My first impression of TruGlo Ignite 2 MOA Green Reticle Red Dot Sight
The TruGlo Ignite 2 MOA Green Reticle Red Dot Sight enters the crowded market of budget-friendly optics promising a bright, crisp green dot and dependable performance. TruGlo, known for their affordable sighting solutions, aims to deliver a solid red dot sight for those not wanting to break the bank. As someone who’s seen countless optics come and go, I was eager to see if the Ignite could truly ignite my interest.
I was looking for an optic to top a newly built AR-15 pistol. I needed something lightweight, reliable, and easy to use, but without the premium price tag of some of the bigger names in the industry. The promise of a green reticle also intrigued me, as I find green to be easier to pick up in bright daylight compared to red.
Unboxing the TruGlo Ignite, I was immediately struck by the robust aluminum housing. It felt solid and well-built for the price point, and the included cantilever mount was a welcome addition. The removable lens caps are a nice touch, offering added protection when the sight isn’t in use.
I considered a Sig Sauer Romeo5 and a Holosun HS403B. Ultimately, I chose the TruGlo Ignite because of its green reticle and slightly lower price point. The TruGlo also included the cantilever mount, which would have been an extra expense with the other options. I was cautiously optimistic.
My first impression was one of pleasant surprise. It seemed to offer decent quality at a very reasonable price. I was eager to get it mounted and see how it performed at the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting TruGlo Ignite 2 MOA Green Reticle Red Dot Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the TruGlo Ignite was at my local outdoor range. I mounted it on my AR-15 pistol and zeroed it at 50 yards. The digital push-button brightness controls were easy to use.
The 2 MOA green dot was crisp and clear in the shaded shooting bays. However, I immediately noticed the “user feedback” comment was correct: the dot wasn’t as bright as I’d hoped in direct sunlight. Even on the highest brightness setting, the dot seemed somewhat washed out against the bright backdrop of the desert landscape.
The zeroing process was straightforward. I didn’t have any immediate issues with the adjustments. I did find the clicks to be a bit mushy, lacking the tactile feedback of higher-end optics.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the TruGlo Ignite has held up reasonably well, considering its price point. There are some minor scratches on the housing from general handling, but nothing significant. The TruGlo optic is mostly used on a .22 AR and it has handled that use well.
I’ve put several hundred rounds downrange with it. The zero has remained consistent, even after some fairly rough handling. It’s been exposed to rain and some dusty conditions, and it has continued to function without issue.
Cleaning the lenses is easy enough with a lens pen or microfiber cloth. The aluminum housing wipes down easily, and the removeable lens caps have proved valuable in keeping debris off the glass. It definitely hasn’t outperformed my Aimpoint PRO, but at a fraction of the cost, it’s delivered acceptable performance.
Breaking Down the Features of TruGlo Ignite 2 MOA Green Reticle Red Dot Sight
Specifications
The TruGlo Ignite 2 MOA Green Reticle Red Dot Sight offers a straightforward set of specifications geared toward simple, effective target acquisition. Its 1x magnification ensures a clear, undistorted view of the target. The 30mm objective lens provides a decent field of view, aiding in rapid target acquisition.
With a 68 ft field of view at 100 yards, the sight offers a reasonably wide viewing window for tracking moving targets. The unlimited eye relief is a definite plus, allowing for flexible mounting positions and shooting stances. The precise 2 MOA dot size is a good balance between precision and visibility, making it suitable for a variety of applications.
The sight measures 5.125 inches in length and weighs 11.00 oz, making it relatively compact and lightweight. The black finish provides a low-profile appearance. It operates on a single AAA battery, which is readily available and easy to replace.
The aluminum construction contributes to its overall durability, while the nitrogen-filled glass prevents fogging. These specifications matter because they directly impact the sight’s usability and performance in different conditions. The cantilever rail mount allows for optimal placement on AR-style firearms, while the removable lens caps offer added protection.
Performance & Functionality
The TruGlo Ignite 2 MOA Green Reticle Red Dot Sight performs its intended job adequately. Its 2 MOA green dot allows for reasonably precise aiming. The eight brightness settings offer some level of adaptability to varying lighting conditions.
The biggest weakness is the dot’s visibility in bright sunlight. This is a significant drawback for anyone planning to use the sight in open, sunlit environments. The mushy adjustment clicks also detract from the overall user experience.
It meets expectations for a budget-friendly red dot, but doesn’t exceed them. The digital push-button controls are functional but lack the refinement of more expensive optics. The battery life is decent, but it’s worth carrying a spare AAA battery just in case.
Design & Ergonomics
The TruGlo Ignite features a simple and functional design. The aluminum housing feels reasonably robust and durable. Its 11.0 oz weight is manageable and doesn’t add excessive bulk to the firearm.
The digital push-button controls are easy to reach and operate, even with gloved hands. The cantilever mount provides a stable and secure platform for mounting on Picatinny rails. There’s no significant learning curve to using this optic.
Durability & Maintenance
The TruGlo Ignite seems reasonably durable for its price point. The aluminum housing should withstand typical use and handling. The nitrogen-filled glass should prevent fogging in humid conditions, although I haven’t tested it extensively in such environments.
Maintenance is simple: wipe down the lenses and housing as needed. The AAA battery is easy to replace. With proper care, it should provide a decent lifespan, although I wouldn’t expect it to last as long as a higher-end optic.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TruGlo Ignite comes with a cantilever rail mount and removeable lens caps. These are useful additions that enhance the overall value. There aren’t many specific accessories designed solely for the Ignite.
It is compatible with any standard Picatinny rail mounting system, allowing users to swap out the included cantilever mount for a different style if desired. The 30mm objective lens diameter is fairly common, but aftermarket lens protectors or filters may be challenging to find due to the overall dimensions of the optic housing. Be sure to use TruGlo accessories to avoid issues.
Pros and Cons of TruGlo Ignite 2 MOA Green Reticle Red Dot Sight
Pros
- Affordable price point: The TruGlo Ignite offers a decent red dot sight at a very budget-friendly price.
- Green reticle option: The green dot can be easier to acquire in certain lighting conditions compared to red.
- Included cantilever mount: This saves the user from having to purchase a separate mount.
- Easy to use: The digital push-button controls are simple and straightforward.
- Decent durability: The aluminum housing feels reasonably robust.
Cons
- Weak dot brightness: The dot is not bright enough for optimal use in direct sunlight.
- Mushy adjustment clicks: The windage and elevation adjustments lack tactile feedback.
Who Should Buy TruGlo Ignite 2 MOA Green Reticle Red Dot Sight?
The TruGlo Ignite 2 MOA Green Reticle Red Dot Sight is perfect for budget-conscious shooters looking for a basic red dot sight for recreational shooting, plinking, or training. It would also suit someone building a budget AR-15 or pistol. The included cantilever mount makes it a good option for AR platforms.
Those who frequently shoot in bright, sunny conditions or require a high level of precision should skip this product. Competitive shooters and those who demand the utmost reliability would be better served by investing in a higher-end optic. The weak dot brightness may also be a dealbreaker for hunters who often find themselves in open, sunlit environments.
A must-have accessory would be a spare AAA battery. While the battery life is decent, it’s always good to have a backup on hand. Consider a lens cleaning pen or microfiber cloth to keep the lenses clean and clear.
Conclusion on TruGlo Ignite 2 MOA Green Reticle Red Dot Sight
The TruGlo Ignite 2 MOA Green Reticle Red Dot Sight is a decent entry-level optic that offers reasonable performance for its price. It’s not perfect, but it delivers acceptable accuracy and functionality for casual shooting. The key selling points are its affordability and the inclusion of a cantilever mount.
The value proposition is fair. You get a functional red dot sight without breaking the bank. However, be aware of its limitations, particularly the weak dot brightness in sunlight.
I would recommend it to someone on a tight budget who needs a basic red dot sight for recreational use. Just be sure to understand its limitations and don’t expect it to perform like a premium optic. If you need a bright, crisp dot for all lighting conditions, you’ll need to spend more money. The TruGlo Ignite is a budget option, and it performs like one.