Hawke Sport Optics Frontier RD 1x22mm 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight Review

First Impressions of Hawke Sport Optics Frontier RD 1x22mm 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight

As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless red dot sights come and go. My experience spans over a decade of using optics in diverse conditions, from the controlled environment of shooting ranges to the unpredictable terrains of backcountry expeditions. The Hawke Sport Optics Frontier RD 1x22mm 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight immediately piqued my interest with its compact design and advertised auto-illumination mode (A.I.M).

I needed a reliable, lightweight optic for my AR pistol build, something that wouldn’t add unnecessary bulk but still offered quick target acquisition in close-quarters scenarios. The promise of the A.I.M. feature, which automatically adjusts the dot’s brightness based on ambient light, was particularly appealing. I have always been on the lookout for a red dot that I don’t have to constantly fiddle with to get right.

Upon unboxing, the Hawke Frontier RD felt solid and well-constructed. The matte black finish looked durable, and the weight was surprisingly light for what appeared to be a robust optic. It seemed much more compact than my older Trijicon MRO and even smaller than some of the Holosun models I’ve tested. The glass appeared clear with just a slight blue hue that is very common.

I was torn between this, a Sig Sauer Romeo5, and a Primary Arms SLx MD-20. The Romeo5 is a solid performer for the price, but I wanted to try something with automatic brightness. The Primary Arms optic is known for its ruggedness, but the Hawke model’s smaller footprint and A.I.M. feature swayed my decision. I had a hunch that this would be a game-changer for fast target acquisition in changing light conditions.

My initial impression was positive. It felt like a well-engineered piece of kit. I was eager to mount it and see how it performed in the field.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Hawke Sport Optics Frontier RD 1x22mm 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Hawke Sport Optics Frontier RD 1x22mm 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight was at an outdoor shooting range on a partially cloudy day. I mounted it on my AR pistol and zeroed it at 25 yards. The adjustments were crisp and precise. The clicks felt positive.

The A.I.M. feature immediately impressed me. As clouds passed, the dot adjusted seamlessly, remaining visible without being overpowering. This was far better than constantly adjusting brightness myself. I ran through several drills, transitioning between targets at varying distances. The 2 MOA dot was crisp and clear, allowing for accurate shots even at longer ranges (for a pistol, of course).

Initially, I didn’t realize the dot intensity would get so low indoors. However, after understanding the A.I.M. capabilities I was very impressed.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Hawke Frontier RD has proven to be remarkably reliable. It has weathered multiple range trips, a dusty camping excursion, and even a brief encounter with unexpected rain. The finish shows no signs of wear, and the optic has held zero consistently despite the bumps and jolts of regular use. I believe this is one of the toughest optics in its class.

I’ve made a point of not babying it, leaving it in my range bag and exposing it to the elements. The Hawke has shrugged it all off. Cleaning is simple. A quick wipe with a lens cloth is all it takes to keep the glass clear. I’ve used other red dots that required more meticulous cleaning to maintain optimal performance.

Compared to my older Aimpoint PRO, the Hawke is significantly lighter and more compact. I’ve often found that my Aimpoint is heavier than I prefer, and the Frontier really eliminates that issue. While the Aimpoint might have a slight edge in overall durability, the Hawke holds its own and offers a superior automatic brightness adjustment. This is definitely a win.

Breaking Down the Features of Hawke Sport Optics Frontier RD 1x22mm 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight

Specifications

The Hawke Sport Optics Frontier RD 1x22mm 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight is a compact and lightweight optic designed for quick target acquisition. It features a 1x magnification and a 22mm objective lens. The reticle is a crisp 2 MOA red dot with adjustable brightness settings controlled by Hawke’s A.I.M. (Auto Illumination Mode).

• Magnification: 1x – This offers a true 1:1 sight picture, allowing for both-eyes-open shooting and maintaining situational awareness.
• Objective Lens Diameter: 22mm – This offers a good balance between size, weight, and light transmission, providing a clear and bright image.
• Reticle: 2 MOA Dot – The 2 MOA dot is precise enough for accurate shooting at various distances while remaining quick to acquire.
• Illumination Color: Red – Red is a common and effective reticle color, easy to see in a wide range of lighting conditions.
• Eye Relief: Unlimited – Unlimited eye relief allows for flexible mounting and shooting positions.
• Adjustment Click Value: 2 MOA – 2 MOA adjustments allow for precise zeroing.
• Emitter Type: Enclosed – Enclosed emitters generally provide better protection from the elements, increasing durability.
• Weight: 3.9 oz – At just 3.9 ounces, it adds minimal weight to your firearm.
• Red Dot Sights-Footprint: Micro T-2 Footprint – Its Micro T-2 footprint makes it compatible with a wide range of mounts.

These specifications combine to deliver a lightweight, versatile red dot suitable for various platforms.

Performance & Functionality

The Hawke Sport Optics Frontier RD 1x22mm 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight performs admirably. It excels at quick target acquisition and provides a clear sight picture. The A.I.M. feature is a game-changer. It automatically adjusts the dot’s brightness based on ambient light.

One minor weakness is that in extremely bright sunlight, the dot can sometimes appear slightly washed out. This is only in the most extreme conditions, however. Overall, the Hawke Frontier RD meets and even exceeds expectations for its size and price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The Hawke Sport Optics Frontier RD 1x22mm 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight boasts a sleek and functional design. It is constructed from high-quality aluminum with a matte black finish that resists scratches and wear. The weight is well-balanced, and the optic feels comfortable and secure when mounted.

The low profile design doesn’t obstruct your view, and the controls are easy to access and operate. It has a user-friendly design that minimizes the learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The Hawke Sport Optics Frontier RD 1x22mm 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight is built to last. Its robust construction and enclosed emitter design provide excellent protection against the elements. Routine maintenance is simple, typically only requiring a quick wipe with a lens cloth.

Based on my experience, I expect this optic to provide years of reliable service. I do not baby my optics and this one performs as expected.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hawke Sport Optics Frontier RD 1x22mm 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight comes with a standard Weaver rail mount and a lens cloth. Its Micro T-2 footprint makes it compatible with a wide range of aftermarket mounts, allowing for customization of height and offset. There are no included lens covers; however, the optic is compatible with a number of aftermarket options.

Due to its compatibility with the Micro T-2 footprint, there are a multitude of mount options that can really improve the experience.

Pros and Cons of Hawke Sport Optics Frontier RD 1x22mm 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight

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Who Should Buy Hawke Sport Optics Frontier RD 1x22mm 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight?

The Hawke Sport Optics Frontier RD 1x22mm 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight is perfect for:

• AR pistol owners seeking a lightweight and reliable optic.
• Home defense enthusiasts who need quick target acquisition in low-light scenarios.
• Competitive shooters looking for a compact optic that won’t slow them down.

This product may not be ideal for those who primarily shoot at long ranges or in extremely bright environments. A higher magnification optic or a model with a manually adjustable, high-intensity dot might be more suitable. A must-have accessory would be a set of durable lens covers to protect the glass when not in use.

Conclusion on Hawke Sport Optics Frontier RD 1x22mm 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight

In summary, the Hawke Sport Optics Frontier RD 1x22mm 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight is a top-tier compact optic that delivers excellent performance and reliability. The Hawke’s auto-illumination mode (A.I.M.) is a standout feature that sets it apart from the competition. The price of $299.99 is justified by its quality construction, impressive feature set, and overall value.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this red dot sight to anyone looking for a lightweight, durable, and accurate optic for their firearm. If you want a red dot that you can install, and more or less forget about, the Hawke Sport Optics Frontier RD 1x22mm 2 MOA Dot Red Dot Sight is the one for you. Go ahead and give it a try. You won’t be disappointed!