Holosun 507C Review: The Red Dot That Stands Its Ground

As an avid shooter and gun enthusiast, I’ve had my fair share of experiences with various optics and I know a good optic when I see it. So let me share my first-hand experience with a game-changer: the Holosun 507c. I’ve had the opportunity to test out various red dot sights, and the Holosun 507c has left a lasting impression, so I’m excited to share my personal thoughts and review this great piece of gear. 

Specifications and Purpose of Holosun 507C

Before diving into my own experiences with the Holosun 507C, let’s take a quick look at its specifications and why it’s such a remarkable red dot sight. It’s a great choice for shotguns because of its versatile reticle system, durability and quick target acquisition. 

The Holosun 507C is part of the X2 series pistol optics and is designed to meet the needs of firearm enthusiasts, competitive shooters, and professionals. It boasts a combination of advanced features and an affordable price point, making it a compelling option in the crowded red dot market. The company makes a lot of affordable yet excellent optics like Holosun 507k, Holosun 507 comp, and Holosun 507c X2 ACSS Vulcan but the 507C is my favorite. 

One of the standout features of the Holosun 507C is its multiple reticle system, which pairs exceptionally well with shotguns, among other firearms. With a 32 MOA circle, it provides a perfect balance between quick target acquisition and precision shooting, as you’ll discover.

Powering the Holosun 507C is a single CR1632 battery. This battery provides a 10,000-hour runtime when set to its middle brightness setting. The red dot sight also offers a solar option, further extending its reliability. This not only extends the battery life but also ensures that the optic is always ready when you need it.

The auto-adjust feature is a game-changer, seamlessly transitioning from bright daylight to low light conditions. It’s a remarkable addition, but as you’ll see, it’s not without its quirks. Made from 7075 aluminum, the Holosun 507C exudes durability and reliability, essential qualities for any optic, particularly those used in demanding situations.

Now that’s out of the way, let’s dive into my comprehensive review with the Holosun 507C.

Holosun 507C Features

1 Brightness controls

The brightness controls are not large, but they are easily assessable for fine tuning the brightness of the reticle.

2 Solar panel

Solar Failsafe feature ensures you have a backup power source if your battery fails as long as there is a natural or artificial light source.

3 Windage/Elevation adjustment

1 MOA windage and elevation adjustments are easy to adjust to get the perfect zero.

4 Battery tray

Side mounted battery tray allows you to replace the battery without removing the optic.

5 Reticle

The multiple reticle system (MRS) allows you to choose from either a dot, a circle, or a dot in the circle to use what works best for you.

My Review Of The Holosun 507C

One of the first aspects I want to touch on is clarity. Many users have praised the clarity of the Holosun 507C’s reticle, and I concur. The reticle remains focused and clear in dim lighting, even at higher brightness. This level of clarity is crucial for maintaining accuracy and target tracking during shooting. I also really like the variety of reticles. You’ve got three to choose from, which is a fantastic feature because it caters to different shooting preferences. Whether you prefer a precise dot or a reticle with a bit more going on, the Holosun 507C has you covered. 

Personally, I found myself gravitating toward the 32 MOA circle, paired with the 2 MOA dot, because it offers a versatile sight picture and is perfect for my Benelli M4. It’s quick to pick up and get on target, especially in those fast-paced situations where speed matters. The Holosun 507C also provides an excellent balance between fast target acquisition and precise shot placement. This is great whether you’re engaging in competitive shooting or using it for personal defense.

The glass on this bad boy is clear, but there’s a subtle greenish-blue hue to it. Now, here’s the thing–this tint doesn’t interfere with your sight picture under normal lighting conditions. I barely noticed it, and it certainly didn’t bother me. In the grand scheme of things, it’s a minor trade-off for the incredible benefits this optic brings to the table.

One issue you might come across is the optical distortion when viewing the sight off-center. This can be a bit distracting for some users. But, considering that it’s a pistol red dot, it doesn’t really impact your point of impact.

The Holosun 507C’s shootability is an area where it truly shines. Thanks to its reticle system, which includes a 32 MOA circle, picking up the dot quickly becomes more manageable. This feature is especially valuable in high-stress situations, where every millisecond counts. However, I would love to see an even larger circle for even faster target acquisition.

If you’re a seasoned shooter, you may have noticed that the Holosun 507C’s reticle is easier to find than some other options, thanks to its ACSS setup. I find this feature particularly useful, especially if you’re not always in the perfect shooting stance.

Reliability is a crucial factor when choosing any optic for your firearm. The Holosun 507C has proven itself in durability tests, making it an excellent choice for those who demand a reliable sight. It handled 500-round burn tests and shoulder-height drops with impressive resilience. Though the lens cracked during the drops, the reticle remained functional, which is a testament to its robust design. It’s well-regarded for its robust build quality, and its controls are simple and easy to operate. It’s built to withstand the rigors of competition, and I’ve used it in such scenarios with great success.

One of the standout features contributing to the Holosun 507C’s reliability is its long battery life that can last for up to 10,000 hours on a medium setting. And if that’s not enough, the solar failsafe and the shake-awake technology just seal the deal on reliability. It’s like this optic is always ready to roll, no matter the situation. I’ve come to rely on it in various shooting scenarios, and it hasn’t let me down. It’s the kind of dependability that gives you peace of mind, and that’s exactly what you want in a firearm accessory.

They packed the Holosun 507C with features that set it apart in the market. One feature I am personally a fan of is the auto-brightness feature. It’s a nice touch, especially when you’re moving from a bright outdoor environment to a dimly lit indoor space. However, here’s the kicker—for some users, the auto mode might seem a tad dim, and that’s where the manual mode comes in handy. Switching to manual is as simple as a couple of button presses. It’s an excellent choice for everyday carry.

That roomy window size—I can’t emphasize enough how much I love it. It’s like having a panoramic view through your optic. Your sight picture is crystal clear, and getting on target feels like second nature. It’s a game-changer, especially when speed and precision matter.

Additionally, the optic is compatible with night vision, enhancing its versatility. Whether it’s training in low-light conditions or using night vision gear in the field, this optic is up to the task. It’s that reliable sidekick you can count on, no matter what shooting scenario you’re in.

Final thoughts on Holosun 507C

In my journey with the Holosun 507C, I’ve discovered an optic that impressively balances affordability and performance. While it may not have the same name recognition as some competitors, it stands its ground in terms of clarity, shootability, reliability, and features.

Its durability and competitive pricing, coupled with its incredible accuracy, means that it’s a perfect sight for shotguns–and that’s exactly why I listed it as the best shotgun red dot scope in my article–which you can check out here. 

For those who want to experience the world of pistol-mounted optics without draining their wallets, I wholeheartedly recommend giving the Holosun 507C a try. It’s a red dot sight that offers a great balance between performance and affordability, and it won’t disappoint.

Holosun 507C Pros and Cons 

FAQ on Holosun 507C

Important Links

• 507c by Holosun
• Holosun 507c User Manual