I’ve had the Burris FastFire 3 mounted on my Glock 19 MOS for about two years now. It survived competition matches, boring range days, and one clumsy drop onto concrete. This budget red dot gets the job done without emptying your wallet.
The FastFire 3 works fine, but I’d spend the extra $35 on the Vortex Venom for better battery life and a larger window.
Here’s what you need to know before buying.
Table of Contents
How I tested the Burris FastFire 3
My test setup used three platforms: a Glock 19 Gen 5 MOS as the main host, a Mossberg 500 turkey gun with the Burris SpeedBead mount, and briefly a Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 on Picatinny.
Zeroing happened at 15 yards with Federal 124 grain FMJ. I fired three five round groups, made adjustments, then ran 500 rounds of mixed ammo without touching anything. Point of impact shifted roughly a quarter inch total, mostly in the first 200 rounds before the mounting screws fully settled.
| Test Category | Protocol |
|---|---|
| Zero Verification | Every 100 rounds at 15 yards |
| Drop Testing | 2 deliberate drops on concrete, 1 accidental on gravel |
| Environmental | Overnight at 18°F, heavy rain exposure, 30 min submersion |
| Battery Tracking | Auto mode and manual medium setting runtime |
Durability tests included deliberate concrete drops from waist height. The cold start test came after leaving the Glock in my truck overnight during a freeze. No fogging when I brought it inside to shoot.
For battery life, auto mode gave me around 1,800 hours. Manual mode at medium brightness stretched closer to 2,100 hours. Both match what Burris claims.
Optical comparisons involved shooting alongside a Trijicon RMR Type 2 and Holosun 507C on the same day, same lighting. This revealed the FastFire’s slight blue tint and starburst effect at max brightness.
Burris FastFire 3 Review
Burris FastFire 3 Product Specs
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 1x |
| Dot Size | 3 MOA or 8 MOA |
| Weight | 0.9 oz (25 grams) |
| Dimensions | 1.9″ x 1.0″ x 1.0″ |
| Battery | CR1632 3V Lithium |
| Battery Life | Up to 5,000 hours (medium setting) |
| Brightness Settings | 3 manual + 1 automatic |
| Adjustment Click Value | 1 MOA |
| Elevation Adjustment Range | 115 MOA |
| Windage Adjustment Range | 86 MOA |
| Operating Temperature | -10°F to +130°F |
| Waterproof | Yes, submersible |
| Construction | Steel body |
| Eye Relief | Unlimited |
| Window Size | 21mm x 15mm |
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Top-loading battery
- Auto brightness mode
- Lightweight construction
- Waterproof rated
- Holds zero well
Cons:
- Soft clicks
- Window collects debris
- Dot clarity average
- Battery life moderate
Burris FastFire 3 Data Range Analysis Test Results
| Test Parameter | Result |
|---|---|
| Zero Retention (500 rounds) | 0.25 MOA shift |
| Battery Life (Auto Mode) | 1,847 hours |
| Dot Visibility (Bright Sunlight) | 8/10 clarity |
| Adjustment Tracking Accuracy | 0.9 MOA per click actual |
| Waterproof Test (30 min submersion) | Passed, no fogging |
Testing conducted with 9mm 115-grain FMJ ammunition on a Glock 19 MOS platform. Temperature range during testing: 45°F to 95°F.
Accuracy
Took this out to the range on my Glock 19 with 200 rounds. The 3 MOA dot covers about 3 inches at 100 yards, which makes transitions between steel targets quick and easy.
My groups at 15 yards got noticeably tighter compared to iron sights. Punching the center of IPSC targets became routine. Even at 25 yards, hitting a 6 inch plate wasn’t a problem.
The windage and elevation adjustments track true at 1 MOA per click. Zeroed at 25 yards and it held through rapid fire drills.
Battery Life
The CR1632 battery swaps out without removing the optic. That matters when your dot dims mid range session and you don’t want to lose your zero.
My first battery lasted about six months on auto brightness. Somewhere around 1,800 hours of use, give or take. That’s okay, but the Holosun 507C pushes 50,000 hours with its solar backup. The comparison stings a little.
Cranking brightness to max eats through batteries faster. I learned to leave it on auto for most situations.
Durability
This sight has hit the ground twice. Once on concrete from waist height, once in gravel at a local USPSA match. Both times it fired right up with zero shift. The steel housing handles abuse better than aluminum builds.
Waterproofing checked out during an unexpected downpour at an outdoor shoot. No fogging inside. I also ran it under my faucet for a few minutes just to test the seals. Bone dry inside.
The open reflex design has a downside though. Rain and dirt land directly on the lens. I wiped it down multiple times during a muddy spring shoot. That’s the trade off with exposed emitters. The Vortex Venom has the same problem.
Ease of Use
Mounting took maybe five minutes with the included Picatinny base. Standard hex head screws, no weird tools required. They stayed tight through 500 rounds.
Auto brightness actually works well. Moving from indoor lanes to bright outdoor bays, the dot adjusted in a second or two. The three manual settings exist as backup if the sensor gets confused.
Zeroing was simple enough. The adjustment screws have okay tactile feedback, though the clicks could be more distinct. I counted 12 clicks to shift my point of impact 3 inches at 25 yards.
Optical Quality
Lens clarity is passable but not impressive. There’s a slight blue tint around the edges that became obvious when shooting next to my buddy’s RMR. Doesn’t really affect practical accuracy though.
The 3 MOA dot shows some starburst, especially at higher brightness. It’s not a perfect circle. More like a fuzzy dot with slight flaring. For defensive shooting or steel matches, this doesn’t bother me.
The 21mm x 15mm window provides a decent viewing area. Dot acquisition is quick with both eyes open. Parallax isn’t an issue at normal pistol distances.
Accessories
This sight comes bare bones. No fancy extras in the box. Grabbing a lens cover makes sense since the window sits exposed.
- OpticGard Scope Cover for FastFire 3: Shields your lens from brass casings and scratches, with an intelligent cut that works around most backup sights.
- Burris SpeedBead Mount: If you’re running this on a shotgun, this mount is purpose-built for the FastFire 3.
- Burris FastFire Picatinny/Weaver Mount (410335): The included mount in some packages lets you attach the sight to rifles, tactical shotguns, or handguns with Picatinny or Weaver rails.
By the Numbers
Accuracy
4/5
The 3 MOA dot is precise enough for defensive distances and the adjustments track reliably, though the clicks could be more defined for faster zeroing.
Battery Life
3/5Top-loading battery access is convenient but 1,800 hours on auto mode is middle of the pack compared to competitors offering significantly longer runtime.
Durability
4/5Steel construction survived concrete drops and water exposure without failure, though the open design lets debris collect on the lens more than enclosed sights.
Ease of Use
4/5Installation and zeroing are simple with intuitive controls, and auto-brightness works smoothly in varied lighting conditions.
Optical Quality
3/5Functional clarity with slight edge distortion and dot starburst on high settings—good enough for fast shooting but not top-tier glass.
Overall
3.6/5See how I test & rate in my reviews. Learn more >
Summary
The FastFire 3 works for shooters who want a functioning red dot without the price tag. I’ve used it on both my carry Glock and my competition setup. Nothing fancy, but it puts the dot where it needs to be.
Steel construction gives it an edge over cheaper plastic builds. The top loading battery design is genuinely useful since swapping cells doesn’t mess with your zero. Auto brightness performed better than expected, adjusting smoothly between indoor and outdoor environments.
The gripes are real though. Battery life falls short of competitors. The open lens collects every speck of dust and water droplet. Glass quality is average, nothing special.
But for a defensive pistol or weekend plinker, this thing delivers reasonable value. It held zero through everything I threw at it, and that matters more than fancy coatings.
How the Burris FastFire 3 Compares Against Others
| Features | Burris FastFire 3 | Vortex Venom | Holosun 507C X2 | Trijicon RMR Type 2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | ~$125 | ~$160 | ~$280 | ~$470 |
| Dot Size | 3 MOA or 8 MOA | 3 MOA or 6 MOA | 2 MOA dot + 32 MOA circle | 3.25 MOA |
| Weight | 0.9 oz | 1.1 oz | 1.5 oz | 1.2 oz |
| Battery Life | Up to 5,000 hours | Up to 30,000 hours | Up to 50,000 hours | Up to 4 years |
| Battery Type | CR1632 | CR1632 | CR1632 | CR2032 |
| Window Size | 21mm x 15mm | 23mm x 19mm | 23mm x 17mm | 22.7mm x 14mm |
| Housing | Steel, open emitter | Aluminum, open emitter | Aluminum, enclosed | Aluminum, enclosed |
| Adjustment | 1 MOA clicks | 1 MOA clicks | 1 MOA clicks | 1 MOA clicks |
| Brightness Settings | 3 manual + auto | 10 manual + auto | 12 settings + auto | 8 manual |
| Waterproof | Yes | Yes | IPX8 rated | IPX8 rated |
| Auto Shutoff | Yes | 14 hours | Shake awake | No |
| Solar Backup | No | No | Yes | No |
| Warranty | Forever Warranty | VIP Unlimited Lifetime | 5 years | Lifetime |
| Pros | Top-loading battery – Auto brightness mode – Lightweight construction – Holds zero well | Wider window – 30,000-hour battery – 10 brightness levels – Auto shutoff feature | 50,000-hour battery – Solar failsafe – Shake awake – Enclosed design | Bombproof durability – 4-year battery – Combat proven – Clearest glass |
| Cons | Soft clicks – Window collects debris – Dot clarity average – Battery life moderate | Heavier than FastFire – Open emitter design – Adjustment screws exposed | Heavier optic – Pricier than budget options – Button placement takes adjustment | Expensive price point – No auto brightness – Manual brightness only – Heaviest battery |
The FastFire 3 wins on price. It costs half what the Holosun runs and a quarter of the Trijicon. That savings comes with compromises though. Battery life and overall durability take the hit.
The Vortex Venom sits around the same price but brings a bigger window and 30,000 hour battery life. That alone makes the extra $35 worth it. Venom also offers 10 brightness levels versus the FastFire’s 3. Both have open emitters that attract debris, so it’s a wash there.
The Holosun 507C X2 gets interesting. Double the price buys you an enclosed emitter that keeps rain and mud off your dot, solar backup power, and shake awake technology. The 50,000 hour battery means you’ll forget batteries exist. If your gun sees hard use or duty work, this is the upgrade.
The Trijicon RMR Type 2 remains the standard. Four times the FastFire’s price, but built for people whose lives depend on their gear. Clearer glass, tougher housing, combat proven reliability. For a turkey gun or range pistol though, it’s probably more than needed.
To Summarize
The FastFire 3 holds up fine across different platforms. Steel construction is tougher than people expect, and the top loading battery keeps your zero intact when swapping cells. For the money, it works.
That said, the Vortex Venom is a better buy if you can swing an extra $35. Larger window, way better battery life, and more brightness options. Vortex’s unlimited lifetime warranty also beats what Burris offers. Both designs collect debris on the open lens, but the Venom’s extras make it the smarter choice in this price range.
If you’re willing to spend more, the Holosun 507C X2 makes sense. The enclosed emitter alone justifies the price bump. No more wiping rain off your lens between shots. Add the solar backup and 50,000 hour battery, and you’ve got an optic that might outlast your gun. It’s not twice as good as the FastFire, but the quality difference is noticeable.
For budget shooters, grab the Vortex Venom over the FastFire 3. It’s a better package for just a few dollars more.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Burris FastFire 3 fit Glock MOS slides?
Yes, it fits Glock MOS slides with an adapter plate. You’ll need either the Glock supplied plate or an aftermarket option from C&H Precision. The mounting footprint is Burris specific, so direct mounting without the right adapter won’t work. Some shooters have mentioned needing to file the plate slightly for a perfect fit.
How long does the battery last on the Burris FastFire 3?
Expect around 5,000 hours on medium manual brightness, or about 1,800 hours using auto mode. That’s a lot shorter than the Holosun 507C’s 50,000 hours. The upside is the top loading battery design lets you swap the CR1632 without removing the sight or losing zero.
Is the Burris FastFire 3 waterproof?
Yes. It’s rated waterproof and submersible. Mine survived heavy rain and brief submersion without fogging or failure. Electronics seal well enough for hunting in wet conditions. The catch is the open emitter design. Water and debris collect on the lens itself, so bring a cloth in bad weather.
What guns is the FastFire 3 compatible with?
Any firearm with a Picatinny rail or compatible mount system. I’ve seen it on Glock MOS pistols, optics ready guns from Smith & Wesson and Springfield, and shotguns using the Burris SpeedBead. Works on rifles and rimfires too, though the limited adjustment range might cause problems on longer barrels.
Can you co-witness iron sights with the FastFire 3?
Not really. The FastFire 3 sits too low for traditional co witness on most slides. It mounts directly to the slide or plate, placing the dot below standard iron sights. You’d need suppressor height sights for lower third co witness, and even then the short window makes it awkward.
Is the Burris FastFire 3 good for concealed carry?
It works for concealed carry with a holster cut for optics. At 0.9 ounces, it adds almost no weight. The open emitter means lint and pocket debris will build up on the lens, so clean it regularly. Auto brightness helps when drawing from concealment into different lighting.
Why should you trust me
I’m Richard Douglas, a firearms instructor and tactical advisor who has spent years testing optics in real conditions. I’ve worked as a National Defense Security Consultant and provided technical guidance to manufacturers like Bushnell, Leupold, and Sightmark.
My reviews have appeared in major firearm publications. I’ve personally tested hundreds of optics on everything from rimfire pistols to precision rifles. Scopes Field started after I wasted thousands on scopes that didn’t perform, so I learned what separates functional gear from overpriced junk.
I don’t accept paid reviews or advertising. Every optic gets mounted, zeroed, and run through live fire drills. I track zero retention, measure accuracy, and test durability through drops and environmental exposure. You’re getting my honest assessment based on trigger time, not marketing fluff.
I just ordered one according to the review. I can let you know. Thank you for what you do!!!!
I own 3 Burris red dots and have not experienced any problems since my first purchase many years ago. Florida humidity has not been an issue. Great red dot with great price.
This Sight is Awesome. The only drawback is battery installation. You can muck it up if you are not careful and if you force it you may be done cross threading is highly possible. I had to be very careful to get the threads to engage keeping the cap super flat but finally got it. Mounted it on a Henry Golden Boy 22. Super Fast acquisition on running game. I can see why they use a sight like this on driven hogs.
have mine mounted on a rossi R92 in 44mag. great little sight and i plan to add others for handguns. only problem i have, if it really is a problem, is its a bit difficult for my big fingers to turn the sight on/off and also cycle brightness. just would have liked a more protruding on/off switch. I still love it!
Agree with Bill switch. Overall very happy sighting is easy.
kimber said it wont work on camp guard 10
Put one on RIA 1911 10mm on a dovetail mount A bit of a learning curve for sight acquisition but my groups were cut in half. It’s also great for tired old eyes. Sitting on the slide of a 10mm it takes a pounding but hasn’t budged or lost zero. It’s as good or better than anything out there at an unbeatable price and the best warranty out there.
My question. How long is the picatinny rail that is sold with this sight. I want to put on my 3″ Stoeger 3020 20ga. They say there isn’t a lot of metal in the area to mount the rail. But I did watch a video of this gun with this sight mounted as far back on the receiver as they could get it and worked out very well. But the picatinny rail was no longer than the Burris Fast Flite III itself. So a short rail like that has to have two screws to hold it on. Please can you help, Henry
hard to turn it on it needs a bigger switch
How do you keep the Burris Red Dot. Fast Fire III Protective cover from recoil shaking it loose and interfering when shooting. I consider taping a screw glue my 92x has a tony plate in rear sight looks much better with cover on it but when I used to shoot it the see thru cover works it’s self loose and interfering with sight picture.
can’t override the auto shut off , useless if your in a rush