Vortex Optics Defender-XL Micro Waterproof 5 MOA Red Dot Sight - DFXL-MRD5
Regular price
$399.00
Sale
Vortex Optics Defender-XL Micro Waterproof 5 MOA Red Dot Sight - DFXL-MRD5
Other red dots are made for competition. The Defender-XL is built to win. Target to target. Stage to stage. Designed for toughness, speed, and accuracy, it withstands unexpected drops and the rigors of dynamic shooting. The ultra-wide sight window enhances field of view for quicker target acquisition, faster follow-up shots, and greater flexibility in unconventional shooting positions—all positioning you to dominate every round. Red Dot of the Year!
Features
- Window Size: 25.5mm W x 23.3mm H
- Large Hard Coated Aspherical Lens: Large Distortion Free Sight Picture
- Motion Activation With 10 minute Auto-Shutoff: Automatically activates with motion while 10 minute auto-shutoff saves battery life
- ShockShield: Polymer insert absorbs shock to the 7075 aluminum body protecting it for everyday abuse
- Fast-Rack Texturing: Aggressive texturing on face of optic for racking slide off any surface
- Top Mount Battery: Easy battery change without having to rezero your optic
- 10 Daylight Bright Brightness Settings: 10 Daylight Bright Brightness Settings
- Parallax Free: All red dot and holographic sights will exhibit some small amount of parallax. Matching current industry practice, this small amount would be considered "parallax free" and will make a negligible difference in performance.
- Unlimited Eye Relief: Non-critical eye relief for rapid target acquisition
- Night-Vision Compatibility: The lowest 2 settings are night-vision compatible.
- Waterproof: O-ring seals prevent moisture, dust and debris from penetrating for reliable performance in all environments.
- Fogproof: Designed to withstand a wide range of temperatures.
- Low-Glare Matte Black Anodized: Corrosion and wear resistant anodization provides low-glare matte surface.
- Single-Piece Chassis: Compact and lightweight.
Specifications
| Magnification | 1x |
|---|---|
| Reticle | 5 MOA Dot |
| Dot Color | Bright Red |
| Mounting Footprint | DeltaPoint Pro |
| Mount Type | Picatinny |
| Battery Runtime | 25,000 hours |
| Eye Relief | Unlimited |
| Parallax | Parallax Free |
| Adjustment Graduation | 1 MOA |
| Max Elevation Adjustment | 120 MOA |
| Max Windage Adjustment | 115 MOA |
| Length | 2.03 inches |
| Weight | 1.93 oz |
What our Experts Think
- Flagship compact optical performance – UHD optical system with APO lenses delivers exceptional sharpness, color fidelity, and edge-to-edge clarity in a compact size
- Wide, immersive field of view – ~472 ft @ 1000 yds provides excellent situational awareness, making scanning and tracking effortless
- Perfect balance of portability & power – 8x32 configuration keeps weight low (~21.9 oz) while maintaining strong detail and usability for all-day carry
- Impressive low-light performance (for size) – XR™ Plus coatings maximize light transmission, delivering bright images even in challenging lighting
- Premium build quality – Magnesium chassis with rubber armor ensures shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof durability in harsh environments
- Highly ergonomic design – Open-bridge construction, smooth center focus, and locking diopter provide comfortable, precise handling
- Tripod adaptable versatility – Can be mounted for extended glassing when maximum stability is needed
- Complete premium bundle – Includes GlassPak Pro harness and accessories for ready-to-use field performance
- Trade-off: premium price tier – Positioned as a high-end optic, but justified by top-tier glass and build quality
Q&A
Q: What is the Viper PST Gen II 1‑6x24 designed for?
A: A versatile LPVO (Low Power Variable Optic) ideal for tactical shooting, competition, and close-to-mid range engagements.
Q: What makes the 1–6x magnification useful?
A: True 1x enables fast, red-dot-like targeting, while 6x magnification allows for precise shots at extended distances.
Q: Is this a First or Second Focal Plane scope?
A: It is a Second Focal Plane (SFP) scope, meaning the reticle remains the same size and is optimized for use at a specific magnification.
Q: What reticle options are available?
A: Common options include VMR-2 (MOA or MRAD) reticles, designed for fast target acquisition and accurate holdovers.
Q: Is the reticle illuminated?
A: Yes, it features daylight-bright illumination with multiple intensity settings, ideal for all lighting conditions.
Q: How is the optical performance?
A: Equipped with XD glass and fully multi-coated lenses, delivering clear, bright images with excellent contrast.
Q: What turret system does it use?
A: Features low-profile capped turrets with precise, repeatable adjustments for reliability in the field.
Maintenance Tips
- Clean lenses with care: Use a microfiber cloth and lens-safe cleaner to preserve fully multi-coated optics and maintain sharp, high-contrast images.
- Keep turrets debris-free: Regularly wipe exposed tactical turrets to ensure smooth 0.1 MRAD adjustments and reliable tracking.
- Check zero-stop (RevStop™): Periodically verify zero return for consistent long-range accuracy and repeatability.
- Inspect mount & 34mm tube fit: Ensure rings are properly torqued to prevent shift and maintain zero under recoil.
- Maintain parallax & focus controls: Keep side parallax (15 yards–∞) and fast-focus eyepiece clean for precise targeting.
- Use throw lever correctly: Keep it secure and clean for quick, smooth magnification changes from 5x–25x.
- Protect lenses & coatings: Avoid touching glass—ArmorTek coatings resist scratches but still require careful handling.
- Dry after exposure: Even though waterproof, fogproof, and nitrogen-purged, wipe down after rain or dust.
- Store with accessories: Use included lens covers and sunshade to protect the 56mm objective from damage.
- Avoid impacts: Rugged construction is shock-resistant, but minimizing drops preserves internal precision.