Is there anyway to "rent" an optic?

It seems the only way to see if an optic works well/properly on a rifle setup is after you shell an insane amount of cash.

What are you looking to test out? I have a few units you can certainly test out if we meet up, or you give me something to hold as collateral.
Got an (older; ~9YO) ta01 ACOG, EOtech w/ magnifier setup, and a nikon monarch 6-24(i believe) scope. Vortex spitfire and strikefire as well. I think that was it.

 

Oh, and a burris 332

You can contact manufacturers and ask them if they have any "tester" units which in turn you then send back to them...but obviously you damage it, you bought it. That was an option Burris gave me a few yeas ago when I contacted them bout their AR series scopes.

what optics are you looking to test?

speaking of which... I would love to "test out" an ACOG TA33.  they're so damn expensive

Just go to a range preferably out door and ask people if you can look thru their optic

 

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I've looked thru a few acogs at shops, but have never seen anyone at the range with one.  I doubt I'd ever buy one with that price tag but it'd be cool.