My first impression of Holosun HE508T-RD X2 1x Red 2 MOA Dot / 32 MOA Circle Reflex Sight
The Holosun HE508T-RD X2 1x Red 2 MOA Dot / 32 MOA Circle Reflex Sight arrived, and I was immediately struck by its compact, robust appearance. From Holosun, it promises a blend of durability and advanced features designed for pistol applications, including a titanium housing, multiple reticle options, and shake-awake technology. For someone like me, with years of experience in the tactical gear world, the HE508T-RD X2 represents a potentially significant upgrade to standard pistol optics, offering faster target acquisition and enhanced accuracy.
I’ve been struggling with finding a pistol optic that could withstand the rigors of daily carry and frequent range use. My old red dot sight, while functional, lacked the ruggedness and battery life I needed for reliable performance in various conditions. I specifically sought a reflex sight that could offer both a precise dot for longer shots and a wider circle for quicker close-quarters engagements.
Unboxing the Holosun HE508T-RD X2, the immediate impression was one of quality. The titanium housing felt incredibly solid, and the sight had a satisfying heft, suggesting a durable build. The black anodized finish was smooth and even, adding to the optic’s premium feel.
Compared to the Trijicon RMR and Aimpoint Acro P-2, the Holosun offered a compelling alternative. The RMR is a benchmark in pistol optics, but the HE508T-RD X2 boasts a titanium housing and a lower price point, piquing my interest. The Aimpoint Acro P-2 is known for its enclosed emitter, offering superior protection, but the Holosun’s multiple reticle system and solar failsafe were tempting features I wanted to explore.
My initial reaction was excitement. I was eager to mount the HE508T-RD X2 on my pistol and see if it could live up to its promises of durability, versatility, and enhanced performance. The titanium housing alone instilled confidence that this optic could withstand substantial abuse.
Real-World Testing: Putting Holosun HE508T-RD X2 1x Red 2 MOA Dot / 32 MOA Circle Reflex Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Holosun HE508T-RD X2 to my local shooting range for its initial test. I mounted it on my Glock 19 and ran several drills, focusing on speed and accuracy at various distances. The range offered both indoor and outdoor shooting bays, giving me the chance to evaluate the optic under different lighting conditions.
The Holosun performed admirably in both bright sunlight and dimmer indoor settings. The adjustable brightness settings allowed me to quickly adapt to changing light conditions, ensuring the reticle remained clear and visible. The sight was easy to zero, and the adjustments were precise and repeatable. First use revealed no issues.
The HE508T-RD X2 was remarkably intuitive to use. The buttons were easy to access and operate, even with gloves. The shake-awake feature worked flawlessly, instantly activating the reticle when the pistol was moved. There were no issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Holosun HE508T-RD X2 has proven to be a reliable and durable optic. It has endured hundreds of rounds, multiple range trips, and even a weekend survival course where it was exposed to rain, mud, and rough handling. The titanium housing shows no signs of wear, and the lens remains clear and scratch-free.
The Holosun has held zero consistently, even after repeated firing and rough handling. I’ve only had to clean the lens periodically to remove dust and debris, a simple process that takes only a few minutes. It outperforms my previous optic.
Compared to my previous reflex sight, the Holosun HE508T-RD X2 offers superior durability, battery life, and reticle versatility. The shake-awake feature and solar failsafe provide added peace of mind, ensuring the optic is always ready when needed. The titanium housing gives me confidence that it can withstand the rigors of daily carry and tactical use.
Breaking Down the Features of Holosun HE508T-RD X2 1x Red 2 MOA Dot / 32 MOA Circle Reflex Sight
Specifications
The Holosun HE508T-RD X2 is a pistol-mounted open reflex sight. It features 1x magnification and a window size of 0.63″ x 0.91″. The unlimited eye relief allows for flexible mounting positions and shooting styles.
The HE508T-RD X2 offers a choice of a 2 MOA dot or a 32 MOA circle reticle, or a combination of both. It weighs only 2.0 oz and has a black anodized finish. Power is supplied by a CR1632 battery, offering up to 50,000 hours of battery life.
The specifications matter because they directly influence the sight’s performance and suitability for various applications. The lightweight design minimizes added weight on the pistol, while the multiple reticle options provide versatility for different shooting scenarios. The titanium housing ensures exceptional durability, making it ideal for duty or everyday carry.
Performance & Functionality
The Holosun HE508T-RD X2 excels in target acquisition and accuracy. The clear lens and crisp reticle make it easy to quickly acquire and engage targets at various distances. The adjustable brightness settings ensure optimal visibility in all lighting conditions.
The strengths of the HE508T-RD X2 include its durability, versatility, and ease of use. A potential area for improvement might be a slightly larger window size for an even wider field of view, but the existing size is more than adequate. It exceeds my expectations.
The Holosun HE508T-RD X2 provides fast target acquisition and reliable performance. The multiple reticle options and shake-awake feature enhance its functionality for both tactical and recreational shooting.
Design & Ergonomics
The Holosun HE508T-RD X2 features a robust titanium housing. The optic feels solid and well-built. The controls are easily accessible and intuitive to use, making it user-friendly, with little to no learning curve required.
The build quality is exceptional. The titanium construction adds to the sight’s durability and ruggedness. The lightweight design ensures the optic doesn’t add excessive weight to the pistol, maintaining balance and maneuverability.
Durability & Maintenance
The titanium housing of the Holosun HE508T-RD X2 ensures it will withstand significant abuse. The lens is scratch-resistant and easy to clean. It is built to last.
Maintenance is minimal. Occasional lens cleaning is all that’s needed to keep the sight performing optimally. The robust construction and quality materials ensure long-term reliability with minimal upkeep.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Holosun HE508T-RD X2 comes with a lens cloth, a CR1632 battery, a T10 L Key, and a user manual. It is compatible with most industry-standard pistol mounting plates. The sight is designed to fit a wide range of pistols, making it a versatile choice for various firearms.
While the HE508T-RD X2 doesn’t offer extensive customization options beyond reticle selection and brightness settings, it’s compatible with aftermarket mounting solutions and pistol accessories. The sight’s footprint is widely supported, making it easy to find compatible holsters and other accessories. The compatibility with common mounting standards ensures ease of integration with existing pistol setups.
Pros and Cons of Holosun HE508T-RD X2 1x Red 2 MOA Dot / 32 MOA Circle Reflex Sight
Pros
- Titanium Housing: Provides exceptional durability and resistance to wear and tear.
- Multiple Reticle Options: Offers versatility for different shooting scenarios (2 MOA Dot / 32 MOA Circle).
- Shake-Awake Technology: Extends battery life and ensures the sight is always ready for use.
- Solar Failsafe: Provides a backup power source in case of battery failure.
- Clear Lens & Crisp Reticle: Enables fast and accurate target acquisition.
Cons
- Window Size: Some users may prefer a larger window for an even wider field of view.
- No Auto Brightness: No automatic brightness adjustment like some competing models offer.
Who Should Buy Holosun HE508T-RD X2 1x Red 2 MOA Dot / 32 MOA Circle Reflex Sight?
The Holosun HE508T-RD X2 is perfect for law enforcement officers, tactical shooters, and everyday carriers who demand a durable, reliable, and versatile pistol optic. Its multiple reticle options, shake-awake technology, and solar failsafe make it an excellent choice for those who prioritize fast target acquisition and dependable performance. It is also ideal for competition shooters and recreational marksmen who want to improve their accuracy and speed.
Those who primarily shoot long-range rifles or require an enclosed emitter for extreme environmental conditions may want to consider other options. Those wanting the absolute widest field of view might want to explore larger optics. A quality pistol holster is a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on Holosun HE508T-RD X2 1x Red 2 MOA Dot / 32 MOA Circle Reflex Sight
The Holosun HE508T-RD X2 is an outstanding pistol optic that delivers exceptional performance and durability. At $369.99, the price is justified by its robust titanium construction, versatile reticle options, and advanced features. It offers excellent value for those seeking a high-quality reflex sight for duty, tactical, or recreational use.
I would highly recommend the Holosun HE508T-RD X2 to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile pistol optic. Its rugged construction, multiple reticle options, and long battery life make it an excellent choice for both professionals and enthusiasts. Upgrade your pistol’s performance today with the Holosun HE508T-RD X2 and experience the difference firsthand.