What Makes Burris FastFire III Reflex Red Dot Sight, 8 MOA – 1 out of 2 models Stand Out?
The Burris FastFire III Reflex Red Dot Sight, 8 MOA – 1 out of 2 models is a compact and lightweight optic designed for rapid target acquisition. Manufactured by Burris, this red dot sight promises enhanced accuracy and speed, whether used as a primary sight or paired with existing optics. The 8 MOA dot size offers a balance between speed and precision, making it a versatile option for various shooting applications.
I’ve spent years struggling with iron sights on my tactical shotgun, especially in low-light conditions. Finding a durable, easy-to-mount red dot that wouldn’t break the bank became a personal quest. The promise of quick target acquisition and improved accuracy with the Burris FastFire III caught my attention.
Unboxing the FastFire III, I was immediately impressed by its compact size and lightweight design. It felt robust, and the included Picatinny mount seemed well-made. The top-mounted battery compartment was a welcome feature, indicating thoughtful design.
I considered the Trijicon RMR and the Aimpoint Micro T-2, but their significantly higher price points pushed me towards the Burris. While those are undeniably top-tier optics, the FastFire III seemed to offer a compelling balance of features and value for my needs. The Burris also stood out due to its easy top-accessed battery, a convenience I valued greatly.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to see if it lived up to its promises of rapid target acquisition and improved accuracy, but also realistic about the potential limitations of a more budget-friendly optic.
Real-World Testing: Putting Burris FastFire III Reflex Red Dot Sight, 8 MOA – 1 out of 2 models to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Burris FastFire III at my local outdoor shooting range, mounted on my trusty 12-gauge tactical shotgun. The weather was overcast with a light drizzle, offering less-than-ideal lighting conditions. The automatic brightness adjustment seemed to handle the changing light well.
Despite the drizzle, the sight picture remained clear, and the 8 MOA red dot was easily visible against the dark targets. Acquiring targets felt significantly faster than with the iron sights. After a few adjustments, I was consistently hitting center mass at 25 yards.
Using the sight for the first time was surprisingly intuitive. The windage and elevation adjustments were easy to make, and the dot was quick to zero. I encountered a slight parallax shift at extreme angles but nothing that drastically affected accuracy at practical distances.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Burris FastFire III has held up admirably. I’ve put several hundred rounds through my shotgun with the sight mounted, and it has maintained its zero. It hasn’t disappointed me yet.
The sight shows minimal signs of wear and tear. I’ve subjected it to typical range conditions, including bumps and scrapes, but the housing remains intact. The glass is still clear and scratch-free, exceeding my expectations.
Cleaning the FastFire III is straightforward. A quick wipe with a lens cloth removes any smudges or debris. I’ve only had to replace the battery once so far, which is impressive, thanks to the automatic time-out feature.
Compared to my previous experiences with lower-quality red dots, the Burris FastFire III has been a significant upgrade. Its durability, ease of use, and consistent performance have made it a reliable addition to my setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Burris FastFire III Reflex Red Dot Sight, 8 MOA – 1 out of 2 models
Specifications
Magnification: 1x, allowing for both-eyes-open shooting, crucial for situational awareness and rapid target acquisition. This is a vital feature, especially for dynamic shooting scenarios.
Dot Size: 8 MOA (Minute of Angle), offering a balance between speed and precision. It’s large enough for quick target acquisition but small enough for accurate shots at reasonable distances.
Brightness Settings: Three manual brightness settings plus an automatic brightness adjustment. This versatility ensures optimal visibility in various lighting conditions.
Battery Type: CR1632, a common and readily available battery type. The easy top-mounted access to the battery compartment is a major convenience.
Mount: Includes Picatinny/Weaver mount for broad compatibility. It can be mounted on rifles, handguns, and tactical shotguns.
Construction: High-grade optical glass with Index-matched Hi-Lume multi-coating. This ensures excellent brightness, clarity, and low-light performance, while eliminating glare.
Durability: Waterproof and Shockproof design, built to withstand years of punishing recoil. This gives users confidence in its reliability.
Warranty: Burris Forever Warranty, offering peace of mind and long-term support. This reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in the product.
Performance & Functionality
The Burris FastFire III Reflex Red Dot Sight performs admirably in its intended role. It provides rapid target acquisition, improves accuracy, and enhances overall shooting experience. It has a great level of performance.
Its strengths lie in its simplicity and effectiveness. The automatic brightness adjustment works seamlessly, and the manual settings offer fine-tuning for specific conditions. However, the 8 MOA dot might be too large for precision shooting at longer ranges.
The FastFire III meets and largely exceeds my expectations. Its ease of use, durability, and consistent performance make it a worthwhile investment. It performs perfectly.
Design & Ergonomics
The FastFire III features a compact and lightweight design. This ensures it doesn’t affect the firearm’s balance or handling.
The build quality is excellent, with durable materials and a robust housing. It has a very high build quality. The top-mounted battery compartment is a clever design choice. There isn’t a steep learning curve for most users.
Durability & Maintenance
The Burris FastFire III is built to last. Its waterproof and shockproof design inspires confidence in its long-term reliability.
Maintaining the sight is simple. Regular cleaning with a lens cloth keeps it in optimal condition. The Burris Forever Warranty provides additional peace of mind.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Burris FastFire III comes with a Picatinny/Weaver mount. This allows it to be readily attached to a wide range of firearms.
While there aren’t many customization options specific to the sight itself, its compatibility with standard mounting systems allows for use with various aftermarket risers and adapters. The Burris mounting system offers versatility.
Pros and Cons of Burris FastFire III Reflex Red Dot Sight, 8 MOA – 1 out of 2 models
Pros
- Rapid Target Acquisition: The bright red dot allows for quick and easy aiming, significantly improving target acquisition speed.
- Compact and Lightweight: It won’t affect firearm balance or handling, making it ideal for tactical applications.
- Automatic Brightness Adjustment: Seamlessly adjusts to environmental conditions, ensuring optimal visibility in any lighting.
- Durable Construction: Waterproof and shockproof design ensures years of reliable use, even with heavy recoil.
- Easy Battery Access: The top-mounted battery compartment allows for quick and easy battery changes without removing the sight.
Cons
- 8 MOA Dot Size: The dot size might be too large for precision shooting at longer ranges.
- Parallax: Some parallax shift is noticeable at extreme angles, though it doesn’t significantly affect accuracy at practical distances.
Who Should Buy Burris FastFire III Reflex Red Dot Sight, 8 MOA – 1 out of 2 models?
The Burris FastFire III Reflex Red Dot Sight is perfect for tactical shooters, home defense enthusiasts, and hunters looking for a reliable and easy-to-use red dot sight. It is especially well-suited for shotguns and AR-style rifles where rapid target acquisition is crucial.
This product is not ideal for precision shooters who require a smaller dot size for long-range accuracy. Those seeking the absolute highest level of optical clarity and minimal parallax might also consider higher-end options.
A must-have accessory is a quality lens cleaning kit to keep the glass clear and free from smudges. Additionally, consider a riser mount if you need to co-witness with iron sights on an AR-style rifle.
Conclusion on Burris FastFire III Reflex Red Dot Sight, 8 MOA – 1 out of 2 models
The Burris FastFire III Reflex Red Dot Sight, 8 MOA – 1 out of 2 models is a compelling optic that delivers on its promises of speed, accuracy, and durability. Its compact size, automatic brightness adjustment, and easy battery access make it a user-friendly choice for a variety of shooting applications.
The price is justified by its solid performance, durable construction, and the peace of mind offered by the Burris Forever Warranty. It’s a great option for those seeking a reliable red dot sight without breaking the bank.
I would definitely recommend the Burris FastFire III to anyone looking to upgrade their firearm with a fast and accurate optic. It’s a reliable and effective tool that will enhance your shooting experience. Consider adding the Burris FastFire III to your setup and experience the difference it can make!