Radian Weapons Guardian Optic Guard w/Stealth Sights Black Anodized Hardcoat Aluminum RMR Mount Compatible w/Glock MOS Han Review

First Thoughts on the Radian Weapons Guardian Optic Guard w/Stealth Sights Black Anodized Hardcoat Aluminum RMR Mount Compatible w/Glock MOS Han

In the dynamic world of pistol optics, maintaining a clear sight picture and protecting your investment is paramount. The Radian Weapons Guardian Optic Guard w/Stealth Sights Black Anodized Hardcoat Aluminum RMR Mount Compatible w/Glock MOS Han aims to deliver both rugged protection and functional backup sights in one sleek package. This optic guard isn’t just about safeguarding your red dot; it’s about enhancing your overall pistol setup for reliability and performance, which is why it immediately piqued my interest.

As someone who runs Glock MOS pistols with RMRs in various demanding environments, I’ve always been acutely aware of the optic’s vulnerability. Scratches, impacts, and even moisture can quickly compromise its functionality, which can be a critical issue in a defensive scenario. This led me to seek a robust solution that would not only shield the optic but also provide a reliable backup sighting system, and Radian Weapons seemed to offer just that.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the robust feel of the Guardian Optic Guard. The 7075 aluminum construction felt incredibly solid, and the black anodized hardcoat finish gave it a professional and durable look. Compared to some of the polymer or less substantial metal optic protectors I’ve used in the past, this felt like a significant upgrade in terms of build quality and intended use.

Initially, I was excited about the potential for enhanced optic protection and the integrated stealth sights. Other options I considered were either bulky cages that obstructed the sight picture or simple sealing plates that offered minimal impact resistance. The Radian Weapons Guardian Optic Guard seemed to strike the right balance between protection, functionality, and aesthetics, filling a very specific need.

Real-World Testing: Putting Radian Weapons Guardian Optic Guard w/Stealth Sights Black Anodized Hardcoat Aluminum RMR Mount Compatible w/Glock MOS Han to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Radian Weapons Guardian Optic Guard primarily at my local outdoor shooting range and during several force-on-force training sessions. These sessions involved dynamic movement, transitions between cover, and simulated weapon manipulations under stress, providing a realistic assessment of the guard’s performance. The weather conditions ranged from sunny and dry to light rain, simulating typical carry conditions.

The initial installation was straightforward, thanks to the included mounting hardware and clear instructions. Immediately, the enhanced protection offered by the guard was apparent, giving me confidence during drills where impacts or accidental bumps were likely. The Stealth Sights were also easily accessible and provided a clear, unobstructed sight picture through the RMR.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Radian Weapons Guardian Optic Guard has proven to be a reliable addition to my Glock MOS setup. Despite numerous range sessions and training evolutions, the guard shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The hard anodized finish has held up exceptionally well, resisting scratches and abrasions from holster use and general handling.

Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session is all it takes to keep the guard in top condition. The mounting screws have remained secure, and there has been no evidence of loosening or corrosion, a testament to the effectiveness of the TRU-SEAL system. Compared to previous experiences with optics that required frequent cleaning and adjustments due to exposure, the Guardian Optic Guard has significantly reduced my maintenance burden.

Breaking Down the Features of Radian Weapons Guardian Optic Guard w/Stealth Sights Black Anodized Hardcoat Aluminum RMR Mount Compatible w/Glock MOS Han

Specifications

The Radian Weapons Guardian Optic Guard w/Stealth Sights Black Anodized Hardcoat Aluminum RMR Mount Compatible w/Glock MOS Han boasts several key specifications. It is machined from 7075 aluminum, offering superior strength and impact resistance compared to other materials. The black anodized hardcoat finish provides enhanced corrosion resistance and a non-reflective surface.

The guard is specifically designed to be RMR mount compatible and interfaces directly with Glock MOS slides using the included hardware. A crucial element of the design is the STUD-LOK threaded stud/nut mounting interface, offering increased thread engagement and shear resistance for a more secure optic mounting. The integrated Stealth Sights provide a backup iron sight system with an irons-forward sight picture.

Performance & Functionality

The Radian Weapons Guardian Optic Guard excels in its primary function: protecting the RMR optic. The top, front, and side impact protection offer a significant safeguard against damage from drops, impacts, and other potential hazards. The Stealth Sights function as a reliable backup should the optic fail, providing a clear and usable sight picture.

One minor drawback is that the guard does add a small amount of weight to the slide, which may be noticeable to some shooters. However, this is a trade-off for the added protection and is something that I quickly adjusted to during use. Overall, the Guardian Optic Guard meets and exceeds expectations by providing robust protection and functional backup sights in a well-designed package.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Radian Weapons Guardian Optic Guard is exceptional. The materials used are top-notch, and the machining is precise, resulting in a product that feels solid and well-made. The weight is noticeable but not excessive, contributing to a balanced feel on the pistol.

The installation process is relatively straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a few minutes of time. The ergonomics are well-considered, with the Stealth Sights positioned to provide a natural sight picture without obstructing the optic. There is virtually no learning curve beyond the initial installation.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the 7075 aluminum construction and hard anodized finish, the Radian Weapons Guardian Optic Guard is built to last. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. The guard is easy to clean and maintain, requiring only a quick wipe-down after each use.

The use of the TRU-SEAL system with pre-installed O-rings on the mounting screws also helps to prevent corrosion and moisture damage, extending the lifespan of both the guard and the optic. This thoughtful design ensures that the Guardian Optic Guard remains a reliable component of the pistol system for the long haul.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Radian Weapons Guardian Optic Guard comes with all necessary mounting hardware for direct installation on Glock MOS slides. While the guard itself does not offer extensive customization options, it is designed to be compatible with a wide range of RMR-pattern optics. The integrated Stealth Sights eliminate the need for separate backup sights.

Because it mounts directly to the MOS cut, the end-user is limited in accessory customization beyond the optic itself. However, the focus here is protection and backup sights, not modularity.

Pros and Cons of Radian Weapons Guardian Optic Guard w/Stealth Sights Black Anodized Hardcoat Aluminum RMR Mount Compatible w/Glock MOS Han