OPERATOR’S MANUAL FOR EXPS3™ HWS® (HOLOGRAPHIC WEAPON SIGHT) See inside cover for distribution statement. XE1974 EOTECH Technical Manual ver.
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: L3 EOTECH® Service Dept. Attn: TM Request 1201 E. Ellsworth Rd. Ann Arbor, MI 48108 (734)741-8868 x2176 support.eotech@L3T.
WARNING WEAPON SAFETY: Prior to mounting the HWS on your weapon, be sure the weapon is cleared. If you are not sure how to clear your weapon, please see the accompanying operator’s manual for the weapon platform you are mounting the sight on. LASER SAFETY: The HWS is a Class I laser product. The Class I level illuminating beam, however, is completely blocked by the housing. The only laser light accessible to the eye is the image beam and is at a power level within the limit of a Class I laser product.
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CAUTION • Never disassemble the sight’s optical assembly. The optical cavity is purged, nitrogen filled, and sealed to achieve fog resistant performance. Disassembly will void the warranty and render the sight inoperable. • When using a Night Vision compatible HWS in tandem with an NV device, 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.
• D o 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 affect the operation of the sight. • The EXPS3 HWS units are designed to mount directly to either a 1”(25.4mm) weaver or MIL-STD-1913 rail specification.
1.0 2.0 Page INTRODUCTION............................................................................................. 1 1.1 General Information............................................................................... 1 1.2 Key Attributes........................................................................................ 2 1.3 Equipment Description.......................................................................... 5 1.4 Location and Description of Major Components.........................
3.0 APPENDIX A, COMPONENTS OF END ITEM.............................................. 28 3.1 Replacement Items.............................................................................. 28 4.0 APPENDIX B, FACTORY CONTACTS..........................................................
1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 General Information This manual is an overview of the EXPS3 HWS (Holographic Weapon Sight), and will define the basic operation, features/benefits, and options of this proprietary optical system. The HWS is a state of-the-art optical sighting system, employing holographic sighting technology for small to medium caliber weaponry and launching type platforms.
1.2 Key Attributes The EXPS3 HWS is a lightweight, non-magnifying, optical sight designed for close to mid range engagements. It allows very fast target acquisition and engagement at short ranges while providing aiming capability out to 300 meters equal to or better than iron sights. The major combat advantage of the HWS is extremely rapid reticle-on-target acquisition. As quickly as a target is identified, the holographic reticle can be superimposed on the target.
Fig. 1 EXPS3 reticle options The HWS 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) without obscuring the target. Another advantage of the HWS is the full field of view which allows the operator better situational awareness. The HWS employs a true heads up display (HUD) window that eliminates blind spots and constricted or tunnel vision associated with scope sights.
signature from frontal or from a peripheral aspect. While in the NV mode, the sight is undetectable by opposing force night vision equipment. The HWS can be positioned behind night vision systems without any “bloom” on the target area. The primary use of the HWS is for the M4A1 carbine and CQBR in Close Quarters Battle. The HWS is not however, limited to carbines. The HWS can also be used on medium caliber machine guns, grenade launchers, bolt guns, crossbows, and less than lethal projectile launchers.
1.3 EXPS3 Equipment Description Operation • O ptics: Transmission holography • M agnification: 1x • E ye Relief: Unlimited • L ength/Width/Height: 3.8”x2.3”x2.9” (96.5 x 58.4 x 73.7mm) • W eight: 11.2 oz (317.5g) • W ater resistant: Submersible to 33 ft (10m) depth • S ealing: Fog resistant internal optics • C olor/Finish: Non-reflective black or Flat Dark Earth (FDE) • Adjustment (per click): Approx. 0.5 MOA (1/2” (12.
Display Window • O ptical Surfaces: Anti-reflection coating on external surfaces • W indow Dimensions: 1.20” x 0.85” (30 x 23mm) • Front Window Material: Glass 1/8" (3.17mm) thick • Rear Window Material: Laminate 3/16” (4.
1.
Holographic Window - Contains the embedded holographic reticle pattern that forms a virtual image of the reticle when illuminated by laser light. Protective Hood - Preassembled, protective hood increases durability of sight housing and protects the sight from impact damage. Battery Cap- A threaded cap that secures and seals the battery compartment to prevent water, dirt, or grime from entering the battery housing. Universal Mount - Ambidextrous, quick release base mounts to either a 1” (25.
2.0 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS This section describes the features and operating instructions of the EXPS3. Please read the instructions carefully before mounting and using the sight, and always practice proper firearm safety. The HWS will include: • • • • Sight assembly 1 x Type 123 Lithium battery Quick Reference Card Product Registration/Warranty Card 2.
2.1.1 Hood The HWS is equipped with a protective hood. This hood is pre-assembled at the factory. Should your hood require repair or replacement, please contact your unit armorer for repair, replacement, or contact the manufacturer (L3 EOTECH) for repair or replacement. 2.1.2 Battery One initially supplied (1) 123 Lithium battery powers the EXPS3. The HWS is designed to maintain constant brightness at a particular setting as the battery drains down.
Fig 3: Proper battery Installation 11
2.1.3 Replacing the Battery Remove the battery cap by turning the cap counterclockwise until the cap pulls away from the battery compartment (Fig. 3). After the battery cap is removed, slide the battery out and replace it with a fresh one. A “+” marking can be found on the top of the battery cap ensuring correct battery orientation. To reinstall the battery cap, align the cap with the battery compartment and carefully begin to thread the cap, turning it clockwise.
2.1.4 Electronic Features All electronic controls are via pushbutton switches located on the left side of the unit housing as shown in Fig. 4. To ensure proper operation of the pushbutton switches, press firmly on the center of the switch. 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.
4. Auto Shutdown The HWS has an auto shutdown feature. If the sight is turned on by pressing the UP button, it will automatically shut itself 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 EXPS3 is compatible with Generation I - III+ Night Vision Devices. At the night vision settings, the reticle brightness is low enough that when viewed with a night vision device, the reticle image does 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.
2.1.6 Windage and Elevation Adjustments Fig 5: Adjustments The HWS features click mechanisms for elevation and windage adjustments. The elevation and windage adjustment are located on the right-hand side of the sight (Figure 5). The knob towards the front is the windage adjustment and the knob towards the rear is the elevation adjustment. Both of these adjustment mechanisms are grooved with a slotted screw head and require the use of a screwdriver, coin, or spent brass to turn.
shown in Fig. 5. For both elevation and windage, each click will change the sights point of aim approximately 1/2 Minute of Angle (MOA), ¼ inch (6.35mm) at 50 yards (45.7m), or ½ inch (12.7mm) at 100 yards (91m) when zeroing. Also, one full rotation of either knob will change the point of aim approximately 10 MOA, 5 inches (127mm) at 50 yards (45.7m), or 10 inches (254mm) at 100 yards (91m) when zeroing. To move the point of impact UP, turn the elevation adjustment LEFT.
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 BATTERY See the heading ‘Replacing Battery’ (2.1.3) under section Description of Components, Controls, and Indicators. Do not use deteriorated or corroded batteries. Inspect battery for rips, tears, or cuts in the housing.
2. No maintenance is needed on the sight’s surface, except to occasionally wipe off with a soft cloth. 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 HWS. 3. All moving parts of the sight are permanently lubricated with the exception of the quick release lever. If audible sounds are generated when opening/closing lever, add a drop of lubricant to lever assembly.
should be positioned on the side of the battery cap. Corrective Action 3: Replace the battery with a new, unused battery that contain a full charge. Corrective Action 4: Inspect the battery contact points in both the battery cap and in the sight itself. Ensure that they are free of debris or corrosion. Corrective Action 5: Reset the electronics by removing any source of power for approximately two minutes. This will allow a capacitor in the electronics housing to drain of power, resetting the electronics.
Corrective Action 1: Lower the brightness level of the reticle. This fault is generally caused by the reticle brightness being too high. The reticle is not designed to be so bright as to block the target. Corrective Action 2: The reticle is projected onto your target plane. You must focus on it like you would any other object at that distance. Do NOT focus on the sight housing, rather, focus on your target. The outer ring is designed to be a reference to center, similar to a ghost ring.
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 battery. Corrective Action 2: If the battery is 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 battery. Corrective Action 3: Replace the battery with an Energizer brand battery.
2.4 Unit Level Maintenance and Repair The Unit Armorer or individual responsible for unit level maintenance is only authorized to replace or repair the following items: – – – – – Battery Battery Cap Quick release, adjustable base Protective Hood and Hood Screws Quick Reference Card Please see Additional Authorized Items in Appendix A for the corresponding NSN numbers for the above listed components.
2. Call or email L3 EOTECH’s Customer Service Department at the following: (734) 741-8868 support.eotech@L3T.com 3. B e 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.
2.5 Installation of Equipment MOUNTING The EXPS3 is equipped with mounting hardware (see Figure 6) to attach to a 1” (25.4mm) Weaver or MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny style rail. To achieve the best results and accuracy, the HWS must be mounted properly. The rail needs to be as parallel as possible to the bore to permit the maximum elevation and windage adjustments. If it is required, it is strongly recommend that the rail be installed by a qualified gunsmith. To mount the sight, please follow these steps. 1.
2.6 Zeroing Procedures Once the weapon’s iron sights have been zeroed, please refer to the section on Windage and Elevation Adjustments (Section 2.1.6) to zero the HWS. 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 collomation.
USING THE 2-DOT BALLISTIC RETICLE The EXPS3 offers a unique 2-dot ballistic reticle option assisting in short to long range applications. The 2 dots can be distinguished with or without magnification. This simple design is calibrated to the specific trajectory of the M4 carbine but can work on many other weapon platforms. See figure 9. Figure 9 Ballistic Chart Figure 10 (2-dot reticle for a .
3.0 APPENDIX A: Components of End Item 3.1 REPLACEMENT ITEMS To obtain replacement parts that are able to be field installed for your HWS or Magnifier Please visit our Web page support link at: https://www.eotechgear.
4.0 APPENDIX B: Factory Contacts Customer Service/Repair..................................................................... 888-EOTHOLO (734) 741-8868 Technical Sales/Service........................................................................(734) 741-8868 Shipping Address: L3 EOTECH 1201 E. Ellsworth Rd. Ann Arbor, MI 48108 USA Email ................................................................................... support.eotech@L3T.com Web.........................................