I’ve always been a fan of iron sights, but lately, the allure of red dot sights has been hard to resist. So, when the Bushnell RXS-250 landed on my desk, I was eager to see if it could win over a traditionalist like me. Here’s a breakdown of my experience with this sight, including its best features, some drawbacks, and how it performed on the range.
Big Window, Big Advantage
The first thing that struck me about the RXS-250 was the generous window size. Compared to other red dots I’ve handled, it felt open and airy, providing a clear view of the target and its surroundings. This wider field of view made acquiring the red dot faster and more intuitive, especially when transitioning between targets.
Built to Take a Beating
The RXS-250 boasts a rugged, cast aluminum housing. I tossed it in my range bag without any babying, and it emerged unscathed. It also passed the military’s MIL-STD-810G rating for shock and vibration, giving me peace of mind that it can handle the bumps and bangs of real-world use.
Power Up, Power Down
The RXS-250 comes with a clever auto-shutoff feature that extends battery life – a huge plus for someone who forgets to turn things off like me. It also offers a staggering 50,000 hours of battery life on setting five, which translates to years of use before needing a replacement. On the other hand, some users online have mentioned a slight delay in the red dot reticle appearing when using the auto-shutoff function. It wasn’t a dealbreaker for me, but it’s worth considering if you prioritize instantaneous activation.
Finding the Perfect Dot
The RXS-250 features 10 brightness settings, making it adaptable to any lighting condition. From the dimmest indoor range to a bright, sunny day at the shooting pit, I was always able to find a crisp and clear red dot that didn’t wash out or obscure my target.
Zeroing In
Zeroing the RXS-250 was a breeze. The windage and elevation adjustments offered a satisfying click feel, and I was able to get it dialed in on target quickly. Some online reviewers have commented that the adjustment dials are a little small, but I found them easy to manipulate with my fingers, even while wearing gloves.
Field Performance
Out on the range, the RXS-250 truly came alive. The large window and clear dot made acquiring targets a snap, and follow-up shots were a breeze. The sight didn’t lose zero throughout my session, and it held up well to the recoil of my pistol.
A Sight for Many Firearms
The RXS-250 comes with a Picatinny mount, making it compatible with a wide range of pistols, rifles, and shotguns. Whether you’re looking for a red dot for everyday carry on your pistol or a close-quarters sight for your AR-15, the RXS-250 has you covered.
The Verdict
The Bushnell RXS-250 is a compelling option for shooters looking for a feature-rich red dot sight without breaking the bank. The generous window, long battery life, and multiple brightness settings make it a versatile performer in any lighting. While the auto-shutoff activation might be a touch slow for some users, and the adjustment dials could be a tad bigger, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise excellent red dot sight.
If you’re on the fence about making the jump to red dot sights, the RXS-250 is a great place to start. It’s a solid option for both beginners and experienced shooters alike.