Aimpoint red-dot sights have earned their reputation for quality and reliability. I own several, including the tiny Micro T-1. That's why I was very excited to test the Aimpoint Micro T-2 red-dot optic, which the company touts as an enhanced version of the T-1. Given my love for the T-1, I was curious to see how Aimpoint could improve upon its stellar design, as I saw few—if any—flaws in the original.
The most obvious difference between them is the Aimpoint Micro T-2 red-dot optic is larger than the T-1. It is about .3-inch longer and 1.2 ounces heavier with the mounting base attached. While the width and height are identical, the volume of the T-2 is noticeably larger, but we're talking fractions of an inch, not anything that would take it out of the "micro" category. Part of the reason for the added bulk is the addition of protective wings around the elevation adjustment atop the sight. These ensure the covered dial cannot be whacked out of alignment or damaged in any way by a strike from the front or rear.
The windage adjustment gets a similar, but not quite as complete wing to its rear (the front is protected by the rheostat controlling illumination). Because of the added protection, it is slightly more difficult to adjust the T-2's windage and elevation settings, but on an unmagnified red-dot sight, this is not a major concern—your zeroing will be accomplished at the range, and you will not need or want to make adjustments in the field. Since both the T-1 and the T-2 require the use of an included tool to adjust the reticle, this matter is certainly moot when comparing them.
Further adding to the sight's dimensions—compared to the T-1, that is—are see-through lens covers on both the ocular and objective lenses. These flip-up units are quite handy. They protect the lenses while allowing the shooter to obtain a sight picture whether they have been flipped up or not. On the T-1, aftermarket bikini-style covers that must be removed to use the sight are the only option.
The biggest upgrade on the Aimpoint Micro T-2 red dot is its objective lens. According to Aimpoint, the glass and coatings used on the objective lens were specifically designed to enhance clarity. Putting it next to the T-1, I could see an increase in sharpness, and while neither optic excels in low light—largely because a 20 mm objective limits the amount of light entering the scope—the T-2 allowed me to more clearly identify targets in poor light conditions than the T-1.
Both the T-1 and the T-2 boast ridiculously long battery life. Aimpoint claims the sights can stay on for 50,000 hours, or about five years. I have never had the opportunity to test this, since the company usually asks for its test samples back within six months or so, but my personal T-1 has been on for two years and remains as bright as the day I installed it on one of my AR-15s. Certainly, the cost savings (in batteries) and the lack of hassle is nice, but the biggest advantage of such long battery life is that you can keep the sight on when your rifle is stowed, but should you need to grab it in an emergency, you can be confident your sight will be fully functional. Just change the batteries every presidential election and you can rest assured your Aimpoint Micro T-2 red dot will be good to go when you need it.
Apart from these differences, the sights are functionally identical, which is a good thing. The T-1 became extremely popular because it is miniscule, making it an ideal optic for a lightweight AR or even some handguns. The Aimpoint Micro T-2 red dot builds upon the T-1's success with improved optics and a slightly more rugged design, making it an even better option for the same tasks.
Aimpoint Micro T-2 Specifications
Manufacturer: Aimpoint; (877) 246-7646
Magnification: 1X
Objective Lens Diameter: 20 mm
Finish: Hard-anodized, semi-matte
Reticle: 2-MOA illuminated red dot
Adjustments: .5 inch at 100 yards windage and elevation
Eye Relief: Unlimited
Battery Life: 50,000 hours (continuous on); 500,000 hours at night-vision setting
Length: 2.7 inches
Weight: 4.9 ounces (with integrated mount)
Accessories: Flip-up see-through lens covers, adjustment and mounting tool, manual
MSRP: $846
