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Vortex Defender-ST Micro Red Dot 3 MOA Red Dot Tan
Our editorial team reviews specifications, product data, and field-use information to keep pages accurate.
$299.99
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SKU: WX2*0748451
Overview
Built for shooters who want a single optic that can move between handguns, shotguns, and tactical rifles, this red dot is aimed at broad, practical use rather than a single dedicated setup. It combines a 3 MOA reticle with adjustable brightness, motion activation, and a large aspherical lens to support faster target acquisition and a clear sight picture across changing light. The 7075 aluminum housing, Shockshield polymer protection, and waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction are intended to keep the optic ready in demanding conditions. With a DeltaPoint Pro footprint, plus a Picatinny mount and Glock MOS adapter plate included, it offers flexible mounting for a wide range of platforms.
Why Hunters Choose the Vortex
Pistols, Shotguns,
Tactical rifles across multiple setups
Large Aspherical
Lens provides a distortion-free sight
Motion Activation
Helps the optic be ready
Adjustable Brightness
Supports use in varying lighting
7075 Aluminum
Shockshield polymer adds impact protection
Key Features
- 3 MOA red dot reticle with manual adjustable brightness
- Large aspherical lens for a distortion-free sight picture
- Motion-activated operation for instant readiness
- 7075 aluminum housing with polymer Shockshield impact protection
- 100% waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction
- Fits DeltaPoint Pro footprint; includes Picatinny mount and Glock MOS adapter plate
- 25,000-hour battery life with 10-minute auto shut-off
Best Used For
- Shooters wanting one red dot that can move between pistols, shotguns, and tactical rifles.
- EDC handgun users who want motion-activated aiming and adjustable brightness for fast sight acquisition.
- Carbine owners mounting a primary optic or pairing it with an LPVO on the same rifle.
- Hunters and field users needing a large sight window and waterproof, fogproof, shockproof construction.
- Glock MOS and DeltaPoint Pro footprint users seeking broad mounting compatibility.
Specifications
| Auto Shut Off | 10-minute auto shut-off |
|---|---|
| Battery Life | 25,000-hour battery life |
| Battery Type | CR2032 |
| Brightness Adjustment | Manual adjustable brightness |
| Color | Tan |
| Compatible Platforms | Pistols, shotguns and tactical rifles |
| Fogproof | 100% fogproof |
| Footprint | DeltaPoint Pro footprint |
| Housing Material | 7075 aluminum |
| Included Mounts | Picatinny mount and Glock MOS adapter plate |
| Lens | Large aspherical lens |
| Motion Activation | Yes |
| Optic Type | Micro Red Dot |
| Package Contents | Picatinny mount, Glock MOS adapter plate, rubber cover, lens cloth, CR2032 battery, custom tool, common mounting screw sets |
| Reticle | 3 MOA red dot reticle |
| Shock Protection | Polymer Shockshield |
| Shockproof | 100% shockproof |
| Sight Window | Large sight window |
| Waterproof | 100% waterproof |
Pros
- Designed for pistols, shotguns, and tactical rifles across multiple setups.
- Large aspherical lens provides a distortion-free sight picture.
- Motion activation helps the optic be ready in an instant.
- Adjustable brightness supports use in varying lighting conditions.
- 7075 aluminum housing with Shockshield polymer adds impact protection.
- Includes Picatinny mount and Glock MOS adapter plate for broad compatibility.
Considerations & Trade-offs
- The 3 MOA dot is a practical choice for general-purpose use, but it is not the smallest aiming point for shooters who prefer a finer dot for precision work.
- Its broad compatibility comes with a footprint and adapter requirement, so fit depends on the host platform and the included mounting hardware.
- The optic includes motion activation and a 10-minute auto shut-off, which helps battery management but means it is not intended to stay continuously active.
- The large sight window supports fast target acquisition, but the larger viewing area can be a different feel than a more compact micro red dot.
Suggested Comparisons
- Red dot pistol optic
- Micro red dot sight
- Shotgun optic
- Carbine optic
Suggested Accessories
- Lens cleaning kit
- Replacement battery
- Picatinny rail mount
- Optic mounting plate
Frequently Asked Questions
What firearms is the Defender-ST intended to fit and function with?
According to the product description, it is designed to work with pistols, shotguns, and tactical rifles. It is also described as fitting everything from EDC handguns to shotguns, as a primary optic on a carbine, or piggybacked on an AR's LPVO.
What mounting footprint does this optic use?
It uses the DeltaPoint Pro footprint. The package also includes a Picatinny mount and a Glock MOS adapter plate.
Does the Defender-ST have motion activation?
Yes. The description says it has motion activation, so it is designed to be ready to go in an instant.
What reticle and brightness control does it offer?
It has a 3 MOA red dot reticle with manual adjustable brightness.
What weather or durability features are listed?
The product is described as 100% waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. It also has a 7075 aluminum housing with a polymer Shockshield that absorbs impact.