light transmission and CLARITY of the targets, even under the bright sun. The etched reticle is also visible even when off.

Thanks to the segmented circle design, it naturally redirects your vision to the center.

Lenses Magnification

Magnification

The magnification is, as expected, very crisp!

There’s ZERO distortion, even at its maximum range. The fin also makes it easy to adjust even under challenging circumstances.

Though I think it’s not precisely for long-range shooting, it still performs well at a farther distance.

According to other users, the most optimal distance is from 300 to 600 yards.

Additionally, VCOG magnification is known to be VERSATILE or “all-around.” It’s great for hunting, recreation, and even critical operations.

But to throw this out there, I find the primary crosshairs in the center a bit thicker at 6x magnification.

Scope performance is still outstanding, but I found it challenging to accurately shoot smaller targets at a farther distance.

But then again, it’s not precisely for long-range, so it makes sense.

Reticle

Reticle icon

You have two reticle options for the optics; the horseshoe reticle and the segmented circle reticle.

Both of these are helpful with bullet drops at a 400-meter target.

I like that the Trijicon VCOG 1-6x24scope comes in the first focal plane because the reticle-to-target ratio is constant.

I often use fast-application guns, so that’s a huge bonus.

A shooter used to SFP may take some getting used to this. Since for SFP, the reticles remain the same even as you zoom.

It has its perks, but it can make target acquisition more inaccurate. That’s not the case for FFP.

To each their own! But FFP is worth trying, particularly for long-range targets.

And while we’re on the topic, I think the zoom of these reticles is worth mentioning! It’s so smooth and seamless, perfect for hunting!

Windage/Elevation/Parallax

Adjustments

 

I don’t really have much to complain about the adjustment knobs!

Each turn of the knob is smooth and audible, which is much needed on the field. It also translates into my accuracy, which is how I know the things do their job.

The parallax adjustment with an illuminated reticle is a great touch as well.

However, I noticed it’s a bit tricky to adjust, as you MIGHT accidentally change your illumination settings as well.

That being said, combining the parallax and illumination is a weird decision, but you’ll get used to it.

Weight

Weight icon

The Trijicon VCOG 1-6×24 scope weighs 657.71 grams, which isn’t all bad.

It’s considered heavier than other models in the market, especially if you’re coming from ACOG scopes.

It does add to the overall mass of the rifle.

But to be fair, with its power and durability, a little heaviness is understandable. I also don’t find it challenging to get used to!

Battery Life

Battery

For the battery, it uses one standard lithium AA battery.

If you choose a good brand, it may last for roughly 1400 hours at brightness level 4.

Its duration is also dependent on how often you use the scope. Obviously, to conserve the battery, turn off everything that’s not in use.

I’m also glad the package came with a battery! That’s another expense I didn’t have to worry about.

Pricing

Price tag icon

Lastly, the primary con of the Trijicon VCOG 1-6×24 is the cost. Not all customers can pay $3,000 for a riflescope, which is reasonable.

But understand that the high price is for the power, durability, and reliability many shooters need.

If you have the budget, I think it’s a worthy investment!

Overall Rating: 4/5 Stars

4 out of 5 stars banner

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Difference Between ACOG and VCOG?

VCOG is an UPGRADED ACOG.

They have similar features and build, but VCOG has more brightness settings and improved visual performance.

People prefer VCOG because it solves the reticle “problem” that ACOG users experience.

Where is Trijicon VCOG Made?

Trijicon VCOG (and most of its products) are 100% made in the United States, particularly in Wixom, Michigan, or Auburn, California.

How Far Can You Shoot With a 1×6 Scope?

The most optimal distance is 300 to 600 yards.

You can go as far as 1,000 with the Trijicon VCOG but expect some zooming discrepancies. It’s still great, though!

My Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

Yes, it’s worth it!

But is it for everyone? Probably not.

I gave the Trijicon VCOG 1-6×24 a 4/5 because of the price. The performance is terrific, as expected from them.

If we’re talking about “worthiness,” the quality and price make sense.

If you have the budget, I say go ahead and try it! But if $3,000 is too much, some alternatives also perform excellently.

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