For shooters looking for a fuss-free red dot sight that won’t break the bank, the Bushnell TRS-25 has become a popular choice. I recently took the plunge and mounted this little red dot on my AR-15, and after a good chunk of range time, here’s my take.
Best Features and Pros:
- Affordability: Let’s be honest, the price tag is a major draw. You won’t find many red dot sights this effective at this price point.
- Durability: This red dot feels solid. It’s constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum and is IPX7 waterproof, meaning it can take a dunking for up to 30 minutes at a depth of one meter. No worries about rain or even accidental tumbles in the mud.
- Hold Zero: This thing holds zero surprisingly well. I sighted it in right out of the box, and it hasn’t budged after multiple range sessions.
- Simple Controls: The TRS-25 boasts two dials: one for brightness adjustment and another for windage and elevation adjustments. They’re easy to use with gloved hands, and the click detents on the adjustment knobs provide a positive tactile feedback.
- Battery Life: Bushnell claims up to 1,500 hours of battery life on the medium brightness setting. While I haven’t been able to put that claim to the ultimate test yet, the battery life seems very decent so far. Plus, it uses a common CR2032 battery, which is readily available.
- 11 Brightness Settings: The 11 brightness settings are a major plus. You can easily find the perfect dot intensity for any lighting condition, from low-light shooting to bright sunshine.
Cons and User Experience:
- Glass Clarity: The glass quality isn’t on par with high-end red dots. There’s a slight tinge around the edges, but honestly, for close- to mid-range shooting, it’s perfectly adequate.
- Dot Size: The 3 MOA dot is a good balance for quick target acquisition at close quarters. However, for precise long-range shooting, a smaller dot size might be preferable.
- Battery Compartment: The battery compartment requires an Allen wrench to access, which is a bit inconvenient if you need to change batteries in the field.
Overall, the Bushnell TRS-25 punches above its weight. It’s a dependable red dot that has served me well at the range. While it might not have all the bells and whistles of some high-priced optics, for everyday use and tactical training, it delivers great performance.
What People Are Saying:
Browsing online forums and reviews, the sentiment towards the TRS-25 largely echoes my own experience. Shooters praise its affordability, durability, and ease of use. Some common user comments include:
- “Great value for the money. Perfect for getting started with red dot sights.”
- “Simple and effective. Holds zero well.”
- “Not the clearest glass, but totally usable for close quarters.”
- “Wish the battery compartment didn’t require a tool, but otherwise, a great red dot.”
Alternatives and Applications:
If you’re looking for a more feature-rich red dot with better glass clarity, you might consider the Aimpoint PRO or the Trijicon MRO. However, be prepared to pay a significantly higher price tag.
The Bushnell TRS-25 is a great red dot sight for a variety of applications, including:
- AR-15s for tactical training and home defense
- PCC (pistol caliber carbine) setups
- Shotguns for faster target acquisition
Final Verdict:
The Bushnell TRS-25 is a fantastic option for shooters who prioritize affordability and practicality. It’s a no-nonsense red dot that delivers solid performance without the hefty price tag. If you’re looking for a reliable red dot sight to enhance your AR-15 or other firearm for close- to mid-range shooting, the Bushnell TRS-25 is definitely worth considering.