The Trijicon MRO has been a source of curiosity (and some controversy) for me since its release. On paper, it boasts everything a red dot sight should be: rugged Trijicon pedigree, wide field of view, and a crisp dot. However, after spending some range time with it, I’m left with a complex verdict.
Best Features and Pros in Action
Let’s start with the positives. The MRO is undeniably tough. Trijicon optics are renowned for their ability to take a beating, and the MRO feels built like a tank. I tossed it around in my range bag, slung it through rough terrain, and even bumped it off a barricade – no worse for wear. The 70 MOA adjustment range is generous, allowing for precise zeroing at various distances. The dot itself is crisp and clear, offering a good balance between size and visibility.
The MRO’s biggest selling point for me is the generous field of view. It offers a clear picture of your surroundings, which is a massive benefit for close-quarters situations. This wider view, compared to some competitor models, translates to faster target acquisition, especially when transitioning between targets.
Cons and Frustrations
However, the MRO isn’t without its flaws. The most common complaint I’ve encountered, and one I experienced myself, is the potential for parallax issues. Parallax refers to the apparent movement of the reticle relative to the target when your eye moves behind the sight. In some cases, the dot would seem to “swim” slightly when I shifted my head position. While minor, it can be distracting and throws off precise aiming at distance.
Another point of contention is the lack of an adjustable diopter. This means some shooters might struggle to achieve a perfectly crisp sight picture. While I personally didn’t have a major issue, it’s worth considering if you have less-than-perfect vision.
Online Chatter: Divided Opinions
The online community seems to mirror my own experience – a mix of praise and criticism. Some users rave about the MRO’s durability and clear view, while others lament the parallax and lack of diopter adjustment. One Reddit thread [Reddit discussion about Trijicon MRO] perfectly encapsulates this divide, with some users vouching for the MRO based on years of reliable use, while others detail their frustrations with the optical quirks.
Alternatives and Applications
If the MRO’s potential drawbacks give you pause, there are certainly alternatives. Aimpoint’s T2 is a popular choice, known for its near-legendary durability and minimal parallax. Similarly sized red dots like the Sig Sauer Romeo5 offer a more budget-friendly option with good overall performance.
The MRO shines, however, for shooters who prioritize a wide field of view for close-quarters combat or tactical situations. It would be a great fit for an AR-15 pistol or any carbine set up for home defense or breaching scenarios.
The Final Verdict
The Trijicon MRO is a capable red dot sight, but it’s not perfect. The generous field of view and rugged construction are undeniable assets. However, the potential for parallax and the lack of a diopter adjustment might be dealbreakers for some shooters. Ultimately, deciding if the MRO is right for you depends on your priorities and shooting style. If a wide field of view is paramount, the MRO is worth considering, as long as you’re aware of its potential limitations. If absolute precision at distance is your primary concern, you might be better served by a different red dot option.