EOTech 556 - Manual (Page 4)

1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 General Information
This manual describes the basic operation, features, benefits, and use of the L-3 Eotech
557.AR223 Holographic Weapon Sight. The sight utilizes a proprietary optical system which
employs holographic sighting technology for small to medium caliber weaponry and launching
type platforms. The sight incorporates holographic optics technology such as that used to
produce advanced heads-up displays in attack fighter aircraft for targeting, gauge reading,
weapon system verification, etc. L-3 EOTech has miniaturized a similar heads-up display system
into a compact and rugged package for use on small arms and other weapon platforms. The
sight type is commonly referred to as a reflex sight.
1.2 Key Attributes
• The 557.AR223 reflex sight is a lightweight, non-magnifying, optical sight designed for
Close Quarter Battle. It allows very fast target acquisition and engagement at short range
while providing aiming capability out to 300 meters equal to or better than iron sights.
The sight can, however, be used in conjunction with an L-3 Eotech Optical Magnifier.
When an Optical Magnifier is used, the effective range is extended to 600 meters. By
utilizing the aim point indicators of the AR223 Ballistic Reticle (Figure
1 ), high accuracy
placement of rounds can be achieved.
Figure 2: AR223 Ballistic Reticle
•
The major combat advantage of the reflex sight 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 eye focus.
• An Operator can quickly acquire the target and reticle in the same focal plane for fast and
accurate shot placement.
• The 557.AR223 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 reticle is parallax free and the holographic heads-up
display window allows an undistorted and unrestricted view of the target.
• The 557.AR223 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 array) without obscuring the target.
• An advantage of the 557.AR223 is the full field of view which allows the operator better
situational awareness. The sight’s true heads-up display window eliminates blind spots
and constricted or tunnel vision associated with scope sights. Controls are inset into the
Reflex Sight housing with no protruding knobs, battery compartments, or rings that would