I have a 3-9x42 illuminated reticle (item #SEC3942R) mounted on a ar carbine. The reticle is even a Mil-Dot. It's only had 2 shooting sessions. Seems to be holding zero. Light weight, compact, bright and clear (focus fades at the edges). The switch for the IR is finicky. But, hasn't failed. So far, so good. For $50 I think it's a pretty good deal. I bought it because I changed the gun to a flat-top and needed some way to sight it. Bought the NcStar as a cheap "get me buy sighting system". It will stay this way for a while 'cause so far I like it just fine. And, my son thinks it's pretty cool. And, I will do most any thing to keep him shootin'. He's 14, getting interested in other things and I don't want him to loose interest in hunting and shooting.