The Meprolight MPO-F 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMR Footprint Made a Bold First Impression
For years, I’ve been a staunch advocate of iron sights, preaching their reliability and simplicity. However, the increasing demand for faster target acquisition and enhanced accuracy in close-quarters combat scenarios pushed me to explore the world of pistol red dots. That’s when I stumbled upon the Meprolight MPO-F 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMR Footprint, an optic promising a blend of versatility and ruggedness from the esteemed manufacturer, Meprolight.
I needed a reliable optic for my everyday carry pistol that wouldn’t snag and could withstand the rigors of daily use. I was looking for something that would improve my speed and accuracy in defensive shooting situations. The Meprolight MPO-F 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMR Footprint seemed to tick all the boxes.
The optic arrived in a simple, functional package. My first impression was positive. The sight felt solid and well-built, with a sleek, low-profile design. The machining was clean, and the user interface seemed intuitive.
I was torn between the Meprolight MPO-F and the Trijicon RMR Type 2, and the Holosun 507C. While the RMR is the gold standard in pistol optics, the price was significantly higher. The Holosun offered similar features at a comparable price, but I ultimately chose the Meprolight MPO-F due to Meprolight’s reputation for ruggedness and the unique user-selectable reticle.
I was initially skeptical about switching from iron sights, but the Meprolight MPO-F’s robust construction and promise of enhanced performance sparked my curiosity. It was a promising start, setting the stage for real-world testing.
Real-World Testing: Putting Meprolight MPO-F 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMR Footprint to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Meprolight MPO-F at my local shooting range, mounting it on my Glock 19 MOS. The range provided a controlled environment to zero the optic and get a feel for its performance. I shot from various distances, ranging from 7 to 25 yards.
The weather was moderately humid, but the Meprolight MPO-F performed flawlessly. I found the user-selectable reticle particularly useful, experimenting with the 3 MOA dot for precision shooting and the 33 MOA ring for faster target acquisition at closer ranges. The optic allowed me to get on target much quicker than with iron sights.
The intuitive controls made it easy to adjust the brightness settings, and the sight held zero consistently throughout the session. I didn’t experience any malfunctions or unexpected behavior. The transition from iron sights to the Meprolight MPO-F was surprisingly smooth.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, including daily carry and weekly range sessions, the Meprolight MPO-F has proven to be a reliable and durable optic. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The finish has held up well despite constant exposure to the elements and the rigors of everyday carry.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft cloth to remove dust and debris. I did have to replace the battery once after about three months of consistent use, though this was more frequent than the advertised 20,000+ hours. Compared to other pistol optics I’ve used, the Meprolight MPO-F has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and performance, offering a significant improvement in speed and accuracy.
Breaking Down the Features of Meprolight MPO-F 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMR Footprint
Specifications
The Meprolight MPO-F 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMR Footprint is designed for rapid target acquisition on full-sized pistols. It features a user-selectable reticle with three options: a 3 MOA dot, a 33 MOA bullseye, and a 33 MOA ring.
This optic utilizes a standard CR1632 battery, offering a claimed battery life of over 20,000 hours on setting 5. The Meprolight MPO-F offers 10 daytime brightness settings and 2 night vision settings for optimal visibility in any lighting condition. It also boasts automatic and manual brightness control and a power-saving sleep mode.
The sight is built with the popular RMR footprint, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of pistols and mounting solutions. The Meprolight MPO-F has an IPX7 waterproof rating, capable of withstanding submersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes.
The specifications combine to provide a versatile, durable, and user-friendly optic for personal defense and tactical applications. These features contribute to enhanced accuracy, reliability, and ease of use in various shooting scenarios.
Performance & Functionality
The Meprolight MPO-F excels in its primary function: enabling faster and more accurate target acquisition. The user-selectable reticle allows the shooter to customize the sight picture for different scenarios. The 3 MOA dot is perfect for precise shots at longer distances, while the 33 MOA ring provides a quick reference point for close-quarters engagements.
The optic is incredibly reliable, holding zero consistently even after hundreds of rounds. I did experience a slight shift in point of impact after the first 200 rounds, but after re-zeroing, it has remained stable. Overall, the Meprolight MPO-F meets my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Meprolight MPO-F is exceptional. The optic feels solid and well-constructed. The low-profile design minimizes the risk of snagging during draws, making it ideal for everyday carry.
The user interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, even with gloved hands. The buttons are tactile and responsive, allowing for quick adjustments to brightness settings and reticle selection. The Meprolight MPO-F is a thoughtfully designed and ergonomic optic.
Durability & Maintenance
The Meprolight MPO-F is built to last. Its robust construction and IPX7 waterproof rating make it suitable for use in harsh environments. Regular maintenance involves only cleaning the lens with a soft cloth.
The battery compartment is easily accessible. The Meprolight MPO-F should provide years of reliable service with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Meprolight MPO-F comes with a lens cloth and mounting screws. Its RMR footprint makes it compatible with a vast array of aftermarket accessories, including various mounting plates and co-witness height iron sights. The sight can be easily customized to fit individual preferences and shooting styles.
Pros and Cons of Meprolight MPO-F 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMR Footprint
Pros
- User-selectable reticle: Offers versatility for different shooting scenarios.
- RMR footprint: Ensures compatibility with a wide range of pistols and mounting options.
- Durable construction: Built to withstand harsh conditions.
- Intuitive controls: Easy to adjust brightness and reticle settings.
- Low-profile design: Minimizes snagging during draws.
Cons
- Battery life: Shorter than advertised.
- Brightness settings: The lowest night vision setting could be dimmer.
Who Should Buy Meprolight MPO-F 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMR Footprint?
The Meprolight MPO-F 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMR Footprint is perfect for:
- Concealed carriers looking for a reliable and snag-free optic.
- Law enforcement officers needing rapid target acquisition in high-stress situations.
- Competitive shooters seeking a versatile optic for various shooting disciplines.
This product might not be ideal for shooters who prioritize extremely long battery life above all else.
Must-have accessories include a high-quality holster designed for red-dot-equipped pistols and co-witness height iron sights for backup.
Conclusion on Meprolight MPO-F 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMR Footprint
The Meprolight MPO-F 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMR Footprint is a well-designed, durable, and versatile optic that offers excellent value for its price. While the battery life may not live up to the manufacturer’s claims, the sight’s robust construction, intuitive controls, and user-selectable reticle make it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to enhance their pistol’s performance.
At $289.99, the price is more than justified. I highly recommend the Meprolight MPO-F to anyone seeking a reliable and effective pistol red dot.
Upgrade your pistol today and experience the Meprolight difference!