With rapid-acquisition sighting systems steadily gaining favor in both military and sporting circles, the interest in such products is growing exponentially. The Z-Point Red-Dot Reflex Sight (5216989901) represents not only that highly respected manufacturer's entry into that market, but also a unique and interesting approach to the product category. The sight, originally developed for the German military, is used as an optional sighting system for the H&K MP7 PDW. The Reflex sights were designed by Hensoldt, which is owned by Carl Zeiss Optical, Inc.
This model is a non-magnifying reflex sight that does not use holographic technology nor emit a beam. The diode that produces the "red dot" is located in the unit's rear glass pane. The sight has a polymer housing with an integrated tube body of high-strength aluminum that makes for a lightweight and impact-resistant sight—as well as one that is extremely compact. The optic weighs a mere 3 1/2 ozs. and measures a scant 2 1/2" long, 1 3/4" high and 1 1/2" wide.
One innovative technical aspect of this sight is the illumination system. It utilizes a hybrid power supply that operates from both a solar cell and a conventional lithium battery, and it features an illumination regulation system that automatically adjusts the brightness of the dot. Depending on how much light is available, the built-in sensor—located in the solar panel—determines whether the sight should draw current from the battery or from the solar cell.
If the red-dot reflex sight is pointed at a bright background the dot becomes instantly brighter; if pointed at a dark background it becomes instantly dimmer. The brightness of the red dot can also be adjusted manually, but then no longer automatically adjusts until the reflex sight is reset by being restarted. Also, the red dot switches off automatically after three hours of disuse.
This sight now come in two variations - with a Picatinny Mount (model 5216989901) and a Weaver Mount (model 5216989902). It can be mounted onto a Picatinny or Weaver Rail using a spring clamp. It is recoil-proof, shock-resistant, vibration-resistant and waterproof – sealing test as per ISO 9022-8. Its casing consists of glass fiber-reinforced material with an integrated tube body of high-strength aluminum. Suitable for rifle or pistol applications.
This sight is designed to easily snap on and off any standard Picatinny rail by way of a single, spring-loaded, push-button clamp that "rocks" over the rail. The push pad on the side of the sight acts as both the on/off switch and the dot intensity regulator. One button press turns the red dot sight on, another press and hold turns the unit off. A double press and hold increases the red-dot's brightness and a triple press and hold decreases the red dot's brightness.
For testing we mounted this model on a flat-top DPMS A-15 rifle. The optic attached easily and proved simple to use. Also, the illumination regulation system worked effectively in both bright and dark surroundings. For adjustments to point of aim/impact, the Reflex sights utilize simple set screws, which fix the windage and elevation changes. Audible or mechanical clicks are not part of the design.
As Zeiss claims that the sight is waterproof, we immersed it in 110 degree water for 10 minutes and then placed it in a freezer for 10 more. There was no leakage, bubbling or -fogging.
This sight is small, light and incredibly simple to use.