Released in 2020, the Holosun 407c V2 red dot optic quickly became known as a workhorse in the world of handgun optics. I’ve had my 407c V2 since its debut, and it’s been mounted on more guns than I can count.
From training sessions to duty carry, this red dot has proven to be reliable, and easy to use. Despite all the use and abuse it has endured, the 407c V2 still works just as well as the day I first took it out of the box.
Back when it came out, I was skeptical about the solar failsafe feature. I’ll talk a little more about it later on, but the point is, it works. It stays zeroed in, ready to go, and the battery lasts forever. Ok, not forever, but a really long time.
Here’s a quick review of the 407c V2 and what you get for the money.
407c V2 — Built Like a Tank
The Holosun 407c V2 is built to withstand just about anything. Its durability is immediately apparent when you first handle it. Weighing in at just 1.5 ounces, it is lightweight yet feels solid, as if it could take a beating and keep on going.
It is designed primarily for handgun use, although it’s also a popular choice for rifles and shotguns. I have mounted mine on a few PCCs and my Mossberg 500 before.
It features a 2 MOA dot, which provides a fine aiming point that’s quick to acquire but precise enough for accurate shooting at a distance.
Battery
Unlike some red dots that require you to remove the optic from the firearm to change the battery, the 407c V2 has a side-loading battery compartment, which is a practical design choice. The optic is powered by a standard CR1632 battery, which is easy to find at just about any store.
Solar Power Capability
As I mentioned above, one thing I really like about the 407c V2 is its solar power capability. The solar panel on top works in tandem with the battery to keep the red dot illuminated. This isn’t a “normal” feature on most red dots, so you get something extra with the bargain.
Under sufficient ambient light, the solar panel can power the optic entirely, conserving battery life for when it’s needed most. When you start with a battery that will run for 50,000 hours already, adding the solar feature extends it even more.
If the battery does run low, the Solar Failsafe automatically adjusts the brightness of the reticle to ensure it’s always visible.
Holosun 407c V2 Specs:
- Dot Size: 2 MOA
- Reticle: Red Dot Only
- Battery Type: CR1632
- Battery Life: Up to 50,000 hours
- Solar Failsafe: Yes
- Brightness Settings: 12 (10 DL & 2 NV Compatible)
- Housing Material: 7075-T6 Aluminum
- Weight: 1.5 oz
- Waterproof: Yes, IP67 rated
- Mounting Footprint: Trijicon RMR footprint
Proven Durability
Most companies test the ruggedness and reliability of their products through internal testing and third-party reviews. But the ultimate test is how the product holds up over time in the real world.
I like getting my hands on new products and doing some tests with them. But when I need something I can count on, I revert back to older models that have “been there done that.”
This is one such optic. I’ve mounted it on multiple firearms, from full-sized duty pistols to compact carry guns, and it’s been through more than its fair share of challenges.
Over the past three years, the 407c V2 has seen it all. It’s been left in the car during the summer heat and the cold of winter. I’ve carried it on duty, and I’ve used it in various shooting events.
Through it all, the Holosun 407c V2 has never missed a beat. The reticle remains clear and bright, the zero stays true, and the optic continues to perform at a high level.
There are plenty of other good optics out there too, but this one has a proven track record, and that means more to me than controlled environment testing.
What Guns Work Best with the Holosun 407c V2?
If you’re looking for a new optic, you may be wondering what handguns pair well with the 407c V2. Because Holosun used the popular Trijicon RMR footprint, there are plenty of options. This footprint is one of the most widely adopted mounting patterns for handgun optics. The Trijicon RMR footprint is known for its stability and secure fit, which keeps the optic in place.
One of my favorite handguns to use with the 407c V2 is the Walther PDP Compact. The PDP’s optics-ready slide is designed to accommodate the Trijicon RMR footprint, and the 407c V2 mounts perfectly with it. The combination of the PDP’s ergonomics and the 407c V2’s crisp 2 MOA dot makes for a great setup.
If you’re looking for a holster that accommodates this setup, the Safariland 6354RDSO – ALS holster is a perfect option. It is specifically designed to fit the PDP compact with a standard-size red dot and the Nightstick TWM-30 light. The holster’s ALS (Automatic Locking System) keeps your firearm securely in the holster until you draw it.
Beyond the Walther PDP, the 407c V2 is also compatible with other popular handguns, including the Glock 19, Sig Sauer P320, and Smith & Wesson. The RMR footprint is among the most popular and the 407c V2 would work great with any of them.
Small but mighty
I’ve used the 407c V2 on my Mossberg 500 during clay pigeon shoots, and several sub-gun-sized PCCs. It has two small up/down buttons on the left side making it easy to adjust. The shake-a-wake feature makes sure it’s on when you pick it up. And again, between the long battery cycle and the added features, you won’t be changing the battery for years to come.
Built with 7075-T6 aluminum, the 407c V2 is tough enough to handle recoil from high-powered handguns, shotguns, and rifles. It’s also waterproof, which is another great feature. I’ve soaked it in water before and didn’t have any issues with it.
This is a workhorse of an optic and it’s built like a small army tank. If you’re in the market for a new handgun-mounted red dot, check out the Holosun 407c V2 red dot.
