Holosun HS403R Red Dot Sight Review
Introduction
As an avid shooter and outdoor enthusiast, I was excited to get my hands on the Holosun HS403R Red Dot Sight and put it through its paces. In this review, I’ll be sharing my experiences with this optic, including its features, performance, and any notable pros and cons.
Unboxing and First Impressions
Upon unboxing the HS403R, I was impressed with its solid build quality and sleek design. The package includes the red dot sight, a set of CR123A batteries, and a manual. The optic feels substantial in the hand, with a weighty 5.6 ounces (159g) and a compact dimensions of 1.25" x 1.5" x 3.5" (31.8mm x 38.1mm x 88.9mm).
Features and Operation
The HS403R is a standalone red dot sight with a 2 MOA dot size and 12-hour runtime on a single set of CR123A batteries. It’s designed for use on rifles, handguns, and shotguns, making it a versatile option for various shooting applications. Some key features to note are:
- Adjustable brightness: The HS403R has an adjustable brightness setting, allowing you to tailor the dot brightness to your environment.
- Windage and elevation adjustments: The optic offers cree-tight and easy-to-manipulate adjustments for windage and elevation, making it simple to zero the sight.
- Dot reticle: The 2 MOA dot reticle is clear and easy to see, even in low-light conditions.
- Waterproof: The HS403R is designed to withstand the elements, with an IPX7-rated water resistance.
Performance
During testing, I found the HS403R to be reliable and consistent in its performance. The dot was bright and clear, even in bright sunlight, and the adjustability of the brightness setting allowed me to customize the optic to my preferences. The windage and elevation adjustments were effortless to use, and the optic quickly settled onto my Shooting System (AKA "zeroes") with minimal fuss.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Brightness: The HS403R’s adjustable brightness setting made it easy to use in various lighting conditions.
- Adjustability: The optic’s adjustments were simple to use, making it easy to zero and maintain a bead on the target.
- Battery Life: The 12-hour runtime on a single set of CR123A batteries was impressive, especially considering the optic’s brightness and adjustability.
- Durability: The HS403R’s build quality and rugged design gave me confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of regular use.
- Affordability: At its price point, the HS403R represents excellent value for its performance and features.
Cons:
- Weight: While the HS403R is a solidly built optic, its 5.6 ounces (159g) made it slightly heavier than some other options on the market.
- Ergonomics: Some users might find the optic’s shape and size a bit awkward to handle, particularly if they’re accustomed to smaller or larger red dot sights.
- Limited accessories: The optic comes with a basic manual and a set of CR123A batteries, but some users might find the lack of additional accessories (e.g., a hard case or lens cover) limiting.
Conclusion
The Holosun HS403R Red Dot Sight is a reliable and feature-rich optic that offers excellent value. Its adjustable brightness, easy adjustability, and battery life make it an excellent choice for hunters, competitors, or recreational shooters. While it may not be perfect, the HS403R’s pros far outweigh its cons, making it a solid addition to any shooter’s kit.
