What Makes Burris FastFire 4 Reflex Red Dot Sight, Circle Dot Stand Out?
Reflex sights have become increasingly popular for their speed and ease of use. The Burris FastFire 4 Reflex Red Dot Sight, Circle Dot aims to deliver those advantages with added versatility. Burris, a respected name in optics, promises a durable, adaptable, and intuitive sight with this model. The ability to toggle between four reticle options sets this optic apart from many competitors.
I’ve spent years using various red dots in challenging environments. I was looking for a sight that offered flexibility in different shooting scenarios. This sight’s reticle versatility, coupled with Burris’s reputation, drew me to this product.
Unboxing the FastFire 4, I immediately noticed its compact size and seemingly robust construction. The matte black finish and the overall design exuded a sense of quality. The sight felt lightweight, a critical factor for maintaining weapon balance, yet solid.
Compared to my older Trijicon RMR and Aimpoint Micro, the FastFire 4 stood out due to its reticle options. While those optics are known for their ruggedness and clarity, they lack the adaptability offered by the Burris. I chose the FastFire 4 for its versatility and potential to adapt to various needs. My initial impression was positive, intrigued by the potential of its four reticle choices.
Real-World Testing: Putting Burris FastFire 4 Reflex Red Dot Sight, Circle Dot to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at an outdoor shooting range, simulating dynamic shooting scenarios. I mounted the FastFire 4 on my AR-15 pistol, using a Picatinny rail adapter. I wanted to evaluate its performance during rapid target acquisition.
The weather was typical for that time of year: sunny with a slight breeze, but the dry conditions were expected. The sight window provided a clear and unobstructed view, even in bright sunlight. The brightness adjustment, both manual and automatic, worked flawlessly, adapting to the ambient light. It was incredibly easy to switch between the 2.75 MOA dot, 6 MOA dot, circle dot, and circle dot with wings reticles.
The sight required minimal adjustment. After zeroing at 25 yards, I was quickly engaging targets with impressive speed and accuracy. No, I did not need much time to get used to this particular optic.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the FastFire 4 has proven to be a reliable performer. I’ve used it in several training scenarios including low light and dusk. The housing has held up well, showing only minor cosmetic wear from handling.
The sight is easy to clean, requiring only a lens cloth to remove smudges. The battery life has also been impressive, easily lasting through numerous range sessions.
The Burris has exceeded my expectations compared to some other red dots I have used. The ability to adapt the reticle has been a game-changer, allowing me to tailor it to specific shooting situations. It has proven to be a valuable addition to my setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Burris FastFire 4 Reflex Red Dot Sight, Circle Dot
Specifications
- Magnification: 1x, providing a true heads-up display without any image enlargement or distortion. This is essential for maintaining situational awareness in dynamic environments.
- Reticle: Multiple options including 2.75 MOA dot, 6 MOA dot, circle dot, and circle dot with wings. This versatility allows users to choose the best reticle for the shooting scenario.
- Eye Relief: Infinite eye relief means you can mount the sight at any distance from your eye without sacrificing accuracy. This offers greater flexibility in mounting positions.
- Nitrogen Filled: No, this unit is not nitrogen filled to prevent fogging. However, it is waterproof.
- Waterproof: Yes, the sight is sealed to prevent water damage during adverse weather conditions. This adds confidence when operating in wet environments.
- Weight: 1.6 oz, making it one of the lightest reflex sights on the market. This minimizes added weight to your firearm.
Performance & Functionality
The Burris FastFire 4 delivers excellent performance across various shooting scenarios. The reticle options allow for precise aiming or rapid target acquisition, depending on user preference. The adjustments are tactile and precise, making zeroing straightforward.
The sight’s strengths lie in its versatility and user-friendliness. The weather shield is also a plus. The primary weakness is that without the weather shield, the optic is more prone to damage to the glass. It meets and often exceeds expectations, particularly in scenarios where adaptability is crucial.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the FastFire 4 is impressive for its size and weight. The materials feel durable, and the overall design is sleek and functional. The sight sits low on the firearm, minimizing interference with other accessories.
The FastFire 4 is incredibly user-friendly, with intuitive controls for brightness adjustment and reticle selection. The large sight window provides a generous field of view. There is minimal learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The FastFire 4 is designed to withstand harsh conditions. Burris has a reputation for building durable optics. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
The sight requires minimal maintenance, primarily consisting of cleaning the lens with a lens cloth. The battery compartment is easily accessible. Replacement is quick and simple.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Burris FastFire 4 comes with a manual, lens cloth, and tool(s) for adjustment. The included weather shield is a valuable addition, providing extra protection. It’s compatible with any firearm equipped with a Picatinny rail adapter, allowing for versatile mounting options.
While there are no specific Burris accessories for this model, its compatibility with standard Picatinny mounts means users can easily add risers or other accessories. Its adaptability makes it a solid pick.
Pros and Cons of Burris FastFire 4 Reflex Red Dot Sight, Circle Dot
Pros
- Versatile Reticle Options: Offers four different reticles, adapting to various shooting scenarios and personal preferences. This allows users to optimize the sight for different applications.
- Lightweight Design: Weighing only 1.6 oz, it adds minimal weight to the firearm, preserving balance and maneuverability. Ideal for rapid target acquisition and dynamic shooting.
- User-Friendly Controls: Intuitive brightness adjustments and reticle selection. Even a novice shooter can quickly master its operation.
- Durable Construction: Built with quality materials, designed to withstand harsh conditions. Provides reliability and longevity in demanding environments.
- Long Battery Life: Up to 26,000 hours on medium brightness ensures extended use without frequent battery changes.
Cons
- Open Emitter Design: Without the weather shield, the open emitter design can be vulnerable to debris. Could cause potential for obstruction in extreme conditions.
- No integrated night vision settings: This might be a dealbreaker for users who require night vision compatibility.
Who Should Buy Burris FastFire 4 Reflex Red Dot Sight, Circle Dot?
The Burris FastFire 4 Reflex Red Dot Sight, Circle Dot is perfect for shooters who value adaptability. This includes tactical shooters, competitive shooters, and hunters who might encounter varying target distances or environmental conditions. The sight is also ideal for those seeking a lightweight and user-friendly optic.
This product might not be the best choice for individuals who prioritize extreme ruggedness above all else. Others who might want to skip this would include those requiring night vision compatibility.
A must-have accessory is a quality Picatinny rail mount for secure and repeatable zeroing.
Conclusion on Burris FastFire 4 Reflex Red Dot Sight, Circle Dot
The Burris FastFire 4 Reflex Red Dot Sight, Circle Dot offers a compelling combination of versatility, user-friendliness, and durability. The ability to switch between four reticles is a standout feature, making it a valuable asset in various shooting scenarios. At $379.99, the price is justified by its performance and adaptability.
I would recommend the Burris FastFire 4 to anyone looking for a flexible and reliable reflex sight. Its compact size, intuitive controls, and durable construction make it an excellent choice for a wide range of firearms. Experience the difference – upgrade your shooting game with the Burris FastFire 4 today!