Swampfox Optics Sentinal II 1X20MM Green 3 MOA Dot Blackout Rear Micro Sight Review

The Swampfox Optics Sentinal II 1X20MM Green 3 MOA Dot Blackout Rear Micro Sight Made a Bold First Impression

The micro red dot sight market is saturated, yet the Swampfox Optics Sentinal II 1X20MM Green 3 MOA Dot Blackout Rear Micro Sight promises a streamlined, pistol-ready optic without sacrificing features. This optic distinguishes itself with its “Blackout Rear” design, aiming to improve focus and target acquisition. After years of running various optics on my sidearms, I was intrigued by Swampfox’s approach to simplifying the micro red dot.

I needed a reliable, low-profile optic for my concealed carry Glock 43X. My aging red dot sight was bulky and dim, making it unsuitable for everyday carry. I sought a minimalist design with clear visibility and reliable performance in varied lighting conditions.

Unboxing the Sentinal II revealed a compact, seemingly robust optic. The all-black finish contributes to its discreet profile, and the weight immediately felt right – substantial enough to be durable, but light enough to not throw off the balance of my pistol. The build quality appeared excellent, with tight tolerances and a clean finish.

Compared to the Trijicon RMRcc and Holosun 507K, the Sentinal II stood out due to its direct mount capability and the promise of the blackout rear. I chose it primarily for its compact size and reported reliability. The RMRcc, while legendary, requires an adapter plate on many pistols, increasing bulk.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The optic looked well-made and felt good in hand, but the real test would be how it performed on the range. Would the blackout rear truly enhance target acquisition, or would it prove to be a gimmick?

Real-World Testing: Putting Swampfox Optics Sentinal II 1X20MM Green 3 MOA Dot Blackout Rear Micro Sight to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Swampfox Optics Sentinal II 1X20MM Green 3 MOA Dot Blackout Rear Micro Sight took place at my local outdoor range. I focused on quick target acquisition drills and accuracy testing at distances ranging from 7 to 25 yards. The weather was overcast, providing a good test of the optic’s visibility in less-than-ideal lighting.

The Sentinal II performed admirably, even in the dull light. The 3 MOA green dot was crisp and easy to see, and the blackout rear design noticeably reduced distractions, allowing my focus to remain firmly on the target. I found target acquisition to be quicker and more intuitive compared to my previous optic, which had a more cluttered sight picture.

It took minimal time to adjust to the Sentinal II. The direct mounting system made installation straightforward, and the intuitive brightness controls allowed for easy adjustments on the fly. My only initial concern was the battery life, as I didn’t have enough data to assess its longevity after the first range session.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of carrying and using the Swampfox Optics Sentinal II 1X20MM Green 3 MOA Dot Blackout Rear Micro Sight, it has proven to be remarkably durable and reliable. It has endured daily concealed carry, numerous range trips, and even a few days spent hiking in the backcountry. The finish shows minimal wear, and the optic has maintained zero throughout.

The Sentinal II has held up exceptionally well. Despite exposure to sweat, dust, and minor bumps, it continues to function flawlessly. I have experienced no issues with the dot flickering or dimming, and the brightness adjustments remain responsive.

Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe with a microfiber cloth after each range session keeps the lens clean and clear. I’ve only had to replace the battery once in six months, which is reasonable for a micro red dot sight. This outperforms my previous red dot, which required battery changes every few months.

Breaking Down the Features of Swampfox Optics Sentinal II 1X20MM Green 3 MOA Dot Blackout Rear Micro Sight

Specifications

The Swampfox Optics Sentinal II 1X20MM Green 3 MOA Dot Blackout Rear Micro Sight features a robust set of specifications designed for everyday carry and tactical applications. Its black finish ensures a low-profile appearance, minimizing printing when concealed. The direct mount compatibility simplifies installation on compatible slides, eliminating the need for adapter plates in many cases.

This optic is not night vision compatible, catering to users who prioritize daytime visibility and simplicity. It uses a common CR 2032 battery as its power supply, ensuring easy replacement. The crisp Green 3 MOA Dot reticle provides a clear aiming point, suitable for both close-quarters engagements and longer-range precision.

Weighing in at just 0.06 lbs, the Sentinal II adds minimal weight to the host pistol. This is crucial for maintaining balance and comfort during extended carry.

Performance & Functionality

The Swampfox Optics Sentinal II 1X20MM Green 3 MOA Dot Blackout Rear Micro Sight excels at its primary function: providing a fast and accurate aiming solution. Its standout feature, the “Blackout Rear,” truly enhances target acquisition by minimizing distractions in the shooter’s field of view. This allows for faster and more focused target engagement, particularly in dynamic shooting scenarios.

The 3 MOA green dot offers a good balance between precision and visibility. It’s small enough for accurate shooting at longer distances, yet large enough to be easily acquired in close quarters. The brightness settings are easily adjustable, allowing the user to adapt to varying lighting conditions.

The optic’s primary weakness is its lack of night vision compatibility. While not a drawback for all users, it’s a limitation to consider for those who require night vision capabilities. Overall, the Sentinal II exceeds expectations in terms of its clarity, ease of use, and speed of target acquisition.

Design & Ergonomics

The Swampfox Optics Sentinal II 1X20MM Green 3 MOA Dot Blackout Rear Micro Sight boasts a thoughtfully designed and ergonomically sound construction. The materials used are high-quality, contributing to its overall durability and ruggedness. Its low weight ensures that it doesn’t negatively impact the balance or handling of the pistol.

The optic is incredibly user-friendly, with intuitive controls and a straightforward installation process. The direct mount system eliminates the need for bulky adapter plates, resulting in a cleaner and more streamlined profile. There’s virtually no learning curve; even novice red dot users will find it easy to master.

Durability & Maintenance

The Swampfox Optics Sentinal II 1X20MM Green 3 MOA Dot Blackout Rear Micro Sight is built to last, capable of withstanding the rigors of daily carry and frequent use. Its robust construction and high-quality materials ensure its longevity, even under demanding conditions. The anodized finish provides excellent resistance to scratches, corrosion, and wear.

Maintenance is remarkably simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft cloth. The battery compartment is easily accessible, allowing for quick and hassle-free battery replacements. With proper care, the Sentinal II should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Swampfox Optics Sentinal II 1X20MM Green 3 MOA Dot Blackout Rear Micro Sight is designed primarily as a standalone optic, with limited external customization options. Its direct mount design, however, makes it compatible with a wide range of pistols that accept micro red dot sights. While there are no included accessories beyond the necessary mounting hardware, the compatibility with various pistol models provides a degree of flexibility.

The most significant “customization” is the choice of mounting screws to ensure a secure fit on your specific pistol. The Sentinal II is also compatible with aftermarket suppressor-height iron sights, allowing for co-witnessing with the red dot.

Pros and Cons of Swampfox Optics Sentinal II 1X20MM Green 3 MOA Dot Blackout Rear Micro Sight