Help with MILLETT DMS 1 - I can not see red illumination

[nikonuser]

I just got a Millett DMS 1 1-4x24 scope and took it to the range today and I was surprised to see that the illumination is not enough to make the reticle red. When I looked, the donut reticle and dot were still black under sunny condition. It was already turned on to the max and I could not see the illumination. You bring the scope indoors and then you can see that the scope is on and you can see the red illumination. For DMS1 owners can you tell me if you can see the illumination when shooting outdoors? I am now thinking of sending this scope back. Thanks.

[pummel]

some info

First off, I'm not an owner of one of these scopes, but I have been researching them.
It seems that what you're experiencing is normal for the DMS. This thread here: http://www.ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=3&f=18&t=326527 has 67 pages worth of info(and random comments) about the DMS, to include the lack of illumination in daylight. Hope it helps any.

[Omega13device]

That's exactly how it's supposed to work. It's an illuminated reticle, not a red dot sight. You would see the same thing on a $1000 illuminated Leupold scope. However, even in bright conditions if you point it at something dark (such as the open door of an unlit building) where the reticle would otherwise blend in you will see the red illumination.

If you are outside scoping something bright and you can see the black reticle then you don't need illumination. That's how every regular scope works.

[3GunFunShooter]

This is normal. I have one also and it is the same. Washed out in bright light.
Great for low light, that is what I bought mine for.

[mecam]

It's normal, my Leupold does the same thing. If you want a scope that glows red on bright sunny days, get the Meopta Meostar 1-4x22 KDot.

[maxicon]

Yeah, there are only a few illuminated scopes (not red dots or holosights) that are daylight illuminated, like the Meopta mecam suggests, and the Trijicon Accupoint TR21 (which is more likely to wash out in low light with a flashlight). Both are a good bit more expensive, though.