The TruGlo TruBrite 1x 34mm 5 MOA Dual Illuminated Reticle Red Dot Sight – CR2032 Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, Wide Field of View, 1x Fixed Magnification Made a Bold First Impression
The TruGlo TruBrite 1x 34mm 5 MOA Dual Illuminated Reticle Red Dot Sight – CR2032 Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, Wide Field of View, 1x Fixed Magnification promises rapid target acquisition and versatility at a budget-friendly price. This optic from TruGlo aims to deliver a wide field of view and dual-illuminated reticle options for optimal performance in varying light conditions.
I was looking for an affordable red dot sight for a dedicated .22LR AR-15 build I was putting together for training and small game hunting. I needed something lightweight, reliable, and easy to use, without breaking the bank.
Out of the box, the TruGlo TruBrite felt surprisingly solid. The black anodized finish looked clean, and the controls seemed intuitive, despite its low price point. I immediately noted its compact design and the clear glass of the optic.
I was considering a Bushnell TRS-25 and a Sig Sauer Romeo5, both popular budget options. However, the dual illumination and larger objective lens of the TruGlo TruBrite swayed me, promising better visibility in different lighting conditions and faster target acquisition. The price also played a factor, being significantly less expensive than the Sig Sauer.
My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. The build quality exceeded my expectations for the price, but I reserved full judgment until I could put it through its paces at the range. I was eager to see if it would live up to its promises of reliable performance and enhanced target acquisition.
Real-World Testing: Putting TruGlo TruBrite 1x 34mm 5 MOA Dual Illuminated Reticle Red Dot Sight – CR2032 Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, Wide Field of View, 1x Fixed Magnification to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the TruGlo TruBrite to my local outdoor range, mounting it on my .22LR AR-15. The weather was partly cloudy, providing a mix of bright and shaded conditions, perfect for testing the dual illumination feature. Getting it zeroed at 25 yards was straightforward, using the included Allen wrench for adjustments.
The red dot was easy to see in the bright sunlight, and the green dot offered excellent contrast against the darker targets in the shade. Target acquisition was noticeably faster compared to using iron sights, making it a more enjoyable shooting experience. I did notice a slight parallax shift at the edges of the sight picture, more pronounced than in higher-end optics.
I experienced no immediate issues, and the sight held zero after about 200 rounds. The dot remained crisp, and the illumination settings were effective, but I did observe some distortion around the very edge of the lens, typical of budget optics.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the TruGlo TruBrite has proven to be surprisingly durable. It has withstood numerous range trips and even a couple of light rain showers. The finish shows some minor scuff marks from handling, but there are no signs of rust or corrosion.
Cleaning the lens is simple, requiring only a microfiber cloth to remove smudges and dust. I replaced the CR2032 battery after about 6 months of occasional use, which is reasonable. While not waterproof, it has handled light moisture without any fogging issues.
Compared to using basic iron sights on my AR-15, the TruGlo TruBrite has significantly improved my accuracy and speed at closer ranges. It doesn’t outperform my higher-end optics on my centerfire rifles, but it provides a great value for its intended purpose on a .22LR.
Breaking Down the Features of TruGlo TruBrite 1x 34mm 5 MOA Dual Illuminated Reticle Red Dot Sight – CR2032 Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, Wide Field of View, 1x Fixed Magnification
Specifications
The TruGlo TruBrite boasts a 1x fixed magnification with a 34mm objective lens. It features a 5 MOA dual illuminated reticle, offering both red and green dot options. It is powered by a single CR2032 battery, providing an estimated battery life of several hundred hours.
The sight has unlimited eye relief for flexible mounting options. It also provides a wide field of view for rapid target acquisition. The overall length of the unit is 3.48 inches.
The fixed magnification simplifies aiming for close-range targets. The 5 MOA dot size is a good balance between precision and visibility. The dual illumination ensures the reticle is visible in varying lighting conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The TruGlo TruBrite performs admirably for its intended purpose, offering enhanced target acquisition and accuracy for close to medium-range shooting. The dual color reticle provides excellent versatility for different environments.
Its strengths include ease of use, lightweight design, and affordable price. The weaknesses are the slight parallax at the edge of the lens and the limited magnification. For a budget-friendly optic, the performance significantly exceeds expectations.
The sight largely met my expectations. It offers a significant upgrade over iron sights on my .22LR, and its performance is more than adequate for plinking and small game hunting.
Design & Ergonomics
The TruGlo TruBrite features a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to mount on various firearms. The black anodized finish adds to its durability and aesthetic appeal. It feels relatively robust despite its price.
The sight is user-friendly, with intuitive controls for adjusting brightness and reticle color. There is minimal learning curve for first-time red dot users.
Durability & Maintenance
The TruGlo TruBrite is constructed from durable materials, designed to withstand typical use and handling. Its estimated lifespan is several years with proper care.
The sight is easy to maintain. The lens can be cleaned with a microfiber cloth, and the battery is easily replaceable.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TruGlo TruBrite includes an integrated Weaver-style mounting system. This allows for easy attachment to a wide range of firearms.
There are no specific customization options offered directly by TruGlo for this particular model. However, its standard mounting system allows for compatibility with aftermarket risers and other Weaver/Picatinny-compatible accessories. A riser could be used to get it to the correct height on an AR-15 platform.
Pros and Cons of TruGlo TruBrite 1x 34mm 5 MOA Dual Illuminated Reticle Red Dot Sight – CR2032 Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, Wide Field of View, 1x Fixed Magnification
Pros
- Affordable price: Offers excellent value for budget-conscious shooters.
- Dual illuminated reticle: Provides versatility in various lighting conditions.
- Wide field of view: Enhances target acquisition speed.
- Lightweight and compact: Easy to mount and handle on various firearms.
- Unlimited eye relief: Allows for flexible mounting positions.
Cons
- Slight parallax at the edge of the lens.
- Limited magnification: Not suitable for long-range shooting.
Who Should Buy TruGlo TruBrite 1x 34mm 5 MOA Dual Illuminated Reticle Red Dot Sight – CR2032 Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, Wide Field of View, 1x Fixed Magnification?
The TruGlo TruBrite 1x 34mm 5 MOA Dual Illuminated Reticle Red Dot Sight – CR2032 Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, Wide Field of View, 1x Fixed Magnification is perfect for:
- Casual shooters seeking a budget-friendly red dot sight.
- .22LR enthusiasts looking for an upgrade over iron sights.
- Hunters needing a close-range optic for small game.
- Training applications.
This product might not be ideal for:
- Long-range shooters requiring high magnification.
- Professionals needing extremely precise and durable optics.
A must-have accessory would be a quality lens cleaning kit. Also, consider a riser mount for optimal height on AR-style platforms.
Conclusion on TruGlo TruBrite 1x 34mm 5 MOA Dual Illuminated Reticle Red Dot Sight – CR2032 Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, Wide Field of View, 1x Fixed Magnification
The TruGlo TruBrite 1x 34mm 5 MOA Dual Illuminated Reticle Red Dot Sight – CR2032 Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, Wide Field of View, 1x Fixed Magnification offers a compelling value proposition. It provides reliable performance and enhanced target acquisition at a remarkably affordable price.
The price is definitely justified, considering its features and durability. It’s hard to find a comparable red dot sight with dual illumination and a wide field of view in the same price range.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for an entry-level red dot sight for plinking, training, or small game hunting. It’s a fantastic upgrade over iron sights without breaking the bank!
Ready to enhance your shooting experience? Grab the TruGlo TruBrite and see the difference for yourself!