My first impression of Holosun Black Anodize 1 X 20mm 2 MOA Red Dot/65 MOA Red Circle Multi Reticle
In a world saturated with red dot sights, the Holosun Black Anodize 1 X 20mm 2 MOA Red Dot/65 MOA Red Circle Multi Reticle promised something more: a versatile, durable, and technologically advanced optic designed to bridge the gap between close-quarters speed and medium-range precision. Holosun has built a solid reputation for packing high-end features into optics at accessible price points, and this particular model seemed poised to continue that trend, offering both a precise 2 MOA dot and a larger 65 MOA circle for rapid target acquisition. After years of relying on various optics in demanding environments, I was eager to see if this red dot could truly live up to the hype and carve out a place as a go-to optic for my rifles.
My search for a new red dot began with a growing frustration over the limitations of my existing optics. I needed an optic that could transition seamlessly from fast-paced drills at the range to the unpredictable scenarios of hog hunting in dense brush. The key was finding a balance between rapid target acquisition and the ability to make precise shots at extended ranges. Several other options were on my radar, including the Aimpoint PRO and the EOTech EXPS2, but the Holosun stood out due to its combination of features, including the multi-reticle system, solar failsafe, and shake-awake technology, all at a significantly lower price.
Upon unboxing the Holosun Black Anodize 1 X 20mm 2 MOA Red Dot/65 MOA Red Circle Multi Reticle, I was immediately struck by its robust construction and sleek design. The matte black anodized finish gave it a professional, no-nonsense look, and the 7075 T6 aluminum housing felt incredibly solid in my hands. Unlike some budget optics that feel flimsy and toy-like, this Holosun exuded quality and seemed ready to withstand serious abuse. My initial impression was one of pleasant surprise; it felt like I was holding a much more expensive optic.
Compared to my older Vortex Sparc AR, the Holosun offered a significantly wider field of view and a noticeably crisper reticle. While the Aimpoint PRO is renowned for its legendary durability and battery life, the Holosun‘s solar failsafe and multi-reticle system gave it a distinct edge in terms of versatility and adaptability. Ultimately, I chose the Holosun because it seemed to offer the best combination of features, performance, and value for my specific needs.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive; the Holosun Black Anodize 1 X 20mm 2 MOA Red Dot/65 MOA Red Circle Multi Reticle appeared to be a well-built, feature-rich optic that had the potential to significantly enhance my shooting capabilities. Now, the real test would be to see how it performed in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Holosun Black Anodize 1 X 20mm 2 MOA Red Dot/65 MOA Red Circle Multi Reticle to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Holosun Black Anodize 1 X 20mm 2 MOA Red Dot/65 MOA Red Circle Multi Reticle was a local shooting range, where I mounted it on my AR-15 carbine. The first thing I noticed was how quickly I could acquire targets with the 65 MOA circle reticle at close ranges. Moving between multiple targets felt incredibly natural, and the large circle made it easy to maintain situational awareness.
I also pushed the Holosun through its paces during a particularly wet and muddy range day. Despite the downpour, the optic maintained a clear and bright reticle, and the IP67 waterproof rating gave me peace of mind that it wouldn’t fail in the harsh conditions. No fogging, no dimming, just consistent performance, even when I was soaked to the bone. The side-mounted controls were easy to manipulate even with gloved hands, and the brightness adjustments were intuitive and effective.
It only took a few magazines to become comfortable with the Holosun. The sight picture was clear and uncluttered, and the 2 MOA dot provided excellent precision for longer-range shots. The shake-awake feature worked flawlessly, instantly activating the reticle when the rifle was moved. I was immediately impressed with the optic’s versatility and adaptability.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Holosun Black Anodize 1 X 20mm 2 MOA Red Dot/65 MOA Red Circle Multi Reticle has proven to be an incredibly reliable and durable optic. I’ve used it in a variety of environments, from the controlled setting of the range to the demanding conditions of hunting trips. The optic has consistently held zero, even after being subjected to significant recoil and rough handling.
There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the housing or lens. I’ve also found the optic to be incredibly easy to clean and maintain. A simple wipe with a lens cloth is usually all it takes to remove any dirt or grime. The battery life has also been exceptional, thanks to the combination of the solar failsafe and the shake-awake technology. I haven’t had to replace the battery yet, despite hundreds of hours of use.
Compared to my previous red dot sight, the Holosun has significantly outperformed it in terms of brightness, clarity, and durability. It’s also much more versatile, thanks to the multi-reticle system and the solar failsafe. Overall, the Holosun has exceeded my expectations and has become my go-to optic for my AR-15.
Breaking Down the Features of Holosun Black Anodize 1 X 20mm 2 MOA Red Dot/65 MOA Red Circle Multi Reticle
Specifications
The Holosun Black Anodize 1 X 20mm 2 MOA Red Dot/65 MOA Red Circle Multi Reticle is a non-magnified red dot sight designed for carbines and rifles. It features a 20mm objective lens and offers unlimited eye relief for comfortable shooting. The reticle options include a precise 2 MOA red dot, a larger 65 MOA red circle, or a combination of both.
The optic is constructed from durable 7075 T6 aluminum with a matte black anodized finish. It’s incredibly lightweight, weighing in at just 2.45 ounces, making it ideal for lightweight builds. It is also compact, with a length of 1.70″, a width of 1.35″, and a height of 1.60″. The Holosun offers 12 brightness settings (8 daytime and 4 night vision compatible) and utilizes a side-mounted control panel for easy adjustments.
The sight is powered by an internal rechargeable battery supplemented by a solar failsafe system, providing an exceptional battery life of up to 50,000 hours. It has an adjustment size of 1 MOA per click, with a windage and elevation adjustment range of 50 MOA. This Holosun is designed to fit the popular 509T footprint, further adding to its adaptability. The IP67 waterproof rating ensures reliable performance in harsh environmental conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Holosun Black Anodize 1 X 20mm 2 MOA Red Dot/65 MOA Red Circle Multi Reticle excels in its primary function: providing a clear and accurate aiming point for rapid target acquisition. The multi-reticle system offers unparalleled versatility, allowing the user to switch between a precise 2 MOA dot for longer-range shots and a larger 65 MOA circle for close-quarters engagements. The brightness settings are easily adjustable and provide ample illumination in both bright sunlight and low-light conditions.
The Holosun‘s strengths lie in its versatility, durability, and ease of use. The side-mounted controls are intuitive and easy to manipulate, even with gloved hands. The solar failsafe system provides an added layer of redundancy, ensuring that the optic will function even if the battery fails. The only potential weakness is the somewhat small size of the side buttons, which could be difficult to manipulate for users with larger hands.
Overall, the Holosun Black Anodize 1 X 20mm 2 MOA Red Dot/65 MOA Red Circle Multi Reticle meets and exceeds expectations for a red dot sight in its price range. It provides excellent accuracy, reliability, and usability in a compact and lightweight package.
Design & Ergonomics
The Holosun Black Anodize 1 X 20mm 2 MOA Red Dot/65 MOA Red Circle Multi Reticle features a robust and ergonomic design. The 7075 T6 aluminum housing provides excellent durability without adding unnecessary weight. The matte black anodized finish is both aesthetically pleasing and provides excellent corrosion resistance.
The optic is incredibly lightweight and compact, making it ideal for mounting on a variety of firearms. The side-mounted controls are easily accessible and intuitive to use. The included lower 1/3 cowitness mount provides a comfortable and natural shooting position. While the side buttons are small, their placement is well thought out and prevents accidental adjustments.
The design is inherently user-friendly. Mounting is straightforward, and zeroing the optic is a breeze thanks to the tactile and audible clicks of the windage and elevation adjustments. The shake-awake feature eliminates the need to manually turn the optic on and off, saving battery life and ensuring that it’s always ready to go.
Durability & Maintenance
The Holosun Black Anodize 1 X 20mm 2 MOA Red Dot/65 MOA Red Circle Multi Reticle is built to last. The 7075 T6 aluminum housing provides excellent protection against impacts and abrasions. The IP67 waterproof rating ensures reliable performance in harsh environmental conditions. The optic’s internal components are also designed to withstand the rigors of recoil and repeated use.
The optic is incredibly easy to maintain. A simple wipe with a lens cloth is usually all that’s needed to remove any dirt or grime. The battery is easily replaceable, and the solar failsafe system provides an added layer of redundancy in case the battery fails. With proper care and maintenance, the Holosun should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Holosun Black Anodize 1 X 20mm 2 MOA Red Dot/65 MOA Red Circle Multi Reticle comes with a comprehensive set of accessories, including a lower 1/3 cowitness mount, a rubber cover, a battery, a T10 L key, a manual, and a lens cloth. The included mount is compatible with Picatinny rails, making it easy to mount the optic on a wide variety of firearms.
While the optic itself doesn’t offer a lot of customization options, it is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories. The Holosun‘s 509T footprint means it can be adapted to a variety of mounting solutions including those produced by other manufacturers, further adding to its utility.
Pros and Cons of Holosun Black Anodize 1 X 20mm 2 MOA Red Dot/65 MOA Red Circle Multi Reticle
Pros
- Versatile Multi-Reticle System: The ability to switch between a 2 MOA dot and a 65 MOA circle provides unparalleled versatility for different shooting scenarios.
- Solar Failsafe System: The solar panel provides an added layer of redundancy and extends battery life, ensuring reliable performance in all conditions.
- Durable Construction: The 7075 T6 aluminum housing and IP67 waterproof rating provide excellent protection against impacts, abrasions, and harsh weather.
- Shake-Awake Technology: The optic instantly activates when the firearm is moved, saving battery life and ensuring that it’s always ready to go.
- Lightweight and Compact: The optic’s lightweight and compact design makes it ideal for mounting on a variety of firearms without adding unnecessary bulk.
Cons
- Small Side Buttons: The side-mounted control buttons are somewhat small and may be difficult to manipulate for users with larger hands or when wearing thick gloves.
- Internal Rechargeable Battery: While the solar failsafe mitigates this concern, the reliance on an internal rechargeable battery as opposed to a standard replaceable battery may be a drawback for some users.
Who Should Buy Holosun Black Anodize 1 X 20mm 2 MOA Red Dot/65 MOA Red Circle Multi Reticle?
The Holosun Black Anodize 1 X 20mm 2 MOA Red Dot/65 MOA Red Circle Multi Reticle is perfect for carbine and rifle owners looking for a versatile, durable, and reliable optic for a wide range of applications. This includes tactical shooters, home defense enthusiasts, and hunters who need a sight that can perform in both close-quarters and medium-range engagements. It’s also a great choice for anyone building a lightweight AR-15 or other modern sporting rifle.
Those who might want to skip this product are users who prioritize extreme battery life over all other features and need an optic that can run for years on a single battery. Although the Holosun boasts impressive battery life, dedicated users focused solely on that aspect might lean towards optics designed with that singular goal in mind.
A must-have accessory for the Holosun is a high-quality lens cleaning kit to ensure a clear sight picture in all conditions. Additional batteries are also a good idea, although the solar failsafe system makes them less critical.
Conclusion on Holosun Black Anodize 1 X 20mm 2 MOA Red Dot/65 MOA Red Circle Multi Reticle
The Holosun Black Anodize 1 X 20mm 2 MOA Red Dot/65 MOA Red Circle Multi Reticle is an outstanding optic that offers an exceptional blend of performance, features, and value. Its versatile multi-reticle system, durable construction, and solar failsafe technology make it a reliable and adaptable choice for a wide range of shooting applications.
The price of $269.99 is well justified, considering the optic’s feature set and performance. The Holosun offers comparable performance to much more expensive optics from other manufacturers, making it an excellent value for the money.
I would personally recommend the Holosun Black Anodize 1 X 20mm 2 MOA Red Dot/65 MOA Red Circle Multi Reticle to anyone looking for a high-quality red dot sight that won’t break the bank. It’s a versatile, durable, and reliable optic that will enhance your shooting experience in a variety of environments. If you’re in the market for a new red dot sight, I highly encourage you to give the Holosun a try; you won’t be disappointed.
