The Meprolight MPO-S 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMSc Footprint Made a Bold First Impression
Red dot sights on pistols have become increasingly popular, almost a necessity for many shooters. I’ve spent years training with iron sights, but the speed and accuracy boost a quality red dot provides are undeniable, especially in dynamic shooting situations. When the opportunity arose to test the Meprolight MPO-S 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMSc Footprint, I jumped at it.
For years, I’ve been a fan of Meprolight’s robust tritium night sights, trusting them on my carry guns. My aging eyes were beginning to struggle with quick target acquisition using traditional sights. The promise of a compact, versatile red dot from a company known for its ruggedness and reliability was enticing.
Upon unboxing the Meprolight MPO-S, the immediate impression was one of quality. It felt solid and well-built, despite its remarkably low profile. The sleek design and matte black finish gave it a professional, no-nonsense appearance.
Compared to other optics I’ve used – a Trijicon RMR and a Holosun 507k – the Meprolight MPO-S stood out due to its unique selectable reticle and its claim of extended battery life. While the RMR is legendary for its durability and the Holosun offers a solar backup, the Meprolight’s multiple reticle options immediately piqued my interest. I was hoping this sight would be a great option for both defensive and target shooting.
My first impression was definitely positive. I was eager to mount it on my Glock 19 and put it through its paces at the range. I anticipated improved speed and accuracy, but more importantly, I was excited to see how the selectable reticle performed in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Meprolight MPO-S 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMSc Footprint to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Meprolight MPO-S primarily at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was typical for late spring – partly cloudy with intermittent showers. I wanted to see how the optic performed in various lighting conditions.
Mounting was straightforward, thanks to the common RMSc footprint. I immediately noticed the improved target acquisition speed compared to iron sights. The selectable reticle was easy to adjust, and I spent some time experimenting with each option.
Initially, I preferred the 3 MOA dot for precision shooting, but I quickly realized the 33 MOA ring was excellent for close-quarters drills. Even with rain on the lens, the reticle remained crisp and clear. The brightness adjustments were also intuitive and effective.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Meprolight MPO-S has proven to be a reliable and valuable addition to my carry setup. It has endured hundreds of rounds, including some fairly rapid-fire drills, without any issues. The sight has maintained zero consistently.
I haven’t noticed any significant wear and tear. The aluminum housing seems durable, and the lens has remained scratch-free despite being exposed to some less-than-ideal conditions. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a lens cloth is usually all it takes.
Compared to my previous experience with other pistol red dots, the Meprolight MPO-S has exceeded my expectations in terms of reticle versatility and ease of use. The battery life also appears to be living up to its claim, which is a significant advantage.
Breaking Down the Features of Meprolight MPO-S 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMSc Footprint
Specifications
The Meprolight MPO-S 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMSc Footprint is designed for modern concealed carry handguns. It boasts several key features that set it apart.
- Footprint: RMSc/JPoint, ensuring broad compatibility with popular pistol platforms. This allows for direct mounting without needing adapter plates.
- Reticle: User-selectable 3-segment reticle offering a 3 MOA dot, 33 MOA bullseye, and 33 MOA ring. The versatility ensures adaptability to various shooting distances and scenarios.
- Brightness Settings: 10 Day and 2 NV (Night Vision) settings. The wide range of brightness settings ensures optimal visibility in any lighting condition.
- Battery Life: CR1632 battery providing 20,000+ hours of use at Setting 5. The long battery life is a crucial feature for a carry optic, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
- Brightness Control: Automatic and Manual brightness control. This provides the user with flexibility in managing visibility and power consumption.
- Power Saving: Automatic power saving sleep mode. This enhances battery life by automatically dimming or shutting off the optic when not in use.
- Waterproof Rating: IPX7 waterproof rating. The high waterproof rating ensures functionality in wet or adverse weather conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Meprolight MPO-S performs exceptionally well in practical shooting scenarios. Its accuracy is excellent, especially with the 3 MOA dot for precise shots. The reticle options are intuitive, and the ability to switch between them on the fly is a significant advantage.
The brightness settings are well-calibrated, ensuring the reticle is always visible without being overpowering. The automatic brightness adjustment works seamlessly, adapting quickly to changing lighting conditions. The sight meets and even exceeds my expectations for a compact pistol optic.
One minor weakness is that the buttons for manual brightness adjustment are a little small and can be tricky to manipulate with gloves on. However, this is a minor inconvenience compared to the overall performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Meprolight MPO-S features a sleek, low-profile design that minimizes the risk of snagging during draws. Its compact size makes it comfortable for everyday carry. The build quality is robust, using durable materials that inspire confidence.
The optic is lightweight, adding minimal bulk to the pistol. The controls are generally user-friendly. There’s a slight learning curve to fully mastering the reticle selection and brightness settings.
Durability & Maintenance
The Meprolight MPO-S is built to last. The aluminum housing feels incredibly solid and resistant to impacts. Its IPX7 waterproof rating inspires confidence in its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning of the lens with a microfiber cloth is sufficient to keep it in optimal condition. The battery compartment is easily accessible, making battery replacement a quick and painless process.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Meprolight MPO-S comes with a battery and basic mounting screws. Its RMSc footprint makes it compatible with a wide range of pistols and mounting plates. While there are no specific Meprolight-branded accessories for this optic, its industry-standard footprint allows for compatibility with third-party accessories such as aftermarket iron sights.
Pros and Cons of Meprolight MPO-S 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMSc Footprint
Pros
- User-selectable 3 segment reticle (3 MOA dot, 33MOA bullseye, and 33 MOA ring) allows for versatile shooting applications.
- Extended battery life (20,000+ hours on setting 5) ensures long-lasting performance.
- Low-profile design minimizes snagging and enhances concealability.
- Automatic and Manual brightness control adapts to various lighting conditions seamlessly.
- Durable construction with IPX7 waterproof rating provides reliability in adverse conditions.
Cons
- Brightness adjustment buttons are somewhat small and difficult to manipulate with gloves.
- Limited included accessories.
Who Should Buy Meprolight MPO-S 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMSc Footprint?
The Meprolight MPO-S is perfect for concealed carry users, law enforcement officers, and competitive shooters who demand a reliable and versatile optic. It’s also a great option for those new to red dot sights, thanks to its intuitive controls and multiple reticle options.
Those who prioritize the absolute smallest optic or require solar backup may want to consider alternatives. Individuals with very large hands might find the brightness adjustment buttons a bit fiddly.
A must-have accessory is a quality holster designed to accommodate a pistol with an RMSc footprint optic. Also consider purchasing a supply of CR1632 batteries, even though the optic’s battery life is excellent.
Conclusion on Meprolight MPO-S 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMSc Footprint
The Meprolight MPO-S 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMSc Footprint is a fantastic optic that offers a compelling combination of versatility, durability, and ease of use. The selectable reticle is a standout feature that sets it apart from many competitors. The long battery life and robust construction add to its appeal.
At a price of $229.99, the Meprolight MPO-S represents excellent value for money. Its features and performance rival those of much more expensive optics.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Meprolight MPO-S to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile red dot sight for their pistol. It is a well-engineered optic that delivers on its promises. Equip your pistol with the Meprolight MPO-S and experience the difference it makes in speed, accuracy, and overall shooting performance!