As can be sussed out from its name, the Miniature Rifle Optic (MRO) is a sealed reflex sight developed by Trijicon for use aboard carbines and rifles to facilitate lightning-quick target acquisition and smooth transitions between multiple targets. Rugged, reliable and simple, the 1X optic has been highly regarded since its 2015 launch for use in close-quarters applications—largely due to its compact 2.88" overall length and its spacious 25 mm objective lens—a pairing that essentially eliminates the “tunnel vision” sensation present when using many red-dot designs. An even more feature-rich version, the multi-reticle MRO HD, was added to the catalog in 2020, and earlier this year, Trijicon introduced the MRO SD line, which pretty much amounts to a Gen 2 refresh of the original models for those who might not need all of the HD’s premium bells and whistles.
Built just as tough as the original, using the same footprint and waterproof 7075-T6 housing, the MRO SD features improved windage and elevation adjustments that better maintain zero throughout the rigors of heavy recoil and rough handling. Trijicon has also re-engineered the objective lens on the SD, rendering a crisper 2-m.o.a. dot reticle that is better suited to precise shooting and use with an accessory magnifier.
Like the original MRO, the SD offers eight brightness settings (two compatible with night-vision devices, five for standard daytime use and a high-intensity setting for use with weapon lights or very bright outdoor settings), with the red-dot version providing 2.5 years of continuous use on Level 3—the one I found most appropriate for indoor use. The MRO SD provides a total elevation/windage adjustment range of 70 m.o.a., with tactile and audible half-minute clicks, and the optic’s zero can be fine-tuned using only a cartridge rim.
Trijicon is offering numerous SKUs of the MRO SD, including both black and coyote brown finishes available in four mounting configurations, a Patrol variant featuring an anti-reflection device, flip-up lens caps and a QD Pic-rail mount, as well as a model that comes bundled with the company’s MRO 3X Magnifier.
MSRP is $868 (as shown with a lower 1/3 mount), $1,472 (with 3X magnifier). For more information, visit trijicon.com.
