My first impression of Steiner MPS Pistol Red Dot Sight 3.3 MOA Dot FDE
The Steiner MPS Pistol Red Dot Sight 3.3 MOA Dot FDE arrived on my doorstep promising battle-proven durability and a mil-spec pedigree for my pistol. I’ve been a Steiner fan for years, trusting their binoculars and riflescopes in demanding environments, so my expectations were high for their entry into the pistol red dot market. This sight immediately stood out with its all-metal construction, enclosed emitter, and ACRO footprint, hinting at a robust and versatile optic ready for anything.
For years, I’ve struggled to find a pistol red dot that could truly withstand the rigors of daily carry and hard use. I needed something that could handle bumps, scrapes, and the occasional dunk in the mud. My previous red dots, while offering excellent clarity, often felt fragile, particularly in the emitter housing.
Unboxing the Steiner MPS, I was immediately impressed by the heft and solid feel. The FDE finish was smooth and even, and the enclosed emitter gave me confidence in its weather resistance. The design felt purposeful, not just another red dot trying to be sleek and minimalist.
Compared to my Trijicon RMR and Holosun 507C, the Steiner MPS prioritized ruggedness over slimness. The RMR, while a benchmark in reliability, has an exposed emitter, and the Holosun, while feature-rich, doesn’t quite have the same bombproof feel as the Steiner. I chose the MPS because I needed something that could take a beating and keep working, no matter what.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism bordering on excitement. The Steiner MPS Pistol Red Dot Sight 3.3 MOA Dot FDE looked like it could live up to its claims of battle-proven durability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Steiner MPS Pistol Red Dot Sight 3.3 MOA Dot FDE to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Steiner MPS Pistol Red Dot Sight at my local outdoor shooting range, mounting it on my Glock 19 using an ACRO adapter plate. The weather was typical for early spring: overcast with a light drizzle. I ran through a variety of drills, focusing on rapid target acquisition and transitions.
The MPS performed admirably in the damp conditions. The 3.3 MOA dot was crisp and clear, and the recessed window provided excellent protection from the rain. I appreciated the tactile feedback of the brightness adjustment buttons, even with wet gloves. No fumbling, just solid, confident clicks.
The sight was easy to zero, and held zero throughout the 200 rounds I fired. Initially, I found the window slightly smaller than my RMR, requiring a bit more conscious effort to find the dot, but after a few magazines, it became second nature. The enclosed emitter design gave me a sense of security that my previous open-emitter sights lacked.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, including weekly range sessions and participation in a local shooting competition, the Steiner MPS has proven its reliability. The FDE finish shows minimal wear, even after being subjected to holster drills and rough handling. I’ve also carried the pistol with the MPS during several backcountry hikes, exposing it to dust, mud, and temperature fluctuations.
The sight remains rock solid, maintaining zero without any adjustments. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe with a lens cloth keeps the glass clear. Compared to my previous red dots, the Steiner MPS requires significantly less maintenance, thanks to its enclosed emitter design. This design protects the emitter from debris and moisture.
It has far exceeded my expectations for durability. The Steiner MPS Pistol Red Dot Sight 3.3 MOA Dot FDE provides a level of confidence that my previous optics couldn’t match.
Breaking Down the Features of Steiner MPS Pistol Red Dot Sight 3.3 MOA Dot FDE
Specifications
The Steiner MPS Pistol Red Dot Sight 3.3 MOA Dot FDE boasts impressive specifications for a pistol optic. It features 1x magnification for true both-eyes-open shooting. The objective lens measures 20 mm x 16 mm and the ocular lens measures 21 mm x 16 mm.
The dot size is 3.3 MOA, offering a balance between precision and rapid target acquisition. Its total length is 2.17 inches and weighs just 2.05 oz. This keeps the pistol balanced and easy to handle.
Elevation and windage adjustments offer 90 MOA of travel, with 1 MOA clicks for precise zeroing. Illumination is controlled by 8 manual brightness settings, including 6 day/night modes and 2 night vision compatible modes. The battery is a readily available CR1632, providing 13,000 hours of battery life.
These specifications translate to a rugged, reliable, and user-friendly optic. The true 1x magnification maintains situational awareness, while the 3.3 MOA dot is versatile enough for various shooting scenarios. The long battery life ensures the sight is always ready for action.
Performance & Functionality
The Steiner MPS Pistol Red Dot Sight 3.3 MOA Dot FDE excels in both performance and functionality. Its daylight-bright dot allows for fast target acquisition in any lighting condition. The clear glass provides an undistorted view, enhancing accuracy and situational awareness.
Its rugged design and enclosed emitter make it incredibly reliable, even in harsh environments. The only slight weakness is the learning curve associated with the smaller window size compared to some other optics. Overall, the MPS meets and exceeds expectations for a high-performance pistol red dot.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Steiner MPS prioritizes durability and functionality. The all-metal construction and enhanced sidewalls provide exceptional shock resistance. The recessed window with a metal hood protects the front lens from impacts and debris.
The sight is surprisingly lightweight and compact, despite its rugged construction. The raised brightness adjustment buttons are easily accessible, even with gloved hands. While the window size is smaller than some competitors, the overall design is well-executed and user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Steiner MPS Pistol Red Dot Sight is built to last. Its all-metal construction and enclosed emitter ensure exceptional durability. I expect it to withstand years of use and abuse without any issues.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe with a lens cloth is all that’s needed to keep the glass clean and clear. The easy-access battery compartment allows for quick battery changes without removing the sight from the pistol.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Steiner MPS includes a base plate adaptable to a Docter footprint. It is also compatible with most optic-ready pistols using ACRO baseplate adapters.
Several companies, including Battle Steel, C&H Precision, and Forward Controls Designs, offer ACRO adapter plates for various pistol models. There are no additional external accessories to add. However, the user can choose the mounting system that best suits them, and their pistol.
Pros and Cons of Steiner MPS Pistol Red Dot Sight 3.3 MOA Dot FDE
Pros
- Battle-proven durability thanks to its all-metal construction and enclosed emitter.
- Crisp and clear 3.3 MOA dot provides excellent visibility in all lighting conditions.
- Long battery life (13,000 hours) ensures the sight is always ready for action.
- Easy-to-use brightness adjustment buttons offer precise control over illumination.
- Compatible with ACRO footprint allows for easy mounting on various pistols.
Cons
- The window size is relatively smaller than other red dots.
- The price point is at the higher end of the pistol red dot market.
Who Should Buy Steiner MPS Pistol Red Dot Sight 3.3 MOA Dot FDE?
The Steiner MPS Pistol Red Dot Sight 3.3 MOA Dot FDE is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and serious shooters who demand unwavering reliability and durability from their optics. It’s also well-suited for concealed carry users who prioritize a rugged and dependable red dot.
This product may not be ideal for budget-conscious shooters or those who prefer a larger viewing window. A must-have accessory is a quality ACRO adapter plate specific to your pistol model.
Conclusion on Steiner MPS Pistol Red Dot Sight 3.3 MOA Dot FDE
The Steiner MPS Pistol Red Dot Sight 3.3 MOA Dot FDE is a top-tier pistol optic that delivers on its promises of battle-proven durability and mil-spec ruggedness. Its all-metal construction, enclosed emitter, and long battery life make it a dependable choice for demanding users.
The price of $599.99 is justified by the sight’s exceptional build quality, reliability, and performance. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a rugged and dependable pistol red dot that can withstand the rigors of daily carry and hard use.
If you need a red dot that will perform flawlessly no matter the conditions, the Steiner MPS Pistol Red Dot Sight is the optic for you. Invest in reliability, invest in Steiner.