The Osite XR and XE are the most feature-packed reflex red dots on the market with pop-up rear iron sights, a user-selectable reticle with both 2 and 6 MOA dots, and a fully enclosed emitter housing. But this new XE model adds the most requested upgrade in an OSight optic: a side battery tray for easy coin battery replacement.
One of the most standout features is that the XE is an enclosed emitter red dot that is the same size as normal reflex RMRs. An enclosed emitter has a protective pane of glass that seals the primary reflective lens, keeping rain, mud, dust, or debris from fouling the critical surface. If the outer glass gets dirty, a quick wipe with a wet napkin — or spit and your thumb in a pinch — gets you back in the fight. This is a genuine game-changer for anyone running optics exposed to the elements on pistols, rifles, or shotguns.
The XE has the widest options of reticle I’ve seen: you can switch between a 2 MOA dot for precision shooting or a 6 MOA dot for faster acquisition in dynamic shooting. You also get a 32 MOA circle, circle-dot combinations for long range or easier recoil acquisition. This means the XE can adapt to your shooting style or use case, without buying a new optic.
The XE has a truly unique feature: press a button on the side and usable rear sights pop up. Don’t want them? Press them down, and they tuck away. Useful to have a choice, though the pop-up aspect is a bit of a gimmick.
The pop-up sights do bring up concerns about water ingress. But it is IPX7 rated. I tested this by dropping the XE into a pitcher of water and checking it after an hour. No water or fogging was visible in the enclosed housing after the test and the unit remained fully functional.
It’s no hyperbole to say the Osite XE is possibly the perfect pistol reflex sight for most users. It checks every box: the most common RMR footprint, unmatched reticle flexibility, backup iron sights, excellent durability, easy maintenance, and it’s priced about $150 less than many competitors. If you prefer a rechargeable option, check out the XR model.
SHOP
SPECS
XE
Magnification: 1x
Footprint: RMR
Reticle: 2 MOA dot, 6 MOA dot, 32 MOA circle
Window Size: 23 × 18 mm
Weight: 1.8 oz
Windage Travel: ± 45 MOA
Elevation Travel: ± 45 MOA
Click Value: 1 MOA
Battery: CR1632
Battery Life: Up to 105,000 hrs
Material: 7075-T6 aluminum
IPX: 7 waterproof