9 Best HoloSun Red Dot Optics [Updated 2023]
In this ultimate buyer's guide, we narrowed down the 9 best Holosun red dot optics people are buying for optic ready pistols, subguns and long guns.
We have tested these sights based on their overall quality, battery life and durability, and they are absolutely impressive for the money.
Top Holosun Optics
Other Top Red Dot Sights: Best Red Dot Optics
Buy Red Dot Mounts: Best Red Dot Sight Mounts
HoloSun 510C - Best Overall
The HS510C is the best budget reflex sight for its unique looks and large field of view. It feels like something out of a Call of Duty Modern Warfare game, and this elite series optic is both battery and solar-powered to keep it operating no matter what.
Never Turns Off - The Solar failsafe technology extends the battery life longer on top of the existing 100,000 hr battery life to keep you in the fight longer without ever changing the battery
Increased Field Of View - Open reflex optic with a large window lets the shooter effortlessly acquire targets without anything obscuring the sight picture
Easier Holdover - The Large 65 MOA reticle circle helps with range estimation and serves as close-range holdover reference point
Features:
- Magnification: 1X
- Eye Relief: Unlimited
- Reticle Type: 2 MOA Red Dot + 65 MOA RING
- Construction: Titanium frame, IP67 rated
- Battery: CR2032, 50k hours
- Turret : 0.5 MOA / Click
- Length: 3.3 inches
- Weight: 4.9 oz
Holosun AEMS - Best For PDW Setup
The AEMS is Holosun's newest large window enclosed emitter red dot sight (IPX7 rated) for rifle and PCC. This is a compact and enclosed red dot sight with larger window like the Steiner R1X and Di Optical products.
Smaller Profile - Perfect for PDW type rifle setup
Lens Cover - Included both front and back see through lens cover
7075 T6 Construction - Built with materials stronger than the standard 6061 T6 aluminum
Motion Sensor - Motion sensor and solar panel come with it (CORE model comes without solar panel)
Green or Red Reticle - Pick the reticle color you like
CQB Ring Reticle - It features the same 2 MOA + 65 MOA ring reticle as other Holosun products
Features:
- Magnification: 1X
- Eye Relief: Unlimited
- Reticle Type: 2 MOA Red Dot + 65 MOA RING
- Construction: 7075 T6, Full weatherproof
- Battery: CR2032, 50k hours
- Turret : 0.5 MOA / Click
- Length: 2.2 inches
- Weight: 3.9 oz
HoloSun 512C - Best Durability
Referenced IG @Sal_gunz
Why choose the 512C - The 512C is the enclosed body design of the Holosun 510C. The improved hood design gives the optic a Leupold LCO look and also protects the optic emitter from debris and moisture from entering. It does the samething the 510C does and works for all types of long guns and subguns.
Features:
- Magnification: 1X
- Eye Relief: Unlimited
- Reticle Type: 2 MOA Red Dot + 65 MOA RING
- Construction: 7075 T6, Full weatherproof
- Battery: CR2032, 50k hours
- Turret : 0.5 MOA / Click
- Length: 3.35 inches
- Weight: 9.17 oz
Holosun 515GM - Best Bang For The Buck
Why Must Get The HS515GM - This little tank is the closest thing to an expensive Aimpoint Micro. It checked all the boxes for being a durable mil-spec red dot, and for the price point it's the best Aimpoint Micro alternative.
Motion Activated Reticle - ShakeAwake technology activates the reticle upon sensing any movement, and it turns off to save battery when sitting at rest
Mulit-Reticle - Toggle between 65 MOA ring reticle or just a red center dot based for precision aiming & fast target acquisition
Near Infinite Battery Life - 100,000 battery hours that's long enough for you to finish 4 yrs of school and it will still be on
Includes Flash Kill - The Honeycomb flash hider to eliminate lens glare so bad guys can't see you from far away
See Through Flip Covers - Just like the Aimpoint Pro, it protects the optic from dust, and no need to flip up the lens covers before engaging
Features:
- Magnification: 1X20
- Eye Relief: Unlimited
- Reticle Type: 2 MOA Red Dot + 65 MOA RING
- Construction: 7075 T6, Full weatherproof
- Battery: CR2032, 50k hours
- Turret : 0.5 MOA / Click
- Length: 2.67 inches
- Weight: 4.06 oz
HoloSun HE530G Elite - Largest FOV
Why Try The 530G - Holosun is bring the 530G to go against the Trijicon MRO. Overall its just like the MRO with new technology and it's built with Titanium(~35% stronger than 7075 T6 aluminum)
Largest Objective Lens - 1X30mm is the largest objective lens on a high end red dot sight while the MRO has 1X25mm. The large field of view gives the 530G maximum field of view by far.
See Through Flip Covers - Shooter can still engage with both see through lens covers closed in an emergency situation. It protects from dust and doesn't hinder the shooter
If you haven't decided on the Trijicon MRO yet, and you have been thinking for a quite a while for getting something with a large field of view in a compact optic package, for a PCC or a fighting rifle.
Features:
- Magnification: 1X20
- Eye Relief: Unlimited
- Reticle Type: 2 MOA Red Dot + 65 MOA RING
- Construction: 7075 T6, Full weatherproof
- Battery: CR2032, 50k hours
- Turret : 0.5 MOA / Click
- Length: 3.22 inches
- Weight: 6.56 oz
Compare Deals:
Holosun 503GU - Best Budget Option
Why pick 503GU - 503GU is a solid budget option Aimpoint Micro alternative with super long lasting battery life that doesn't quit.
Various Reticle Options - Switching between 2 MOA center dot and a 65 MOA reticle ring with a center dot for
Same Aimpoint Footprint - Sharing the same mounting footprint means all Aimpoint Micro mounting accessories work with the 503GU without buying special mounts.
Works Great For PCC - The optic retains zero perfectly on pistol caliber carbines, so use this with confidence!
If you want something stronger than this, we actually recommend the HS515 model, which is Holosun's mil-spec grade Aimpoint Micro without an expensive price tag.
Features:
- Magnification: 1X20
- Eye Relief: Unlimited
- Reticle Type: 2 MOA Red Dot + 65 MOA RING
- Construction: 6061 T6 aluminum
- Battery: CR2032, 50k hours
- Turret : 0.5 MOA / Click
- Length: 2.73 inches
- Weight: 3.74 oz
For Pistols & Shotguns
Holosun EPS Carry - Best Weatherproof
The Holosun EPS Carry is full weatherproof and it directly mounts on the optic ready handguns with the RMSc adapter plate provided in the box.
Fully Closed Emitter - Full weatherproof against any debris from entering the optic
6 Reticle Systems - 2 MOA, 6 MOA and mutli reticle system with 32 MOA ring (with solar failsafe). Sold separately
Side Battery Access - It's the same as Holosun 507K, so easy to swap the battery without sight removal
K Pattern Mounting Footprint - The RMSc adapter plate provided is needed
Features:
- Magnification: 1X
- Reticle: 2 MOA, 6 MOA or MRS
- Turret Value: 1 MOA / Click
- Window Size: 0.58" X 0.77"
- Construction: 7075 T6 aluminum IPX8 rated
- Dimension: 1.62" X 1.07" X 0.95"
- Weight: 1 oz
- Battery Life: 50,000 hours
Holosun 508T - Best Durability
Effortless Installtion - The optic uses the RMR mounting pattern, so no need to buy a special mounts
Side Battery Access - Access the battery from the side without removing the sight off the slide or re-zeroing required.
Almost Infinite Battery Life - Long lasting battery life up to 100,000 hours using a single CR2032 battery
In addition, the solar panel provides the optic with a fail-safe battery source so it will always remain on.
But there is more…
Motion Sensor Reticle - Holosun’s Shake Awake technology activates the reticle based on the last setting recall upon movement, and it turns off to save battery when at rest.
Features:
- Magnification: 1X
- Reticle: 2 MOA, 6 MOA or MRS
- Turret Value: 1 MOA / Click
- Window Size: 0.63" X 0.91"
- Construction: Titanium body
- Dimension: 1.78" X 1.15" X 1.15"
- Weight: 2 oz
- Battery Life: CR1632, 50,000 hours
Holosun 509T - Best Protected Housing
Why Pick The HE509T - While the Aimpoint ACRO P1 costs over $600, the HE509T is the best alternative that is smaller, just as durable and packed with newer technology to keep the sight working longer.
Just like the HE508T model, the 509T is a fully enclosed unit for increased durability and reliability.
Side Battery Access - Access the battery from the side without removing the sight off the slide or re-zeroing required.
Fully Enclosed Body - Fully enclosed housing design protects the reticle emitter from dust, water moisture and other nasty stuff. Keeping it protected makes the 509T superior than any of its previous open emitter models
Solar Backup - The sight's solar power will keep it working even after the battery dies after 100,000 hrs. It almost feel like infinite battery life
Please not that this optic requires very special clamp based mounting plate. If your MOS handgun isn't compatible, please buy aftermarket mounting plates from various companies
Features:
- Magnification: 1X
- Reticle: 2 MOA, 6 MOA or MRS
- Turret Value: 1 MOA / Click
- Window Size: 0.66" X 0.9"
- Construction: Titanium body, IPX67
- Dimension: 1.6" X 1.16" X 1.13"
- Weight: 1.72 oz
- Battery Life: CR1632, 50,000 hours
ACSS Model available Here
Holosun 507K X2 - Best For Sub Compact Guns
Why The HE507K - Made specifically for conceal carry users. The optic has everything the 507C has but has reduced in overall size. Sub-compact gun users will love this.
Easier Battery Access - Replace the battery right from the top without having to remove the sight or re-zero the reticle.
Super Light Weight - Weighing only 1 oz, which is about 50% lighter than the HE407C. For conceal carry people, shaving down any weight is a plus.
Still Fast Target Acquisition - The smaller window frame really doesn't make much difference in target acquisition speed. In fact, it feels just like the 507C
Built Like A Tank - Made with 7075 T6 aluminum that matches mil-spec level quality to endure rough handling in the field
Features:
- Magnification: 1X
- Reticle: 2 MOA dot, 32 MOA ring, or combined
- Turret Value: 1 MOA / Click
- Field of View: 0.58" X 0.77"
- Construction: 7075 T6 aluminum IP67 rated
- Dimension: 1.6" X 0.98" X 0.95"
- Weight: 1 oz
- Battery Life: 50,000 hours
Holosun Optics FAQ
What Makes Holosun Products Popular?
Holosun products are highly regarded for their durability and affordability. Unlike some other brands, Holosun offers high-end mil-spec optics that are uniquely designed, feature-packed, and built to last. Newer products like Holosun EPS carry, 509T, 507C ACSS and thermal scopes are just a few examples of great product innovation.
While some shooters may not be able to afford a premium sight like an $800 Aimpoint, Holosun has filled the gap by providing budget-friendly options that don't compromise on quality. Their red dot sights are constructed to withstand even the most extreme conditions, making them suitable for hunting, tactical operations, and sport shooting.
In addition to their durable construction, Holosun red dot sights offer advanced features that enhance the shooter's accuracy and performance. These features include multiple reticle options, solar-powered technology, and customizable settings that allow for precise adjustments.
Overall, Holosun's commitment to delivering high-quality optics at an affordable price point has made them a popular choice among shooters of all levels. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced marksman, Holosun red dot sights offer a reliable and accurate solution that won't break the bank.
Lens Quality
This is usually something shooters overlook when picking a red dot sight because it’s not very obvious until you get more experience with the sight.
The Holosun has some glass glare and reflection, especially in the dark environment.
Reticle Options
Some of the Holosun models allow the shooter to turn on or off some parts of the reticle giving the ability to have the ideal reticle for the target. The reason for it could be using the reticle for holdover estimate.
The 65 MOA reticle with a center 2 MOA is very similar to EOTech's 68 MOA reticle. In fact they are the same.
The user can cycle through 3 different settings:
- 2 MOA dot only for precise long range aiming
- 65 MOA ring only for close up target acquisition
- Combined works well with red dot magnifier
Beefy External Construction
Holosun optics are mostly made from lightweight aircraft-grade 6061 and some are with 7075 aerospace aluminum.
But, here is something EVEN BETTER!
Holosun has introduced its unique Titanium alloy body optics to the market for providing ultra-lightweight optics, while the Titanium material is about 35% STRONGER than 7075 T6. This means a new generation of optics manufacturing has begun!
Aftermarket Mounts
Most Holosun products are made to work with popular mounting footprints that already exist on the market.
Getting those high-quality mounts will ensure secure installation on the rifle and retain zero.
Mounts from LaRue, Scalarworks, American Defense, Midwest Industries, KDG are all great options to go with.
Packaging
Only good things to say here. Holosun provides outstanding packaging with perfect English instructions and toolkits.
Warranty
Holosun offers a limited lifetime warranty, please click here to read their policy.
Is Holosun made in China?
Yes. Holosun optics (US company) are made in China
How Reliable Is The ShakeAwake Technology?
Holosun’s power source took another innovative approach. They branded its as the Shake Awake technology.
It turns on when sensing any movement, and turns off when sitting at rest.
How Does The Solar Fail Safe Work?
The solar panel on top of the optic is another innovation by Holosun to raise the bar on red dot technology.
In addition to the 50,000 – 100,000 hours of battery life, the solar panel provides additional power source to keep the optic working even if the battery is running low.
Under day light, the solar panel works like a fiber optic.
How Long Is The Battery Life?
On average, the HoloSun series red dot sights last about 50,000 hours using just 1 CR2032 battery or 1 CR1620 battery .
Some models like HE510C, HE503GU have about 100,000 hours of battery. It definitely pushed the bar compared tp other red dot optics on the market.
What Is The Difference Between Holosun 407K and 507K
The main difference between 407K and 507K is the reticle option. 407K offers a simple 6 MOA dot best for shooters with astigmatism, and the 507K features a multiple reticle system with 2 MOA dot, 32 MOA ring, or combined.
As the content creator of badassoptic.com, My background in the firearms industry and shooting sports gives me the experience to recommend tried and true products and keep away subpar ones.
