What is the Best Glock 43 Red Dot? π΄
The Glock 43 is a subcompact 9mm pistol that was introduced by Glock in 2015. It is their smallest 9mm pistol and was designed for concealed carry use. It has a slim profile making it easy to conceal while still maintaining a 6+1 round capacity. In recent years, many owners have chosen to mount miniature red dot sights onto their pistols.
Adding a red dot sight provides faster target acquisition and improved accuracy compared to traditional iron sights. The small size of the pistol makes finding the right variant challenging, but companies like Shield RMSc and Holosun have released mini models perfect for this pistol. The combination of the easy-to-conceal gun and a low-profile red dot has made this one of the most popular concealed carry setups on the market today.
Benefits π₯
- π― Faster target acquisition and transitions between targets due to easy visibility of RD.
- π Improved accuracy at longer distances compared to iron sights.
- ποΈ They allow the shooter to keep both eyes open for increased situational awareness.
- π Low-profile RDs add minimal bulk and remain concealable.
- π€ They can be used with one-hand injury or weak-hand shooting.
Features β
- π« G43 is a slim 9mm subcompact pistol ideal for concealed carry.
- π― Typical RDs mounted are minimal designs like the Shield RMSc.
- βοΈ Weighs only 18 oz unloaded for comfortable all-day carry.
- π Stock sights co-witness with most RDs.
- π Standard 6+1 9mm capacity with optional extended mags available.
- π§ Available in several slide cuts to accept mounting different RD sights.
- π οΈ Can be modified with stippling and other upgrades for enhanced control.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Red Dot Sight π
β‘οΈ Here are some factors to consider when choosing:
- π Size: Since the gun is a subcompact pistol, you’ll want a small RDS that doesn’t add too much bulk. Look for micro or mini RD sights.
- βοΈ Weight: Adding too much weight to the slide can affect the cycling and balance of the pistol. Look for lightweight RD sights made of aluminum or polymer.
- π¨ Durability: The RD needs to withstand recoil from a 9mm round. Look for dots made for handguns. Features like auto-brightness help with longevity.
- π§ Mounting: You’ll need to find an RD that fits the slide cut on your gun. Some opt for direct milling the slide for a specific dot. Others use mounting plates for red dots like the Shield RMSc.
- ποΈ Co-Witness: Being able to see your iron sights through the RD window is preferred for backup sighting. Lower 1/3 co-witness is common for microdots on the 43.
- π Battery Life: Long battery life reduces the need to change it often. Look for dots with at least 1 year of constant on life. Automatically turning on when moved helps conserve battery.
- π° Price: They range from around $200 into the $500+ range. Set a budget that fits your needs. Quality dots don’t have to be expensive.
π Choosing the right RD sight for your gun comes down to finding the best features and fit for your intended concealed carry needs.
Best π Glock 43 Red Dot Reviews
#1 Trijicon RMRcc Adjustable Red Dot Sight
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Experience the utmost precision with the 6.5 MOA reticle, providing you with an illuminated aiming point that keeps your focus sharp and accurate. Whether you’re on the range during daylight or hunting at night, the Trijicon RMRcc ensures you hit your mark.
Crafted from high-quality 7075 aluminum, it is built to withstand the harshest conditions. Its unique housing shape diverts impact force away from the lens, increasing its durability. Plus, the thinner, snag-free design ensures a smooth draw, making it ideal for concealed carry pistols. It features eight brightness settings, including two-night vision modes, and even a button “lock-out” mode for everyday carry. You have complete control over the illumination, ensuring clear visibility in any environment.
No need for special tools. It offers tool-less windage and elevation adjustments, allowing you to fine-tune your shots on the fly. It’s perfect for competitive shooting, target practice, and self-defense situations. Equipped with a common CR2032 battery, it boasts an impressive four-year battery life at setting 4. You can trust it to be ready when you need it most.
#2 Shield Sights Compact Reflex Mini Red Dot Sight
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The 8 MOA red dot is ideal for rapid target acquisition, allowing you to quickly and accurately align your shot with the target. No more struggling to find your target through traditional iron sights β it makes it effortless.
Crafted from aerospace-grade aluminum, it is built to withstand the rigors of shooting while remaining lightweight and easy to handle. Its matte black finish not only adds to its aesthetics but also reduces glare, ensuring your focus stays on the target.
Equipped with a CR2032 battery, it provides up to 3 years of continuous use on average. You can trust it to perform when you need it most, whether you’re out in the field or at the range. The automatic brightness adjustment ensures optimal visibility, even in varying lighting conditions. It is designed to fit a wide range of pistols, including concealed carry handguns like the Glock 43, Smith & Wesson Shield, and 1911. Its versatility means you can use it with your favorite firearm.
#3 Holosun HS507K-X2 Sub-compact Red Dot Sight
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It boasts a 2 MOA dot reticle, ensuring your shots land exactly where you aim. No more second-guessing; every shot is spot-on. Whether you’re in a high-pressure competition or a self-defense situation, it will give you the edge you need.
In the world of fast-paced shooting, speed matters. It delivers with its unlimited eye relief and parallax-free design. Quickly acquire your target and take that shot with confidence. Your reflexes will thank you.
Crafted from rugged 7075 aluminum, it can withstand the harshest conditions. It’s waterproof, so rain or shine, it will perform flawlessly. Plus, it features Multilayer Reflective Glass, ensuring maximum light transmission and minimal glare for a crystal-clear sight picture.
With up to 50,000 hours of battery life, you won’t have to worry about constantly changing batteries. It is always ready when you are, thanks to Shake Awake technology, which powers on the optic with movement and powers it off when not in use. It offers versatile mounting options, so you can customize your setup to suit your needs perfectly. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference.
#4 Holosun HS407K-X2 Sub-compact Red Dot Sights
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Features a 6 MOA red dot reticle, providing quick and precise target acquisition. Whether you’re at the range or in a high-pressure situation, this red dot sight ensures you hit your mark with ease.
With Shake Awake motion technology, it boasts an impressive battery life of up to 50,000 hours. You can rely on it for extended periods without worrying about frequent battery changes.
Tailor your sight’s brightness to your environment with 10 illumination settings. Additionally, it offers two-night vision settings for tactical operations, ensuring versatility in various shooting conditions.
Enjoy a parallax-free view and unlimited eye relief, providing a comfortable and intuitive shooting experience. Focus on your target without straining your eyes or worrying about parallax errors. Crafted from 7075-T6 aluminum with a sleek anodized finish, it is built to last. It can withstand rugged use and harsh conditions, making it an ideal companion for both indoor and outdoor shooting.
#5 Holosun HS507C-X2 Reflex Red Dot Sight
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The HS507C-X2 features multi-coated lenses that ensure clear views in various lighting conditions. Whether you’re at the range or out in the field, you’ll have an unobstructed view of your target, improving your shooting accuracy.
With unlimited eye relief, this reflex sight provides maximum comfort during extended shooting sessions. Say goodbye to eye strain and discomfort as you practice and protect with ease.
It offers some exciting upgrades over its predecessor. It includes Lock Mode, which prevents accidental operation, and an ergonomic button layout for easy access. These features are designed to make your shooting experience smoother and more intuitive.
Enjoy up to 50,000 hours of battery life, so you can rely on it during your most extended shooting sessions. With 12 brightness settings and multiple reticle options, you can customize your sight to match your ambient lighting conditions. Plus, two settings are compatible with night vision devices, adding versatility to your setup.
#6 Crimson Trace CT-RAD Micro Pro Red Dot Sight
Designed for compact and subcompact firearms, it offers a 3 MOA aiming dot, making it ideal for quick and accurate target acquisition. Its recessed and fully multi-coated lens provides a large, clear window for aiming, giving you an edge in any shooting scenario.
It features the CT RADIANT Ambient Light Sensor, automatically adjusting the aiming dot’s brightness to match your surroundings. Whether you’re in bright daylight or low-light conditions, it ensures optimal visibility.
With the CT MOTION Sensor, it comes to life as soon as you pick up your firearm. It powers off after 2 minutes of inactivity, preserving battery life and ensuring it’s always ready when you are.
Crafted from aerospace-grade aluminum, it is exceptionally durable and 30% stronger than industry-standard sights. It can withstand the rigors of shooting and even accidental drops, thanks to its innovative top strap design that minimizes stress on the lens.
#7 Swampfox Sentinel 1x16mm Ultra Compact Micro Dot Sight
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Unlike other models that rely on plastic components, it is built to last. It’s constructed from hard-coated 7075 Aluminum and features multi-coated glass, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of daily use without succumbing to scratches, cracks, or breaks.
It boasts an intelligent photosensitive sensor that automatically adjusts the brightness of the dot based on your environment. This means you’ll always have a clear and easily visible dot, whether you’re shooting in bright daylight or low-light conditions.
With Shake ‘N Wake technology, it is always ready to perform. It activates at the slightest movement, ensuring you’re never caught off guard when you need to take a shot.
Designed for slimline pistol slides, it is a seamless addition to your firearm. Its compact size won’t obstruct your view, allowing for quick target acquisition and precise shots.
The 3 MOA dot reticle offers exceptional accuracy, helping you hit your target with pinpoint precision. Whether you’re a competitive shooter or a responsible gun owner, it will significantly improve your shooting experience.
#8 Vortex Venom Red Dot Sight
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Features a 3 MOA dot reticle that ensures pinpoint accuracy, allowing you to hit your target with incredible precision. Whether you’re at the range or out in the field, it guarantees that you won’t miss a shot.
With unlimited eye relief and a wide field of view, it allows for lightning-fast target acquisition. You’ll be able to acquire your target quickly, even in high-stress situations, giving you the edge when it matters most.
Crafted from high-quality aluminum alloy, it is built to withstand heavy recoil and tough conditions. It’s also waterproof and shockproof, ensuring that it can handle any environment you find yourself in.
Choose from 10 brightness settings to match your surroundings perfectly. Whether it’s a bright, sunny day or a low-light scenario, you can adjust the reticle’s brightness for optimal visibility.
The battery loads from the top, allowing you to change batteries without removing the sight from your firearm. This practical design feature ensures that you won’t waste precious time fumbling with your equipment.
#9 Sig Sauer Romeo Zero Red Dot Sight
It features a SpectraCoat HD Polymer Lens that provides exceptional clarity and 10 times the impact resistance of traditional glass lenses. This means you’ll have a crisp, clear view of your target, even in challenging conditions. Whether you’re at the range or out in the field, you can trust it to give you the edge.
Crafted with a weapons-grade Ultralite Polymer housing, the Romeo Zero is designed for durability without adding unnecessary weight to your firearm. It’s perfect for concealed carry and slim slide profiles like single-stack 1911s and sub-compact handguns. The stippling pattern on the housing even matches the grip pattern of the SIG P365 and P365XL, giving your setup an integrated and cohesive look.
One of the standout features is its Motion Activated Illumination System (MOTAC). This technology senses motion and automatically powers up the sight when you need it, conserving battery life when you don’t. You’ll enjoy 8 user-configurable daytime illumination levels and a parallax-free, highly efficient LED emitter for a sharp and efficient dot.
With a remarkable 20,000-hour battery life, you can trust it to perform reliably during extended shooting sessions. You won’t have to worry about constantly changing batteries, allowing you to focus on honing your skills.
#10 Burris FastFire II Reflex Red Dot Sight
Designed for quick and precise target acquisition, it eliminates the need to align front and rear sights. Say goodbye to the struggle of focusing on multiple points; with it, your aiming dot and target are always in perfect alignment. It’s the ideal choice for situations that demand rapid reaction times, such as close-range hunting, tactical shooting, and competitive sports.
Crafted from durable materials and featuring advanced circuitry, it can withstand even the most powerful recoil forces, up to 1000 G’s. So, whether you’re using it on a shotgun, rifle, or handgun, you can trust it to perform consistently.
It is equipped with an intelligent light sensor that automatically adjusts the brightness of the 4 MOA red dot reticle based on ambient light conditions. This means you’ll always have optimal visibility, whether you’re in low-light settings or under the bright sun.
With unlimited eye relief and a wide field of view, it offers exceptional flexibility. Use it on handguns, rifles, shotguns, and more. Plus, its user-friendly design includes an on/off switch and built-in battery saver to extend the life of the CR2032 battery.
#11 Burris FastFire Reflex Red-Dot Sight Mounting Plate
Crafted with precision, these mounting plates are designed to seamlessly fit all Weaver-style and Picatinny-style bases. Installing them on your firearm is a breeze, ensuring quick and hassle-free setup, so you can spend more time focusing on your target.
It is engineered for surefire performance in tactical situations. Whether you’re in a high-pressure scenario or honing your skills at the range, these plates provide a stable platform for your red-dot sight, ensuring that your shots hit their mark consistently.
Available in a range of models, these mounting plates are tailored to fit the most common firearms, including models from Glock, Beretta, and more. This versatility allows you to find the perfect fit for your specific firearm, enhancing your shooting experience.
Constructed from high-quality aluminum, these mounting plates are built to withstand the rigors of intense shooting sessions and adverse weather conditions. The matte black finish adds both durability and a touch of style to your firearm setup.
Rest easy with the Burris Forever Warranty. It stands by the quality of its products, offering a warranty that covers any damage or defects. This warranty is automatically transferred to future owners, ensuring that your investment is protected for years to come.
How to Install a Red Dot Sight on Glock 43 π§
β‘οΈ Here are the typical steps to install an RD sight:
β Supplies Needed:
- βοΈ Red dot sight
- βοΈ Mounting plate (if needed)
- βοΈ Screwdriver
- βοΈ Threadlocker
βοΈ Installation:
- βοΈ Clear the pistol: Remove the magazine and visually inspect the chamber to confirm it is unloaded.
- βοΈ Field strip the slide: Lock the slide back and disassemble the slide from the frame per instructions.
- βοΈ Prepare the slide: Remove any existing sights or covers from the top of the slide. Clean and degrease the slide.
- βοΈ Install mounting plate: If using an RMSc-type shield, attach the mounting plate with screws using a thread locker.
- βοΈ Mount the red dot: Place the RD sight on the slide or plate and install using the provided screws with thread locker. Torque the screws to the dot manufacturer’s specs.
- βοΈ Confirm proper alignment: Before reassembling, look through the dot and check alignment and centering on the slide. Adjust as needed.
- βοΈ Reassemble slide: Lock the slide back on the frame and function check the pistol, ensuring proper cycling and slide lock back.
- βοΈ Confirm zero: At the range, fire a 3-5 shot group to confirm the red dot zero. Make any windage/elevation adjustments needed.
FAQ π
Conclusion π
π₯ The Best Glock 43 Red Dot can be a great addition to your arsenal for self-defense. It allows you to quickly and accurately acquire your target, which could mean the difference between life and death in a critical situation.
π Weβve provided some product reviews of some of the most popular red dots on the market so that you can make an informed decision about which one is best for you. Consider what factors are important to you when making your purchase, such as price, size, weight, features, and customer reviews. Good shopping and thanks for reading! π€
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The Holosun HS507K-X2 Sub-Compact Red Dot Sight seems perfect for competition, but how’s the battery life in real-world use? Any issues with brightness adjustments during matches?
π The Holosun HS507K-X2 has a battery life of up to 50,000 hours on the medium setting (brightness 6). This means that you can leave the sight on for over 8 years before you need to change the battery. However, in real-world use, the battery life may be shorter, depending on the brightness setting you use and how often you use the shake awake feature.
π Some users have reported that the brightness adjustments can be a bit finicky during matches. This is because the sight has 12 brightness settings, and it can be difficult to find the right setting quickly. However, most users say that they get used to the brightness adjustments after a few uses.
π Overall, it is a great red dot sight for competitions. It has a long battery life, a clear sight picture, and a variety of features that make it ideal for competitive shooting. However, some users have reported that the brightness adjustments can be a bit finicky during matches.
I’ve noticed that my Holosun HS407K-X2 sometimes struggles in extremely bright conditions. Has anyone else experienced this, and are there any solutions?
βοΈ Yes, some people have reported that the Holosun HS407K-X2 can struggle in extremely bright conditions. This is because the sight uses a traditional red dot emitter, which can be washed out by bright sunlight.
β‘οΈ There are a few things you can do to improve the visibility of the sight in bright conditions:
How do these red dot sights perform under rainy or wet conditions?
π΄ Most red dot sights are designed to be waterproof and fogproof, so they can perform well in rainy or wet conditions.
β‘οΈ However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
βοΈ Even with a properly sealed and mounted sight, you may still experience some problems shooting in the rain. Raindrops can distort the sight picture, and condensation can form on the lens.
β‘οΈ To minimize these problems, try the following tips:
πΆ Shoot with both eyes open. This will help you to see the target more clearly and to ignore the raindrops.
πΆ Use a sight with a large viewing window. This will give you a wider field of view and make it easier to see the target.
πΆ Clean the lens regularly. Wipe away any raindrops or condensation with a soft cloth.
π With a little care, you can use it in the rain without any problems.
How does the battery life of the Shield Sights Compact Reflex Mini compare to the Holosun models?
π The battery life of the Shield Sights Compact Reflex Mini is 2 to 3 years, while the battery life of the Holosun models varies depending on the model. The Holosun 507K has a battery life of 20,000 hours (which is about 2.3 years) in auto mode and 50,000 hours (about 5.5 years) in manual mode. The Holosun 407K has a battery life of 15,000 hours (about 1.8 years) in auto mode and 30,000 hours (about 3.3 years) in manual mode.
ππ So, the Holosun models have a longer battery life than the Shield Sights Compact Reflex Mini. However, it is important to note that the battery life will also depend on how often you use the sight and how bright the setting is.
I appreciate the detailed breakdown of factors to consider when choosing a red dot sight. It helped me make an informed decision.
he Holosun HS507K-X2 has been a game-changer for me. The battery life is impressive, and the Shake Awake technology ensures it’s always ready when I need it.
I’ve been using the Trijicon RMRcc for about a year now, and it’s been fantastic. The brightness settings are especially helpful during different times of the day.