A Strong and Durable Design
If you ask anyone to describe Glock, the words “reliable, dependable, and durable” are likely to come up. The same can be said about Aimpoint. Optics produced by Aimpoint have been used in almost every major conflict for the past 50 years, amassing quite the stellar reputation. The Glock COA project combines a reliable handgun with one of the most durable handgun optics on the market.
Related Review: Unexpected Performer – Glock 48 Aimpoint COA Review
The Glock 19 is one of the most popular concealed carry handguns in the United States, and for good reason. The Glock 19 Gen 5 COA is a standard fifth-generation Glock with the addition of an A-Cut in the slide for mounting the new Aimpoint COA. This unique optic cut features a ledge in the front and a rear sight backplate that secures the optic in place.
Related Review: Glock 19 Gen 5 Grafts Real Upgrades Onto Family Tree
This is one of the securest and strongest mounting systems on the market, as the optic is locked into place with the actual cut of the slide, eliminating any sliding or movement. Additionally, this is one of the deepest optics cuts on the market, allowing for co-witnessing with standard-height iron sights.
The Optic
The Aimpoint COA is a more compact version of the ACRO. This enclosed box style of optic is practically indestructible. With the emitter and battery sealed in the housing, the optic is submersible to around 82 feet. The strong frame protects the vital components from abuse and the elements, ensuring proper function at all times.
The COA’s compact design allows for quick and snag-free operation from concealment. The windage and elevation adjustments are easily accessible on the side, with audible, tactile adjustments. The intensity buttons are also on the side of the housing, easily accessible with 12 different brightness settings. The battery tray is also accessible from the side, with a five-year life (of constant run time) on the battery.
On the Range
While the Glock 19 design itself is the same consistent workhorse as always, it takes about one magazine on the range to fall in love with the new Aimpoint optic. The COA is compact, but the viewing window might even be slightly larger than the bulkier ACRO. The co-witness of iron sights is also a great feature, although between the five-year battery life and the durability of the optic, the red dot should always be there.
The advantages of the COA are most apparent when holstered. I love the Aimpoint ACRO, and it seems many companies make handguns specifically for that footprint. My only issue is with the size, especially for concealment.
With the Glock 19 being one of the most popular concealed carry handguns and having carried one for years myself, I was excited to have a more compact enclosed optic. The draws are fast, the dot is clear, and the combination is strong.
Summary
This is one of the strongest crossovers I have seen, and I mean that literally. The durability of a Glock deserves an optic that can match its reputation, and Aimpoint can certainly deliver on that with the COA.
