{"id":1199,"date":"2023-05-26T07:29:47","date_gmt":"2023-05-26T07:29:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/americangunpeople.com\/?p=1199"},"modified":"2023-05-26T07:29:47","modified_gmt":"2023-05-26T07:29:47","slug":"gear-review-vortex-defender-ccw-red-dot-sight","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/americangunpeople.com\/?p=1199","title":{"rendered":"Gear Review: Vortex Defender-CCW Red Dot Sight"},"content":{"rendered":"<p> <br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div>\n<div class=\"td-post-featured-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142617274.MP_-scaled.jpg\" data-caption=\"\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"696\" height=\"524\" class=\"entry-thumb td-modal-image\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142617274.MP_-696x524.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142617274.MP_-696x524.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142617274.MP_-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142617274.MP_-700x527.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142617274.MP_-768x578.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142617274.MP_-1536x1157.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142617274.MP_-2048x1542.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142617274.MP_-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142617274.MP_-1068x804.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142617274.MP_-1920x1446.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142617274.MP_-558x420.jpg 558w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142617274.MP_-80x60.jpg 80w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142617274.MP_-560x422.jpg 560w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\" alt=\"Vortex Defender-CCW red dot sight\" title=\"Vortex Defender-CCW red dot sight\"\/><\/noscript><\/a><\/div>\n<p>Vortex is now in its third incarnation of a handgun optic. The first two are now rather old school in a modern pistol red dot world, and with their newest model, Vortex has made things a little more compact. The <a href=\"https:\/\/vortexoptics.com\/defender-ccw+reticle-3~MOA~Defender~Dot\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Vortex Defender-CCW<\/a> red dot sight is their latest. It\u2019s a small pistol optic with some modern flair and appeal. With the Defender-CCW, Vortex aims to provide a basic, but a durable and, most importantly, reasonably priced red dot sight for concealed carry.<\/p>\n<p>The popular Shield RMSc footprint is becoming nearly universal among subcompact pistols and even on some larger models and that\u2019s what Vortex chose for the Defender-CCW. Out of the box, the sight impressed me.<\/p>\n<p>Well, what was in the box impressed me. For a budget optic, I didn\u2019t expect a Picatinny mount or a series of screws to make attachment easy, but that\u2019s what I found. Vortex includes half a dozen different screw sizes to make it easy to attach the sight to whatever handgun you may have.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_538707\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-538707\" style=\"width: 696px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-538707 size-large\" alt=\"Vortex Defender-CCW red dot sight\" width=\"696\" height=\"524\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142613684-700x527.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142613684-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142613684-768x578.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142613684-1536x1157.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142613684-2048x1542.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142613684-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142613684-696x524.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142613684-1068x804.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142613684-1920x1446.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142613684-558x420.jpg 558w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142613684-80x60.jpg 80w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142613684-560x422.jpg 560w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142613684-700x527.jpg\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-538707 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142613684-700x527.jpg\" alt=\"Vortex Defender-CCW red dot sight\" width=\"696\" height=\"524\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142613684-700x527.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142613684-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142613684-768x578.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142613684-1536x1157.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142613684-2048x1542.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142613684-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142613684-696x524.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142613684-1068x804.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142613684-1920x1446.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142613684-558x420.jpg 558w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142613684-80x60.jpg 80w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142613684-560x422.jpg 560w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-538707\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Vortex Defender-CCW comes ready to mount. (Travis Pike for TTAG)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Along with those screws and the adapter, there\u2019s also a shim plate and a handy little tool to attach the optic, replace the battery, and zero it. I\u2019m a sucker for little tools like that.<\/p>\n<p>I\u2019ve already said it\u2019s an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/the-new-vortex-venom-5-25x56-ffp-rifle-scope\/\">affordably priced optic<\/a>, but how affordable? The MSRP is $349.99, but when they first premiered, they seemed to be selling for $249. Lately I\u2019ve been seeing I\u2019m seeing them priced <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shopmyexchange.com\/vortex-defender-ccw-6-moa-red-dot\/3572685\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">close to $200<\/a> if you look hard. That almost seems too good to be true for an optic designed for serious use. Let\u2019s dig in and see if the optic is worth it.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_538709\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-538709\" style=\"width: 696px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-538709 size-large\" alt=\"Vortex Defender-CCW red dot sight\" width=\"696\" height=\"524\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142752274-700x527.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142752274-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142752274-768x578.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142752274-1536x1157.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142752274-2048x1542.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142752274-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142752274-696x524.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142752274-1068x804.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142752274-1920x1446.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142752274-558x420.jpg 558w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142752274-80x60.jpg 80w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142752274-560x422.jpg 560w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142752274-700x527.jpg\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-538709 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142752274-700x527.jpg\" alt=\"Vortex Defender-CCW red dot sight\" width=\"696\" height=\"524\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142752274-700x527.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142752274-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142752274-768x578.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142752274-1536x1157.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142752274-2048x1542.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142752274-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142752274-696x524.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142752274-1068x804.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142752274-1920x1446.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142752274-558x420.jpg 558w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142752274-80x60.jpg 80w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142752274-560x422.jpg 560w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-538709\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">This texture helps in racking it off of random solid objects. (Travis Pike for TTAG)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h3><strong>Vortex Defender-CCW Specifications and Features<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>The Defender-CCW is a featherweight at .95 of an ounce, and it\u2019s only 1.59 inches long and the little guy is made from 7075 aluminum. Vortex says they use polymer inserts to help absorb shock and improve durability. It seems like a good idea, but we\u2019ll figure that out soon enough.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_538705\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-538705\" style=\"width: 696px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-538705 size-large\" alt=\"Vortex Defender-CCW red dot sight\" width=\"696\" height=\"524\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143107422.MP_-700x527.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143107422.MP_-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143107422.MP_-768x578.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143107422.MP_-1536x1157.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143107422.MP_-2048x1542.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143107422.MP_-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143107422.MP_-696x524.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143107422.MP_-1068x804.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143107422.MP_-1920x1446.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143107422.MP_-558x420.jpg 558w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143107422.MP_-80x60.jpg 80w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143107422.MP_-560x422.jpg 560w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143107422.MP_-700x527.jpg\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-538705 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143107422.MP_-700x527.jpg\" alt=\"Vortex Defender-CCW red dot sight\" width=\"696\" height=\"524\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143107422.MP_-700x527.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143107422.MP_-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143107422.MP_-768x578.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143107422.MP_-1536x1157.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143107422.MP_-2048x1542.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143107422.MP_-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143107422.MP_-696x524.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143107422.MP_-1068x804.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143107422.MP_-1920x1446.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143107422.MP_-558x420.jpg 558w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143107422.MP_-80x60.jpg 80w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143107422.MP_-560x422.jpg 560w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-538705\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Defender-CCW comes with either a 3 or 6 MOA dot. (Travis Pike for TTAG)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Shooters can choose between a 3 or 6 MOA dot. I went with the more eye-catching 6 MOA option. There are ten brightness settings along with two-night vision settings.<\/p>\n<p>Battery life is rated at a measly 9,000 hours. That\u2019s just over a year in a category where competitors are getting a minimum of 20,000 hours and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/gear-review-bushnell-rxs-250-reflex-sight\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">as much as 50,000<\/a> of rated use. That probably has something to do with Vortex\u2019s decision to power the Defender-CCW with a CR1632 battery rather than the more frequently used, higher capacity CR2032.<\/p>\n<p>Vortex has given the Defender-CCW shake-awake technology. That\u2019s nice, but the optic doesn\u2019t auto shut-off until it hasn\u2019t been touched for 14 hours. Think about that. If this is the red dot you mount on your EDC, as it\u2019s being marketed, and it\u2019s on your hip for most of the day, a 14-hour shut-down time means the Defender-CCW will virtually <em>never<\/em> turn itself off.<\/p>\n<p>That\u2019s OK if you\u2019re getting at least 20,000 hours \u2014 about 2\u00bd years \u2014 of battery life. But that isn\u2019t the case here. The Defender-CCW gives you less than half that. Perhaps a more powerful battery, and\/or a shorter auto shut-off time to conserve more power would have been a better way to go.<\/p>\n<p>Again, other red dots in the same price range, some without shake-awake, will give you <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/gear-review-bushnell-rxs-250-reflex-sight\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">50,000 hours<\/a> of run time. Besides, shake-awake doesn\u2019t get you much if you won\u2019t have to change your battery for well over<em> five years <\/em>anyway.<\/p>\n<p>The good news is swapping out the CR1632 battery is a breeze, no matter how often you need to do it, thanks to the top-loading design. Very convenient and easy.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_538712\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-538712\" style=\"width: 696px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-538712 size-large\" alt=\"Vortex Defender-CCW red dot sight\" width=\"696\" height=\"524\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143054982-700x527.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143054982-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143054982-768x578.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143054982-1536x1157.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143054982-2048x1542.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143054982-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143054982-696x524.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143054982-1068x804.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143054982-1920x1446.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143054982-558x420.jpg 558w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143054982-80x60.jpg 80w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143054982-560x422.jpg 560w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143054982-700x527.jpg\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-538712 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143054982-700x527.jpg\" alt=\"Vortex Defender-CCW red dot sight\" width=\"696\" height=\"524\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143054982-700x527.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143054982-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143054982-768x578.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143054982-1536x1157.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143054982-2048x1542.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143054982-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143054982-696x524.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143054982-1068x804.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143054982-1920x1446.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143054982-558x420.jpg 558w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143054982-80x60.jpg 80w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143054982-560x422.jpg 560w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-538712\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The top loading battery makes battery swaps easy. (Travis Pike for TTAG)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>One of the Defender-CCW\u2019s more noticeable features is the prominently textured front frame. This is supposed to allow for easier cocking of the slide using a belt, a wall, a table, whatever. Of course, you can do that with practically any optic, but Vortex\u2019s texturing is supposed to help make sure the sight gives you a good grip. To me, it\u2019s also the company endorsing a behavior that I will happily indulge in.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Controls and Zeroing<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>The Defender-CCW\u2019s controls consist of two big prominent buttons on either side of the housing. They control brightness levels, as well as turning the optic on and off. They\u2019re nicely sized, easy to access, and recessed slightly, which is a nice touch. That helps prevent accidental presses.<\/p>\n<p>It takes some real effort to press the buttons and to change the brightness levels, which is a good thing. That, along with the recessing means you won\u2019t accidentally change your brightness level. They\u2019re easy to use and control, and the buttons have a good tactile feel to them.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_538704\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-538704\" style=\"width: 696px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-538704 size-large\" alt=\"Vortex Defender-CCW red dot sight\" width=\"696\" height=\"524\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143114728-700x527.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143114728-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143114728-768x578.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143114728-1536x1157.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143114728-2048x1542.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143114728-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143114728-696x524.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143114728-1068x804.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143114728-1920x1446.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143114728-558x420.jpg 558w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143114728-80x60.jpg 80w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143114728-560x422.jpg 560w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143114728-700x527.jpg\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-538704 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143114728-700x527.jpg\" alt=\"Vortex Defender-CCW red dot sight\" width=\"696\" height=\"524\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143114728-700x527.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143114728-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143114728-768x578.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143114728-1536x1157.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143114728-2048x1542.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143114728-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143114728-696x524.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143114728-1068x804.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143114728-1920x1446.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143114728-558x420.jpg 558w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143114728-80x60.jpg 80w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_143114728-560x422.jpg 560w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-538704\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Notice the button sits slightly recessed to prevent accidental actuations. (Travis Pike for TTAG)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Zeroing isn\u2019t difficult, but Vortex seemed shy about making windage and elevation adjustments tactile. They\u2019s <em>just<\/em> enough of a click to barely feel it as you make adjustments, one MOA at a time. You really have to pay attention to the slight rotations you are making.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>At the Range<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>That big 6 MOA dot is easy to see, but it\u2019s not super crisp or round. It also tends to starburst a bit unless you crank it up to the highest settings. If you max out the brightness level, it\u2019s quite clear and crisp, and easy to see in the daylight. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/scope-review-vortex-strike-eagle-1-6x24-rifle-scope\/\">dot<\/a> contrasts well against the blue tint of the glass, which isn\u2019t severe, (though it\u2019s noticeable).<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_538711\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-538711\" style=\"width: 696px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-538711 size-large\" alt=\"Vortex Defender-CCW red dot sight\" width=\"696\" height=\"524\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142651991.MP_-700x527.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142651991.MP_-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142651991.MP_-768x578.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142651991.MP_-1536x1157.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142651991.MP_-2048x1542.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142651991.MP_-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142651991.MP_-696x524.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142651991.MP_-1068x804.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142651991.MP_-1920x1446.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142651991.MP_-558x420.jpg 558w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142651991.MP_-80x60.jpg 80w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142651991.MP_-560x422.jpg 560w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142651991.MP_-700x527.jpg\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-538711 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142651991.MP_-700x527.jpg\" alt=\"Vortex Defender-CCW red dot sight\" width=\"696\" height=\"524\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142651991.MP_-700x527.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142651991.MP_-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142651991.MP_-768x578.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142651991.MP_-1536x1157.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142651991.MP_-2048x1542.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142651991.MP_-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142651991.MP_-696x524.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142651991.MP_-1068x804.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142651991.MP_-1920x1446.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142651991.MP_-558x420.jpg 558w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142651991.MP_-80x60.jpg 80w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142651991.MP_-560x422.jpg 560w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-538711\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Once jacked to the highest level, the dot becomes quite nice. (Travis Pike for TTAG)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Also, the red dot flickers slightly and lags a bit when rapidly moved. The flicker is most noticeable at lower brightness levels and goes away when the red dot is set to maximum brightness.<\/p>\n<p>If you drive the gun from target to target, you\u2019ll notice it trailing a bit. The flicker and lag are no doubt due to a low refresh rate. That may not bother everyone, but if you have a keen eye and can track your dot, you might notice it as the slide reciprocates as well.<\/p>\n<p>Is that bad? Probably not for most shooters. Still, it\u2019s noticeable and a telltale sign of a budget optic.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_538710\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-538710\" style=\"width: 696px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-538710 size-large\" alt=\"Vortex Defender-CCW red dot sight\" width=\"696\" height=\"524\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142700114-700x527.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142700114-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142700114-768x578.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142700114-1536x1157.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142700114-2048x1542.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142700114-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142700114-696x524.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142700114-1068x804.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142700114-1920x1446.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142700114-558x420.jpg 558w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142700114-80x60.jpg 80w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142700114-560x422.jpg 560w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142700114-700x527.jpg\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-538710 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142700114-700x527.jpg\" alt=\"Vortex Defender-CCW red dot sight\" width=\"696\" height=\"524\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142700114-700x527.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142700114-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142700114-768x578.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142700114-1536x1157.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142700114-2048x1542.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142700114-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142700114-696x524.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142700114-1068x804.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142700114-1920x1446.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142700114-558x420.jpg 558w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142700114-80x60.jpg 80w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142700114-560x422.jpg 560w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-538710\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Defender-CCW is one of the better budget red dot options. (Travis Pike for TTAG)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The dot holds zero well, and through several hundred rounds it didn\u2019t lose or slip its zero. The dot shows up perfectly with ambient light coming from the rear, the front, or sides. Used with a weapon light, it\u2019s quite visible and shows up without issue.<\/p>\n<p>The Vortex Defender-CCW seemed to be fairly solid at the range, so I figured\u2026let\u2019s beat it up.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Drops, Falls, and Water<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>First, I slammed the front of the Defender-CCW into a table and a wall and my boot, Mad Max style. I did it over and over again and the lens remained in place. The optic didn\u2019t loosen at all. After some slamming, I did a few chest-high drops onto the range floor immediately after I got to the range and let the lead fly.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_538713\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-538713\" style=\"width: 696px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-538713 size-large\" alt=\"Vortex Defender-CCW red dot sight\" width=\"696\" height=\"524\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142921930-700x527.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142921930-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142921930-768x578.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142921930-1536x1157.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142921930-2048x1542.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142921930-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142921930-696x524.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142921930-1068x804.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142921930-1920x1446.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142921930-558x420.jpg 558w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142921930-80x60.jpg 80w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142921930-560x422.jpg 560w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142921930-700x527.jpg\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-538713 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142921930-700x527.jpg\" alt=\"Vortex Defender-CCW red dot sight\" width=\"696\" height=\"524\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142921930-700x527.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142921930-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142921930-768x578.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142921930-1536x1157.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142921930-2048x1542.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142921930-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142921930-696x524.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142921930-1068x804.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142921930-1920x1446.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142921930-558x420.jpg 558w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142921930-80x60.jpg 80w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142921930-560x422.jpg 560w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-538713\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">A textured front makes me wanna smash it. (Travis Pike for TTAG)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>There was no zero shift, and the optic still worked without issue. The Vortex Defender-CCW held up well. To test the waterproof nature of the optic, I sprayed it with a hose, and again, I had zero failures due to water.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_538708\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-538708\" style=\"width: 696px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-538708 size-large\" alt=\"Vortex Defender-CCW red dot sight\" width=\"696\" height=\"524\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142851365-700x527.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142851365-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142851365-768x578.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142851365-1536x1157.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142851365-2048x1542.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142851365-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142851365-696x524.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142851365-1068x804.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142851365-1920x1446.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142851365-558x420.jpg 558w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142851365-80x60.jpg 80w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142851365-560x422.jpg 560w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142851365-700x527.jpg\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-538708 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142851365-700x527.jpg\" alt=\"Vortex Defender-CCW red dot sight\" width=\"696\" height=\"524\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142851365-700x527.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142851365-300x226.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142851365-768x578.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142851365-1536x1157.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142851365-2048x1542.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142851365-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142851365-696x524.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142851365-1068x804.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142851365-1920x1446.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142851365-558x420.jpg 558w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142851365-80x60.jpg 80w, https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PXL_20230507_142851365-560x422.jpg 560w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\"\/><\/noscript><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-538708\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Smash, smash, smash. (Travis Pike for TTAG)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Given the bangs and knocks the Defender-CCW is likely to get mounted to an everyday carry pistol, that\u2019s good performance. For the relatively affordable price point, it seems more than durable enough for <a href=\"https:\/\/vortexoptics.com\/defender-ccw+reticle-3~MOA~Defender~Dot\">concealed carry<\/a> use.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Specifications: <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3qepBv6\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Vortex Defender-CCW Red Dot Sight<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Mount:<\/strong> Shield RMS\/RMSc<br \/><strong>Magnification:<\/strong> 1X<br \/><strong>Dot Size:<\/strong> 3 or 6 MOA<br \/><strong>Click Adjustments:<\/strong> 1 MOA<br \/><strong>Max Windage Adjustments:<\/strong> 105 MOA<br \/><strong>Max Elevation Adjustments:<\/strong> 110 MOA<br \/><strong>Length:<\/strong> 1.59\u2033<br \/><strong>Weight:<\/strong> .95 oz.<br \/><strong>MSRP:<\/strong> $349.99 (about <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3qepBv6\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">$250 retail<\/a>)<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Ratings (out of five stars)<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Clarity: * * *<\/strong><br \/>The dot is clear at the highest level, but not perfect at anything lower. There\u2019s a faint flicker and is lags when moved quickly. The lens has slightly blue tinge, but that\u2019s not a real problem.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Ergonomics: * * * *<\/strong><br \/>The Defender-CCW is small, lightweight, and easily to mount and use. The buttons are great, as is the battery placement. The super-light windage and elevation adjustments aren\u2019t ideal.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Reliability: * * * * *<\/strong><br \/>No complaints here. It takes a decent beating and functions well.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Overall: * * \u00bd<\/strong><br \/>The big issues here are the dot flicker and lag. The battery life is also notably low. The auto shut-off time and shake awake make no sense. Some strange choices were made in this sight\u2019s design process. The Defender-CCW isn\u2019t fancy or groundbreaking, but it\u2019s one of the better built models in the more affordable class of red dots on the market. For less than about $250, the Vortex Defender-CCW works, but it\u2019s not a standout at that price.<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><br \/>\n<br \/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thetruthaboutguns.com\/gear-review-vortex-defender-ccw-red-dot-sight\/\">Source link <\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Vortex is now in its third incarnation of a handgun optic. The first two are now rather old school in a modern pistol red dot world, and with their newest model, Vortex has made things a little more compact. The Vortex Defender-CCW red dot sight is their latest. It\u2019s a small pistol optic with some [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1200,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-1199","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-reviews"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/americangunpeople.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1199","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/americangunpeople.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/americangunpeople.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/americangunpeople.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/americangunpeople.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1199"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/americangunpeople.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1199\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/americangunpeople.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/1200"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/americangunpeople.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1199"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/americangunpeople.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1199"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/americangunpeople.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1199"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}