Viridian Weapon Technologies EON 1x20mm Reflex Red Dot Sight Review

First Impressions of Viridian Weapon Technologies EON 1x20mm Reflex Red Dot Sight

The Viridian Weapon Technologies EON 1x20mm Reflex Red Dot Sight promises a budget-friendly entry into the world of red dot optics, a tempting proposition for experienced shooters seeking an affordable backup or new enthusiasts looking to upgrade from iron sights. Viridian Weapon Technologies aims to deliver reliable performance without breaking the bank, and the EON seems poised to do just that with its compact design and dual-color illumination. Could this be the optic that finally democratizes the red dot sight, making it accessible to everyone?

I’ve always been a fan of reflex sights for their speed and ease of target acquisition, particularly in dynamic shooting scenarios. However, quality red dots can be expensive, and I needed a durable, yet budget-friendly optic for a dedicated .22LR rifle used primarily for training new shooters; one that could handle some rough handling and still hold zero.

My initial impression upon unboxing the Viridian Weapon Technologies EON 1x20mm Reflex Red Dot Sight was positive, given the price point. The sight felt surprisingly solid for its weight, and the controls seemed intuitive. It definitely felt like a step above some of the other ultra-budget options I’d seen.

Compared to a Sig Sauer Romeo5 or a Holosun HS403B (both excellent but more expensive options), the EON lacks the refined finish and premium feel. However, it seemed more robust than some of the no-name red dots flooding the market. I chose the EON for its advertised durability and the Viridian Weapon Technologies reputation, hoping for a reliable performer at a fraction of the cost of the premium options.

Honestly, I was cautiously optimistic. I knew that at this price, compromises were inevitable, but I was hoping the Viridian Weapon Technologies EON 1x20mm Reflex Red Dot Sight would deliver a usable and reliable sighting solution for my .22LR training rifle. Only time, and range time, would tell.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Viridian Weapon Technologies EON 1x20mm Reflex Red Dot Sight to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Viridian Weapon Technologies EON 1x20mm Reflex Red Dot Sight was at my local outdoor shooting range. I mounted it on my .22LR rifle and spent the afternoon zeroing it at 25 yards and running drills. The weather was mild and sunny, providing ideal conditions.

The sight was easy to zero with its tactile adjustment turrets. The 2 MOA dot proved crisp and clear, and the ability to switch between red and green illumination was useful for different target backgrounds. I did find that the dot seemed slightly less defined at the highest brightness settings, but this was only noticeable when looking at bright, white targets.

The only initial issue I encountered was a slight loosening of the mounting screws after about 100 rounds. A quick tightening with the included Allen wrench solved the problem, but it’s something to keep an eye on. Overall, the first use was encouraging and demonstrated the potential of the Viridian Weapon Technologies EON 1x20mm Reflex Red Dot Sight.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Viridian Weapon Technologies EON 1x20mm Reflex Red Dot Sight has held up reasonably well. It’s been subjected to several range trips, a couple of informal plinking sessions in the woods, and even a light rain shower.

While the finish shows some minor scratches and scuffs from being tossed into my range bag, the sight has maintained its zero and continues to function reliably. The battery life, while not exceptional, is adequate, and I’ve only had to replace the battery once. I always remove the battery when storing the rifle for extended periods.

Compared to my more expensive red dots, the EON lacks some of the refinements like shake-awake technology and automatic brightness adjustment. However, for its intended purpose as a budget-friendly training optic, it has exceeded my expectations. It’s not a replace-your-Aimpoint sight, but it’s a solid, usable option.

Breaking Down the Features of Viridian Weapon Technologies EON 1x20mm Reflex Red Dot Sight

Specifications

The Viridian Weapon Technologies EON 1x20mm Reflex Red Dot Sight boasts a set of specifications that reflect its focus on affordability and functionality. Its key features include:

• Magnification: 1x – ideal for close-to-medium-range shooting and maintaining situational awareness.
• Objective Lens Diameter: 20mm – provides a decent field of view while keeping the overall size compact.
• Reticle: 2 MOA Red Dot – a common and versatile dot size suitable for various applications.
• Illumination Type: LED – efficient and provides adequate brightness in most lighting conditions.
• Illumination Color: Green, Red – offers flexibility for different environments and user preferences.
• Adjustment Type: MOA – standard adjustment system for precise zeroing.
• Adjustment Click Value: 2 MOA – each click moves the point of impact by 2 inches at 100 yards.
• Emitter Type: Enclosed – protects the LED emitter from the elements and potential damage.
• Color: Black – a common and practical finish for firearms optics.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the sight’s usability and performance. The 1x magnification allows for both-eyes-open shooting, enhancing situational awareness. The 2 MOA dot provides a precise aiming point without obscuring small targets at longer distances. The dual-color illumination caters to different lighting conditions and user preferences, while the enclosed emitter ensures reliable operation even in adverse weather.

Performance & Functionality

The Viridian Weapon Technologies EON 1x20mm Reflex Red Dot Sight performs its primary job – providing a clear and accurate aiming point – admirably. Accuracy is consistent once properly zeroed, and the dot remains visible in most lighting conditions.

The main strength is its simplicity and ease of use. The controls are straightforward, and the sight is quick to mount and zero. However, the brightness adjustment could be smoother, and the highest settings exhibit a slight blooming effect.

The EON meets expectations for a budget red dot. It’s not the most refined or feature-rich optic, but it delivers reliable performance at an affordable price. It gets the job done without any unnecessary frills.

Design & Ergonomics

The Viridian Weapon Technologies EON 1x20mm Reflex Red Dot Sight features a compact and lightweight design. The materials used feel reasonably durable, although not as premium as higher-end options. The overall weight is minimal, ensuring it doesn’t add significant bulk to your firearm.

The sight is generally user-friendly, with intuitive controls and a simple mounting system. There isn’t a steep learning curve, making it suitable for both experienced shooters and beginners.

Durability & Maintenance

The Viridian Weapon Technologies EON 1x20mm Reflex Red Dot Sight seems reasonably durable for its price point. While it’s not designed for extreme abuse, it can withstand normal handling and use. It’s proven reliable in my use on a .22LR.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lens with a microfiber cloth. Battery replacement is straightforward, and the enclosed emitter design minimizes the risk of internal damage.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Viridian Weapon Technologies EON 1x20mm Reflex Red Dot Sight comes with the necessary mounting hardware and an Allen wrench for adjustments.

It uses a standard Picatinny rail mount, making it compatible with a wide range of firearms and aftermarket accessories. While there are no specific customization options offered by Viridian Weapon Technologies, the sight can be paired with various aftermarket risers and magnifiers.

Pros and Cons of Viridian Weapon Technologies EON 1x20mm Reflex Red Dot Sight