First Impressions of ADE Advanced Optics Zantitium PRO Series Motion Awake Red Dot Sight
The ADE Advanced Optics Zantitium PRO Series Motion Awake Red Dot Sight promises a lot: a large viewing window, motion-activated system, and multiple reticle options all at a price point that significantly undercuts the competition. The ADE Advanced Optics brand isn’t exactly a household name, but their history as a private label manufacturer piqued my interest, suggesting they know how to produce optics, even if their branding isn’t as established. I was hoping to find a budget-friendly red dot that could hold its own against more expensive options.
I was looking for a red dot sight to mount on my Glock 19 for home defense and occasional range trips. I wanted something with a large field of view for faster target acquisition and a motion-activated system to ensure it’s always ready when needed. I’ve used Holosun and Trijicon red dots in the past, but I was curious if this more affordable option could deliver similar performance.
The Zantitium PRO arrived in a simple cardboard box. The sight itself felt surprisingly solid for its weight, and the anodized finish looked decent. The included tools, Picatinny plate, and lens cloth were a nice touch, indicating ADE Advanced Optics paid attention to the details.
I considered the Vortex Venom and Burris FastFire 3, both in the same general price range, but the Zantitium PRO’s larger window and motion-activated system ultimately swayed me. I was initially excited, but also a bit skeptical given the price point. I was eager to see if it could live up to its claims.
Real-World Testing: Putting ADE Advanced Optics Zantitium PRO Series Motion Awake Red Dot Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the ADE Advanced Optics Zantitium PRO Series Motion Awake Red Dot Sight at my local indoor shooting range. The range offered a controlled environment with consistent lighting, allowing me to focus on the sight’s performance. I ran about 200 rounds through my Glock 19, focusing on target acquisition speed and reticle clarity.
The large window was immediately noticeable, making it much easier to find the red dot quickly. Even under the range’s bright lights, the red dot was crisp and clear. I found the motion-activated system worked flawlessly, instantly waking up the sight with even a slight movement of the pistol.
There weren’t any major issues during the first range session, although I did notice the brightness needed adjustment depending on the target’s background. Also, the controls felt a little mushy, lacking the tactile feedback of higher-end optics.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the ADE Advanced Optics Zantitium PRO Series Motion Awake Red Dot Sight has held up surprisingly well. I’ve used it in a couple of outdoor training sessions as well, experiencing everything from sunny days to light rain. The sight’s IP67 waterproof rating gave me peace of mind during the wet conditions.
There are a few minor scratches on the anodized finish from holster wear, but the lens remains clear and scratch-free. I’ve only had to replace the battery once, which is expected with a motion-activated optic. Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe with the included lens cloth keeps it clean.
Compared to my previous experience with a Trijicon RMR, the Zantitium PRO doesn’t offer the same level of ruggedness or battery life, but for the price difference, it’s a very capable optic. It exceeds the performance of other budget red dots I’ve tested, such as some cheaper models from Bushnell.
Breaking Down the Features of ADE Advanced Optics Zantitium PRO Series Motion Awake Red Dot Sight
Specifications
The ADE Advanced Optics Zantitium PRO Series Motion Awake Red Dot Sight boasts several noteworthy specifications. It features a 35mm objective lens diameter, providing a wide field of view, and is constructed from 6061 aircraft aluminum for durability. The sight offers a multi-reticle system, allowing users to switch between a 32 MOA circle with 2 MOA dot, a 2 MOA dot only, or a 32 MOA ring only.
The sight is powered by a common CR2032 battery and incorporates a motion-activated system for extended battery life. It is fogproof and weighs only 1 oz, making it lightweight and suitable for pistol use. The adjustment click value is 1 MOA, allowing for precise zeroing, and it utilizes a Docter footprint for mounting.
These specifications contribute to the sight’s overall performance and usability. The large lens and multiple reticle options enhance target acquisition, while the lightweight design ensures it doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to the firearm. The motion-activated system and top-load battery compartment offer convenience and ease of use.
Performance & Functionality
The ADE Advanced Optics Zantitium PRO Series Motion Awake Red Dot Sight performs admirably for its price point. Accuracy is good, holding zero well even after repeated use and minor bumps. The motion-activated system is reliable and responsive, ensuring the sight is always ready when needed. The multiple reticle options provide versatility for different shooting scenarios.
The brightness adjustment could be more granular, and the buttons are a bit mushy. Also, the glass clarity isn’t quite on par with high-end optics. Overall, it meets expectations for a budget-friendly red dot, offering a good balance of performance and affordability.
Design & Ergonomics
The ADE Advanced Optics Zantitium PRO Series Motion Awake Red Dot Sight features a functional and relatively ergonomic design. The 6061 aircraft aluminum construction provides a solid feel, while the lightweight design prevents excessive weight on the pistol. The large viewing window offers an excellent field of view, enhancing situational awareness.
The buttons for reticle selection and brightness adjustment are easily accessible, although they lack tactile feedback. The top-load battery compartment is a convenient feature, allowing for quick and easy battery replacement without removing the sight. There is a slight learning curve to mastering the reticle switching, but it’s generally user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The ADE Advanced Optics Zantitium PRO Series Motion Awake Red Dot Sight appears reasonably durable for its price range. The aluminum housing provides adequate protection against bumps and scratches. The IP67 waterproof rating offers protection against rain and moisture, although I wouldn’t submerge it intentionally.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lens with a soft cloth. I expect it to last several years with proper care, although it likely won’t withstand the same level of abuse as a Trijicon or Aimpoint. Repairing may be difficult due to lack of readily available parts, so replacement might be the best option in case of significant damage.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ADE Advanced Optics Zantitium PRO Series Motion Awake Red Dot Sight comes with a few essential accessories, including a Picatinny mounting plate, tools for installation, a lens cloth, and a protective cover. The sight is designed to fit pistol optic plates compatible with the Doctor/Vortex Venom/Burris Fastfire footprint. It’s important to note that it does NOT fit RMR or Shield RMS type footprints.
There aren’t many customization options beyond selecting the appropriate mounting plate. Since it is compatible with the Doctor footprint, different height sights can be co-witnessed.
Pros and Cons of ADE Advanced Optics Zantitium PRO Series Motion Awake Red Dot Sight
Pros
- Large viewing window for fast target acquisition.
- Motion-activated system for extended battery life and instant readiness.
- Multiple reticle options (32 MOA circle with 2 MOA dot, 2 MOA dot only, or 32 MOA ring only) for versatility.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious shooters.
- Top-load battery compartment for easy battery replacement.
Cons
- Brightness adjustment buttons lack tactile feedback.
- Glass clarity is not as good as higher-end optics.
- Durability might not be on par with premium red dots.
Who Should Buy ADE Advanced Optics Zantitium PRO Series Motion Awake Red Dot Sight?
The ADE Advanced Optics Zantitium PRO Series Motion Awake Red Dot Sight is perfect for budget-conscious shooters who want a red dot with a large viewing window and motion-activated system for home defense, recreational shooting, or training. It’s also suitable for those who want to experiment with different reticle options without breaking the bank. This optic is excellent for shooters new to pistol red dots or those who need a reliable but affordable option for multiple firearms.
This product might not be the best choice for those who require extreme durability for demanding environments or those who prioritize the absolute best glass clarity and battery life above all else. Competitive shooters or law enforcement professionals might prefer a higher-end optic with proven reliability and ruggedness.
A must-have accessory is a quality mounting plate that matches the Doctor footprint of your pistol. A supply of CR2032 batteries is also recommended.
Conclusion on ADE Advanced Optics Zantitium PRO Series Motion Awake Red Dot Sight
The ADE Advanced Optics Zantitium PRO Series Motion Awake Red Dot Sight delivers impressive performance and features for its price point. The large viewing window, motion-activated system, and multiple reticle options make it a versatile and user-friendly optic. While it may not offer the same level of ruggedness or glass clarity as premium red dots, it provides excellent value for the money.
The price is definitely justified, considering the features and performance offered. The ADE Advanced Optics Zantitium PRO is a solid contender in the budget red dot market.
I would personally recommend the ADE Advanced Optics Zantitium PRO Series Motion Awake Red Dot Sight to anyone looking for an affordable and feature-rich red dot sight for their pistol. Give it a try and experience the benefits of a large viewing window and motion-activated system without breaking the bank!