The Firefield Impulse Compact with Laser 1x 22m Dual Illuminated Red Dot Sight – CR2032 Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, 1x Fixed Magnification, 3.54″ Length Made a Bold First Impression
The Firefield Impulse Compact with Laser 1x 22m Dual Illuminated Red Dot Sight promises rapid target acquisition and precise shot placement, all within a compact and lightweight package. Marketed towards target shooters and hunters seeking an affordable and versatile optic, the Impulse combines a red dot sight with an integrated red laser, offering flexibility in various lighting conditions. My initial interest was piqued by the promise of a red dot and laser combo at such an attractive price point, a feature-rich optic that wouldn’t break the bank.
I was looking for a budget-friendly optic to mount on my AR-22 dedicated for plinking and small game hunting. I wanted something lightweight that offered both a red dot for quick target acquisition and a laser for low-light situations. After years of lugging around heavier, more expensive optics, I was seeking a minimalist solution for close-quarters shooting.
Upon unboxing, the Firefield Impulse presented a decent first impression. The matte black finish and aluminum construction felt reasonably solid for its price range, although the overall feel was definitely “budget.” The included Aimpoint T1 mount compatibility was a nice surprise.
Compared to the Sig Sauer Romeo5 or the Holosun HS403B, the Firefield Impulse is noticeably less refined. I considered those options, but the integrated laser and the significantly lower price of the Firefield swayed my decision. The others were great red dots but I wanted to play with laser aiming.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The features were appealing, and the price was undeniably attractive, but the build quality raised some concerns. I was eager to see how it would perform under real-world conditions, hoping it could overcome my initial reservations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Firefield Impulse Compact with Laser 1x 22m Dual Illuminated Red Dot Sight – CR2032 Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, 1x Fixed Magnification, 3.54″ Length to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Firefield Impulse at an indoor shooting range. The controlled environment allowed me to zero both the red dot and the laser with relative ease. The unlimited eye relief was immediately appreciated, allowing for comfortable shooting from various positions.
During that first range session, the optic was put through about 200 rounds. The Impulse struggled to maintain zero, requiring frequent adjustments.
It took a while to get used to the reticle options, switching between the red and green circle dot. The laser, while visible, was significantly dimmer than higher-end models. I quickly noticed that the screw of the laser became loose during the range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Firefield Impulse revealed both its strengths and its weaknesses. While the red dot sight itself held up reasonably well for casual target shooting, the integrated laser proved to be unreliable. The laser module frequently malfunctioned, flickering intermittently and eventually failing altogether after approximately 500 rounds.
The aluminum construction showed some signs of wear and tear. The matte black finish began to chip around the edges. The adjustment turrets felt increasingly loose.
Maintenance was simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a microfiber cloth. However, the unreliable laser module made long-term reliability a significant concern. It did not outperform my previous experiences with budget optics.
Breaking Down the Features of Firefield Impulse Compact with Laser 1x 22m Dual Illuminated Red Dot Sight – CR2032 Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, 1x Fixed Magnification, 3.54″ Length
Specifications
Battery: CR2032 powers the red dot, offering a common and easily replaceable power source. This is a standard battery type.
Eye Relief: Unlimited eye relief provides flexibility in mounting and shooting positions. This makes it easier to acquire the reticle quickly.
Finish: Matte Black reduces glare and provides a tactical aesthetic. The finish is fairly durable for the price.
Length: 3.54″ is relatively compact, making it suitable for lightweight builds. This small footprint won’t add unnecessary weight.
Objective Diameter: 11-30mm offers a decent field of view for close-quarters shooting. The size is adequate for quick target acquisition.
Magnification: 1x Fixed provides a true representation of the target without distortion. This is ideal for close to medium range engagements.
Performance & Functionality
The Firefield Impulse offers decent performance as a basic red dot sight. Target acquisition is relatively quick and easy, and the unlimited eye relief is a definite plus. The red or green reticle illumination allows shooters to adapt to different lighting conditions.
However, the integrated red laser is a significant weak point. Its inconsistent performance and eventual failure detract from the overall functionality of the optic. It has some strengths but definitely needs improvement.
The sight met my expectations for a very budget optic; it did not exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The Firefield Impulse features a relatively compact and lightweight design. This is beneficial for maintaining a balanced firearm. The aluminum construction feels reasonably solid for its price point, though the overall build quality is far from premium.
The sight is easy to mount and zero, and the adjustment turrets are reasonably accessible. The learning curve is minimal, making it user-friendly for both novice and experienced shooters.
Durability & Maintenance
The Firefield Impulse’s durability is questionable, particularly regarding the integrated laser module. The optic itself may last for a reasonable amount of time with careful use. The laser module is likely to fail prematurely.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning. However, the unreliable laser makes long-term durability a significant concern.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Firefield Impulse is compatible with Aimpoint T1-style mounts, opening up a range of aftermarket mounting options. This allows users to customize the height and offset of the optic to their preferences. No accessories are included other than mounting hardware.
Due to its generic mounting pattern, the Firefield Impulse is theoretically compatible with a variety of aftermarket accessories, such as kill flashes and lens protectors. Finding compatible accessories may require some research and experimentation.
Pros and Cons of Firefield Impulse Compact with Laser 1x 22m Dual Illuminated Red Dot Sight – CR2032 Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, 1x Fixed Magnification, 3.54″ Length
Pros
- Budget-friendly price makes it accessible to shooters on a limited budget.
- Compact and lightweight design is ideal for lightweight builds and close-quarters shooting.
- Unlimited eye relief provides flexibility in mounting and shooting positions.
- Red and green reticle illumination options for varying light conditions.
- Aimpoint T1 mount compatibility allows for customization with aftermarket mounts.
Cons
- Integrated red laser is unreliable and prone to failure.
- Build quality is subpar compared to higher-end optics.
- Durability concerns due to lower-quality materials and construction.
Who Should Buy Firefield Impulse Compact with Laser 1x 22m Dual Illuminated Red Dot Sight – CR2032 Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, 1x Fixed Magnification, 3.54″ Length?
The Firefield Impulse is perfect for budget-conscious shooters seeking a basic red dot sight for plinking and casual target shooting. It’s also a viable option for airsoft enthusiasts looking for a cheap and functional optic. This is a great starting point to test how red dots can improve targeting speed.
Those who rely on their optics for serious hunting, tactical applications, or personal defense should skip this product. The unreliable laser and questionable durability make it unsuitable for demanding scenarios. Shooters should opt for higher-quality optics from reputable brands for critical applications.
A must-have modification would be replacing the mounting screws with higher-quality hardware to prevent loosening during use.
Conclusion on Firefield Impulse Compact with Laser 1x 22m Dual Illuminated Red Dot Sight – CR2032 Battery, Unlimited Eye Relief, 1x Fixed Magnification, 3.54″ Length
The Firefield Impulse Compact with Laser 1x 22m Dual Illuminated Red Dot Sight offers an attractive price point for shooters seeking a basic red dot with an integrated laser. However, the unreliable laser module and questionable durability ultimately detract from its value. It is a decent red dot with an extra option, a laser.
The price is justified for the red dot function alone, but the laser is essentially a throw-in. I would only recommend it to those who understand its limitations and are willing to accept the risk of the laser failing prematurely.
Overall, the Firefield Impulse is a budget optic with budget performance. If you’re on a tight budget and simply need a basic red dot for casual use, it might suffice. However, I recommend investing in a higher-quality optic from a reputable brand for any serious application. Check it out for yourself, but be prepared for a budget experience.