Holosun 507C VS 507K [Side By Side Comparison]

In this article, I will compare the Holosun 507C and the Holosun 507K, two red dot sights. I will share my experiences and provide insights into what I liked and didn't like about using them at the shooting range and in everyday concealed carry situations.

To assess their durability, I deliberately subjected them to various tests, including dropping them, scraping the lens on tough surfaces, and exposing them to mud. While some of the outcomes were as expected, there were also surprising results. Through this comparison, my goal is to help you determine the best red dot sight to suit your specific needs.

Disclosure: All products have affiliate links for earning commission to support the website when you purchase

Holosun 507C VS 507k - Differences

The Holosun 507K is designed for subcompact handguns featuring the RMSc mounting footprint. The Holosun 507C is a full size micro red dot sight that features the RMR footprint for full size handguns.

Both red dot sights offer an impressive battery life of up to 50,000 hours and come equipped with Holosun's multi-reticle system. Additionally, they both support the ACSS Vulcan reticle (available separately).

One notable difference is that the Holosun 507K features a special cutout that allows for co-witnessing with a small rear sight notch, a feature not present in the 507C.

Holosun 507C VS 507K Footprint

The Holosun 507C is primarily designed for full-sized pistols and follows the RMR footprint, whereas the 507K is designed for subcompact pistols and follows the RMSc footprint. Their main distinctions are in optic size and field of view.

507C VS 507K Field Of View

The Holosun 507C indeed features a larger lens window when compared to the Holosun 507K. The speed at which you can spot the dot largely depends on your practice and the grip angle of your handgun, which influences the alignment of your line of sight with your eye.

If your main goal is to find an optic that allows you to quickly acquire and reacquire the dot after each shot, I recommend taking a look at the ACSS Vulcan reticle below, which is provided by both optics.

Reticle Options

Both optics feature Holosun's signature multiple reticle system, which features:

• 2 MOA center dot only - For precise aiming without a cluttered field of view
• 32 MOA ring only - For fast target acquisition up close and for shooters with astigmatism
• Combined - Nice to have for PCC use, but nothing to dislike either

Another option that is my favorite is the ACSS Vulcan reticle, which features a large outer 250 MOA ring to help guide the shooter's eye back to the center when shooting handguns. Both Holosun 507C X2 and Holosun 507K X2 offer ACSS models.

Weatherproof Performance?

In my testing so far, when it comes to weatherproof performance, both the Holosun 507K X2 and Holosun 507C X2 have their limitations. In everyday use, these optics undoubtedly excel, and I have no complaints in that regard.

However, when you subject them to rainy or sandy conditions, things can get a bit tricky. While they can still function, the real challenge arises if water droplets manage to infiltrate the inner part of the glass. Cleaning them under these circumstances often leaves behind frustrating fingerprint smudges that can be hard to get rid of. It's not exactly what you want when you're trying to maintain a clear sight picture.

And let's talk about the scenario where the optic takes an accidental dive into mud or wet snow – that's when things can go from bad to worse. In such cases, the LED emitter can become completely obstructed, turning your optic into a muddy mess. Cleaning it becomes a daunting task, requiring not just a tool but also a trusty Q-tip to meticulously remove the muck.

So, while these optics perform admirably under regular conditions, they do have their weather-related quirks that can be a real headache. It's essential to be aware of these limitations if you plan to use them in less-than-ideal environments.

Battery Life

Both optics are powered by a single CR1632 battery, providing more than 50,000 hours of functionality without needing a battery replacement. So far, I haven't had to replace the battery, so it hasn't been a pressing concern.

The Holosun 507C X2 has transitioned from a bottom battery loading design to a side tray design. This allows me to easily replace the battery without removing the sight or requiring re-zeroing. I personally hate having to dig for tools in the field, and this is one thing about the Holosun 507C that I didn't quite like.

Additionally, the 507C X2 model features a solar panel on top, a feature absent in the 507K model. It's not a big deal considering that both red dot sights can last a very long time, and there is just not much opportunities for the solar panel to kick on as back up power.

While having a solar panel can be convenient for outdoor use, it may not be relied upon indoors as it only functions in sufficient light, and you need to press a button if the red dot suddenly turns off. So far I have not had the solar panel power kick on after 3 years of use.

Both optics also incorporate Holosun's ShakeAwake motion sensor technology, which essentially turns off the sight when it's not in motion and reactivates it when any movement is detected. While this is a well-designed feature, it may have limited practicality for concealed carry use, as the optic is typically mounted on a person who is constantly moving.

Is The Holosun 507C Discountinued ?

The older 507C V2 has been discontinued, and the new model is the Holosun 507C X2. It has been redesigned to feature side loading battery tray, a new body finish,  and it has smaller adjustment buttons.

Takeaways

• The 507C is for full size pistol use
• The 507K is for sub compact pistol use
• The 507K has rear notch cutout for front sight co-witness if the dot disappears.
• Both red dot sights are open emitter optics that are prone to attract dirt and they are not weatherproof. However, under non rainy conditions, they are great
• Side loading battery is convenient for battery swap without sight removal