Type 1 and Type 2 Red Dot Markers (RMRs) have been popular on firearmsfor years, providing a clear aiming solution for target practice and self-defense. Although the basic concept of a lightweight red dot sight hasn't changed, recent advancements have led to improvements in battery life, connectivity, and ease of use. In this article, we will compare and contrast the two types of RMRs, including their design features, performance, and potential drawbacks.
Type 1 RMRs
Design Characteristics
- Mounting Compatibility: Often compatible with older firearms with smaller trigger guards.
- Battery Compatibility: Usualy comes with CR123 or CR123A batteries, requiring适配器 for use with modern CR2032 and CR2 batteries.
- Weight: Typically lighter than Type 2 models.
- Ease of Use: Can often be adjusted for brightness without additional tools or modifications.
- Battery Life: Generally, between 2-5 years with proper care and use, though some users may experience battery life variations.
Performance and Applications
- Accuracy: Often reports being accurate within a group of 1" at 10 yards.
- Durability: Seems to hold up well under heavy use and extensive practice.
- Number of Applications: Commonly used for home defense, target shooting, and low-light situations.
- Cost: Relatively affordable.
Type 2 RMRs
Design Characteristics
- Mounting Compatibility: Sometimes incompatible with older firearms without proper modifications.
- Battery Compatibility: Typically comes with CR2032 or CR2 batteries, avoiding the need for适配器.
- Weight: Usually heavier than Type 1 models, due to the increased complexity and size.
- Ease of Use: More user-friendly with pre-threaded batteries and fixed brightness settings.
- Battery Life: Reported to last up to 8 years with improved battery management systems in place.
Performance and Applications
- Accuracy: Consistently reports being accurate within a group of 0.5" at 10 yards.
- Durability: Known for lasting longer than Type 1 models.
- Number of Applications: Widely used in competitive shooting, special forces, and self-defense scenarios where longevity is paramount.
- Cost: Often slightly more expensive than Type 1 models.
Comparing the Two Types, while both Type 1 and Type 2 RMRs offer practical targeting solutions, they each have unique advantages and caveats:
- Type 1: More compatible with older firearms and lighter in weight, making it a popular choice for everyday use and practice. However, it may not be the longest-lasting option and may require manual adjustments for brightness.
- Type 2: More compatibility with modern firearms and potentially longer battery life, making it ideal for competitive and professional use. However, it may be more expensive and requires more maintenance and careful handling to prevent premature battery failure.
Ultimately, the choice between a Type 1 or Type 2 RMR depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you're looking for a cost-effective option that's easy to use and maintain, a Type 1 RMR might be the right fit. On the other hand, if you demand longevity, durability, and higher performance, especially in competitive shooting or special forces applications, a Type 2 RMR may be worth the additional investment.
