The Steiner R1X Red Dot reflex sight was introduced this year at the 2017 SHOT show. Intended for use on AR/Patrol rifle platforms, its wide field of view and rugged, durable look proved to be something we had to put to the test. So we fastened this sight to one of our favorite rifles, the Christensen Arms CA-15 Recon (shown below) and headed to the range.
The first noticeable feature of the R1X is its huge FOV (Field of View). With lenses that measure 32mm (1.259”) it provides ample viewing area, and allowed us to quickly acquire targets at multiple distances. Secondly, the larger FOV provided us with a better sense of situational awareness, which can prove invaluable in the field.
The R1X features a rugged aluminum housing that is shockproof, fogproof, and boasts a waterproof rating of 10m for 120 min. The housing measures 3” in length and 2” high, with an overall weight of 19.4 ounces. The R1X is available with a standard screw mount , or available with a QD Mount.
Large selection buttons used to adjust brightness as well as toggle reticles are located on the left hand side of the optic provide easy manipulation for those wearing gloves.
Seven levels of illumination are available – Two night vision, and five daylight settings. The reticle can be changed from the single 2 MOA dot to a 4-dot stadia. When the center 2 MOA dot of the 4-dot stadia is zeroed at 50-meters, the bottom dots provide three 4.1 MOA dots calibrated for 10, 7 and 5 meters. This reticle was lightning fast for the CQB tests we performed with the R1X.
Windage and elevation adjustments are easily located, and clearly marked. Adjustments are ¼ MOA per click, and each have an adjustment range of 25 MOA.
The battery compartment on the R1X is located on the right hand side; four thumbscrews secure the watertight compartment cover. Two common CR2032 batteries power the sight. The R1X has an auto shut off feature at 13 hours, and a continuous battery life of 750 hrs.
Finally yet importantly, is to mention the Steiner Heritage Warranty that is offered with this optic. In their own words:
All Steiner riflescopes and binoculars are covered by the Steiner Heritage™ Warranty for the lifetime of the product. We will repair or replace the product at no charge to you if it becomes damaged or defective for any reason other than theft or deliberate misuse.
- No warranty card needed.
- No receipt required.
- Warranty is fully transferable to future owners of the product.
Overall, the R1X performed extremely well during our evaluation. We were pleased with the features that it provided, the wide field of view, and the extremely rugged design.