As a shooter with a passion for firearms and their accessories, I’ve always been intrigued by the advancements in red dot sights.
In this article, I’ll be diving into a comprehensive comparison of two popular red dot sights from Holosun: the Holosun 510C Vs Holosun 507C.
I’ve put these sights through their paces in various field conditions to see which one comes out on top.
| Feature | Holosun 510C | Holosun 507C |
| Reticle | Red 2 MOA Dot & 65 MOA Circle | Red 2 MOA Dot with 32 MOA Circle |
| Light Wavelength | 650nm | 650nm |
| Magnification | 1x | 1x |
| Battery Life | Up to 50,000 hours | Up to 50,000 hours |
| Brightness Settings | 10 DL & 2 NV | 12, including NV settings |
| Window Size | 0.91×1.26 inches | Smaller than 510C |
| Material | Aluminum with Titanium Hood | 7075 T6 Aluminum |
| Weight | 8.3 Ounces | 0.09 Pounds |
| Special Technologies | Solar Failsafe, Shake Awake | Solar Failsafe, Shake Awake |
| Waterproof | Yes | Yes |
Overview of Holosun 510C
The Holosun 510C is a versatile and robust open reflex sight, designed for a wide range of long guns.
Features
- Reticle: Red 2 MOA Dot & 65 MOA Circle
- Light Wavelength: 650nm
- Magnification: 1x
- Unlimited Eye Relief
- Power Source: CR2032 Battery
- Battery Life: Up to 50,000 hours
- Brightness Settings: 10 DL & 2 NV
- Window Size: 0.91×1.26 inches
- Housing Material: Aluminum with Titanium Hood
- Adjustment per Click: 0.5 MOA
- W&E Travel Range: ±50 MOA
- Weight: 8.3 Ounces
Overview of Holosun 507C
The Holosun 507C-X2 is a compact and lightweight red dot sight, ideal for pistols and smaller firearms.
Features
- Reticle: Red 2 MOA Dot with 32 MOA Circle
- Light Wavelength: 650nm
- Magnification: 1x
- Unlimited Eye Relief
- Power Source: CR1632 Battery
- Battery Life: Up to 50,000 hours
- Brightness Settings: 12, including NV settings
- Window Size: Smaller than 510C
- Housing Material: 7075 T6 Aluminum
- Weight: 0.09 Pounds
- Unique: Shake Awake Technology and Solar Failsafe
Features Comparison: Holosun 510C VS Holosun 507C
1. Durability and Toughness
Holosun 510C
From my experience in the field, the Holosun 510C’s durability is impressive. The combination of high-strength aluminum and a protective titanium hood adds significant resilience against harsh conditions.
I’ve tested this sight in rugged terrains, enduring everything from heavy rain to accidental drops. The anodized coating effectively shields it from the elements, while the recessed turrets prevent accidental adjustments.
This sight has handled high-recoil firearms with ease, proving its shockproof capability. In short, the 510C is built like a tank, ready for whatever comes its way.
Holosun 507C
The 507C also stands out for its durability, crafted from 7075 T6 Aluminum with an anodized finish. While testing, I found it robust and reliable, enduring similar harsh conditions as the 510C.
Its recessed turrets also prevent accidental adjustments, and it’s equally waterproof and fog proof. However, lacking the titanium hood of the 510C, it might be slightly more vulnerable to direct impacts.
Still, for a compact sight, its toughness is commendable and more than sufficient for typical use, including handling recoil on pistol slides.
Winner
The Holosun 510C takes the lead in this category. Its additional titanium hood and larger build offer a bit more resilience compared to the 507C.
2. Lens Clarity and Reticle
Holosun 510C
Testing the 510C, I was struck by the clarity of its lens. The lack of any noticeable color tint provides a true-to-life view, enhancing target acquisition.
Its large window size offers an expansive field of view, a significant advantage in situational awareness. The Multiple Reticle System (MRS) is a standout feature, allowing for quick transitions between a simple 2 MOA dot, a 65 MOA ring, or a combination.
In the field, this versatility proved invaluable, especially the Circle Dot Reticle for rapid engagement at various distances.
Holosun 507C
The 507C also delivers in terms of lens clarity, though with a slight blue tint. This tint wasn’t a deal-breaker in my testing but is noticeable compared to the 510C. Its smaller window is understandable given its compact design, but it limits the field of view slightly.
The MRS on the 507C is equally impressive, offering a 2 MOA dot and a 32 MOA ring. This feature makes the 507C incredibly versatile for a mini reflex sight, particularly useful for pistols.
Winner
The Holosun 510C edges out as the winner here, thanks to its larger window and clearer lens, providing an unobstructed view and versatility in reticle selection.
3. Size and Weight
Holosun 510C
The 510C is relatively compact for a full-sized reflex sight. Weighing around 8.3 ounces, it’s not excessively heavy but noticeable compared to smaller sights.
In the field, its size was never a hindrance; in fact, the larger window was an advantage during rapid target acquisition. However, for those looking for a more lightweight option or for use on smaller firearms, its size could be a consideration.
In terms of balance and handling on rifles and shotguns, the 510C performed excellently.
Holosun 507C
The 507C shines in this category. Weighing a mere 1.5 ounces, it’s incredibly lightweight and compact, making it perfect for pistols and smaller firearms.
During testing, I found it hardly noticeable, maintaining the balance of my handgun. Its compactness didn’t compromise performance, and it was remarkably easy to maneuver. For applications where size and weight are critical factors, the 507C is an outstanding choice.
Winner
The Holosun 507C is the clear winner in this category. Its ultra-lightweight and compact design make it ideal for applications where size and weight are crucial considerations.
4. Battery Life and Power Efficiency
Holosun 510
The 510C’s battery life is a game-changer. With a CR2032 battery lasting up to 50,000 hours (that’s over 5 years!), it’s a reliable partner for extended use.
During my testing, I hardly worried about the battery running out. Its Solar Failsafe technology is a standout, allowing the sight to operate even when the battery is low, as long as there’s sufficient light. This feature is especially useful in outdoor settings where light conditions vary.
The Shake Awake technology, which turns off the LED during inactivity and reactivates upon movement, further conserves battery life. It’s reassuring knowing the sight is always ready when needed.
Holosun 507C
Like its counterpart, the 507C also boasts a remarkable battery life of up to 50,000 hours on a CR1632 battery. In my experience, the Shake Awake feature played a crucial role in extending the battery life, ensuring the sight is only active when necessary.
The Solar Failsafe feature is equally effective here, providing an alternative power source in bright conditions. The 507C’s smaller size does not compromise its power efficiency, making it a reliable choice for long-term use.
Winner
It’s a draw in this category. Both sights exhibit exceptional battery life and power efficiency, ensuring reliability and extended use with minimal maintenance.
5. Overall Value and Affordability
Holosun 510C
Considering its features like the large sight window, durable build with titanium hood, and advanced technologies like Solar Failsafe and Shake Awake, the 510C offers great value. It’s a robust, reliable optic suitable for a range of long guns.
For shooters looking for a high-performing, durable red dot for rifles and carbines, the 510C is an investment that delivers quality and performance.
Holosun 507C
The 507C, with its long battery life, compact and lightweight design, and versatile mounting options, offers excellent value, especially for those using pistols or smaller firearms.
It maintains high-quality features at a more accessible price point, making it a great option for budget-conscious shooters. Its performance during my tests, particularly on pistol slides, was outstanding, providing a clear sight picture and reliable operation.
Winner
The winner in this category depends on the specific needs of the user. The 510C offers great value for rifle users seeking a robust and feature-rich sight, while the 507C is more affordable and versatile for a broader range of firearms, especially pistols.
Pros & Cons of Holosun 510C
Pros
- Robust aluminum housing with titanium hood for added durability.
- Large sight window for a broad field of view.
- Multi-Reticle System (MRS) offering versatility in targeting.
- Solar Failsafe and Shake Awake technologies for energy efficiency.
- High battery life of up to 50,000 hours.
- Suitable for a variety of long guns, including carbines and shotguns.
- Quick Detach mount included for easy attachment.
Cons
- Relatively heavier compared to compact models.
- The auto brightness mode can be inconsistent.
- Night Vision Issues
Pros & Cons of Holosun 507C
Pros
- Lightweight and compact, ideal for pistols and smaller firearms.
- Durable 7075 T6 Aluminum housing with an anodized surface.
- Long battery life with the same 50,000 hours as the 510C.
- Solar Failsafe and Shake Awake for efficient power management.
- Multiple Reticle System, though more scaled-down than 510C.
- Compatible with RMR footprint, offering wide mounting options.
- Offers 12 different brightness settings.
Cons
- Smaller sight window compared to 510C.
- Slight blue tint in the lens may be noticeable.
- Blurry Dot problem
Similarities Between Holosun 510C & Holosun 507C
- Both have durable aluminum housings.
- Both equipped with Solar Failsafe and Shake Awake technologies.
- Both offer a long battery life of up to 50,000 hours.
- Both have Multi-Reticle Systems (MRS).
- Both are waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof.
- Both have multiple brightness settings, including night vision compatibility.
Differences Between Holosun 510C & Holosun 507C
- 510C is larger and heavier; 507C is more compact and lightweight.
- 510C has a titanium hood for extra protection; 507C does not.
- 510C has a larger sight window; 507C’s is smaller.
Final Verdict & My Choice
As a shooter who has rigorously tested both the Holosun 510C and 507C sights, I’ve reached a verdict based on their performance in various categories. Each sight has its strengths, tailored to specific needs and firearm types.
In most comparisons, the Holosun 510C emerged as the winner for me due to its superior durability, lens clarity, and larger field of view, making it my preferred choice for a more diverse range of applications.
FAQs
Is the Holosun 510c durable?
Yes, the Holosun 510c is notably durable, thanks to its light yet tough titanium alloy hood.
What’s the difference between Holosun 507C and 507K?
The key difference is the 507C has a small solar panel for additional power, whereas the 507K does not have this feature.
Is the Holosun 507C waterproof?
Yes, the Holosun 507C is waterproof, equipped with a 7075 Aluminum housing and certified as IP67.
Is the Holosun 510C waterproof?
Yes, the Holosun 510C is waterproof, featuring Solar FailSafe, Shake-Awake, and a range of brightness settings suitable for various conditions.