First Impressions of Falke B5x Red Dot Sight Magnifier w/ Flip-Up Mount
The Falke B5x Red Dot Sight Magnifier w/ Flip-Up Mount promises to bridge the gap between close-quarters and mid-range engagements, offering a seamless transition from rapid target acquisition to enhanced precision. Falke, a brand known for its German-engineered optics and rugged designs, has crafted a magnifier that aims to elevate the performance of any red dot sight. It’s a solution I’ve been searching for, to enhance my CQB setup for increased versatility.
For years, I’ve been a dedicated red dot user, favoring the speed and wide field of view they provide in dynamic situations. However, longer shots always required me to switch to a different platform equipped with a magnified optic. The promise of the Falke B5x Red Dot Sight Magnifier w/ Flip-Up Mount was to eliminate the need for multiple rifles by providing instant magnification when needed, and instant CQB ability with a push of a button.
My initial impression upon unboxing was one of substantial quality. The magnifier feels robust, thanks to its aluminum construction and hard anodized finish; the flip-up mount clicks securely into place. The glass appeared clear and multi-coated, hinting at excellent light transmission. Compared to some other magnifiers I’ve handled, this one seemed a step above in terms of fit and finish, notably better than a similar-priced UTG magnifier I used to own and more in line with a Holosun magnifier I’d tested but found too bulky.
I was particularly drawn to the Falke B5x Red Dot Sight Magnifier w/ Flip-Up Mount due to its advertised ruggedness and the reputation of Falke optics within European security forces. The price point, while not cheap, seemed reasonable for a German-engineered, purportedly bombproof optic. My initial excitement was high, tempered only by the knowledge that real-world performance would be the ultimate judge.
Real-World Testing: Putting Falke B5x Red Dot Sight Magnifier w/ Flip-Up Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Falke B5x Red Dot Sight Magnifier w/ Flip-Up Mount took place at my local shooting range, a 100-yard outdoor facility. I mounted it behind my Aimpoint PRO on my AR-15, zeroed at 50 yards. The weather was clear and sunny, providing optimal visibility.
The immediate improvement in target clarity was noticeable. The 5x magnification transformed my red dot into a viable mid-range optic, allowing me to easily identify and engage targets at 75 and 100 yards. The flip-up mechanism worked flawlessly, allowing for quick transitions between magnified and unmagnified views. One surprise was the relatively tight eye relief of 67mm; while not terrible, it required a more precise cheek weld than I was used to with my red dot alone.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, including multiple range trips and a weekend training course in varying weather conditions, the Falke B5x Red Dot Sight Magnifier w/ Flip-Up Mount has proven to be a reliable addition to my setup. The hard anodized finish has held up remarkably well, showing only minor scratches from normal use. Cleaning is simple – a quick wipe with a lens cloth keeps the glass clear.
Despite a few bumps and knocks during the training course, the zero has remained consistent. The flip-up mount continues to function smoothly and lock securely. Compared to my previous experience with a lower-quality magnifier, the Falke offers significantly better optical clarity and a more robust build. The only consistent annoyance remains the relatively short eye relief, requiring more mindful head positioning.
Breaking Down the Features of Falke B5x Red Dot Sight Magnifier w/ Flip-Up Mount
Specifications
The Falke B5x Red Dot Sight Magnifier w/ Flip-Up Mount boasts a 5x magnification, making it suitable for engaging targets at medium ranges. Its 30 mm objective lens diameter allows for ample light transmission.
Featuring 67 mm of eye relief, it requires careful head positioning for optimal viewing, which can be a slight drawback for some users. It is constructed from aluminum with a hard anodized finish for enhanced durability.
With a length of 3.76 inches, a width of 2.11 inches, and a height of 2.57 inches, the Falke B5x Red Dot Sight Magnifier w/ Flip-Up Mount adds minimal bulk to your firearm. Weighing in at 320 g (0.7 lb), it’s a lightweight addition.
The optical coating is fully multi-coated, enhancing light transmission and image clarity. The attachment type is a Quick Detach (QD) mount.
It is also waterproof. It’s important to note that the Country of Origin is China, despite being Precision Designed and Engineered in Germany.
Performance & Functionality
The Falke B5x Red Dot Sight Magnifier w/ Flip-Up Mount performs admirably in its intended role, providing clear and crisp magnified views when needed. Accuracy is maintained, as the magnifier simply enhances the existing red dot sight’s aiming point.
The main strength is its ability to quickly transition between close and medium-range engagements. The Quick Disconnect Mount locks securely onto the rail and returns to zero reliably after being detached and reattached. The relatively short eye relief is a weakness, requiring a consistent cheek weld for optimal viewing. It does meet my expectations, but the eye relief can be bothersome during dynamic drills.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with the aluminum housing feeling solid and well-constructed. Despite the robust construction, the magnifier remains relatively lightweight, minimizing added bulk to the firearm.
The flip-up mount is intuitive and easy to operate, allowing for quick transitions. The diopter adjustment allows for fine-tuning the focus to individual eyesight.
Durability & Maintenance
The hard anodized finish and rugged construction suggest that the Falke B5x Red Dot Sight Magnifier w/ Flip-Up Mount is built to last. After several months of use, there are no signs of significant wear or damage.
Maintenance is straightforward: cleaning the lenses with a quality lens cloth is all that’s required. The nitrogen-filled and polymer-coated noise-dampened optics should further ensure longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Falke B5x Red Dot Sight Magnifier w/ Flip-Up Mount comes with a Quick Disconnect Mount and an additional adapter piece to change the height if needed. There are no other readily available accessories specifically designed for the magnifier itself.
It’s compatible with any standard Picatinny rail system, allowing it to be paired with a wide variety of red dot sights from different brands. The height adapter piece allows for better co-witnessing with different red dot models.
Pros and Cons of Falke B5x Red Dot Sight Magnifier w/ Flip-Up Mount
Pros
- High-quality glass provides a clear and crisp magnified view.
- Durable construction with a hard anodized aluminum housing.
- Quick Disconnect Mount allows for fast and secure attachment/detachment.
- Flip-Up To Side mechanism allows for instant transitions between magnified and unmagnified views.
- Repeatable zero after detachment and reattachment.
Cons
- Relatively short eye relief can be restrictive for some users.
- The swing lever can come in a silver color which is not the same as some of the photos.
Who Should Buy Falke B5x Red Dot Sight Magnifier w/ Flip-Up Mount?
The Falke B5x Red Dot Sight Magnifier w/ Flip-Up Mount is perfect for tactical shooters, law enforcement personnel, and hunters who require the versatility of both a red dot sight and a magnified optic. It’s well-suited for anyone who wants to enhance the effective range of their existing red dot setup without the need for switching to a dedicated magnified optic.
This product may not be ideal for those who prioritize maximum eye relief or those who primarily engage targets at very long ranges. A user with a high-end optic setup may not find this product as useful as it is designed to be more budget friendly.
A must-have accessory would be a quality lens cleaning kit to maintain the clarity of the multi-coated lenses. Experimenting with different red dot sight mounting heights may also be beneficial to achieve optimal co-witnessing with the magnifier.
Conclusion on Falke B5x Red Dot Sight Magnifier w/ Flip-Up Mount
The Falke B5x Red Dot Sight Magnifier w/ Flip-Up Mount is a well-built and functional optic that offers a significant upgrade to any red dot sight setup. The optical clarity is impressive, the construction is robust, and the flip-up mechanism works flawlessly.
While the relatively short eye relief may be a drawback for some, the overall performance and versatility of this magnifier make it a worthwhile investment. The price is justified by the quality of the product and the enhanced capabilities it provides.
I would definitely recommend the Falke B5x Red Dot Sight Magnifier w/ Flip-Up Mount to anyone looking to extend the range of their red dot sight without sacrificing close-quarters maneuverability. Upgrade your optic today and experience the difference!