I’m here to share my hands-on experience with the BURRIS FastFire IV red dot. As someone who’s spent a lot of time testing this gear in the field, I’ve run into a few snags.
During my time with the FastFire IV, I stumbled upon some common Burris FastFire IV Problems that seemed to pop up more often than not. We’re talking about zeroing issues, a cracked reticle, and that pesky flickering red dot that can be a real headache.
I will dive into these problems, break them down, and, most importantly, offer some practical solutions.
| Problem | Solution |
| Zeroing Issue | Recheck installation, reset to factory settings, test on a different firearm, or contact the manufacturer for support. |
| Reticle Cracked | Assess the damage and return under warranty if it’s a significant crack. |
| Flickering Red Dot | Replace the battery and ensure tight electrical contacts; seek professional help if the issue persists. |
Top 3 Burris FastFire IV Issues & Their Solutions
1. Zeroing Issue
My first day at the range with the BURRIS FastFire IV was a bit of a letdown. Here’s the deal: I tried to zero the red dot, aiming to adjust it up, down, left, and right.
But no matter what I did, my shots consistently veered off to the same spot on the left. Initially, I thought maybe it was just me.
Solution
When faced with a zeroing issue like this, the first step is to recheck the installation. Make sure that the red dot is mounted correctly and securely on your firearm.
Next, you’ll want to reset the sight to its factory settings. This often involves adjusting the windage and elevation settings back to their original positions.
If the problem persists, it’s time to test the sight on a different firearm to rule out any compatibility issues. In cases where these steps don’t solve the problem, it could indicate a defect with the sight itself.
In such a scenario, contacting the manufacturer for support or considering a replacement becomes the practical solution. Remember, a reliable zero is crucial for accurate shooting, so don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed.
2. Reticle Cracked
So, here’s a curveball I didn’t see coming with the BURRIS FastFire IV. Picture this: I was using a Beretta 92X, loaded with 9×21 135 grain ammo, and all seemed well until I noticed a crack in the sight glass.
This was no superficial scratch; we’re talking about a full-on crack right across the reticle. It was one of those moments that make you do a double-take. You might be wondering, how did this happen? Well, it’s hard to pin down the exact cause.
Could it be the recoil, a manufacturing flaw, or just bad luck? Whatever it was, a cracked reticle is no joke. It compromises the sight’s integrity and, more importantly, your shooting accuracy.
Solution
Faced with a cracked reticle, the solution was pretty straightforward. The first step is always to assess the damage. If it’s a minor scratch, sometimes you can live with it.
But a crack like this? That’s a different story. The solution I went for was to return the sight under warranty. It’s a no-brainer, really.
When you encounter a problem like this, especially if it’s a manufacturing defect, make use of that warranty. I contacted the manufacturer, explained the situation, and sent the sight back. They were pretty helpful, which made the process smoother.
3. Flickering Red Dot
Here’s a tricky issue I encountered with the BURRIS FastFire IV: a flickering red dot. It started happening out of the blue. Initially, it seemed fine, but then, with each recoil, the red dot began to flicker.
This wasn’t just a minor annoyance; it was seriously affecting my aim and focus. A stable and reliable red dot is crucial for precision shooting, and this inconsistency was a big problem.
At first, I thought it might be a temporary glitch, but the issue persisted, making it clear that there was something more going on. The flickering seemed to worsen with more intense recoil, which made me suspect it was related to the power supply or the electrical connections within the sight.
Solution
To tackle the flickering issue, I went for a two-pronged approach. First, I swapped out the battery. It’s a simple step, but often, power inconsistencies can be traced back to a dying or weak battery.
After replacing the battery, there was an immediate improvement, but I wasn’t done yet. Next, I decided to firm up the electrical contacts. This means making sure that all the connections within the sight are tight and secure.
You’d be surprised how often a loose connection can cause problems like this. After tightening the contacts, the flickering issue seemed to resolve, at least for a while. It’s important to remember that these are temporary fixes.
Alternatives to Burris FastFire IV
1. Vortex Venom
The Vortex Venom is a popular choice among shooters for its crisp and clear red dot, enhancing target acquisition and accuracy. With its durable construction and user-friendly controls, the
Vortex Venom is a reliable option for various firearms and shooting applications.
2. Holosun 507C
Holosun 507C is known for its versatility, offering multiple reticle options and solar power for extended use without worrying about battery changes. This red dot sight is favored by shooters for its compact design and advanced features, enhancing precision and ease of use.
3. Leupold DeltaPoint
The Leupold DeltaPoint stands out for its rugged construction and crystal-clear optics, ensuring a sharp and reliable sight picture. With its low-profile design and motion-sensor technology, it’s an excellent choice for fast target acquisition and improved shooting performance.
4. Holosun 507C ACSS Vulcan
The Holosun 507C ACSS Vulcan combines the reliability of Holosun with ACSS reticle technology, offering precise aiming points for various distances. Shooters appreciate its battery life, allowing extended use, and its rugged construction that can withstand harsh conditions.
Final Verdict
After thoroughly testing the BURRIS FastFire IV, I’ve concluded that despite its issues, it remains a reliable red dot sight once these problems are addressed.
The zeroing issue, cracked reticle, and flickering red dot are significant but solvable challenges. With proper maintenance, usage, and occasional troubleshooting, the FastFire IV can be a dependable tool for shooters.
It’s not without its faults, but its performance post-fixes makes it a worthy consideration for those needing a robust and effective red dot sight.
FAQ’s
Is the Burris FastFire 4 better than the 3?
The FastFire 4 builds upon the FastFire 3’s features, offering a larger sight window and longer battery life, making it a better choice for faster target acquisition.
Is Burris FastFire waterproof?
Yes, the FastFire is waterproof and comes with an optional weatherproof hood for additional protection.
How long is the Burris FastFire 4?
The Burris FastFire 4 measures 1.9 inches in length, 1.23 inches in width, and 1 inch in height, weighing 1.06 ounces.
Is Burris Red Dot good?
The Burris Red Dot, especially the FastFire 3, is known for its lightweight design, natural target acquisition, and accuracy, with a strong customer support backing.