In this blog post, we are going to examine the Holosun Elite 508T X2 model. This red dot sight is the second-generation design of the popular 508T model. We'll start this review by taking a look at what sets the 508T X2 apart from its predecessor, and then discuss its various features and characteristics. At the end of this review, you’ll be ready to make an informed decision about whether or not this innovative device will be suitable for your needs.
Introduction of Holosun 508T X2
Since 2013, Holosun has been revolutionizing the market of red dot sights and other weapons accessories with their signature combination of quality devices at affordable prices. The brand is based in China and boasts titanium housings, complete with a triad of color illuminations to choose from:
- green,
- gold, or
- red.
By providing eye-catching design options alongside robust functionality, Holosun remains one of the industry leaders when it comes to red dot sights.
Watch our video review
Features of the Holosun 508T
Holosun's red dot sights are in contention with other leading rivals, due to their array of features. Despite being manufactured in China, the quality is comparable to Japanese and European products.
Holosun 508T red dot was initially equipped with only red illumination, but now you can also choose the green dot. Not only does it feature an advanced solar cell for greater usability, but also has titanium housing, button lockout mode, and a multi-reticle system with 12 illumination intensity levels. The ShakeAwake function conserves battery life while the brand-new design of the battery compartment makes switching batteries easier than ever before.
What is the difference between 508T V2 and X2?
As I mentioned before, X2 is the second generation of the 508T models. It has been nearly three years since V2 was first announced and debuted. Let's compare the distinctions between X2 and V2 to understand their differences better.
Firstly, there are some variations regarding the lens frame. The initial version had a curved top part of its framework; however, this new design has been upgraded with the flatter upper portion which greatly minimizes obstruction.
The buttons on the second-generation model are larger and more proximate - an improvement that I highly value. The new battery tray is located on the side instead of at the bottom, allowing for a CR 1632 battery to be used instead of just a CR 2032. In addition, this latest iteration also contains button lockout mode as another feature.
Design and build quality
Now, let's discuss the design and build quality of the 508T model. Its dimensions are relatively close to its first-generation design; 45mm in length, 32 mm wide, and 28 mm high.
The Holosun Elite series is renowned for its green illumination and/or titanium housing. This particular model offers both of these features, making it a true Elite item- even though Holosun continues to push the boundaries with their products by introducing new features that may enter into the realm of 'Elite' in days to come.
The ruggedness of the red dot sight is unmatched: it's IP67 certified, dust resistant, and waterproof to depths that reach up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
Holosun 508T VS 507K
To provide a clear understanding, the dimensions of the Holosun 507K model are comparable to those of an open reflex sight. The 507K is suitable for pistols while its bigger counterpart, the 508T works best on rifles. That being said, you could still mount either one onto your pistol if desired.
The 507K sight is the ideal size for pistols, with a smaller window (22 millimeters by 15 millimeters) than its bigger counterpart, the 508T. 507K open-reflex sight has become the standard in terms of size and appearance.
Maintaining a minimal size and weight is an essential feature of any open reflex sight, even if you sacrifice some of those when it comes to the Holosun 508T. Despite this deficiency, adding additional robustness makes up for the decrease in compactness--it's definitely worth considering.
What about the elevation and windage adjustments?
Elevation and windage adjustments are located in the usual spots, making it easier to zero your rifle with a zeroing tool that comes included in the package.
The clicks are distinct but in the best possible way. You can sense them and hear them clearly with ease. The space between each click is also well-suited for the user to keep track of how many have already been dialed.
One click equals 1 MOA, so you move the point of impact for around 1.5 centimeters at 50 meters with one click. The movement is provided right next to the adjustment screws.
Why is the lens on Holosun 508T tilted?
The 508T's lens is intentionally tilted, which customers may mistakenly believe to be an issue - but it isn't. This design ensures that the light emitted from the LED will always reflect off of a user's eye regardless of its location in front of the lens.
A tilted objective lens guarantees you'll get parallax-free red dot sight that remains accurate and reliable, regardless of how much the user’s view wavers.
The Holosun design has a more pronounced angle than other brands, allowing the LED emitter to have an incredibly slim profile. This ensures it doesn't block your vision. Additionally, this ingenious structure lessens reflections on the target.
Materials Used
The 508T red dot is constructed with a titanium body, one of the most resilient and robust materials in current use. Not many optics manufacturers have cultivated the expertise or intelligence to craft a titanium red dot sight; Holosun was among the first pioneers to do so.
Shake Awake Feature
There is a "shake-awake" function on the device, meaning that if you leave it stationary for a while, the illumination will power off to preserve battery life. When you move it again, the dot will instantly power back on. This is one of the technologies that make Holosun sights stand out from the crowd.
Brightness Settings
The 508T X2 sight is remarkable in its versatility, offering 3 settings:
- auto mode which predominantly utilizes solar energy with battery power as a backup;
- manual mode where you can toggle between 12 illumination intensity settings from the primary battery source;
- button lockout mode for those times when you need to ensure your setting remains secure.
You can easily adjust the illumination intensity with the conveniently located buttons on the side of the device. As previously mentioned, you can choose from 12 illumination settings. For your nocturnal needs, the two lowest settings on this device are night vision compatible. Meanwhile, the highest settings are perfect for use during daylight hours when brightness is more intense.
To switch on the illumination system, simply press any one of these buttons. To power it down, click both at once.
Lock Mode
Button lockout mode is a simple, yet effective way of keeping your illumination settings in place. As soon as you've determined the desired setting in manual mode, push and hold the plus button for three seconds to activate the Button Lock Mode. Once enabled, you can press any button without impacting your current configuration - giving you peace of mind that everything will stay just how it was meant to be. To revert to auto mode, press the plus button once more.
Optical performance
The Holosun 508T operates at one-time magnification, allowing the user to look through it with both eyes open. There is a small amount of blue tint present throughout the field of view, but nothing too bothersome.
Dot size
For both rifles and pistols, the 508T is an excellent choice. The 2 MOA dot is ideal for a rifle application; however, if you'd favor having improved target acquisition with your pistol, you can use a circle dot instead. On top of that, this sight can be an excellent asset for driven hunting if you're a hunter or in IPSC scenarios and similar occurrences.
Multi-Reticle System
What about the number in the model? So we have the number 508 and with Holosun the first number always suggests whether it has only a dot or a circle dot. To exemplify, the number 4 indicates just a dot reticle and 5 implies a switchable reticle.
The 508T has a switchable reticle feature, meaning you can press and hold the minus button to quickly toggle between a 2 MOA dot and; a 2 MOA dot surrounded by a 32 MOA circle or a 32 MOA ring only.
The second and third digits of the model code unmistakably point to it being in the reflex category of Holosun red dot sights. 'T' in the acronym stands for titanium, with 'RD' signifying red illumination and 'GR' symbolizing green illumination.
Battery life
With a battery life that can last up to 50,000 hours when set at mid-level (number 6), you won't have to worry about losing your power source anytime soon.
With the accompanying tool, you can access and replace the batteries with ease. That being said, to be prepared in case of an emergency power loss, you must always keep this tool on hand.
Formerly located on the bottom, the battery compartment has now been repositioned to the side and uses a CR 1632 battery instead of its predecessor - a CR 2032. This is great because if the sight is mounted on the firearm, and the battery dies, you won't have to remove it from the firearm. You can just replace the battery in a couple of seconds and you'll be ready to shoot without having to re-zero the sight.
Can the Holosun Optic Rely on Its Solar Panel Alone?
The Holosun 508T is a highly reliable optic with its solar panel providing an additional power source. To make the most of this feature, you must set the device to auto mode and ensure there is sufficient sunlight present. If not, it will draw power from the battery instead. This means that in theory, the 508T can rely solely on its solar panel for operation. However, it should be noted that optimal performance requires enough light to keep the battery charged at all times.
Mounting
Holosun 508T has the same mounting surface as Trijicon RMR, which is becoming increasingly popular. If you would like to have other mounts or adapters for the Picatinny rail, such as quick detachable types, they can be found in the offerings of many other renowned mount manufacturers.
The mount converts the footprint into a Picatinny-compatible adapter that fits onto a Picatinny or Weaver rail. It adds approximately 4 millimeters in height. The weight of the sight is approximately 55 grams. The adapter weighs 28 grams, so together they add up to around 80 grams in total weight.
What footprint does the Holosun 508T use?
As previously mentioned, the Holosun 508T X2 is designed with the Trijicon RMR mounting standard. To learn more about the Holosun 508T footprint, take a look at the image below for further information.
Holosun 508T price and warranty
Holosun's Elite line of products provides a 10-year warranty on any electronics and extensive lifetime coverage for housing. These warranties come standard with all Elite models in Holosun's inventory, ensuring you get maximum value from your purchase.
If you're looking for the 508T model with a red illuminated dot, then here in Europe it'll cost around 550 euros. If the green dot is your color of choice, then prepare to pay an additional 30 euros.
Scope of delivery
The scope of delivery is quite impressive. Your purchase will come complete with a quality box encased in padding, so you can easily move the sight without worrying that it could become damaged. There are designated compartments for all components associated with your device -including any extras- such as the tools and sight itself.
Along with the user manual crafted in English, two sets of mounting screws and a fixed adapter for securely attaching to your Picatinny platform are included.
Moreover, the kit includes a lens cloth and an all-purpose tool for attaching the device to its adapter when accessing the battery compartment. There are several other items included too.
Pros
To conclude, let me emphasize the advantages of 508T red dot sight: a titanium body for enhanced usability and durability, solar panels on top to help conserve battery life, a well-crafted windage system for accuracy, and an exquisitely crafted elevation compartment.
The 508T boasts 12 illumination intensity settings, two of which are night vision compatible and the other optimal for daytime brightness. When we discuss its second-generation updates, what immediately comes to mind is the battery compartment on the side as well as bigger buttons with an added button lockout mode – an extremely useful feature in many scenarios.
Pros summary:
- titanium housing
- solar panel
- 12 illumination settings
- big buttons
- button lockout mode
Cons
Without a doubt, the 508T red dot sight is a near-perfect device in practically every aspect. The only drawback might be that it could potentially be too large for some users. However, if this is what you're facing you can always opt to go with its smaller brother, the 507K model.
Although the 507K is not constructed from titanium, it is instead crafted out of aluminum; the 507K will provide outstanding performance. As opposed to the 508T sight, many open reflex sights lack durability because of their size.
Cons summary:
- big size
Final Thoughts on the Holosun 508T X2
The durability and robustness of the Holosun 508T series are definitely one of its biggest advantages. This makes it a great choice for anyone looking for maximum strength and an abundance of innovative features in an open-reflex sight. The improvements to generation 2 are certainly appreciated, and we can't wait to see what else Holosun has in store.
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