The only challenge was deciding which specific model from their wide selection of options.
They provide a number of screw sets, which are well-labeled to indicate the models of guns they fit.
The screws are also pre-treated with thread lock.
The Vortex Defender-ST mounted on the Springfield Armory 1911 Operator AOS — a self-defense-ready combination.
All the screws in the kit use a Torx #10 driver keeping our lives simpler.
The battery compartment, which requires a CR2032 battery, is top-loading.
The battery compartment lid does require a special tool to screw/unscrew it, which is provided.
Co-witnessing the red-dot and iron sights is a crucial benefit for a defensive, duty, or competition gun. The Operator AOS sights and Vortex Defender-ST do it right.
The tool also has a handy Torx #10 driver on the opposite end.
This is something youll want to keep in the range bag.
Expected battery life is anywhere from 25,000 hours to 100,000 hours depending on brightness setting.
The 1″ width of the Vortex Defender-ST makes it a great fit on the Springfield Armory 1911 slide.
The Defender-ST is part of Vortexs Defender Series of red-dot optics.
For the 1911 Operator AOS, I think the ST is the perfect size.
Adjustments are made using the large soft-touch buttons on either side.
The Springfield 1911 Operator AOS and Vortex Defender-ST are a blend of classic style and performance with modern technical advantages.
There is good tactile feedback with each incremental change you make.
Windage adjustment maximum is 145 MOA, and max for elevation is 115 MOA.
Red-dots are by nature, parallax free with unlimited eye relief.
Simple, easy to use controls; a rugged housing; and a perfect fit into the Operator AOS slide cut.
This provides ultimate flexibility on mounting positions and shooting styles.
I weighed the Defender-ST with the AOS plate and screws and noted a total of 2.7 oz.
Just the cover plate and screws for the Operator AOS weigh 2.0 oz.
The Defender-ST has a top-loading battery compartment and comes with a tool to make the job easy.
This is a net gain of only 0.7 oz.
when the optic is installed.
A full and comprehensive user manual is also in the box.
At the range, the Defender-ST held its zero perfectly through hundreds of rounds of live fire.
Also in the box is the Vortex VIP Warranty that covers the Defender-ST for life.
Hands-On with the Vortex Defender
There are only two operating controls on the unit.
The two soft-touch buttons (one on each side) are designated with up and down arrows.
The Defender-ST uses the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro mounting footprint for excellent compatibility with a range of firearms.
I really like the feel of the buttons and the feedback they provide.
When moved, it will automatically turn the reticle back on at the same brightness level last used.
you might override this function by manually turning the optic off as described above.
To turn it back on, press and hold either the up or down button.
What if you want the dot to stay on, but you dont want the auto-shutoff feature active?
The only other controls on the Defender-ST are the adjustment turrets.
Perhaps one of my favorite specs for the Defender series of optics is the adjustment increment.
Installation of the Defender-ST is easy and well documented in the manual.
As noted, the Vortex Defender-ST footprint is identical to the DeltaPoint Pro footprint making compatibility easy.
I installed the Springfield Armory Agency Optic System (AOS) adapter plate and then the Defender-ST on that.
it’s possible for you to use 12 in-lbs.
if you have fresh thread lock on them.
Besides, aim small, miss small is still the best advice I know of.
The purpose of a red-dot optic is simple.
Put a visible marker on the target that has been calibrated to be the point of bullet impact.
An obvious one would be the optics ability to hold its zero.
After hundreds of rounds, the Defender-ST never waivered in that regard.
Another important factor for me is the ability to make brightness adjustments between shots without much effort.
The top of the aluminum housing has a soft padded patch of rubber to help absorb shocks.
This is an entry-level requirement for me.
The visibility of the iron sights of the Operator AOS was clear and perfect at all times.
Another reason why I think the Operator AOS and Vortex Defender-ST are a perfect fit.
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