Holosun 507C X2 Review [5 Years Update]

In this Holosun 507C X2 review guide let's take a look at this fantastic micro red dot sight after almost 5 years of use. I have purchased this optic to review on both handguns and rifles.

Over the past 10 years, I've also tested numerous red dot sights, and I carry concealed daily. Among them, the Holosun 507C impressively rivals the Trijicon RMR.

Does it meet the industry standard?

Let's check it out

Check out other newer Holosun optics here

Holosun 507C X2 Review

• Window Size: 0.63x0.91"
• Material: 7075 T6 aluminum
• Reticle: 2 MOA dot size + 32 MOA Ring
• Battery: CR1632
• Battery Life: 50,000 hours (Industry standard)
• Brightness Setting: 10 DL&2 NV
• Adjustment: 1 MOA / Click
• Weight: 1.5 oz

What we liked

• Rock solid construction
• Side battery access without sight removal
• Reticle brightness lockout mode to prevent inadvertent button press
• 32 MOA ring for target range estimation & shotgun applications
• Uses the same RMR mounting footprint

What we disliked

• ShakeAwake's battery saving feature may not be so practical for conceal carry user who is constantly moving
• Small adjustment buttons for users with big hands
• Turret tool required to adjust MOA in the field. Can't use shell casing or a flat head screw driver
• Not weatherproof if using in sandy, rainy or snowy environments

Best Uses

• Conceal carry users
• Optic ready pistols with RMR footprint
• Subguns & shotguns
• Offset carbine red dot
• Anyone looking for a Trijicon RMR alternative

Verdict

The Holosun 507C X2 has gained popularity comparable to the Trijicon RMR, and it offers an affordable option for those new to firearm optics who are ready to spend big money on a RMR. I like that it's rugged for both concealed carry and range use. The side loading battery tray makes swapping battery very easy, and the optic is compatible with the RMR footprint.

The Holosun 507C, compatible with rifles, handguns, and shotguns, is highly desirable among micro red dot buyers.

Packaging

You get:

• Holosun 507C X2
• Battery
• Manual
• Lens cloth
• Battery compartment tray tool (Don't throw this away)

Holosun 507C X2 Core Features

Window Size

The window size is comparable to that of the Trijicon RMR, with a slightly larger area near the top of the lens frame. It's just a couple of millimeters taller, which aids pistol shooters in tracking the reticle more effectively within the lens. When it comes to the width of the window, it feels the same as the Trijicon RMR.

Lens Tint

I've noticed that my Holosun 507C X2 has a slight bluish lens tint, but it doesn't significantly hinder my ability to see clearly through the lens, whether I'm indoors or under the sun.

Thanks to the anti-reflection multi-coating layers, I find the lens remains scratch-proof during regular use. for users with astigmatism. The 32 MOA ring is actually a good aiming reticle without the starburst typically associated with a single center dot reticle.

You gonna have to try it yourself.

It's important for me to remember that astigmatism can vary from person to person, and the effectiveness of an optic optimized for astigmatism really depends on my own vision as an individual shooter.

Build Quality

I immediately noticed how amazing the Holosun 507C X2 looks with its black anodized finish when I first got it. It feels incredibly sturdy right from the start.

The way every part is crafted, from how it's mounted to each edge, screams top-quality. It's so well-made, you'd think it's one of those high-end optics that cost around $600 or more.

There's the Holosun logo on the side, laser-etched and all. It's interesting to see how people react to it. While some really like it, I've seen others online who aren't fans. They either scratch it off or cover it with whiteout.

The base construction and the lens frame of the Holosun 507C X2 feel noticeably beefier and thicker than those of the Trijicon RMR, which enhances its overall durability.

While the 507C is robust (aluminum housing, IP67 water resistance), it’s not indestructible like a Trijicon RMR. Avoid over-tightening screws or subjecting it to extreme abuse, as the housing or lens could fail under excessive stress.

IP67 rating allows temporary immersion (1 meter for 30 minutes), but prolonged exposure to water—especially saltwater, which can damaged seals.

The 507C is water-resistant, but it's still an open emitter optic, and maybe some users think it's fully submersible or waterproof beyond its actual rating, leading to damage if exposed to water beyond its capabilities. But if you don't find yourself near water, then this isn't something to worry about too much.

Additionally, the lens hood is considerably longer compared to the RMR.

Yes it's recoil proof as we tested on a FNX 45 Tactical and a 12GA Benelli M4 under normal use.

For more extreme testing, we recommend you check out this video:

Reticle

The 507C X2 uses a 2 MOA center dot by default, and it has the option to use:

• 2 MOA dot ONLY
• 2 MOA dot + 32 MOA ring
• 32 MOA ring ONLY

To cycle through all the options, just hold the "-" button for 3 secs.

Make sure it's NOT in the lockout mode

The 2 MOA dot in the reticle is just like what you see in other optics. It's perfect for precise shooting, covering a circle about 2 inches wide at 100 yards.

Now, the 32 MOA ring around it is super handy. It lets me estimate the size of targets at different distances without needing any magnifier. Plus, it catches my eye faster.

After 3 years of use, I start to notice that the 32 MOA ring is actually much easier to see with astigmatism than looking at a single dot. This works for close range shooting, but not for long distance.

Though multiple brightness settings help reduce the "starburst" effect for those with astigmatism, the reticle may still appear blurry or distorted depending on the individual’s eyes. Experimenting with brightness and reticle styles (e.g., circle-dot vs. dot-only) is the way to go but there’s no universal fix.

ShakeAWake

The 507C’s "Shake Awake" feature conserves battery, but only if you store the optic motionless for long periods (e.g., in a safe), manually turn it off to prevent accidental battery drain.

If you carry this optic everywhere you go, then it's pretty much on the entire time. Also just remember that it will be on when traveling in a gun case in the vehicle.

Night Vision Mode

The two NV modes are designed for ultra-low-light use, even without night vision devices.

In pitch-black environments, these settings can prevent the reticle from overwhelming your natural night vision. Don’t ignore them—they’re handy for dark-room home defense scenarios.

Brightness Lock Out Mode

I've found that the reticle brightness lockout mode is something people who carry concealed really appreciate. It stops any accidental button presses when the optic is under clothes, preventing the reticle from getting too bright or too dim without meaning to.

There are 12 brightness settings on this optic - 10 for daylight and 2 for night vision. Setting the Super LED brightness is a breeze. Just pick the brightness you want and hold down the "+" button for three seconds. It'll save and lock your setting, flashing once to let you know it's done. Super easy!

The 507C’s auto-adjust mode works well in most conditions, but it can struggle with backlighting or rapidly changing environments (e.g., moving from shadows to direct sunlight).

Manual adjustment might still be necessary for optimal performance.

Elevation & Windage Adjustments

The elevation and windage adjustments on my Holosun 507C X2 are pretty much like what I'd find on other red dot sights. Each click changes the aim by 1 MOA, and it's really satisfying to feel each click. You've got a total range of about +/- 50 clicks for adjustments.

One thing that's a bit annoying is that I need a really small flathead screwdriver to make these adjustments every time. For folks who like using something simple like an empty shell casing to turn the turret, this might be a bit of a letdown. You'll need to carry a tool in your range bag for zeroing.

Luckily, the tool that comes in the box with the Holosun 507C X2 works well for this.

More info on zeroing a red dot, check out this guide

Battery Compartment

The best design approach that other open reflex red dots are considering is accessing the battery from the side rather than the bottom.

Just unscrew, pull the tray out, and replace the battery.

Sight removal for battery placement is no longer required. This saves time re-zeroing the sight and save effort looking for tools.

Be Cautious: The screw is very small. Don't lose it!

Solar Failsafe Works Like A Fiber Optic

I recently tried out the Solar Failsafe technology, and it's pretty awesome how it makes the battery last longer. This means I don't have to worry about changing batteries often.

Here's what I found when I tested the sight under direct sunlight, and without a battery:

• The sight works kind of like one with a fiber optic system. But, if something blocks the light from hitting the solar panel, the reticle vanishes.
• One downside is that in dark places, the sight just shuts off. It doesn't turn back on by itself when light comes back. I have to press the buttons to get it working again.

There's also this cool feature where the reticle turns on by itself if it detects motion. It's great for saving battery when the sight isn't being used. But, it might not be as handy for a concealed carry pistol that's always moving around.

Same RMR Mounting Footprint

The 507C uses the Trijicon RMR footprint, but some mounts or plates may require slight modifications due to differences in recoil lugs or screw lengths. Always verify compatibility with your specific firearm or mounting system.

See more offset mounts like this here

The Holosun 507C X2 uses the same mounting footprint as the Trijicon RMR.

Users have the flexibility to mount it on compatible handgun slides or aftermarket mounts for offset applications.

However, if the the handgun slide is cut specifically for an optic, the 507C X2 might not fit due to the cut and vice versa.

FAQ

Holosun 507C X2 Warranty Policy

Holosun provides a limited lifetime warranty for the 507C X2. Their customer service is known for being fast and helpful. If an attempt to repair an issue doesn't work, they offer a replacement unit.

It's important to note that this warranty is applicable only to the initial purchaser and cannot be transferred to another person. The specific mechanism by which they determine this is not clear.

Under this warranty, the external components have a lifetime warranty, while the optics are covered for five years, and the light part is covered for three years.

What is the Difference Between the HS507 V2 and the X2?

The Holosun 507 V2 and X2 versions are entirely distinct. In fact, the V2 version has been discontinued.

The Holosun 507C X2 version has introduced new changes, such as transitioning from the bottom battery loading compartment to a side tray design. Additionally, the brightness adjustment buttons have been made smaller.

One notable and positive upgrade is the reticle brightness lock mode, which is particularly beneficial for conceal carry users. It helps prevent accidental adjustments when the optic is tucked away, rubbing against tight clothing, or placed in a holster.

Despite these changes, both versions still feature the same RMR footprint, and the core functionality of the optic remains unchanged.

Can You Deactivate The Solar Cell?

Yes, you can deactivate the solar cell by entering manual mode. To do this, press and hold the "+" button for four seconds. When the sight blinks, you'll know you're in Manual Mode.

While the solar failsafe extends battery life, the 507C cannot run solely on solar power. It requires a CR1632 battery, and the solar feature merely supplements it in bright conditions. Neglecting battery replacement will eventually leave you in the dark.