First Look: Crimson Trace HRO Red Dot Optic

A red dot sight that's built from the ground up durability and rough use.

by
posted on September 17, 2022
Crimson Trace HRO

Crimson Trace is probably best-known for its extensive line of laser sights to help shooters connect their firearms with targets. However, the company also has a complete of other optics, including red dot sights, the latest of which is the HRO (Heavy Recoil Optic), a compact but heavy-duty electronic red-dot reflex sight with a 2-MOA dot.

One of the biggest hesitations that gun owners have about adding a red dot or other electronic sight is concerns that the electronics inside the optic are not up to the wear and tear of everyday carry. However, red dot sights and similar electronic aiming devices are in common use by the military and law enforcement, and the technology to make those sights are rugged as possible has trickled down for use by the average armed citizen. Today’s optics are better-built and more reliable than ever before, and Crimson Trace takes that to the next level with the HRO.

The HRO’s outer housing is built from 6061 aerospace grade aluminum and also features an integrated universal Picatinny rail mounting system built into the optic body. The uppermost part of the optic body is designed in such a way to deflect impacts should the optic fall to the ground while attached to a firearm.

HRO Red Dot Optic Features:

  • 50,000 hour battery life
  • 2-MOA dot
  • IPX7 waterproof rating
  • Multi-coated lenses
  • Manual on/off switch
  • Crimson Trace “Shake to Wake”
  • Automatic shut-off
  • Integrated Picatinny mount on bottom of unit
  • Side loading battery compartment
  • Weighs 8.5 ounces
  • Unlimited eye relief
  • Fully co-witnesses with iron sights

The Crimson Trace Heavy Recoil Optic’s retail pricing starts at $479. For more information on this electronic reflex sight or other products and accessories offered by Crimson Trace, please visit the company's website at crimsontrace.com.

Latest

 G9 Defense 126 Grain Subsonic 9mm Ammunition
 G9 Defense 126 Grain Subsonic 9mm Ammunition

First Look: G9 Defense 126 Grain Subsonic 9mm Ammunition

Built with an external hollow point bullet for improved penetration.

Straight Talk: Looking Back

The origins of some gear and techniques may surprise you.

First Look: Wilson Combat Division 77 Project 1

The brainchild of a new "skunk works" branch of Wilson Combat.

Near to Far Marksmanship Practice

We won't get to choose the distance a lethal force encounter.

I Carry: Heritage Roscoe .38 Special Revolver in a Tulster RATH Holster

In this week's episode of "I Carry," we have a Heritage Manufacturing Roscoe revolver with a 3-inch barrel carried in a Tulster RATH AIWB holster along with a Browning Branded Tanto pocketknife.

First Look: HSGI NVG Pouch

Stow your low-light gear where it will be safe and easy to access.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Illustrated delivered to your inbox.