Monstrum Blackbird 3x30mm Prismatic Red Dot Sight Review

Exploring the Monstrum Blackbird 3x30mm Prismatic Red Dot Sight: My Review

The Monstrum Blackbird 3x30mm Prismatic Red Dot Sight aims to offer a compact, magnified optic solution without breaking the bank. From Monstrum, it boasts a fixed 3x magnification, a prism-based optical system, and an illuminated circle-dot reticle. It is intended for rapid target acquisition at moderate distances, and I was particularly drawn to its purported clarity and rugged construction.

I needed a reliable optic for my AR-15 that offered more precision than a standard red dot but was less bulky than a traditional scope. I wanted something I could use effectively for both range practice and potentially for hog hunting in dense brush. The promise of better optical quality in a smaller package, thanks to the prism system, piqued my interest, and the price point was hard to ignore.

My first impression upon unboxing the Monstrum Blackbird was that it felt surprisingly solid. The 6061 Aircraft Aluminum housing exudes a sense of durability, and the weight, while noticeable, didn’t feel excessive. The finish was clean, and the turrets turned with tactile clicks.

I was also considering the Primary Arms SLx 3x32mm Gen III Prism Scope and the Vortex Spitfire AR 3x Prism Scope. I chose the Monstrum Blackbird primarily because of its lower price point, betting that it could offer acceptable performance for my needs without the premium price tag of the others. I was also swayed by the reviews that touted its clear glass and ease of use.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The build quality seemed decent, and the reticle appeared crisp indoors. Whether it could live up to the hype in real-world scenarios remained to be seen, but I was eager to put it through its paces.

Real-World Testing: Putting Monstrum Blackbird 3x30mm Prismatic Red Dot Sight to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Monstrum Blackbird at my local shooting range, mounting it on my AR-15 chambered in 5.56 NATO. The initial zeroing process was straightforward, with the turrets providing audible and tactile feedback for adjustments. I was shooting at distances ranging from 50 to 200 yards.

The weather was overcast with a slight drizzle, providing a good test for the sight’s fog-resistant properties. The Monstrum Blackbird performed admirably, maintaining a clear sight picture even with the damp conditions. I found the eye relief to be comfortable, allowing for a consistent cheek weld.

I did need a short period to acclimate to the 3x magnification, as I’m accustomed to using unmagnified red dots for close-quarters shooting. However, once I adjusted my technique, I found the Monstrum Blackbird allowed for significantly more accurate shot placement at longer distances. I was surprised at how well I could maintain consistent groupings even out to 200 yards.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Monstrum Blackbird has proven to be a reliable optic. I’ve taken it through multiple range sessions and even used it during a weekend hog hunt in a wooded area. It has held zero consistently, even after being subjected to moderate recoil and jostling.

I’ve noticed some minor cosmetic wear on the housing, mainly around the edges where it has rubbed against my gear. However, the lenses remain scratch-free, and the illumination continues to function flawlessly. The 6061 Aircraft Aluminum appears to be holding up well.

Maintaining the Monstrum Blackbird is a breeze. I simply wipe down the exterior with a clean cloth after each use and occasionally clean the lenses with a lens cleaning solution. The enclosed emitter design minimizes the amount of dust and debris that can accumulate on the internal components. This has made maintenance incredibly easy and stress-free.

Compared to my previous experience with cheaper red dots, the Monstrum Blackbird offers a significantly clearer and more refined sight picture. While it may not compete with high-end optics in terms of absolute clarity and light transmission, it certainly punches above its weight class in terms of value and performance. It has exceeded my expectations for an optic in this price range.

Breaking Down the Features of Monstrum Blackbird 3x30mm Prismatic Red Dot Sight

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Monstrum
• Fabric/Material: 6061 Aircraft Aluminum
• Magnification: 3x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 30 mm
• Reticle: Circle-Dot Reticle
• Illumination Color: Red
• Eye Relief: 3 – 3.5 in
• Emitter Type: Enclosed
• Water Resistance Level: Yes
• Fogproof: Yes
• Weight: 13.9 oz
• Red Dot Sights-Footprint: Not Applicable

These specifications translate to a compact and durable optic that offers a good balance of magnification and field of view. The 6061 Aircraft Aluminum construction ensures that it can withstand the rigors of field use. The fixed 3x magnification provides a noticeable increase in target identification and accuracy at medium ranges. The circle-dot reticle is intuitive and easy to use, allowing for rapid target acquisition.

Performance & Functionality

The Monstrum Blackbird performs admirably for its intended purpose: rapid target acquisition and accurate shot placement at medium ranges. The fixed 3x magnification is a significant advantage over standard red dots, allowing for more precise aiming. The illuminated reticle is visible in a variety of lighting conditions, ensuring that the sight is usable in both bright sunlight and low-light environments.

The primary strength of the Monstrum Blackbird is its clear glass and user-friendly reticle. The main weakness is that it is not ideal for close-quarters engagements due to the fixed magnification. The illumination is decent but could be brighter for very bright conditions.

The Monstrum Blackbird largely meets my expectations, especially considering its price point. It provides a clear and reliable optic solution for medium-range shooting, offering a significant improvement in accuracy over standard red dots. It is suitable for recreational shooting, hunting, and potentially even tactical applications.

Design & Ergonomics

The Monstrum Blackbird boasts a compact and streamlined design, constructed from durable materials. The use of 6061 Aircraft Aluminum ensures that it can withstand the rigors of field use. The weight of 13.9 oz is noticeable but not excessively heavy, providing a good balance between durability and portability.

The optic is user-friendly, with easily accessible turrets and a simple illumination control. There is a slight learning curve associated with using a magnified optic compared to an unmagnified red dot, but the intuitive design of the Monstrum Blackbird makes the transition relatively seamless. Overall, the design and ergonomics are well-suited for the intended purpose.

Durability & Maintenance

The Monstrum Blackbird appears to be a durable optic that can withstand moderate use and recoil. The 6061 Aircraft Aluminum housing provides excellent protection for the internal components. The water resistance and fogproof properties ensure that the optic is usable in a variety of environmental conditions.

Maintaining the Monstrum Blackbird is straightforward. Regular cleaning of the lenses and occasional wiping down of the exterior are typically sufficient to keep the optic in good working order. The enclosed emitter design minimizes the amount of dust and debris that can accumulate on the internal components, reducing the need for extensive cleaning. This simplicity makes it easy to maintain and extend its lifespan.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Monstrum Blackbird comes with basic mounting hardware suitable for Picatinny rails. While there are no included accessories for further customization, its standard mounting platform allows for compatibility with various aftermarket mounts. These mounts can provide different height options or quick-detach capabilities.

Since it’s a prismatic sight, there aren’t many “traditional” red dot accessories that apply. There’s no footprint to worry about and no stacking to be done.

Pros and Cons of Monstrum Blackbird 3x30mm Prismatic Red Dot Sight

Who Should Buy Monstrum Blackbird 3x30mm Prismatic Red Dot Sight?

The Monstrum Blackbird 3x30mm Prismatic Red Dot Sight is perfect for shooters looking for an affordable and reliable magnified optic for medium-range shooting. This includes recreational shooters, hunters, and tactical shooters who need a more precise aiming solution than a standard red dot. It’s also a great option for those who want to upgrade from iron sights without breaking the bank.

Those who primarily engage in close-quarters combat or require a wider field of view at close ranges should skip this product. A standard, unmagnified red dot sight would be a better choice for these applications. Also, those needing the absolute highest optical clarity and light transmission should consider higher-end options.

A must-have accessory would be a high-quality lens cleaning kit to maintain the clarity of the glass. A QD (Quick Detach) mount would be useful for switching between optics quickly.

Conclusion on Monstrum Blackbird 3x30mm Prismatic Red Dot Sight

The Monstrum Blackbird 3x30mm Prismatic Red Dot Sight is a solid performer that offers exceptional value for the price. It delivers a clear sight picture, durable construction, and reliable performance, making it a worthwhile addition to any shooter’s arsenal. While it has some limitations, such as its fixed magnification and less-than-stellar illumination brightness, these are minor drawbacks compared to its overall strengths.

The price is definitely justified by the quality and performance that you get. You’re getting the benefits of a prism optic, 3x magnification, and a solid build without paying a premium.

I would definitely recommend the Monstrum Blackbird to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable magnified optic. It’s a great entry point into the world of prism sights. Give it a try! You might be surprised at how well it performs.