My first impression of EPS Carry Round 2MOA
The EPS Carry Round 2MOA from Holosun promises a compact, enclosed red dot sight solution for concealed carry pistols, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype. As someone who’s spent over a decade evaluating tactical gear, I understand the critical importance of a reliable optic, especially in a defensive context. The enclosed design was particularly appealing, offering superior protection compared to open reflex sights, a crucial factor when considering the rigors of everyday carry.
What drew me to the EPS Carry Round 2MOA was the need for a smaller, more robust optic for my everyday carry pistol. I wanted a sight that could withstand the bumps and scrapes of daily life without sacrificing accuracy or clarity. I was previously using a larger red dot, but its bulk made it less comfortable and more difficult to conceal effectively.
Unboxing the EPS Carry Round 2MOA, I was immediately impressed by its compact size and solid feel. The aluminum housing felt robust, and the glass lens was clear and crisp. It weighed next to nothing.
Compared to other micro red dots on the market, such as the Trijicon RMRcc or the Shield RMSc, the EPS Carry Round 2MOA stood out due to its enclosed emitter and shake-awake technology. I chose this Holosun model because I valued the added protection of the enclosed design and the convenience of the automatic on/off feature. This promised enhanced reliability and battery life.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The EPS Carry Round 2MOA seemed well-built and thoughtfully designed, but the true test would come on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting EPS Carry Round 2MOA to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the EPS Carry Round 2MOA to my local shooting range to zero it on my Glock 43X MOS. The initial zeroing process was straightforward. I dialed in the adjustments quickly. The 2 MOA dot was crisp and easy to see, even in bright sunlight.
During that range session, the weather was partly cloudy with intermittent rain showers. I was pleased to see the rain didn’t affect the sight picture or the optic’s performance. The controls were still easy to manipulate, even with wet hands.
The EPS Carry Round 2MOA was surprisingly intuitive to use. I was able to quickly acquire targets and maintain a consistent sight picture. After a few practice draws and dry fire drills, I felt confident with the optic’s placement and function. There were no issues to note.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily carry and regular range sessions, the EPS Carry Round 2MOA has proven to be exceptionally reliable. It has withstood the daily abuse of being bumped against door frames, scraped against car seats, and exposed to sweat and grime. I also used it in a three-day defensive pistol course where it was exposed to rain, mud, and dirt.
Despite this constant wear and tear, the EPS Carry Round 2MOA shows very minimal signs of cosmetic damage. The lens remains clear, and the aluminum housing has held up admirably. I wipe it down with a microfiber cloth every week or so, and that’s been sufficient to keep it clean and functioning perfectly.
Compared to my previous open-emitter red dot sight, the EPS Carry Round 2MOA is significantly more durable and requires less frequent cleaning. The enclosed emitter design eliminates the risk of debris obstructing the laser. The shake-awake feature has also proven to be a significant improvement, conserving battery life without sacrificing readiness.
Breaking Down the Features of EPS Carry Round 2MOA
Specifications
The EPS Carry Round 2MOA boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance:
- Magnification: 1x – Offers a true, unmagnified sight picture for rapid target acquisition.
- Objective: 0.58″ x 0.77″ – Provides a generous window size for comfortable viewing.
- Eye Relief: Unlimited – Allows for flexible head positioning without distortion.
- DOT Size: 2 MOA – Offers a precise aiming point for accurate shot placement.
- Length: 1.62″ – Keeps the overall footprint compact and unobtrusive.
- Weight: 1.23 oz – Adds minimal weight to the firearm for comfortable carry.
- Battery: CR1620 – Provides long-lasting power.
These specifications translate to a lightweight, compact, and accurate optic that is well-suited for concealed carry. The 2 MOA dot size strikes a good balance between precision and ease of acquisition, and the unlimited eye relief makes it easy to use in a variety of shooting positions. The CR1620 battery provides ample power for extended use.
Performance & Functionality
The EPS Carry Round 2MOA performs exceptionally well in its intended role as a concealed carry optic. Its accuracy is excellent, thanks to the crisp 2 MOA dot. I’ve consistently achieved tight groupings at 15 yards, and I’ve been able to make accurate shots out to 25 yards with practice.
The optic has proven to be incredibly reliable, with no malfunctions or issues to report after months of use. It consistently turns on when the pistol is drawn, and it holds zero even after being subjected to significant recoil.
One minor weakness is the size of the adjustment turrets. They are quite small and can be difficult to manipulate with gloved hands. However, this is a minor inconvenience that doesn’t significantly impact the overall performance.
Overall, the EPS Carry Round 2MOA meets and exceeds my expectations for a concealed carry optic. It’s accurate, reliable, and easy to use, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their pistol’s sighting system.
Design & Ergonomics
The EPS Carry Round 2MOA features a robust and well-thought-out design. The aluminum housing is durable and lightweight, and the enclosed emitter design provides excellent protection against the elements.
The optic is incredibly user-friendly, with simple and intuitive controls. The brightness adjustments are easily accessible, and the shake-awake feature works flawlessly. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its rugged construction and enclosed design, the EPS Carry Round 2MOA is expected to last for many years with proper care. The aluminum housing is resistant to scratches and impacts, and the lens is coated to prevent fogging and glare.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. A quick wipe down with a clean cloth is all that’s typically required to keep the optic in good working order.
Accessories and Customization Options
The EPS Carry Round 2MOA comes with a few essential accessories, including a mounting plate, screws, and a Torx wrench.
While there are no specific customization options offered directly by Holosun, the EPS Carry Round 2MOA is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, such as co-witness iron sights and alternative mounting plates.
Pros and Cons of EPS Carry Round 2MOA
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design ideal for concealed carry.
- Enclosed emitter provides superior protection and reliability.
- Shake-awake technology conserves battery life and ensures readiness.
- Crisp 2 MOA dot offers excellent accuracy.
- Durable aluminum housing withstands daily wear and tear.
Cons
- Small adjustment turrets can be difficult to manipulate with gloved hands.
- CR1620 battery, while long-lasting, is less common than other sizes.
Who Should Buy EPS Carry Round 2MOA?
The EPS Carry Round 2MOA is perfect for:
- Individuals seeking a durable and reliable red dot sight for concealed carry.
- Those who prioritize a compact and lightweight optic that won’t add excessive bulk to their pistol.
- Shooters who appreciate the added protection of an enclosed emitter design.
Who should skip this product? Shooters who require a larger optic for competition or long-range shooting may find the EPS Carry Round 2MOA too small.
Must-have accessories or modifications? Co-witness iron sights are highly recommended for backup in case of battery failure.
Conclusion on EPS Carry Round 2MOA
The EPS Carry Round 2MOA is an outstanding optic that delivers exceptional performance in a compact package. Its enclosed emitter, shake-awake technology, and durable construction make it an ideal choice for concealed carry.
The price of $329.99 is justified by the optic’s quality, reliability, and feature set. In my opinion, it is well worth the investment for anyone serious about personal defense.
I wholeheartedly recommend the EPS Carry Round 2MOA to anyone looking for a top-tier red dot sight for their concealed carry pistol. Upgrade your defensive setup today and experience the confidence that comes with using reliable and accurate equipment.