Holosun 510C Review – Worth Buying In 2024?

The HS510C isn’t just a new iteration in Holosun’s lineup but a distinct, robust contender in the reflex sight market, aimed at users who require reliability without the hefty price tag.

However, while the HS510C meets most of its promises, it isn’t without its shortcomings. The sight, although feature-packed, comes with a slight heft, and the higher brightness settings introduce a red splash on the ocular side of the lens, which might be a concern for some users. 

Performance Review of Holosun 510C

1. Optical Quality

The Holosun HS510C’s optical quality is a mixed bag. On the one hand, the clarity and the innovative Multi-Reticle System (MRS) provide an excellent sighting experience. 

Switching between a 65 MOA circle and a 2 MOA dot or using both offers versatility for various shooting distances and scenarios. 

In my tests, the sight picture was consistently sharp, and the reticle was easy to acquire, a crucial factor in high-stress situations.

However, there’s a noticeable issue at higher brightness settings; a red splash on the ocular side of the glass. 

This can be distracting, especially in low-light conditions. While it’s not a deal-breaker, it’s certainly where the product falls short of its promise of unimpaired clarity.

Compared to others in the market, the HS510C holds its own in terms of optical performance, barring the brightness glitch.

 The clear visuals and reticle versatility are significant benefits, especially for a sight at this price point. 

As a shooter, I found this sight adequate for both range use and practical applications, though the red splash issue tempered my enthusiasm slightly.

Score: 7/10

2. Durability and Build Quality

In terms of durability and build quality, the Holosun HS510C impresses.

Its aluminum housing and titanium hood represent a design ethos prioritizing resilience and longevity. 

The sight remained solid and functional throughout my rigorous field testing, which included various weather conditions and physical handling, showcasing an admirable resistance to shock and wear.

Holosun has put considerable thought into the materials and construction. Compared to other sights in its category, it stands out for its robustness, especially considering its relatively modest price point.

The tangible feeling of reliability and sturdiness is a significant advantage for any shooter. 

Knowing that your sight can withstand rough handling and won’t fail under stress is reassuring. 

My personal experience aligns with this; despite multiple mounts, remounts, and exposure to various environmental conditions, the HS510C held zero admirably and showed no signs of functional degradation.

Score: 9/10

3. Weight and Size

The Holosun HS510C, while boasting an array of impressive features, comes with a caveat regarding its weight and size.

It weighs 8.3 ounces and’s noticeably heavier than some of its competitors. 

This added weight could concern users looking for a lightweight setup, especially when mounted on smaller firearms. 

However, the robust construction, including the aluminum housing and titanium hood, partly justifies the heft. It’s a trade-off between durability and weight.

In the field, the size of the HS510C (3.3×1.68×1.78 inches) didn’t impede my handling or maneuverability.

Comparatively, the HS510C is on the heavier side in its class, but its solid build and reliability offset this. 

The benefit of this robustness is evident in harsh shooting conditions, where the sight’s resilience shines. 

While I appreciated the solid feel and durability, I would have preferred a lighter option for more extended periods of use.

Feature	Measurement
Weight	8.3 ounces
Dimensions	3.3×1.68×1.78 inches

Score: 6/10

4. Battery Life

The battery life of the Holosun HS510C is a standout feature, significantly outperforming many in its class. 

With an advertised life of 50,000 hours, it eclipses the standard set by many other red dot sights. 

My experience aligns with this claim. The sight’s use of both a CR2032 battery and solar power means it’s always ready, a crucial factor for reliability.

Its Shake Awake technology further extends battery life, ensuring the sight is only active when needed. 

This is a practical feature that minimizes unnecessary battery drain. I found this to be highly effective in testing, with the sight ready to use at a moment’s notice.

The HS510C’s battery life is exceptional compared to other red dot sights. 

This longevity means less worry about battery changes, especially during extended use in the field.

For a shooter, this reliability is invaluable. Knowing that your sight will be operational whenever required, without the frequent need for battery changes, adds a level of confidence to your shooting experience.

Score: 9/10

5. Reticle

The Holosun HS510C’s reticle system is where it truly shines, setting a high standard in its category. 

The Multi-Reticle System (MRS) allows the user to switch between a 65 MOA circle and a 2 MOA dot or use both simultaneously. 

This flexibility is a significant advantage, catering to various shooting scenarios and distances. 

During my testing, I found the ability to switch reticles convenient and highly effective for rapid target acquisition.

However, it’s worth noting that the reticle can exhibit a red splash on the glass in higher brightness settings, which might distract some shooters. 

While this doesn’t completely diminish the effectiveness of the reticle, it’s a point where the product slightly underdelivers its promise of clear and precise sighting.

Compared to other red dot sights, the HS510C’s reticle versatility and clarity are top-notch, barring the high-brightness issue. 

The benefit of such a versatile reticle system is evident in close-quarters and mid-range shooting. 

From my experience, the reticle’s performance, especially in terms of quick target acquisition and ease of switching, makes it a standout feature of the HS510C.

Score: 7/10

6. Ease of Use

The Holosun HS510C is a well-rounded sight for ease of use. Its installation is straightforward, thanks to the quick detach system, which allows for easy mounting and removal without the need for constant adjustments. 

The sight’s controls are intuitive and user-friendly. Adjusting settings, switching reticles, and toggling between different brightness levels can be done quickly and without hassle.

A notable feature is the Shake Awake technology, which automatically turns off the LED in inactivity and instantly reactivates upon movement. 

This is convenient and extends battery life significantly, reducing the need for frequent changes.

One area where the HS510C could see improvement is in the adjustment of windage and elevation. 

These require a tool (included in the package), which might not be as convenient for shooters who prefer tool-free adjustments.

Overall, the HS510C holds its own in terms of user-friendliness, especially for shooters who appreciate a reliable and uncomplicated sight. 

Its straightforward functionality, combined with advanced features like Solar Failsafe and Shake Awake, makes it a practical choice for both novice and experienced users. 

From my experience, the sight’s ease of use greatly enhanced my shooting sessions, allowing me to focus more on the target and less on the equipment.

Score: 8/10

7. Price

Evaluating the Holosun HS510C from a price-performance perspective, it stands out as a value-for-money option in the high-end reflex sight market. 

it’s significantly more affordable than some of its counterparts, like the EOTech models, without compromising on the essential features. 

This sight brings a balance of affordability and quality, making it accessible to a broader range of shooters, from enthusiasts to professionals.

The HS510C delivers on its promises, offering a durable design, versatile reticle options, and advanced features like Solar Failsafe and Shake Awake technology. 

These features, typically found in more expensive models, give it a competitive edge. 

In the field, the performance of the HS510C felt comparable to higher-priced optics, which is a testament to its value.

Comparatively, it holds its own against more expensive sights, offering similar, if not superior, functionality in some aspects. 

From my personal experience, the HS510C is a smart investment. It offers the reliability and features necessary for various shooting applications without the steep price tag. 

Score: 9/10

Alternative Holosun 510C

If you prefer the Holosun but are considering other products, then here are some 510c substitutes you might want to consider:

1. Vortex Venom – Almost Similar

The Vortex Venom shares many characteristics with the Holosun, such as

• the lack of different reticle colors
• the ability to acquire targets quickly
• large sight window
• unlimited Eye relief

Now come to the difference, which is neither good nor bad.

• Lower price than the Holosun.
• CR-1632 battery (Not CR2032)

2. EOTech Holographic sight – More Functionalities

The 510C is a good competitor for the EOTech 518, which is among the optics it most frequently compares to. Better in some ways;

• A more conventional release mount
• Offers 20 brightness settings
• EOTech’s optic warranty is superior to that of the 510c’s
• Even if a piece of the glass is broken, it will still function.
• Reticle maintains focus even when you are looking at the targets.

Now what EOTech holographic sight lacks;

• No NVD compatible manual mode

3. Sig Sauer Romeo 5: Budget Friendly

If you’re on a limited budget, Sig Romeo 5 wonderful option. Some features similar to Holosun 510C sight;

• Motion-activated illumination control (similar to shake awake feature)
• Durable
• Reliable
• 2 MOA red dot

Final Verdict

After extensive testing, the Holosun HS510C emerges as a highly capable reflex sight, offering excellent value for its price. 

Although it’s a bit on the heavier side, this is offset by its resilience and reliability. 

The optical quality is commendable, offering clear visuals and a versatile reticle system. 

Overall, the Holosun HS510C is a robust, reliable, and cost-effective sighting solution suitable for a wide range of applications.

FAQ’s

What is the battery life of the Holosun 510c?

The Holosun 510c offers up to 50,000 hours of battery life, bolstered by Solar Failsafe and Shake Awake features.

What is the difference between Holosun 507c and 510c?

The Holosun 510c is larger and more suited for rifles or carbines, with Shake Awake™ technology and a durable aluminum and titanium build, unlike the pistol-oriented 507c.

Is Holosun 510C night vision compatible?

Yes, the Holosun 510C is compatible with night vision, featuring 2 NV compatible brightness settings among its 12 settings.

Is Holosun 510C parallax free?

Yes, the Holosun 510C offers parallax-free viewing with unlimited eye relief, featuring 0.5 MOA adjustments for windage and elevation.