Introduction
Last year, Aimpoint expanded their Comp series with the CompM5S model. It is basically the same as the original CompM5 but has a low battery compartment. Some claim that having such a battery compartment obstructs less view, while others argue that is just a matter of personal preference. Anyhow, at this year’s Shot Show (2020), Aimpoint added another device to this popular series – CompM5B.
New features
Changes to the battery compartment have been made yet again. It is still positioned low, like on CompM5S, but has been moved to the other (left) side. An AAA-battery compartment takes up quite some space, which is why it is important to place it in a position where it is least in the way. Even though this compartment is bulky, we are great fans of the AAA-battery’s 5-year (50.000 hours) battery life (at illumination intensity level 7).
The most notable upgrade, and the main feature of the M5B model, are the turrets. ‘B’ in the device’s name stands for ballistic. When you purchase this device, you get caliber-specific turrets to facilitate windage and elevation adjustments. The turrets are interchangeable, meaning that this red dot sight is perfect if you are planning on using it on rifles of different calibers. If you switch between rifles, simply replace the turret with the one suitable for the new calibre. Aimpoint is going to be making these turrets for the most popular, common calibers – some of them (5–6) will be included in the box. If you have a calibre that is not as popular, the turret can be tailor-made for its bullet drop. This all-new feature will be especially handy if you are planning on combining the red dot with an Aimpoint 3XMag-1 or 6xMag-1 magnifier (or any other magnifier). The turrets on M5B can be adjusted with fingers, which is something we haven’t seen in Aimpoint devices before.
General properties
The CompM5B is one of the most rugged, robust red dot sights currently on the market. It is of the small tube type, made from the high-strength aluminium. The turrets are shrouded for extra ruggedness, and the front lens is well-protected from impact. The well-defined 2 MOA dot allows accurate shooting with minimal obstruction of the target. It comes with flip-up caps for the lenses, and a QD Picatinny mount for swift attachment and removal. Because of its sturdy design it is no surprise that it can withstand the recoil of all calibers and be submerged in 45 m of water depth. Furthermore, it continues to operate in extreme temperatures (from –45 °C to 71 °C). Underneath the included Micro LRP mount there is the standard, Aimpoint Micro mounting platform.
There are 10 illumination intensity levels to choose from, the lowest four of which are NV compatible. The highest can be used in strong daytime brightness without problems. The true 1x magnification makes it comfortable for the user to look through the device with both eyes open. The image is clear and without tint. The eye-relief is unlimited.
Conclusion
Aimpoint is still a synonym for quality in the field of red dot sights. Their devices remain a benchmark in the industry. It is refreshing to see the introduction of something new – we like the finger-adjustable, interchangeable turrets on CompM5B. We haven’t learned what the price is going to be for the European market yet, but we estimate that it is going to be around the 1000 € Euro mark (In the US, it is going to retail for 1124 $). We were told that they are going to be available in Autumn 2020.
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