AT3 Tactical 1x23mm 2 MOA Red Dot Micro Red Dot Reflex Sight w/ No Riser Review

First Impressions of AT3 Tactical 1x23mm 2 MOA Red Dot Micro Red Dot Reflex Sight w/ No Riser

The world of red dot sights is vast, ranging from budget-friendly options to high-end, military-grade optics. The AT3 Tactical 1x23mm 2 MOA Red Dot Micro Red Dot Reflex Sight w/ No Riser aims to strike a balance, offering a compact and reliable sighting solution without breaking the bank. AT3 Tactical promises a crisp 2 MOA dot, multiple brightness settings, and a durable build, all at an accessible price point.

My aging eyes were the catalyst for seeking a red dot; iron sights just weren’t cutting it anymore. I needed something that would allow for faster target acquisition and improved accuracy, particularly in low-light conditions, without adding significant weight or bulk to my AR pistol.

Upon unboxing the AT3 Tactical 1x23mm 2 MOA Red Dot Micro Red Dot Reflex Sight w/ No Riser, I was immediately impressed by its compact size and solid feel. The FDE Cerakote finish looked clean and professional, and the included CR2032 battery, already installed, was a welcome touch. Compared to a bulkier Holosun I had previously tested, this one seemed significantly lighter and less obtrusive.

I had been considering a Sig Sauer Romeo5, but the AT3 Tactical option’s lower price and comparable features swayed me. The Vortex Crossfire was another contender, but the AT3 Tactical sight’s more streamlined design and included features appealed to me more. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism – could this budget-friendly red dot actually deliver on its promises?


Real-World Testing: Putting AT3 Tactical 1x23mm 2 MOA Red Dot Micro Red Dot Reflex Sight w/ No Riser to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the AT3 Tactical 1x23mm 2 MOA Red Dot Micro Red Dot Reflex Sight w/ No Riser was at my local outdoor shooting range. I mounted it on my AR pistol and proceeded to zero it at 25 yards. The adjustments were positive and audible, and I quickly dialed it in.

The 2 MOA dot was crisp and clear, even in bright sunlight, and the 11 brightness settings allowed me to adapt to varying light conditions. During a light drizzle, I also noticed the waterproofing seemed to hold up perfectly, with no noticeable impact on performance. Acquiring targets felt significantly faster and more intuitive than with the iron sights, a welcome improvement.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the AT3 Tactical 1x23mm 2 MOA Red Dot Micro Red Dot Reflex Sight w/ No Riser has proven to be remarkably reliable. It has held zero consistently, even after hundreds of rounds and some fairly rough handling. There are a few minor scratches on the Cerakote finish, but nothing that impacts functionality.

Maintenance is simple: just a quick wipe down with a lens cloth after each range session. Compared to a more expensive Aimpoint I used to own, it doesn’t have the same level of ruggedness, but for the price, it’s holding up exceptionally well. Overall, it has significantly exceeded my initial expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of AT3 Tactical 1x23mm 2 MOA Red Dot Micro Red Dot Reflex Sight w/ No Riser

Specifications

  • The AT3 Tactical 1x23mm 2 MOA Red Dot Micro Red Dot Reflex Sight w/ No Riser features a 1x magnification with a 23mm objective lens. This provides a wide field of view and allows for both-eyes-open shooting.
  • It utilizes a 2 MOA red dot reticle, ideal for accurate shooting at various distances. A smaller MOA dot is generally preferred for precision shooting, while larger MOA dots are better for faster target acquisition at close ranges.
  • The sight body is constructed from 6061 Aluminum with an FDE Cerakote finish. This ensures durability and resistance to scratches and corrosion.
  • It weighs in at just 3.6 oz, making it a lightweight addition to any firearm. This is crucial for maintaining balance and maneuverability.
  • The sight is powered by a CR2032 battery, providing a long battery life. Having a common battery type ensures easy replacement when needed.
  • It is fully waterproof to a depth of 1 meter, ensuring reliable performance in wet conditions. This is a critical feature for outdoor use.
  • The sight offers 11 brightness settings, allowing for optimal visibility in any light condition. Adaptability to varying light conditions is essential for effective use in diverse environments.
  • It features multi-coated lenses for enhanced image clarity. Clearer optics lead to improved target acquisition and reduced eye strain.
  • The mount type is Weaver/Picatinny, providing compatibility with a wide range of firearms. Versatility in mounting options increases the sight’s usability across different platforms.

Performance & Functionality

The AT3 Tactical 1x23mm 2 MOA Red Dot Micro Red Dot Reflex Sight w/ No Riser excels at its primary function: providing a clear and accurate aiming point. The 2 MOA dot is sharp and easily visible, even for those with astigmatism (like myself). Target acquisition is significantly faster compared to iron sights, and the parallax-free design allows for consistent accuracy regardless of eye position.

The brightness settings are effective, providing a usable dot in both bright sunlight and low-light conditions. One minor weakness is that the brightness dial can be a bit stiff to turn, especially with gloved hands. However, once set, the brightness remains consistent. The AT3 Tactical red dot sight meets and slightly exceeds my expectations given its price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The AT3 Tactical 1x23mm 2 MOA Red Dot Micro Red Dot Reflex Sight w/ No Riser boasts a compact and lightweight design. The 6061 Aluminum construction feels robust, and the Cerakote finish provides a durable and attractive appearance. Its lightweight nature means it doesn’t add significant weight to the firearm, maintaining good balance and maneuverability.

The controls are simple and intuitive, with a single dial controlling the power and brightness settings. There is a slight learning curve to finding the right brightness setting for different conditions, but it quickly becomes second nature. Overall, the design prioritizes functionality and ease of use.

Durability & Maintenance

The AT3 Tactical 1x23mm 2 MOA Red Dot Micro Red Dot Reflex Sight w/ No Riser seems built to last, thanks to its aluminum construction and waterproof design. The Cerakote finish offers good scratch resistance, and the shockproof circuitry ensures it can withstand recoil and rough handling. With basic care, this red dot should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lens with a microfiber cloth. The battery compartment is easily accessible, allowing for quick and easy battery replacement. The AT3 Tactical’s simple design minimizes potential failure points.

Accessories and Customization Options

The AT3 Tactical 1x23mm 2 MOA Red Dot Micro Red Dot Reflex Sight w/ No Riser comes with a battery and basic mounting hardware. However, the true customization lies in its compatibility with standard Weaver and Picatinny rails. This opens up a world of possibilities for mounting on different firearms, from AR-15s to shotguns and pistols.

While this particular model doesn’t include a riser, the Weaver/Picatinny compatibility allows for easy addition of aftermarket risers to achieve the desired height over bore. The universal mounting system also makes it compatible with a wide range of aftermarket iron sights. This red dot sight’s greatest strength is its adaptability.

Pros and Cons of AT3 Tactical 1x23mm 2 MOA Red Dot Micro Red Dot Reflex Sight w/ No Riser

Pros

  • Crisp 2 MOA red dot for accurate shooting.
  • Extremely affordable compared to similar red dots.
  • Durable aluminum construction with Cerakote finish.
  • Lightweight and compact design.
  • Waterproof construction for reliable performance in wet conditions.

Cons

  • Brightness dial can be a bit stiff.
  • No automatic shutoff feature to preserve battery life.


Who Should Buy AT3 Tactical 1x23mm 2 MOA Red Dot Micro Red Dot Reflex Sight w/ No Riser?

The AT3 Tactical 1x23mm 2 MOA Red Dot Micro Red Dot Reflex Sight w/ No Riser is perfect for budget-conscious shooters looking for a reliable and accurate red dot sight. It’s ideal for AR-15 owners, pistol shooters, and anyone wanting to upgrade from iron sights without breaking the bank. This is a great entry level option for casual target practice or home defense.

This red dot sight might not be suitable for those who demand the absolute highest level of ruggedness or advanced features like automatic brightness adjustment. Those users who need advanced features may want to consider higher-end options like Aimpoint or EOTech. A must-have accessory would be a lens cleaning kit to keep the optics clear.

Conclusion on AT3 Tactical 1x23mm 2 MOA Red Dot Micro Red Dot Reflex Sight w/ No Riser

In summary, the AT3 Tactical 1x23mm 2 MOA Red Dot Micro Red Dot Reflex Sight w/ No Riser is a surprisingly capable optic for the price. It offers a clear and accurate red dot, durable construction, and a lightweight design, making it an excellent value proposition. The price is absolutely justified, especially considering its performance and durability.

I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable red dot sight. If you’re on a budget but don’t want to compromise on quality, the AT3 Tactical 1x23mm 2 MOA Red Dot Micro Red Dot Reflex Sight w/ No Riser is definitely worth considering. Upgrade your shooting experience today!

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