Red Dots on Pistols The Good & The Bad

Published on August 29, 2017
Duration: 17:26

This video provides a comprehensive overview of the pros and cons of mounting red dot sights on pistols, targeting skeptics and those open to the idea. The instructor, with experience using a Trijicon RMR, discusses the learning curve, cost, battery reliance, and potential failure points, while also highlighting the significant advantages in speed, accuracy, low-light performance, and sight picture.

Quick Summary

Red dot sights on pistols offer significant advantages in speed and accuracy by allowing the shooter to focus on the target and place the dot directly on it. They also improve low-light performance and provide a wider field of view compared to traditional iron sights. However, downsides include cost, battery reliance, and potential slide modification.

Chapters

  1. 00:55Introduction: Red Dots on Pistols
  2. 01:11The Purists vs. Skeptics vs. Open-Minded
  3. 02:27Trijicon RMR 6.5 MOA Dot Overview
  4. 03:16Downside: Training Curve for Red Dots
  5. 05:27Downside: Cost of Red Dot Optics
  6. 06:11Slide Work and Universal Mounts
  7. 07:10Downside: Battery Dependence and Failure
  8. 07:49Mitigating Battery Failure: Backup Sights
  9. 08:32The Future: Red Dots on Pistols
  10. 09:03Pro: Unmatched Speed and Effectiveness
  11. 09:46Parallax Considerations with Red Dots
  12. 11:25Pro: Increased Low-Light Performance
  13. 12:14Pro: Windage and Elevation Adjustability
  14. 13:06Pro: Improved Sight Picture and Peripheral Vision
  15. 14:02Co-Witnessing Night Sights with Red Dots
  16. 15:37Personal Opinion and Future Outlook
  17. 16:34Conclusion: Positives Outweigh Negatives

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main advantages of using a red dot sight on a pistol?

Red dot sights on pistols offer significant advantages in speed and accuracy by allowing the shooter to focus on the target and place the dot directly on it. They also improve low-light performance and provide a wider field of view compared to traditional iron sights.

What are the primary downsides to red dot sights on pistols?

The main downsides include the cost of quality optics, the reliance on batteries that can fail, and the potential need for slide modification. Some users also note a slight learning curve, though this is often mitigated by proficiency with the firearm.

How does parallax affect red dot sights on pistols?

Parallax is a factor, but on quality red dots like the Trijicon RMR, it's minimal at typical defensive ranges (3-7 yards). Even with slight aiming errors due to parallax, shots will generally remain within a few inches of the intended point of impact.

Is it necessary to have backup sights with a pistol red dot?

Yes, it is highly recommended to have backup sights, such as suppressor height iron sights, that co-witness with the red dot. This ensures you have a reliable aiming solution if the red dot's battery dies or the optic fails.

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