Vortex Optics is a well-established and highly respected brand in the world of firearm optics.
They are so good that the US military even contracted them to manufacture optics for the army, military, and special operations!
And, if the US military trusts Vortex sights, why shouldn’t you?
If you’re looking for one of the top red dot sights for your AR, I present to you this Vortex Sparc AR review.
Contents
Overview of the Vortex Optics Sparc AR Red Dot Sight
BUYING OPTIONS:
» Best Price on OpticsPlanet «
» Check Price on Cabelas «
» Check Price on Brownells «
» Check Price on Amazon «
The Vortex Sparc AR is an affordable and versatile red dot optic made specifically for the AR 15 platform.
However, I’ve also used it with any gun for CLOSE-QUARTER scenarios, such as the Tavor SAR or SCAR 17.
This sight can be used with BOTH eyes open, allowing me to maintain my peripheral vision.
As such, it’s great for both beginner and advanced shooters. I’d even recommend it as a beginner’s first AR 15 scope!
Specifications:
- Length: 2.9 in
- Weight: 7.5 oz
- Magnification: 1x
- Reticle: 2 MOA red dot
- Battery: Single AAA battery
- Night Vision: Yes
- Brightness Settings: 10
- Eye relief: Unlimited Eye Relief
- Objective Lens Diameter:22mm
- Adjustment Graduation: 1 MOA
- Maximum Elevation Adjustment: 90 MOA
- Maximum Windage Adjustment: 90 MOA
- Parallax-free
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Fast target acquisition
- Night vision compatible
- Phenomenal battery life
- Lifetime warranty & solid construction
- Unchangeable red dot
- Red dot may be too big for some people
Vortex Sparc AR Full Review
The Vortex Sparc AR is a true 1x red dot sight with an ideal range of up to 100 yards.
While it doesn’t have any magnification power due to its reticle and lens design, I still find it great for urban combat encounters.
Its unlimited eye relief is a huge bonus as well, as I can combine it with high-recoil weaponry AND still have my eye protected.
Overall Rating: 4.8 out of 5 Stars
Weight – 4/5
One thing that surprised me about the Vortex Optic Sparc AR Red Dot sight was its weight. It’s quite heavy despite its small size.
At only 2.9 inches long and 1.09 inches tall, it weighs 7.5 oz or 0.5 lbs. This weight may not seem like a lot, but it took me some getting used to.
On the upside, the weight of this sight makes it feel expensive despite its relatively affordable price.
Durability – 5/5
The Vortex Sparc AR red dot is made from a single lightweight piece of aircraft-grade aluminum with rubber armor and a hard anodized coating.
This matte finish coating helps to protect the optic from corrosive damage while also reducing surface glare.
Additionally, it is waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof!
You need not worry about any outside elements affecting performance, as O-ring seals prevent debris or moisture from entering the scope.
Whether I’m out in the hot sun, heavy rain, thick snow, or crossing rivers, the tiny little red dot can take all of it on like a champ!
Optics – 4/5
Vortex is known for its high-quality glass, and I can report that the Sparc AR is no exception.
Being fully multi-coated for increased light transmission, my images have been crystal clear every time!
Not to mention the wide field of view that lets me see everything!
However, one issue I had with this scope is that the adhesive leaked into the sight.