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552.A65

The HWS 552 is the most popular night vision-compatible holographic weapon sight offered. The AA battery is available globally making these models a favorite. The mount is compatible with both 1″ Weaver and MIL-STD-1913 rails and includes a hex cross bolt and thumbscrew.

$629.00

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Description

  The Model 552 HOLOgraphic Weapon Sight (HWS) is fully compatible with all generation levels of Night Vision intensifier tubes. A special Night Vision (NV) setting allows the operator to immediately drop the brightness intensity of the holographic reticle to eliminate any “halo” effect while viewing through an image intensifier tube. The Model 552 can be positioned in tandem behind Night Vision intensifiers without any “bloom” of the target area. Now, operators can combine the proven Night Vision technological advantage with a superior close quarters weapon optic to achieve greatly enhanced weapon aiming – in complete darkness.

  Unlike active IR laser pointer systems, the HWS is a passive system and emits no muzzle-side signature. While in the NV mode, the HWS is not detectable by enemy night vision surveillance systems, providing operators with a stealth means for effective nighttime weapon aiming. All optical surfaces are flat and treated with anti-reflective coatings eliminating additional muzzle side signature due to reflective glare. No need for costly glare elimination filters that reduce the effective light transmission and further dim the target area. The projected reticle pattern is only visible to the operator.

  The Model 552’s unique switch allows the operator to instantly drop the holographic reticle brightness to the NV mode of operation. The operator has the ability to toggle back and forth between the NV mode and the normal day/night operation within fractions of a second. The Model 552 has 10 distinct Night Vision settings to provide maximum flexibility to the operator. Typically 3 to 4 brightness settings are not enough to support a host of constantly changing conditions including manufacturing variances in the sensitivities of the image intensifier tubes, varying ambient environments, and varying light gathering sensitivities of the human eye across users. The Model 552 still maintains the 20 normal brightness settings for normal day/night operations.

Made in USA

Night Vision Compatibility: Yes

If you like this model but do not need night vision-compatibility, look at the 512.A65.

Includes:

  • HWS 552
  • Quick-Start Guide
  • Warranty Card
  • 2x AA Alkaline Batteries
  • Protective Case
Models:
  • 552.A65 Reticle is a 65MOA circle with 1 MOA Aiming Dot
  • 552.XR308 Ballistic Reticle is a Semi-Crosshair with Ranging Dots for .308 cal

Specifications:

  • Button Position: Back of Optic
  • L x W x H:  5.6″ x 2″ x 2.5″ (142.2 x 50.8 x 63.5 mm)
  • Weight:  11.5 oz (326 g)
  • Water Resistant:  33ft. (10 m) depth
  • Mount:  1″ Weaver or MIL-STD-1913 rail
  • Windage & Elevation Adjustment:  0.5 MOA per click
  • Button Location: Back
  • Brightness:  20 daylight settings  &  10 additional settings for Gen I through III+ night vision devices
  • Power Source:  2 x 1.5 V AA batteries – Supports lithium, alkaline or rechargable
  • Operating Temperature:  -40°F to 140°F (-40°C to 60°C)
  • Battery Life:

-Lithium: 2,500 continuous hours at nominal setting 12 at room temperature
-Alkaline: 2,200 continuous hours at nominal setting 12 at room temperature

General Information

This manual is an overview of the 552 HWS (Holographic Weapon Sight), and will define the basic operation, features/benefits, and options of this proprietary optical system. The HWS is a state of-the-art optical sighting system, employing holo–graphic sighting technology for small to medium caliber weaponry and launching type platforms. The HWS utilizes holographic optics fabrication technology that is used in the production of advanced heads up display in attack fighter aircraft for targeting, gauge reading, weapon system verification, etc. L-3 EOTech has miniaturized the sophisticated sighting heads up display system into a compact and rugged package for use on small arms and other weapon platforms.
Key Attributes

The 552 HWS is a lightweight, non-magnifying, optical sight designed for close to mid-range engagements. It allows very fast target acquisition and engagement at short ranges while providing aiming capability out to 300 meters equal to or better than iron sights. The major combat advantage of the HWS is extremely rapid reticle-on-target acquisition. As quickly as a target is identified, the holographic reticle can be superimposed on the target. The sight allows operators to maintain eye contact on the target and to place the holographic reticle onto the target without shifting focus. Operators can quickly acquire the target and reticle in the same focal plane for fast and accurate shot placement. The HWS appears to project the holographic image of a reticle on the target plane. The sight can be used as a bright open reticle image or a fine dot which is limited only by the acuity of the shooter’s eye. The heads up display window allows an undistorted and unrestricted view of the target. The 552 is offered with one of the following (2) reticle options:
          • 0 – 68 minute ring with vertical and horizontal stadia and a 1 MOA aiming dot.
          • XR308- Ballistic reticle pattern for a .308 cal using 150gr M59 FMJ at roughly 2,800 fps using a 24.8″ barrel
The HWS offers extremely fast target acquisition in Close Quarter Battle (CQB) using the large ring, and aiming precision in longer range engagements (using the MOA Dot) without obscuring the target. Another advantage of the HWS is the full field of view which allows the operator better situational awareness. The HWS employs a true heads up display (HUD) window that eliminates blind spots and constricted or tunnel vision associated with scope sights. Controls are inset into the HWS housing with no protruding knobs, battery compartments, or rings obscuring the target. Utilizing natural binocular vision is an advantage of this sighting system, as well as additional threat identification through increased operator situational awareness and peripheral vision. The 552 can operate in tandem with Generation I – III+ night vision intensifier tubes. Operators can see the holographic reticle image with helmet mounted or weapon mounted night vision devices. The HWS is a passive system and emits no signature from frontal or from a peripheral aspect. While in the NV mode, the sight is undetectable by opposing force night vision equipment. The HWS can be positioned behind night vision systems without any “bloom” on the target area.

The primary use of the HWS is for the M4A1 carbine and CQBR in Close Quarters Battle. The HWS is not however, limited to carbines. The HWS can also be used on medium caliber machine guns, grenade launchers, bolt guns, crossbows, and less than lethal projectile launchers. The sight provides a 1X (no magnification) sight picture and is not designed as a long range sight system, however, it can be used as effectively as iron sights on targets to 300 meters. The advantage of the HWS is that it provides the operator superior shooting performance, rapid reticle-on-target acquisition, full field of view and accurate shot placement. The HWS can be naturally employed by all levels of users, from novice to the most highly trained operator.
          0 – 68MOA circle with quadrant ticks with 1 MOA aiming dot
          XR308 – (4) ballistic aiming dots designed around .308 caliber round
Location and Description of Major Components
Hood

The HWS is equipped with a protective hood. This hood is pre-assembled at the factory. Should your hood require repair or replacement, please contact your unit armorer for repair, replacement, or contact the manufacturer (L-3 EOTech) for repair or replacement.
Battery

Two initially supplied (2) AA alkaline batteries power the 552 HWS. The HWS is designed to maintain constant brightness at a particular setting as the battery drains down. The reticle brightness will not fade gradually as the battery runs down, but rather, shut down abruptly. The first indication of the battery draining is the reticle blinking when the unit is turned on. Another indication of a low battery is the reticle pattern blinking off and on during recoil. With high recoil guns, this can occur before the battery check indicates low battery condition. If the reticle pattern blinks off and on during recoil or turns off suddenly, replace the battery. Please read and follow the battery replacement and battery check procedures described in this Manual. It is always good practice to replace the battery with a fresh one before a mission.

Alkaline batteries from different manufacturers are not all constructed the same way. Tests show some brands are more susceptible to degradation by the shock of recoil. We recommend the use of Energizer batteries with the HWS. Lithium AA batteries offer longer life, particularly at temperatures below freezing. For this reason Lithium AA batteries are recommended for cold weather operations. However, it should be noted that the battery checking function, which is based on the characteristics of alkaline batteries, does not operate properly when Lithium AA batteries are used in the model 552 and may not indicate a low battery condition until very little battery life is left.

 

Replacing the Batteries

Remove the battery compartment by lifting up on the locking cam lever and carefully sliding the battery compartment away and up from the sight housing. After the battery compartment is removed, slide the batteries out and replace them with a fresh set. The labels on the bottom of battery compartment show the correct battery orientation. Always make sure the gasket is free of dirt before the battery compartment is reinstalled or the seal may be compromised. To reinstall the battery compartment, point the sight towards the ground and slide battery compartment onto base. Make sure there is enough clearance between the contact and the batteries to avoid bending the contacts. Hold the battery compartment down firmly against the base and close the locking cam.Before you push down on cam lever, make sure the battery compartment sits all the way down and is parallel to the base. Verify correct battery installation immediately by turning on the sight and checking if the holographic reticle appears. If the batteries are left in the sight backwards, they will be drained of their power.
Windage and Elevation Adjustment

CAUTION – When encountering an increase in resistance in adjustments, the end of the adjustment range has been reached. DO NOT turn the adjustments any farther, serious damage may occur to the sight.

Preventive Maintenance Checks and Services (PMCS)

OPERATOR LEVEL MAINTENANCE
The operator is limited to replacing batteries and cleaning the battery compartment and outer housing surfaces of the sight.
REPLACING BATTERY
See the heading ‘Replacing Batteries’ under section Description of Components, Controls, and Indicators. Do not use deteriorated or corroded batteries. Inspect batteries for rips, tears, or cuts in the housing. If there is any exposed, internal content of the battery, it could potentially effect the operation of the sight.
OPERATOR CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS
1. The optical system and the window are coated with anti-reflection material. When cleaning the glass surfaces, first blow away any dirt and dust. Fingerprints and lubricants can be wiped off with lens tissue or a soft cotton cloth, moistened with lens cleaning fluid or glass cleaner sold
in any camera store. Never clean the glass surface with a dry cloth or paper towel; always
dampen the glass surfaces prior to cleaning.
2. No maintenance is needed on the sight’s surface, except to occasionally wipe off with a soft cloth. Use only a water-based cleaner such as glass cleaner, ammonia, or soap and water. Never use any solvent-type cleaner such as alcohol or acetone. Do not use gun cleaner to clean or lubricate the HWS.
3. All moving parts of the sight are permanently lubricated. Do not try to lubricate them.
4. Never disassemble the sight’s optical assembly! The optical cavity is purged, nitrogen filled, and sealed to achieve fog resistant performance. Disassembly will void the warranty and damage the sight