This article takes a close look at Holosun’s latest update to two of the most popular pistol-mounted red dot sights: the 407C and 507C.
With the new X3 generation, Holosun didn’t overhaul the design. Instead, they focused on small but meaningful improvements—modernizing the housing, boosting optical clarity, and dialing in better light-sensing performance.
Evolution of a Proven Pistol Optic Platform
For over a decade now, micro red dot sights have changed handgun shooting for military, law enforcement, competition, and regular folks alike.
The 407C and 507C models have really made a mark, thanks to their solid build, good features, and fair pricing.
The X3 generation builds on that foundation. Holosun prioritized practical upgrades—think consistency, reliability, and better visuals in real-world use—over flashier changes.
Modernized Housing and Optical Window
The 407C-X3 and 507C-X3 still use the familiar 0.91 × 0.67-inch window and the standard RMR footprint. That means you can use them with tons of pistols, slides, and holsters.
The housing is made from 7075-T6 aluminum, which is strong but light, and it holds up well under stress.
Holosun tweaked the lens geometry and how the window sits. These changes help you get a clearer view from edge to edge and make it easier to find the reticle fast—especially when you’re drawing or under time pressure.
Reticle Options Tailored to Shooter Preference
The main difference between the two models is the reticle setup. Holosun gets that shooters have different needs, whether it’s about use case, training, or eyesight.
407C-X3: Precision Through Simplicity
The 407C-X3 keeps things simple for folks who want a clean sight picture. It comes with just a single 2 MOA dot.
This setup is great for precision and for those who don’t want extra clutter in their view.
507C-X3: Versatility with the Multi-Reticle System
The 507C-X3 sticks with Holosun’s Multi-Reticle System. You can switch between:
This flexibility is handy if you switch between competition, duty, or defensive use, or if you want to pick up the sight quickly at close range while still keeping your options open for distance shots.
Improved Light Management and Power Efficiency
The X3 series moves the forward-facing photodiode to a better spot. That means the optic reacts more accurately to changing light, so you’re less likely to get a reticle that’s too bright or too dim.
Battery, Solar Support, and Always-Ready Features
Both optics use a side-loading CR1632 battery. You don’t have to pull the optic off to swap the battery, so you keep your zero intact.
Depending on how you set the reticle and brightness, you can get up to 50,000 hours of runtime.
The 507C-X3 also features Solar Failsafe tech, so it’ll keep working even if the battery dies.
Both models have Shake Awake with reticle memory. Move the pistol and the sight wakes up instantly, bringing back your last settings, which is especially important for concealed carry or duty guns.
Refinement Over Reinvention
Looking at it from a scientific and engineering angle, the X3 updates show a product that’s really settled into its own. Holosun puts their energy into durability, optical consistency, and how the optic handles the environment, instead of chasing flashy redesigns.
The 407C-X3 and 507C-X3 are more like smart tweaks to already reliable pistol optics. If you shoot in different lighting or rough conditions, these updates just make it easier to trust your gear, pick up your sights quickly, and count on solid performance when you need it most.
Here is the source article for this story: A Reimagined Core for Duty and Carry Optics: The Holosun 407C-X3 & 507C-X3 – The Outdoor Wire