The Swampfox Optics Sentinal II 1X20MM Green 3 MOA Dot Tritium Rear Micro Sight Made a Bold First Impression
The world of micro red dot sights is crowded, but the Swampfox Optics Sentinal II 1X20MM Green 3 MOA Dot Tritium Rear Micro Sight aims to stand out. This optic from Swampfox promises a blend of daylight visibility, thanks to its green dot, and always-on readiness due to the tritium illumination. It’s designed as a direct mount, keeping things sleek and low-profile.
As someone who has spent over a decade evaluating tactical gear, I’m always seeking reliable aiming solutions. I specifically needed a compact, robust optic for my everyday carry pistol that would be effective in varied lighting conditions. I have used many red dots and holographic sights, but I hoped the Sentinal II’s tritium and green dot combination would give me the edge I needed.
The packaging was standard, but the optic itself felt substantial for its size. The finish was clean and even, and the direct mount interface appeared precise. I was deciding between this, a Trijicon RMRcc, and a Holosun 507k. I chose the Swampfox Optics Sentinal II because of the tritium backup and the promise of a crisper green dot at a more accessible price point.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The size and weight were ideal, but the true test would be how it performs under pressure and varying light. It felt like a step in the right direction.
Real-World Testing: Putting Swampfox Optics Sentinal II 1X20MM Green 3 MOA Dot Tritium Rear Micro Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Swampfox Optics Sentinal II 1X20MM Green 3 MOA Dot Tritium Rear Micro Sight at an outdoor shooting range on a bright, sunny day. I mounted it on a Glock 43X MOS. The initial zeroing process was straightforward, with the adjustments feeling positive and precise.
The green dot was exceptionally bright and easily visible against various targets, even in direct sunlight. I also used it during a low-light training session at an indoor range. It was easy to use.
There were no immediate issues. The dot remained crisp, and the optic held zero perfectly during the first range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of consistent use, including weekly range trips and daily carry, the Swampfox Optics Sentinal II has proven to be quite resilient. It has held up very well. There are only minor signs of wear around the edges of the housing.
Cleaning is simple, requiring only a lens cloth to wipe away any residue. I have not had any issues with moisture or fogging. Compared to cheaper optics I’ve used in the past, the Sentinal II surpasses them in terms of both durability and dot clarity. The reliability of the always-on tritium has given me great peace of mind.
Breaking Down the Features of Swampfox Optics Sentinal II 1X20MM Green 3 MOA Dot Tritium Rear Micro Sight
Specifications
- Finish: Black. The black finish is durable and resists scratches well, blending seamlessly with most pistol slides.
- Mount: Direct. The direct mount eliminates the need for adapter plates, resulting in a lower profile and more secure attachment.
- Night Vision Compatible: No. While not night vision compatible, the tritium illumination provides a usable aiming point in very low light conditions.
- Power Supply: CR 2032. The CR 2032 battery provides a long battery life, which extends to several years, supplementing the always-on tritium.
- Reticle: Green 3 MOA Dot. The green 3 MOA dot is a perfect balance between speed and precision.
- Weight: 0.06 lbs. The extremely lightweight design adds minimal weight to the pistol slide.
These specifications provide a clear understanding of the Sentinal II’s design and capabilities. The low weight ensures minimal impact on the firearm’s balance and handling. The green dot and tritium combination address the need for visibility in diverse lighting environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Swampfox Optics Sentinal II 1X20MM Green 3 MOA Dot Tritium Rear Micro Sight performs admirably in its intended role. It provides a clear and easily acquired aiming point in most lighting conditions. The green dot is bright enough for daylight use, and the tritium is a reliable backup for low-light scenarios.
The 3 MOA dot size is a good compromise, allowing for quick target acquisition without sacrificing precision. One slight drawback is the lack of adjustable brightness settings. The fixed brightness may be too intense for some users in very low-light situations. Overall, it meets my expectations for a compact, reliable pistol optic.
Design & Ergonomics
The Sentinal II boasts a streamlined and minimalist design. The build quality is excellent. The optic feels solid and well-constructed.
The direct mount ensures a low profile, minimizing obstruction of the user’s field of view. There is a slight learning curve in becoming accustomed to using a red dot sight, but the Sentinal II’s simplicity makes it easy to master.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its rugged construction and the materials used, the Swampfox Optics Sentinal II should last for years under normal use. The anodized aluminum housing provides excellent protection against impacts and abrasions.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lens. The battery is easily replaceable, and the tritium illumination requires no maintenance whatsoever.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Swampfox Optics Sentinal II does not come with a plethora of accessories, as it is a simple, direct-mount optic. However, various aftermarket direct mount plates are available for different pistol models.
It is compatible with standard pistol suppressor-height iron sights for co-witnessing. The availability of different holsters designed for pistols with micro red dots is another customization aspect.
Pros and Cons of Swampfox Optics Sentinal II 1X20MM Green 3 MOA Dot Tritium Rear Micro Sight
Pros
- Always-on Tritium Illumination: Provides a reliable aiming point even without battery power.
- Bright and Crisp Green Dot: Highly visible in daylight conditions.
- Durable Construction: Designed to withstand the rigors of daily carry and use.
- Lightweight and Compact: Adds minimal bulk to the pistol.
- Direct Mount: Simplifies installation and ensures a low profile.
Cons
- No Adjustable Brightness: The fixed brightness may be too intense in very low light.
- Not Night Vision Compatible: Limits its usability in conjunction with night vision devices.
Who Should Buy Swampfox Optics Sentinal II 1X20MM Green 3 MOA Dot Tritium Rear Micro Sight?
The Swampfox Optics Sentinal II 1X20MM Green 3 MOA Dot Tritium Rear Micro Sight is perfect for concealed carriers and law enforcement personnel who prioritize a reliable and always-ready aiming solution. It is also well-suited for competitive shooters seeking a compact and durable optic for their pistols.
This product may not be ideal for individuals who require night vision compatibility or adjustable brightness settings for specialized applications. Anyone using Gen 3 night vision should avoid it. A red dot with specific night vision settings would be more appropriate.
A quality holster designed for a pistol with a micro red dot sight is a must-have accessory. Suppressor height sights are a practical modification to allow co-witnessing.
Conclusion on Swampfox Optics Sentinal II 1X20MM Green 3 MOA Dot Tritium Rear Micro Sight
The Swampfox Optics Sentinal II 1X20MM Green 3 MOA Dot Tritium Rear Micro Sight is a well-designed and reliable micro red dot optic. The price is justified by its combination of tritium illumination, bright green dot, and durable construction.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a compact and always-ready aiming solution for their pistol. If you need a reliable and rugged optic for everyday carry, the Swampfox Optics Sentinal II deserves serious consideration.