Open vs. Enclosed Emitter Optics: Understanding the Differences
Open vs. Enclosed Emitter Optics: Understanding the Differences
Not all red dots are created equal, and a fundamental distinction lies in their design: open emitter versus enclosed emitter systems. Understanding these differences is crucial for selecting the right optic for your specific needs and operational environment.
The Fundamental Mechanism: How Red Dots Work
Both open and enclosed emitter red dot sights operate on the same basic principle: an LED projects a reticle onto a specially coated lens. This creates the illusion of a red dot floating on your target, allowing for quick and intuitive aiming with both eyes open. The divergence in design, however, stems from how this LED emitter is housed and protected.
Open Emitter Red Dot Sights:
Open emitter sights are characterized by their exposed LED emitter, which projects the reticle onto a single front lens. This design is frequently seen in compact red dots, particularly those favored for pistol applications.
Advantages of Open Emitter Sights:
• Wider Field of View: The minimalist construction of open emitters typically provides a less obstructed sight picture. This can slightly enhance situational awareness and facilitate faster target acquisition, especially in dynamic shooting scenarios.
• Lighter and More Compact: With fewer components and a more streamlined profile, open emitter sights are generally lighter and more compact. This makes them an attractive option for concealed carry firearms where minimizing bulk and weight is a priority.
• Cost-Effective: Due to their simpler manufacturing process, open emitter red dots are often more affordable, offering an accessible entry point into the world of red dot optics.
Disadvantages of Open Emitter Sights:
• Vulnerability to Environmental Factors: The primary drawback of the open design is the exposed emitter. Dust, dirt, rain, snow, or even lint can easily accumulate on or around the emitter, potentially obscuring or distorting the reticle. This can compromise the sight's functionality in adverse conditions.
• Reduced Durability: While many modern open emitter sights are built to be robust, their inherent design makes them more susceptible to impact damage compared to their enclosed counterparts. A direct hit to the exposed emitter could render the optic inoperable.
• Increased Maintenance: To ensure optimal performance, open emitter sights may require more frequent and meticulous cleaning to remove debris from the emitter area.
Enclosed Emitter Red Dot Sights: Robust and Resilient
Enclosed emitter sights encase the LED emitter within a fully sealed housing, typically positioned between two lenses. This creates a tube-like structure that offers comprehensive protection to the internal components.
Advantages of Enclosed Emitter Sights:
• Superior Durability and Reliability: The fully enclosed design provides exceptional protection against environmental elements such as moisture, dust, and debris. This ensures consistent reticle visibility and reliable performance even in the most challenging weather conditions or harsh tactical environments.
• Enhanced Impact Resistance: The robust housing of enclosed emitter sights offers greater resistance to physical impacts and shocks, making them a more durable choice for demanding applications.
• Easier Field Cleaning: Should the outer lenses become dirty, they can be quickly wiped clean without concern for affecting the internal emitter, simplifying maintenance in the field.
Disadvantages of Enclosed Emitter Sights:
• Potentially Narrower Field of View: The tube-like body of enclosed emitter sights can sometimes create a more confined sight picture, which some users describe as a
"tunnel effect." While still highly effective, it can feel less expansive than an open emitter.
• Higher Cost: The more complex construction and additional materials typically result in a higher price point for enclosed emitter red dots.
Making the Right Choice
Choosing between an open and enclosed emitter red dot sight ultimately comes down to your primary use case and priorities. Consider the following:
• For Concealed Carry & Recreational Use: If you prioritize a compact, lightweight setup for everyday carry or enjoy recreational shooting at the range where environmental factors are less of a concern, an open emitter sight can be an excellent and cost-effective choice. The smaller size and wider field of view can be highly advantageous.
• For Duty, Tactical, & Harsh Environments: When reliability in extreme conditions is non-negotiable, an enclosed emitter sight offers superior protection and peace of mind. Its robust design ensures your reticle remains clear and functional.
At Edison Tactical, we are committed to providing 100% American-made tactical gear that meets the highest standards of performance and durability. We have multiple innovative products currently in development designed to push the boundaries of reliability and function. Our upcoming lineup includes next-generation red dot sights and prism scopes, as well as high-performance magazines, charging handles, and holsters. We are also engineering new solutions for grips, stocks, lights, lasers, and other essential tactical accessories.
We encourage you to evaluate your specific needs and choose the gear that will best serve you in the field. Stay tuned to our Tactical Info blog for more insights, and keep an eye out for our upcoming product launches as we continue to innovate for the modern shooter.