Let’s Dive into OpticsPlanet Exclusive Sightmark 1x Mini Shot A-Spec Reflex Sight
The OpticsPlanet Exclusive Sightmark 1x Mini Shot A-Spec Reflex Sight is a compact and versatile aiming solution designed for a variety of firearms, brought to you by SightMark. This exclusive model boasts enhanced durability with its steel protective shield and comes complete with both low-profile and riser mounts, making it ideal for pistols, shotguns, and rifles.
I was seeking a compact and reliable red dot sight that wouldn’t break the bank for my competition pistol. I wanted something rugged enough to handle constant use and abuse, with easy-to-adjust brightness settings for varied lighting conditions.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the sight’s solid feel and compact size. The aluminum housing feels robust, and the matte black finish gives it a tactical look, while the included mounts added to the overall value.
I was torn between this Sightmark and the Vortex Venom, as well as the Trijicon RMR. I ultimately chose the OpticsPlanet Exclusive Sightmark 1x Mini Shot A-Spec Reflex Sight because it offered a similar feature set at a significantly lower price point, plus the included mount options saved additional expense.
My initial impression was positive; I was eager to test its performance and durability at the range. I was pleasantly surprised by its apparent build quality, especially considering the price point.
Real-World Testing: Putting OpticsPlanet Exclusive Sightmark 1x Mini Shot A-Spec Reflex Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the OpticsPlanet Exclusive Sightmark 1x Mini Shot A-Spec Reflex Sight at my local outdoor shooting range, mounting it on my Glock 19. The range offered varied lighting conditions from shaded areas to direct sunlight, perfect for evaluating the brightness settings.
The sight performed admirably in both bright and low-light conditions, and the 2 MOA dot was crisp and easy to acquire. I appreciated the ambidextrous digital switch brightness controls, which allowed for quick adjustments on the fly.
The sight was easy to zero, and the click adjustments were tactile and audible, making the process straightforward. However, I did notice a slight parallax shift at the extreme edges of the lens.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the OpticsPlanet Exclusive Sightmark 1x Mini Shot A-Spec Reflex Sight has held up remarkably well. There are no visible signs of significant wear and tear beyond some minor cosmetic scratches on the steel protective shield.
The sight has maintained its zero consistently, even after repeated use with various ammunition types. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a microfiber cloth removes any smudges or debris.
Compared to a higher-end Trijicon RMR I’ve used in the past, the Sightmark doesn’t quite match its optical clarity or overall robustness, but it delivers impressive performance for its price. The battery life, however, is noticeably shorter.
Breaking Down the Features of OpticsPlanet Exclusive Sightmark 1x Mini Shot A-Spec Reflex Sight
Specifications
- The OpticsPlanet Exclusive Sightmark 1x Mini Shot A-Spec Reflex Sight boasts a 1x magnification, providing a clear and unobstructed view of the target. This ensures rapid target acquisition and situational awareness.
- Its objective lens diameter is 17mm, and the objective window size is 22×17 mm, offering a decent field of view for a micro red dot. This size is a good compromise between compactness and usability.
- The sight utilizes a 2 MOA red dot reticle, which is ideal for both close-quarters engagements and accurate shooting at moderate distances. A 2 MOA dot strikes a good balance between precision and ease of acquisition.
- It features 10 brightness settings, allowing users to adjust the dot intensity to match various lighting conditions. This versatility ensures optimal visibility in any environment.
- The sight is constructed from durable 6061-T6 aluminum with a matte black finish, offering excellent resistance to wear and corrosion. The rugged construction ensures long-lasting reliability.
- Powered by a CR1632 battery, it provides up to 200 hours of battery life, although some users have reported shorter runtimes. This battery type is relatively common, but replacements may be more expensive than CR2032 batteries.
- It is rated IP67 waterproof, meaning it can withstand immersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. This provides peace of mind when using the sight in inclement weather.
- The sight is also shockproof, capable of withstanding the recoil of various firearms, including .375 H&H Magnum. This ensures reliable performance even on high-powered rifles.
- Windage and elevation adjustments are made in 1 MOA increments, allowing for precise zeroing. The audible clicks provide positive feedback during adjustments.
- The package includes a low-profile mount for pistols and shotguns, as well as a riser mount for AR-platform rifles. This versatility makes it compatible with a wide range of firearms.
Performance & Functionality
The OpticsPlanet Exclusive Sightmark 1x Mini Shot A-Spec Reflex Sight performs its intended function admirably, providing a clear and accurate aiming point. Its 2 MOA dot is easy to acquire, and the brightness settings allow for comfortable use in various lighting conditions.
The sight’s strengths lie in its compact size, durable construction, and included mounting options. The relatively short battery life and slight parallax are its main weaknesses.
Overall, it meets expectations for a red dot sight in its price range, providing reliable performance for recreational and tactical applications. It’s not quite on par with premium optics but provides a lot of bang for the buck.
Design & Ergonomics
The OpticsPlanet Exclusive Sightmark 1x Mini Shot A-Spec Reflex Sight features a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to mount on various firearms without adding excessive bulk. The aluminum housing feels solid and well-made.
The ambidextrous digital switch brightness controls are intuitive and easy to use, even with gloved hands. There is minimal learning curve.
The sight’s low-profile design allows for co-witnessing with standard iron sights on many firearms. This is a significant advantage for those who prefer a backup sighting system.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from durable aluminum, the OpticsPlanet Exclusive Sightmark 1x Mini Shot A-Spec Reflex Sight is built to withstand the rigors of regular use. The IP67 waterproof rating provides added protection against the elements.
Maintenance is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a clean cloth is usually sufficient. The battery compartment is easily accessible for quick battery changes.
Given its robust construction and waterproof design, the sight is expected to last for many years with proper care. However, the electronic components may eventually fail, requiring replacement.
Accessories and Customization Options
The OpticsPlanet Exclusive Sightmark 1x Mini Shot A-Spec Reflex Sight comes with a low-profile mount and a riser mount, providing compatibility with a wide range of firearms. These included accessories add significant value to the package.
While the sight itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, it is compatible with any firearm that accepts a Picatinny rail mount. Users can add aftermarket accessories such as lens protectors or kill flashes.
The sight’s open emitter design may benefit from a protective hood in extremely harsh environments. These can often be sourced from third-party manufacturers.
Pros and Cons of OpticsPlanet Exclusive Sightmark 1x Mini Shot A-Spec Reflex Sight
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design for versatile mounting options.
- Durable aluminum construction with steel protective shield.
- Ten adjustable brightness settings for various lighting conditions.
- Included low-profile and riser mounts for pistols, shotguns, and rifles.
- Audible and tactile windage and elevation adjustments for easy zeroing.
Cons
- Relatively short battery life compared to some competitors.
- Uses CR1632 batteries, which may be more expensive and less common than CR2032 batteries.
- Some users have reported a slight parallax shift at the edges of the lens.
Who Should Buy OpticsPlanet Exclusive Sightmark 1x Mini Shot A-Spec Reflex Sight?
The OpticsPlanet Exclusive Sightmark 1x Mini Shot A-Spec Reflex Sight is perfect for recreational shooters, home defense enthusiasts, and competitive shooters seeking an affordable and reliable red dot sight. It is also suitable for hunters who require a compact and lightweight aiming solution.
This product may not be ideal for professional law enforcement or military personnel who require the absolute highest level of durability and optical clarity. Also, users who prefer extremely long battery life might want to consider other options.
A lens protector is a must-have accessory for those who plan to use the sight in harsh environments. Also, a spare battery is always a good idea.
Conclusion on OpticsPlanet Exclusive Sightmark 1x Mini Shot A-Spec Reflex Sight
Overall, the OpticsPlanet Exclusive Sightmark 1x Mini Shot A-Spec Reflex Sight is a solid and versatile red dot sight that offers excellent value for the money. Its compact size, durable construction, and included mounting options make it a great choice for a wide range of firearms.
The price is definitely justified, considering its feature set and performance. While it may not be on par with premium optics, it delivers impressive accuracy and reliability for its price point.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and dependable red dot sight for recreational shooting, home defense, or hunting. If you’re looking for a reliable red dot without breaking the bank, the OpticsPlanet Exclusive Sightmark 1x Mini Shot A-Spec Reflex Sight is worth considering.