This review of the Trijicon 1-6×24 VCOG (Variable Combat Optical Gunsight) takes me back to the core of what shooting with precision truly is. This riflescope is a concoction of rugged versatility, designed to navigate a variety of ranges with a seasoned finesse. Its superior glass quality is merely the tip of the iceberg, hinting at the scope’s underlying ruggedness. Encased in a durable 7075-T6 aircraft-grade alloy tube, the VCOG is more than just a scope, it’s a promise of reliability and I’m going to put it to the test.
My First Impressions
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No matter how many scopes I do unboxings for, it never gets old. While unboxing the Trijicon 1-6×24 VCOG, the first thing that resonated with me was its robust construction. The aircraft-grade alloy housing feels remarkably solid, without being awkwardly heavy. This thing is going to change my rig’s balance for sure, but not by a ton.
Also included was the TA51 Mount, which is a thoughtful addition for quick mounting to any rail system. Ideal for shooters like me who don’t want to spend more time getting their glass mounted and set up than actually using it that first day.
If you are interested in my other reviews have a look at Bushnell Engage 6-24×50 or my article about the best crossbow scopes.
Optics Quality
While I expected a level of excellence, the optics of the Trijicon VCOG are nothing short of remarkable. The quality of this glass really shows the craftsmanship of the manufacturer. The clarity is crisp, and the image sharpness across the field of view is impressive. It’s the kind of optics quality that makes a difference in a critical moment, where a clear sight can be the dividing line between a hit or miss.
In my experience, no matter what conditions you intend to shoot in, you’re going to need a scope with substantial light-gathering abilities. Most hunters fill at least one of their tags in the early light of the day, or the last rays of the evening. The VCOG stands tall here, and the multi-coated lenses provide incredible light transmission even in low-light conditions. This feature was particularly noticeable during a cloudy morning session, where the scope managed to pull in ample light to provide a clear, bright image of the target.
Reticle Performance
The VCOG comes with a bullet drop compensating and ranging reticle, a feature I’ve always loved for its simplicity and raw effectiveness in the field. The reticle is not illuminated, which might be a downside for some, but in my opinion, the clarity of the glass and the well-defined reticle design compensate for this in most situations. The reticle was clear and crisp, and provided a quick and accurate estimation of range, aiding in applying the correct hold.
The first focal plane reticle is a boon, ensuring that the subtensions remain accurate across all magnification ranges. This is particularly useful when transitioning between close-quarter and long-distance shots, since it provides a consistent point of reference for aiming, regardless of the magnification setting.
In my tests, the reticle demonstrated its utility in rapid target acquisition, especially under time-constrained situations. The markings are precise and intuitive, and when engaging targets at various distances, the reticle provides a consistent point of reference, allowing for precise holdovers and windage corrections.
To find out more about Trijicon scopes have a look at my review on Trijicon Accupower 1-8×28.
Turrets & Adjustments
The turrets on the Trijicon ACOG blend simplicity and precision. With each click being 0.5 MOA, making minute adjustments felt simple and reliable. The turrets also provide tactile and audible feedback with each click, which is crucial when making adjustments in the field, especially under adverse conditions.
Setting and adjusting the elevation and windage turrets is also simple and doesn’t need any special tools. This is a feature I value, as it simplifies the zeroing process and allows for quick corrections during a shooting session. The total adjustment range of 90 MOA for both windage and elevation is generous and provides ample room for getting dialed in in any terrain or environment.
In my testing, I found the turrets to hold their settings reliably, even after transitioning through various magnification ranges and enduring the recoil of multiple rounds. The ability to maintain a zero is a testament to the build quality and precision engineering involved in the creation of the VCOG. With no reticle illumination, there’s no brightness adjustment turret, which simplifies the design even more.
Build Quality
During my unboxing I could tell this scope was made to last. The body is made from forged 7075-T6, aircraft-grade, high-tech aluminum alloy, making it not only lightweight but incredibly durable. I was particularly impressed with its nearly indestructible housing, which is a necessity for a scope meant to operate at a variety of ranges.
The black matte finish is more or less standard. But when you handle the VCOG you can feel the durability. Every component feels solid and well put together. This scope feels exactly how it should, considering the price point.
Trijicon has tested the VCOG to MIL-STD-810G, which speaks volumes about the scope’s ability to make it out of tough environments alive. In my testing, the VCOG held up impressively well to various conditions, maintaining its zero and functioning flawlessly despite the recoil and the elements. It’s waterproof to 66 feet, as well as shockproof, and fogproof, so it’s ready to operate in whatever conditions you find yourself.
The VCOG’s quality extends to its mount as well. The included TA51 mount is robust and provides a secure attachment to the rifle, ensuring the scope stays put even during rapid maneuvering and recoil. In general, the build quality of the Trijicon VCOG is exemplary, and exactly what you’d come to expect from a top-tier scope like this.
Real-Life Testing: A Day in the Field
Taking the Trijicon VCOG 1-6×24 out for a real-world test was a day I had been looking forward to. The weather was a mix of sun and clouds, providing a good range of lighting conditions to test the scope’s glass quality and reticle clarity. I mounted it on my trust AR-15, chambered in 300 blackout, and headed to a mixed terrain outdoor range that offers both close-quarter and long-distance shooting scenarios.
Starting off with some close-quarter drills, the VCOG’s 1x magnification was just what the doctor ordered, and I was handing out lead prescriptions left and right. The reticle was crisp and the field of view was wide, making transitioning between targets second nature. The generous eye relief meant I didn’t have to fight with the scope to find a good sight picture, even when shooting on the move.
Transitioning to the longer-range targets, cranking the scope up to 6x magnification was silky smooth thanks to the integrated dial fin. No matter what magnification level I was at, the zero distortion glass provided the clearest sight picture imaginable. I spent a good portion of the day cycling between magnifications, engaging targets at varying distances, and pushing the scope in every way I could.
As the sun began to set, the quality of the glass became even more apparent. The VCOG allowed for a good amount of light transmission, providing a bright sight picture even in the diminishing light. I was able to get off a few last shots as the light left us, and I felt that this scope had performed well in every way I had asked it to.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Superior Glass Quality: The multi-coated lenses of the VCOG offer exceptional clarity and light-gathering technology, combined with no distortion, providing a bright and clear sight picture in a variety of lighting conditions.
- Simple Adjustments: The windage and elevation turrets are easy to adjust, and the integrated dial fin makes changing magnifications smooth and quick.
- Legendary Durability: Forged from 7075-T6 aircraft-aluminum-alloy, this scope is nearly indestructible, passing the rigorous MIL-STD-810G testing, and proving itself in the field during my testing as well.
Cons
- Weight: At 23.2 ounces, it’s on the heavier side which could be a factor for those looking to keep their setup as lightweight as possible.
Who Should Buy This Scope?
The Trijicon VCOG 1-6×24 is a scope designed for those who are serious about their shooting, whether it be for tactical, hunting, or competitive purposes, and are willing to invest in it. Its rugged construction and superior optics make it a trustworthy companion for law enforcement or military personnel who need a reliable sighting system in the field. Similarly, hunters who venture into rugged terrain and require a durable scope that can withstand the elements will find the VCOG a worthy investment. 
The Final Word
This scope may be on the higher end of the price point scale, but in this case, you absolutely get what you pay for. This scope truly is a superior demonstration of shooting optics, and it delivers high-performance target acquisition in both long-range and close-quarters engagements. After spending a substantial amount of time with this scope, it’s clear that Trijicon has crafted a product that lives up to the expectations and demands of serious shooters. Whether you’re in a competitive arena, a tactical environment, or out in the wild hunting, the VCOG is a scope that’s built to perform and endure.
If you are interested to read more of my articles you can check my reviews on the best air rifle scopes or 450 bushmaster scopes.
Mike Fellon is an experienced firearms enthusiast and optics expert. He delivers unbiased and detailed rifle scope reviews. Born and raised in Dallas, Texas. He inherited his hunting passions after his father John – he was fascinated by his stories, hearing how much attention, focus, dedication and patience he invested in shooting every animal. When he was old enough, his father first allowed him to shoot some cans and bottles with his shotgun, and then took him hunting – it was love at first sight. Mike has never stopped shooting ever since.