Meprolight MPO-S 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMSc Footprint Review

My first impression of Meprolight MPO-S 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMSc Footprint

The world of pistol red dots has exploded in recent years, and navigating the options can be daunting. That’s why I was particularly intrigued by the Meprolight MPO-S 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMSc Footprint. Knowing Meprolight’s reputation for rugged, reliable optics, especially in military applications, I was eager to see how their experience translated to a concealed carry optic. The selectable reticle and the promise of long battery life certainly caught my eye.

For years, I’ve relied on iron sights or larger red dots on my carry pistols. However, I needed a smaller, more streamlined optic for my Glock 43X, something that wouldn’t add significant bulk. Many options exist, but the Meprolight MPO-S seemed to offer a blend of durability and versatility that others lacked.

Unboxing the MPO-S was a positive experience. The sight felt solid in hand, surprisingly lightweight, and the construction appeared robust. The matte black finish looked clean and durable. Comparing it to a Sig RomeoZero and a Holosun 407K, the Meprolight immediately felt more substantial. I appreciated the included RMSc mounting screws, ready to go out of the box.

My first impression was definitely excitement, tempered with a touch of skepticism about the “automatic brightness control.” I was excited to mount it and put it through its paces. Hopefully the auto-brightness won’t let me down.

Real-World Testing: Putting Meprolight MPO-S 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMSc Footprint to the Test

First Use Experience

My first range trip with the Meprolight MPO-S 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMSc Footprint was focused on zeroing and getting a feel for the different reticle options. The installation on my Glock 43X was straightforward, thanks to the RMSc footprint. I started with the 3 MOA dot at 10 yards. Adjusting the elevation and windage was easy.

The optic performed well in bright sunlight. The dot was crisp and clear. I then tested it under an indoor range with lower lighting, where I experimented with the 33 MOA bullseye and the 33 MOA ring. The bullseye reticle proved to be my favorite for quick target acquisition.

The only issue I experienced initially was the automatic brightness struggling slightly in transitioning from bright sunlight to the shaded indoor range. I had to manually bump up the brightness.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular carry and range sessions, the Meprolight MPO-S has proven to be a reliable companion. The sight shows minimal signs of wear, even with daily concealed carry. I clean it after each range trip using a microfiber cloth and lens cleaner.

The battery life has been impressive so far. I haven’t needed to replace it yet, even with the optic left on. The auto-shutoff feature after a period of inactivity appears to be working effectively. In comparison to my previous red dot (Sig RomeoZero), which ate batteries like candy, this is a huge improvement.

The MPO-S has consistently outperformed my expectations in terms of durability and reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Meprolight MPO-S 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMSc Footprint

Specifications

  • Magnification: 1x. This provides a true, unmagnified view of the target, essential for close-quarters engagements and rapid target acquisition.
  • Objective: 0.80″ x 0.60″. The window size offers a good balance between visibility and a low profile for concealed carry.
  • Eye Relief: Unlimited. Unlimited eye relief allows for flexible head positioning, improving speed and accuracy.
  • DOT Size: 3 MOA/33 MOA Bullseye/Ring. The user-selectable reticle provides versatility for different shooting scenarios.
  • Length: 1.63″. The compact length ensures it doesn’t add excessive bulk to the pistol.
  • Weight: 0.80 oz. The lightweight design minimizes added weight to the slide, preserving pistol balance and handling.
  • Battery: CR1632. The CR1632 battery offers a good balance of size and power, contributing to the sight’s slim profile and extended battery life.
  • RMSc/JPoint Footprint. This industry-standard footprint ensures broad compatibility with various pistol slides and aftermarket mounting solutions.
  • Battery Life: 20,000+ hours (Setting 5). This extended battery life reduces the need for frequent battery changes, enhancing reliability in critical situations.
  • Waterproof Rating: IPX7. The IPX7 waterproof rating provides protection against immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, ensuring reliable performance in wet conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Meprolight MPO-S 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMSc Footprint performs its job admirably. Its selectable reticle allows me to tailor the sight to my specific needs and shooting style. The 3 MOA dot is excellent for precision shooting at longer distances. The 33 MOA ring excels for rapid target acquisition in close-quarters.

The automatic brightness control is generally effective. However, it can occasionally lag in rapidly changing lighting conditions. The manual override is a welcome feature in those situations.

Overall, the MPO-S meets and often exceeds my expectations for a concealed carry optic.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Meprolight MPO-S is impressive. The materials feel durable and well-made. The weight is minimal. The low-profile design makes it comfortable for concealed carry.

The controls are intuitive and easy to access. The sight is generally user-friendly. The only slight learning curve is figuring out the optimal brightness settings for different environments.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience so far, the Meprolight MPO-S is built to last. Its rugged construction and IPX7 waterproof rating inspire confidence. I clean it regularly with a microfiber cloth. I anticipate it will provide many years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Meprolight MPO-S 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMSc Footprint comes with mounting screws and a basic instruction manual. Given its RMSc footprint, it is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket pistol slides and mounting plates.

Numerous holster options are available to accommodate pistols equipped with RMSc-footprint optics. Upgrading the battery to a high-quality lithium CR1632 can potentially further extend battery life.

Pros and Cons of Meprolight MPO-S 3/33 MOA Open Pistol Sight w/RMSc Footprint

Pros

  • User-selectable 3 segment reticle: Provides versatility for various shooting scenarios.
  • RMSc Footprint: Offers wide compatibility with pistols and mounting options.
  • Exceptional Battery Life (20,000+ hours): Reduces the need for frequent battery replacements.
  • Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of daily carry and range use.
  • IPX7 Waterproof Rating: Ensures reliable performance in wet conditions.

Cons

  • Automatic Brightness Adjustment Can Lag: Might require manual adjustments in rapidly changing lighting.
  • Price: Slightly higher price point compared to some competitors.


Who Should Buy 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 perfect for concealed carry permit holders who prioritize reliability, durability, and a versatile reticle system. It’s an excellent choice for law enforcement officers and tactical shooters who need a dependable optic for their duty pistols. This optic is great for those that want to tailor their visual experience.

Those who primarily shoot in controlled indoor environments and are extremely price-sensitive might find other options more suitable. If you demand cutting-edge features like shake-awake, this may not be the optic for you.

A high-quality holster designed for pistols with RMSc-footprint optics is a must-have accessory.

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 well-built, reliable, and versatile optic that excels in concealed carry applications. While the automatic brightness adjustment isn’t perfect, the manual override and overall performance more than compensate.

The price is justified by the quality of construction, long battery life, and flexible reticle options. Meprolight has delivered an impressive optic that stands out in a crowded market.

I would absolutely recommend the Meprolight MPO-S to anyone looking for a dependable and adaptable red dot sight for their carry pistol. If you are on the fence, take the plunge.


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