As a concealed carrier, I’m constantly on the hunt for gear that’s both reliable and minimizes printing. When it comes to sights, red dots are king for fast target acquisition, but bulky optics can snag on clothing. Enter the HEX Wasp from Springfield Armory. This micro red dot promises pinpoint accuracy in a miniature footprint, making it ideal for my everyday carry setup.
Built to Last
The HEX Wasp is a tiny titan. Machined from 6061-T6 aluminum with a black hard coat anodizing, it feels reassuringly solid in my hand. The top section features a hexagonal design (the namesake “HEX”), which adds rigidity and protects the lens. Speaking of the lens, it has a slight lip around the edge, offering some extra impact protection – a nice touch for a sight likely to spend time banging around on my hip.
Zeroing In
Mounting the Wasp was a breeze. It uses a common footprint compatible with several concealed carry pistols, and Springfield offers adapter plates for various models. Once mounted, zeroing was straightforward thanks to the included adjustment tool. The windage and elevation dials have a satisfying click detent, making precise adjustments easy.
A Dot with Bite
Powering on the Wasp is simple – a single button on the side cycles through brightness settings. While it lacks the automatic on/off features of some higher-end optics, the battery life is impressive, lasting for thousands of hours on a single CR1632. The 3 MOA red dot itself is crisp and clear, even in bright sunlight. Some users on forums have mentioned a slight flicker at lower brightness settings, but I haven’t experienced this myself.
Field Testing the Sting
At the range, the HEX Wasp truly came alive. The small profile didn’t obscure my target picture, and the red dot provided a clear aiming point for rapid fire. The sight held zero flawlessly through a full day of drills, and the lightweight design didn’t add noticeable weight to my pistol.
Living with the Wasp
For concealed carry, the Wasp’s size is its biggest advantage. It disappears entirely under my holster, and the snag factor is minimal. While the always-on design might be a concern for some, I haven’t experienced any accidental activation during daily carry.
The Verdict
The HEX Wasp isn’t feature-packed, but it excels where it counts – durability, clarity, and size. While some online comments discuss a lack of auto-brightness or a slightly noticeable refresh rate, these haven’t been dealbreakers for me. For those seeking a no-frills, reliable red dot sight for their concealed carry pistol, the HEX Wasp is a strong contender.
Alternatives and Applications
If absolute top-of-the-line features are your priority, there are red dot sights with more options. However, for the price-conscious concealed carrier, the Wasp offers exceptional value. In terms of compatibility, the HEX Wasp shines on slim-profile pistols like the Springfield Hellcat or SIG P365.
Overall, the HEX Wasp has earned a permanent spot on my concealed carry setup. Its combination of toughness, clarity, and minimal footprint makes it a perfect match for my everyday carry needs.