My first impression of Burris FastFire RD 1x 35.5mm 2 MOA Red Dot Sight
For years, I’ve been a firm believer in iron sights, meticulously honing my skills to achieve rapid target acquisition and precise shot placement. However, the shifting demands of tactical scenarios and the increasing prevalence of red dot optics piqued my curiosity, leading me to explore the Burris FastFire RD 1x 35.5mm 2 MOA Red Dot Sight. The promise of faster target acquisition and enhanced accuracy in low-light conditions was too enticing to ignore.
I’ve always been a Burris fan, appreciating their reputation for ruggedness and clear glass. My aging eyes were also starting to struggle with iron sights in certain lighting, so the FastFire RD seemed like a viable solution. This red dot sight promised to be a lightweight, durable, and easy-to-use optic, designed to improve accuracy and speed in various shooting applications.
Upon unboxing the Burris FastFire RD, I was immediately struck by its compact size and lightweight design. The matte black finish exuded a tactical aesthetic, and the overall build quality felt solid and robust. Unlike some competitors that felt plasticky, the FastFire RD felt like it could withstand the rigors of real-world use.
I considered other options like the Trijicon RMR and Aimpoint Micro T-2, but their significantly higher price points made them less appealing for my initial foray into red dot sights. The Holosun 507C was also a contender, but I ultimately chose the Burris FastFire RD for its simpler design and the Burris reputation. My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of skepticism, hoping it would live up to the hype and address my specific needs.
Real-World Testing: Putting Burris FastFire RD 1x 35.5mm 2 MOA Red Dot Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Burris FastFire RD was at my local shooting range, mounted on my trusty AR-15. I wanted to gauge its performance under controlled conditions before subjecting it to more demanding scenarios. The weather was clear, but slightly overcast, providing a good test of the red dot’s visibility in varying light.
I immediately noticed the rapid target acquisition offered by the 2 MOA dot. It was significantly faster than aligning iron sights, especially at distances beyond 50 yards. The bright red dot was easy to see against various backgrounds, and the unlimited eye relief allowed for comfortable shooting from different positions.
After about 100 rounds, I noticed that the dot became slightly less crisp around the edges. This seemed to resolve itself as I continued to shoot and adjust the brightness. I attributed it to my eye fatigue as well as the slight astigmatism I have.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Burris FastFire RD has proven to be a reliable and durable optic. I’ve taken it through several range sessions, a weekend-long tactical training course, and even a rainy deer hunting trip. The finish has held up well, showing only minor signs of wear around the edges.
I was impressed with its performance during the tactical training course, where I subjected it to rapid fire drills and dynamic movement. It maintained zero throughout the entire course and the battery lasted. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a lens cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris.
Compared to iron sights, the FastFire RD has significantly improved my speed and accuracy, especially in low-light conditions. This red dot sight has exceeded my expectations and become an indispensable part of my gear.
Breaking Down the Features of Burris FastFire RD 1x 35.5mm 2 MOA Red Dot Sight
Specifications
The Burris FastFire RD 1x 35.5mm 2 MOA Red Dot Sight boasts a 1x magnification, making it ideal for close- to medium-range shooting. Its 35.5mm objective lens provides a wide field of view, enhancing situational awareness.
The sight features a 2 MOA dot reticle, offering a precise aiming point without obscuring the target. It is finished in a durable matte black, reducing glare and preventing reflections.
With an unlimited eye relief, the FastFire RD allows for flexible mounting options and comfortable shooting from various positions. The sight weighs only 6.40 oz, adding minimal weight to the firearm.
The FastFire RD runs on a single AAA battery, offering a long battery life. Its overall length is 2.80 inches, making it a compact and unobtrusive optic.
Performance & Functionality
The Burris FastFire RD excels in rapid target acquisition and enhanced accuracy. Its 2 MOA dot allows for precise aiming, even at extended ranges.
The sight’s brightness settings are easily adjustable, ensuring optimal visibility in various lighting conditions. Its unlimited eye relief provides a comfortable and forgiving shooting experience. The easy-to-use controls and intuitive design contribute to its overall usability.
While the FastFire RD excels in most areas, the lack of automatic brightness adjustment could be a minor drawback for some users. The battery life could also be slightly improved, but this is easily mitigated by carrying a spare AAA battery. Overall, the Burris FastFire RD meets and exceeds expectations for a red dot sight in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Burris FastFire RD features a rugged and durable design, built to withstand the rigors of real-world use. The matte black finish is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, reducing glare and reflections.
Its compact size and lightweight design make it a comfortable addition to any firearm. The sight is user-friendly, with intuitive controls and a minimal learning curve. The adjustable brightness settings are easily accessible, allowing for quick adjustments in varying lighting conditions.
Durability & Maintenance
The Burris FastFire RD is built to last, with a robust housing that can withstand bumps and impacts. The lens is coated to resist scratches and smudges, ensuring clear visibility.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only a lens cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris. The battery compartment is easily accessible, allowing for quick and convenient battery replacement. With proper care, the Burris FastFire RD should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Burris FastFire RD comes with a Picatinny mount, allowing for easy attachment to a wide range of firearms. Burris also offers additional mounting options for specific platforms, such as handguns and shotguns.
While the FastFire RD itself has limited customization options, it is compatible with various aftermarket accessories, such as lens protectors and risers. Users can also choose from different mounting solutions to achieve the desired height and position on their firearm.
Pros and Cons of Burris FastFire RD 1x 35.5mm 2 MOA Red Dot Sight
Pros
- Fast Target Acquisition: The 2 MOA dot allows for quick and easy target acquisition, improving speed and accuracy.
- Durable Build Quality: The robust housing and scratch-resistant lens ensure long-lasting performance in demanding environments.
- Unlimited Eye Relief: Provides a comfortable and forgiving shooting experience from various positions.
- Lightweight Design: Adds minimal weight to the firearm, maintaining balance and maneuverability.
- Affordable Price Point: Offers excellent value for the money, making it accessible to a wide range of shooters.
Cons
- No Auto-Brightness Adjustment: Requires manual adjustment of brightness settings, which can be inconvenient in rapidly changing lighting conditions.
- Battery Life: The battery life could be improved, but this can be easily mitigated by carrying a spare AAA battery.
Who Should Buy Burris FastFire RD 1x 35.5mm 2 MOA Red Dot Sight?
The Burris FastFire RD is perfect for:
- Hunters seeking faster target acquisition in low-light conditions.
- Tactical shooters needing a reliable and durable optic for dynamic situations.
- Competitive shooters looking to improve their speed and accuracy.
- Home defense enthusiasts wanting a user-friendly optic for quick deployment.
This product might not be ideal for users who require advanced features such as multiple reticle options or automatic brightness adjustment. Someone requiring extreme battery life should consider other options.
A must-have accessory for the Burris FastFire RD is a lens protector to safeguard against scratches and impacts. A riser mount may also be beneficial for achieving the optimal height and position on certain firearms.
Conclusion on Burris FastFire RD 1x 35.5mm 2 MOA Red Dot Sight
The Burris FastFire RD 1x 35.5mm 2 MOA Red Dot Sight is a reliable, durable, and user-friendly optic that offers excellent value for the money. Its fast target acquisition, robust build quality, and unlimited eye relief make it a versatile choice for a wide range of shooting applications.
The price is absolutely justified for the performance and quality you receive. The Burris FastFire RD is a fantastic upgrade for any firearm.
I would definitely recommend the Burris FastFire RD to anyone looking for a quality red dot sight without breaking the bank. Upgrade your shooting experience today with the Burris FastFire RD and see the difference it makes!