Vortex Defender-ST™ 3 MOA Micro Red Dot

Manufacturer information

Full manufacturer details are available on request from our customer service team.

EU responsible person

Drone safety

• Register and fly in line with the rules where you operate. In the UK this means the Civil Aviation Authority registration requirements and the Drone and Model Aircraft Code. In the EU, register with your national aviation authority.
• Some operations, including commercial or professional work, may need additional permissions. Check the category that applies to your flight before use.
• Complete the manufacturer’s pre-flight checks before every flight, and keep the drone within your visual line of sight.
• Keep clear of spinning propellers. Remove the flight battery before handling propellers or carrying out maintenance.
• Do not fly near airports, over crowds or in weather conditions outside the manufacturer’s stated limits.
• Respect privacy. Recording people or private property may be subject to data protection and privacy laws.

Night vision and thermal device safety

• Do not point the lens at the sun, lasers or other intense light or heat sources. This can permanently damage the sensor.
• Keep the lens cap on when the device is not in use.
• Do not look into an active infrared illuminator at close range. Infrared light is invisible, so you may not notice exposure.
• When moving between cold and warm environments, let the device adjust gradually to reduce condensation.
• If the device is mounted on a firearm, make sure the firearm is unloaded before fitting, adjusting or removing it. Never use a weapon-mounted device to observe anything you do not intend to shoot.
• Laws on using night vision and thermal devices for hunting vary between countries and quarry species. Check the rules that apply to you before use.

Rifle scope and optical sight safety

• Never look at the sun through a scope, magnifier or sight. This can cause permanent eye damage.
• Make sure the firearm is unloaded and pointed in a safe direction before mounting, adjusting or removing the sight.
• Set the correct eye relief to avoid injury from the scope moving back under recoil.
• Tighten mounts and rings to the torque specified by the manufacturer, and confirm your zero before hunting or competition use.
• Never use a sight mounted on a firearm to observe anything you do not intend to shoot.

Binocular, monocular and spotting scope safety

• Never look at the sun through binoculars, monoculars, spotting scopes or telescopes. This can cause permanent eye damage.
• Do not leave the optic in direct sunlight. Lenses can focus sunlight and cause a fire.
• Do not walk or move around while looking through the optic.
• Neck straps can be a strangulation hazard. Keep straps away from young children.
• Make sure tripods and mounts are stable and fully locked before attaching the optic.

Laser rangefinder safety

• Do not look into the laser emitter, and never aim the laser at the eyes of people or animals.
• Never view the laser beam through binoculars, scopes or other magnifying optics.
• Do not aim the laser at aircraft, vehicles or reflective surfaces such as glass and mirrors.
• Check the laser class shown on the product label and follow the manufacturer instructions for safe use.
• Do not open, modify or repair the device yourself. This can expose you to hazardous laser radiation.

Laser and infrared illuminator safety

• Check the laser class shown on the product label. Lasers of Class 3R and above can cause eye injury, even from brief exposure.
• Never look into the beam or aim it at people, animals, vehicles or aircraft. In the UK it is an offence to shine a laser at a vehicle or aircraft in a way that dazzles or distracts the operator.
• Infrared lasers and illuminators emit light you cannot see, so your eyes will not blink to protect themselves. Treat an infrared device as switched on until you have confirmed it is off.
• Weapon-mounted lasers and bore sights point where the firearm points. Make sure the firearm is unloaded, and never aim it at anything you do not intend to shoot.
• Switch the device off and remove the batteries before cleaning, storing or transporting it.
• Laws on using lasers and illuminators for hunting vary between countries and quarry species. Check the rules that apply to you before use.

Torch and weapon light safety

• Do not shine the light into the eyes of people or animals at close range. High-output lights can dazzle and may cause eye damage.
• Never shine lights at vehicles or aircraft.
• Lights can become hot during use. Do not cover the lens while switched on, and use the lockout feature, where fitted, when carrying the light in a bag or pocket.
• Weapon-mounted lights point where the firearm points. Never use a weapon light to search for or identify anything you do not intend to shoot.
• Laws on lamping and using lights for hunting vary between countries and quarry species. Check the rules that apply to you before use.

Trail camera safety

• Get the landowner’s permission before installing a camera on land you do not own.
• Cameras that record people or public areas may be subject to data protection and privacy laws. Position the camera to avoid capturing people where possible.
• Take care when fitting cameras at height, and use suitable straps or mounts so the camera cannot fall.
• Cellular cameras use a mobile network connection. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on SIM cards, data plans and account security.

Chronograph safety

• Position the chronograph so the projectile passes through the measuring area, at the minimum distance from the muzzle stated by the manufacturer.
• Make sure the firearm is unloaded before setting up, adjusting or moving the chronograph. Never go downrange while anyone is shooting.
• Always use a safe backstop, as the chronograph does not stop the projectile.
• Wear eye protection. Fragments from a struck unit or support can cause injury.

Smartwatch and GPS device safety

• Do not rely solely on the device for navigation or ballistic data in hazardous conditions. Always carry a backup and check the data yourself.
• Stop wearing the device if you notice skin irritation.
• Follow the manufacturer’s water resistance rating and charging instructions.
• Health and fitness readings are for guidance only. The device is not a medical device.

High-pressure air safety

• Never exceed the maximum working pressure marked on the compressor, pump, cylinder, hose or air rifle.
• Inspect cylinders, hoses, fittings and O-rings before each use. Do not use damaged, corroded or out-of-date equipment.
• Have cylinders inspected and tested at the intervals required, and store them upright or secured so they cannot fall.
• Release all pressure before connecting or disconnecting fittings. Never point a fill probe or hose at anyone.
• Use compressors in a well-ventilated area, on a stable surface, and follow the manufacturer’s duty cycle to avoid overheating. Air from these compressors is not for breathing.
• Mains-powered compressors must be connected to a suitable, earthed supply. Keep them away from water.
• CO2 capsules are pressurised. Do not puncture, heat or burn them, keep them below 50°C and out of direct sunlight, and only dispose of them once fully empty.

Reloading equipment safety

• Reloading ammunition can be dangerous. Always follow published load data from a reputable source, and never exceed maximum loads.
• Wear eye protection when reloading, priming or decapping.
• Keep powder and primers away from heat, sparks and naked flames. Do not smoke while reloading.
• The purchase and storage of powder and primers is legally controlled. Check the regulations and certificate conditions that apply to you.
• Lead and cleaning media dust can be harmful. Work in a well-ventilated area, do not eat or drink while reloading, and wash your hands afterwards.
• Keep reloading equipment and components away from children.

Air gun pellet safety

• You must be 18 or over to buy air gun pellets in the UK.
• Most pellets contain lead. Wash your hands after handling, and do not put pellets in your mouth.
• Keep pellets away from children and pets. If a pellet is swallowed, seek medical advice.
• Always use a safe backstop, and make sure you know what is beyond your target.

Target safety

• Always use a safe backstop capable of stopping the projectiles you are using.
• Check the minimum safe distance and maximum power or calibre stated for the target. Steel and reactive targets can cause ricochets and fragments.
• Wear eye protection when shooting reactive, resetting or steel targets.
• Only go forward to change or reset targets when all firearms are unloaded and it is safe to do so.

Chemical product safety

• Read the product label before use, and follow the safety data sheet where one is supplied.
• Use in a well-ventilated area. Avoid breathing vapour or spray.
• Aerosols are pressurised and may be extremely flammable. Keep them away from heat, sparks and naked flames. Do not pierce or burn them, even when empty.
• Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Wear gloves where the label advises. If the product gets into your eyes or is swallowed, seek medical advice and take the container or label with you.
• Keep out of reach of children. Store in the original container and dispose of it in line with local regulations.

Gun cleaning safety

• Make sure the firearm is unloaded and there is no ammunition in the cleaning area before you start.
• Wear eye protection. Brushes, springs and cleaning fluids can cause eye injury.
• Firearm residue can contain lead. Wash your hands after cleaning and do not eat or drink while cleaning.
• Use the correct size brush, jag or rod for the calibre to avoid damaging the bore or jamming components.

Knife sharpener safety

• Keep fingers clear of the blade edge and the sharpening surface.
• Powered sharpeners can produce sparks and hot debris. Wear eye protection and keep them away from flammable materials.
• Switch off and unplug powered sharpeners before changing belts or attachments.
• Keep sharpeners and sharpened blades away from children.

Tool safety

• Make sure any firearm is unloaded before working on it or clamping it in a vise.
• Use the correct bit size and torque setting to avoid damaging screws and components. Do not use a torque wrench to loosen fasteners.
• Wear eye protection when using punches, hammers or springs.
• Keep tools away from children.

Mount, ring and rail safety

• Make sure the firearm is unloaded and pointed in a safe direction before fitting, adjusting or removing mounts.
• Check the mount is compatible with your firearm and optic before fitting.
• Tighten screws to the torque specified by the manufacturer. Over-tightening can damage the optic or mount, and under-tightening can let it move under recoil.
• Check that mounts remain tight at regular intervals, and confirm your zero before hunting or competition use.
• Any work that requires drilling, tapping or modifying the firearm should be carried out by a competent gunsmith.

Optic accessory safety

• Make sure the firearm is unloaded before fitting, adjusting or removing accessories on a mounted optic.
• Fitting turrets, levels, levers or sunshades can affect your optic setup. Confirm your zero before hunting or competition use.
• Do not over-tighten clamps or screws on the optic body.
• Some accessories contain small parts. Keep them away from young children.

Bipod, tripod and shooting rest safety

• Make sure the firearm is unloaded before attaching it to, or removing it from, a bipod, tripod or rest.
• Check that all legs, clamps and locking mechanisms are secure before placing a firearm or optic on the support.
• Do not exceed the maximum load stated by the manufacturer.
• Take care with folding legs and clamps, which can trap fingers.
• A support does not secure a firearm. Never leave a loaded firearm unattended on a bipod, tripod or rest.

Rifle stock and chassis safety

• Make sure the firearm is unloaded before fitting or removing a stock or chassis.
• Stocks and chassis systems should be fitted by a competent person or gunsmith. Tighten action screws to the torque specified by the manufacturer.
• After fitting, check that the trigger, safety and bolt work correctly before loading the firearm.
• Confirm your zero before hunting or competition use.

Gun safe and cabinet safety

• Install the safe in line with the manufacturer instructions, and bolt it securely to a solid wall or floor.
• Follow the conditions of your firearm or shotgun certificate and any security advice from your police firearms licensing department.
• Safes are heavy. Use at least two people to move them, and take care to avoid crushing injuries.
• Keep keys and codes secure and away from unauthorised people. Do not store keys with, or on top of, the safe.
• Replace batteries in electronic locks promptly when the low battery warning appears.

Silencer cover safety

• Silencers and moderators become very hot during use. A cover reduces surface heat but does not remove it.
• Allow the silencer to cool before handling it, removing the cover or putting the firearm in a case.
• Check the cover regularly for heat damage and replace it if it is scorched or worn.

Bag, case and sling safety

• Never store or transport a loaded firearm in a bag or case.
• Soft bags and most cases are not secure storage. Store firearms in line with your certificate conditions and police security advice.
• Check slings, swivels, straps and buckles for wear before each use, and replace any damaged parts.
• Do not overload bags or carrying systems beyond the manufacturer’s stated capacity.
• Plastic packaging can be a suffocation hazard. Keep it away from children.

Hearing protection

• This is personal protective equipment. Check that the noise reduction rating shown on the product or packaging is suitable for your use.
• Fit the protector as instructed. Hair, glasses and hats can break the seal and reduce protection.
• Inspect ear cushions and headbands regularly, and replace worn or damaged parts.
• Set electronic amplification to a comfortable level. The protector still reduces noise when switched off, but check that it remains fitted correctly.
• No hearing protection removes all noise. Limit your exposure to loud gunfire wherever possible.

Eye protection and eyewear

• Check the marking on the frame or lens for the level of impact protection. Eyewear is only suitable for shooting if it is marked to an impact protection standard.
• Never look directly at the sun, even with tinted or polarised lenses.
• Dark tinted lenses are not suitable for driving at night or in low light.
• Replace lenses or frames that are scratched, cracked or damaged.

Drinkware and food container safety

• Take care with hot drinks and food, which can cause scalds. Keep hot contents away from children.
• Do not overfill. Leave space below the lid, and open lids carefully, as pressure can build up with hot or carbonated contents.
• Do not put stainless steel products in a microwave.
• Check the manufacturer’s guidance before putting products in a dishwasher or freezer.

Cooler and cargo box safety

• Coolers and cargo boxes are heavy when full. Lift with care and use two people where needed.
• If using dry ice, keep the cooler in a well-ventilated area and never in an enclosed vehicle cabin without ventilation. Dry ice releases carbon dioxide.
• Handle frozen ice blocks with care to avoid cold burns.
• Do not allow children to play in or climb on coolers or cargo boxes.
• Take care with lids, latches and handles, which can trap fingers.

Pet product safety

• Use training and bark control collars only as described in the manufacturer instructions, and check the fit regularly to avoid skin irritation.
• Laws on electronic training collars vary between countries. Check the rules that apply where you live before use.
• Do not leave collars on for longer than the manufacturer recommends, and remove them if your dog shows signs of distress.
• GPS and electronic collars contain batteries. Follow the manufacturer’s charging instructions.
• Supervise pets with new products, and remove any product that becomes damaged.

Clothing, footwear and headwear

• Keep clothing away from open flames and heat sources.
• Clothing is not personal protective equipment unless it is marked as such. Blaze orange and other bright colours are not certified high-visibility clothing unless stated.
• Follow the care label to maintain the performance of waterproof and technical fabrics.

Small parts

• This product contains small parts and is not suitable for children under 3 years. Choking hazard.

Battery, charging and power safety

• Use only the battery type and charger recommended by the manufacturer.
• Charge on a stable, non-flammable surface away from heat, and do not leave batteries charging unattended for long periods.
• Do not mix old and new batteries, or batteries of different types or brands.
• Do not short-circuit, puncture, crush, heat or burn batteries. Stop using any battery that is swollen, leaking or unusually hot.
• Coin and button batteries are extremely dangerous if swallowed. Keep new and used batteries away from children. If you think a battery has been swallowed or placed inside the body, seek medical help immediately.
• Mains-powered products and power stations must be used with a suitable supply, kept dry and not covered while operating.
• Remove batteries if the product will not be used for a long period, and recycle used batteries at a battery collection point.

General product safety

• Use this product only for its intended purpose and as described in the manufacturer instructions.
• Inspect the product before each use, and stop using it if it is damaged or worn.
• Check compatibility before fitting the product to firearms or other equipment. Make sure any firearm is unloaded first.
• Keep small parts and packaging away from young children.

Read the manufacturer instructions supplied with this product before first use, and keep them for future reference.