Holosun 508t Review – Is It The Best Pistol Red Dot ?

Hey Shooter! Welcome to my hands-on Holosun 508t Review.

In the world of optics, the Holosun HE508T-X2 has garnered considerable attention for its performance, durability, and advanced features.

As an experienced shooter, I’ve had the opportunity to test various red dot sights, and in this review, I’ll share my insights on the HE508T-X2.

We’ll explore the key features and benefits of the sight, such as Solar Failsafe technology, Shake Awake technology, and Multi-Reticle System (MRS).

This review aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the Holosun he508t-rd x2 and help you decide if it’s the right choice for your shooting needs.

Unboxing and First Impressions

Upon receiving the HE508T-X2, I was impressed by the sturdy packaging and the included accessories. The box contained the red dot sight, a lens cloth, Coin Battery CR1632, a manual, and all necessary mounting hardware.

The initial build quality assessment revealed a robust and durable sight, thanks to the CNC-machined titanium housing. The sight felt solid and well-constructed, instilling confidence in its longevity.

Compared to other red dot optics, the HE508T-X2 was significantly more compact and lightweight. Its small dimensions made it perfect for mounting on a handgun or rifle without adding bulk.

Specifications: Holosun 508T X2

here’s a specification table for the Holosun HE508T-X2:

Reticle	Multi-Reticle System (2 MOA dot, 32 MOA circle, or combination)
Brightness settings	12 (including 2 night-vision compatible)
Magnification	1x
Lens diameter	0.63 inch
Eye relief	Unlimited
Parallax	Parallax-free
Housing material	Titanium
Water resistance	IP67 rated
Battery	CR1632
Battery life	Up to 50,000 hours
Weight	2 oz
Length	1.78 inches
Width	1.21 inches
Height	1.08 inches
Mount type	Picatinny rail Mount
Warranty	Limited lifetime warranty (housing), 5-year warranty (electronics)

Key Features Of Holosun 508t

1. Solar Failsafe technology

I can’t stress enough the importance of having a reliable power source for your optics. The Solar Failsafe technology in the HE508T-X2 is an exceptional feature that addresses this concern.

The integrated solar panel serves as an auxiliary power source, ensuring the sight remains operational even when the battery is low or in low-light conditions.

This feature provides confidence during extended shooting sessions or in situations where battery replacement might be challenging. It’s a game-changer for shooters who need consistent, dependable performance from their sights.

2. Shake Awake technology

Battery conservation is a crucial aspect of any red dot sight, and the Shake Awake technology in the HE508T-X2 is a testament to Holosun’s commitment to providing intelligent solutions.

This technology keeps the sight dormant when not in use, activating it only upon sensing movement. No more manual on/off switches or worrying about battery drain; the sight is always ready when you need it.

I found the Shake Awake feature to be very convenient and much appreciated. I appreciate this feature as it saves valuable time and ensures my sight is ready for action.

3. Multi-Reticle System (MRS)

The MRS on the HE508T-X2 is a valuable feature for shooters who want versatility and adaptability in their red dot sight. The ability to switch between a 2 MOA dot, a 32 MOA circle, or a combination of both caters to various shooting scenarios and personal preferences.

The 2 MOA dot is perfect for precision long-range shots, while the 32 MOA circle aids in rapid target acquisition in close-quarters situations. The HE508T-X2’s MRS offers flexibility that many shooters, including myself, find indispensable.

I really love this feature as it allowed me to customize my experience and get the most out of the optic.

4. Titanium housing

As a professional shooter, I need my gear to be tough and reliable, which is why the CNC-machined titanium housing on the HE508T-X2 is so impressive. Titanium offers lightweight properties and exceptional strength, ensuring the sight can withstand impact, shock, and harsh environmental conditions.

The HE508T-X2’s rugged construction instills confidence, even during heavy use or exposure to harsh elements. It’s a top choice for those who demand high-performance gear.

5. Side-mounted battery tray

The side-mounted battery tray on the HE508T-X2 is a thoughtful design feature that simplifies the battery replacement process. It allows you to change the battery without removing the sight from your firearm, saving time and eliminating the need for re-zeroing.

This feature helps maintain zero and minimize downtime during battery replacement. The compatibility with the widely available CR2032 battery further adds to the convenience, making it easy to find replacements when needed.

6. Parallax-free and unlimited eye relief

The parallax-free performance of the HE508T-X2 ensures that the reticle remains on target, regardless of the shooter’s eye position relative to the sight. This feature enables fast and accurate target acquisition without the need for perfect eye alignment.

Additionally, the unlimited eye relief allows shooters to effectively use the sight with both eyes open, providing a wider field of view and better situational awareness.

These features significantly enhance shooting speed and accuracy, making the HE508T-X2 an excellent choice for a wide range of shooting applications. As a pro shooter, I find these characteristics invaluable in my optics selection.

Performance Review of Holosun HE508T-X2

1. Clarity and brightness

I can attest to the outstanding reticle clarity and brightness of the HE508T-X2. The sight’s high-quality glass and multi-coated lens minimize distortion and deliver sharp, clear images, making target acquisition seamless. With 12 brightness settings, including two night-vision compatible options, adjusting for various lighting conditions is a breeze.

I found the HE508T-X2 to perform consistently well in both bright daylight and low-light situations, providing optimal visibility for accurate shooting.

2. The adjustability of windage and elevation

The HE508T-X2 comes with intuitive, tactile windage and elevation adjustments, simplifying the zeroing process. With a 1 MOA per click adjustment, you can precisely fine-tune the sight’s alignment.

During my testing, I found the adjustments to be consistent and accurate, ensuring my shots were on target. Moreover, the sight maintains its zero remarkably well, even after heavy use and recoil.

3. Battery life and performance

If you ask me about my experience with battery life, I’d say it exceeded my expectations. The HE508T-X2 comes with Holosun’s innovative Shake Awake technology, which senses motion to switch on or off based on user activity. This feature conserves battery power and enhances its performance in a range of light conditions.

I’ve used the sight for extended periods of time, and I still haven’t had to replace the battery. With an estimated runtime of up to 50,000 hours (that’s over 5 years!), you can be assured of reliable performance throughout your shooting sessions.

4. Durability and reliability

The robust CNC machined titanium housing of the HE508T-X2 ensures its durability and reliability.

During my hands-on testing, I Dropped the sight multiple times and even dunked it in a bucket of water, yet there were no signs of wear or damage. Its rugged construction instills confidence, even during heavy use or exposure to harsh elements. It’s a top choice for those who demand high-performance gear.

It is also IP67-rated for water resistance, meaning it can be submerged in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes without any adverse effects.

I value the ruggedness and reliability of the HE508T-X2, as it consistently performs under diverse conditions and endures the demands of the shooting world.

5. Mounting and compatibility

The HE508T-X2 is compatible with a wide array of firearms, making it a versatile and valuable addition to any shooter’s arsenal. Easily mountable on popular handgun models, rifles, and shotguns using the included Picatinny/Weaver rail mount, the sight’s low-profile design ensures minimal interference with the firearm’s ergonomics. Additionally, its lightweight construction adds negligible weight to the overall setup.

In my experience, mounting the HE508T-X2 was effortless, and its compatibility with multiple firearms is a significant advantage for shooters seeking a versatile red dot sight.

6. Size & Weight

The Holosun HE508T-X2 features a compact and low-profile design that makes it an ideal choice for shooters who prefer a minimalistic setup. The sight measures 1.78 inches in length, 1.21 inches in width, and 1.08 inches in height. Its compact dimensions ensure that it does not interfere with the ergonomics of the firearm and allows for easy co-witnessing with iron sights.

Weighing in at just 2 ounces (56.7 grams) without the mount, the HE508T-X2 is remarkably lightweight, thanks to its titanium housing. Its low weight ensures that it does not add any significant heft to your firearm, allowing for quicker target acquisition and reduced fatigue during extended shooting sessions.

Compared to other red dot sights on the market, the HE508T-X2 maintains a competitive edge in terms of weight, making it an attractive option for shooters who value a lightweight setup.

Alternatives Of Holosun 508T

1. Holosun HS507C-X2

The Holosun HS507C-X2 is another popular red dot sight from Holosun, sharing many features with the HE508T-X2. Both sights have the Solar Failsafe technology, Shake Awake technology, and Multi-Reticle System.

However, the HS507C-X2 has an aluminum housing instead of the titanium housing found on the HE508T-X2. This difference makes the HS507C-X2 slightly lighter but potentially less durable than the HE508T-X2.

See the detailed comparison of Holosun 507c and 508t.

2. Trijicon RMR

The Trijicon RMR (Ruggedized Miniature Reflex) sight is a well-known alternative to the Holosun HE508T-X2. The RMR is renowned for its durability and reliability, featuring a forged aluminum housing that can withstand harsh conditions.

It offers a single 3.25 MOA dot reticle and has an auto-adjusting brightness feature, though manual adjustments are also available. One downside of the RMR is its battery placement, requiring dismounting of the sight for battery replacement, unlike the side-mounted battery tray of the HE508T-X2.

Additionally, the RMR typically comes at a higher price point than the HE508T-X2.

See the detailed comparison of Holosun 508t Vs RMR.

3. Holosun HE509T

The Holosun HE509T is a more recent addition to Holosun’s lineup of red dot sights. Like the HE508T-X2, the HE509T features a CNC machined titanium housing, Solar Failsafe technology, Shake Awake technology, and a Multi-Reticle System.

However, the HE509T has a fully enclosed design, which provides added protection to the lens from dirt, debris, and other environmental factors. This feature makes it an attractive option for those who require added durability and protection in harsh conditions.

The HE509T also has a slightly different battery compartment design, requiring the removal of a small cover rather than a side-mounted tray.

See Detailed comparison of Holosun 508t and 509t.

Pros and Cons of Holosun 508t

Pros

• Solar Failsafe technology
• Shake Awake technology
• Multi-Reticle System (MRS)
• CNC-machined titanium housing
• Side-mounted battery tray
• Parallax-free and unlimited eye relief
• Impressive battery life
• Durable and reliable under various conditions
• Easy mounting and compatibility with firearms
• 12 brightness settings, including night-vision compatibility

Cons

• Higher price compared to some competitors

Holosun 508t Review – Video

My Personal Opinion

As an experienced shooter, I believe the Holosun HE508T-X2 offers excellent value for its price, considering its performance, features, and durability. It is well-suited for a variety of shooting applications, from competitive shooting to self-defense and hunting.

The Multiple reticles allow for adaptability to different shooting scenarios, while the Solar Failsafe and Shake Awake technologies ensure the sight is always ready for action.

Final verdict

In conclusion, the Holosun HE508T-X2 is a top-performing red dot sight that combines durability, versatility, and innovative features to enhance any shooter’s experience. I highly recommend the HE508T-X2 for those seeking a reliable and adaptable sight for various applications. While it may have a higher price tag compared to some competitors, the sight’s performance, features, and rugged construction justify the investment for any serious shooter.

FAQs

Can the Holosun HE508T-X2 be used for both indoor and outdoor shooting?

Yes, the HE508T-X2’s Multi-Reticle System (MRS) and 12 brightness settings allow for versatile use in various lighting conditions, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor shooting.

How does the Shake Awake technology work on the Holosun HE508T-X2?

The Shake Awake technology senses motion or movement, such as when the firearm is picked up or adjusted, and automatically activates the sight. It then enters sleep mode when stationary for an extended period to conserve battery life.

Can the Holosun HE508T-X2 be used with magnifiers?

Yes, the HE508T-X2 is compatible with various magnifiers, allowing for enhanced magnification and precision shooting.

Does the Holosun HE508T-X2 feature auto-adjusting brightness?

Yes, the HE508T-X2’s Auto Brightness feature adjusts the reticle’s brightness based on the ambient lighting conditions, providing optimal visibility and reducing eye strain.

Can the Holosun HE508T-X2 withstand heavy recoil?

Yes, the HE508T-X2’s CNC machined titanium housing ensures its durability and ability to withstand heavy recoil, making it suitable for high-performance firearms.

Is the Holosun HE508T-X2 waterproof?

Yes, the HE508T-X2 is rated IP67 waterproof and can withstand immersion up to one meter.