The Springfield Armory Dragonfly 3.5 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Reflex Sight – CR2032 Battery, Black Anodized, 1.90″ Length Made a Bold First Impression
The Springfield Armory Dragonfly 3.5 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Reflex Sight – CR2032 Battery, Black Anodized, 1.90″ Length enters a crowded market, promising lightning-fast target acquisition and enhanced versatility for pistols, rifles, and shotguns. Marketed by Springfield Armory as a rugged, reliable optic, the Dragonfly aims to bridge the gap between budget-friendly red dots and high-end performers. With its 3.5 MOA dot, manual brightness adjustments, and compatibility with the Springfield Standard Footprint, it’s a compelling option for those looking to upgrade their firearm’s sighting system.
I’ve spent years relying on iron sights and magnified optics, but I’ve increasingly found myself needing a quick, intuitive sighting solution for close-quarters engagements and rapid target transitions. The Dragonfly’s promise of faster target acquisition on my 9mm Springfield Compact Elite OSP was precisely what I was searching for.
The unboxing experience was straightforward, nothing fancy. The sight itself feels solid; the black anodized finish gives it a serious, no-nonsense look, and the weight is surprisingly manageable. It immediately strikes you as a well-built piece of equipment.
Compared to other budget-friendly red dots like the Sig Sauer Romeo5 or the Holosun HS403B, the Dragonfly stood out due to its direct compatibility with my Springfield pistol and its manual brightness controls, which I prefer over automatic adjustments for better control in varying lighting conditions. I chose the Dragonfly primarily for its mounting compatibility and the trust I have in the Springfield Armory brand.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. I was eager to see if its real-world performance matched the hype and if it would indeed prove to be a significant upgrade over my iron sights.
Real-World Testing: Putting Springfield Armory Dragonfly 3.5 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Reflex Sight – CR2032 Battery, Black Anodized, 1.90″ Length to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Springfield Armory Dragonfly 3.5 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Reflex Sight – CR2032 Battery, Black Anodized, 1.90″ Length at my local outdoor shooting range on a clear, sunny day. I mounted it on my Springfield Compact Elite OSP. Getting it zeroed was a relatively painless process, requiring only a few adjustments with a bore sight and live rounds at 25 yards.
The Dragonfly performed admirably in the bright sunlight. The 3.5 MOA dot was crisp and clear at the higher brightness settings, making target acquisition quick and intuitive. I experienced no issues with glare or washout, even when shooting towards the sun.
The learning curve was minimal, which was a pleasant surprise considering this was my first pistol red dot. I found myself acquiring targets much faster than with iron sights. The sight picture was clean and uncluttered.
One minor issue I encountered was that the included screws, while sufficient, felt a bit soft. I recommend using higher-quality screws for a more secure and reliable mount.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Springfield Armory Dragonfly 3.5 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Reflex Sight – CR2032 Battery, Black Anodized, 1.90″ Length has held up remarkably well. I’ve put roughly 1000 rounds downrange with it mounted. The sight has maintained zero and shown no signs of loosening or shifting.
Durability has been excellent. I’ve subjected it to various conditions, including rain, humidity, and accidental bumps. The black anodized finish has resisted scratches and wear.
Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe-down with a microfiber cloth keeps the lens clean and clear. I periodically check the mounting screws for tightness, which is standard practice for any optic.
Compared to my previous experiences with iron sights, the Dragonfly provides a significant improvement in speed and accuracy, particularly at close to medium ranges. It makes follow-up shots faster and more precise.
Breaking Down the Features of Springfield Armory Dragonfly 3.5 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Reflex Sight – CR2032 Battery, Black Anodized, 1.90″ Length
Specifications
The Springfield Armory Dragonfly 3.5 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Reflex Sight – CR2032 Battery, Black Anodized, 1.90″ Length boasts several key specifications. It utilizes a standard CR2032 battery for power. The sight features a black anodized finish for durability.
The length is a compact 1.90 inches, with a width of 1.14 inches and a height of 1.01 inches. The red dot itself measures 3.5 MOA, offering a good balance between precision and rapid target acquisition. It uses the Springfield Standard Footprint (Vortex Venom / Burris Fastfire) mounting pattern.
The specifications matter because they directly impact performance and usability. The CR2032 battery provides long-lasting power, minimizing the need for frequent replacements. The black anodized finish protects the sight from corrosion and wear.
The compact size and lightweight design ensure that the sight doesn’t add excessive bulk or weight to the firearm. The 3.5 MOA dot is ideal for a variety of applications, from target shooting to self-defense.
Performance & Functionality
The Springfield Armory Dragonfly 3.5 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Reflex Sight – CR2032 Battery, Black Anodized, 1.90″ Length excels in its primary role: enhancing target acquisition and improving shooting accuracy. The 3.5 MOA dot is easy to see and allows for precise aiming.
The eight levels of brightness adjustment provide ample flexibility for adapting to different lighting conditions. The manual brightness controls are intuitive and easy to use.
One of the strengths of the Dragonfly is its ease of installation and zeroing. The included Picatinny mount further enhances its versatility.
A weakness is the aforementioned slightly soft screws, but this is easily rectified with aftermarket replacements. Also, the 16-hour auto-off feature can be either a blessing or a curse.
Overall, the Dragonfly meets and even exceeds expectations for a red dot in its price range. It offers a significant improvement over iron sights.
Design & Ergonomics
The Springfield Armory Dragonfly 3.5 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Reflex Sight – CR2032 Battery, Black Anodized, 1.90″ Length features a streamlined, minimalist design. The black anodized aluminum construction feels solid and durable.
The sight is lightweight and doesn’t significantly alter the balance of the firearm. The manual brightness controls are easily accessible and provide tactile feedback.
The Dragonfly is user-friendly, even for those new to red dot sights. The large, clear lens provides a wide field of view, making it easy to acquire and track targets.
Durability & Maintenance
The Springfield Armory Dragonfly 3.5 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Reflex Sight – CR2032 Battery, Black Anodized, 1.90″ Length is built to last. The black anodized finish is resistant to scratches and corrosion.
The scratch-resistant, anti-glare glass lens protects the optic from damage. Regular maintenance involves simply wiping down the lens with a microfiber cloth and checking the mounting screws.
The Dragonfly should provide years of reliable service with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Springfield Armory Dragonfly 3.5 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Reflex Sight – CR2032 Battery, Black Anodized, 1.90″ Length includes a CR2032 battery, a set of three screws, and a Picatinny mount. The included screws are adequate but can be upgraded for added security.
The Dragonfly is compatible with any firearm that utilizes the Springfield Standard Footprint (Vortex Venom / Burris Fastfire) mounting pattern. This opens up a wide range of mounting options.
While the Dragonfly itself doesn’t offer many customization options, its compatibility with standard mounting patterns allows for the use of aftermarket risers, shims, and other accessories.
Pros and Cons of Springfield Armory Dragonfly 3.5 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Reflex Sight – CR2032 Battery, Black Anodized, 1.90″ Length
Pros
- Lightning-fast target acquisition: The 3.5 MOA dot allows for rapid and intuitive aiming, significantly improving speed in close-quarters engagements.
- Versatile mounting options: Compatible with the Springfield Standard Footprint, it can be mounted on a variety of pistols, rifles, and shotguns. The included Picatinny mount further expands its versatility.
- Durable construction: The black anodized aluminum housing and scratch-resistant lens ensure long-lasting performance, even in harsh conditions.
- Manual brightness adjustment: Eight levels of brightness allow for precise control in varying lighting conditions, ensuring optimal visibility.
- Easy to install and zero: The straightforward mounting process and intuitive adjustments make it easy to get up and running quickly.
Cons
- Screws could be higher quality. The included screws are adequate, but upgrading to higher-quality screws is recommended for added security and peace of mind.
- The 16-hour auto-off feature may be frustrating for some users, particularly those who prefer the sight to remain constantly on.
Who Should Buy Springfield Armory Dragonfly 3.5 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Reflex Sight – CR2032 Battery, Black Anodized, 1.90″ Length?
The Springfield Armory Dragonfly 3.5 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Reflex Sight – CR2032 Battery, Black Anodized, 1.90″ Length is perfect for:
- Pistol owners looking to upgrade from iron sights and enhance their accuracy and speed.
- Competitive shooters who need a fast and reliable sighting system for close-quarters engagements.
- Home defense enthusiasts who want a clear and intuitive optic for rapid target acquisition in stressful situations.
Those who should skip this product:
- Users who require extremely long battery life and prefer an always-on optic.
- Shooters who demand the highest level of precision and require a smaller MOA dot.
Must-have accessories or modifications:
- Higher-quality mounting screws for added security.
- A lens cleaning kit to maintain optimal clarity.
Conclusion on Springfield Armory Dragonfly 3.5 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Reflex Sight – CR2032 Battery, Black Anodized, 1.90″ Length
The Springfield Armory Dragonfly 3.5 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Reflex Sight – CR2032 Battery, Black Anodized, 1.90″ Length is a solid, reliable optic that offers excellent value for its price. It delivers on its promise of lightning-fast target acquisition and enhanced versatility.
At $215.99, the price is justified by the sight’s performance, durability, and ease of use. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to upgrade their firearm’s sighting system.
I would personally recommend the Springfield Armory Dragonfly 3.5 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Reflex Sight – CR2032 Battery, Black Anodized, 1.90″ Length to anyone looking for a reliable, versatile, and affordable red dot sight. It’s a significant upgrade over iron sights. Enhance your shooting experience today.