Search results
Dec 19, 2023 · Quick Summary. Editor’s Choice: Holosun HS507C-X2. "The Holosun HS501C-X2 is easy to use and super small, providing a versatile platform for any user." Upgrade Pick: Aimpoint Micro T-2. "The Aimpoint Micro T-2 is simple and straightforward to use with a clear lens and unlimited eye relief." Best Red Dot for Turkey Hunting: Trijicon SRO.
- Holosun HS507C-X2
- Trijicon RMR Type 2 - Best Overall. I think the Trijicon RMR open emitter reflex sight is still setting the standard for micro red dot sights. It's my go-to choice for a pistol sighting system.
- Holosun 507C X2 - Best RMR Alternative. I find the Holosun 507C X2 to be an outstanding choice, especially when comparing it to the Trijicon RMR. What really stands out for me is how much money I save, while still getting to use the same mounting footprint.
- Trijicon SRO - Largest Field Of View. I really enjoy using the Trijicon SRO for its large window, which allows me to track the dot faster than standard red dot sights.
- Holosun 509T - Best Weatherproof. I have love and hate relationship with the Holosun 509T X2. It's a closed emitter red dot and its full weatherproof, but it can be difficult to mount without the right adapter plate.
- Sig Sauer Romeo5 1x20mm Red Dot Sight. Top-rated: 11,541 ratings | 726 answered questions. Highlight: 10 illumination settings (8 daylight, 2 NV) for visibility in all light conditions.
- Vortex Optics Venom Red Dot Sight. Top-rated: 5,196 ratings | 1000+ answered questions. Highlight: The top load mechanism allows you to easily change the battery (without removing the sight).
- Burris FastFire III 8 MOA Dot. Top-rated: 2,600 ratings | 854 answered questions. Highlight: Tool-less wind age and elevation adjustments. Helpful review: "I purchased this sight to mount on my Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm Full Size pistol.
- Holosun 510C Open Reflex Sight. Top-rated: 3,672 ratings | 312 answered questions. Highlight: 2 MOA Dot & 65 MOA Circle. Helpful review: "I've had an RMR and a few Vortex red dots.
- The Quick List
- How We Tested The Best Pistol Red Dots
- Best Micro Red Dots For Micro Compact Pistols
- Best Full-Sized Enclosed Emitter Pistol Dots
- Honorable Mentions
- Final Thoughts
- Latest Updates
Editor’s PickHolosun 507C X2 – ACSS Vulcan ReticleJump to DetailsGold StandardTrijicon RMR Type 2Jump to DetailsBest Affordable OptionPrimary Arms SLx RS-10Jump to DetailsBest for CompetitonHolosun HS507CompJump to DetailsInput for this article came from the editorial team at Pew Pew Tactical after extensive testing with each model on a variety of firearms. Our team is comprised of former law enforcement, competition shooters, and concealed carry instructors. For this assessment, we mounted each optic on carry and competition pistols and ran thousands of rounds thro...
These are some of our favorite dots that use smaller footprints to fit on the ultra-popular micro compact genre of pistols.
These are our top picks for those who want a fully enclosed emitter for increased durability on their non-micro compact handguns
Trijicon RMRcc
Does Trijicon still reign supreme even in the world of micro red dots with its RMRcc? It looks great and is essentially a smaller RMR. So it’s built like a tank and will survive almost anything you can throw at it. You get nice tactile buttons on each side and essentially tool-less adjustment for windage/elevation. Battery life is a claimed 4 years, which puts it at the higher end of the spectrum. Plus, it also has the ability to either secure auto-brightness for carry or a user-chosen bright...
Vortex Defender CCW
In 2023 Vortex set out to shake up the red dot world with their new Defender CCW. This compact, yet ruggedized optic was a culmination of everything the American company had learned to date. Vortex first focused on making the Defender tough, with a 7075 aluminum body and aspherical, coated lens. There’s even a polymer bumper on the top for shock and a textured face for racking the slide off the optic. The Defender CCW uses a top-load battery, so you don’t have to remove it and re-zero for rep...
Leupold DeltaPoint Pro
Another great option is the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro (DPP). While slightly bigger than the RMR, it has been a favorite of mine for competition shooting due to the extremely clear glass and large viewing window. The 2.5 MOA is reasonable for close-up work and really beneficial for longer-range shots. Although plenty rugged with its double hood…I’d still give the overall win to the RMR in that department. Leupold doesn’t list exact stats for battery life, and reports seem to vary from 2-8 months...
There you have it…the reasons why or why not to get a pistol red dot. And our favorite picks across some price ranges and applications. What are your experiences with shooting red dots on your pistol? Any tips for the learning curve? Check out our How to Shoot Pistol More Accuratelyfor more tips that translate to iron sights AND red dots.
May 16, 2024: After additional testing, we moved three models to the Honorable Mentions section. Added supplemental data to each product recommendation and also expanded on how we tested each red dot.March 10, 2024: Removed products – Burris Fastfire III, Vortex Venom, Shield RMSc, Swampfox Sentinel, Crimson Trace CT-1550. Added products – Holosun EPS Carry, Holosun HS507Comp, Aimpoint ACRO P-2...Our experts tested the best red dot sights for pistols, rifles, and shotguns for hunting and target shooting. We reviewed sights from Vortex, Bushnell, and more.
Dec 14, 2022 · Red dot sights cut it down to two. Put dot on target area, press trigger. It's a simpler and more biologically congruent sighting system than iron sights. If scopes are better for shooting rifles, so are red dots, and it turns out that they work pretty well on pistols too.
People also ask
How much does a pistol red dot sight cost?
How do you use red dot sights?
Do red dot sights fit all handgun slides?
What is the best red dot sight for shotgun use?
Apr 22, 2024 · Whether you are just starting out or an experienced shooter looking to upgrade, we have compiled a list of the best pistol red dot sights for all types of handgun owners. From budget-friendly to high-end options, this guide will cover everything from features and performance to price points and more. #1.
