As an avid hunter and night vision enthusiast, I’ve had the pleasure of testing numerous optics over the years. Today, I’m excited to share my in-depth review of the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro, a red dot sight that has been making waves in the shooting community. Whether you’re a competitive shooter, a hunter, or simply looking to enhance your firearms’ accuracy, this comprehensive review will help you determine if the DeltaPoint Pro is the right choice for your needs.
About Leupold
Before we dive into the specifics of the DeltaPoint Pro, it’s worth taking a moment to appreciate the legacy behind the Leupold brand. Founded in 1907, this American company has been at the forefront of optical innovation for over a century. Leupold has earned a stellar reputation among professional hunters, competitive shooters, and law enforcement officers for their high-quality scopes and optics. The DeltaPoint Pro is a shining example of Leupold’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of firearm optics.
Overview of the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro
The Leupold DeltaPoint Pro is a versatile micro red dot sight designed for use on both handguns and long guns. In recent years, it has gained significant popularity, especially among pistol shooters looking to upgrade their concealed carry or competition setups. But what sets this sight apart in an increasingly crowded market? Let’s break down its features and performance to find out.
- Model #119688 – DeltaPoint Pro Red Dot Sight, 2.5 MOA Dot and a Matte finish
- Leupold’s Professional-Grade Red Dot Optical System offers unmatched light transmission that’s designed to outperform in the most challenging lighting conditions, industry-leading glare reduction for a clear image in harsh, direct light, and the resolution and clarity that professional guides and shooters demand in the field.
Construction and Durability
One of the first things you’ll notice about the DeltaPoint Pro is its robust construction. Leupold has crafted this sight from aircraft-grade aluminum, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of hard use. The optic is further reinforced with a protective steel shroud, adding an extra layer of durability to shield the lens from impacts and abrasions.
I’ve personally put the DeltaPoint Pro through its paces in various challenging conditions, and I’m impressed by its resilience. From accidental drops to the inevitable bumps and scrapes that come with active use, this sight has held up admirably. The IPX8 waterproof rating means it can withstand submersion up to 33 feet, making it a reliable choice for all weather conditions.
Optical Clarity and Field of View
Leupold’s reputation for exceptional glass is well-deserved, and the DeltaPoint Pro doesn’t disappoint in this regard. The lens offers a wide, distortion-free field of view that allows for quick target acquisition and improved situational awareness. This is particularly beneficial in dynamic shooting scenarios or when engaging multiple targets.
The DiamondCoat lens coating adds an extra layer of protection against scratches and abrasions, ensuring the clarity of your sight picture even after extended use. I’ve found the optical quality to be consistently excellent across various lighting conditions, from bright daylight to low-light situations.
One of the standout features of the DeltaPoint Pro is its Twilight Red Dot Light Management System. This proprietary technology optimizes light transmission, resulting in a clearer, crisper dot and enhanced low-light performance. In practical terms, this means you can confidently use the sight in a wider range of lighting conditions, from dawn to dusk and beyond.
Reticle Options and Performance
The DeltaPoint Pro comes in two reticle configurations: a 2.5 MOA dot and a 7.5 MOA triangle. The choice between these options largely comes down to personal preference and intended use.
The 2.5 MOA dot is ideal for precision work and longer-range shooting. I’ve found it to be exceptionally crisp and easy to see, even against complex backgrounds. This smaller dot size allows for more precise shot placement, which can be crucial in competitive shooting or when hunting smaller game.
The 7.5 MOA triangle reticle, on the other hand, is designed for rapid target acquisition in close-quarters situations. The larger size makes it quicker to pick up, especially under stress. This option might be preferable for self-defense scenarios or for shooters who prioritize speed over pinpoint accuracy.
Regardless of which reticle you choose, the DeltaPoint Pro’s design ensures that the dot or triangle appears to float on the target, rather than on the lens itself. This parallax-free performance contributes to faster, more intuitive aiming.
Motion Sensor Technology and Battery Life
One of the most impressive features of the DeltaPoint Pro is its built-in Motion Sensor Technology. After 5 minutes of inactivity, the sight automatically powers down to conserve battery life. The moment you pick up or move your firearm, the sight springs back to life instantly, ready for action.
This smart feature not only extends battery life but also gives users peace of mind knowing their sight will be operational when they need it most. I’ve found this particularly useful for home defense setups or during long hunting trips where constant manual activation isn’t practical.
Speaking of battery life, the DeltaPoint Pro uses a standard CR2032 battery, which is easily accessible thanks to the top-loading battery compartment. This design allows for quick battery changes without removing the sight from your firearm, preserving your zero in the process.
Leupold claims a battery life of 300 to 1600 hours, depending on your brightness settings. In my experience, I’ve been able to get well over a year of regular use before needing a battery change. The motion sensor technology undoubtedly contributes to this impressive longevity.
Brightness Settings and Controls
The DeltaPoint Pro features 8 brightness settings, allowing users to adapt to various lighting conditions quickly. I’ve found the range of settings to be more than adequate, performing well in environments ranging from bright daylight to near-darkness.
The controls are intuitive, with a single button used to cycle through brightness levels. While some users might prefer separate up and down controls, I’ve found that the single-button system becomes second nature with a bit of practice. To change the direction of adjustment, you simply need to hold the button for two seconds.
One minor drawback is that you need to cycle through all settings to return to a previous level. However, the LED flashes to indicate when you’ve reached the highest or lowest setting, which helps prevent confusion.
Mounting and Compatibility
The DeltaPoint Pro is designed to be versatile when it comes to mounting options. It’s compatible with a wide range of firearms, from pistols to rifles and shotguns. The sight comes with a mounting plate that fits many popular optics-ready pistols, and additional mount options are available for various firearms.
For those looking to use the DeltaPoint Pro on a pistol that isn’t optics-ready, there are aftermarket mounting plates and adapters available. I’ve successfully mounted this sight on several different firearms, from my everyday carry pistol to my AR-15, and the process has always been straightforward.
One unique feature of the DeltaPoint Pro is its built-in rear sight channel. This allows for the installation of an optional rear iron sight, providing a backup sighting system without the need for separate mounting solutions. It’s a thoughtful design element that adds versatility and peace of mind, especially for those using the sight on a defensive firearm.
Adjustments and Zeroing
The DeltaPoint Pro features tool-less windage and elevation adjustments, making it easy to zero your sight in the field. The adjustment screws provide positive, audible clicks, with each click representing 1 MOA of adjustment.
I’ve found the zeroing process to be straightforward and precise. Once zeroed, the sight has maintained its settings reliably, even after thousands of rounds and multiple battery changes. The locking adjustment feature is particularly useful, as it prevents unintended changes to your zero during rough handling or transportation.
Performance in the Field
I’ve had the opportunity to use the DeltaPoint Pro in various shooting scenarios, from the range to the hunting field, and its performance has been consistently impressive.
In terms of accuracy, the clarity of the dot and the wide field of view make it easy to acquire and stay on target. I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my shooting speed and accuracy, especially on moving targets. The parallax-free design means that as long as you can see the dot, you’re on target, regardless of eye position. This is particularly beneficial in unconventional shooting positions or under stress.
The durability of the DeltaPoint Pro has been put to the test through inadvertent drops, inclement weather, and the general wear and tear of regular use. Throughout it all, the sight has maintained its zero and continued to function flawlessly. The waterproof and fog proof construction has proven its worth during hunts in less-than-ideal weather conditions.
One area where the DeltaPoint Pro truly shines is in low-light conditions. The crisp, bright reticle remains easily visible as daylight fades, extending your effective shooting time during dawn and dusk hunts. The motion sensor technology has been a game-changer for me, ensuring the sight is always ready when I need it without constantly worrying about battery drain.
Comparisons to Other Red Dot Sights
While the DeltaPoint Pro stands out in many ways, it’s worth considering how it compares to some of its competitors. The Trijicon RMR has long been considered the gold standard in this category, and the DeltaPoint Pro certainly gives it a run for its money.
Compared to the RMR, the DeltaPoint Pro offers a larger field of view and a slightly larger window, which some shooters find beneficial for faster target acquisition. The top-loading battery compartment of the DeltaPoint Pro is also a significant advantage over the RMR’s bottom-loading design, which requires removal of the sight for battery changes.
However, the RMR is slightly more compact, which might be a consideration for concealed carry applications. Both sights are known for their durability and reliability, so the choice often comes down to personal preference and specific use case.
When compared to options like the Holosun 507C or the Sig Sauer Romeo1Pro, the DeltaPoint Pro generally offers superior glass quality and a more robust build. However, these competitors often come in at a lower price point and may offer features like solar backup power or multiple reticle options in a single unit.
Pros and Cons
After extensive use, here’s a summary of the pros and cons of the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro:
Pros:
- Exceptional build quality and durability
- Crystal clear, wide field of view
- Intuitive controls and easy-to-use features
- Versatile mounting options
- Motion sensor technology for extended battery life
- Easy, top-loading battery replacement
- Excellent performance in various lighting conditions
- Optional iron sight integration
Cons:
- Premium price point compared to some competitors
- Single button control may take some getting used to
- Larger footprint may not be ideal for all concealed carry applications
- Limited reticle options compared to some competitors
Final Thoughts
After spending considerable time with the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro, I can confidently say that it’s a top-tier red dot sight that lives up to the Leupold name. Its combination of durability, optical clarity, and user-friendly features make it a solid choice for both novice and experienced shooters alike.
While it does come with a higher price tag than some competitors, I believe the quality, performance, and reliability justify the investment. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your concealed carry pistol, enhance your competition setup, or add versatility to your hunting rifle, the DeltaPoint Pro is certainly worth serious consideration.
As with any firearm accessory, the best gear is ultimately the gear that works for you. If possible, I’d recommend trying out the DeltaPoint Pro at your local range before making a purchase. However, based on my extensive experience with this sight, I believe many shooters will find it to be a valuable addition to their arsenal.
Remember, a red dot sight is a tool, and like any tool, its effectiveness ultimately depends on the user’s skill and practice. The DeltaPoint Pro provides an excellent platform for improving your shooting, but it’s not a substitute for proper training and regular practice.
In conclusion, the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro stands as a testament to Leupold’s commitment to quality and innovation in the world of firearms optics. Its blend of rugged durability, optical clarity, and smart features make it a versatile and reliable choice for a wide range of shooting applications. While it may not be the perfect fit for every shooter or every situation, it’s certainly earned its place as one of the top contenders in the red dot sight market.