I’m here to share my real-world experience with the Burris Fastfire 2 Red Dot.
As an avid user, I’ve had the chance to thoroughly test this gear out in the field. While it’s packed with features, I stumbled upon a few common Burris Fastfire 2 Problems that might catch your attention too.
I’m here to not only point out these issues but also offer some practical solutions. I’m all about making your experience with the Burris Fastfire 2 smoother and more enjoyable.
| Problem | Solution |
| Brightness Issue | Manually adjust brightness levels to match environmental conditions. |
| Stuck On/Off Switch | Regularly clean the switch with a soft, dry cloth; use rubbing alcohol for stubborn dirt. |
| Size of On/Off Switch | Practice using the switch to build muscle memory; use a tool or fingertip for easier operation. |
| Inaccurate Auto-Brightness | Rely more on manual settings and adjust brightness as per the lighting conditions. |
Top 4 Burris Fastfire 2 Issues & Their Solutions
1. Brightness Issue
Out in the field, the brightness of the Burris Fastfire 2 sometimes just doesn’t cut it. I’ve noticed that in extremely bright conditions, the dot can be tough to spot.
On cloudy days or in shaded areas, the opposite happens; the dot is glaringly bright. This inconsistency is a real challenge, especially when you need quick, accurate targeting.
Solution
After some tinkering, I found a workaround. The key is manual adjustment. Instead of relying solely on the auto-brightness feature, take charge and adjust the brightness levels manually to suit your environment.
It’s a bit of trial and error at first, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll find the sweet spot for different lighting conditions.
Keep in mind, this isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution – what works in bright sunlight might not be ideal for an overcast day. Regular adjustments based on your surroundings are the way to go.
2. Stuck On/Off Switch
In my time with the Burris Fastfire 2, the on/off switch posed a significant challenge. The issue? It often gets stuck, refusing to budge when I try to turn the device on or off.
This is especially frustrating in situations where quick action is needed. Imagine being out in the field, ready for a precise shot, and your red dot sight just won’t turn on.
Or worse, it stays on, draining the battery when not in use. This isn’t just inconvenient; it’s a reliability concern.
Solution
After facing this issue a few times, I found a solution. Regular maintenance is key. The switch likely gets stuck due to dirt or debris. I started by gently cleaning around the switch with a soft, dry cloth.
Regular cleaning not only solves the sticking issue but also prolongs the switch’s life. Remember, gentle and regular maintenance is your best friend here.
3. Size of On/Off Switch
While using the Burris Fastfire 2, I quickly noticed an issue with the size of the on/off switch. It’s quite small, making it difficult to operate, especially in high-pressure situations or when wearing gloves.
This isn’t just a minor inconvenience; it affects the usability of the device. In critical moments, when speed and efficiency are key, fumbling with a tiny switch can be a real setback. It’s not what you want when every second counts.
Solution
Finding a solution to this issue required a bit of creativity. Since modifying the switch itself isn’t an option, I focused on adapting my use. I started practicing switching it on and off in different scenarios to get used to its size.
Building muscle memory helped. For those wearing gloves, I found using the tip of a finger or even a small tool like the end of a pen can make it easier to operate the switch. While this isn’t an ideal solution, it’s a practical workaround that enhances the user experience under various conditions. You can always return the sight to Burris and get a new one.
4. Inaccurate Auto-Brightness Feature
One significant issue I encountered with the Burris Fastfire 2 is its auto-brightness feature. Frankly, it’s not always on point. The sight often misjudges the ambient light, leading to either an overly dim or excessively bright dot.
This isn’t just about comfort; it’s a matter of accuracy and efficiency. In rapidly changing light conditions, the sight struggles to adjust, leaving you with a dot that’s either too faint to be seen quickly or so bright that it causes glare.
This inconsistency can be a real disadvantage in situations where precise and quick sighting is crucial.
Solution
To tackle this, I’ve learned to rely less on the auto-brightness and more on manual adjustments. It’s about understanding the lighting conditions you’ll be in and setting the brightness accordingly before heading out.
While it does require a bit of foresight and planning, this approach ensures that the dot’s visibility is optimal for your specific environment.
Also, frequent checks and adjustments during use can help maintain the right brightness level as lighting conditions change. It’s a bit more hands-on, but it significantly improves the sight’s reliability and performance.
Alternative to Burris Fastfire 2
1. Vortex Venom
Vortex Venom is a top-notch red dot sight. Its sleek design and crisp, clear optics make target acquisition a breeze. With multiple brightness settings, it adapts to various lighting conditions. It’s also parallax-free, ensuring accuracy. Vortex Venom is a durable choice for both beginners and seasoned shooters, offering exceptional value.
2. Holosun 510C
Holosun 510C is a feature-packed red dot sight. Its unique multiple reticle system lets you customize your aiming point. The solar cell technology extends battery life, and the Shake Awake function conserves power when idle. Holosun 510C is built tough and waterproof, making it ideal for any shooting environment. It’s a versatile optic trusted by many marksmen.
Final Verdict
After extensively testing the Burris Fastfire 2, I’ve concluded that while it has its challenges, it’s still a reliable option once you navigate through its quirks.
The brightness issue, stubborn on/off switch, its tiny size, and the not-so-accurate auto-brightness feature certainly present obstacles. However, each problem has a practical solution, making this red dot a viable choice.
With some manual adjustments and regular maintenance, the Fastfire 2 can be a dependable tool for precision aiming. Its strong points, like clear optics and overall functionality, shine through once these issues are managed.
FAQs
What is the difference between FastFire 2 and 3 mount?
The FastFire 2 and 3 mounts differ mainly in glass clarity; FastFire 2 has superior clarity and color-coded glass for better visibility in low light.
Is Burris FastFire waterproof?
Yes, the Burris FastFire is waterproof and comes with an optional weatherproof hood to protect against water and dirt.
Is Burris Red Dot good?
Yes, Burris Red Dots, including the Fastfire 2 and 3, are highly regarded for their accuracy and quality optics.
Is the Burris FastFire 4 better than the 3?
The FastFire 4 builds on the 3’s features, offering a larger sight window, faster target acquisition, and longer battery life, making it a more advanced option.