Seasoned Contributor for Minuteman Review and teaches over 100 shooting classes a year.
Picking the right optic isn’t easy. There are features to consider.
Magnification power? Illumination? Reliability? And of course … Price.
For anyone looking for a low-light, close-range optic, a red dot is often the way to go. Red dots are simple, typically pretty reliable, and quick to get on target.
The only problem is, Red dot prices can get up there quick. Bushnell’s TRS 25 red dot provides a great alternative to its high-priced competition.
Keep reading for a closer look the Bushnell TRS 25 and why it might be right for you.
Bushnell TRS 25
PROS
CONS
For shooters on a budget, looking for a durable red dot that will get the job done, the TRS 25 is worth a look.
It may not have all the bells and whistles, but it’s reliable and functions well in low light. The Bushnell TRS 25 is also 100% waterproof, meaning you can safely carry into the most adverse conditions.
A Closer Look at the Bushnell TRS 25
We’ve all had the experience.
That all too often felt sense of having gotten what you paid for.
And sadly, that’s often the case with inexpensive products. Sometimes they just don’t hold up to their more expensive counterparts.
Thankfully, that’s not the case with Bushnell’s TRS 25. Before you write it off as just another cheap optic, here’s a look at what the TRS 25 does well--and a few things it doesn’t.
Features
Bushnell has been making high quality optics for over 60 years. Not limiting themselves to the firearms market, Bushnell also makes binoculars, outdoor cameras, and a range of other optics products.
So, even if the TRS 25 does come in at the lower end of the budget spectrum, it’s backed up by a long history of quality optics production.
Along with being produced by one of the best names in the industry, Bushnell’s TRS 25 is:
Easy on the wallet--even the most frugal shooters shouldn’t have a problem picking one up
Highly durable--this optic is completely water and weatherproof
Easy to power--accepts commonly available CR2032 battery
Compatible across platforms--works well with pistols, shotguns, modern sporting rifles, and everything in between
Available with riser--this makes the TRS 25 the perfect height for most AR-style rifles
TRS-25 Mounted | Photo by Bushnell
Specifications
Here are a few of the Bushnell TRS 25’s most vital specs:
- 1x 25mm power
- 3 MOA Red Dot
- Super light--less than 4 ounces
- Just 2.4 inches long with 1.1 inch mounting length
- 11 brightness settings
Ease of Use and Reliability
The great thing about the TRS 25 is how dead simple and reliable it is.
The compact, lightweight form factor keep it out of the way and the simple design ensure that it’s made for hard use.
As we saw above, this little Bushnell is 100% waterproof. But, it’s also fog proof and shock resistant--ensuring that it’s ready for the field or the range.
Front View | Photo by Bushnell
Battery Life
It accepts commonly available CR2032 battery and is able to run for 3,000 hours on medium settings.
Cost
Optics can get pricey quick.
While there are plenty of lower priced options, most are of questionable quality at best. The Bushnell TRS 25 fills the void by providing a quality optic at a great price.
One of the strongest selling points for the TRS 25 is the price. At under $100, it’s one of the most affordable red dots on the market.
Who is this Scope for?
Type of Shooter
At just 2.4 inches long and less than 4 ounces, the TRS 25 is also a good choice for anyone looking for a small, lightweight red dot.
Potential buyers will need to accept the somewhat limited nature of the TRS 25. But for those looking for a simple, affordable red dot, this Bushnell is definitely worth considering.
Type of Firearm
The Bushnell TRS 25 a great choice for shooters looking to round out their AR or shotgun with a reasonably priced optic.
The TRS 25’s durability and the quality buyers can expect from the Bushnell name, make it a good option for those looking for a mix of value and quality.
Our Take
For shooters looking for a budget red dot, it’s hard to go wrong with the TRS 25. This little optic has been around for some time now and has drawn great reviews.
With a durable, weatherproof build, the Bushnell TRS 25 provides solid performance in all kinds of conditions.
The biggest drawback to this red dot is its lack of features.
So, if you’re looking for the latest and greatest, or lots of flexibility, you probably won’t find it here.
Where the TRS 25 really shines is in its simple, reliable function. Not its dazzling features.
Other Options Worth Looking At
HOLOSUN HS403B
The lower end of the firearm optics market is flooded.
From simple, functional units like the TRS 25, to more complex optics--options are out there.
But the question is …
Are they reliable and functional?
Will they hold up to use at the range or in the field?
If you’re willing to step up in price slightly, the HOLOSUN HS403B Micro Red Dot Sight is another lower priced red dot that’s worth a look.
Similar in size and weight to Bushnell’s TRS 25, the HOLOSUN boasts a longer battery life and a slightly more precise 2 MOA. The HOLOSUN also has an auto-wake feature that turns the red dot on with movement.
But, for red dot buyers looking for a unit under $100, the Bushnell TRS 25 is still tough to beat.