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Aimpoint

Aimpoint Duty RDS

Value-oriented red dot with Aimpoint reliability and 30,000 hour battery

Quick Specs

Price
$499
Weight
3.8 oz
Brand
Aimpoint
Category
optic

Features

  • 2 MOA dot
  • 30,000 hour battery
  • Night vision compatible
  • Waterproof to 25m

Capability Boosts

CQB+2
Low Light+2
Night Vision+1
Reliability+1

Compatibility Tags

interface: picatinny-topsuitable-for: ultra-compact

Overview

The Aimpoint Duty RDS represents Aimpoint's commitment to delivering professional-grade optics at a more accessible price point, announced at SHOT Show 2023 as a response to demand for reliable red dots that don't require four-figure budgets. Selected by the FBI as their official red dot optic, the Duty RDS maintains Aimpoint's legendary durability and optical quality while trimming features that professional users don't require—resulting in approximately $300 savings compared to the Micro T-2.

Built with the same pressure-forged aluminum housing as premium Aimpoint models, the Duty RDS survives impacts, extreme temperatures (-49°F to 160°F), and submersion to 80 feet without losing zero. The ACET technology delivers 30,000 hours of continuous operation on a single CR2032 battery—over 3 years of always-on readiness. The 2 MOA dot provides the precision-speed balance that professionals demand, visible across 12 brightness settings including 4 night vision compatible levels.

Sharing the same Aimpoint Micro T-1/T-2 footprint, the Duty RDS mounts directly to any existing Micro mount without adapters. The glass quality matches or exceeds the T-2, with many users reporting clearer glass without the slight blue tint present in some T-2 units. Digital rocker-style brightness controls replace the traditional dial, providing positive adjustments even with gloves. For departments and individuals seeking proven Aimpoint reliability without premium pricing, the Duty RDS delivers FBI-validated performance.

Key Features

  • FBI-selected optic validates professional-grade performance
  • 30,000 hour battery life (3+ years continuous operation)
  • Pressure-forged aluminum housing survives extreme abuse
  • Submersible to 80 feet (25 meters)
  • 12 brightness settings including 4 NVD-compatible levels
  • Aimpoint Micro T-1/T-2 compatible footprint
  • Glass quality matches or exceeds T-2 clarity

Pros

  • +FBI selection validates reliability for professional duty use
  • +30,000 hour battery life provides multi-year always-on operation
  • +Glass clarity rivals T-2 with less color tint in some samples
  • +Approximately $300 less than Micro T-2 at comparable performance
  • +Proven Aimpoint durability in pressure-forged housing

Cons

  • Digital rocker buttons less intuitive than traditional dials
  • Small buttons challenging with heavy gloves
  • Fewer NVD settings than T-2 (4 vs 4, but different spread)
  • Front lens cover not shoot-through unlike some competitors

Detailed Specifications

Reticle
2 MOA red dot
Magnification
1x
Battery Type
CR2032
Battery Life
30,000 hours (setting 7)
nightVisionCompatible
Yes (4 NVD settings)
Waterproof Rating
80 feet / 25 meters
weight
3.9 oz (sight only)
Length
2.4 inches
Adjustment Type
MOA adjustments
operatingTemp
-49°F to 160°F
shockRating
Aimpoint standard durability
Material
Pressure-forged aluminum alloy

Compatible Platforms

+18 more

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