Let’s Talk About Holosun Paralow 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight 1×20 mm
The Holosun Paralow 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight 1×20 mm is a compact, rugged, and highly efficient optic designed for rifles and carbines. Holosun, a name synonymous with reliable and innovative sighting solutions, has packed a great deal of technology into this small package. It boasts a crisp 2 MOA dot, 12 brightness settings, and a remarkably long battery life, making it a contender for anyone seeking a dependable red dot sight.
I’ve been in the market for a red dot that could withstand the rigors of both tactical training and the unpredictable conditions of backcountry hunts. My primary needs were a clear, precise aiming point, excellent battery life, and a durable construction that wouldn’t fail me when I needed it most. The Holosun Paralow seemed to tick all the right boxes on paper.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the Holosun Paralow’s solid feel and compact size. The CNC-machined aluminum housing felt incredibly robust, instilling confidence that it could handle bumps and scrapes without issue. The black micro arc finish also seemed durable. The included 1/3 co-witness mount looked well-made and ready for quick attachment.
I was also considering the Aimpoint PRO and the Sig Sauer Romeo5. The Aimpoint is legendary for its durability, but the higher price point made me hesitate. The Sig Sauer Romeo5 is another solid option, but the Holosun Paralow’s combination of features, including the 50,000-hour battery life and reputation for reliability, ultimately swayed my decision.
My first impression was one of excitement. The Holosun Paralow felt like a high-quality optic at a reasonable price point, and I was eager to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Holosun Paralow 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight 1×20 mm to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Holosun Paralow was at my local shooting range. I mounted it on my AR-15 and zeroed it at 50 yards. The adjustments were crisp and precise. It made dialing in the sight quick and easy.
I also tested it in varying light conditions, from bright sunlight to overcast skies. The 12 brightness settings allowed me to easily adjust the dot intensity to match the ambient light. This ensured a clear and easily visible aiming point in all situations.
The only initial issue I encountered was a slight learning curve with the brightness adjustment buttons. It took a few minutes to get used to their placement and function. However, this was quickly overcome with practice.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Holosun Paralow has proven to be a reliable and durable optic. I’ve used it in temperatures ranging from below freezing to over 90 degrees Fahrenheit. I haven’t experienced any issues with fogging or loss of zero.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the housing, despite being subjected to some accidental bumps and scrapes. The finish remains intact, and the glass is scratch-free. The optic has proven to be easily maintained and requires minimal cleaning.
Compared to other red dots I’ve used in the past, the Holosun Paralow stands out for its combination of clarity, battery life, and ruggedness. The 2 MOA dot is crisp and easy to acquire. The long battery life eliminates the constant worry of running out of power at a critical moment.
Breaking Down the Features of Holosun Paralow 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight 1×20 mm
Specifications
The Holosun Paralow 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight 1×20 mm is a feature-rich optic designed for optimal performance. It is manufactured by Holosun. Here’s a breakdown of its key specifications:
- Magnification: 1x (no magnification)
- Objective Lens Diameter: 20 mm
- Reticle: 2 MOA Dot
- Illumination Type: LED
- Illumination Color: Red
- Brightness Settings: 12 (10 Daylight, 2 Night Vision Compatible)
- Eye Relief: Unlimited
- Adjustment Click Value: 0.5 MOA at 100 yards
- Battery Type: CR2032
- Battery Life: Up to 50,000 hours (on setting 6)
- Operating Temperature: -22°F to 140°F
- Water Resistance: Waterproof (1 meter)
- Housing Material: CNC Aluminum (6061-T6 aluminum)
- Finish: Micro Arc
- Length: 63 mm
- Width: 30 mm
- Height: 58 mm
- Weight: 124 g
- Co-Witness: 1/3 Co-witness
- Adjustment Range: 50 MOA (Windage and Elevation)
- Attachment Type: Quick Detach, Low Profile
These specifications translate to a highly usable and adaptable red dot sight. The 2 MOA dot provides a precise aiming point. The long battery life ensures it’s always ready for use. The rugged construction guarantees it can withstand harsh conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Holosun Paralow excels in its primary function: providing a fast and accurate aiming solution. The red dot is clear and crisp. It allows for rapid target acquisition in close-quarters scenarios. The 0.5 MOA adjustments allow for precise zeroing, and the optic holds zero consistently even after repeated use.
One minor weakness is the absence of an auto-shutoff feature, although the long battery life mitigates this concern. The brightness settings are intuitive and effective. They allow the user to fine-tune the dot intensity to match ambient lighting conditions. The Holosun Paralow meets and exceeds expectations for a red dot sight in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Holosun Paralow features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes functionality and durability. The CNC-machined aluminum housing feels solid and robust. Its lightweight design does not add unnecessary bulk to the firearm. The buttons are easily accessible. However, they can be a bit small for users with larger fingers.
The 1/3 co-witness mount provides a comfortable sight picture. It allows for the use of iron sights as a backup. The optic is easy to mount and zero. This makes it user-friendly even for those with limited experience with red dot sights.
Durability & Maintenance
The Holosun Paralow is built to last. Its durable construction and waterproof design ensure it can withstand the rigors of regular use. It requires minimal maintenance. A simple wipe-down with a clean cloth is typically sufficient to keep the lens clear and the housing free of debris.
Based on my experience, I expect the Holosun Paralow to provide years of reliable service. The Holosun Paralow is easy to maintain. It requires minimal effort to keep it in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Holosun Paralow comes with a standard set of accessories, including a 1/3 co-witness mount, a lens cloth, and a CR2032 battery. While there are no specific factory customization options, the Holosun Paralow is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket mounts. These allow users to adjust the height and position of the optic to suit their individual needs.
Because of its industry-standard footprint, it is also compatible with lens protectors and kill flashes from other brands. The versatility of the Holosun Paralow makes it a great platform for customization.
Pros and Cons of Holosun Paralow 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight 1×20 mm
Pros
- Exceptional Battery Life: Up to 50,000 hours on a single CR2032 battery, minimizing the need for frequent replacements.
- Durable Construction: CNC-machined aluminum housing ensures long-lasting reliability in harsh conditions.
- Clear 2 MOA Dot: Provides a precise aiming point for rapid target acquisition.
- Multiple Brightness Settings: 12 brightness levels accommodate various lighting conditions.
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for its performance and features, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
Cons
- No Auto Shut-Off: Lacks an automatic shut-off feature to conserve battery life if left on accidentally.
- Smaller Buttons: The brightness adjustment buttons are somewhat small, which may be difficult for some users to manipulate with gloves.
Who Should Buy Holosun Paralow 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight 1×20 mm?
The Holosun Paralow 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight 1×20 mm is perfect for:
- Tactical Shooters: Its rugged construction and clear aiming point make it ideal for tactical training and operations.
- Hunters: Its long battery life and adjustable brightness settings are well-suited for hunting in various environments.
- Home Defense Users: Its ease of use and rapid target acquisition make it a valuable asset for home defense scenarios.
- AR-15 Owners: The 1/3 co-witness mount provides a comfortable sight picture on AR-15 platforms.
Those who prioritize an auto shut-off feature or require larger, more easily manipulated buttons may want to consider alternative options.
A must-have accessory is a set of quality lens covers to protect the glass from scratches and debris. Some users may also benefit from a riser mount to achieve a different co-witness height.
Conclusion on Holosun Paralow 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight 1×20 mm
The Holosun Paralow 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight 1×20 mm is an excellent optic that offers a compelling combination of performance, durability, and affordability. Its long battery life, rugged construction, and clear aiming point make it a reliable and versatile choice for a wide range of applications.
The price is absolutely justified, given its features and performance. It punches way above its weight class compared to other more expensive red dots.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Holosun Paralow to anyone seeking a dependable and affordable red dot sight. It’s a fantastic optic that will serve you well for years to come. Upgrade your shooting experience today. Go get your Holosun Paralow 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight 1×20 mm!