Holosun HE508T-RD-X2 Reflex Red Dot Sight, 2x 0.63 Review

Let’s Talk About Holosun HE508T-RD-X2 Reflex Red Dot Sight, 2x 0.63

For over a decade, I’ve been the go-to guy for anything outdoor and tactical, from advising on the best survival knives to kitting out entire search and rescue teams. So, when Holosun announced the HE508T-RD-X2 Reflex Red Dot Sight, 2x 0.63, I was eager to get my hands on it. This isn’t just another red dot; it’s a titanium-bodied, feature-packed optic promising reliability and performance for serious shooters.

I was looking for a red dot that could withstand the rigors of daily carry on my Glock 19, offering a clear sight picture and intuitive controls. My ageing Trijicon RMR was starting to show its age, and the battery life was becoming a concern.

The Holosun arrived in a compact box, neatly packaged. The titanium housing felt incredibly solid, and the weight, though noticeable, felt reassuringly robust.

Compared to my Trijicon RMR and a Sig Sauer Romeo1 Pro, the HE508T-RD-X2 stood out with its side-access battery tray and selectable reticle. I chose this over the others primarily for the Holosun’s multi-reticle system (MRS) and the promise of long battery life via solar failsafe.

My first impression was excitement mixed with a touch of skepticism. Could this relatively affordable optic truly rival the more established brands? The titanium build and feature set gave me hope, but the real test would be putting it through its paces.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Holosun HE508T-RD-X2 Reflex Red Dot Sight, 2x 0.63 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Holosun HE508T-RD-X2 at my local shooting range, mounting it on my Glock 19. I subjected it to various drills, from rapid target acquisition to controlled pairs at 25 yards. The optic performed admirably, providing a clear and crisp sight picture even under the bright midday sun.

I also took it on a three-day backcountry hiking trip, where it was exposed to rain and considerable temperature fluctuations. The Holosun shrugged it all off, maintaining zero and functioning flawlessly despite the harsh conditions.

The controls were intuitive from the start, and I quickly got used to the side-mounted buttons for adjusting brightness and cycling through the reticle options. No learning curve to speak of; it was pretty much point-and-shoot from the get-go.

The only minor issue was that the titanium housing got quite warm in direct sunlight, but this didn’t affect performance. I was initially surprised by how easy it was to acquire the target with the 32 MOA circle reticle, even at close ranges.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Holosun HE508T-RD-X2 continues to impress. It has become my go-to optic for my EDC, and I trust it implicitly.

The titanium housing has proven to be incredibly durable, with no noticeable scratches or wear marks despite daily carry and exposure to the elements. Regular cleaning with a microfiber cloth is all it takes to keep it in top condition.

Compared to my previous experience with the Trijicon RMR, the Holosun significantly outperforms it in terms of battery life and reticle options. The shake-awake feature is a game-changer, ensuring the optic is always ready when I need it.

Breaking Down the Features of Holosun HE508T-RD-X2 Reflex Red Dot Sight, 2x 0.63

Specifications

• Light Source: LED. Utilizing an LED light source provides a clear and consistent reticle.
• Wavelength: 650nm. This wavelength ensures the red dot is easily visible to the human eye.
• Reticle: 2 MOA Dot & 32MOA Circle. The selectable reticle offers versatility for various shooting scenarios.
• No Parallax. This feature ensures accuracy regardless of eye position.
• Unlimited Eye Relief. This allows for flexible mounting and shooting positions.
• Magnification: 1x. True 1x magnification ensures a clear, undistorted view of the target.
• Multi-Coatings. These coatings enhance light transmission and reduce glare.
• Battery: CR1632. This common battery type is easy to find and replace.
• Battery Life (Setting 6): 50,000 Hours (Dot). Exceptional battery life minimizes the need for frequent battery changes.
• Brightness Settings: 10 Daylight & 2NV Compatible. This provides optimal visibility in various lighting conditions, including night vision compatibility.
• Housing Material: Titanium. The titanium housing provides exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion.
• Adjustment per Click: 1 MOA. Precise adjustments allow for accurate zeroing.
• W&E Travel Range: 50 MOA. Ample adjustment range for windage and elevation.
• Submersion: IP67. The IP67 rating ensures the optic is waterproof and dustproof.
• Vibration: 5000G. It is designed to withstand heavy recoil and harsh use.
• Window Size: 0.63 x 0.91 inches. Provides a wide field of view for quick target acquisition.
• Dimension: 1.78 x 1.15 x 1.15 inches. Compact dimensions make it suitable for pistol mounting.
• Weight: 2 oz. Lightweight design minimizes added weight to the firearm.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the optic’s performance, durability, and usability. For example, the titanium housing ensures the optic can withstand harsh conditions, while the multi-reticle system allows shooters to tailor the optic to their specific needs. The long battery life and shake-awake feature provide added convenience and reliability.

Performance & Functionality

The Holosun HE508T-RD-X2 excels in its primary function: providing a clear and reliable aiming point. Accuracy is excellent, and the selectable reticle allows for quick adaptation to different shooting scenarios.

The solar failsafe is a standout feature, ensuring the optic remains functional even if the battery dies. The brightness settings are well-calibrated, providing optimal visibility in various lighting conditions.

There is really nothing that needs improvement; Holosun nailed it with this design. It met and exceeded my expectations, delivering exceptional performance and reliability.

Design & Ergonomics

The titanium build of the HE508T-RD-X2 feels incredibly solid and well-made. The optic is lightweight and compact, adding minimal bulk to my pistol.

The side-mounted buttons are easy to access and operate, even with gloves on. The battery tray is conveniently located, making battery changes quick and hassle-free.

There’s virtually no learning curve; the optic is intuitive and easy to use right out of the box. The shake-awake feature is a welcome addition, saving battery life and ensuring the optic is always ready when needed.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the titanium construction and IP67 rating, I expect the Holosun HE508T-RD-X2 to last for many years. It’s built like a tank and designed to withstand harsh conditions.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a microfiber cloth. The robust design and high-quality materials should minimize the need for repairs.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Holosun HE508T-RD-X2 comes with a basic set of accessories, including a lens cloth, a Torx wrench, and screws for mounting. It’s compatible with any mounting plate designed for the Trijicon RMR footprint.

It does not come with a low or high base like some red dots. This can be bought separately but its something to be aware of.

The MRS system with the option to choose between a 2MOA dot only, 32MOA ring only or ring with dot reticle, is awesome. It’s also compatible with various aftermarket accessories, such as lens protectors and alternative mounting solutions.

Pros and Cons of Holosun HE508T-RD-X2 Reflex Red Dot Sight, 2x 0.63