The Eotech HWS XPS3 1x 1 MOA / 68 MOA Red Ring / Dot Holographic Sight – CR123A Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, 30 yds @ 4″ Eye Relief Field of View, 1x Fixed Magnification Made a Bold First Impression
The Eotech HWS XPS3 1x 1 MOA / 68 MOA Red Ring / Dot Holographic Sight – CR123A Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, 30 yds @ 4″ Eye Relief Field of View, 1x Fixed Magnification arrives as a flagship optic from Eotech, promising rapid target acquisition and unwavering reliability. Its compact size and compatibility with night vision devices immediately set it apart in a crowded market.
I was searching for a holographic sight that could withstand the rigors of both tactical training and hunting in dense environments. My primary need was for a sight that offered a wide field of view and quick target acquisition, even under stress.
Unboxing the Eotech HWS XPS3, the first thing I noticed was its robust construction and relatively lightweight feel. The matte black finish looked durable, and the controls seemed easily accessible, even with gloves.
Compared to Aimpoint’s micro red dots, I chose the Eotech for its holographic display, believing the wider field of view and unique reticle would translate to faster target acquisition. Another sight I considered was the Vortex UH-1, but the XPS3‘s proven track record and smaller footprint ultimately swayed my decision.
My initial impression was excitement tempered with the typical Eotech price tag; however, I held high hopes that the performance would justify the investment. The expectation was for a battle-proven optic that would enhance my shooting capabilities in various scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Eotech HWS XPS3 1x 1 MOA / 68 MOA Red Ring / Dot Holographic Sight – CR123A Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, 30 yds @ 4″ Eye Relief Field of View, 1x Fixed Magnification to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Eotech HWS XPS3 at an outdoor shooting range during a tactical carbine course. The course involved rapid transitions between targets, shooting from unconventional positions, and simulated close-quarters combat scenarios.
The XPS3 performed admirably even when exposed to intermittent rain and dusty conditions, the sight picture remained clear and the controls were still easily manipulated. Its wide field of view allowed me to maintain situational awareness while quickly acquiring targets.
The Eotech proved intuitive to use right out of the box. Minimal adjustments were needed to zero the optic, and the brightness settings were easily adjustable to match the ambient light.
One initial surprise was the slight “parallax” effect common to holographic sights; however, this didn’t significantly impact accuracy in practical shooting scenarios. Despite this, the speed and ease of target acquisition far outweighed this minor quirk.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Eotech HWS XPS3 has proven to be a dependable optic. It has been mounted on several different rifles and consistently held zero.
The sight shows no significant signs of wear and tear despite being subjected to bumps and scrapes during training exercises. The housing appears to be incredibly durable and the glass remains pristine.
Maintaining the XPS3 is simple: occasional lens cleaning with a microfiber cloth and battery replacement are all that’s required. Its straightforward design contributes to its reliability and ease of maintenance.
Compared to my previous red dot sights, the Eotech XPS3 offers a noticeably faster and more intuitive shooting experience, especially when engaging multiple targets. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of speed and situational awareness, solidifying its place as my go-to optic for close to medium range engagements.
Breaking Down the Features of Eotech HWS XPS3 1x 1 MOA / 68 MOA Red Ring / Dot Holographic Sight – CR123A Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, 30 yds @ 4″ Eye Relief Field of View, 1x Fixed Magnification
Specifications
The Eotech HWS XPS3 boasts a 1x magnification, providing a true heads-up display without distortion. Its 1 MOA center dot within a 68 MOA ring offers a precise aiming point alongside a large, easily acquired reticle.
It operates on a single CR123A battery, offering up to 600 continuous hours of runtime at nominal setting 12 at room temp. This power source ensures a compact and lightweight design, while providing ample battery life for extended use.
The sight is submersible to 33 feet (10 meters) depth, demonstrating its ruggedness and suitability for use in harsh environments. This is an essential feature for anyone operating in unpredictable conditions.
Its unlimited eye relief allows for flexible mounting positions and shooting stances, enhancing comfort and adaptability. With a field of view of 30 yards at 4″ eye relief, the XPS3 provides a generous sight picture for rapid target acquisition.
The mount is compatible with both Weaver and MIL-STD-1913 rails, ensuring broad compatibility with various firearms. This versatility is a major advantage for users with multiple weapon platforms.
These specifications matter because they directly contribute to the optic’s speed, reliability, and adaptability in real-world scenarios. The combination of a robust design, intuitive reticle, and ample battery life makes the Eotech HWS XPS3 a top contender in its class.
Performance & Functionality
The Eotech HWS XPS3 excels at rapid target acquisition, thanks to its large, easily visible holographic reticle. Its 1 MOA dot provides precise aiming for accurate shots, while the 68 MOA ring facilitates quick target acquisition in close quarters.
Its primary strength lies in its speed and situational awareness, allowing shooters to engage targets quickly and maintain a wide field of view. A minor weakness can be the slight reticle distortion at extreme edges of the sight picture; however, this rarely affects practical use.
The XPS3 meets and often exceeds expectations for close to medium range engagements. Its ability to perform reliably under diverse conditions makes it a trusted optic for both professional and recreational shooters.
Design & Ergonomics
The Eotech HWS XPS3 is constructed from durable materials, resulting in a robust yet relatively lightweight optic, weighing in at just 9.0 oz (255 g). Its compact size makes it ideal for use on carbines and other firearms where rail space is limited.
The controls are intuitively placed and easily accessible, even with gloved hands. The brightness adjustments are straightforward, and the sight is easy to zero with basic tools.
The XPS3 is user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. Its simple operation and robust design make it suitable for both experienced and novice shooters.
Durability & Maintenance
The robust construction of the Eotech HWS XPS3 suggests it will last for many years with proper care. The aluminum housing and protected lenses are designed to withstand the rigors of field use.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional lens cleaning and battery replacement. The optic is designed to be easily serviced, ensuring long-term reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Eotech HWS XPS3 comes with a basic hard case for storage and transportation. While it doesn’t include any specific accessories beyond the essentials, its rail compatibility allows for a wide range of customization options.
It is fully compatible with magnifiers, allowing users to extend their effective range when needed. Night vision compatibility further enhances its versatility, making it suitable for low-light operations.
The XPS3‘s Weaver/MIL-STD-1913 rail mount ensures compatibility with a vast array of aftermarket mounts and accessories, providing ample customization options.
Pros and Cons of Eotech HWS XPS3 1x 1 MOA / 68 MOA Red Ring / Dot Holographic Sight – CR123A Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, 30 yds @ 4″ Eye Relief Field of View, 1x Fixed Magnification
Pros
- Rapid target acquisition due to the large, intuitive holographic reticle.
- Durable and robust construction, capable of withstanding harsh conditions.
- Night vision compatible, enhancing versatility in low-light environments.
- Unlimited eye relief, allowing for flexible mounting positions and shooting stances.
- Compact and lightweight design, ideal for use on various firearms platforms.
Cons
- Relatively high price point compared to some red dot sights.
- Shorter battery life compared to some red dot options like Aimpoint.
Who Should Buy Eotech HWS XPS3 1x 1 MOA / 68 MOA Red Ring / Dot Holographic Sight – CR123A Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, 30 yds @ 4″ Eye Relief Field of View, 1x Fixed Magnification?
The Eotech HWS XPS3 is perfect for law enforcement officers, tactical shooters, and hunters who prioritize rapid target acquisition and situational awareness. It is also well-suited for those who require night vision compatibility for low-light operations.
Those who are extremely budget-conscious or prioritize maximum battery life might consider alternative red dot sights. Additionally, individuals who prefer a perfectly crisp, parallax-free reticle may find the holographic display less appealing than traditional red dot optics.
A magnifier is a must-have accessory for those who need to engage targets at longer ranges. A quality weapon light is also highly recommended for use in conjunction with the XPS3 in low-light conditions.
Conclusion on Eotech HWS XPS3 1x 1 MOA / 68 MOA Red Ring / Dot Holographic Sight – CR123A Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, 30 yds @ 4″ Eye Relief Field of View, 1x Fixed Magnification
The Eotech HWS XPS3 is a top-tier holographic sight that delivers exceptional performance in close to medium range engagements. Its rapid target acquisition, robust design, and night vision compatibility make it a valuable asset for tactical shooters and hunters alike.
The price is undoubtedly a significant consideration; however, the performance and reliability of the XPS3 largely justify the investment. It offers a unique shooting experience that is difficult to replicate with other types of optics.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Eotech HWS XPS3 to anyone seeking a high-performance holographic sight for their firearm. If you prioritize speed, durability, and versatility, the XPS3 is an excellent choice. Upgrade your accuracy and reaction time today – you won’t regret it.