Best Pistol Red Dot Sight – Top 6 Best Red Dot Sights for Pistol Review

If you want faster target acquisition, more effective low light shooting, and increased accuracy at distance, you need a red dot sight for your pistol. As reflex sights have grown in popularity, manufacturers have embraced the concept and flooded the market with tons of options. With so many models, finding the best pistol red dot sight should be a piece of cake.

The profusion of options is good news for shooters looking to top their CCW, home defense, or duty pistol with a quality reflex sight. However, separating the wheat from the chaff can be a little more difficult. The big question is: Which optics are worth the money?

We’re here to help you understand what makes red dots stand out from the crowd. We’ll also show you what we think are the best models on the market.

What is a Red Dot Sight?

A red dot sight is a type of reflex sight that uses a Light Emitting Diode (LED) to project a dot towards a specially coated lens. The lens bounces a reflection of the dot back to the shooter’s eye. The shooter uses the illuminated red dot to aim at a downrange target.    

Why Use a Red Dot Sight?

Fast target acquisition is the main benefit of red dot optics. Red dot sights dominate in speed-based competition for this very reason. 

Red dots are fast and easy to use. This also makes them well-suited for other uses, including hunting, tactical applications, and personal defense. 

How do red dots speed up target acquisition? I’m glad you asked. 

When using fixed sights, the shooter must incorporate objects at three different distances into the sight picture – the rear sight, the front sight post, and the target. It is impossible for the human eye to focus on three different objects at three different distances. Thus, the shooter is left to focus on the front sight while aligning it inside a blurry rear notch. Then he has to align both with a fuzzy target somewhere downrange. 

A red dot optic makes the whole process easier, especially for inexperienced shooters. Instead of focusing on the sights, the shooter focuses on the target, placing the red dot where he wants the projectile to strike. 

Other Reasons to Use a Red Dot

In addition to fast target acquisition, there are plenty of other reasons to use a red dot optic. Here are some of the most compelling.

• Increased long-range accuracy. Lining up a 2-3 MOA red dot on distance targets is much easier than using iron sights.
• Easier low-light shooting. Many red dots have adjustable brightness. This allows you to adjust the dot to increase visibility in any light condition. 
• Better situational awareness. Shooting with a red dot makes it easier to keep both eyes open. This allows you to maintain peripheral vision and situational awareness when you shoot. 
• Easy to use for shooters with bad eyesight. As we get older, our eyesight often declines. Poor eyesight makes it harder to focus on iron sights. Many older shooters appreciate the ease of aiming with a red dot.

How to Choose Pistol Red Dot Sights?

There are hundreds of quality red dot sights on the market today. While the vast selection is good news for shooters, the sheer number of options can make choosing just one seem overwhelming. Here are a few key factors to consider when shopping for a red dot optic.

1. Color – The original red dot optics only came in red. Today, green reticles are much more common. Some models are even available in other colors (like gold, which works best for color-blind shooters). 
2. Reticle Size – Modern red dots range in size from 1 MOA to 8 MOA. The average pistol red dot is usually around 4 MOA ( which means the dot covers four inches of the target at 100 yards). A larger dot will help you get on target faster. A smaller dot is better for precision shooting, especially on targets at distance.  
3. Batteries – Red dot sights are battery-powered. When the batteries run out, the optic becomes useless. Red dots don’t require a ton of energy to operate, so you’ll probably only need to replace the batteries once every couple of years. Some optics come with built-in battery-saving features which help prevent sudden power failures.
4. Cost – Your shooting application should be the biggest influence on your optics budget. Cheap red dots are fine for casual plinking. However, you’ll want to invest more cash if you want one for hunting or serious competition shooting. Price is usually a good indicator of quality, so if your optic needs to handle rough use or abusive recoil, you will need to make a bigger investment. 

Best Pistol Red Dot Sight on the Market Review

1. Trijicon RMR Type 2 – Best Rated Pistol Red Dot

Trijicon is well-known for supplying optics to the US military. They have a great reputation for quality and performance, and the RMR Type II is a professional-quality sight that totally lives up to the Trijicon name.

Reticle

The RMR Type II is available in three different dot sizes – 1 MOA, 3.25 MOA, and 6.5 MOA.

The ultra-fine 1 MOA dot is perfect for long-range pistol shooting. It is also a smart option for shooters who want a micro red dot that can pull double duty on both your sidearm and your rifle. 

The ample 6.5 MOA dot works well for close-quarters shooting. Its generous size also helps shooters with poor eyesight get the reticle on target quickly.

Trijicon’s 3.25 MOA dot is their most popular, and it was easy for us to understand why. We found this size to be incredibly versatile. It works well for up-close, moving targets, while also allowing for accurate shooting on targets at range. 

Brightness

The RMR Type II features ergonomic brightness controls that are easy to access on the side of the optic. This meant we could quickly control the brightness level from a standard shooting stance. 

The controls also let you toggle back and forth between automatic and manual brightness modes or shut off the sight to preserve battery power. 

The RMR Type II offers eight different brightness settings, including one that is super bright for daytime use and two settings that are compatible with night vision. 

Glass Clarity

The sight window on the RMR measures .87 x .63 inches. The glass is treated with what are supposed to be true-color multi-coatings. 

The coatings are designed to prevent glare while allowing you to see a true-to-life sight picture. However, the coatings create a slightly bluish tint, which took us some time to get used to. 

Durability

If you’re in the market for a rock-solid, shock-resistant red dot to mount on your heavy-hitting hunting pistol, you should definitely give this one a look. 

Tested to withstand serious recoil forces, this red dot works well with large-caliber pistols. The forged aluminum housing is designed to distribute shock away from the lens. However, it adds only minimal weight (only 1.17 ounces), so it won’t unbalance your handgun. 

The optic is also guaranteed waterproof to 66 feet, so you don’t have to worry about its performance in wet, rainy weather.

Elevation and Windage Adjustments

Windage and elevation adjustments on the RMR are super easy. The optic offers a simple dial for tool-free adjustment. Adjustments are made with single MOA clicks over a 150 MOA range.

Mounting and Compatibility

The Trijicon RMR Type II is multi-platform friendly. It is available in several model options that come complete with tall Picatinny, low Picatinny, or Weaver mounts. There is also an option that mounts right to a Trijicon ACOG (Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight). 

Is It Worth It?

The Trijicon RMR Type II is the industry’s gold standard. When it comes to red dots, it just doesn’t get any better than this. 

Features:

• 8 brightness settings (2 NVD compatible settings).
• Automatic and manual brightness options. 
• Battery conservation mode. 
• Three reticle sizes to choose from. 
• True-color multi-coated glass. 
• Limited lifetime warranty. 

Summary

We suggest using the Trijicon RMR Type II for serious shooting. It pairs well with high-caliber hunting handguns, 3 Gun competition pistols, and self-defense sidearms. 

With most models pushing near or over the $500 mark, this definitely isn’t a budget optic. However, we thoroughly believe these red dots are worth every penny. 

Pros:

• Weighs just 1.2 ounces.
• Night vision compatible.
• Excellent battery life. 
• Rock-solid construction.  

Cons:

• Expensive price tag. 
• Slightly bluish tint.

2. TruGlo TRU-TEC Micro – Best Budget Pistol Red Dot Sight

TruGlo has been making quality optics for almost a quarter of a century, and they do a fine job. Their TRU-TEC Micro red dot is perfectly priced for budget-conscious shooters.

Reticle

The TRU-TEC’s 3-MOA dot is a highly versatile size, making this a great multi-purpose option. We found the reticle to be fairly crisp and easy to use. 

Brightness

The TRU-TEC Micro has convenient push-button brightness controls, 10 brightness settings, and an idle auto-off system to save battery life.

Glass Clarity

The TRU-TEC Micro has a multi-coated lens, which provides a bright, clear sight picture, even in low light conditions. The sight window measures 0.9 x 0.67 inches. 

Durability

Compact and lightweight, the TRU-TEC Micro weighs just over one ounce. It is made from CNC-machined aircraft-grade aluminum. The construction makes this small optic surprisingly rugged. This TRU-TEC Micro is also O-ring sealed, making it waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof.

Elevation and Windage Adjustments

The TRU-TEC Micro provides locking windage and elevation adjustments, so you never have to worry about your sight getting knocked off during rough use. 

We found the turn dial adjustments a tad difficult to make, but once we had it zeroed, it held tight. 

Mounting and Compatibility

Tru-Glo’s TRU-TEC MIcro is compatible with all optic-ready pistols. It comes with a common lug and bolt pattern. It fits Glock MOS and similar systems. However, the TRU-TEC Micro does not fit RMR-specific slide cuts.

The sight also comes with a handy Picatinny/Weaver rail mount.

Is It Worth It?

With a price tag under $150, this surprisingly affordable red dot offers plenty of value for the money.

Features:

• Auto-off function.
• 10 brightness settings. 
• Push-button controls. 
• Locking windage and elevation adjustments. 
• Multi-coated glass.

Summary

If you don’t have a ton of cash to invest in a red dot, the Tru-Glo TRU-TEC Micro is the answer to your prayers. This optic won’t break the bank, yet has plenty of performance and features to offer. 

If you can’t afford a Trijicon or a Burris, we firmly believe this is the next best thing. 

Pros:

• Affordable. 
• Easy to mount.
• Compatible with Glock MOS.
• Locking adjustments.
• Digital push-button brightness controls. 

Cons:

• Does not fit RMR-specific slide cuts. 
• Can be clumsy to turn on in a high-adrenaline situation. 
• Windage and elevation adjustments take some effort. 

3. MEPRO MicroRDS – Best Micro Red Dot for Concealed Carry

If you’re looking for a lightweight, compact red dot sight for concealed carry, look no further than the Meprolight Micro RDS.

Reticle

The MicroRDS features a large display window and a crisp, high-definition 3 MOA red dot, so you can keep both eyes open and get on target fast.

The kit also includes a backup, battery-free night sight, just in case your batteries fail. Featuring a luminescent, tritium-phosphor aiming point, the backup sight provides an easy aiming point that doesn’t require a power source. 

Brightness

The MicroRDS features four brightness settings, so you can adjust reticle visibility to suit your lighting condition. We really wish there were a few more options. However, the settings are well-suited for cloudy conditions and bright sunlight. There’s just not a lot of customization available for those in-between situations. 

One of the things we love most about the MEPRO’s Micro RDS is how easy it is to change the batteries. You don’t even have to remove the sight from the slide when you do need to swap the old one out. That means you can change the battery without losing your zero. 

Glass Clarity

Despite the slight size of the MicroRDS, it features a relatively large, crystal-clear sight window that measures .886 x .689 inches. This provides a refreshingly wide field of view, making it easier to shoot with both eyes open and to track moving targets. 

Durability

Don’t be fooled by the MEPRO MicroRDS’s slight size. This is one rugged little red dot. Not only is it super durable, but it also holds tight to its zero through bumps, thumps, and rough use. 

Elevation and Windage Adjustments

The MicroRDS provides side adjustments for windage and elevation. The dials are well-marked, and adjustments are easy to make.

Mounting and Compatibility

The MEPRO MicroRDS is designed to easily mount to any pistol with red dot capabilities. The process takes only a few minutes thanks to MEPRO’s exclusive quick-detach QD adapter kit. Because the kit uses your existing rear sight, there’s no need to drill, tap, or call in a gunsmith. 

The QD mount also allows you to attach and remove the red dot on a dime.

Is It Worth It?

The MEPRO MicroRDS is a mid-priced red dot with solid construction and reliable performance. 

Features:

• Fits all pistol platforms.
• Patented QD mount.
• Tritium backup sights.
• Wide sight window with anti-reflective coatings.

Summary

We recommend this optic for concealed carry because it is compact, rough, reliable, and has a huge field of view. It also has self-illuminated backup sights, just in case the optic fails in the field. Those qualities also make it well-suited for hunting and competition shooting.  

Pros:

• Wide FOV.
• Self-illuminated backup sights.
• Compact size. 
• Durable construction.
• QD mount.
• Compatible with any optic-ready pistol.
• Easy battery changes.

Cons:

• Only four brightness settings.

4. Burris FastFire III – Best Pistol Red Dot Sight for the Money

The Burris FastFire III is one of the most popular red dot optics on the market. The FastFire series has been around for what seems like forever. This is the third and most recent incarnation.

Reticle

The Burris FastFire III is available in 3 MOA and 8 MOA models. The reticles are fairly crisp, with only minimal blurring at the edge. 

Brightness

This red dot has three different brightness settings, so you can optimize visibility in a variety of shooting conditions. 

You will have to cycle through every setting with one button, which can be hard when you’re in a hurry. However, you can use the automatic brightness sensor, which will automatically adjust the brightness for the lighting environment, so you don’t have to fumble through the settings. 

What we love about the FastFire III’s illumination is the automatic time-out feature. After eight hours, the optic automatically powers down to conserve power. This one feature can help a single CR1632 battery last for up to five years. 

Glass Clarity

Burris uses high-grade optical glass in the FastFire III, which not only offers jaw-dropping brightness and clarity but also increases durability. 

The glass is covered in multiple layers of index-matched Hi-Lume coatings, which works to eliminate glare and improve low-light clarity. 

Although the FastFireeIII doesn’t have a night vision compatible brightness mode, this optic’s low light performance is one of the best we’ve tested. 

Durability

The FastFire III features a durable, shockproof design capable of withstanding years of brutal recoil. Its all-metal construction is well-suited for tough shooting environments. The optic is also completely waterproof and fogproof. 

Elevation and Windage Adjustments

Fine-tuning the optic is super easy. You can adjust windage and elevation in a snap, no special tools are necessary. 

Mounting and Compatibility

The FastFire III comes with a detachable Picatinny mount. The sight also mounts on the Glock MOS system. 

It will work seamlessly with most “optics ready” pistols. However, the included mounting hardware may not be the correct size for every handgun, so it is a smart idea to contact the gun manufacturer for specific hardware lengths for your model. 

Is It Worth It?

While you shouldn’t expect high-end performance from the Burris FastFire III, there’s a reason this model is one of the most popular red dots on the market today. With a price tag well under $300, this solid optic is packed with convenient features and has really impressive optical clarity.

Features:

• Automatic time-out feature. 
• Three brightness settings. 
• Automatic brightness adjustment. 
• High-grade, multi-coated optical glass.
• Easy windage and elevation adjustments. 
• Shockproof, waterproof design. 
• Covered by the Burris Forever Warranty.

Summary

Whether you need a red dot for your EDC handgun or your competition pistol, the Burris FastFire III should be a serious contender. 

Pros:

• Affordable price tag.
• Sturdy construction.
• Auto time-out feature.
• Auto brightness adjustment.
• Tool-free windage and elevation adjustments.
• Impressive clarity.

Cons:

• Only three brightness settings.

5. Leupold DeltaPoint Pro – Best Competition Pistol Red Dot Sight

Leupold is definitely a hotshot in the optics industry. Well-known for their high-end scopes and binoculars, Leupold delivers the same level of quality and performance in their DeltaPoint Pro red dot optic.

Reticle

The DeltaPoint Pro features a 2.5 MOA reticle that sits right in the sweet spot for competition shooting. Ideal for 3 Gun, the 2.5 MOA dot allows for serious precision when it counts, yet helps you get on target fast when seconds matter. 

The DeltaPoint Pro’s sight window is pretty massive for a pistol red dot. Measuring 1.05 x .71 inches and using a unique aspherical lens design, the DeltaPoint Pro provides a wide field of view for fast target acquisition. That ample FOV also makes tracking moving targets a breeze. 

Brightness

The DeltaPoint Pro features eight brightness settings. The highest setting is perfect for shooting in the afternoon sunshine, while the lowest is most visible at dawn and dusk. The optic also features a white phosphor setting that is night vision compatible.  

We aren’t huge fans of the adjustment button. Not only is the button mushy, but it also requires you to cycle through all the brightness settings to find the one you need. 

We are pretty excited about the battery-saving motion sensor technology that automatically deactivates illumination after a period of inactivity. It also reacts instantly to power up when movement is detected. We appreciate not having to fumble to switch on the optic in fast-paced, reactive shooting situations.

When you do need to change the battery, the tool-less, spring actuated battery compartment is conveniently located right on top of the optic. 

Glass Clarity

True to the company’s glass quality, the DeltaPoint Pro features a special DiamondCoat Aspheric Lens, which increases FOV by up to 56 percent while providing a scratch-resistant, crystal clear image.

The glass does have a slightly reddish tint, but we hardly noticed it after just a few shots. Honestly, the DeltaPoint PRO has some of the best image quality we’ve ever seen in a reflex sight.

Durability

This lightweight optic has a rugged, waterproof construction that makes it just as relevant for competition, hunting, and tactical shooting as it is for home defense.

While the housing is crafted from lightweight aluminum, Leupold added a hearty steel sheath that makes the DeltaPoint Pro virtually indestructible. 

It even features scratch-resistant lenses to ensure you have a clear sight picture for the life of the optic. 

Elevation and Windage Adjustments

The DeltaPoint Pro has an easy-to-use elevation dial on top of the optic. The windage adjustment dial is located on the side. Both provide simple 1 MOA adjustments per click. 

Adjustments are both audible and tactile, which made it super easy for us to keep up with. 

Mounting and Compatibility

Although some users report mounting difficulties with the DeltaPoint Pro, we did not share their experience. This one mounted on the Glock 19 MOS like they were made for each other. 

If you want to mount the DeltaPoint Pro on an AR with a Picatinny or Weaver rail, we recommend using the Deltapoint Pro Cross Slot Mount.

Is It Worth It?

The Leupold DelatPoint Pro is a high-performance red dot, and it definitely comes with a high-performance price tag. However, in the world of optics, it is usually true that you get what you pay for. It is certainly the case with this one. 

Although this model comes in at just under $500, it is well worth every cent. 

Features:

• Motion sensor technology.
• 8 brightness settings. 
• NVD compatible. 
• Tool-less, spring-actuated battery compartment. 
• Scratch-resistant lens. 
• Waterproof. 
• Covered by the Leupold Golden Ring Full Lifetime Warranty.

Summary

The Leupold DeltaPoint Pro is a professional-grade optic that performs flawlessly in the field. If you enjoy fast-paced, high-stakes competition, this red dot will quickly become your new best friend. 

Pros:

• Durable construction. 
• Night vision compatible.
• Extra-wide FOV. 
• Crystal clear sight picture. 
• Battery-saving motion sensor technology.

Cons:

• Single button for brightness adjustment.

6. Holosun HS507C – Best Pistol Red Dot for Astigmatism

Holosun red dots are some of our all-time favorite optics. The company uses the technology of an LED red dot and combines it with the best qualities of a holographic sight. And they somehow manage to do it for about $200 less than comparable holo models. 

Reticle

Red dot reticles are notoriously bad for shooters with astigmatism. However, the HS507C features Holosun’s patented Multi-Reticle System (MRS).

More than a basic dot, the MRS has a 32 MOA circle in addition to a 2MOA center point. Similar to a holographic sight, the larger reticle design works much better for those with astigmatism than a simple dot. 

You can even switch the reticle setting to choose from a dot only, ring only, or a dot/ring combo to meet your specific shooting needs.

The MRS reticle is also available in red, green, or gold. Not only is a green reticle more visible for daylight shooting, but it is also much more astigmatism-friendly. 

Brightness

The HS507C features 12 brightness settings – ten for daylight shooting and two additional settings that are night-vision compatible. 

Unlike holo sights (which have a reputation for eating batteries), the HS507C has several battery-saving features, including Shake Awake technology and a Solar Failsafe to provide up to 50,000 hours of use for each CR1632 lithium-ion battery. 

The onboard Shake Awake sensor instantly activates the LED when it detects even the slightest bit of motion. It really doesn’t take much to wake this thing up. We think “Whisper Awake” might be a better name for it.

Shake Awake also automatically turns off power during periods of inactivity. We love that we could program the amount of rest time it takes for the optic to power down.

The HS507C also features automatic brightness adjustment. It instantly adjusts reticle brightness for optimum visibility. That means you can easily move indoors from bright sunlight and never have to adjust reticle brightness.

The Solar Failsafe ensures you always have a backup power source, just in case your batteries die in the field. 

Glass Clarity

Holosun uses optical glass with multilayer coatings, which work to maximize light transmission and reduce glare. The result is excellent low-light visibility. The multi-coatings also protect the glass from wear and tear. 

The window measures 0.63 x 0.91 inches.

Durability

The HS507C is CNC machined with a 7075 aluminum housing and a hard-anodized exterior finish. It has an IPX8 waterproof rating, so this sight is more than capable of handling whatever rough use you can dish out.

Elevation and Windage Adjustments

The HS507C has windage and elevation adjustments located on the top and side of the optic. They adjust with .5 MOA clicks. However, there are no markings on the dials, so you’ll have to keep up with your adjustments. 

Another thing we appreciate about this optic is Holosun’s Lock Mode. When activated, this feature locks all the buttons to prevent accidental setting changes. 

Mounting and Compatibility

The Holosun HS507C comes with a low-profile Picatinny mount. You’ll need a Holosun 509 Adapter to add this one to your Glock MOS. 

Is It Worth It?

Whether you have astigmatism or not, the Holosun HS507C is an awesome reflex sight that is jam-packed with excellent features.

Features:

• 12 brightness settings (2 NVD compatible settings)
• Easy-to-use circle/dot reticle.
• Shake Awake Technology.
• Solar Failsafe. 
• Automatic brightness adjustment. 
• IPX8 waterproof rating.
• Lock Mode.
• Holosun Limited Lifetime Warranty

Summary

The Holosun HS507C is technically a red dot (it uses LEDs), but it performs more like a holographic sight. That means if you want the usability of a holo sight, but don’t have the cash to get one, this is the next best thing (whether you have astigmatism or not).

Pros:

• Multi-Reticle System is similar to more expensive holo sights.
• Sturdy construction.
• Shake Awake means the optic is always ready to go when you need it. 
• Solar backup power. 
• Lock Mode prevents accidental adjustments. 

Cons:

• No marks on windage or elevation dials.

Red Dots Vs. Iron Sights

Proper shooting with iron sights requires three points of alignment –  the rear sight, front sight post, and the target. All three points must be lined up properly to make an accurate shot. However, the human eye can only focus on one point in space at a time. 

When shooting with iron sights, the shooter should focus the eye on the front sight, leaving the rear sight and the target slightly blurred. Because that can be difficult, especially for inexperienced shooters in high-stress situations, the eye often jumps points of focus, flicking rapidly to each point of alignment. 

Target focus is essential in a life-or-death scenario. Adrenaline-soaked brains often tell our eyes to do just that, even if we’ve been trained to focus on the front sight. When we find ourselves in danger, human instinct will kick in, and our eyes will forget about our weapon sights and hyper-focus on the threat. This makes getting lead on target problematic in defensive shooting situations. 

Red dot sights allow you to maintain focus on the target. Because the dot is superimposed on the target, the eye only has to focus on one point in space. You simply place the dot on your target and pull the trigger.  

Are Red Dot Sights on Pistols Worth It?

Federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies around the globe have adopted red dots for their duty weapons. Competitive shooters have also embraced the red dot craze, as well as a growing number of civilian defensive shooters. 

Is it worth jumping on the red dot bandwagon? Let’s take a look at the pros and cons.

Advantages of Red Dots

• Easy to aim because there are no sights to align. 
• Allows you to easily shoot with both eyes open. 
• The larger size can hinder concealment.
• Better than iron sights for low-light shooting.
• Faster target acquisition.
• Improved accuracy.

Disadvantages of Red Dots

• Batteries can fail. 
• Can be difficult to use in bright sunlight. 
• Adds bulk that can hinder concealment.
• Expensive. 

Pistol Red Dot Sight FAQs

Should I co-witness a red dot pistol?

Co-witnessed iron sights can prevent you from using your red dot as a crutch, allowing you to practice proper iron sight alignment, even when you’re using your optic. They are also there for you to use, even if your red dot isn’t turned on. 

Co-witness simply means that your iron sights are aligned with your red dot reticle. When both are sighted correctly, they will line up or “co-witness” with each other as you line up your shot. 

Do I need iron sights with a red dot on my pistol?

While you don’t “need” iron sights with a pistol red dot, having them is just a smart idea. Electronic sights can fail and batteries run out. Iron sights always work. 

To prevent cluttering up your sight picture, keep your iron sights minimalistic. Blacked-out or subdued front and rear sights won’t distract your eye when you’re using your red dot. 

Which red dot works best with co-witness iron sights?

All of the red dot sights on our list work well with co-witnessed iron sights. 

Do red dots on pistols make you more accurate?

Red dots can improve shooting accuracy. They make sight alignment fast and intuitive. However, sight alignment is only one factor in the accuracy equation. 

To be consistently accurate, you should practice all of the shooting fundamentals, including stance, grip, trigger control, breathing, and follow-through.

What red dot does the military use on pistols?

The Trijicon RMR and the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro have both secured military contracts in the United States.

What is the best distance to zero a pistol red dot sight?

Most handgun shooters zero their red dots at either 15 or 25 yards. The need to engage targets with a pistol at distances greater than 25 yards doesn’t happen often. 

Zeroing at 15 or 25 yards will also allow you to hit your target at shorter ranges.  

Is it easier to shoot a pistol with a red dot?

While a red dot sight can help improve accuracy, there is a learning curve. Shooters new to the technology tend to focus on the reticle. 

When using a red dot, you should focus on the target and superimpose the reticle, placing it exactly where you want your shot to land. This can take some practice. 

Do Special Forces use red dots on their pistols?

Yes. The United States Special Operations Command (SOCOM) uses the Trijicon RMR Type 2 for its handguns.

Final Thoughts

Red dots make it easier and faster to line up sights with your target. As a result, a red dot can greatly improve your shooting accuracy. However, that doesn’t mean you won’t need to practice. 

Red dots aren’t a magic wand you wave to instantly be a better shooter. No matter which option you choose, you’ll want to spend some time at the range getting familiar with your new sight. Even with a quality red dot, you shouldn’t neglect practicing the fundamentals of pistol shooting. 

Although the red dots on our list run the gamut in terms of price range, they are all quality options. There should be something here to fit into every budget. Each of the best pistol red dot sights on our list offer reliable sighting solutions for your handgun, no matter what form of shooting you prefer.