ADE Advanced Optics RD3-011

I recently took the plunge on the ADE Advanced Optics RD3-011 Avenger red dot sight, a budget option that promised a lot. Let’s break down how it performed:

Specs:

• 3 MOA red dot
• Up to 50,000-hour battery life (claimed)
• CR2032 battery
• Aircraft-grade aluminum housing
• Impact-resistant glass lens
• Fits Weaver-style mounts (requires pistol-specific adapter plate, sold separately)
• Night vision compatible

Best Features:

This red dot impressed me with its build quality. The housing felt solid in my hand, and the lens seemed crystal clear. The positive click adjustments on the brightness controls instilled confidence, and the 5 levels offered a good range for various lighting conditions. The night vision mode was a plus, although I haven’t had a chance to test it in the field yet.

Advantages:

For the price, the Avenger is a compelling option. It offers a larger viewing window than some micro red dots, making target acquisition faster. The top-load battery compartment allows for easy swaps without losing zero, a thoughtful touch.

Disadvantages:

Here’s where the budget aspect comes in. While the sight held zero well on my pistol, some online reviews mentioned concerns about maintaining zero on rifles due to recoil. Also, the included mount options are limited, requiring separate purchases for certain firearms.

My Experience:

Overall, I’ve been happy with the RD3-011. It’s a solid red dot for casual target shooting and plinking. The larger window makes picking up the dot instinctive, and the adjustments are easy to make. However, if you’re looking for a red dot for heavy-duty use or high-caliber rifles, you might want to consider investing in a more robust option.

Online Buzz:

Customer comments seem mixed. Some users, like me, found the Avenger to be a great value with a clear dot and easy controls. However, others have reported issues with maintaining zero on rifles and questioned the long-term durability. One YouTube reviewer even mentioned the dot shifting under recoil [YouTube, Ade Advanced Optics Red Dot “Trumpet” Sight – AVOID / DO NOT BUY!!!].

The Verdict:

The ADE Advanced Optics RD3-011 Avenger is a decent budget red dot sight. It’s well-built, easy to use, and offers a good value for the price. However, keep in mind its limitations – it might not be ideal for heavy recoil applications. If you’re a casual shooter looking for an affordable red dot to enhance your pistol’s performance, the Avenger is worth considering. But for serious competition or high-powered rifles, I’d recommend looking elsewhere.