In fall 2016, Sightmark introduced two new Wolverine red-dot optics that are designed specifically for AR-style rifles. Shooting Illustrated covered the launch here, and the company has since then provided a test sample of its Wolverine FSR 1x28 red dot sight, which is the larger of the two models.
One of the most noticeable things about the Wolverine FSR red dot is the large cylindrical housing that juts out from the left side of the optic. This housing is the home of the Wolverine FSR's power source: a single AA battery. This is larger than the small, disk-shaped CR2032 batteries that power most red-dot optics, but the bigger battery provides the Wolverine's most standout feature (and is commonly available). The company claims a battery life of up to 1 million hours. For the less mathematically inclined out there, that's approximately 114 years.
Now, the 1 million-hour battery life is certainly a stretch for typical use. The company claims the 1 million-hour life is available on its lowest infrared setting, which is invisible to the human eye. Like many red-dot optics, the Wolverine FSR features these settings for use with night-vision-type systems. However, most shooters will be operating the sight in the brighter settings, diminishing battery life dramatically from 1 million hours.
However, mid-range battery life is nothing to laugh at. On setting 6 (the unit has 10 total power settings), the red dot is easily visible to the human eye, and the company claims a battery life of 50,000 hours of continuous use on that setting. In other words, owners who buy the Wolverine FSR can install a single AA battery, turn the optic on and then not worry about changing the battery for nearly 6 years. The highest power settings will drain the battery even further. The highest setting features a 900-hour battery life, meaning users will get barely more than 5 weeks out of one charge.
The unit itself is made from 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum that uses a rubberized outer covering to help protect the unit from external shock. The unit is rated shockproof and, according to the company, rated to withstand 800 Gs of recoil. The unit is also expected to operate in temperatures ranging from -22 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit. The optic also features an IP67 waterproof rating, which means it can withstand being submerged in 3 feet of water for 30 minutes without damage. Realistically, this means the unit won't suffer under some rain, but it isn't going to withstand Navy SEAL underwater insertions.
The Wolverine FSR comes with a Picatinny rail mount that features a riser block, which can be easily removed to lower the overall height of the optic. The unit comes with shortened screws to remount the Picatinny rail device, as well as all the tools necessary to complete the switch. The Wolverine also comes with protective rubber scope caps. The overall size of the unit is 4.4 inches in length and 2.9 inches in height and features a total weight of 12.3 ounces.
The suggested retail price on the Wolverine FSR 1-28 red dot sight is $179.99.
One of the most noticeable things about the Wolverine FSR red dot is the large cylindrical housing that juts out from the left side of the optic. This housing is the home of the Wolverine FSR's power source: a single AA battery. This is larger than the small, disk-shaped CR2032 batteries that power most red-dot optics, but the bigger battery provides the Wolverine's most standout feature (and is commonly available). The company claims a battery life of up to 1 million hours. For the less mathematically inclined out there, that's approximately 114 years.
Now, the 1 million-hour battery life is certainly a stretch for typical use. The company claims the 1 million-hour life is available on its lowest infrared setting, which is invisible to the human eye. Like many red-dot optics, the Wolverine FSR features these settings for use with night-vision-type systems. However, most shooters will be operating the sight in the brighter settings, diminishing battery life dramatically from 1 million hours.
For $12 more, shooters can get the Wolverine FSR red dot with a flat dark earth protective cover.
However, mid-range battery life is nothing to laugh at. On setting 6 (the unit has 10 total power settings), the red dot is easily visible to the human eye, and the company claims a battery life of 50,000 hours of continuous use on that setting. In other words, owners who buy the Wolverine FSR can install a single AA battery, turn the optic on and then not worry about changing the battery for nearly 6 years. The highest power settings will drain the battery even further. The highest setting features a 900-hour battery life, meaning users will get barely more than 5 weeks out of one charge.
The unit itself is made from 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum that uses a rubberized outer covering to help protect the unit from external shock. The unit is rated shockproof and, according to the company, rated to withstand 800 Gs of recoil. The unit is also expected to operate in temperatures ranging from -22 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit. The optic also features an IP67 waterproof rating, which means it can withstand being submerged in 3 feet of water for 30 minutes without damage. Realistically, this means the unit won't suffer under some rain, but it isn't going to withstand Navy SEAL underwater insertions.
The Wolverine FSR comes with a Picatinny rail mount that features a riser block, which can be easily removed to lower the overall height of the optic. The unit comes with shortened screws to remount the Picatinny rail device, as well as all the tools necessary to complete the switch. The Wolverine also comes with protective rubber scope caps. The overall size of the unit is 4.4 inches in length and 2.9 inches in height and features a total weight of 12.3 ounces.
The suggested retail price on the Wolverine FSR 1-28 red dot sight is $179.99.
