Let’s Talk About Bushnell RXU-200 1x21mm Reflex Red Dot Sights, 6 – 1 out of 2 models
Red dot sights have revolutionized the way we aim, providing faster target acquisition and improved accuracy, especially on pistols. I’ve spent over a decade in the outdoor and tactical gear world, and I’ve seen countless optics come and go. The Bushnell RXU-200 1x21mm Reflex Red Dot Sight, 6 MOA Dot Reticle caught my attention because of its ultra-compact size and its compatibility with the popular SHIELD RMSc footprint.
I was looking for a red dot to mount on my Springfield Hellcat, aiming for the smallest possible footprint to maintain concealability without sacrificing performance. I was tired of bulky optics that added unnecessary weight and printing under clothing. The Bushnell RXU-200 promised a minimalist design without compromising durability, so I decided to give it a try.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the sight’s diminutive size and apparent ruggedness. The 7075-T6 aluminum housing felt solid, and the glass lens looked clear and well-coated. Compared to larger red dots like the Trijicon RMR or Holosun 507K, the RXU-200 seemed almost impossibly small.
I chose the RXU-200 over the RXC-200 due to its shorter profile, as I wanted the most discreet setup possible for concealed carry. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; the sight looked well-made, but I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world shooting scenarios. I was excited to mount it and get it on the range!
Real-World Testing: Putting Bushnell RXU-200 1x21mm Reflex Red Dot Sights, 6 – 1 out of 2 models to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Bushnell RXU-200 primarily at my local shooting range and during a few force-on-force training sessions. The weather conditions varied from sunny and dry to overcast and drizzly. Mounting the optic on my Springfield Hellcat was straightforward, thanks to the SHIELD RMSc footprint.
The auto-brightness adjustment worked surprisingly well, adapting quickly to changing light conditions both indoors and outdoors. I found the 6 MOA dot easy to acquire, even under stress during rapid-fire drills. After the first range session, I was pleased with the sight’s performance, though I did notice a slight fisheye effect around the edges of the lens.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Bushnell RXU-200 has held up remarkably well. There are no noticeable scratches or dings on the housing, despite occasionally bumping it against doorframes and other objects during daily carry. Cleaning the lens is simple with the included Bushnell Spudz cloth, and the EXO Barrier coating seems to repel water and dust effectively.
The battery life has been impressive, easily exceeding my initial expectations. Compared to some of my previous experiences with budget-friendly red dots, the RXU-200 has proven to be significantly more reliable and durable. The zero has remained consistent, requiring minimal adjustments even after hundreds of rounds.
Breaking Down the Features of Bushnell RXU-200 1x21mm Reflex Red Dot Sights, 6 – 1 out of 2 models
Specifications
The Bushnell RXU-200 is a micro-reflex sight designed for compact pistols that accept the SHIELD RMSc footprint. Key specifications include a 1x magnification, a 21mm objective lens, and a 6 MOA red dot reticle. The housing is machined from rugged 7075-T6 aircraft-grade billet aluminum.
It features an always-on dot with auto-ambient brightness adjustment. The RXU-200 also boasts an EXO Barrier hydrophobic lens coating and an IPX7 waterproof rating (submersible up to 1 meter for 30 minutes). Power is supplied by a common CR2032 battery, providing up to 50,000 hours of runtime in indoor lighting conditions.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the sight’s performance, durability, and user-friendliness. The 7075-T6 aluminum ensures the optic can withstand recoil and rough handling, while the EXO Barrier coating and IPX7 rating provide protection against the elements. The auto-brightness adjustment ensures the dot is always visible and appropriately bright, and the long battery life minimizes the need for frequent battery changes.
Performance & Functionality
The Bushnell RXU-200 performs exceptionally well for its size. Accuracy is excellent, and the 6 MOA dot is easy to see and use for quick target acquisition. I have found it to be extremely reliable.
One of the strengths of the RXU-200 is its simplicity. The auto-brightness feature works seamlessly, and there are no buttons or switches to fumble with. A minor weakness is the small window size, which can feel slightly restrictive compared to larger optics, but this is the trade-off for its ultra-compact profile. Overall, it meets my expectations for a concealed carry red dot.
Design & Ergonomics
The Bushnell RXU-200 is designed with a focus on minimalism and functionality. The build quality is excellent, and the sight feels solid and well-made. Weighing in at just over an ounce, it adds minimal bulk to the pistol.
The low-profile design and rounded edges help prevent snagging during draws, making it ideal for concealed carry. The sight is incredibly user-friendly, with no learning curve required. It integrates seamlessly with pistols that accept the SHIELD RMSc footprint.
Durability & Maintenance
The Bushnell RXU-200 is built to last, thanks to its rugged aluminum housing and protective lens coatings. I expect it to withstand years of regular use and abuse. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lens with a soft cloth.
The waterproof rating provides added peace of mind, ensuring the sight will function reliably even in wet conditions. So far, the finish is showing no signs of wear, indicating it can withstand daily use in challenging conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bushnell RXU-200 comes with a Bushnell Spudz cleaning cloth. Aftermarket rail mount adapters are available for use on other platforms. Since it utilizes the SHIELD RMSc footprint, it’s compatible with a wide range of pistols and mounting plates.
There are no included accessories beyond the cleaning cloth, but the compatibility with standard RMSc mounts provides plenty of customization options. This allows users to adapt it for use on different firearms beyond just compact pistols.
Pros and Cons of Bushnell RXU-200 1x21mm Reflex Red Dot Sights, 6 – 1 out of 2 models
Pros
- Ultra-compact and lightweight design is ideal for concealed carry.
- Rugged 7075-T6 aluminum housing provides excellent durability.
- Auto-brightness adjustment works seamlessly in various lighting conditions.
- Long battery life ensures reliable performance.
- EXO Barrier coating repels water and dust for clear visibility.
Cons
- Smaller window size may feel restrictive to some users.
- No manual brightness adjustment.
Who Should Buy Bushnell RXU-200 1x21mm Reflex Red Dot Sights, 6 – 1 out of 2 models?
The Bushnell RXU-200 is perfect for individuals looking for a compact and reliable red dot sight for concealed carry. It is ideal for those who prioritize a minimalist footprint and snag-free design. Those who want a simple, always-on optic that requires minimal setup and maintenance will also find it appealing.
This product might not be the best choice for competitive shooters who require a larger window or manual brightness controls. Anyone who prefers a more feature-rich optic with multiple reticle options might also want to consider other alternatives. A must-have accessory is a quality holster designed to accommodate a red dot-equipped pistol.
Conclusion on Bushnell RXU-200 1x21mm Reflex Red Dot Sights, 6 – 1 out of 2 models
Overall, the Bushnell RXU-200 1x21mm Reflex Red Dot Sight, 6 MOA Dot Reticle is an excellent optic for concealed carry. It offers a compelling combination of compact size, rugged durability, and reliable performance. At a price of $209.99, the RXU-200 represents a solid value proposition.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone seeking a minimalist red dot for their compact pistol. If you value concealability, durability, and ease of use, the Bushnell RXU-200 is a worthwhile investment. Upgrade your EDC today and experience the enhanced accuracy and speed that a red dot sight can provide!