First Impressions of LaserMax Enclosed Reflex Red Dot Sight
The LaserMax Enclosed Reflex Red Dot Sight is a new contender in the ever-growing market of pistol optics, offering a fully enclosed design for enhanced durability. Marketed by LaserMax as a robust optic for RMR or MOS-ready pistols, it boasts an aircraft-grade aluminum housing and an innovative external light sensor. I was intrigued by its unique features and the promise of superior build quality compared to some of the open-emitter red dots I’ve used.
My search for a new pistol optic was driven by a need for something more rugged and reliable than my current red dot. I’ve had issues with open emitters getting obstructed by rain and debris, hindering my target acquisition in less-than-ideal conditions. A closed emitter seemed like the obvious solution, offering better protection and potentially increasing my accuracy in various scenarios.
Upon unboxing the LaserMax Enclosed Reflex Red Dot Sight, my initial impression was positive. The sight felt solid and well-constructed, with a noticeable heft that suggested quality materials. The matte black finish was clean and professional, and the included RMR and Glock MOS mounting plates were a welcome bonus, ensuring compatibility with a wider range of pistols.
I considered the Trijicon RMR and Holosun 507C before settling on the LaserMax Enclosed Reflex Red Dot Sight. While the Trijicon is a proven performer, the LaserMax offered a similar level of durability with the added benefit of automatic brightness adjustment, something the RMR lacks without the HD model. The Holosun was cheaper, but I was willing to pay a premium for the LaserMax’s potentially superior build quality and enclosed emitter.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to see how the LaserMax Enclosed Reflex Red Dot Sight would perform in real-world conditions, but also a little apprehensive about whether its features would live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting LaserMax Enclosed Reflex Red Dot Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the LaserMax Enclosed Reflex Red Dot Sight at my local shooting range on a Glock 19 MOS. The weather was partly cloudy, providing a good test for the optic’s automatic brightness adjustment feature. I primarily focused on drills that emphasized quick target acquisition and transitions.
The LaserMax performed admirably in these initial tests. The 3 MOA red dot was crisp and easy to see, even in bright sunlight, and the automatic brightness adjustment worked seamlessly, adapting to the changing lighting conditions without any noticeable lag. Getting used to the enclosed design was a breeze, providing a clear field of view.
After just a few magazines, I noticed no immediate issues. The sight held zero perfectly and the controls were easy to access and manipulate.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, including range trips and a few drills in a dusty outdoor environment, the LaserMax Enclosed Reflex Red Dot Sight has continued to impress. It has held zero consistently, even after repeated firing and moderate impacts. The LaserMax has endured consistent dry-fire practice and multiple range sessions.
Durability has proven to be a strong point. I haven’t noticed any significant wear and tear, and the enclosed emitter has remained clean and free of debris. The aluminum housing seems to be holding up well to the minor bumps and scrapes that are inevitable with regular use.
Maintaining the LaserMax Enclosed Reflex Red Dot Sight is incredibly simple. A quick wipe-down with a microfiber cloth is all it takes to keep the lens clean and clear. This is far easier than constantly cleaning out dust and debris from an open emitter optic.
Compared to my previous experiences with open-emitter red dots, the LaserMax is a clear winner. The enclosed design provides superior protection and enhances reliability in various environments. It has truly exceeded my expectations and has solidified its position as a trusted optic for my everyday carry pistol.
Breaking Down the Features of LaserMax Enclosed Reflex Red Dot Sight
Specifications
The LaserMax Enclosed Reflex Red Dot Sight boasts several impressive specifications. It features a 20.6×18 mm objective window, providing a generous field of view. The 3 MOA Red Dot reticle is powered by an LED, offering crisp and clear aiming point.
The sight is constructed from aircraft-grade 7071 aluminum, ensuring rugged durability. It offers unlimited eye relief, providing flexibility in mounting position. 1 MOA adjustment click values allow for precise zeroing.
The RMR footprint ensures compatibility with a wide range of pistols and mounting solutions. The sight is powered by a CR2032 battery, offering an impressive 50,000-hour battery life. Its fully enclosed emitter design adds an extra layer of protection against the elements.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the sight’s performance and reliability. The aluminum construction ensures that the LaserMax Enclosed Reflex Red Dot Sight can withstand the rigors of daily use. The long battery life provides peace of mind, knowing that the optic will be ready when needed.
Performance & Functionality
The LaserMax Enclosed Reflex Red Dot Sight performs its primary function of providing a fast and accurate aiming solution exceptionally well. Its automatic brightness adjustment is a standout feature, seamlessly adapting to changing lighting conditions. The crisp 3 MOA red dot is easy to acquire and use, even for those new to pistol optics.
One of the strengths of the LaserMax is its ruggedness. The fully enclosed design provides superior protection against dust, rain, and impacts. The weaknesses are hard to find, but some may find the automatic brightness adjustment a little too sensitive in rapidly changing lighting environments.
Overall, the LaserMax Enclosed Reflex Red Dot Sight meets and exceeds expectations. It offers a reliable, durable, and accurate aiming solution for a variety of pistols. The value proposition is excellent, considering the quality and features offered.
Design & Ergonomics
The LaserMax Enclosed Reflex Red Dot Sight has a sleek and functional design. The matte black finish gives it a professional and understated look. The aircraft-grade 7071 aluminum construction gives it a solid and durable feel, while remaining relatively lightweight.
The optic is designed to be user-friendly with an intuitive interface. The sight boasts 8 Day/2 Night brightness settings, giving the user complete control. There is a slight learning curve when manually adjusting the brightness settings, but overall the operation is simple.
Durability & Maintenance
The LaserMax Enclosed Reflex Red Dot Sight is built to last. The rugged aluminum housing and enclosed emitter are designed to withstand harsh conditions. The sight’s durability will definitely give users confidence in the optic’s lifespan.
Maintaining the LaserMax is simple. A quick wipe-down with a microfiber cloth is all that is needed to keep the lens clean and clear. No special tools or cleaning solutions are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The LaserMax Enclosed Reflex Red Dot Sight comes with everything needed for mounting on most RMR or MOS-ready pistols. Included are RMR and Glock MOS base plates. The optic can be paired with various aftermarket accessories such as co-witness height iron sights.
Pros and Cons of LaserMax Enclosed Reflex Red Dot Sight
Pros
- Fully enclosed emitter provides superior protection against dust, rain, and impacts.
- Automatic brightness adjustment works seamlessly in most lighting conditions.
- Aircraft-grade 7071 aluminum construction ensures rugged durability.
- 50,000-hour battery life provides peace of mind.
- Includes RMR and Glock MOS base plates for versatile mounting.
Cons
- Automatic brightness adjustment can be overly sensitive in rapidly changing light.
- Manual brightness adjustments are not as intuitive as some competitors.
Who Should Buy LaserMax Enclosed Reflex Red Dot Sight?
The LaserMax Enclosed Reflex Red Dot Sight is perfect for:
- Law enforcement and military personnel who require a durable and reliable optic in demanding environments.
- Everyday carry users who prioritize ruggedness and all-weather performance.
- Competitive shooters who need a fast and accurate aiming solution.
This product might not be ideal for:
- Users who prefer a manually adjustable brightness setting over automatic adjustment.
- Budget-conscious shooters who are looking for the absolute cheapest option.
A must-have accessory for this optic would be a set of co-witness height iron sights.
Conclusion on LaserMax Enclosed Reflex Red Dot Sight
The LaserMax Enclosed Reflex Red Dot Sight is a well-built and feature-rich pistol optic that offers excellent value for its price. Its fully enclosed design, automatic brightness adjustment, and rugged construction make it a standout contender in the market. The LaserMax Enclosed Reflex Red Dot Sight retails for $244.49.
The price is justified considering the quality, features, and performance offered. I would personally recommend the LaserMax Enclosed Reflex Red Dot Sight to anyone looking for a reliable and durable pistol optic. If you are in the market for a new red dot, the LaserMax is definitely worth considering.