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VORTEX Defender-ST 3 MOA Micro Red Dot with DeltaPoint Pro Footprint, DFST-MRD3
Our editorial team reviews specifications, product data, and field-use information to keep pages accurate.
$299.99
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SKU: DFST-MRD3-843829133296
Overview
Built for handguns, shotguns, and offset carbine setups, this micro red dot is aimed at shooters who want a compact optic that can move between range work and demanding duty use. Its 3 MOA red dot, motion activation, and adjustable brightness are designed to support quick target acquisition and fast follow-up shots across changing light conditions. The large sight window and unlimited eye relief make it a practical choice for close- to mid-range shooting where speed and visibility matter. It is a straightforward, rugged optic for users who want a versatile sighting solution without unnecessary complexity.
Why Hunters Choose the Vortex
Large Sight
Window supports quick target acquisition
Motion Activation
Adjustable brightness help adapt the
3 Moa
Red dot offers a precise
Parallax-free Optical
Unlimited eye relief simplifies sight
Waterproof, Shockproof
Construction is built for demanding
Key Features
- 3 MOA red dot reticle for fast target acquisition
- Large sight window supports quick sight picture acquisition
- Motion activation with 10-minute auto-shutoff
- Adjustable brightness for changing light conditions
- Parallax-free optical system with unlimited eye relief
- Waterproof, shockproof 7075 aluminum construction
- DeltaPoint Pro footprint for compatible mounting
Best Used For
- Handgun shooters wanting a compact red dot for drills, range sessions, and duty carry.
- Shotgun users needing a rugged optic with a large sight window and motion activation.
- Carbine users mounting an offset optic for fast transitions and close-range aiming.
- Hunters who want a simple 1x red dot for quick target acquisition in varied light.
- Serious shooters prioritizing adjustable brightness and unlimited eye relief on a micro optic.
Specifications
| 10 Minute Auto Shutoff | Yes |
|---|---|
| Adjustment Graduation | 1 MOA |
| Battery Run Time Setting 6 | 25,000 Hours |
| Battery Type | CR2032 |
| Dot Color | Red |
| Dot Size | 3 MOA |
| Eye Relief | Unlimited |
| Fast Rack | Textured Face for Racking Handgun off any Surface |
| Footprint | DeltaPoint Pro |
| Length | 1.83" |
| Lens Coatings | Fully Multi-Coated Lenses |
| Magnification Range | 1x |
| Material | 7075 Aluminum |
| Max Elevation Adjustment | 115 MOA |
| Max Windage Adjustment | 145 MOA |
| Motion Activation | Yes |
| Optical System | Aspherical |
| Parallax Setting | Parallax Free |
| Reticle | 3 MOA Red Dot |
| Shock Shield | Polymer Insert Absorbs Everyday Impacts |
| Shockproof | Yes |
| Travel Per Rotation | 25 MOA |
| Waterproof | Yes |
| Weight | 1.48 oz. |
Pros
- Large sight window supports quick target acquisition across handgun, shotgun, and offset carbine setups.
- Motion activation and adjustable brightness help adapt the dot to changing light conditions.
- 3 MOA red dot offers a precise aiming point for fast follow-up shots.
- Parallax-free optical system with unlimited eye relief simplifies sight picture.
- Waterproof, shockproof construction is built for demanding range and duty use.
- Fast Rack textured face adds practical leverage for handgun slide manipulation.
Considerations & Trade-offs
- The 3 MOA dot is a deliberate balance for general use, but it may not suit shooters who prefer a finer aiming point for precision-focused work.
- Motion activation and auto-shutoff help manage battery use, yet they add an electronic layer that some users may prefer to keep simpler.
- The DeltaPoint Pro footprint supports compatibility with that mounting pattern, but it still requires the correct host setup and mounting hardware.
- Its compact micro-red-dot format is versatile across handguns, shotguns, and offset carbine use, but it is not a one-size-fits-all solution for every platform or optic preference.
Suggested Comparisons
- Micro red dot sights for handguns
- Red dot sights for shotguns
- Offset optic mounts for carbines
- Compact pistol optics with DeltaPoint Pro footprint
Suggested Accessories
- Red dot mounting plate
- Lens cleaning kit
- Spare CR2032 battery
- Protective optic cover
Frequently Asked Questions
What footprint does the Defender-ST use for mounting?
The product title lists a DeltaPoint Pro footprint. No other mounting compatibility details are provided in the source data.
What dot size does this red dot use?
It uses a 3 MOA red dot, as listed in the specifications.
Is the Defender-ST motion activated?
Yes. The specifications list Motion Activation: Yes.
How long does the battery last?
The listed battery run time is 25,000 hours at setting 6. Actual runtime will vary with brightness setting and use.
Is this optic suitable for handguns and shotguns?
Yes. The short and long descriptions say it is intended for handguns, shotguns, and offset use on a carbine.