OPERATOR’S MANUAL FOR

HWS 557.AR223 REFLEX , HOLOGRAPHIC, NV COMPATIBLE, AA, L-3 EOTECH ORDER CODE: 557.AR223 See inside cover for distribution statement.

L-3 Eotech Technical Manual ver. 1.0

APRIL 2007 DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT: Distribution is authorized to U.S. Government agencies and their contractors. This publication is required for administration and operational purposes. Additional copies of this document can be found on the manufacturer’s website. Written requests must be referred to:

L-3 EOTech Service Dept. Attn: TM Request 1201 E.Ellsworth Rd. Ann Arbor, MI 48108 (734)741-8868 x3688 general@-inc.com

DESTRUCTION NOTICE: Destroy the sight’s operability by removing the battery cap, batteries, and then crushing the battery cap. Destroy this document by any method that will prevent disclosure of contents or reconstruction of the document.

WARNING

WEAPON SAFETY: Prior to mounting the (HWS) on a weapon, be sure the weapon is cleared. If you are not sure how to clear the weapon, please see the operator’s manual for the weapon platform you are mounting the HWS on.

LASER SAFETY: The HWS is a Class II laser product. The Class II level illuminating beam, however, is completely blocked by the housing. The only laser light accessible to the eye is the image beam and produces a power level that is within the limit of a Class IIa laser product. The illuminating beam can be viewed directly by eye if the housing is broken. Turn the sight off immediately and return the broken unit to the factory for repair.

FCC COMPLIANCE: The HWS complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

CAUTION

• Never remove any screws or disassemble the sight’s optical housing components. The optical cavity is nitrogen filled and sealed to prevent internal fogging. • Disassembly will void the warranty and render the sight inoperable. • Always check to make sure the sight is off before pressing the NV button to turn on the sight in the Night Vision mode. Otherwise, it will toggle to the Normal mode and saturate the image intensifier. • When a sudden increase in resistance is felt in the elevation or windage adjustment shafts, the end of the adjustment range has been reached. DO NOT TURN THE ADJUSTMENTS ANY FARTHER OR SERIOUS DAMAGE TO THE SIGHT MAY OCCUR. • Never clean the glass surface with a dry cloth or paper towel; always dampen the glass surfaces prior to cleaning • All moving parts of the sight are permanently lubricated. Do not try to lubricate them. • Do not use deteriorated or corroded batteries. Inspect batteries for rips, tears, dents, or cuts in the housing. If there is any exposed internal content of the battery, it could negatively effect the operation of the sight.

TABLE OF CONTENTS Page

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 General Information 1.2 Key Attributes 1.3 Equipment Description 1.4 Location and Description of Major Components

2.0 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

2.1 Description of Components, Controls, and Indicators 2.1.1 Hood 2.1.2 Batteries 2.1.3 Replacing Batteries 2.1.4 Electronic Features 2.1.5 Night Vision Mode 2.1.6 Windage and Elevation Adjustments 2.1.7 MPO (Multi-Purpose Optic) Shroud 2.2 Preventive Maintenance Checks and Services (PMCS) 2.3 Troubleshooting 2.4 Unit Level Maintenance and Repair 2.5 Installation of Equipment 2.6 Zeroing Procedures

3.0 APPENDIX A, COMPONENTS OF END ITEM 4.1 Basic Issue Items 4.2 Replacement Items 4.0 APPENDIX B, FACTORY CONTACTS

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 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 . 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 (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 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 obscure 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 reflex sight can be naturally employed by all levels of users, from novice to the most highly trained operator. The 557.AR223 HWS can operate with Generation I – IV+ night vision intensifier tubes. Operators can see the holographic reticle image with helmet mounted or weapon mounted night vision devices. The optic design is a passive system which emits no signature from a frontal or peripheral aspect. While in the NV mode, the sight is undetectable by opposing force night vision equipment. The HWS can be used with night vision systems without any “bloom” on the target area. The primary use of the 557.AR223 is for the M4A1 carbine in Close Quarters Battle. The sight provides a 1X (no magnification) sight picture. However, it can be used as an effective longer range sight when used with a magnification device.

1.3 Equipment Description Operation • Optics: Transmission holography – 100% parallax free • Magnification: 1x Eye Relief: Unlimited Length/Width/Height: 4.9”x1.8”x2.8” Weight: 12.3 oz • Temperature: -40 to 150 F • Waterproof: Submersible to 33 ft of water depth • Sealing: Fog-proof internal optics • Color/Finish: Non-reflective black on most exposed surfaces • Adjustment (per click): 0.5 MOA (1/2” at 100 yds) • Adjustment Range: +/- 40 MOA travel • Mount: MIL-STD 1913 mounting rail • Return to Zero: Repeatable to 1 MOA after re-mounting

Heads-Up Display Window • Optical Surfaces: Anti-glare coating • Window Dimensions: 1.20” x 0.85” (30 x 23mm) • Field of View (100 yds): 30 yds (28m) at a 4” eye relief • Reticle: 65MOA circle with quadrant ticks and within the circle, a vertical four-dot ballistic aiming array, each 1 MOA in size – calibrated to the ballistic drop of .223 caliber ammunition

Electrical • Brightness Adjustment Range: 110,000: 1 brightest to lowest • Night Vision Brightness Range: 1000: 1 with NV switch engaged • Power Source: 2 x AA batteries • Battery Life: 1,000 continuous hours at nominal setting 12 with lithium batteries, 600 hours with alkaline batteries • Brightness Settings: 30 settings with scrolling feature (10 settings for NV use) • Auto Battery Check Indicator: Flashing reticle upon start-up • Auto Shut-down: At 8 hrs- programmable to 4 hrs

Figure 3: Locations of Components

Figure 4: Location of Components

Holographic Window - Contains the embedded holographic reticle pattern that forms a virtual image of the reticle when illuminated by the integral laser Hood – Pre-assembled, protective hood that covers the optical housing of the sight to protect the sight from impact damage. Battery Cap Latch - A cam lever that secures the removable battery compartment Removable Battery Cap - Housing that contains the power source for the HWS. Universal Mount – Attaches to any MIL-STD-1913 (Picatinny) rail.

Windage Adjustment - Adjusts the point of impact 1/2 MOA per click horizontally. Elevation Adjustment - Adjusts the point of impact 1/2 MOA per click vertically Lock Knob – When tightened, locks the sight to the weapon mount On/Off, NV Mode, and Brightness Switches - Raised buttons to adjust user settings

2.0 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

This section describes the features and operating instructions of the 557.A223. Please read the instructions carefully before mounting and using the sight, and always practice proper safety.

The Reflex Sight will include:

. • Sight assembly . • 2 x AA alkaline batteries . • This Operators Manual

2.1 Description of Components, Controls, and Indicators

The 557.AR223 uses a laser to illuminate a holographic reticle pattern embedded in the heads-up display window and forms a virtual image of a reticle pattern. The shooter looks through the heads-up display window and sees a bright red image of a reticle pattern projected onto the target plane. There is no light projected onto the target plane. The Reflex Sight has no magnification.

2.1.1 Hood

The 557.AR223 is equipped with a protective hood, pre-assembled at the factory. Should the hood require repair or replacement, please contact the unit armorer or return the sight to the manufacturer (L-3 EOTech) for repair or replacement.

2.1.2 Batteries

Two (2) commonly available Type AA 1.5 volt alkaline batteries power the 557.AR223. Two batteries are supplied with the sight. The sight will maintain constant brightness when set to a particular setting as long as the batteries have useful life remaining. The reticle brightness will not fade gradually as the batteries run down. The sight will, however, shut down abruptly. The first indication of the batteries draining is the reticle blinking when the unit is turned on (see Electronic Features 2.1.4). Another indication of low battery life 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 batteries. Please read and follow the battery replacement and battery check procedures described in this Manual. 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 Eveready Energizer™ batteries. It is always good practice to replace the batteries with a fresh set before a mission.

2.1.3 Replacing Batteries

Remove the battery compartment by lifting the battery cap latch which, which rotates a locking cam. Carefully slide the battery compartment away and up from the sight housing (Figure 4). After the battery compartment is removed, remove the batteries and replace them with a fresh set. The labels on the bottom of battery compartment show the correct battery orientation. Always make sure the seal is free of dirt before the battery compartment is reinstalled or the water-proofing may be compromised. To reinstall the battery compartment, reverse the steps to remove the compartment, holding the battery compartment down firmly against the base when closing the locking cam. Before pushing down on the battery cap latch, make sure the battery compartment is fully seated 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 power.

Figure 5: Battery Cap Removal 2.1.4 Electronic Features

All electronic controls are performed through use of the pushbutton switches located at the left side of the unit housing as shown in Figure 5. To ensure proper operation of the pushbutton switches, press firmly on the center of the switch.

Figure 6: Pushbuttons 1. ON/ Auto Battery Check Pressing the Up or Down Arrow pushbutton switches will turn the sight ON at Level 12. See item 4 under this section for a description of Auto shutdown. The sight will automatically perform a battery check every time it is turned on. If the batteries have less than 20% of life left, the sight will turn on with the reticle image blinking on and off for 5 seconds. If the remaining battery life is more than 20%, the sight will turn on with a steady reticle pattern. The battery condition can be checked any time by turning the sight off and back on.

2. OFF To turn the sight off, simultaneously press both the UP and DOWN arrows. Verify that the sight turns off by seeing no reticle through the heads-up display window.

3. Brightness Adjustment Pushbutton switches are used to vary the brightness intensity of the holographic reticle pattern. Pressing and releasing the pushbutton switch will change the brightness level UP or DOWN one (1) step from the previous setting. Pressing and holding the UP arrow or DOWN arrow switch will change the brightness level up or down continuously in steps. Twenty (20) brightness settings provide a dynamic range of 110,000:1 from the lowest setting to the highest setting.

4. Auto Shutdown The sight has an auto shutdown feature. If the sight is turned on by pressing the UP button, it will automatically shut OFF 8 hours after the last pushbutton control is used. The sight will automatically shut OFF after 4 hours if it is turned on by pressing the DOWN button.

2.1.5 Night Vision Mode On/Off Auto Shutdown

The 557.AR223 is compatible with Generation II, III, III+ and IV+ Night Vision Devices. When in any of the night vision settings, the reticle brightness is low enough that when viewed with a night vision device, the reticle image will not bloom.

1. ON/Night Vision Mode and 8 Hour Auto Shut Down Pressing the NV Button (see Fig. 4) will turn the sight ON in Night Vision Mode. The sight will turn on at Level 4 and automatically shut off 8 hours after the last pushbutton control is used. There are 10 brightness settings in NIGHT VISION MODE with a dynamic range of 1000:1.

2. OFF/ Turning Sight OFF To turn the sight off, press both the UP and DOWN arrows simultaneously. Verify that the sight shuts off by looking though the heads-up window with the night vision device.

3. TOGGLE/ Between Normal and Night Vision Modes To toggle between NORMAL and NIGHT VISION MODES, press the NV button. When switching between modes, the sight will remember the last brightness setting. NOTE 3: When used with a Night Vision device, always check to make sure the sight is not turned on before pressing the NV button to turn on the sight in the Night Vision mode. Otherwise, it will toggle to the Normal mode and saturates the image intensifier.

2.1.6 Windage and Elevation Adjustments

Figure 7: Windage and Elevation Adjustments

The sight provides tactile and audible feedback (“click”) when the elevation and windage adjustment controls are rotated during adjustment. The elevation and windage adjustments are located on the right-hand side of the sight – see figure 8. The front control is the windage adjustment and the rear control is the elevation adjustment. Both of the adjustment mechanisms have a slotted head and require the use of a screwdriver, coin, or spent brass to turn. For both elevation and windage, each click will change the bullet’s point of impact 1/2 Minute of Angle (MOA) which equals 1/4 inch at 50 yards or 1/2 inch at 100 yards. Also, one full rotation of 360º of either adjustment control will change the point of impact 10 MOA, 5 inches at 50 yards, or 10 inches at 100 yards. To move the point of impact DOWN, turn the elevation adjustment CLOCKWISE. To move the point of impact RIGHT, turn the windage adjustment CLOCKWISE.

The elevation and windage adjustments are factory set to coincide with the bore of the rifle parallel to the mounting rail. The sight should be close to mechanical zero when mounted on a properly installed rail. Do not change the adjustments before mounting the sight on the firearm. Be sure to check that the mount and sight are securely mounted after initial firing.

CAUTION – There are 80 minutes of total adjustment range in both windage and elevation (40 minutes in each direction). There are eighty (80) 1/2 MOA clicks of adjustment from optical center to the limits of windage and elevation adjustment. To establish optical/mechanical zero, adjust the control to it’s travel limit, then return 80 clicks (do this for both the elevation and the windage). When an increase in resistance in adjustment resistance is encountered, the end of the adjustment range has been reached. DO NOT turn the adjustment any farther, as serious damage will occur to the sight.

2.1.7 MPO Shroud

When the 557.AR223 is used as part of the MPO (Multi-Purpose Optic) system, a shroud that fits semi- permanently to the sight can be installed. The shroud acts as a light shield and dust shield and fits between the 557.AR223 and the L-3 Eotech 4X Magnifier when the MPO system is fully assembled. The shroud is made of an elastomer that has three metal retention spring clips. To install the shroud, align it’s flange to the opening between the hood and the 557.AR223 body as shown in figure 9. Push firmly until the shroud is fully seated. Removal may damage the spring fingers, necessitating replacement with a new MPO shroud assembly.

Figure 10 - MPO Shroud Installation

2.2 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 BATTERIES

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 windows of the sight 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. Never clean the glass surface with a dry cloth or paper towel; always dampen the glass surfaces prior to cleaning. 2. No maintenance of the sight’s surface is required, other than wiping off with a soft cloth. If needed, 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 sight. 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 nitrogen filled and sealed to achieve fog-proof performance. Disassembly will void the warranty and damage the sight.

2.3 Troubleshooting The following section outlines measures the operator can take in the event of the named failure.

Failure: The sight will not power up

Corrective Action 1: Ensure that the batteries are inserted properly according to the diagram on the bottom of the battery cap.

Corrective Action 2: Replace the batteries with new, unused batteries that contain a full charge.

Corrective Action 3: Inspect the battery contact points in both the battery cap and on the sight itself. These contact points are spring loaded and surrounded by a rubber gasket that may catch the spring. Manipulate the contact points gently and ensure they are at or above the surface of the rubber gasket.

Corrective Action 4: Reset the electronics by removing all power; i.e the battery cap and batteries, for at least two minutes. Reconnect the batteries and check operation of the sight as normal.

Corrective Action 5: Check the battery contacts for corrosion or wear. Clean the contacts.

Corrective Action 6: Return the sight for repair.

Failure: The reticle is fuzzy, has a ‘halo’ effect or has more than one reticle:

The reticle is naturally pixilated and the outer circle will appear to be made up of many small dots. The center circle will still be distinguishable as one dot.

Corrective Action 1: Lower the brightness level of the reticle. This fault is generally caused by the reticle brightness being set too high. The reticle intensity should not be set so bright as to obscure the target. Corrective Action 2: The reticle appears to be projected onto the target plane. The shooter’s eye must be focused on it as with other objects at that distance. Do NOT focus on the sight housing like other reflex sights; focus on the target. The outer ring is designed to be a reference to center, similar to a ghost ring.

Corrective Action 3: If corrective lenses are worn for nearsightedness, they are required to focus on the reticle, as it is projected onto the target plane. If bifocals are worn or if there is a eyesight astigmatism, a distorted reticle may be seen.

Corrective Action 4: Check with others who have used the sight, and compare what seen to ensure it is not your visual acuity, prior to returning the sight for repair.

Corrective Action 5: Return the sight in for repair.

Failure: The reticle is flashing/ flashing on and off/ unit turns off during recoil

Corrective Action 1: This is the low battery indicator. Replace the batteries.

Corrective Action 2: If the batteries are low, a high recoil weapon platform can cause the reticle to flash on and off, even before the low battery indicator takes effect. Replace the batteries.

Corrective Action 3: Replace the battery with Energizer brand batteries. This battery brand has proven to be the most effective in withstanding consistent recoil. Many brands of batteries deteriorate faster and can result in this failure.

Corrective Action 4: Return the sight in for repair.

Failure: There is a streak in the reticle/ the reticle is dim/ the reticle fades in parts of the window

Corrective Action 1: Replace the batteries.

Corrective Action 2: Check with others who have used the sight, and compare what seen to ensure it is not your visual acuity, prior to returning the sight for repair.

Corrective Action 3: Return the sight for repair.

Failure: A missing bolt/ broken bolt/ broken latch:

Corrective Action 1: Return the sight for repair.

2.4 Unit Level Maintenance and Repair

The only authorized replacement or repair other than the Manufacturer’s repair facility is for the following items:

• Batteries • Battery Cap • Protective Hood and Hood Screws

If the sight has been returned for unit level maintenance that requires action in addition to the above mentioned authorized repair or replacement items, the sight will need to be returned to the manufacturer for the repair.

Contacting the manufacturer for repair:

1. The manufacturer’s website is https://www.eotech-inc.com. Click on the Customer Service Tab in the menu bar and follow the instructions. 2. Call or email EOTech’s Customer Service Department at the following: (734) 741-8868 x3688 [email protected] 3. Be sure to leave a name, contact number, return shipping address, and failure description in the email or on a voice mail. This will allow the manufacturer to generate a Return Authorization Number (RA#) to include with the sight(s). DO NOT SHIP THE SIGHTS WITHOUT A RETURN AUTHORIZATION NUMBER (this will severely delay the turn around time on repair or replacement). 4. If you require, fill out a DD Form 1149 to include with the sight(s) you will return. Include a reference to the RA#, and a signature line for EOTech’s Service Department to sign indicating the receipt of materials. The signed copy will be mailed, faxed, or emailed back to you upon receipt of the sight(s) for the purposes of accountability. 5. If the manufacturing date located on the bottom of the sight is more than two years old, a fee will be assessed for repair to include the cost of both parts and labor. A purchase order will be required to process the repair. Please contact EOTech for an estimate.

Please send the unit postage prepaid, to address listed in Appendix B. Please include your name, address, telephone number, and a written description of the problem you are encountering, and also include the RA#. Whenever possible, ship the sight in its original box.

2.5 Installation of Equipment

MOUNTING

The 557.AR223 is equipped with mounting hardware to attach to a MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny style rail. To achieve the best results and accuracy, the HWS must be mounted properly. The Picatinny rail needs to be parallel to the bore to permit the maximum elevation and windage adjustments. If it is required, it is strongly recommend that the weapon rail be installed by a qualified gunsmith.

1. Locate the crossbar and clamp on the underside of the sight. 2. Loosen the slotted lock knob until resistance to turning is felt. 3. Place the crossbar in a groove on the top of the weapon rail. Individual preference and the specific firearm determine the optimal position on the weapon rail. 4. Make sure the crossbar is inserted fully into the rail’s groove and push the sight as far forward as possible. 5. Tighten the slotted lock knob, rotating the bolt until resistance is felt. Use a coin, screwdriver, or other type of flat tool to rotate the bolt head an additional 3/4” turn to fully tighten.

NOTE 2: A Picatinny rail cannot be installed directly on some weapons. EOTech sells mount adapters to provide a standard Picatinny rail for various weapons used in today’s military and law enforcement applications. Contact a Factory representative if you are unclear on the mounting adapter you should use on your weapon.

2.6 Zeroing Procedures

Refer to the section on Windage and Elevation Adjustments (Section 2.1.6) to zero the 557.AR223. The following are some additional reference aids that can be used during the zeroing process. BORE SIGHTING

Bore sighting is a good preliminary procedure in achieving proper alignment of your sight to the firearm. A chamber laser/ bore sighter is an aid in achieving collimation.

LIVE FIRE SIGHTING FOR AN M-4 OR M-16

To adjust the top aiming dot of the 557.AR223 reticle from 10 to 300 meters, the sight can be zeroed at 25 meters using a standard M4/M16 military zeroing target. With the dot aimed at center mass of the target, the sight should be adjusted so the round lands approximately 1 cm below the point of aim at 25 meters. This method of zeroing ensures hitting a target at 100-200 meters where fine tuning should be conducted. Additionally there are custom targets for 25m zeroing used with the M-4 and M16 (see Figure 6), and for Laser Bore Sighting (see Figure 7). Please visit the manufacturer’s website at www.eotech-inc.com or contact the manufacturer for copies of these targets RANGE ESTIMATION WITH UNMAGNIFIED HOLOGRAPHIC WEAPON SIGHT

Range estimation can be done with different portions of the projected reticle, such as the center dot or the ordinal points. The aiming dot will displace a one inch area on the target at 100 yards, two inches at 200 yards, three inches at 300 etc.

Shipping Address: L3-EOTech Inc. 3600 Green Court STE 400 Ann Arbor, MI 48105 USA

EMAIL: [email protected]

www.eotech-inc.com