June 28th, 2023
10minute read
Looking for a high-quality, yet affordable, red dot sight?
The fact that this unit has an accessible price point is just icing on the cake.
Read on to see how he tested it and how it performed.
The Aimpoint Duty RDS red dot is designed to offer law enforcement officers as well as civilians a rock-solid optic at an affordable price. Image: Michael Anscheutz
Id like to begin by introducing myself to those of you who might not be familiar with my background.
Ive been blessed with a career as a law enforcement officer, competitive shooter and gun writer.
Enter the next chapter of this wild ride.
The author, a law enforcement officer and trainer, put the Duty RDS and a5.56mm SAINT Victor riflethrough their paces at the range and on patrol. Image: Author
That included law enforcement officers, armed security officers and concealed carry handgun instructors.
This was a lot of responsibility, and I was honored to have been trusted with the role.
In addition, I also continue to teach firearms classes for law enforcement and armed citizens alike.
Built with a rugged aluminum housing, the Duty RDS is ready for extreme service. Shown on SAINT Victor 9mm Carbine. Image: Michael Anschuetz
Needless to say, I jumped at the chance.
I will spend the next bit of time expounding on this combination for you.
The housing of the optic is a pressure-forged aluminum body that is hard-anodized and is submersible to 25 meters.
Controls of the 1X Duty RDS and simple and straightforward. Note the “digital intensity buttons” for reticle adjustment. Image: Aimpoint
On the right side of the optic are flush-mount windage/elevation adjustment dials as well as a quick-access battery compartment.
A solid front/transparent rear set of flip-up lens covers are also included.
In fact, the MSRP of it is a mere $499 a deal for an Aimpoint.
While suitable for anyone with a defensive rifle, the Aimpoint is designed for duty use, meaning it will stand up to being knocked around. Image: Author
So, next I needed to determine if the optic would live up to that claim.
Mounting was easy as pie, with one screw holding the RDS onto the rifle.
Aimpoint has definitely designed their mount right in order for it to be that precise.
Even though it is a non-magnified optic, the Aimpoint Duty RDS is capable of helping you deliver rounds on target at distance. Image: Author
Admittedly, I am still old-school as the vernacular goes and use open sights on my pistols and shotguns.
However, that is possibly going to change after getting my feet wet with this combo here!
Target transitions were smooth and easy as well.
Note the quick-access battery compartment, windage/elevation adjustment knob and included flip-up lens covers. Image: Aimpoint
I could actually see the next target coming into view way before the dot got to it.
The best five-shot group I fired measured in at 34 and was with the 64-gr.
I then mounted the rifle in the patrol car and off we went.
While the author tested the Duty RDS on a SAINT chambered for the 5.56 NATO cartridge, it performs equally well on the9mm Carbine also. Image: Michael Anschuetz
The only constant in this profession is constant change.
Through it all, both proved to be quite fit for the job.
I also am impressed with it from my perspective as a competitive shooter and all-around gun guy.
I think youll be pleased that you did.
