The Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA Made a Bold First Impression
The Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA enters a crowded market of pistol optics, promising ruggedness and clarity. Viridian is known for its innovation, particularly in green laser technology, so this optic piqued my interest from the start. My initial curiosity stemmed from a need for a dependable optic on my everyday carry pistol.
I needed something that could withstand daily wear and tear and offer quick target acquisition in self-defense scenarios. The closed emitter design was a major selling point, promising protection against the elements. Upon unboxing, the RFX45 felt substantial, exhibiting a robust build quality that inspired confidence. It features a sleek, matte black finish.
Compared to the Holosun 507K and Trijicon RMRcc, the RFX45’s ACRO footprint stood out as unique. I chose the Viridian due to its closed emitter and the promise of enhanced durability. My first impression was positive; the optic felt like a serious piece of gear ready for hard use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA was at my local outdoor range. The weather was overcast with a slight drizzle. I mounted the optic on my Glock 19 using the included low Picatinny mount. The 5 MOA dot was easy to acquire, even in the less-than-ideal lighting conditions.
The optic performed admirably in the damp environment. Water beaded off the lens, and the enclosed emitter ensured a clear, unobstructed view. Initially, I needed a few magazines to dial in the zero, but once set, the dot remained consistent. There were no unexpected issues or malfunctions during the first outing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA continues to impress. I’ve subjected it to a variety of conditions, including a dusty tactical training course and a humid camping trip. The finish shows minimal signs of wear. Only slight marks are visible on the edges of the housing.
Maintenance has been straightforward. A quick wipe down with a microfiber cloth keeps the lens clean and clear. Compared to open emitter optics I’ve used, the RFX45 requires significantly less frequent cleaning due to its protected design. This optic has consistently outperformed my expectations for durability and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA
Specifications
- The Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA features a 5 MOA green dot, ideal for rapid target acquisition. The green dot is more visible to the human eye than red in certain lighting conditions.
- It has a 24×15.5mm objective lens, providing a generous field of view. The large lens size assists in quickly locating the dot.
- The optic utilizes the ACRO footprint, ensuring compatibility with a growing number of pistol slides and mounting plates. The ACRO footprint is known for its robust mounting.
- The RFX45 has a matte black finish, reducing glare and providing a tactical appearance. The finish also adds to the optic’s durability.
- It ships with a low Picatinny mount, making it easy to install on rifles or shotguns with a Picatinny rail. This adds versatility to the optic’s applications.
These specifications translate to a highly usable and adaptable optic. The 5 MOA dot balances precision and speed. The closed emitter design guarantees reliability regardless of environmental factors.
Performance & Functionality
The Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA excels in rapid target acquisition and maintaining zero. It has held zero consistently through hundreds of rounds fired across multiple platforms.
Its primary strength lies in its robust construction and protected emitter. This ensures reliability in harsh conditions, a significant advantage over open emitter designs. The only minor area for improvement might be the brightness adjustment. A slightly wider range of brightness settings would be beneficial. It more than meets my expectations for a duty-grade pistol optic.
Design & Ergonomics
The RFX45 boasts a streamlined, rugged design. The matte black finish is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
The controls are intuitive and easy to access, even with gloved hands. The weight is noticeable but acceptable, contributing to the overall feeling of durability. The optic’s design prioritizes functionality without sacrificing ergonomics.
Durability & Maintenance
The robust construction of the Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA suggests a long lifespan. The anodized aluminum housing provides excellent protection against impacts and abrasions.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning. The closed emitter design significantly reduces the need for frequent cleaning. Its durability inspires confidence that this optic will withstand years of hard use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA includes a low Picatinny mount. This increases its versatility by allowing it to be mounted on rifles and shotguns.
While Viridian doesn’t offer a wide range of proprietary accessories for the RFX45 at the moment, the ACRO footprint ensures compatibility with third-party mounting plates. This allows users to adapt the optic to various pistol slides. The ACRO footprint is becoming increasingly popular, which suggests more accessories will become available in the future.
Pros and Cons of Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA
Pros
- Closed emitter design provides superior protection against the elements. It makes the optic more reliable in harsh conditions.
- Crisp 5 MOA green dot allows for fast target acquisition. Green is easily visible in various lighting conditions.
- Robust construction ensures long-term durability. The optic can withstand significant abuse.
- ACRO footprint offers broad compatibility with mounting plates. Users have numerous mounting options.
- Included Picatinny mount adds versatility. The optic can be used on rifles and shotguns.
Cons
- Brightness adjustment range could be wider.
- Price point might be high for some users ($449.00).
Who Should Buy Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA?
The Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and individuals seeking a dependable optic for self-defense. It is also ideal for competitive shooters who value fast target acquisition and consistent performance.
This product might not be the best choice for casual shooters on a tight budget or those who prioritize ultra-lightweight optics.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality mounting plate specific to the user’s pistol slide. Consider a thread locker such as Loctite to ensure the optic remains secure.
Conclusion on Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA
The Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA is a well-built and reliable optic that delivers on its promises. Its rugged construction, protected emitter, and crisp green dot make it a top contender in the closed emitter optic market.
The price of $449.00 is justified by the optic’s performance, durability, and features. It is an investment in a dependable piece of gear.
I would confidently recommend the Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA to anyone seeking a rugged, reliable, and high-performing pistol optic. If you are ready to upgrade your pistol sighting system, give the Viridian RFX45 a serious look. You won’t be disappointed.
