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Vortex Defender-CCW Micro Red Dot 3 MOA Red Dot
Our editorial team reviews specifications, product data, and field-use information to keep pages accurate.
$249.99
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SKU: WX2*0734001
Overview
Built for concealed carry pistols, this micro red dot is aimed at shooters who want a compact optic with a clear aiming point and a low-profile setup. The 3 MOA reticle, motion activation, and side-mounted brightness controls support fast use, while the taller window and large aspherical lens are intended to provide a more open sight picture. Its slim form is designed to reduce bulk on subcompact handguns, and the included mounting options make it adaptable across compatible platforms. For hunters and outdoorsmen who also carry for personal protection, it offers a practical optic choice without adding unnecessary size.
Why Hunters Choose the Vortex
Subcompact Concealed
Fitment for full-size pistols as
3 Moa
Red dot reticle provides a
Taller Window
Large aspherical lens offer a
Motion-activated Operation
10-minute auto-shutoff helps preserve battery
Side-mounted Brightness
Controls include a lockout feature
Key Features
- Designed for subcompact concealed carry pistols, with fitment for full-size pistols as well.
- 3 MOA red dot reticle provides a clear, sharp aiming point.
- Large, hard-coated aspherical lens offers a larger sight picture than similarly sized micro red dots.
- Motion-activated operation and 10-minute auto-shutoff help conserve battery life.
- Side-mounted brightness buttons can be locked out for controlled adjustment.
- Fits Shield RMS and RMSc footprints and includes mounting accessories in the box.
Best Used For
- Subcompact concealed-carry handgun owners needing a low-profile optic for discreet everyday carry.
- Shooters wanting a motion-activated red dot with quick readiness for defensive use.
- Users who prefer a larger sight picture on a micro-sized optic for faster target acquisition.
- Carry pistol owners looking for a slim optic that helps reduce bulk and printing under clothing.
- Full-size to micro-compact pistol users needing a versatile optic compatible with multiple handgun sizes.
Specifications
| Auto Shutoff | 10-minute auto-shutoff |
|---|---|
| Body Material | 7075-T6 aluminum |
| Brightness Control | Side-mounted buttons |
| Fits Handgun Size | Subcompact handguns |
| Fits Other Pistols | Full-size to micro-compacts |
| Fogproof | Yes |
| Footprint Compatibility | Shield RMS and RMSc footprints |
| Front Face | Fast-Rack textured front face |
| Included Accessories | 1" shim plate, Picatinny mount, rubber cover, lens cloth, custom tool, common screw mounting set |
| Length | 1.6 in |
| Lens | Large, hard-coated aspherical lens |
| Lockout | Yes |
| Motion Activated | Yes |
| Optics | Fully multi-coated |
| Reticle | 3 MOA red dot |
| Shock Protection | Polymer Shockshield |
| Shockproof | Yes |
| Warranty | Vortex VIP Warranty |
| Waterproof | Yes |
| Weight | Less than an ounce |
| Window Height | Taller window than other micro red dots |
Pros
- Designed for subcompact concealed carry pistols, with fitment for full-size pistols as well.
- 3 MOA red dot reticle provides a clear, sharp aiming point.
- Taller window and large aspherical lens offer a larger sight picture.
- Motion-activated operation with 10-minute auto-shutoff helps preserve battery life.
- Side-mounted brightness controls include a lockout feature for added control.
- Includes shim plate, Picatinny mount, mounting hardware, and lens cloth.
Considerations & Trade-offs
- Designed for subcompact concealed carry pistols, so it may be more specialized than some users need if the optic will live on a full-size handgun.
- The 3 MOA dot is a deliberate balance for quick aiming, but it is not the larger aiming reference some shooters prefer.
- Side-mounted brightness controls and lockout add control, but they also introduce more steps than a simpler always-on setup.
- The optic is very compact, which supports concealment, but the smaller form factor can make the sight picture feel less expansive than larger red dots.
Suggested Comparisons
- Subcompact handgun red dot sights
- Micro red dot optics
- Concealed carry pistol optics
- Pistol mounting accessories
Suggested Accessories
- Red dot optic mount
- Lens cleaning cloth
- Battery
- Mounting screw set
Frequently Asked Questions
What handguns is the Defender-CCW designed to fit?
It is designed for subcompact concealed-carry pistols, and the product data also says it fits full-size to micro-compact handguns. It fits Shield RMS and RMSc footprints.
What reticle does this red dot use?
It uses a 3 MOA red dot reticle.
Does the sight have motion activation or an auto-shutoff feature?
Yes. The Defender-CCW is motion activated and has a 10-minute auto-shutoff to help preserve battery life.
What mounting hardware is included?
The box includes a 1" shim plate, Picatinny mount, rubber cover, lens cloth, custom tool, and a common screw mounting set.
What durability or protection claims are stated in the product data?
The product data says the sight has a 7075-T6 aluminum body with polymer Shockshield, and it is 100% waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof.