SIOPTO SCOUTER First Look: A Middleweight Red-Dot that Balances

Until we reach a point where we get the floating sights found in sci-fi video games, red dot optics will always be balancing a line between the size of the optic, and the field of view it provides. The Aimpoint T-1 Micro prioritized a rugged construction and small footprint, where the EOTech featured an impressive field of view that complemented its holographic reticle. The SIOPTO Scouter, exclusively available through Strike Industries, balances these two demands, with a 20 MOA Field of View, a robust construction, intuitive settings, a player in regards to overall size, and assembled in the United States.

Framework makes the Brain Work Less

One of the balancing issues that plague red dot sights is how much the body of the optic obscures the shooter's view. The use of the term balancing is not in vain, as there are two places where this is used: physics and video games. In regards to physics: weight and mass, an ideal optic does not add weight frivolously to a complete rifle, carbine, or pistol build, and its size does not inhibit streamlined storage for quick deployment, whether in a bug out bag, in the home, or the armory.

But in Video Games, which are criticized for their inaccuracies, while simultaneously influencing Gun Culture, play a role in how both firearms and accessories are perceived. In a game that allows the player to choose their optic, the amount of the screen that the body of an optic obscures vision ends up being a part of its evaluation. How much this applies to real-world optics needs to be considered.

The SIOPTO Scouter is not the smallest, nor the least expensive, nor the most innovative optic recently released. It does not market itself on emotional grounds by forgoing all cost savings by being fully produced, from conception through materials and components to assembly in the United States. Instead, it balances those decisions to create a respectable optic, that integrates intuitive technological features into a simple aiming device that functions above its cost.

Features

The 2 MOA LED red dot sits inside a 20mm objective field of view of the SIOPTO Scouter. When looking through the optic, the sidewalls and body of the optic are visible when one eye is closed. Unlike video games, which have not yet accurately represented the proper use of red dot optics; when both eyes are open, most of this obscuration disappears.

When evaluating discoloration typical to red dot sights, the SIOPTO Scouter excels. The iconic blue tint typical to red dot optics is barely noticeable on the Scouter. The 2 MOA dot splashes minimally, and doesn't distract from its purpose.

For tech, the SIOPTO Scouter integrates both user preference and utility. After 2 hours of inactivity, the dot turns off but remains in a dormant state until moved. However, for prolonged storage, if the user deliberately turns the dot off via the buttons, all motion activating tech is suspended. The user then can choose between leaving it in a ready state or battery saving option. Of the 11 levels of brightness, at halfway, it states 2 years of battery life.

Utilizing a 2032 Battery is nothing new, and where many incorporate a pseudo-quick change option, the SIOPTO Scouter doesn't play footsie with your tools. Replacing the battery requires removing four screws. This absolutely shouldn't be done in the field, although we can count on one finger the number of times this has happened in a remotely near dire situation, mostly because of prior laziness.

Evaluation of the SIOPTO Scouter

The objective of the SIOPTO Scouter is clear in its design. It exceeds the needs of many without overburdening them with cost. Does it provide an optimal red dot option at a competitive price? Yes. Does it challenge the qualities of night vision capable optics? No. If we'd started this evaluation by weighing the cost of a sub-$300 optic's compatibility with +$2,500 night vision devices it would be disingenuous.

With the same footprint as the T-1 Micro, the SIOPTO Scouter can be attached to taller mounts for a more head's up shooting posture. With this red dot, the whole turns out to be more than a summary of its parts as the pricepoint, clear glass, robust design, and avoidance of proprietary interfaces result in a reliable, and visually distinguishing optic for various builds.

SIOPTO Scouter

Dimensions: 3.12 x 1.78 x 1.52 inches
Weight: 6.3 ounces with battery and mount
Body Material: 6061-T6 Billet Aluminum
Brightness Levels: 11
Dot Size: 2 MOA
Adjustment: 1/2 MOA per click
Battery: CR2032
Battery Life: 18,000 hours at level 6
MSRP: $250

URL: www.strikeindustries.com

More on Red Dot Sights and other Optics

• Red Dot Sight Buyer's Guide.
• Vortex Sparc Solar Review.
• LPVO vs Magnifier, Pick your Poison.
• EOTech Magnifier: Force Multipliers.
• Many of the Best 9mm Pistols for 2020 come optics-ready.
• Aimpoint Acro vs Holosun 509T: Battle of Sealed MRDS Optics.
• Vortex Red Dot Sight Buyer's Guide

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