SIG SAUER, one of the most recognized names in firearms and optics, has issued a massive recall affecting approximately 230,000 ROMEO5 Red Dot Sights. This recall, as reported by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (USCPSC), stems from a federal safety violation related to the product’s button cell battery.
The issue is not with the performance of the sight itself but with the CR2032 battery it contains, which fails to meet federal safety regulations designed to protect consumers, particularly children, from ingestion hazards.
The Specifics of the Recall

According to the USCPSC, the affected models include SOR52001 and 7400579, which can be identified by checking the serial number on the bottom of the sight. Units with serial numbers ending in either “K” or “M” are part of the recall. These sights were sold between February 2023 and December 2024 through various major retailers such as Bass Pro Shops, Cabela’s, Sportsman’s Warehouse, and online platforms like Amazon and Opticsplanet.
While no injuries or incidents have been reported, the recall is a precautionary measure to comply with Reese’s Law, a federal mandate requiring consumer products with button cell batteries to have child-resistant packaging and clear warning labels.
Why It Matters

Newsweek journalist Adeola Adeosun detailed how the recall highlights broader safety concerns with consumer electronics. Button cell batteries, if swallowed, can cause serious internal injuries, including chemical burns and, in extreme cases, death. While many manufacturers have adapted to federal regulations by updating their packaging, SIG SAUER’s oversight led to non-compliance, necessitating this recall.
Ensuring Compliance

The recall doesn’t suggest that the ROMEO5 itself is faulty, but it does highlight the need for firearm accessory manufacturers to ensure compliance with evolving safety laws. This recall underscores the importance of both firearm owners and manufacturers keeping up with regulatory changes to avoid potential legal and safety issues.
The Process for Consumers

SIG SAUER is offering affected customers a free recall kit that includes a new battery compartment cap with the required safety labeling and an updated instruction manual. The company has set up a recall response system where consumers can verify their serial numbers and receive replacement kits. Customers can contact SIG SAUER through their safety center, email support, or their customer service phone line.
Additionally, consumers are encouraged to follow local hazardous waste procedures for the proper disposal of button cell batteries. Since these batteries pose a danger if discarded carelessly, it’s essential to handle them responsibly, ensuring they are not accessible to children or pets.
Gun Community Reactions

Troy, host of the Second Amendment-focused YouTube channel 2A NEWS NOW, provided an in-depth reaction to the recall. While acknowledging the importance of consumer safety, he questioned the necessity of such strict regulations on firearm accessories.
He pointed out that the ROMEO5 Red Dot Sight is a product intended for responsible adults, not children. According to Troy, the likelihood of a button cell battery from a firearm optic being ingested by a child is low, particularly since most buyers install the battery immediately upon unboxing.
Other Optics’ Packaging

Troy also noted that other optics he has purchased in the past often come with button cell batteries stored in a simple plastic bag rather than tamper-resistant packaging. His argument aligns with the frustration some firearm owners feel about excessive regulations being applied to products not marketed toward children.
A Compliance Oversight or Necessary Safety Precaution?

There is an ongoing debate about whether this recall reflects a genuine safety concern or an overreach of federal regulation. Reese’s Law was created primarily to address incidents involving children swallowing small batteries found in everyday household items like remote controls and key fobs. While compliance with the law is mandatory, some argue that applying it to firearm accessories is unnecessary given the nature of their use and intended audience.
However, others maintain that consumer safety laws exist for a reason. The button cell battery ingestion issue has been linked to serious injuries, particularly in young children who unknowingly swallow these small, coin-like batteries. Although firearm owners are unlikely to leave batteries lying around, regulations ensure manufacturers take responsibility for securing these potentially hazardous components.
Impact on SIG SAUER’s Reputation

SIG SAUER is no stranger to controversy, having dealt with recalls and legal challenges in the past. However, this latest recall may be more of a regulatory misstep than a significant failure on the company’s part. The ROMEO5 is a popular optic, known for its reliability and affordability. This recall does not impact the functionality of the sight itself, meaning consumer confidence in the product line is unlikely to be severely affected.
Still, firearm owners and retailers may take notice of how the company handles this issue moving forward. Timely responses, transparent communication, and efficient recall procedures will be key to maintaining trust with customers. SIG SAUER has an opportunity to demonstrate that they are proactive about compliance and consumer safety rather than dismissing the recall as bureaucratic red tape.
The Bigger Picture: Federal Regulations and Firearm Accessories

This recall highlights the intersection of firearm ownership, government regulations, and consumer safety laws. While many in the firearms community advocate for minimal government oversight, incidents like this demonstrate that federal compliance is an unavoidable part of modern manufacturing. Companies that produce firearm-related products must stay ahead of regulatory changes to avoid costly recalls and potential lawsuits.
For consumers, this recall serves as a reminder to stay informed about safety recalls and regulatory updates. Firearm ownership comes with responsibilities beyond proper handling and training—it also involves staying up to date with the legal landscape that governs related products.
A Recall That Raises Questions

SIG SAUER’s ROMEO5 recall is an interesting case of regulatory enforcement colliding with the realities of firearm accessory use. While the button cell battery hazard is real and documented in other industries, applying these laws to firearm optics raises important questions about the scope of consumer protection regulations.
Check Your Gear

Ultimately, whether this recall is seen as a necessary safeguard or an unnecessary regulatory burden depends on one’s perspective. What is clear, however, is that SIG SAUER customers should check their gear, follow the recall process, and remain vigilant about future changes in product safety laws. As regulations continue to evolve, firearm manufacturers and owners alike will need to stay informed to ensure compliance and safety in the industry.

Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, John developed a love for the great outdoors early on. With years of experience as a wilderness guide, he’s navigated rugged terrains and unpredictable weather patterns. John is also an avid hunter and fisherman who believes in sustainable living. His focus on practical survival skills, from building shelters to purifying water, reflects his passion for preparedness. When he’s not out in the wild, you can find him sharing his knowledge through writing, hoping to inspire others to embrace self-reliance.