EOTech XPS3-0 Review: A Holographic Marvel for AR-15 Enthusiasts

As an avid AR-15 enthusiast, I recently got my hands on the EOTech XPS3-0, the flagship product from the renowned optics manufacturer. Having explored various optics options in the past, the EOTech XPS3-0 caught my attention with its promise of exceptional performance and innovative features. In this review, I’ll share my first-hand experience with the optic. 

Specifications and Background of EOTech XPS3-0

First things first, let me take you through the background and specifications of this optic before I dive into the full review. EOTech, short for Electro-Optics Technologies, has been a prominent player in the optics game since its founding in 1995. Known for pioneering holographic weapon sights (HWS), EOTech has consistently delivered cutting-edge technology tailored for military, law enforcement, and civilian applications. EOTech designed their flagship product, the holographic weapon sight XPS3, with duty use in mind, making it an ideal choice for AR-15 enthusiasts. 

Now, on to the specifications. The XPS3 operates on a single CR123 battery, providing power for its holographic reticle. This design choice eliminates concerns about battery displacement under recoil, protecting the lower parts and ensuring a stable power source for optimal performance.

The XPS3 features a 1 MOA center dot reticle, offering precise aiming for both short-range and long-range shots. Surrounding the 1 MOA dot is a 65 MOA ring. This larger ring aids in quick target acquisition, providing a wide field of view for close-quarters engagements. 

One of the standout features is its compatibility with night vision devices. This makes the XPS3 a versatile choice for low-light conditions or scenarios where night vision technology is utilized. The XPS3 provides unlimited eye relief, allowing users to maintain a comfortable shooting position without the need to align their eye precisely with the optic. 

But what really sets the XPS3 apart is its use of holographic technology, offering advantages such as a consistent reticle size when magnified. Unlike a traditional red dot sight, the holographic reticle remains the same size in this XPS3 holographic weapon sight, providing consistent aiming reference regardless of magnification. The optic gives you multiple brightness settings and I appreciate the ability to adjust the reticle intensity based on ambient lighting conditions. 

While the XPS3 offers a respectable 600 hours of battery life, it’s important to note that this duration may be shorter compared to some competitors. We’ll come back to this later in the review. 

Okay, now let’s dive straight into my EOTech XPS3-0.

EOTech XPS3-0 Features

1 Reticle

The EOTech XPS3 features a very simple reticle with a 1 MOA center dot and a 68 MOA ring.

2 Controls

Rear facing controls allow you to adjust brightness without taking eyes off the viewing window with 20 daylight settings including night vision compatible settings.

3 Rugged housing

Rugged metal housing protects the electronics.

4 Zero adjustment

0.5 MOA adjustments for both windage and elevation for fine tuning zero.

5 Battery

Transverse mounted CR123 battery prevents contacts from being disrupted from recoil and is easy to change the battery without being in the way of your view or taking up a lot of rail space.

My Review of EOTech XPS3-0

Alright, let’s talk about glass quality. It’s like looking through a crystal-clear window, but it is not all rainbows and unicorns. Some customer reviews mention the glass being a tad reflective, and they’re not wrong. In real-world scenarios, though, it’s a minor hiccup. 

In indoor shooting or low-light scenarios, the reticle brightness shines like a beacon. It’s more than enough to guide your aim and put those rounds exactly where you want them. So, while the reflective nature might raise an eyebrow, in practical terms, it’s like having a clear line of sight through a high-end optic.

In my experience, whether I’m squeezing off rounds at the range or transitioning between indoor and outdoor settings, the XPS3-0’s glass clarity has been a game-changer. I don’t just see my targets; I see them with an unprecedented level of detail. It’s like upgrading from standard definition to 4K—it makes a difference.

Shootability is where the XPS3-0 really shines.That 1 MOA dot—it’s not just a dot; it’s a laser pointer for your bullets. I can’t stress enough how it transforms your AR-15 into a precision instrument. Quick target acquisition becomes second nature, like your rifle has a sixth sense. The square lens offers a huge field of view, a significant advantage over round lenses like those found on Aimpoints and Trijicons. Throw a magnifier in front and it becomes a rifle scope.

And then there’s that 65 MOA ring around the reticle. It’s not just there for show; it’s like having a bullseye spotlight guiding your aim. Trust me, whether you’re into recreational shooting or just showing off at the range (guilty as charged), the XPS3-0 turns every session into a masterclass in marksmanship.

I vividly remember the first time I took it out to the range after mounting it. Zeroing in was a breeze, and as I transitioned between targets, it felt like my AR-15 had undergone a transformation. It wasn’t just a rifle; it was a precision instrument, and I was the maestro orchestrating each shot with finesse.

Okay, durability check. I’ve seen videos of this thing taking a 9mm hit and still working fine. My personal experience aligns with this toughness. Since day one, my optic hasn’t budged from zero.

The smart move of snuggling the battery and electronics close to the rifle is like a protective shield. It’s not just about looking cool (which it does), but it’s a practical design choice. In the heat of the moment, you don’t want delicate components exposed; you want them tucked in, ready to weather the storm.

Final thoughts on EOTech XPS3-0 

In wrapping up my journey with the EOTech XPS3, there’s no denying its prowess as a tactical marvel. The 1 MOA dot, the 65 MOA ring, and the night vision compatibility make it a force to be reckoned with. The rugged construction, unwavering zero, and unlimited eye relief add layers to its appeal. 

However, like every hero, it has its kryptonite—the battery life. At 600 hours, it falls behind the marathon runners in the optics world. For this reason, I ranked it 4th place in my article about the best optics for AR-15–you can read it here. Yet, in the crucible of real-world scenarios, where speed, precision, and adaptability matter, the XPS3 shines. It’s a reliable companion that transforms your AR-15 into a precision instrument, ready for any mission. If you’ve got a steady supply of batteries, this holographic sight is your ticket to tactical supremacy.

EOTech XPS3-0 Pros and Cons 

FAQ on EOTech XPS3-0

Important Links

• XPS3 by EOTech
• EOTech XPS3 User Manual