The Leupold DeltaPoint Micro 1x 3 MOA Red Dot Sight – CR1632 Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, 1x Fixed Magnification, 2.25″ Length Made a Bold First Impression
The Leupold DeltaPoint Micro 1x 3 MOA Red Dot Sight immediately struck me as a game-changer for concealed carry. This isn’t just another red dot; it’s a solution meticulously crafted for compact pistols, addressing the common problem of bulky optics hindering concealability.
I’ve spent years tweaking my carry setup, constantly seeking that perfect balance of effectiveness and discretion. Aging eyes made iron sights a struggle, and I resisted traditional slide-mounted red dots due to their added bulk and the cost of slide modifications. The Leupold DeltaPoint Micro’s promise of direct dovetail mounting and a minimal profile piqued my interest instantly.
Unboxing the DeltaPoint Micro, I was impressed by its compact form factor and solid construction. The matte black finish appeared durable, and the sight felt surprisingly lightweight yet robust. The integration of the rear sight into the optic’s housing was a clever design element, maintaining the factory sight picture.
Compared to options like the Trijicon RMRcc (which requires slide milling) or the Shield RMS2 (which, while small, doesn’t offer the same integrated rear sight solution), the DeltaPoint Micro seemed like the most streamlined and user-friendly choice. Its promise of co-witnessing with the front sight without needing suppressor height irons sealed the deal. My initial excitement was high, tempered by the hope that its real-world performance would match its innovative design.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold DeltaPoint Micro 1x 3 MOA Red Dot Sight – CR1632 Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, 1x Fixed Magnification, 2.25″ Length to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the DeltaPoint Micro on my Glock 43 at my local indoor range. Mounting was straightforward using the provided tools and instructions; the sight fit snugly into the dovetail and required minimal adjustment. The immediate co-witness with my factory front sight was a massive relief.
The 3 MOA red dot was crisp and clear, making target acquisition significantly faster than with iron sights alone. Even in the somewhat dimly lit indoor range, the dot was easily visible at the higher illumination settings. I ran several drills, focusing on speed and accuracy; the DeltaPoint Micro helped me shave off valuable fractions of a second on my draw and presentation.
I didn’t encounter any issues during the initial range session, which consisted of approximately 200 rounds of 9mm. The dot remained stable, and the sight maintained its zero. I was impressed by how intuitive it felt to use; the transition from iron sights to the red dot was seamless, thanks to the co-witnessed sight picture.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Leupold DeltaPoint Micro has proven to be remarkably reliable. I’ve carried it daily in a variety of conditions, from the dry heat of the desert to humid summer days, and it has performed flawlessly. There are no signs of significant wear and tear; the finish has held up well, and the dot remains bright and clear.
Maintenance is simple; I occasionally wipe down the lens with a microfiber cloth to remove dust and debris. Battery life seems consistent with Leupold’s claims; I haven’t needed to replace the CR1632 battery yet. Compared to other optics I’ve used, the DeltaPoint Micro excels in its combination of small size, ease of use, and rugged reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold DeltaPoint Micro 1x 3 MOA Red Dot Sight – CR1632 Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, 1x Fixed Magnification, 2.25″ Length
Specifications
The Leupold DeltaPoint Micro boasts a 1x fixed magnification, making it ideal for close-quarters engagements. Its 3 MOA red dot provides a clear aiming point without obscuring the target. The sight is powered by a CR1632 battery, offering a claimed runtime of several years on medium settings.
It features unlimited eye relief, allowing for flexible shooting positions and quick target acquisition. The sight’s housing is made from rugged aluminum, ensuring durability and resistance to recoil. The 2.25″ length and low-profile design minimize bulk and maintain concealability. These specifications combine to create a red dot that is both effective and unobtrusive.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold DeltaPoint Micro excels in its primary function: enhancing target acquisition and improving accuracy. The 3 MOA dot is easy to see in a variety of lighting conditions, and the eight levels of illumination allow for fine-tuning to match the ambient light. The integrated rear sight ensures that you always have a backup aiming solution if the battery fails.
One potential weakness is the battery compartment location, requiring removal of the optic for battery replacement. However, the long battery life mitigates this inconvenience. Overall, the DeltaPoint Micro exceeds expectations, providing a significant improvement in shooting performance while maintaining a low profile.
Design & Ergonomics
The DeltaPoint Micro’s design prioritizes simplicity and functionality. The low profile and integrated rear sight result in a clean, uncluttered appearance. The controls are easy to access and operate, even with gloves. The sight feels well-balanced on the pistol and doesn’t add noticeable weight.
The lack of adjustable windage and elevation knobs might be a concern for some, but the included adjustment tool makes zeroing relatively straightforward. The overall design is user-friendly, even for those new to red dot sights on pistols.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum housing of the Leupold DeltaPoint Micro is built to withstand the rigors of daily carry and regular shooting. The lens is scratch-resistant, and the electronics are protected from moisture. The sight is easy to clean; a simple wipe with a microfiber cloth is usually sufficient.
With proper care, the DeltaPoint Micro should last for many years, providing reliable performance in demanding conditions. The long battery life also reduces the need for frequent maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold DeltaPoint Micro comes with the necessary tools for mounting and zeroing, as well as a battery. While it doesn’t offer extensive customization options in terms of external modifications, its compatibility with standard Glock and Smith & Wesson M&P dovetails ensures a secure and reliable fit.
Its primary customization lies in the brightness adjustment, allowing users to fine-tune the dot’s intensity to their specific needs and preferences. Aftermarket support for the DeltaPoint Micro is somewhat limited due to its unique design, but this is offset by its self-contained and highly functional nature.
Pros and Cons of Leupold DeltaPoint Micro 1x 3 MOA Red Dot Sight – CR1632 Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, 1x Fixed Magnification, 2.25″ Length
Pros
- Directly mounts to the rear sight dovetail, eliminating the need for slide milling.
- Maintains a low profile, preserving concealability.
- Integrated rear sight co-witnesses with the front sight.
- Clear 3 MOA red dot with eight levels of illumination.
- Rugged aluminum construction for enhanced durability.
Cons
- Requires removal of the optic to replace the battery.
- Limited compatibility; currently only fits Glock and Smith & Wesson M&P handguns.
Who Should Buy Leupold DeltaPoint Micro 1x 3 MOA Red Dot Sight – CR1632 Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, 1x Fixed Magnification, 2.25″ Length?
The Leupold DeltaPoint Micro is perfect for concealed carry permit holders who want to improve their accuracy and target acquisition speed without sacrificing concealability. It is also ideal for law enforcement officers or security personnel who carry compact pistols as backups or off-duty weapons.
Anyone looking for a simple, reliable, and low-profile red dot sight for their Glock or Smith & Wesson M&P pistol should strongly consider the DeltaPoint Micro. Those who require adjustable windage and elevation turrets or who own pistols other than compatible Glock and M&P models should explore other options. A high-quality holster designed for red dot-equipped pistols is a must-have accessory to ensure safe and comfortable carry.
Conclusion on Leupold DeltaPoint Micro 1x 3 MOA Red Dot Sight – CR1632 Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, 1x Fixed Magnification, 2.25″ Length
The Leupold DeltaPoint Micro 1x 3 MOA Red Dot Sight is a well-designed and highly functional optic that fills a crucial niche in the concealed carry market. Its innovative mounting system, low profile, and clear red dot make it a significant upgrade over traditional iron sights.
At a price of $299.99, the DeltaPoint Micro represents a solid value proposition, offering premium performance without the expense of slide modifications. I wholeheartedly recommend the Leupold DeltaPoint Micro to anyone seeking to enhance their concealed carry pistol with a red dot sight. Upgrade your carry pistol today and experience the difference!