Review: Trijicon RMR Type 2 Adjustable (RM06)
The Trijicon RMR (Ruggedized Miniature Reflex) Type 2 has earned a reputation as one of the most durable and reliable miniature red dot sights on the market. The RM06 variant features the 3.25 MOA adjustable LED dot with eight brightness settings, including two night vision-compatible levels. This review focuses on its performance and suitability for night vision use.
Key Specifications
- Dot size: 3.25 MOA
- Brightness settings: 8 total (2 NVG-compatible, 6 daylight)
- Battery: CR2032 (top-mounted, tool-less access)
- Battery life: Up to 4 years of continuous use at setting 4 of 8
- Weight: 1.2 oz (34g)
- Housing: Forged 7075-T6 aluminum
- Window size: 21.6mm x 15.8mm
- Water resistance: 20 meters submersion
Night Vision Compatibility
The RM06 includes two dedicated night vision brightness settings at the lowest end of its brightness range. These settings dim the LED dot to a level that is clearly visible through Gen 3 night vision without blooming or washing out the NVG image. This is essential for passive aiming, where you look through the RMR while wearing helmet-mounted NVGs.
At the lowest NVG setting, the dot is very subtle and may require some eye adjustment to pick up quickly, which is ideal for the darkest conditions. The second NVG setting is slightly brighter and works well in moderate ambient light conditions. Both settings produce a clean, round dot without the starburst or bloom that occurs when a standard-brightness red dot overloads the image intensifier tube.
Build Quality and Durability
The Type 2 designation refers to design improvements over the original RMR that address several common complaints. The updated electronics are better sealed and less susceptible to flickering from recoil or battery contact issues. The forged 7075-T6 aluminum housing is extremely tough, and the patented shape is designed to deflect impacts away from the lens. The RMR has been torture-tested extensively by military and law enforcement users and has a well-deserved reputation for surviving abuse that would destroy lesser optics.
Dot Quality
The 3.25 MOA dot size strikes a good balance between precision and speed. It is small enough for accurate shooting at moderate distances yet large enough to acquire quickly during fast-paced close-range engagements. Under night vision, the dot remains round and well-defined at the NVG brightness settings, without the smearing or distortion that some cheaper red dots exhibit.
Practical Considerations for NVG Use
The RMR's compact size makes it an excellent choice for mounting on top of a magnified optic (as a piggyback sight) or on a handgun slide for NVG pistol shooting. When used on a rifle for passive aiming, the RMR will need to be mounted at the appropriate height using a tall mount (1.93 inches or higher) to align with helmet-mounted NVGs.
The top-mounted battery compartment on the Type 2 is a major improvement, allowing battery changes without removing the optic from the mount and without losing zero. Given the 4-year battery life, changes are infrequent, but the convenience is appreciated.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent dedicated NVG brightness settings
- Exceptional durability and proven track record
- Clean, round 3.25 MOA dot at all brightness levels
- Top-mounted battery eliminates need for re-zeroing
- Compact and lightweight
- 4-year battery life
Cons
- Small window can be challenging for fast dot acquisition, especially for new users
- No shake-awake feature (manual on/off only)
- Premium pricing
- Button controls on the side can be difficult to operate with gloves
Verdict
The Trijicon RMR Type 2 RM06 remains one of the top choices for a night vision-compatible miniature red dot. Its dedicated NVG brightness settings work reliably and cleanly, and the overall durability of the platform is nearly unmatched. For anyone building a night vision handgun or rifle setup, the RMR Type 2 is a proven, trusted option.