In this article I will check the new Vortex Defender CCW. I start with unboxing, let you know what the footprint is, what they key features are; and then dive into how to operate this red dot.
What is inside the box
- red dot itself
- picatinny mount
- protective sleeve for the red dot
- mounting tool
- shim with 1 MOA angle
- cleaning cloth
- set of installation screws
- user manual
Footprint
Vortex Defender CCW uses the Shield RMSc footprint standard, making it compatible with large number of mounts and optics ready plates. Not modified version of it, but the full Shield RMSc footprint.
Compatibility
Thanks to the fact that Defender CCW uses the Shield RMSc footprint standard, you will be able to install it on your pistol whether it is optics ready model, or classic model:
- for classic models you will need to search for red dot mount with Shield RMSc footprint, and
- for optics ready model you will need to search for optics ready plate with Shield RMSc footprint.
This red dot can be however used also on longer guns - as long as they use picatinny base, you will be able to mount it.
Key Features of the Red Dot
Fast-Rack texturing
Designed for slide racking against any surface without damaging the optic.
Auto Shut-Off with motion
Turns off the red dot when not in use, and powers it back on as soon as movement is detected.
Reticle options
Vortex Defender CCW comes in two reticle options:
- 3 MOA red dot
- 6 MOA red dot
Standardized battery
The red dot uses CR1632 battery which will last - in full use mode without turn-off - cca 9500 hours.
Brightness settings
You can choose between 10 brightness settings. Two are for night use, 8 for day use.
Unlimited & Unconditional Lifetime Warranty
... which is something that we do not see that often.
How to use
Power on
Press the up or the down button.
Power off
Hold down button for 5 seconds
Brightness adjustment
By pressing the up or down buttons.
Button lockout mode
You can activate & deactivate a 'button lockout mode' by holding the up button by 3 seconds.
What is button lockout mode? It locks the buttons to prevent accidental setting changes.
Auto Shut-Off feature
To activate or deactivate the auto shut-off feature, hold both buttons for 3 seconds.
How do you know if you shut it off or turned it on?
- If the brighness goes from lowest to highest, you turned it on.
- If the brightness goes from highest to lowest, you turned it off.
Windage adjustment
Use the turret on the side of the red dot.
Elevation adjustment
Use the turret on the top of the red dot.