1. Optics
When I joined the Marines and hit my company as a rifleman, optics were still not standard fleetwide (but we were getting there, we had TA31’s on within a year). The RCO was chosen on ’04 but still being fielded along with the rest of the cool toys like PEQ15/16s.
The TA31 RCO’s and then later the TA11 SDO (Squad Day Optic) made a world of difference for Marines. But improvements have been made as knowledge has been gained and a new RCO model has been rolled out to take advantage of better reticle design.
The TA11H-G with the highly user friendly horseshoe reticle is one of two valid the optical choices (SDO). Range, durability, and minimally manipulative use are the hallmarks of the ACOG, shortening the optical learning curve and training time. The current TA31 RCO equally suits this rifle. A TA31 ACSS would work well too but isn’t an NSN’d item.
The ACOG remains the standard, with LPVO’s being an up and coming option requiring a steeper learning curve in exchange for greater utility. A flip up rear sight and fixed post front still have merit too with irons being a final emergency option, optics are reaching durability levels where this concern is lessening.
2. Lights
You need lumens.
If the rifle is meant for fighting, and fighting rifles mandate positive target identification, you need a light. I have a Streamlight Rail Mount HL-X on the rifle currently but a Surefire Scout or any suitably durable light with 500+ lumens and a good throw pattern can fill this role.
Positively identifying a target is crucial. You need a light.
