Dropping a $160 enclosed optic. Zerohawk EM1 mini-torture test

Published on April 26, 2026
Duration: 5:45

This video tests the durability and zero retention of the sub-$200 ZeroHawk EM1 enclosed red dot optic. The optic underwent a 500-round shooting test on a Kimber CDS9, a shoulder-height drop test onto AR500 steel, and post-punching. The results indicate that the EM1 held zero after significant abuse, challenging the notion that only expensive optics are reliable. The reviewer highlights the evolving landscape of affordable optics and compares the EM1 favorably to older, more expensive models.

Quick Summary

The ZeroHawk EM1, a sub-$200 enclosed red dot optic, demonstrated impressive durability in a torture test. It survived 500 rounds, a shoulder-height drop onto AR500 steel, and post-punching while successfully holding zero, challenging the market's reliance on expensive optics for reliability.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Red Dot Evolution
  2. 00:52Introducing the ZeroHawk EM1
  3. 01:36Unboxing Experience
  4. 01:47Test Plan and Disclosure
  5. 02:04Comparison to Holosun EPS Carry
  6. 02:13Test Platform: Kimber CDS9
  7. 02:44Baseline Groups
  8. 03:26Ammunition Count and Test Recap
  9. 03:46Post-Test Zero Confirmation
  10. 04:03Damage Assessment
  11. 04:12Affordable Optics vs. Legacy Brands
  12. 04:27Trijicon Failures
  13. 04:50Value Proposition
  14. 05:00Red Dot Tech Evolution
  15. 05:09Final Thoughts on Trijicon

Frequently Asked Questions

How did the ZeroHawk EM1 optic perform in durability tests?

The ZeroHawk EM1 underwent a rigorous torture test including 500 rounds of shooting, a shoulder-height drop onto AR500 steel, and post-punching. Despite this abuse, the optic maintained its zero and remained functional, with only minor cosmetic damage.

Is the ZeroHawk EM1 a reliable budget red dot sight?

Based on the testing, the ZeroHawk EM1 appears to be a surprisingly reliable budget red dot sight. It held zero after significant abuse, challenging the assumption that only expensive optics can withstand harsh conditions.

What are the key features of the ZeroHawk EM1 optic?

The ZeroHawk EM1 is an enclosed emitter red dot sight featuring spherical glass for reduced distortion, a multi-reticle system with a 232 MOA dot, and nitrogen purging. It also comes with a comprehensive unboxing experience including tools and instructions.

How does the ZeroHawk EM1 compare to more expensive red dot sights?

The ZeroHawk EM1, priced at $160, is compared favorably to older, more expensive optics like the Trijicon RMR2 ($425) and similar-priced competitors like the Holosun EPS Carry. It offers comparable performance and durability at a significantly lower cost.

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