Competition Glass for Working Folks: Ten Months with the Holosun 507Comp

My son stood at the firing line, facing six steel plates at varying distances. Through the oversized window of his Holosun 507Comp, the 8 MOA circle framed each target perfectly as he transitioned between them. Six shots, six hits, 3.2 seconds—fast enough to win his division at the local match. Not bad for a seventeen-year-old using a $380 Chinese optic against shooters running thousand-dollar setups.

That September afternoon at the Kalispell Practical Shooters match demonstrated why the 507Comp has become our family’s choice for competition pistols. Since mounting these enlarged-window red dots on three different handguns, we’ve collectively fired approximately 8,500 rounds through match stages, practice sessions, and training drills. What started as curiosity about the “competition” model has evolved into genuine appreciation for purpose-built design.

Here in northern Montana, we shoot competitively for fun and skill development, not sponsorships. We need equipment that performs without requiring a second mortgage. The 507Comp delivers professional competition features at prices regular families can afford. After ten months of matches, practices, and one memorable equipment failure that taught valuable lessons, I understand why this specialized sight has found its niche.

Understanding the 507Comp Design

The “Comp” designation isn’t just marketing—it represents specific competition-focused modifications:

Feature	Specification	Competition Advantage
Window Size	1.1″ x 0.87″	40% larger than standard
Housing Material	7075-T6 Aluminum	Lightweight yet tough
Weight	1.7 ounces	Minimal slide weight
Reticle Options	2/8/20/32 MOA	Four circle sizes
Battery Type	CR1632	Side-loading design
Battery Life	50,000 hours	Years of matches
Brightness Settings	8 daylight + 2 NV	Manual control only
Adjustment	1 MOA clicks	Competition precision
Special Features	Shake Awake, Lock Mode	Match-ready tech
Footprint	Modified RMR	Requires specific cut
Price	~$380 street	Competition value

Ten Months of Family Competition

The wilderness doesn’t care about your schedule—but match directors do. Our testing reflects real competition use across multiple shooters.

Platform Distribution

We’re running 507Comps on:

• Son’s CZ Shadow 2 (USPSA Production)
• My Glock 34 Gen5 MOS (IDPA SSP)
• Neighbor’s kid’s Canik TP9SFx (Steel Challenge)

Each shooter and discipline revealed different advantages of the enlarged window design.

The Window Size Revelation

Coming from standard red dots, the 507Comp’s window feels massive. At first, it seemed excessive—like putting a picture window on a pistol. Ten months later, I can’t imagine competing without it.

The larger window provides:

• Faster dot acquisition during draw
• Better tracking through recoil
• Maintained sight picture during movement
• Reduced “hunting” for lost dots
• Improved peripheral awareness

My son describes it perfectly: “It’s like switching from looking through a keyhole to looking through a door.”

Competition Performance Analysis

USPSA Production Division

My son has shot twelve USPSA matches with his 507Comp-equipped Shadow 2:

Stage Performance:

• Average hit factor improved 18% over iron sights
• Transition times between targets decreased 0.2 seconds
• Make-up shots reduced by 40%
• Zero Mike (miss) penalties in last six matches

The multiple circle options proved invaluable. He runs the 8 MOA circle with 2 MOA dot for most stages, switching to 20 MOA circle for close, fast arrays. The ability to change mid-match provides real tactical advantage.

IDPA Stock Service Pistol

I’ve shot eight IDPA matches with the Comp on my Glock 34:

Notable Improvements:

• Consistent -0 down on standards
• Faster target acquisition from concealment
• Better accuracy while moving
• Reduced time on precision shots

The enlarged window excels when shooting around barriers. I can maintain sight picture while slicing the pie, something smaller windows make difficult.

Steel Challenge Performance

Our neighbor’s daughter (16 years old) runs Steel Challenge with her Canik:

Her Results:

• Peak times improved 15% in first month
• Smoke & Hope times dropped under 3 seconds
• Consistency improved dramatically
• Classification moved up two levels

She credits the large window for confidence—she knows she’ll find the dot quickly, reducing anxiety and improving performance.

Reticle System Excellence

The 507Comp offers unique reticle configurations:

Four Circle Options

1. 2 MOA dot only: Precision shots
2. 8 MOA circle + dot: All-around use
3. 20 MOA circle + dot: Close, fast targets
4. 32 MOA circle + dot: Point shooting aid

Real Match Applications

Classifier stages: 2 MOA dot for maximum precision Standard stages: 8 MOA circle/dot combination Speed shoots: 20 MOA circle for fast acquisition Moving targets: 32 MOA circle helps leading

The ability to switch quickly (hold minus button) means adapting to stage requirements without compromise.

Competition-Specific Benefits

The circles act as scoring zone references:

• 8 MOA roughly equals A-zone at 7 yards
• 20 MOA approximates A-zone at 3 yards
• 32 MOA covers entire target at contact distance

This intuitive scaling speeds up shooting decisions during matches.

Durability: Built for Match Abuse

High-Volume Testing

Combined across three guns:

• 8,500 rounds total
• 12 USPSA matches
• 8 IDPA matches
• 6 Steel Challenge matches
• Weekly practice sessions

Zero issues with basic function or zero retention.

The One Failure

After six months, my Glock’s 507Comp developed intermittent brightness fluctuation. The dot would randomly dim then brighten. Not complete failure, but distracting during matches.

Holosun warranty replaced it immediately—new unit arrived in 8 days. The replacement has functioned perfectly for four months since.

This failure taught valuable lessons:

• Always have backup sights or gun
• Check equipment before matches
• Warranty service matters
• Nothing is bulletproof

Match-Specific Durability

Barricade Impacts: Numerous bumps against walls, barriers, ports—zero shift minimal

Brass Strikes: Ejected brass bouncing off lens—no damage to coating

Weather Exposure: Shot matches in rain, snow, 95°F heat—no failures

High Round Count Days: 500+ rounds in single day—maintained zero

The aluminum housing shows holster wear but no functional degradation.

Shake Awake in Competition Context

Motion activation proves invaluable for matches:

Make Ready Benefits

• Gun comes out of bag with dot active
• No fumbling with buttons at “Make Ready”
• Consistent brightness between stages
• No forgotten activations

Between Stages

• Automatically sleeps during stage reset
• Wakes instantly when handled
• Preserves battery during long match days
• No manual management needed

My son particularly appreciates this. Teen brain + match stress = forgotten details. Shake Awake eliminates one variable.

Practical Accuracy Assessment

Bench Rest Groups (25 yards)

• 5-shot groups: 1.5-2 inches
• 10-shot groups: 2.5-3 inches
• No shift between reticle modes
• Consistent across all three guns

Match Accuracy

More important than bench rest precision:

• A-zone hits at 98% average
• Down-zero runs increasing
• Called shots match impacts
• Confidence in sight picture

The large window contributes to practical accuracy by maintaining sight picture through entire strings of fire.

Battery Life Reality

CR1632 batteries in competition use:

• Always on: 3-4 months
• Shake Awake enabled: 8-10 months
• Match use only: 12+ months

We change batteries every six months regardless—matches aren’t where you want failures.

Side-loading battery tray means no re-zeroing after changes. This alone justifies the design for competition use.

Comparison with Competition Alternatives

Versus Trijicon SRO

The SRO offers slightly larger window and clearer glass for $200 more. Better for Open division perhaps, but the 507Comp provides 90% of the performance at 60% of the price. For budget-conscious competitors, 507Comp wins.

Versus Standard 507C

We own both. The Comp’s larger window provides measurable match advantage. Worth the extra $80 for serious competition use. For carry or general use, standard 507C suffices.

Versus Leupold DeltaPoint Pro

The DPP sits taller, has smaller window, costs more. Better glass quality, but the 507Comp’s features and window size provide better competition value.

Versus Romeo3 Max

Similar window size, lower price. But the 507Comp’s reticle options and proven reliability make it worth the premium. Sig’s warranty service is slower too.

Youth Shooter Perspective

Our neighbor’s daughter’s experience deserves discussion:

Learning Curve Advantages

• Large window builds confidence quickly
• Multiple reticles let her experiment
• Shake Awake means fewer things to remember
• Side battery won’t interrupt practice

Physical Benefits

• Less upper body strength needed than iron sights
• Faster sight acquisition compensates for smaller hands
• Both-eyes-open shooting came naturally
• Reduced fatigue during long matches

Her Steel Challenge classification improved two levels in four months—the 507Comp deserves partial credit.

Who Should Buy the 507Comp

Perfect For:

Competitive Shooters: Purpose-built for matches with features that provide real advantage

High-Volume Shooters: Durability and battery life handle heavy use

Youth/Female Competitors: Large window helps overcome physical disadvantages

Budget-Conscious Competitors: Professional features at working-class prices

Multi-Gun Competitors: Reticle flexibility adapts to different stages

Look Elsewhere If:

You Need Concealment: Too large for concealed carry

You Shoot Open Division: Might want even larger window options

You Demand Maximum Clarity: Glass good but not exceptional

You Only Shoot Casually: Standard 507C provides better value

Living with Competition Glass

Match Day Routine

Night Before:

• Verify zero hasn’t shifted
• Check battery (voltage meter)
• Clean lens thoroughly
• Verify preferred reticle selected

At Match:

• Function check in safe area
• Brightness adjustment for conditions
• Lock mode after setup
• Spare battery in range bag

Maintenance Schedule

Weekly (during competition season):

• Clean lens with proper cloth
• Check mounting torque
• Verify all functions work

Monthly:

• Deep clean all surfaces
• Check zero at 25 yards
• Inspect for damage or wear

Seasonally:

• Replace battery (preventive)
• Re-verify zero thoroughly
• Check warranty status

Value in Competition Context

• Cost per match: ~$15 (based on 25 matches)
• Cost per round: ~$0.045
• Performance improvement: Measurable
• Competitive advantage: Real

Compared to match fees, ammunition, and travel costs, the 507Comp represents excellent value for performance gained.

Final Assessment: Ten Months Later

The Holosun 507Comp has earned its place on our competition guns through proven match performance. While one warranty replacement was needed, the overall experience has been positive. My son’s improving scores validate the enlarged window concept.

Your best survival tool is the six inches between your ears, but in competition, equipment advantages matter. The 507Comp provides those advantages affordably.

Practice makes permanent, so practice it right. This sight’s reliability and features let competitors focus on fundamentals rather than equipment limitations.

The wilderness doesn’t care about your schedule—but match performance does. The 507Comp delivers when match points are on the line.

Plan for the worst, hope for the best. Keep backup equipment ready, but trust what’s proven. After 8,500 rounds and dozens of matches, the 507Comp has proven itself.

Remember: respect the game, respect the land, respect yourself. In competition, that means using equipment that maximizes your potential without breaking budgets.

Want to explore more competition optics or share your 507Comp experiences? Drop a comment below—match wisdom beats internet opinions every time. And if you’re setting up your first competition pistol, check out our guide to practical competition equipment where we cover everything from holsters to magazine pouches for match success.