Introduction
Are you in the market for a red dot sight but torn between Burris Fastfire 3 and Vortex Venom? Well, look no further! In this blog post, we will dive into the nitty-gritty details of these two popular optics to help you make an informed decision. So, grab your coffee, sit back, and let’s explore the world of red dot sights together!
Overview of Burris Fastfire 3
The Burris Fastfire 3 is a popular red dot sight known for its fast target acquisition and precision. It features a 3-MOA red dot reticle that allows for quick and accurate aiming, ideal for both beginners and experienced shooters alike. With its compact design, the Fastfire 3 is lightweight and easy to mount on various firearms without adding unnecessary bulk.
One of the standout features of the Burris Fastfire 3 is its adjustable brightness settings, providing optimal visibility in any lighting conditions. The top-loading battery access makes it convenient to replace batteries without having to remove the sight from your firearm. Additionally, the Fastfire 3 boasts a rugged construction that can withstand recoil and harsh weather conditions.
The Burris Fastfire 3 offers reliable performance and ease of use for shooters looking to enhance their accuracy on the range or in competition.
Specification
The Burris Fastfire 3 is equipped with a 3-MOA red dot reticle, offering fast target acquisition and accuracy. It has a parallax-free design that ensures consistent performance at various distances. The Fastfire 3 features three brightness settings to adapt to different lighting conditions, making it versatile for both indoor and outdoor use.
On the other hand, the Vortex Venom boasts a 6-MOA red dot reticle for quick and easy target acquisition. It also offers ten brightness levels, giving shooters more options to customize their sight picture according to ambient light. The Venom is designed with fully multi-coated lenses for enhanced clarity and anti-reflective properties, ensuring a clear view of the target.
Both sights are compact and lightweight, suitable for mounting on pistols or rifles without adding unnecessary bulk. When it comes to specifications, choosing between the Burris Fastfire 3 and Vortex Venom will ultimately depend on your specific shooting needs and preferences.
Overview of Vortex Venom
The Vortex Venom is a popular red dot sight known for its precise aiming and quick target acquisition. With a sleek design and durable construction, it’s favored by many shooters for its reliability in various shooting conditions.
This optic features a 3 MOA red dot reticle that provides a clear point of aim for improved accuracy. The fully multi-coated lens ensures maximum light transmission, resulting in a bright and crisp sight picture.
Equipped with top-mounted controls for easy access to brightness settings, the Vortex Venom offers ten levels of illumination to suit different lighting conditions. Its auto-brightness mode adjusts the dot intensity based on ambient light.
With a lightweight aluminum housing and O-ring seals, the Vortex Venom is both rugged and waterproof. It can withstand recoil and harsh weather elements, making it ideal for hunting or tactical applications.
Specification
When considering the specifications of the Burris Fastfire 3, it’s important to note its compact size and lightweight design. The Fastfire 3 weighs just under an ounce, making it easy to mount on various firearms without adding unnecessary bulk.
In terms of dimensions, the Fastfire 3 measures approximately 1.8 inches in length and 1 inch in width, ensuring a sleek profile when attached to your weapon. Its durable construction is also worth mentioning, as it can withstand recoil and harsh conditions.
On the other hand, the Vortex Venom boasts similar specifications with a weight of around 1.1 ounces and slightly larger dimensions compared to the Fastfire 3. Despite this slight difference, both red dot sights offer high-quality performance for shooters looking for reliability and precision in their optics choice.
Understanding the specifications of each optic will help you determine which one best suits your shooting needs based on factors such as size, weight, and durability.
What’s The Difference: Fastfire 3 Vs Venom?
When it comes to comparing the Burris Fastfire 3 and the Vortex Venom, there are several key differences that set these two red dot sights apart.
1. Manufacturer
When it comes to the Burris Fastfire 3 and Vortex Venom red dot sights, one key difference lies in the manufacturer. The Burris Fastfire 3 is manufactured by Burris Optics, a company known for its reliable and high-quality optics products. With over 40 years of experience in the industry, Burris has built a reputation for producing innovative and durable optical solutions for hunters, competitive shooters, and law enforcement professionals.
On the other hand, Vortex Venom is produced by Vortex Optics, another reputable brand that specializes in manufacturing a wide range of optical equipment including riflescopes, binoculars, and red dot sights. Vortex Optics prides itself on offering top-notch customer service and lifetime warranties on their products.
Both manufacturers have established themselves as leaders in the optics industry with dedicated customer bases who appreciate their commitment to quality and performance.
2. Brightness Settings
When it comes to brightness settings, both the Burris Fastfire 3 and the Vortex Venom offer customization options to suit different lighting conditions.
The Burris Fastfire 3 features three manual brightness settings along with an automatic setting, allowing you to easily adjust for optimal visibility in any environment.
On the other hand, the Vortex Venom provides ten brightness levels that can be adjusted manually, giving you more control over your sight picture.
Having multiple brightness settings gives shooters flexibility to adapt their red dot sight based on varying light conditions, ensuring a clear and precise aiming point every time.
Whether you prefer fewer but versatile options or more precise control over brightness levels, both the Fastfire 3 and Venom have you covered in this aspect of performance.
3. Battery Life
When it comes to comparing the Burris Fastfire 3 and Vortex Venom red dot sights, one important factor to consider is the battery life.
The Burris Fastfire 3 boasts an impressive battery life of up to 5 years on a single CR1632 battery. This means less hassle of constantly changing batteries during extended use, providing peace of mind when out in the field or at the range.
On the other hand, the Vortex Venom offers a slightly shorter battery life compared to the Fastfire 3. With approximately 150 hours of runtime at maximum brightness setting and up to 30,000 hours at lower settings, users may need to replace batteries more frequently depending on usage frequency.
Having a longer battery life can be beneficial for those who rely heavily on their red dot sight for consistent performance without interruptions. It’s crucial to consider your shooting habits and how often you’ll be using your optic when deciding between these two models.
4. Weight
When it comes to comparing the weight of the Burris Fastfire 3 and Vortex Venom, there are some noticeable differences between the two red dot sights. The Burris Fastfire 3 weighs in at around 1.5 ounces, making it a lightweight option for those looking to minimize added bulk on their firearm. On the other hand, the Vortex Venom comes in slightly heavier at approximately 1.6 ounces.
While this may seem like a minimal difference, every ounce counts when it comes to your gear setup and overall shooting experience. The lightweight design of the Burris Fastfire 3 can provide a slight advantage in terms of ease of handling and maneuverability during extended shooting sessions or competitions.
Choosing between these two red dot sights will come down to personal preference and how much importance you place on weight when selecting your optic. Both options offer quality performance, so consider factors beyond just weight when making your decision!
Aspect Comparison
When comparing the Burris Fastfire 3 and Vortex Venom, several aspects come into play. Let’s explore them:
1. Durability
When it comes to durability, both the Burris Fastfire 3 and Vortex Venom are built to withstand rugged use in various shooting conditions. The Fastfire 3 features a rugged aluminum housing that protects it from impacts and recoil, ensuring long-lasting performance. On the other hand, the Vortex Venom is also constructed with a durable aluminum housing that can endure heavy-duty use.
Both optics are O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged, making them waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof. This means they can handle moisture, dust, and rough handling without compromising their functionality. Whether you’re out hunting in challenging weather or practicing at the range in harsh environments, these red dot sights will continue to deliver reliable performance shot after shot.
In terms of durability, both the Burris Fastfire 3 and Vortex Venom are solid options for shooters looking for a dependable optic that can keep up with their adventures.
2. Reticle
When it comes to the reticle, both the Burris Fastfire 3 and Vortex Venom offer different options to cater to your shooting preferences. The Burris Fastfire 3 features a 3 MOA dot reticle that provides a precise aiming point for quick target acquisition. On the other hand, the Vortex Venom offers a 6 MOA dot reticle which is larger and easier to see for rapid target engagement at close range.
The smaller 3 MOA dot on the Burris Fastfire 3 allows for more precision when shooting at longer distances, making it ideal for shooters who require pinpoint accuracy. Conversely, the larger 6 MOA dot on the Vortex Venom is better suited for fast-paced shooting scenarios where speed is crucial.
Your choice between these two red dots will depend on your personal preference and shooting style.
3. Size and Weight
When comparing the Burris Fastfire 3 and the Vortex Venom, size and weight play a crucial role in determining which red dot sight is more suitable for your needs.
The Burris Fastfire 3 weighs in at around 1.5 ounces, making it lightweight and easy to mount on various firearms without adding unnecessary bulk. Its compact design ensures that it won’t throw off the balance of your weapon.
On the other hand, the Vortex Venom is slightly heavier at approximately 1.6 ounces. While this difference may seem negligible, every ounce matters when it comes to handling your firearm comfortably for extended periods.
Both sights are designed to be sleek and low-profile, allowing for quick target acquisition without obstructing your view or adding excessive weight to your firearm setup. Choosing between them will depend on how much importance you place on weight and size when selecting a red dot sight for your shooting needs.
4. Lens and Glass Clarity
When it comes to lens and glass clarity, both the Burris Fastfire 3 and Vortex Venom offer exceptional quality. The Fastfire 3 features high-grade optical lenses that provide a clear and sharp image of your target. On the other hand, the Vortex Venom is equipped with premium quality glass that ensures optimal light transmission for a bright sight picture.
The lenses on both sights are multi-coated to reduce glare and reflections, allowing for better visibility in various lighting conditions. This feature is especially useful when shooting in bright sunlight or low-light situations. Additionally, the glass clarity on both sights remains consistent even at higher magnification levels, ensuring accuracy and precision in every shot.
Whether you choose the Burris Fastfire 3 or Vortex Venom, you can expect top-notch lens and glass clarity that enhances your shooting experience.
5. Power Source
When it comes to the power source, both the Burris Fastfire 3 and Vortex Venom rely on a single CR1632 battery to operate. This ensures convenient and easy access to a common battery type that can be found in most stores. The usage of a single battery makes it simple for users to replace when needed without any hassle.
The power efficiency of these red dot sights is crucial for long-lasting performance during shooting sessions. With a reliable power source, you can focus on your target without worrying about sudden shutdowns or disruptions. Both the Fastfire 3 and Venom are designed to optimize battery life, ensuring extended use before needing a replacement.
Whether you prefer the Burris Fastfire 3 or Vortex Venom, rest assured that they both offer efficient power consumption with their CR1632 batteries. Enjoy uninterrupted shooting experiences with these red dot sights powered by dependable energy sources.
6. Brightness Setting
When it comes to brightness settings, both the Burris Fastfire 3 and Vortex Venom offer a range of options to cater to different lighting conditions.
The Burris Fastfire 3 features three manual brightness settings along with an automatic setting that adjusts based on ambient light, providing flexibility for all situations. On the other hand, the Vortex Venom offers ten brightness levels which allow for more precise adjustments depending on your preferences.
Having multiple brightness options is essential for ensuring optimal visibility and accuracy when using a red dot sight. Whether you’re shooting in bright daylight or low-light conditions, having the ability to adjust the brightness settings can make a significant difference in performance.
Choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and specific shooting requirements. It’s important to test out both models in various lighting conditions to determine which one best suits your needs.
7. Mounting Options
When it comes to mounting options, both the Burris Fastfire 3 and Vortex Venom offer versatile solutions for attaching the red dot sight to your firearm.
The Fastfire 3 is compatible with a wide range of mounting systems, allowing for easy customization based on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prefer a low-profile mount or a riser for co-witnessing with iron sights, the Fastfire 3 has you covered.
On the other hand, the Vortex Venom also offers various mounting options to ensure compatibility with different firearms. From pistol slides to rifle rails, you can easily find the right mounting solution for your setup.
Both red dot sights provide flexibility when it comes to mounting options, giving shooters the freedom to tailor their setup according to their shooting style and requirements.
8. Price
When comparing the Burris Fastfire 3 and Vortex Venom, one important factor to consider is the price point. The Burris Fastfire 3 typically falls in a slightly lower price range compared to the Vortex Venom. This might make it an attractive option for those looking for a quality red dot sight without breaking the bank.
On the other hand, the Vortex Venom tends to be priced slightly higher due to some additional features and functionalities it offers. While it may come with a bit of a premium price tag, users often find that they are getting great value for their money with the Vortex Venom.
When deciding between these two red dot sights based on price alone, you’ll need to weigh your budget against what each model has to offer in terms of performance and features. It’s essential to consider not just the upfront cost but also the long-term value and satisfaction you’ll get from your investment in either the Burris Fastfire 3 or Vortex Venom.
Pros & cons of Burris Fastfire 3
Pros:
- One of the standout features of the Burris Fastfire 3 is its compact and lightweight design, making it easy to mount on various firearms without adding unnecessary bulk or weight.
- The sleek profile of the Fastfire 3 ensures that it won’t obstruct your view or add extra strain during extended shooting sessions.
- This red dot sight offers a wide range of brightness settings, allowing you to adjust according to different lighting conditions for optimal visibility.
- The automatic brightness sensor is a convenient feature that adapts to ambient light levels seamlessly.
Cons:
- On the downside, some users have reported issues with battery life on the Burris Fastfire 3, requiring frequent replacements or recharges.
- This can be a drawback for those who rely heavily on their optics for consistent performance in the field.
Pros & cons of Vortex Venom
Pros:
- When it comes to the Vortex Venom, one of its standout pros is its sleek design.
- It’s compact and lightweight, making it easy to mount on your firearm without adding unnecessary bulk.
- The large window provides a wide field of view, allowing for quick target acquisition.
- Another advantage of the Vortex Venom is its brightness settings.
- With ten levels to choose from, you can easily adjust the reticle intensity based on your environment and lighting conditions.
- This versatility ensures optimal visibility in any shooting scenario.
Cons:
- Some users have reported issues with battery life.
- While the Venom does offer an auto-shutdown feature to conserve power, frequent battery changes may be necessary for heavy usage.
FAQs
Q: Can the Burris Fastfire 3 and Vortex Venom be submerged in water?
Both red dot sights are waterproof, allowing you to confidently use them in various weather conditions without worrying about damage.
Q: Are there different reticle options available for these sights?
The Burris Fastfire 3 offers a single reticle option, while the Vortex Venom provides users with a choice between a 3 MOA and 6 MOA dot for increased customization.
Q: Which sight has better battery life?
The Vortex Venom boasts an impressive battery life of up to 150 hours at the highest setting, surpassing the Burris Fastfire 3’s battery life of around 5 years on medium brightness.
Q: Can these red dot sights be mounted on different firearms?
Both models offer versatile mounting options, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of firearms for added convenience and flexibility.
Q: What is the price difference between the Burris Fastfire 3 and Vortex Venom?
While both red dot sights offer excellent performance, the Burris Fastfire 3 tends to be slightly more budget-friendly compared to the Vortex Venom.
Conclusion
Both the Burris Fastfire 3 and Vortex Venom are excellent red dot sights that offer high performance and reliability for shooters. The choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences and specific needs. Whether you prioritize brightness settings, battery life, weight, or other factors, both options have their own strengths.
Before making a decision, consider what features are most important to you and how each sight aligns with your shooting style. Both the Burris Fastfire 3 and Vortex Venom have proven track records in the shooting community and will not disappoint in terms of quality and functionality.
Whichever option you choose, rest assured that you’ll be getting a top-notch red dot sight to enhance your shooting experience.
