My first impression of Viridian RFX45 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black | 24 x 15.5mm 5 MOA Green Dot
The world of red dot sights has exploded in recent years, but few entries manage to genuinely excite a seasoned optics user. The Viridian RFX45 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black | 24 x 15.5mm 5 MOA Green Dot promises something different: a closed emitter design with an ACRO footprint, offering durability and compatibility in a compact package. Having spent over a decade fiddling with everything from iron sights to high-end scopes, I was keen to see if this optic could live up to the hype and carve its own niche in a crowded market.
For years, I’ve been searching for a truly reliable pistol optic that could withstand harsh conditions without sacrificing clarity or ease of use. Open emitter red dots are great, but they’re too susceptible to rain, snow, and debris. That’s why the Viridian RFX45’s closed emitter immediately grabbed my attention.
The unboxing experience was straightforward. The Viridian RFX45 felt surprisingly robust for its weight, the matte black finish giving it a tactical look and feel. Its compact size and the machined 6061 aluminum housing inspired confidence; this wasn’t some cheap knock-off.
Compared to a Trijicon RMR and a Holosun 507C, the Viridian RFX45 presented a more streamlined profile, akin to the Aimpoint ACRO. I chose the Viridian because of its closed emitter design at a relatively accessible price point, and the inclusion of an RMR adapter plate was a definite bonus. My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive; the sight felt well-built, looked good, and offered a feature set that catered directly to my needs.
Real-World Testing: Putting Viridian RFX45 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black | 24 x 15.5mm 5 MOA Green Dot to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Viridian RFX45 was at an outdoor shooting range, where I mounted it on a Glock 19 MOS using the provided RMR adapter plate. The weather was typical for late spring – intermittent showers and overcast skies. This presented a perfect opportunity to test the sight’s claimed IPX6 waterproof rating.
The green dot was crisp and easily visible, even against varying light conditions, and the side-mounted controls were intuitive and easy to manipulate, even with gloved hands. I immediately appreciated the clear sight picture offered by the 24×15.5mm objective lens. Even with the rain, I experienced no issues with water obscuring the dot.
After running through a few magazines, zeroing was a breeze. The 5 MOA dot size struck a good balance between precision and ease of acquisition, and the 90 MOA windage and elevation adjustments offered plenty of room for fine-tuning. After about 100 rounds, the Viridian RFX45 held zero perfectly.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the next several months, I subjected the Viridian RFX45 to more rigorous testing. This included several range sessions, a practical shooting competition, and even a muddy hike. I left the pistol with the optic mounted in my truck bed overnight during a thunderstorm to check the seals.
The sight held up remarkably well. There were no signs of internal fogging or water intrusion, and the dot remained bright and consistent. After about 1000 rounds, the sight showed only minor wear on the edges of the aluminum housing.
Cleaning was simple; a quick wipe with a microfiber cloth was all it took to remove dirt and grime. Compared to my previous experiences with open emitter sights, the Viridian RFX45 was significantly easier to maintain in adverse conditions. Overall, the Viridian RFX45 has exceeded my expectations in terms of reliability and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Viridian RFX45 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black | 24 x 15.5mm 5 MOA Green Dot
Specifications
The Viridian RFX45 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black | 24 x 15.5mm 5 MOA Green Dot boasts a range of impressive specifications. It features a 5 MOA green dot reticle for rapid target acquisition. The objective lens measures 24mm x 15.5mm, offering a wide field of view.
The housing is machined from 6061 aluminum with a hardcoat anodization, ensuring durability and resistance to wear. It weighs just 1.73 oz and has a length of 1.90 inches. The sight runs on a single CR2032 battery, providing an estimated battery life of 50,000 hours.
Other key specifications include IPX6 waterproof rating, side-mounted controls, 8 daytime brightness settings, and 2-night vision settings. It has a 90 MOA adjustment range for both windage and elevation, and it mounts via an ACRO footprint, with an included RMR adapter plate. The inclusion of the ECR INSTANT-ON feature is an added bonus. These specifications are crucial for reliable performance in various environments and enhance the overall shooting experience.
Performance & Functionality
The Viridian RFX45 excels in performance and functionality. The green dot is incredibly easy to pick up in bright daylight, offering a clear and precise aiming point. The 5 MOA dot size is a good compromise between precision for longer shots and quick target acquisition at close range.
The side-mounted controls allow for easy brightness adjustments, even while wearing gloves, and the ECR INSTANT-ON feature ensures that the sight is always ready when you need it. The closed emitter design effectively prevents water and debris from obstructing the sight picture, enhancing reliability in harsh conditions. One slight weakness is that, while the adjustments are tactile and audible, they could be a bit more defined. Overall, the sight performs admirably and meets my expectations for a duty-grade optic.
Design & Ergonomics
The Viridian RFX45’s design is well-thought-out and ergonomic. The machined 6061 aluminum housing provides a rugged and durable platform while keeping the weight to a minimum. The matte black finish gives the sight a sleek and professional appearance.
The side-mounted controls are easily accessible and intuitive to use, and the compact size of the sight minimizes obstruction of the shooter’s field of view. The sight mounts securely to both ACRO and RMR footprint slides with the provided adapter. The low weight of the sight is great for maintaining balance on a pistol. There’s virtually no learning curve with this optic.
Durability & Maintenance
The Viridian RFX45 is built to last. The 6061 aluminum housing and hardcoat anodization provide excellent resistance to scratches, impacts, and corrosion. The IPX6 waterproof rating ensures that the sight can withstand exposure to rain and other environmental factors.
Maintenance is straightforward; a quick wipe with a clean cloth is usually all that’s needed to keep the sight in optimal condition. The closed emitter design minimizes the need for frequent cleaning. With proper care, the Viridian RFX45 should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Viridian RFX45 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black | 24 x 15.5mm 5 MOA Green Dot comes with an RMR adapter plate, which greatly expands its compatibility with a wide range of pistols. It also includes a tool for battery replacement and adjustment. While it doesn’t have a wide range of brand-specific accessories, it is compatible with any standard ACRO or RMR footprint mounts and accessories. This makes it easy to customize the sight to fit your specific needs and preferences. The battery compartment is also easily accessible.
Pros and Cons of Viridian RFX45 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black | 24 x 15.5mm 5 MOA Green Dot
Pros
- Closed emitter design: Offers superior protection against water, dust, and debris.
- 5 MOA green dot: Provides excellent visibility and rapid target acquisition.
- Durable construction: Machined from 6061 aluminum with hardcoat anodization.
- ACRO and RMR footprint compatibility: Can be mounted on a wide range of pistols.
- Long battery life: Up to 50,000 hours on a single CR2032 battery.
Cons
- Adjustment clicks could be more defined.
- Price may be prohibitive for some users.
Who Should Buy Viridian RFX45 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black | 24 x 15.5mm 5 MOA Green Dot?
The Viridian RFX45 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and concealed carry holders who demand a reliable and durable optic for their pistols. It is also well-suited for competitive shooters who need a fast and accurate sight for rapid target transitions. The green dot makes it a great option for shooters with astigmatism who struggle with red dots.
Those who are extremely budget-conscious or who primarily shoot in controlled environments might consider other options. A weapon light is a must-have accessory. A high-quality holster compatible with the mounted optic is also crucial.
Conclusion on Viridian RFX45 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black | 24 x 15.5mm 5 MOA Green Dot
The Viridian RFX45 Green Dot Reflex Sight Black | 24 x 15.5mm 5 MOA Green Dot is a standout optic that delivers on its promises of durability, reliability, and performance. The closed emitter design, combined with the crisp green dot and robust construction, makes it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a duty-grade pistol sight.
While the price is a bit higher than some of its competitors, the added features and benefits justify the cost. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Viridian RFX45 to anyone looking for a top-tier pistol optic. If you’re serious about your shooting and demand the best, the Viridian RFX45 is worth the investment. Upgrade your pistol today and experience the difference firsthand!