My first impression of Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA
The world of pistol red dots has exploded in recent years, and closed emitter optics have quickly risen to the top tier of desired features. So, when the Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA arrived, I was eager to see how it stacked up against the competition, especially given Viridian’s reputation for innovation and their unique approach to aiming solutions. I needed a durable, reliable optic for my Glock 19 that could withstand the rigors of daily carry and occasional competition, with a clear, bright dot that excelled in varying light conditions.
I’ve been using open emitter red dots for years, but have consistently struggled with environmental interference like rain, snow, and lint, which often obscures the emitter and renders the optic useless when I need it most. My decision to try the Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA was heavily influenced by its enclosed design, promising to solve this critical issue. Unboxing the RFX45, I was immediately impressed by its compact size and robust construction. It felt solid in my hand, with a clean, matte black finish that seemed ready for anything.
Compared to the Trijicon RMR and Holosun 507C, both popular choices in the pistol red dot world, the RFX45 boasts a similar footprint to the ACRO, offering a potentially more streamlined and snag-free profile. I was initially drawn to the Holosun for its features like shake-awake and multiple reticle options, but the open emitter design remained a sticking point. The RMR is a known benchmark for durability, but the RFX45’s closed emitter design and green dot offered a potentially superior solution for my specific needs. My first impression was one of cautious optimism. This optic seemed well-built and thoughtfully designed, but the real test would be how it performed on the range and in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA was at my local outdoor range, a place notorious for unpredictable weather and varying light conditions. I mounted it on my Glock 19 using the included low Picatinny mount, which provided a secure and stable platform. The 5 MOA green dot was immediately noticeable, offering excellent visibility against the varied backgrounds of the range.
I started by zeroing the optic at 15 yards, a process that proved remarkably simple and precise thanks to the clearly marked and tactile adjustment dials. The bright green dot stood out even in the midday sun, making target acquisition quick and intuitive. A sudden downpour tested the RFX45’s closed emitter design, and it performed flawlessly, maintaining a clear and unobstructed view while other shooters struggled with obscured open emitter optics. After a few hours of shooting, I was impressed with the RFX45’s performance and ease of use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, including daily carry and multiple range sessions, the Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA has proven to be a reliable and durable optic. There are no signs of wear and tear on the housing or lens, and the green dot remains consistently bright and clear. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe with a microfiber cloth to remove any smudges or debris.
Compared to my previous experiences with open emitter red dots, the RFX45 has been a significant upgrade in terms of reliability and performance. The closed emitter design eliminates the frustrations of obstructed views in adverse conditions, providing a consistent and dependable aiming solution. The brightness and clarity of the green dot are also superior, making target acquisition faster and more accurate in a variety of lighting situations.
Breaking Down the Features of Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA
Specifications
The Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA is a compact and robust optic designed for pistol use. Its key specifications include a 1x magnification, a 24mm x 15.5mm objective lens, a 5 MOA green dot reticle, and a lightweight 1.73 oz construction. The overall length is 1.90 inches, making it a streamlined and unobtrusive addition to any handgun.
The RFX45 is powered by a CR2032 battery, offering a claimed battery life of several months of continuous use, depending on brightness settings. The ACRO footprint makes it compatible with a wide range of mounting solutions and aftermarket slides. These specifications combine to create a versatile and high-performing optic that is well-suited for concealed carry, competition, and duty use.
Performance & Functionality
The Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA excels in its primary function: providing a clear and accurate aiming point for rapid target acquisition. The 5 MOA green dot is highly visible in a variety of lighting conditions, allowing for quick and intuitive aiming. The closed emitter design eliminates the issues of obstructed views caused by rain, snow, or debris, ensuring reliable performance in any environment.
One minor weakness is the lack of shake-awake functionality, requiring manual activation, but the long battery life mitigates this issue somewhat. Overall, the RFX45 meets and exceeds expectations for a closed emitter red dot sight, offering superior reliability and performance compared to open emitter designs.
Design & Ergonomics
The Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA features a robust and well-designed housing made from durable aluminum. The optic feels solid and well-built, with a weight that is noticeable but not excessive. Mounting is straightforward, and the included Picatinny mount provides a secure and stable platform.
The optic is user-friendly, with intuitive adjustment dials and a simple on/off button. The closed emitter design and streamlined profile contribute to a snag-free and comfortable carry experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA is built to last, with a robust aluminum housing and a scratch-resistant lens coating. The closed emitter design provides added protection against the elements, ensuring long-term reliability. Maintenance is simple, requiring only a quick wipe with a microfiber cloth to keep the lens clean and clear.
With proper care, the RFX45 should provide years of reliable service. The RFX45 demonstrates the robust engineering standards that Viridian brings to the table.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA includes a low Picatinny mount for immediate installation on compatible firearms. The ACRO footprint allows for compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket slides and mounting solutions. While the RFX45 itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, its compatibility with various mounts allows users to tailor it to their specific needs and preferences.
The included low Picatinny mount is certainly a nice addition and makes the RFX45 ready to use out of the box. Furthermore, there are no provisions for adding an external auto brightness sensor, but the user-adjustable settings work very well.
Pros and Cons of Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA
Pros
- Closed emitter design eliminates obstructed views in adverse conditions.
- Bright and clear 5 MOA green dot provides excellent visibility.
- Robust construction ensures long-term durability.
- ACRO footprint offers wide compatibility with mounting solutions.
- Intuitive controls and easy zeroing process.
Cons
- Lack of shake-awake functionality.
- Price point is relatively high compared to some open emitter options.
Who Should Buy Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA?
The Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA is perfect for individuals who prioritize reliability and performance in all conditions. It’s an excellent choice for law enforcement, military personnel, and concealed carriers who need a dependable aiming solution. Competitive shooters who require rapid target acquisition and consistent accuracy will also benefit from the RFX45’s performance.
Anyone prioritizing shake-awake functionality or those on a very tight budget might want to consider alternative options. Must-have accessories include a high-quality holster that accommodates the optic and a lens cleaning kit for maintaining optimal clarity.
Conclusion on Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA
The Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA is a well-designed and highly functional optic that delivers on its promise of reliable performance in any environment. While the price point may be higher than some open emitter options, the added durability and consistent performance of the closed emitter design justify the investment for those who demand the best. I would personally recommend the RFX45 to anyone looking for a top-tier pistol red dot sight.
The peace of mind knowing that your optic will function flawlessly in rain, snow, or dusty conditions is invaluable. If you’re ready to upgrade your pistol with a dependable and high-performing red dot sight, the Viridian RFX45 Closed Emitter Green Dot Sight 5 MOA is an excellent choice.