The Trijicon RMR Type 2 has become an extension of my sidearm. It’s earned its spot there through countless range trips, competition shooting, and everyday carry. Here’s a breakdown of my experience with this red dot sight, highlighting its best features, some drawbacks to consider, and how it performs in real-world use.
Built Like a Tank: Durability You Can Trust
Let’s start with what Trijicon is known for: bombproof construction. The RMR Type 2 feels like it could survive a nuclear winter. It’s machined from tough 7075-T6 aluminum and has a reputation for taking a beating. I’ve dropped it (unintentionally, of course) and put hundreds of rounds through various firearms it’s been mounted on, and it’s never flinched. This optic is built for serious use.
Crystal Clear View and Unbeatable Dot
The RMR Type 2’s glass is some of the clearest I’ve seen on a red dot sight. There’s no distortion or fisheye effect, and the dot itself is crisp and precise. I went with the adjustable LED version, and the brightness range is fantastic. Whether I’m lining up a shot in bright sunlight or low-light conditions, the dot is always clear and easy to pick up.
Finding the Dot Quickly: Acquisition is a Breeze
One of the biggest advantages of a red dot sight is the speed of target acquisition. With the RMR Type 2, finding the dot and aligning it with the target feels instinctive. The generous eye relief allows for a natural presentation from the holster, and the dot seems to appear right where my eye expects it to be. This translates to faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy, especially under pressure.
Battery Life that Goes the Distance
Trijicon boasts an impressive battery life for the RMR Type 2, and in my experience, it holds true. I haven’t had to replace the battery yet, even after months of use. The automatic brightness adjustment helps conserve battery life, and a single CR2032 coin battery keeps things running. It’s a relief not to worry about my red dot sight dying when I need it most.
A Smaller Window: A Minor Trade-Off
There’s no such thing as a perfect red dot sight, and the RMR Type 2’s Achilles’ heel, for some, might be the sight window. It’s on the smaller side compared to some competitors. While the clear glass mitigates this somewhat, it can take a little practice to find the dot consistently when drawing from the holster. For experienced red dot users, it’s a non-issue, but new users might find it takes some getting accustomed to.
What People Are Saying Online
Customer reviews of the Trijicon RMR Type 2 are overwhelmingly positive. Users praise its bombproof construction, exceptional clarity, and intuitive dot acquisition. Battery life is another common perk mentioned, with many shooters reporting extended use on a single battery. However, some users do echo my sentiment about the sight window size, suggesting it might have a slight learning curve for beginners.
Alternatives to Consider
The RMR Type 2 reigns supreme in the ruggedness department, but there are other red dot options out there. The Aimpoint Micro T-2 is another popular choice, known for its incredible battery life and slightly larger sight window. The Shield SMSc offers a miniature red dot perfect for concealed carry, while the Holosun 507C boasts a wider field of view and multiple reticle options.
Perfect Fit for Various Firearms
The RMR Type 2’s versatility is a major plus. With the proper mounting plate, it can be mounted on a wide range of pistols, rifles, and even shotguns. I’ve used it on everything from a compact Glock to a full-size competition pistol, and it feels right at home on each platform.
The Final Verdict: A Battle-Proven Performer
The Trijicon RMR Type 2 isn’t the fanciest red dot sight on the market, but it’s one of the most reliable and dependable. It’s built tough, offers a clear sight picture with a crisp dot, and excels in target acquisition. The battery life is phenomenal, and it adapts to various firearms with the right mounting plate. While the sight window might take some getting used to, the overall performance and rock-solid construction make the Trijicon RMR Type 2 an exceptional choice for serious shooters.