Open Vs. Enclosed Red Dot Optics — What’s the Deal?

[Talyn]

Let’s talk red dots. Specifically, let’s talk about the differences between an open and enclosed red dot optic. We’ll cover the benefits of each design as well as the downsides and where they fit most appropriately in the world of defensive, duty, and competitive firearms.

Open Vs. Enclosed Red Dot Optics

The perfect shotgun and the perfect optic.

Enclosed emitter red dot optics offer higher levels of reliability than other pistol-sized red dots.

 

[Keystone19250]

Let’s talk red dots. Specifically, let’s talk about the differences between an open and enclosed red dot optic. We’ll cover the benefits of each design as well as the downsides and where they fit most appropriately in the world of defensive, duty, and competitive firearms.

Open Vs. Enclosed Red Dot Optics

View attachment 31482
The perfect shotgun and the perfect optic.

View attachment 31483
Enclosed emitter red dot optics offer higher levels of reliability than other pistol-sized red dots.

Good article on open and inclosed optics, I will say the Holosun 507C I have on my Elite 10mm which is an open type I have no issues with except that the lens does get dirty while carrying it and is time consuming to adequately clean.

 

[Bassbob]

Good article. Explains the differences well. I have a 510c on my beretta 1301 and I have a 512c which tracking says will show up here tomorrow. I really, REALLY like the 510c. Ultimately I will replace all my Romeo 5s with either the 510 or the 512. Having not used a 512 yet I can't say which, but likely a mix of both depending on the intended purpose of the weapon. Assuming I like the 512c as much as the 510c, it will likely top of my primary shotgun, which will be heading my way soon hopefully. I'm kinda worried about what it says in the article about not being as clear and limiting my FOV.

 

[Talyn]

Even though I have a couple "open" MRDs (I call the HUDs - Heads-Up-Displays like in the mil aircraft), I'll probably stick with my preferred enclosed MRDs (Romeo 5s) due to their greater ability to properly work in inclement weather conditions that can occur in my area, as per the point made in the article.

 

[Bassbob]

Open:

Enclosed:

I haven't had any range time with the enclosed yet, but just sighting through it I like it. I will be buying more of them to replace my Romeos.