Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Aimpoint CompM4

The Aimpoint CompM4 is a non-magnified reflex sight renowned for its rugged construction and reliability in demanding environments, featuring a 2 for rapid and precise aiming on firearms such as and carbines. Developed by the Swedish optics manufacturer , the CompM4 was introduced in and represents the latest iteration in the Comp series, which originated in 1997 with the original CompM selected for the U.S. military's first contract, marking a in non-magnified optic adoption for . Officially designated as the M68 Optic () by the U.S. Armed Forces, the CompM4 has been in continuous service since 2009 and serves as the standard sight in numerous countries, with having produced over 1.5 million units of the broader Comp series for military and use worldwide (as of 2023). Key specifications include unlimited eye relief, a 1x , and an height of 39 mm when mounted with its standard spacer and LRP or QRP2 mount, enabling seamless integration with weapons like the . Powered by a single , it delivers up to 80,000 hours of operation in daylight settings or 500,000 hours in night vision mode, supported by enhanced ACET™ technology for consistent performance, along with 9 daylight brightness levels and 7 night vision-compatible settings. The sight's housing is constructed from high-strength aluminum, measuring 135 × 75 × 82 mm (5.3 × 3.0 × 3.2 inches) with mount and weighing 9.4 ounces (sight only), while offering waterproofing to 45 meters (150 feet), resilience, and operation in temperatures from -49°F to 160°F. Additional features include parallax-free for accurate aiming regardless of eye position, a killFlash® anti-reflection to reduce glare in , rubber covers, and with magnifiers like the 3XMag-1 for extended-range versatility, all backed by Aimpoint's lifetime . Combat-proven and soldier-tested, the CompM4 exemplifies Aimpoint's commitment to durability, having endured extreme field conditions without failure in military operations.

Introduction

Overview

The Aimpoint CompM4 is a non-magnified, tubed red dot reflex sight that employs LED technology to project a 2 MOA red aiming dot for precise targeting. This design allows for parallax-free operation, enabling shooters to maintain an unlimited field of view without the need to fully close one eye. It is primarily used in and rapid scenarios, mounting on firearms such as rifles and carbines via standard Picatinny rails. The sight emphasizes a "both eyes open" sighting method, which enhances by allowing users to perceive their surroundings while aligning the dot with the target. Additionally, it offers compatibility with first-, second-, and third-generation devices for low-light operations. As the successor to the , the CompM4 represents an advanced iteration in the series, incorporating improved durability while retaining core accuracy features. It has been adopted by the U.S. Armed Forces as the M68 Optic (CCO), serving as a standard issue for infantry applications. The model is powered by a single , providing exceptional longevity exceeding of continuous use.

Development History

Aimpoint AB was founded in in 1975 by engineer John Arne Ingemund Ekstrand, initially focusing on developing sighting aids for hunting and sport shooting to enhance accuracy on moving targets. The company's early product line evolved from the inaugural Electronic red dot sight, introduced in 1975, toward more rugged military applications with the Comp series in the 1990s. This progression culminated in 1997 when the U.S. Army selected the as the M68 Close Combat Optic, marking Aimpoint's first major military contract and establishing the Comp series as a standard for non-magnifying reflex sights in . The series continued with the CompM3, which was also designated as an M68 . Building on the CompM2's and CompM3's success, the U.S. Army chose the Aimpoint CompM4s in as its successor under the ongoing M68 program, awarding an initial contract for 565,783 units to meet demands for improved reliability in operational environments. This selection reflected Aimpoint's iterative advancements in technology tailored to military needs. In 2017, the U.S. Army placed an additional order for 30,000 CompM4s sights, further solidifying its role in equipping forces. Key design improvements in the CompM4 over predecessors like the CompM2 included integration of a single for extended power efficiency and enhanced compatibility with devices, driven by military requirements for durability and performance in harsh conditions such as extreme temperatures and rough handling.

Design and Features

Optical System

The Aimpoint CompM4 employs a tubed design that utilizes a (LED) to generate a , projected onto a partially reflective for non-magnifying 1X . This configuration enables the "both eyes open" sighting principle, allowing users to maintain and achieve rapid without the tunnel vision associated with traditional scope sighting. The system is engineered for precise aiming across a wide , with the dot remaining superimposed on the target regardless of head position. The features a 2 red dot, optimized for accuracy in close- to medium-range engagements, and is adjustable across 16 brightness levels to suit varying lighting conditions—comprising 9 settings for daylight visibility and 7 dedicated modes for compatibility with devices. The LED is totally eye-safe, ensuring no risk of ocular damage even during prolonged use. This adjustability enhances visibility in diverse environments, from bright to low-light scenarios. The CompM4 offers unlimited eye relief and is operationally parallax-free, meaning the dot stays aligned with the point of impact irrespective of eye placement behind the sight, facilitating intuitive and consistent aiming. It is fully compatible with all generations of devices (Gen 1 through Gen 4), with the lower brightness settings minimizing bloom and glare under passive image intensification. The optical system is to a depth of 45 meters (150 feet).

Construction and Durability

The Aimpoint CompM4 features a housing constructed from extruded high-strength aluminum alloy, providing a robust foundation for its internal components. This material is hard-anodized to create a black finish that enhances resistance while minimizing for reduced visibility in tactical environments. The sight includes a standard quick-release mount, such as the QRP2 or LRP, designed for to MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rails. These mounts incorporate a keyed base that integrates directly with the sight body to absorb forces, ensuring during operation. A co-witness spacer is also provided, raising the sight by approximately 9 mm to align with standard on platforms like the , facilitating seamless integration without compromising the overall mounting system. Durability is a core attribute of the CompM4, with the unit fully submersible to 45 meters (150 feet). It operates reliably across temperatures from -45°C to +71°C (-49°F to +160°F), supporting in harsh environmental conditions. An optional killFlash anti-reflection (ARD) threads onto the front to further reduce and signature, enhancing its suitability for reliability.

Technical Specifications

Dimensions and Weight

The Aimpoint CompM4 reflex sight features compact dimensions optimized for mounting on a variety of firearms while maintaining a low profile. The sight body measures 120 mm (4.7 in) in length, 53 mm (2.1 in) in width, and 60 mm (2.4 in) in height. Weighing 265 g (9.3 oz) without , the unit adds minimal mass to the host weapon; with the standard mount, this increases to 335 g (11.8 oz), and including the AA , the sight alone weighs approximately 268 g (9.4 oz). Its 30 mm tube diameter contributes to the low-profile design, enabling secure attachment to Picatinny rails without significantly raising the optic's height above the bore. Relative to the predecessor CompM2, which measures 130 mm (5.1 in) in length and approximately 55 mm (2.2 in) in both width and height, the CompM4 offers a more streamlined with reduced overall length and refined proportions for improved , including better cheek weld compatibility when mounted.

Battery and Power

The Aimpoint CompM4 is powered by a single , compatible with alkaline, lithium, or rechargeable types operating within a voltage range of 1.2 to 5 volts. This design powers the integral LED emitter, enabling the red dot without requiring specialized batteries. Battery life exceeds —equivalent to over eight years—of continuous operation at the medium daylight brightness setting (position 12 out of 16). In night vision compatibility modes, which utilize lower power draw for compatibility with intensifiers, lifespan extends dramatically to over 500,000 hours at position 4. These figures assume standard environmental conditions, such as and 15,000 illumination. Aimpoint's ACET (Advanced Circuit Efficiency Technology) optimizes energy consumption in the CompM4's , achieving this extended runtime without compromising brightness or sighting performance. The technology regulates internal voltage and minimizes power waste, supporting always-on operation ideal for tactical scenarios. The CompM4 features a top-mounted (high) compartment for straightforward access during field changes, while the CompM4s variant employs a side-mounted (low) design that reduces profile but may require more effort in certain mounting configurations. Brightness settings integrate with power management to balance visibility and efficiency, though full details on optical adjustments appear in the design section.

Performance Characteristics

The Aimpoint CompM4 demonstrates exceptional environmental resilience, capable of submersion to 45 meters (150 feet) for 30 minutes while maintaining operational integrity, and its internal optics are fog-proof through purging to prevent under varying levels. This design ensures reliable performance in wet or foggy conditions without compromising visibility or zero retention. The sight operates effectively across a wide temperature range of -45°C to +71°C (-49°F to +160°F) and can withstand storage temperatures from -51°C to +71°C (-60°F to +160°F), allowing deployment in extreme climates from cold to heat without functional degradation. These tolerances support consistent functionality during prolonged exposure to harsh environmental stresses, as verified through standardized testing protocols. In terms of accuracy, the CompM4 exhibits sub-MOA point of shift even after rounds of firing, and it reliably returns to zero following drops from operational heights, underscoring its mechanical stability under and . This precision is achieved through robust internal components that minimize and maintain alignment, contributing to enhanced hit probability in dynamic scenarios. The CompM4 ensures the 2 MOA remains crisp and unobscured in full sunlight on its highest intensity setting, while offering infinite compatibility across all generations without bloom or flare interference. These optical performance attributes, combined with adjustable brightness levels, enable seamless transitions between day and low-light operations.

Variants

CompM4

The Aimpoint CompM4 serves as the standard model in the CompM4 series of red dot reflex sights, distinguished by its high-mounted battery compartment that facilitates quick and easy battery access even when the sight is mounted on a . This configuration is particularly advantageous for users in dynamic operational environments where rapid maintenance is essential without dismounting the optic. The sight comes equipped with the QRP2 quick-release Picatinny mount and a standard spacer, enabling absolute co-witness alignment with on host platforms. This setup ensures seamless integration and reliable zero retention during transport and handling. Optimized primarily for military rifles such as the , the CompM4 functions as the U.S. Army's M68 Optic (CCO), supporting close-quarters engagements with its baseline 2 red dot reticle for precise . It is procured under NSN 1240-01-551-5762, reflecting its standardized role in U.S. military inventories. The optic provides 16 total brightness settings, including 7 compatible with devices and 9 for daylight conditions, allowing adaptability across varying lighting scenarios. In contrast to the CompM4s variant, which employs a low-profile battery placement for specialized mounting, the CompM4's design emphasizes general utility with its elevated compartment for straightforward servicing. It shares core optical features, such as unlimited eye relief and parallax-free performance, with other models in the series.

CompM4s

The CompM4s is a specialized variant of the CompM4 , designed primarily to address mounting constraints in tactical environments by featuring a low-mounted compartment that lowers the overall optical height compared to the standard model's top-mounted design. This modification enhances with suppressors and low-profile Picatinny rails, allowing for a more streamlined setup without compromising sight alignment or functionality. The is accessed via a bottom-mounted knob and cap, facilitating quick changes while maintaining the sight's waterproof integrity up to 45 meters. Despite these adaptations, the CompM4s retains identical optical performance to the base CompM4, including a 2 red dot for precise and unlimited eye relief, powered by a single that delivers up to 80,000 hours of continuous operation at medium brightness settings. It supports the LRP (Lever Release Picatinny) mount as an option, providing secure, tool-free attachment to MIL-STD-1913 rails, alongside compatibility with devices across all generations. The sight shares the same robust construction as the CompM4, ensuring durability under extreme conditions such as temperatures from -45°C to +71°C and high-impact shocks. The low battery compartment design was developed at the request of operators seeking the lowest possible mounting height, and the CompM4s serves as a sight in many countries. In 2023, the U.S. awarded a five-year valued at $4 million for CompM4s units as part of their sights program, highlighting its suitability for applications requiring reliable, low-profile optics.

Operational Use

Military Adoption

The CompM4s was selected by the U.S. Army in 2009 as the standard sight for the M68 Optic () program following an extensive process, resulting in an initial for 565,783 units. This adoption extended across the U.S. Armed Forces, including and Forces, with the sight equipping personnel for close-quarters engagements on primary weapon platforms such as the M4A1 carbine, , and M249 . The CompM4's design facilitates rapid through its unlimited eye relief and both-eyes-open aiming method, enhancing in dynamic combat environments up to 300 meters. Military training programs for the CompM4 emphasize quick zeroing procedures and seamless integration with backup , ensuring operational reliability if the optic fails or during . U.S. forces conduct familiarization drills focusing on these aspects to maintain proficiency in scenarios, where the sight's parallax-free supports instinctive pointing without precise cheek weld alignment. Internationally, the CompM4 has been adopted by several allies, including the as a standard for their HK416 rifles. The integrated it into their soldier modernization efforts under the program, pairing it with FN SCAR-L STD assault rifles and 5.56 mm MINIMI Mk3 machine guns for enhanced aiming in dismounted operations. Similarly, the Canadian Armed Forces employ the CompM4 on upgraded C7 rifles, replacing earlier optical systems to improve close-range accuracy and compatibility with devices. These adoptions reflect the sight's proven durability and interoperability in multinational exercises and deployments.

Law Enforcement and Civilian Applications

In 2023, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) selected the Aimpoint CompM4s variant as part of its Red Dot Sights and Mounts Program, awarding a five-year contract valued at approximately $11 million for the supply of these optics and compatible mounting systems to enhance agent marksmanship in rifle applications. Deliveries of the CompM4s to the FBI commenced by the end of 2023, supporting standardized training and deployment across field offices. The CompM4 series has seen extensive adoption by U.S. and international law enforcement agencies, particularly for specialized operations such as entries, patrol rifle configurations, and defensive scenarios including home defense training. For instance, the Department procured nearly 3,800 CompM4 units in 2018 to equip tactical teams, valuing the sight's ruggedness for urban environments. Its reliability in low-light conditions and extended battery life make it suitable for high-stakes engagements where quick target acquisition is essential. In civilian contexts, the CompM4 is popular for competitive shooting disciplines like 3-gun matches, hunting rifles, and personal protection setups, appreciated for its simplicity and ability to maintain zero under and environmental . It integrates seamlessly with AR-15 platforms common in the U.S. civilian market, often mounted via quick-release systems for versatile use in dynamic or defensive roles. offers verified discounts on CompM4 purchases for qualified and military personnel, including active-duty and retired members, to facilitate broader access in professional and personal applications.

References

  1. [1]
    Aimpoint® Comp™ Series: Advanced Red Dots for Tough Conditions
    ### Summary of Comp Series History (Focus on CompM4)
  2. [2]
    CompM4 and CompM4S Sights - Army Technology
    Aimpoint CompM4 and CompM4s sights both include enhanced ACET technology that provides up to eight years of continuous use from a single AA battery!
  3. [3]
    Comp® M4 Red Dot Reflex Sight - QRP2 Mount
    ### Technical Specifications (Optical System)
  4. [4]
    https://www.tnvc.com/shop/aimpoint-comp-m4/
  5. [5]
    Aimpoint CompM4 — The Pinnacle of Red Dots - The Shooter's Log
    Jun 12, 2023 · The Aimpoint CompM4 is a reliable, long-used red dot sight with a 2 MOA dot, excellent lens clarity, long battery life, and is waterproof and ...
  6. [6]
    Red dot reflex sight with standard spacer and LRP mount - Aimpoint
    The Comp M4 has 80,000 hour battery life, is submersible to 45m, has a 2 MOA dot, 7 night vision settings, and is used by the U.S. Army. It includes a LRP ...
  7. [7]
    Comp™ M4 2 MOA - Red dot reflex sight with standard spacer and ...
    The COMP M4 comes with a rubber bikini lens cover and the killFlash® anti-reflection device (ARD) to prevent glint from the front lens in the heat of battle.Missing: features | Show results with:features<|separator|>
  8. [8]
    [PDF] Aimpoint - CompM4s
    These optics are extremely rugged and operate continuously for up to 8 years using a single AA battery. The competition is not even close. The. Aimpoint CompM4s ...Missing: military | Show results with:military
  9. [9]
    [PDF] CompM4s - ARMED.cz
    The Aimpoint CompM4s sight is soldier tested and combat-proven, in other words an extremely robust high quality product. KEY. FEATURES. CompM4s™. 2 MOA dot size.
  10. [10]
    AIMPOINT® COMPM4S - AGM Global Vision
    The Aimpoint® CompM4 series of sights are the toughest sights that Aimpoint has ever produced and they are the standard infantry soldier sight in many NATO ...Missing: military | Show results with:military
  11. [11]
    [PDF] CompM4 - Scopelist.com
    Features of CompM4™ sights. • Sight designed for day and night use. • 7 NVD settings for compatibility with all. NVD. • 16 switch position with more ...Missing: military | Show results with:military
  12. [12]
    https://www.scopelist.com/PDF/aimpoint-CompM4s-Product-Sheet.pdf
  13. [13]
    [PDF] Aimpoint CompM4 M68 CCO
    CHAPTER I. 1.1 PRESENTATION. Aimpoint CompM4 Reflex Sight is a rugged precision red dot Sight developed mainly for military and law enforcement applications ...Missing: fourth | Show results with:fourth
  14. [14]
    Berlin Police places contract with Aimpoint | Aimpoint
    The CompM4 sight relies on a single AA battery to provide a 'constant on' of up to 80,000 hours or 8 years. Currently, more than 1,500,000 Aimpoint® sights are ...
  15. [15]
    Our history - Aimpoint
    Aimpoint was founded in Sweden in 1975. It all started when a sport shooter and a hunter wanted to improve their accuracy on moving targets.
  16. [16]
    https://www.aimpoint.com/about-us/our-history/
  17. [17]
    Aimpoint Combat Sights - On Target Magazine
    While the original U.S. Military M68 CCO was the Aimpoint CompM XD with 100,000 optics issued in 1997, the Aimpoint CompM2 is the optic that is best known as ...
  18. [18]
    US Army Chooses Aimpoint COMPM4S - RifleShooter
    A ruggedized switch knob has been integrated as part of the battery compartment housing and features 7 night vision compatible settings and 9 daylight settings.Missing: specifications | Show results with:specifications
  19. [19]
    Aimpoint Receives US Army Contract for Optical Sights
    Mar 23, 2017 · Manassas, VA – March 22, 2017 – Aimpoint, the worldwide leader in reflex sight technology, has been awarded a contract for supply of 30,000 ...Missing: additional | Show results with:additional
  20. [20]
    Aimpoint CompM2 Review | Combat Optics Reviews
    Dec 24, 2010 · The M68 is now being replaced by the Aimpoint CompM4s, also known as the M68. Aimpoint Comp M2 with 'Coyote' coloured cover. Ultimately ...Missing: successor | Show results with:successor
  21. [21]
    https://combatopticsreviews.com/aimpoint-compm2-review/
  22. [22]
    https://aimpoint.us/comp-m4-red-dot-reflex-sight-no-mount/
  23. [23]
    https://tnvc.com/shop/aimpoint-comp-m4/
  24. [24]
    NSN: 1240-01-551-5762 ($1531.22, Sight, Reflex, Collimator, M68 ...
    1240-01-551-5762 Nomenclature: Sight, Reflex, Collimator, M68 Close Combat Optic (CCO) (Aimpoint CompM4 / 11972) Buy Now -- $1531.22
  25. [25]
    Comp™ M4s 2 MOA - Red dot reflex sight with standard spacer and ...
    The Comp M4s has 80,000 hour battery life, 2 MOA dot, 7 night vision settings, 9 daylight settings, 39mm optical axis, and is submersible to 45m. It includes ...
  26. [26]
    https://www.opticsplanet.com/i/pdf/opplanet-aimpoint-11972-manual-pdf.pdf
  27. [27]
    FBI selects the Aimpoint Duty RDS red dot sight and procures ...
    Feb 25, 2024 · FBI buys Aimpoint Duty RDS sights for 7 million euros + additional Aimpoint CompM4s for 4 million euros*5-year FBI contract* prices, ...Missing: procurement | Show results with:procurement
  28. [28]
    Aimpoint Supplying Army With 30,000 M68CCOs - Overt Defense -
    Mar 31, 2017 · Aimpoint was very recently awarded a 10 million dollar contract for the delivery of 30,000 M68 Close Combat Optic reflex sights to the U.S. Army ...
  29. [29]
    Portfolio - PM SL - M68 Close Combat Optic (CCO) - PEO Soldier
    The M68 CCO is a red dot sight for M16/M4 rifles, enhancing target acquisition up to 300 meters with both eyes open, and is standard issue.Missing: Aimpoint rapid backup
  30. [30]
    Aimpoint Introduce Modified CompM4 Sight - Army Technology
    All CompM4 sights feature an internal voltage regulator that allows the sights to operate on any AA size battery available worldwide. These sights also feature ...
  31. [31]
    Portuguese Army advances its soldier modernisation effort - Janes
    Mar 24, 2021 · The SCS programme is outfitting Portuguese dismounted soldiers with an array of new equipment. (Victor Barreira). Aimpoint CompM4 red dot ...Missing: international Norwegian
  32. [32]
    Colt Canada C7 - Wikipedia
    The C7 and its variants have been adopted as the standard-issue rifle by the militaries of Canada, Norway (special forces only), Denmark and the Netherlands.
  33. [33]
    Military | Aimpoint
    Aimpoint sights have been soldier tested and combat proven under the most extreme environmental conditions.Missing: CompM4 training acquisition
  34. [34]
    https://www.aimpoint.com/military/
  35. [35]
    FBI Selects Aimpoint Duty RDS and CompM4s
    Value of the agreement for the larger-format CompM4s sights is $4 million. Delivery of both optics has already begun. The Aimpoint Duty RDS is ...Missing: 2024 | Show results with:2024
  36. [36]
    FBI Selects Aimpoint Duty RDS and Aimpoint CompM4s for Rifle ...
    Dec 21, 2023 · ... Aimpoint® CompM4s optics for their Red Dot Sights and Mounts Program. ... Deliveries of both sights to the FBI began at the end of 2023.Missing: adoption | Show results with:adoption
  37. [37]
    Aimpoint chosen by FBI to supply Duty RDS and CompM4s optics ...
    Dec 21, 2023 · Offering a 2 MOA red dot, the CompM4s is powered by a single AA battery for over 80,000 hours (8 years) of continuous use and over 500,000 hours ...Missing: 810 | Show results with:810
  38. [38]
    Berlin Police places contract with Aimpoint
    Aimpoint has been awarded a contract from the Berlin Police to supply nearly 3800 Aimpoint® CompM4 red dot sights. Aimpoint won the contract in an open ...Missing: SWAT teams<|control11|><|separator|>
  39. [39]
    A Versatile Lineup of Aimpoint Sights - Field Ethos
    Jan 13, 2025 · The CompM4 is used by thousands of our soldiers along with thousands more law enforcement officers across the country, so I have a rifle built ...
  40. [40]
    https://www.opticsplanet.com/aimpoint-compm4-red-dot-sight-11972.html
  41. [41]
    Rifle Roundup: Colt 6920 AR-15 With An Aimpoint CompM4 Optic
    Oct 4, 2024 · Rifle Roundup: Colt 6920 AR-15 With An Aimpoint CompM4 Optic. And we're feeding this setup via a Gen 3 Magpul P-Mag with a Ranger Plate.Missing: civilian | Show results with:civilian
  42. [42]
    https://aimpoint.us/le-military-discount