Vortex Optics has introduced a new, third model of the Defender family to the market. Defender-CCW and Defender-ST red dot sights have been joined by the Defender-XL. As the name suggests, it is the largest sights in the family. Apart from the enlarged aperture, the XL version is almost identical to its smaller brothers.
The red dot sights is mounted on a weapon with the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro standard mount. We can choose a version with a 5 MOA or 8 MOA dot, and each of them will offer a 12 brightness levels of the reticle. The device is powered by a standard CR2032 battery and, according to Vortex, at medium brightness setting, one battery should be enough for 25,000 hours (i.e. almost 3 years) of use. Additionally, to extend battery life, the sights turns off automatically after 10 minutes of inactivity and turns on automatically when motion is detected.
The aperturein the Defender XL has dimensions of approx. 25.5 mm x 23.5 mm and is made using the same technology as in other products from this series. The aluminum housing is intended to ensure durability and resistance to damage. The front surface of the sight has deep cuts to make it easier to cycle a weapon using clothing or a hand. The entire sight weighs less than 60 g
A big advantage that is slowly becoming a standard in the industry, but not all manufacturers have realized it yet, is that the battery can be replaced without removing the sight from the weapon.
Comparison of sizes of Defender-CCW, Defender-ST and Defender-XL sights
This is the set such a set that comes in the box.
At the manufacturer's website in the USA, the sight is priced at $599.99.
Source: Vortex
