Red dot sights have become essential for many shooters looking to improve accuracy and target acquisition. Two popular options are the Burris FastFire III and the Trijicon RMR. These compact reflex sights offer different features and benefits for various shooting applications.
The Burris FastFire III is known for its affordability and ease of use. It comes in 3 MOA and 8 MOA dot sizes, making it versatile for different shooting styles. On the other hand, the Trijicon RMR has built a reputation for its durability and rugged design. Its unique housing shape helps absorb impacts and protect the lens.
Both sights provide unlimited eye relief and 1x magnification, but the Trijicon RMR typically offers better battery life and a slightly smaller 3.25 MOA dot size. The choice between these two red dot sights often comes down to budget, intended use, and personal preferences in terms of features and construction.
Key Takeaways
- The FastFire III offers good value and versatility with multiple dot size options
- Trijicon RMR excels in durability and is favored for harsh conditions
- Both sights enhance target acquisition, but differ in battery life and price point
Overview of Burris FastFire III
The Burris FastFire III is a compact red dot sight designed for quick target acquisition. It’s popular among shooters for its lightweight design and versatility.
This sight offers a bright red dot for fast aiming. It comes in two dot size options: 3 MOA and 8 MOA.
The FastFire III features:
- 1x magnification
- Unlimited eye relief
- Waterproof construction
- Battery-powered operation
Its small size makes it suitable for various firearms. Users can mount it on pistols, rifles, and shotguns.
The sight’s durability is noteworthy. It can withstand recoil from powerful firearms. However, it may not be as tough as some competitors.
Burris designed the FastFire III for easy use. It has automatic brightness adjustment. This helps the dot remain visible in different lighting conditions.
The sight’s battery life is decent, though not exceptional. Users should check it regularly to ensure proper function.
Overall, the Burris FastFire III offers a good balance of features and affordability. It’s a solid choice for shooters seeking a reliable red dot sight.
Overview of Trijicon RMR
The Trijicon RMR (Ruggedized Miniature Reflex) is a popular red dot sight known for its durability and precision. It features a compact design that makes it suitable for various firearms, including handguns and rifles.
One of the RMR’s standout features is its unique patented housing shape. This design helps absorb impact and diverts stress away from the lens, enhancing the sight’s overall durability.
The RMR is constructed from tough aluminum with an anodized coating. This combination makes it highly resistant to damage and wear, even in harsh conditions.
For power, the Trijicon RMR uses a CR 2032 battery. It offers 11 brightness settings, allowing users to adjust the red dot intensity based on lighting conditions.
Key features of the Trijicon RMR include:
- Rugged construction
- Compact size
- Multiple brightness settings
- Easy-to-use controls
- Versatile mounting options
The RMR is designed for quick target acquisition and improved accuracy. Its clear glass and bright reticle help shooters aim precisely in various situations.
While the Trijicon RMR comes at a higher price point, many users find its durability and performance justify the cost. It’s a popular choice for both civilian and professional use.
Comparative Analysis
The Burris Fastfire III and Trijicon RMR offer distinct features in optics, build quality, size, power management, mounting, adjustability, and pricing. These factors significantly impact their performance and user experience.
Optical Clarity and Reticle
Both sights provide clear optics, but differences exist. The Trijicon RMR offers a 3.25 MOA dot, while the Burris Fastfire III comes in 3 MOA and 8 MOA options. This variety allows shooters to choose based on their needs.
The RMR’s dot appears crisper in most lighting conditions. Its glass has a slight blue tint, which can enhance contrast in some scenarios. The Fastfire III’s dot is also bright, but may appear less defined in very bright light.
Both sights offer unlimited eye relief, making them versatile for different firearms and shooting positions.
Durability and Construction
The Trijicon RMR stands out in durability. Its unique housing shape absorbs impact and diverts stress from the lens. Made from tough aluminum with an anodized coating, it’s built to withstand harsh conditions.
The Fastfire III, while durable, doesn’t match the RMR’s ruggedness. It uses a lightweight aluminum construction that balances durability and weight.
Both sights are waterproof, but the RMR is rated for greater depths. This makes it more suitable for extreme environments or duty use.
Size and Weight
Size and weight differences are notable between these sights. The Burris Fastfire III is slightly larger, measuring about 1.9 x 1.0 x 1.0 inches. It weighs approximately 0.9 ounces.
The Trijicon RMR is more compact, with dimensions around 1.8 x 1.1 x 1.0 inches. It’s slightly heavier at 1.2 ounces due to its robust construction.
These differences affect handling and balance on firearms. The Fastfire III may be preferable for those prioritizing a lighter setup, while the RMR suits those needing maximum durability.
Battery Life and Power Management
Battery life is a crucial factor for red dot sights. The Trijicon RMR typically offers longer battery life, with some models lasting up to 4 years of continuous use.
The Burris Fastfire III has a shorter battery life, usually lasting several months to a year depending on brightness settings. It features an auto-off function to conserve power when not in use.
Both sights use easily available batteries. The RMR uses a CR2032, while the Fastfire III uses a CR1632. The RMR’s battery is top-loaded, allowing for easy changes without removing the sight.
Mounting Options
Both sights offer versatile mounting options. The Trijicon RMR is compatible with a wide range of firearms and mounting plates. Its footprint has become a standard, with many guns pre-cut for RMR mounting.
The Burris Fastfire III also offers good compatibility. It comes with a Picatinny mount and can be adapted to various firearms. However, it may require additional plates or adapters for some setups.
Both can be mounted on pistols, rifles, and shotguns. The RMR’s wider adoption means more direct mounting options are available.
Ease of Use and Adjustments
Both sights are designed for quick target acquisition. The Fastfire III features a top-loaded battery compartment and external controls for easy adjustments.
The RMR’s controls are more protected, reducing accidental changes but making adjustments slightly less convenient. Its brightness can be adjusted manually or set to auto-adjust based on ambient light.
Both sights offer windage and elevation adjustments. The Fastfire III’s adjustments are tool-less, while the RMR requires a tool. This makes the Fastfire III more convenient for on-the-fly changes.
Price Comparison
Price is a significant factor in the comparison. The Trijicon RMR is generally more expensive, reflecting its durability and military/law enforcement pedigree.
The Burris Fastfire III is more budget-friendly, offering good performance at a lower price point. It’s often chosen by recreational shooters and those new to red dot sights.
The price difference can be substantial, sometimes hundreds of dollars. Buyers must weigh features against budget constraints when deciding between these options.
Field Performance
The Burris FastFire III and Trijicon RMR both excel in field performance. They offer quick target acquisition and improved accuracy for shooters.
The FastFire III is known for its speed and accuracy. Its lightweight design makes it easy to handle in the field. The bright red dot helps shooters find their target quickly.
Trijicon’s RMR stands out for its durability. Its unique housing shape absorbs impact and protects the lens. This makes it ideal for rugged outdoor use.
Both sights adjust well to different lighting conditions. This feature ensures optimal performance from dawn to dusk.
The FastFire III is slightly larger than the RMR. Some shooters find this makes it easier to use, especially in high-stress situations.
The RMR’s compact size allows for better concealment. This can be an advantage for hunters or tactical users who need to stay hidden.
Battery life is an important factor in field performance. The RMR typically offers longer battery life, reducing the need for frequent changes.
Both sights maintain zero well, even after repeated use. This consistency is crucial for accurate shooting over time.
Professional Usage
The Trijicon RMR and Burris FastFire III are both popular choices for professional use. Law enforcement and military personnel often rely on these red dot sights for their duty weapons.
The Trijicon RMR is known for its durability, making it a top pick for high-stress situations. Its rugged construction can withstand harsh conditions and heavy recoil.
The Burris FastFire III offers a more budget-friendly option for professional users. It provides reliable performance at a lower price point, making it attractive for departments with tighter budgets.
Both sights feature:
- 1x magnification
- Unlimited eye relief
- Compact size
The RMR’s battery life typically exceeds that of the FastFire III, which can be crucial during extended operations. However, the FastFire III’s larger viewing window may provide faster target acquisition for some users.
Professional shooters often appreciate the RMR’s adjustable brightness settings, allowing for precise customization in various lighting conditions. The FastFire III’s auto-brightness feature can be convenient but may not offer the same level of control.
Ultimately, the choice between these two sights for professional use often comes down to specific needs, budget constraints, and personal preference.
User Reviews and Ratings
Both the Burris Fastfire III and Trijicon RMR have garnered many reviews from users. These reviews offer real-world insights into their performance and reliability.
The Burris Fastfire III receives praise for its affordability and ease of use. Many users appreciate its lightweight design and clear optics. Some report it holds zero well, even after repeated use.
On the other hand, the Trijicon RMR often gets high marks for its durability and rugged construction. Users frequently mention its ability to withstand harsh conditions and heavy recoil.
Both sights have their fans and critics. Some users prefer the Fastfire III for its value, while others choose the RMR for its proven track record in demanding situations.
Here’s a quick comparison of user ratings:
| Feature | Burris Fastfire III | Trijicon RMR |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Good | Excellent |
| Ease of Use | Excellent | Very Good |
| Value | Very Good | Good |
| Optics Quality | Good | Excellent |
These ratings reflect general user sentiments. Individual experiences may vary based on specific needs and preferences.
Warranty and Customer Service
Burris and Trijicon offer different warranty and customer service options for their red dot sights.
Burris provides a lifetime warranty for the FastFire III. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. It transfers to future owners automatically.
Trijicon backs the RMR with a 5-year warranty from the date of manufacture. This covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.
For customer service, Burris can be reached by phone at 1-888-440-0244. They also accept mail at their Colorado office.
Trijicon offers phone and email support for the RMR. Their technical experts can help with product questions and issues.
Both companies aim to provide quick turnaround times for warranty repairs. They typically cover shipping costs for warranty work.
When choosing between these sights, consider the warranty length and service options. A longer warranty may offer more peace of mind for some buyers.
Conclusion
The Burris Fastfire III and Trijicon RMR are both quality red dot sights with their own strengths. The Fastfire III stands out for its lightweight design and bright red dot. It’s a good choice for shooters who prioritize speed and accuracy.
The Trijicon RMR, on the other hand, excels in durability. Its unique housing shape absorbs impact and protects the lens. This makes it an excellent option for those who need a rugged sight that can withstand harsh conditions.
Both sights offer unlimited eye relief and 1x magnification. The Fastfire III comes in 3 MOA and 8 MOA versions, while the RMR has a 3.25 MOA dot.
Price is another factor to consider. The Fastfire III is generally more affordable, making it attractive for budget-conscious buyers.
Ultimately, the choice between these two sights depends on individual needs and preferences. Shooters should consider factors like intended use, budget, and desired features when making their decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Burris FastFire III and Trijicon RMR are popular red dot sights with distinct features. Users often compare their specs, mounting options, durability, and performance.
What are the main differences in specifications between Burris FastFire III and Trijicon RMR?
The Burris FastFire III offers 3 and 8 MOA dot sizes, while the Trijicon RMR has a 3.25 MOA dot. Both sights have 1x magnification and unlimited eye relief.
The FastFire III is lighter and more compact than the RMR. It uses a single CR1632 battery, while the RMR uses a CR2032 battery.
Can the Burris FastFire III be mounted on a slide cut for a Trijicon RMR?
The Burris FastFire III cannot be directly mounted on a slide cut for a Trijicon RMR without an adapter plate. The two sights have different footprints and mounting patterns.
Some manufacturers offer adapter plates to allow mounting the FastFire III on RMR-cut slides. These plates bridge the gap between the different mounting systems.
What are the pros and cons of choosing Burris FastFire III over the Trijicon RMR?
The Burris FastFire III is generally more affordable than the Trijicon RMR. It’s also lighter and more compact, making it a good choice for concealed carry.
The FastFire III offers quick target acquisition and is easy to use. However, it may not be as durable as the RMR in extreme conditions.
Are there other red dot sights that share the same footprint as the Trijicon RMR?
Several red dot sights share the Trijicon RMR footprint. These include the Holosun 507C and 508T, and the Swampfox Kingslayer.
Using sights with the same footprint allows for easier mounting on RMR-cut slides without adapters.
How does the durability of the Burris FastFire III compare to the Trijicon RMR in harsh conditions?
The Trijicon RMR is known for its exceptional durability. Its unique housing shape absorbs impact and diverts stress from the lens.
The FastFire III is tough for its size but may not match the RMR’s durability in extreme conditions. It’s still suitable for most shooting scenarios.
What are users saying about the performance of Burris FastFire III versus Trijicon RMR based on Reddit reviews?
Reddit users often praise the Trijicon RMR for its durability and reliability. Many consider it the gold standard for pistol-mounted red dots.
The Burris FastFire III receives positive feedback for its value and performance. Users appreciate its lightweight design and clear sight picture.