As an avid hunter and night vision enthusiast, I’ve had the pleasure of testing numerous optics over the years. Today, I’m thrilled to share my in-depth review of the Trijicon RMR Type 2 Adjustable LED 3.25 MOA Red-Dot Sight. This compact reflex sight has garnered quite a reputation among shooters, and after extensive use, I can confidently say it lives up to the hype.
Rugged Construction for Demanding Conditions
The first aspect that truly impresses me about the RMR Type 2 is its incredibly rugged construction. Machined from forged 7075-T6 aluminum alloy, this sight is built to withstand the harshest conditions you might encounter in the field. Despite its robust build, it weighs a mere 1.2 ounces, making it an ultralight addition to your firearm that won’t throw off your balance or add unnecessary bulk.
What sets the RMR Type 2 apart is its ability to handle the intense G-forces associated with slide-mounted use on pistols. I’ve put thousands of rounds downrange with RMRs mounted on various handguns, and they’ve never faltered. The patented housing shape is ingeniously designed to absorb impacts and divert stresses away from the lens, ensuring longevity and reliability even under heavy use.
For hunters who find themselves trudging through dense brush or competitive shooters who subject their gear to rigorous abuse, this level of durability is invaluable. The RMR Type 2 is also waterproof, allowing you to use it confidently in any weather conditions. Whether you’re caught in a sudden downpour during a hunt or competing in a muddy 3-gun match, this sight won’t let you down.
Crystal Clear Optics and Versatile Dot Size
The 3.25 MOA red dot is a standout feature of this sight. It strikes an excellent balance between speed and precision, allowing for rapid target acquisition at close range while still enabling accurate shots at extended distances. I’ve found this dot size to be incredibly versatile, whether I’m engaging steel targets in a competition or taking aim at game in the field.
The multi-coated lens deserves special mention. It provides exceptional light transmission, ensuring a bright, clear sight picture even in low-light conditions. The coating also does an admirable job of reducing glare, which can be a game-changer when shooting in bright sunlight or when facing a low sun on the horizon.
One of my favorite aspects of the RMR Type 2 is the adjustable LED. With 8 brightness settings, including 2 that are night-vision compatible, you have unprecedented control over the dot intensity. This feature allows you to dial in the perfect brightness for any lighting condition, from the dim pre-dawn hours of a morning hunt to the harsh midday sun of a summer shooting competition.
Easy Operation and Mounting Options
Trijicon has done an excellent job of keeping the RMR Type 2 user-friendly without sacrificing functionality. The sight features just two buttons – a ‘plus’ on the left side and a ‘minus’ on the right. These controls are firm enough to prevent accidental adjustments but responsive enough for easy operation, even when wearing gloves.
The sight offers both manual and automatic brightness modes. In auto mode, the RMR Type 2 adjusts to ambient light conditions, ensuring your dot is always visible without being overpowering. If you prefer more control, the manual mode allows you to set your desired brightness level. A thoughtful feature is the sight’s ability to return to auto mode after 16.5 hours, ensuring you’re always ready for action even if you forget to adjust the settings.
Mounting the RMR Type 2 is a breeze, thanks to its compatibility with existing RMR footprints. I’ve successfully mounted it on pistol slides, rifles, and even shotguns without any issues. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for hunters who might want to switch the sight between different firearms depending on the season or quarry.
The windage and elevation adjustments are precise and reliable, offering audible and tactile clicks. Each click moves the point of impact 1 MOA, allowing for fine-tuning of your zero. I’ve found that once zeroed, the RMR Type 2 holds its point of impact exceptionally well, even after thousands of rounds.
Impressive Battery Life and Practical Features
Battery life is a crucial consideration for any electronic sight, and the RMR Type 2 doesn’t disappoint. Using a single CR2032 battery, it can run for up to 4 years, depending on your brightness settings and usage patterns. This longevity means you don’t have to worry about your sight dying at a critical moment, whether you’re lining up a shot on a trophy buck or in the middle of a crucial stage in a competition.
The auto-brightness feature plays a significant role in conserving battery life, adjusting the dot intensity based on ambient light conditions. This not only extends battery life but also ensures you always have an appropriate dot brightness without manual intervention.
One practical feature that deserves mention is the battery compartment design. Trijicon includes a flat metal ‘sealing plate’ that fits between the base of the unit and the mounting location. This simple addition effectively solves the potential issue of battery contact loss due to recoil, ensuring consistent and reliable operation.
Performance in Hunting and Competition Scenarios
In the field, the RMR Type 2 truly shines. Its wide field of view and parallax-free design allow for both-eyes-open shooting, maintaining situational awareness – a crucial factor when tracking game or engaging multiple targets in competition.
For hunters, I’ve found the RMR Type 2 to be particularly effective on slug guns and muzzleloaders. The unlimited eye relief means you can mount it far forward on the barrel, promoting a heads-up shooting position that allows for better awareness of your surroundings.
In competitive shooting scenarios, the RMR Type 2’s quick target acquisition and precise dot make it a favorite among USPSA Carry Optics division shooters. The adjustable brightness comes in handy when moving between differently lit stages, allowing you to always have the optimal dot intensity for the conditions.
Is the Investment Worthwhile?
With a price tag of around $700, the Trijicon RMR Type 2 represents a significant investment. However, in the world of optics, the adage “you get what you pay for” certainly holds true. The bomb-proof construction, crystal clear glass, and reliable performance make this a sight that will serve you well for years to come.
For serious hunters and shooters who demand the utmost from their equipment, I believe the RMR Type 2 is worth every penny. It’s become an indispensable part of my gear, providing confidence in my ability to make accurate shots quickly, regardless of the conditions.
Conclusion
The Trijicon RMR Type 2 Adjustable LED 3.25 MOA Red-Dot Sight is a top-tier optic that lives up to its reputation. Its rugged construction, versatile dot size, adjustable brightness, and long battery life make it an excellent choice for both hunting and competitive shooting applications.
While the price might be steep for casual shooters, those who demand the best and rely on their equipment in critical situations will find the RMR Type 2 to be a worthy investment. Whether you’re tracking game through dense woods, competing in high-stress shooting matches, or need a reliable sight for self-defense, the RMR Type 2 is up to the task.
If you’re in the market for a compact, durable, and high-performance red dot sight, I wholeheartedly recommend giving the Trijicon RMR Type 2 a serious look. Your shooting experience – and your targets – will undoubtedly benefit from this exceptional piece of equipment.