March 04, 2023, 09:45 AM
Pete KPistol Red Dot Tech Tip
I realize that there is a love/hate relationship with installing an electronic item like a red dot on a pistol.
With regard to battery life, I have found the big issue is with the battery itself rather than the device.
We have no idea how long most batteries sit on the shelf. A typical 3 volt red dot battery will measure as high as 3.35 volts, and one that has been sitting a while can measure closer to 3.0 volts.
Clearly, longer life can be expected with a 3.3 ish volt battery than a 3.0 ish battery.
Before I swap mine out, I check it with a $10 DVOM and write the voltage and date on the battery with a sharpie. Personally, if it doesn’t check at a minimum 3.15 volts, I won’t use it.
This habit of checking and documenting takes no time, costs no money (assuming you own a DVOM) and I recommend incorporating it into your predetermined maintenance schedule.
May 14, 2023, 04:53 PM
jljonesYou happen to have a link to the $10 DOVM?
May 14, 2023, 05:10 PM
babueI use this one.
https://www.harborfreight.com/...ultimeter-63759.htmlI have had it for years and works fine for simple stuff.
May 15, 2023, 01:01 PM
BlackTalonJHPFor a $10 DMM, look at the Aneng M108 or M118.
I paid $10 for my Amprobe PM60 but they are discontinued
August 29, 2023, 07:40 PM
4MUL8RVoltage is not sufficient to evaluate a battery. Several inexpensive DVOM offer a battery load test. Suggest you choose these DVOM for true eval.