It’s 2023, and iron sights have become a thing of the past. No, not really. But they have definitely shifted to more of a back-up option than they once were. With more shooters transitioning to the red dot optic as a primary sighting system, there are more options than ever. There are hundreds of optics on the market with a wide range of prices, so it can be hard to know what to look for. Often, budget optics aren’t built to stand the test of time and can’t withstand the rigors from repeated recoil. Leapers UTG came to the table with the Accu-Sync, a high-quality optic at an even better price.
Accu-Sync Features
For a red dot coming in under $200, it is packed with features and constructed well. Set up for closer engagements, this non-magnified optic has a 3 MOA single dot which provides a good balance between a faster sight picture and not obscuring the target. The 1 MOA per click adjustment is both tactile and audible, which makes regulating your dot a breeze. With an impact-resistant tempered glass lens and anodized finish, this optic will last a lifetime.
The Accu-Sync incorporates 8 brightness settings to accommodate different weather and lighting conditions. Simply hold down one of the brightness adjustment buttons to turn the device on or off. There’s even an illumination memory feature that returns you to your most recent setting when you power on.
The optic runs on a CR2032 battery and has been optimized for low power consumption. This provides a 30,000+ hour life at the middle brightness setting. Additionally, a magnetized battery compartment reduces intermittent reticle illumination and flicker, keeping you on-target and shooting straight.
UTG includes a good mount with the optic. The base uses the common Mini ACOG footprint and is configured for a lower one-third (⅓) co-witness out of the box. Removing the riser drops the height down to that of a low mount with absolute cowitness, providing users two commonly used height profiles for different shooting applications. The mount features good adjustment, allowing it to be compatible with Picatinny rails with widths that may even be out of spec.
To unlock the quick-detach mount, press the safety button and pull the lever to release. Rotate the lever to relock the mount, and the safety button will click! into place. With the optic removed, squeeze the base and rotate the gear on the other side to adjust the tightness. When you release, a pin will automatically slide into place to retain the tension. The provided base is sturdy and durable with no slop or rattle when properly installed.
Specifications
- Machined 6061-T6 aluminum
- Impact-resistant tempered glass lens
- Red 3 MOA single dot
- 8 brightness settings
- 1 MOA per click adjustment
- No magnification
- Large field of view
- 30,000+ hour battery life (middle brightness setting)
- IPX7 waterproof rated
- Uses Mini ACOG footprint
- Includes removable low-profile quick release Picatinny mounting base with lower 1/3 riser
- Matte black anodized
- Lifetime warranty
- 6.1 ounces
Range Testing
I tested the UTG Accu-Sync on a 9mm Ruger PC Carbine and 5.56 Adams Arms piston AR-15. The primary testing was done on the AR to achieve a strong baseline. I fired Armscor and PMC brass target ammo and experienced good accuracy after a quick sight-in process. As I mentioned, the optic exhibits a positive click! for adjustment, which is easy to do with the provided tool. A flathead driver, coin, or rimmed cartridge case would work in a pinch.
A common issue with budget optics is that they don’t hold zero after repeated use. I did not experience this with the UTG Accu-Sync. It reliably returned to zero after pulling the optic off and on with the quick-release lever. As stated, this base allows you to co-witness with your iron sights — either absolute or lower 1/3 — depending on how you run the mount. For testing, I used the included riser to align at the lower 1/3. It worked well and provided a good sight picture.
For closer engagements, I had no complaints. The dot is crisp and the glass is clear. The 3 MOA size is fast to pick up and draws the eye in. However, given the design and intended application of the optic, when you begin stretching out past say 30 yards, the size of the dot begins to cover the target and can hinder your accuracy. This is not a ding against the Accu-Sync, rather a give and take you’ll experience with any optic.
Final Thoughts
There’s no shortage of options when it comes to a small, lightweight red dot for your tactical rifle of choice. Most options either come in at a higher price point or lack some of the features and durability. For those who don’t need an absolutely bomb-proof optic that’s ready to go to war, take a good look at Leapers UTG. The Accu-Sync runs well at a great price, it’s hard to beat.
What do you think of the UTG Accu-Sync? Share your thoughts in the Comment section.