Aimpoint
ActiveOverview
Aimpoint AB is a Swedish manufacturer of red dot sights based in Malmö, specializing in non-magnifying reflector sights using LED technology for military, law enforcement, hunters, and sport shooters.124 The company invented the first LED red dot sight in 1975 and supplies products to armed forces worldwide, including the US military's CompM4 and CompM2 under the M68 designation, with nearly 3 million units in use.13 It positions itself in the tactical optics market through emphasis on durability, low power consumption, and both-eyes-open shooting.3
History
Aimpoint was founded in 1974-1975 by Swedish inventor Arne Ekstrand (also referred to as John Arne Ingemund Ekstrand), who conceived the red dot sight idea from a mirror reflection while shaving and prototyped it using a toilet roll.12 In 1975, it introduced the first LED-based 'Aimpoint Electronic' red dot sight.12 The company received its first US Army contract in 1997 for the CompM2, designated M68 Close Combat Optic.1 Aimpoint has produced around 5 million sights and maintains operations as a private entity with investment from Sandberg Development since 1975.3
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Comp Series (military red dot sights) | Close-quarters battle optics | $700 - $1,000 |
| Micro Series (compact red dot sights) | Lightweight firearms and pistols | $400 - $800 |
| Hunter Series (hunting red dot sights) | Hunters and sport shooters | $300 - $600 |
| Magnifier Series (optical magnifiers) | Red dot sight accessories | $200 - $500 |
| Mounts & Accessories | Mounting solutions for sights | $50 - $300 |
Manufacturing
Aimpoint manufactures its red dot sights in Sweden at its Malmö headquarters, as a Swedish optics company focused on in-house production of high-tech optical systems.124 Products emphasize Swedish innovation in LED technology and durability for professional use.3
Notable Products
- CompM4 - US military red dot sight, contractor-supplied for armed forces.
- CompM2 - First US Army red dot contract in 1997, designated M68 CCO.
- Aimpoint Micro H-2 - Compact red dot for hunting and short firearms.
- Aimpoint Electronic (1975) - First LED red dot sight ever manufactured.
- CompM5 - Modern military-grade red dot sight.
Reputation
Aimpoint is regarded by military, law enforcement, and enthusiasts as a pioneer in red dot technology due to its invention of the LED reflex sight and proven reliability in combat, with products selected by US forces and others worldwide.15 Professionals value its ruggedness, long battery life, and accuracy for both-eyes-open shooting.35 Some users note higher prices compared to competitors, though this is attributed to premium build quality.1