At 33⁄8-inches tall, nearly 6-inches long and featuring a 30 mm objective lens, the Redfield CounterStrike is not the smallest red-dot scope on the market. Weighing 13.7 ounces, it’s not the lightest, either. But that size and weight facilitate two factors that set the CounterStrike apart from other optics in its class: durability and features. Redfield advertises the unit as waterproof, fogproof and shockproof, reinforcing its claim with nitrogen-purging, heft and its “No Excuses” warranty. And as to the features, the CounterStrike has a red-dot reticle that can also go green, and in case the optic isn’t enough, a red laser sight is part of the package.

Looking at the 1X optic, both the ocular and mirror-finished objective lenses are protected by polymer flip-up caps. The scope has a boxy, octagonal body that houses the tube and controls, and attaches to the laser sight and base plate. The windage and elevation adjustment screws for the red-dot are located on the right and top body panels, respectively. Both require a coin, screwdriver or similar tool to make adjustments—1/2 m.o.a. per click. The left panel has a four-button control group, three of which affect the illuminated dot. Activation is by the power button, located closest to the ocular lens. Once on, pressing the power button changes the reticle from red to green, and holding it for several seconds deactivates the unit. Buttons labeled “+” and “-” are stacked in the center of the panel and control the illumination level of the reticle, of which there are 11 settings—nine detectable by the naked eye and two designed for use with night vision. The red-dot is reported to represent 4 m.o.a., and we found that to be roughly accurate, the reticle being slightly finer, or larger, depending on illumination setting and ambient light.

The final button on the panel, located closest to the objective lens, activates the visible red laser sight. The 5-milliwatt laser is also adjustable by two aptly marked dials—“R” and “Up”—though both require the provided hex wrench to loosen lock screws prior to adjustment. The laser component is housed below the optic and attaches to the Weaver/Picatinny rail-compatible base. It also contains the compartment for the single CR123A 3-volt lithium battery that powers both the laser and riflescope. At the lowest setting, the battery can last up to 5,000 hours; however, higher illumination settings and activation of the laser sight will dramatically reduce the battery’s life. A two-hour automatic shutoff does minimize unintended power drain.

Two of the pre-eminent tools for quick target acquisition and reflex shooting are the red-dot scope and the visible laser sight. The Redfield CounterStrike combines both in a durable, feature-filled optic ready for use on tactical rifles.

Importer: Redfield; (877) 798-9686; redfield.com
Magnification and Objective:m 1X 30 mm
Finish: matte black
Eye Relief: infinite
Click Value: 1/2 m.o.a. (0.5"@100 yds.)
Reticle: 4-m.o.a. red or green dot
Height: 33⁄8"
Length: 57⁄8"
Weight: 13.7 ozs.
Features: 5-milliwatt red laser sight
Accessories: CR123A 3-volt lithium battery, hex wrench, lens covers,owner’s manual
Suggest Retail Price: $180