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G&P Aimpoint Replica
Mike Stevens, aka yanks111
Background
The essence of the Aimpoint can be found by separating the name itself into two parts: Aim, and Point. With a red dot, that is all you have to do, aim or point at your target. An Aimpoint is much different from your average optic. With no eye relief, you can look through the sight from any distance, and if you see the red dot on your target, the bullet (or bb) will go there. A special plus to the Aimpoint (and the G&P replica) is that you can shoot accurately with the front lens closed and hit your target if you aim with both eyes open. If you consider yourself to be a sniper or marksman, this is a definite plus in a situation where sunlight would give away your position had it sparked off of the glossy front lens. Aimpoint is known as the originator in red dot sight technology, and continues to perfect it to this day. The Aimpoint is currently in use by the US Air Force, US Army, French Army, Swedish Army and the Italian Army. While the real Aimpoint can withstand harsh temperatures and is waterproof, I wouldn’t be so daring with this G&P replica. This replica can definitely take a beating; if you look at some of my pictures you can see visible scratches from hard falls, and being brushed against foliage. Retailing at $75.00 at Hong Kong Airsoft Shops, this is a steal for those looking to replicate a military firearm, or those airsofters whom do not want to splurge on the real deal.
The G&P Aimpoint Replica consists of five brightness settings, and includes lithium batteries that will last you many hours, depending on the brightness setting. I have used the Aimpoint now for 3 weeks of five hour games on Saturdays, always using the highest brightness, and I have yet to notice any dimming of the dot. I got a hold of the G&P Aimpoint Replica when I spotted an excellent AEG package in the classifieds, and it included the Replica. I already owned the Samurai Aimpoint Replica, and was curious of the quality differences.
Appearance/ Build
Upon arrival of the G&P Aimpoint Replica, I noticed two distinct differences between the Samurai and the G&P. The first difference was the quality in the paintjob. The Samurai Aimpoint has a smooth, glossy black paintjob to it, and when scratched the silver metal really stands out. The G&P has a more rugged paintjob, it feels thicker, and it matte rather than smooth. The second difference between the two was the strap near the adjustment dials. On the Samurai, the strap was a mere two thin wires protruding out, where as on the G&P replica, there is an actual full rubber strap covering the dials. You can see the rubber strap in the pictures below.
The G&P Aimpoint Replica is packed in a nice box, with foam inserts inside cut to fit the sight, mount, and adjustment tool. I was surprised on the size of the box compared the box from the Samurai Aimpoint replica, which fit snugly to the Aimpoint with no padding. These little differences are beginning to make me believe that it is worth spending the $3 more to buy the G&P sight rather than the Samurai. The sight adjustment tool is custom cut to fit into the mount screws, which have six sides. So, unlike the Samurai Aimpoint that requires a special adjustment tool, on the G&P Replica you do not have to worry if you lose the original adjustment tool because a normal Allen wrench will do the trick nicely.
Field Use
The G&P Replica has five levels of brightness, from extremely dim to very bright. I enjoy using the 3rd or 4th brightness for dark wood settings, and the 5th, brightest setting for when there is an excessive amount of sunlight. The G&P Replica is extremely effective at night, and using the 2nd brightness setting gives you a major advantage over those using iron sights.
With the included Quick Detachable mount, the G&P Replica lines up perfectly with the front sight of an M4a1 (or any other Armalite) and clears the front sight of a MP5 and Sig552. While providing an odd look, the Aimpoint Replica lines up with the front sight of an AK-47 when mounted. Overall, the G&P Aimpoint Replica will add that final touch to your gun giving that “Special Forces” appearance that is popular right now among Airsofters.
Pros
· Great looking on almost every airsoft rifle
· 5 levels of brightness
· Quick Detachable Mount with Thumbscrew
· Matte black finish
· Durable flip-up lens covers
· Non foggy lenses, virtually scratch-proof
· Aggressive price of $75
· Excellent Build Quality
Cons
· Lens springs are somewhat weak, possibly can pop out
· Not much else, except that all your friends will want one now too
Conclusion
To conclude, the G&P Aimpoint Replica is an excellent red dot sight for the price of $75 at Hong Kong Retailers. The build quality and packaging are amazing, this replica will definitely last you throughout your skirmishes. Again, unlike other cheap Airsoft replicas, the G&P Aimpoint was definitely made with durability and long lasting strength in mind.
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