First Impressions of Viridian 9810057 RFX35 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black
The Viridian 9810057 RFX35 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black promises clarity, rapid target acquisition, and robust performance for handguns, shotguns, and rifles. Coming from Viridian Weapon Technologies, a company known for its innovative approach to laser sights and aiming devices, the RFX35 boasts a crisp 3 MOA green dot and a rugged 6061-T6 aluminum construction. I’ve spent years relying on red dots, but my astigmatism often turns them into blurry starbursts, so I was eager to try the RFX35’s green dot, hoping for a clearer, more defined aiming point.
For years, I’ve battled the red dot distortion caused by my astigmatism. Standard red dots become fuzzy messes, especially under pressure, making target acquisition slower and less precise; so I needed a solution that provided a clear aiming point without the frustrating blur.
The unboxing experience revealed a compact, lightweight optic with a clean, black finish. The aluminum housing feels solid, and the sight is surprisingly light at just 1 oz. Compared to my Trijicon RMR and Holosun 507C, the RFX35 feels less bulky, promising a less obtrusive profile on a pistol slide; although the glass did seem to have slightly more distortion than my SRO. Ultimately, the RFX35’s promise of a crisp green dot at a more accessible price point swayed me, offering a potential solution without breaking the bank.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The compact size and lightweight design were immediately appealing, and the promise of a crisp green dot held real potential for solving my astigmatism-related aiming challenges.
Real-World Testing: Putting Viridian 9810057 RFX35 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Viridian 9810057 RFX35 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black was at my local outdoor range, mounted on my Glock 19. The weather was overcast, and the ambient light was relatively low; a perfect test for the green dot’s visibility. Zeroing was straightforward using the 1 MOA adjustments, and I quickly dialed in the sight at 25 yards.
In the slightly dim conditions, the green dot stood out exceptionally well against the dark targets. The 3 MOA dot size felt just right; large enough for quick acquisition, but small enough for reasonable precision at distance. Recoil was a non-issue, and the sight held zero through several magazines.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Viridian 9810057 RFX35 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black has proven to be a reliable performer. I’ve put it through various conditions, from sunny days at the range to a rainy training session, and it has consistently delivered a clear and usable aiming point. The IPX-6 water resistance rating seems accurate, as it shrugged off the rain without any issues.
I’ve noticed only minimal wear on the aluminum housing, primarily around the edges where it interfaces with the slide. The battery life, advertised at 30,000 hours, seems accurate so far; I haven’t had to replace the CR2032 battery yet. Compared to my previous red dot experiences, the RFX35’s green dot is a game-changer for my astigmatism, providing a much clearer and more consistent sight picture.
Breaking Down the Features of Viridian 9810057 RFX35 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black
Specifications
The Viridian 9810057 RFX35 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black is a compact, open-emitter reflex sight designed for rapid target acquisition. It boasts a 22 x 26mm objective window, offering a wide field of view, and features a crisp 3 MOA green dot reticle for precise aiming. The sight’s 6061-T6 aluminum construction ensures durability, while its lightweight design (1 oz) minimizes added weight on your firearm.
Key specifications include 1x magnification, unlimited eye relief, and 1 MOA adjustment click values. The sight is powered by a single CR2032 battery, providing an impressive 30,000 hours of battery life. Its operating temperature range is -4 to 130 Fahrenheit, and it’s water-resistant to IPX-6 standards. The RMR footprint makes it compatible with a wide range of mounting options.
These specifications translate to a user experience focused on speed, accuracy, and reliability. The wide field of view allows for quick target acquisition, while the crisp green dot provides a precise aiming point. The durable aluminum construction ensures the sight can withstand the rigors of regular use, and the long battery life minimizes the need for frequent battery changes.
Performance & Functionality
The Viridian 9810057 RFX35 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black performs admirably in its intended role. The green dot is bright and easily visible in various lighting conditions, and the 3 MOA dot size strikes a good balance between speed and precision. The adjustments are tactile and consistent, making zeroing a simple process.
The sight’s primary strength lies in its clear and crisp green dot, which is particularly beneficial for those with astigmatism. However, the brightness settings are limited to just two, which might be insufficient for very bright, sunny conditions. Overall, the RFX35 meets expectations as a reliable and effective aiming solution for pistols, shotguns, and rifles.
Design & Ergonomics
The Viridian 9810057 RFX35 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black features a streamlined and functional design. The 6061-T6 aluminum housing feels robust and well-made, providing a sense of durability. The sight’s lightweight design is a significant advantage, minimizing added weight on the firearm and preserving its balance.
The sight is generally user-friendly, with intuitive adjustments and a straightforward mounting process. While there isn’t a power button or shake-awake feature, meaning the optic is always on, the 30,000 hour battery life mitigates this issue. The RMR footprint ensures compatibility with a wide range of mounting options, making it easy to integrate with various firearms.
Durability & Maintenance
The Viridian 9810057 RFX35 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black appears to be built for longevity. The aluminum housing provides excellent protection against impacts and abrasions, and the IPX-6 water resistance rating ensures reliable performance in wet conditions. With reasonable care, the RFX35 should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lens with a microfiber cloth. Battery replacement is also straightforward, requiring only a small screwdriver to access the battery compartment. The durable construction and ease of maintenance contribute to the RFX35’s overall value proposition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Viridian 9810057 RFX35 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black is primarily designed as a standalone optic, and doesn’t ship with many included accessories. You’ll receive the sight itself, mounting screws, and a basic tool for adjustments. However, its RMR footprint opens up a vast array of customization possibilities.
The RMR footprint is the key to the RFX35’s versatility, allowing it to be mounted on a wide range of pistols, shotguns, and rifles using readily available adapter plates and mounts. While Viridian Weapon Technologies doesn’t offer proprietary accessories specifically for the RFX35, the compatibility with industry-standard RMR accessories allows for extensive customization. This includes various mounting solutions, protective shrouds, and even co-witnessing iron sights.
Pros and Cons of Viridian 9810057 RFX35 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black
Pros
- Crisp and clear green dot, excellent for users with astigmatism.
- Lightweight and compact design, minimizing added weight on firearms.
- Durable 6061-T6 aluminum construction for reliable performance.
- RMR footprint for wide compatibility with mounting options.
- Long battery life (30,000 hours) for extended use.
Cons
- Only two brightness settings may be insufficient for very bright conditions.
- No shake-awake feature or power button, meaning the optic is always on.
- Glass has slightly more distortion than some higher-end optics.
Who Should Buy Viridian 9810057 RFX35 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black?
The Viridian 9810057 RFX35 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black is perfect for shooters with astigmatism seeking a clear and reliable aiming solution. It’s also well-suited for concealed carry users who appreciate a lightweight and compact optic. Competitive shooters seeking a fast and accurate aiming point on a budget will also find value in the RFX35.
Those who require a wide range of brightness settings for diverse lighting conditions might want to consider other options. Also, individuals prioritizing advanced features like shake-awake functionality or automatic brightness adjustment may find the RFX35 lacking. A must-have accessory for the RFX35 is a quality RMR-compatible mounting plate appropriate for your specific firearm.
Conclusion on Viridian 9810057 RFX35 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black
The Viridian 9810057 RFX35 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black is a solid performer, particularly for those struggling with red dot distortion due to astigmatism. The crisp green dot, durable construction, and RMR footprint make it a versatile and reliable option for a variety of firearms. While it lacks some of the advanced features found in higher-end optics, its performance and value proposition are compelling.
At $249.00, the price is certainly justified for the level of performance and features offered. The RFX35 provides a significant improvement in sight picture clarity for those with astigmatism, making it a worthwhile investment for improved accuracy and faster target acquisition. I would personally recommend the Viridian 9810057 RFX35 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black to anyone seeking a reliable and affordable green dot optic. If you’re tired of blurry red dots, give the RFX35 a try; you might be surprised at the difference it makes.