The right Red Dots Sight on Glock can enhance the comfort and performance of your handgun. There are many different models available now, and making a choice isn’t as easy as picking a popular model.
Before deciding on a particular type, consider factors like battery life, durability, optic type, overall size, mounting footprint, and compatibility with the Glock.
There are lots of popular options like the Trijicon RMR Type 2, Aimpoint ACRO P-2, Holosun EPS, Holosun EPS Carry, Holosun 507C X2, Leupold DeltaPoint Pro, and the Vortex Defender-ST, with various features for various preferences.
Here, we’ll look at some of the best red dot sights for Glock pistols, and discuss the main specs, pros, and cons of each.
Knowing what to look for and what is compatible with your Glock and how you need to mount it can help you pick the right optic for you, regardless of whether you use a Glock MOS or not.
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| 1) Trijicon RMR Type 2 |  |
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| 2) Aimpoint ACRO P-2 |  |
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| 3) Holosun EPS |  |
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| 4) Holosun EPS Carry |  |
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| 5) Holosun 507C X2 |  |
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| 6) Leupold DeltaPoint Pro |  |
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| 7) Vortex Defender-ST |  |
What Is a Red Dot Sight for Glock?
A Glocks Red Dot Sight is a small optic aiming sight that attaches to the Glock directly to give the gun a bright, clear aiming point.
The term “red dot” means that the shooter is able to focus on the target and use the red dot as a reference point for aiming, unlike the traditional iron sights. Red dot sights come in open emitter, enclosed emitter, various sizes of reticle, mounting footprint, and battery system.
There are numerous popular optics compatible with Glock MOS models that can be used by using an adapter plate, however, if you have a standard slide you may need to have it professionally machined.
The most popular Glock compatible sight that is available is the Trijicon RMR Type 2, Aimpoint ACRO P-2, and Holosun EPS.
Why Use a Red Dot Sight on a Glock?
A red dot sight on a Glock can offer an illuminated, accurate and clear aiming point that might seem easier to target than the traditional iron sight.
The optic lets the shooter remain focused on the target while setting up the dot and aligning it with the target.
Red dots can also improve eye-to-eye shooting and provide a wider field of view and more awareness of one’s surroundings.
Today’s pistol optics come in a variety of compact, lightweight and rugged designs that include long battery life and enclose the emitter. Compatible optics for Glock MOS models can also be mounted by using the right-size adapter plate.
How Does a Red Dot Sight Work on a Glock?
A red dot sight on a Glock uses an LED emitter to project a small illuminated reticle onto the optic’s lens. The lens reflects the light back toward the shooter, making the dot appear to sit on the target without requiring traditional front and rear sight alignment.
When the pistol is properly zeroed, placing the dot on the intended point of aim provides a consistent sight reference.
Red dot sights can be used with both eyes open, allowing the shooter to maintain a wider field of view. The optic is mounted to the Glock slide using a compatible footprint, adapter plate, or slide cut.
Red Dot Sight on Glock
1) Trijicon RMR Type 2
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The Trijicon RMR Type 2 is one of the longest-running Glock red dot sights especially for those who prefer a compact red dot sight with a proven track record.
Rugged aluminum housing will take the stresses of handgun usage, and the compact design will prevent the optic adding excessive bulk to the slide.
RMR Type 2 is offered in various dot sizes and configurations, giving users the option to choose one that best fits the application(s) they are using.
Built on the RMR footprint for Glock MOS models (and an appropriate mounting plate is needed). It can also be mounted on a Glock that has a compatible custom slide cut.
Optic also offers an easy to see aiming point, which can be used with both eyes open, so it can be used for quick target acquisition, as well as for seeing the surrounding field of view.
Key Specs
- Optic type: Open-emitter red dot
- Footprint: Trijicon RMR
- Construction: Forged aluminum housing
- Reticle options: Multiple dot sizes available
- Battery: CR2032
- Battery life: Up to approximately 4 years, depending on settings and model
- Adjustment: Windage and elevation
- Glock compatibility: Glock MOS with appropriate plate or compatible RMR-cut slide
Pros:
- Rugged construction
- Proven RMR mounting footprint
- Compact profile
- Multiple reticle options
- Suitable for both-eyes-open shooting
Cons:
- Open-emitter design can expose the lens area to debris
- Requires the correct mounting plate or slide cut
- Design: Compact and rugged
2) Aimpoint ACRO P-2
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The Aimpoint ACRO P-2 is a very compact enclosed emitter red dot sight that fits handguns, and is an interesting choice for Glock handguns with a compatible mounting system.
Unlike conventional open-emitter optics, the ACRO P-2 is completely closed around the LED emitter, which is helpful to prevent dust, moisture and debris from entering the optical system.
For those who wish to build with an enclosed construction, this is often of great value.The ACRO P-2 includes a distinct red aiming dot and has a small profile to fit the profile of a Glock slide.
It has a tough, rugged aluminum case and the enclosed optical system adds some protection over open-emitter designs.
This optic mounts using an ACRO mounting footprint, and requires an ACRO compatible adaptor plate for Glock MOS users, or an ACRO-cut for custom-milled slides.
Key Specs:
- Optic type: Enclosed-emitter red dot
- Footprint: Aimpoint ACRO
- Reticle: 3.5 MOA red dot
- Battery: CR2032
- Battery life: Up to 50,000 hours
- Housing: High-strength aluminum
- Water resistance: Submersible to 35 meters
- Adjustment: Windage and elevation
- Glock compatibility: Requires an ACRO-compatible plate or slide cut
Pros:
- Fully enclosed emitter
- Excellent protection from dust and debris
- Long battery life
- Rugged construction
- Compact handgun-oriented design
Cons:
- Larger and heavier than some open-emitter pistol optics
- Requires an ACRO-compatible mounting solution
3) Holosun EPS
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The Holosun EPS is a small enclosed-emitter red dot sight for modern semi auto pistols, such as Glock models that have the proper mounting system.
It is enclosed and immune to dust, moisture and debris, unlike traditional designs with open emitters. The EPS is also low-profile, which is ideal for many pistol slides and ensures a good sight picture.
Comes in various reticle and configuration available, and users can select the one which suits their needs and tastes.
Can include a 2 MOA dot with a 32 MOA circle option, for instance, which offers a flexible aiming pattern, and the bigger viewing window can assist in acquiring the dot.
With Glock MOS, compatibility will depend on the type of EPS model and mounting plate used, so it may be necessary to check the foot plate and the adapter specifications prior to installation.
Key Specs:
- Optic type: Enclosed-emitter red dot
- Footprint: Holosun-K footprint
- Reticle options: 2 MOA dot / 32 MOA circle-dot on applicable models
- Battery: CR1620 on standard EPS models
- Battery life: Up to 50,000 hours on applicable settings
- Housing: 7075-T6 aluminum
- Window size: Approximately 0.90 × 0.63 inches
- Adjustment: Windage and elevation
- Glock compatibility: Requires the appropriate mounting plate or compatible slide cut
Pros:
- Enclosed emitter protects against debris
- Compact and low-profile design
- Long battery life
- Clear and versatile reticle options
- Durable aluminum construction
Cons:
- Requires the correct mounting solution
- Smaller window than some full-size pistol optics
4) Holosun EPS Carry
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The Holosun EPS Carry is a compact enclosed-emitter red dot sight designed primarily for slimline and concealed-carry handguns.
Its small footprint and low-profile design make it an option for compatible Glock models, particularly when paired with the appropriate mounting plate or a slide cut designed for its footprint.
Unlike open-emitter optics, the EPS Carry encloses the LED emitter, helping reduce exposure to dust, dirt, and moisture.
Features a clear viewing window and is available in several reticle configurations, including models with a 2 MOA dot and 32 MOA circle.
Depending on the version, it can also incorporate Holosun’s solar-assist technology to help extend battery life. The EPS Carry uses a side-loading battery compartment, allowing the battery to be replaced without removing the optic from the pistol.
Key Specs:
- Optic type: Enclosed-emitter red dot
- Footprint: Holosun-K footprint
- Reticle: 2 MOA dot / 32 MOA circle-dot options
- Battery: CR1620
- Battery life: Up to approximately 50,000 hours on applicable models/settings
- Housing: 7075-T6 aluminum
- Window size: Approximately 0.77 × 0.58 inches
- Adjustment: Windage and elevation
- Glock compatibility: Requires the appropriate adapter plate or compatible slide cut
Pros:
- Enclosed emitter helps protect against debris
- Compact and lightweight design
- Side-loading battery compartment
- Long battery life
- Multiple reticle configurations
Cons:
- Smaller viewing window than some full-size optics
- Requires the correct mounting solution
5) Holosun 507C X2
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The Holosun 507C X2 is a small open-emitter red dot sight that is versatile, making it suitable for full-size and compact handgun applications.
On Glock pistols it can be installed on the gun using the Glock compatibility mounting plate or on a slide with a machined RMR footprint. The small size of its housing offers a good balance of robustness, visibility and volume.
One of its distinguishing characteristics is Holosun’s Multi-Reticle System (MRS), which allows the user to choose from a variety of reticle options, such as a 2 MOA dot, 32 MOA circle, or a mix of both.
Optic also has Solar Failsafe for when needed to help the solar cell charge the battery in appropriate lighting conditions; this feature is included with suitable versions.
Can be activated by the Shake Awake technology if the movement is detected, which will assist in battery conservation while storing.
Key Specs:
- Optic type: Open-emitter red dot
- Footprint: Trijicon RMR
- Reticle: 2 MOA dot / 32 MOA circle / circle-dot
- Battery: CR1632
- Battery life: Up to 50,000 hours, depending on settings
- Housing: 7075-T6 aluminum
- Window size: Approximately 0.63 × 0.91 inches
- Adjustment: Windage and elevation
- Features: Solar Failsafe and Shake Awake
- Glock compatibility: Glock MOS with suitable RMR plate or compatible RMR-cut slide
Pros:
- Multiple reticle choices
- Durable aluminum construction
- Long battery life
- Solar and motion-activation features
- Widely supported RMR footprint
Cons:
- Open emitter can collect debris
- Requires the correct mounting plate or slide cut
6) Leupold DeltaPoint Pro
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The Leupold DeltaPoint Pro is a compact open-emitter red dot sight designed for handguns and other firearm platforms.
Its relatively large viewing window and low-profile design make it a popular option for pistol applications where fast dot acquisition is important.
On compatible Glock pistols, the DeltaPoint Pro can be installed using the appropriate adapter plate or a slide specifically cut for the DeltaPoint Pro footprint.
Features a clear red aiming dot and a lightweight aluminum housing designed to withstand regular use.
One useful feature is its tool-less spring-loaded battery compartment, which allows the battery to be replaced without removing the optic from the slide.
The DeltaPoint Pro is available with different reticle sizes, depending on the specific model, giving users some flexibility when selecting an optic for their Glock.
Key Specs:
- Optic type: Open-emitter red dot
- Footprint: DeltaPoint Pro
- Reticle: 2.5 MOA or 6 MOA options, depending on model
- Battery: CR2032
- Battery life: Up to approximately 1,600 hours
- Housing: Aluminum
- Adjustment: Windage and elevation
- Weight: Approximately 1.95 oz
- Glock compatibility: Requires the appropriate MOS adapter plate or compatible DeltaPoint Pro slide cut
Pros:
- Large, easy-to-acquire viewing window
- Lightweight and compact
- Tool-less battery replacement
- Durable construction
- Multiple dot-size options
Cons:
- Open emitter can be exposed to dust and debris
- Battery life is shorter than some competing pistol optics
7) Vortex Defender-ST
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The Vortex Defender-ST is a compact open-emitter red dot sight designed specifically for modern handgun applications.
Its small footprint and rugged construction make it a practical option for compatible Glock pistols, including Glock MOS models when paired with the correct mounting plate.
Features a low-profile design intended to reduce bulk while providing a clear sight picture for rapid dot acquisition.
Defender-ST uses a bright red dot and incorporates several features designed for handgun use, including Fast-Rack Texturing, which provides additional contact points on the optic housing, and ShockShield technology, designed to help protect the electronics from impacts and recoil.
Its top-load battery compartment also allows battery replacement without removing the optic from the slide.
Key Specs:
- Optic type: Open-emitter red dot
- Footprint: Shield RMS footprint
- Reticle: 3 MOA or 6 MOA, depending on model
- Battery: CR2032
- Battery life: Up to approximately 25,000 hours, depending on brightness settings
- Housing: Aluminum alloy
- Adjustment: Windage and elevation
- Weight: Approximately 1.48 oz
- Window size: Approximately 0.78 × 0.58 inches
- Glock compatibility: Requires the appropriate mounting plate or compatible slide cut
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design
- Bright, clear aiming dot
- Convenient top-loading battery
- Rugged construction
- Multiple dot-size options
- Designed specifically for handgun applications
Cons:
- Open emitter can collect dust and debris
- Smaller viewing window than some larger pistol optics
Factors to Consider When Choosing The Best Red Dots Sight on Glock
There are a number of important factors to consider when selecting a red dot sight for a Glock. Optics vary in size, mounting systems, durability and features, so take these into account to choose one that suits the requirements.
- Glock Compatibility
First, it is important to determine if the optic is available for your Glock model and slide. Glock MOS pistols must use the correct adapter plate; Custom cut slides must have a matching optic footprint.
- Footprint and Mounting
Red dots are applied with various footprints—such as RMR, ACRO, Holosun-K and DeltaPoint Pro patterns. Use the same standard for secure use of sight and mounting plate or slide cut.
- Optic Type
Decide your preference between open or closed emitter. All open emitter sights (like the RMR Type 2 and 507C X2) tend to be smaller, and enclosed types (like the ACRO P-2 or the EPS) offer more protection around the emitter.
- Size and design of the reticle.
The options for the reticle will determine how the aiming point looks. Smaller dots can be used for precise targeting, and larger dots or circle-dot reticles can help to find a target quickly. Select a configuration that meets the needs of the purpose.
- Battery Life
A long battery life means you can get a battery to last longer between replacement. Extended battery life on models like ACRO P-2, EPS and 507C X2, but battery life varies by brightness and operation.
- Size and Weight
A small, light optic will help keep the overall balance and profile of the Glock. When selecting, consult sizes and weight.
- Budget
Last, but not least, take into account your budget. High-end optics can have more sophisticated functions, while more budget-friendly ones can deliver adequate performance and vital functions.
FAQs
- Can you put a red dot sight on a Glock?
Yes. Many Glock models can be fitted with a red dot sight. Glock MOS models are designed to accept optics using the appropriate adapter plate, while non-MOS slides may require a compatible custom slide cut.
- What is the best red dot sight for a Glock?
The right optic depends on factors such as Glock model, mounting footprint, optic size, reticle preference, battery life, durability, and budget. Popular options include the Trijicon RMR Type 2, Aimpoint ACRO P-2, Holosun EPS, Holosun EPS Carry, Holosun 507C X2, Leupold DeltaPoint Pro, and Vortex Defender-ST.
- What footprint does a Glock MOS use?
Glock MOS pistols use adapter plates to accommodate different optic footprints. The required plate depends on the specific red dot sight, so the optic’s footprint and the plate compatibility should always be checked before installation.
Final Thoughts
The ultimate choice of the best red dot sight for a Glock will depend on the gun model, mounting system, use, preferences, and budget of the shooter.
These include items that have been proven to have open emitters like the Trijicon RMR Type 2 or Holosun 507C X2 and enclosed emitters like the Aimpoint ACRO P-2, Holosun EPS and EPS Carry.
For those looking for a compact design and some functionality, there are also the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro and Vortex Defender-ST.
When buying, check the footprint and compatibility of the optic with your particular Glock slide or MOS adapter plate before you buy.
Take into account the factors like reticle configuration, battery power, durability, size, weight and maintenance. A good match with the Glock will offer a visual reference for aiming and fit the weapon’s aesthetics.
When evaluating these factors, it is essential to make a careful comparison and choose a red dot sight that is best suited for your needs
Also check out: 7 Best Red Dot Sight for Both Eyes Open