1911 | Red Dot PROS & CONS

Published on August 31, 2024
Duration: 10:38

This guide details the process and considerations for adding a red dot sight to a 1911 pistol. It covers the necessity of slide milling, potential re-coating requirements, and crucial steps for securely mounting the optic, including the proper use of Loctite on both the mounting plate and optic screws. The video emphasizes the importance of aiming redundancy with suppressor height sights and highlights the permanent nature of this modification.

Quick Summary

Red-dotting a 1911 offers enhanced aiming capabilities, bringing a beloved firearm back into modern use. Key considerations include the permanent nature of the modification, the need for new holsters, potential slide re-coating, and an overall cost of $600-$800. Always use blue Loctite on optic mounting screws and do not rely solely on pre-applied thread locker.

Chapters

  1. 00:32Introduction: Red Dotting Your 1911
  2. 01:09Sponsor: Aura Internet Safety
  3. 02:10Pro #1: It's Awesome
  4. 02:51Pro #2: Gets Your 1911 Back in the Game
  5. 03:36How to Get Your 1911 Red Dot Ready
  6. 04:33Observations: Plate, Sights, and RMR Mount
  7. 06:25Cons of Red Dotting Your 1911
  8. 06:31Con #1: Re-coating the Slide
  9. 07:09Con #2: Need for New Holsters
  10. 08:12Con #3: Modification Cannot Be Undone
  11. 08:36Con #4: The Cost
  12. 08:58Conclusion: Is It Worth It?
  13. 09:23Additional Con: Cost of 45 ACP
  14. 09:38Kit Page & Affiliate Links

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main benefits of putting a red dot sight on a 1911?

Adding a red dot sight to a 1911 significantly enhances its aiming capability, making it a superior aiming system. This modification can bring a beloved 1911 back into active use, especially for those who have transitioned to exclusively using red dot sights on other firearms.

What are the key considerations before red-dotting a 1911?

Before red-dotting a 1911, consider the permanent nature of the modification, the need for new holsters, potential slide re-coating costs if not stainless steel, and the overall expense which can range from $600-$800.

How should red dot mounting screws be secured on a 1911?

When mounting a red dot optic to a 1911, it's crucial to use blue Loctite (e.g., 242) on the optic mounting screws. Do not rely solely on pre-applied thread locker, as it can fail after a few rounds, leading to the optic loosening.

Are there any drawbacks to permanently modifying a 1911 for a red dot?

Yes, permanently milling a 1911 slide for a red dot means losing the rear sight dovetail and the ability to use a cover plate. This modification cannot be undone, and you will need to purchase new holsters designed for suppressor height sights.

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