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Holosun AEMS Red Dot Review

When it comes to red dot sights, the Holosun AEMS (Advanced Enclosed Micro Sight) has made quite an impression in the market.
As someone who has extensively tested various optics, I was eager to get my hands on this innovative sight and see if it lives up to the hype. Here’s my comprehensive review of the Holosun AEMS, covering its features, performance, and overall value.
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Unboxing and First Impressions

The Holosun AEMS arrives in a robust, well-designed box that immediately gives a sense of quality. Inside, the sight is securely nestled, accompanied by an instruction manual, a cleaning cloth, and a battery. The compact size of the AEMS is striking, especially given its enclosed design which promises enhanced durability and protection from the elements.

Specifications

Reticle: 2 MOA dot and 65 MOA circle
Battery Life: Up to 50,000 hours on a single CR2032 battery
Brightness Settings: 12 settings, including 2 night vision compatible
Housing Material: 7075 T6 aluminum
Weight: 3.9 ounces
Dimensions: 2.2 x 1.54 x 1.7 inches
Waterproof Rating: IPX8
Mounting: Lower 1/3 co-witness mount

Best Features

Multi-Reticle System

One of the standout features of the AEMS is its multi-reticle system. The ability to switch between a 2 MOA dot, a 65 MOA circle, or a combination of both provides incredible versatility. This feature is especially useful for different shooting scenarios, from precision shooting to rapid target acquisition.

Solar Failsafe and Shake Awake Technology

The Solar Failsafe ensures that the sight remains operational even if the battery fails, harnessing solar power to keep it running. This is paired with the Shake Awake technology, which powers the sight on with even the slightest movement and turns it off after a period of inactivity, significantly conserving battery life.

Compact and Lightweight Design

The compact size and lightweight nature of the AEMS make it an excellent choice for a variety of firearms. Despite its small footprint, it doesn’t compromise on performance or durability. The sight feels solid and well-constructed, capable of withstanding harsh conditions and heavy use.

Excellent Clarity and Brightness

The Holosun AEMS boasts exceptional clarity with its high-quality glass. The 12 brightness settings, including night vision compatible options, ensure that you can use the sight in any lighting condition. The reticle remains crisp and clear, even at the highest brightness levels.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Versatile Reticle Options: The multi-reticle system adds versatility for different shooting needs.
Long Battery Life: With up to 50,000 hours of battery life, you won't need to worry about frequent battery changes.
Durable and Lightweight: The robust construction paired with a lightweight design makes it suitable for various applications.
Solar and Shake Awake Technology: These features ensure the sight is always ready when you need it, while conserving battery life.
Excellent Clarity: The sight offers clear and crisp visuals, enhancing shooting accuracy.

Cons

Price: The AEMS is on the higher end of the price spectrum, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
Limited Field of View: Some users might find the field of view to be slightly limited compared to larger optics.

Experience When Using the Product

Using the Holosun AEMS has been a pleasure. The sight mounted easily on my rifle, and the initial setup was straightforward.
The reticle options allowed me to quickly adapt to different shooting scenarios, and the clarity of the glass made target acquisition fast and precise.
I found the Shake Awake feature particularly useful, as it ensured the sight was always ready when I picked up my firearm.
The durability of the sight was tested in various conditions, and it performed flawlessly, maintaining zero even after heavy use.

Online Customer Comments and Discussions

Online discussions about the Holosun AEMS are overwhelmingly positive. Users praise its compact size, durability, and the versatility of the multi-reticle system.
Many appreciate the long battery life and the added security of the Solar Failsafe feature. While some users mention the higher price point, most agree that the quality and features justify the cost.
The limited field of view is a minor concern for a few users, but this is generally overshadowed by the sight’s overall performance.

FAQs

Is the Holosun AEMS suitable for all types of firearms?

Yes, the Holosun AEMS is designed to be versatile and can be used on a variety of firearms, including rifles, shotguns, and even some pistols.

How does the Solar Failsafe feature work?

The Solar Failsafe feature uses solar power to keep the sight operational if the battery fails. It automatically adjusts the reticle brightness based on the ambient light conditions.

Can the reticle be changed easily?

Yes, switching between the 2 MOA dot, 65 MOA circle, and combination reticle is simple and can be done quickly using the controls on the sight.

What is the battery life of the Holosun AEMS?

The AEMS can last up to 50,000 hours on a single CR2032 battery, depending on the brightness settings and usage.

Is the Holosun AEMS waterproof?

Yes, the AEMS has an IPX8 rating, making it waterproof and capable of withstanding submersion in water.

Does the sight hold zero well?

Yes, the Holosun AEMS is designed to maintain zero even after heavy use and exposure to harsh conditions.

Alternatives

The Aimpoint Micro T-2 is another high-quality red dot sight known for its durability and performance. It offers excellent battery life and clarity, but comes at a higher price point than the AEMS.

The Trijicon MRO is a popular choice among shooters for its robust design and reliable performance. It features a larger field of view compared to the AEMS and is similarly priced.

For those who prefer holographic sights, the EOTech XPS2 is a great alternative. It offers a large window and multiple reticle options, though it is bulkier and more expensive than the AEMS.

The Vortex Razor AMG UH-1 is another excellent holographic sight option. It provides a clear sight picture and durable construction, but is also on the pricier side.

Conclusion

The Holosun AEMS stands out as a top-tier red dot sight that combines innovative features, durability, and excellent performance in a compact package.
Its versatile reticle system, long battery life, and advanced technologies make it a reliable choice for a variety of shooting applications. While it may be a bit expensive, the quality and features justify the investment.
If you're looking for a high-quality red dot sight that won’t let you down, the Holosun AEMS is definitely worth considering.
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