red dot sights

Are Red Dot Sights Better Than Iron Sights?

Are you finding it difficult to decide between red dot sights and iron sights? You’re not the only one. Iron sights have long been the traditional choice, but there’s growing interest in the advantages of red dot optics. Most people have made the switch on their AR-15 to some of the best red dot optics on the market and have even added some of the best pistol red dots to their EDC Glock, Sig Sauer, M&P, Staccato, and others. 

This article will dive deep into both options, comparing their attributes like accuracy, visibility in low-light conditions, durability, and ease of use. Stick around if you’re looking to make an informed decision about which sight is best for your shooting needs!

Key Takeaways

  • Red dot sights offer enhanced accuracy and speed compared to iron sights.
  • Red dot optics provide improved visibility in low-light conditions.
  • Iron sights are known for their durability and ease of use.

Table of contents

Understanding Red Dot Sights

A red dot sight is a type of optic that provides the shooter with a clear, illuminated aiming point on their target.

What is a red dot sight?

A red dot sight is a type of non-magnifying reflector used for firearms to help the shooter hit their target. It uses a simple concept — it projects an illuminated red dot as an aiming point onto a clear surface.

The main advantage of this optic is that you can keep your eyes on the target while the red dot follows your eye movement. This makes shooting more intuitive and quick, especially in dynamic scenarios where speed matters.

However, unlike traditional iron sights, they may require batteries for illumination, which adds to maintenance needs but also improves visibility in low-light conditions.

Purpose of a red dot optic

A red dot sight improves your shooting accuracy and speed, particularly in dynamic or “tactical” scenarios. This device allows you to focus directly on the target with a projected red dot that hovers over it.

Red dots present a great advantage in simplifying the aiming process, especially when time is of the essence.

Also worth noting is the advantage of improved visibility, even in low-light conditions provided by this favored optic tool. Unlike iron sights, which might prove challenging under poor lighting, a well-illuminated red dot maintains its clarity regardless of external illumination levels, ensuring you get an accurate shot at any given moment.

Related Article: You Need a Specific Home Defense Weapon for Use at Night

However, keep in mind that most models require batteries for illumination — something to consider for shooters planning extended use outdoors or off-grid.

Benefits of using a red dot sight

Choosing a red dot sight can greatly enhance your shooting experience and performance. Here are some compelling reasons why you might opt for this type of optic:

  1. Aim accuracy improves with a red dot sight as the line of sight aligns with the target, simplifying the focus.
  2. Red dots provide faster target acquisition, which is critical in dynamic shooting scenarios.
  3. These sights assist shooters in maintaining visibility in low-light conditions, thanks to their self-illuminating feature.
  4. The operation of red dot optics is generally more user-friendly for beginners compared to traditional iron sights.
  5. Shooting at longer distances becomes efficient due to the precision offered by these optics.
  6. Red dot sights permit enhanced reaction speed, a key element, especially when moving targets come into play.

Comparison Between Red Dot Optics and Iron Sights

Red dot sights offer higher accuracy and speed compared to iron sights, making them a preferred choice for self-defense and EDC enthusiasts.

Accuracy and speed

Red dot optics offer enhanced accuracy and speed compared to iron sights. Many shooters find that they can shoot more accurately with a red dot sight, especially at longer distances and in situations where speed is crucial.

Related Article: Beyond the Dot — Do You Need a Red Dot Magnifier?

With a red dot optic, the shooter can easily focus on the target while the red dot simply rests on it (or green dot). This allows for faster target acquisition and improved precision. Common reticle sizes range from a single MOA dot to a 6 MOA dot. On the other hand, iron sights require aligning the front and rear sights with the target, which takes more time and effort.

Ultimately, choosing between red dot sights or iron sights depends on personal preference and shooting style.

Visibility in low light

Red dot optics offer an advantage in terms of visibility in low-light situations. With the illuminated red dot, acquiring targets and maintaining accuracy becomes much easier, even when lighting conditions are less than ideal.

Related Article: Lights Out, Sights On — The Benefits of Tritium Night Sights

This is especially beneficial for self-defense and EDC purposes, where quick target acquisition and precise shots can make all the difference. Unlike iron sights, which rely solely on ambient light, red dot optics provide their own illumination through battery-powered LEDs or fiber optics.

As a result, shooters can confidently aim at their targets regardless of how dimly lit the environment may be.

Durability and ease of use

Iron sights are known for their durability and reliability, making them a popular choice among self-defense and EDC enthusiasts. These sights are not affected by factors like rain, fog, battery power, or rough terrains, ensuring that they remain functional in all conditions.

Additionally, iron sights are easy to use and require minimal maintenance. With their straightforward design and simplicity, shooters can quickly acquire targets with ease. This makes iron sights a dependable choice for those looking for a durable and user-friendly aiming system.

Some of the top brands in the red dot sight market include Aimpoint, Trijicon, Burris, and Vortex Optics. If you’re looking for a reliable and high-quality red dot optic, these brands are definitely worth considering.

Read on to discover our recommended red dot optics for self-defense and EDC enthusiasts!

The best red dot brands in the market

Several top brands in the market offer high-quality red dot sights for self-defense and EDC enthusiasts. These include:

  1. Aimpoint: Known for their ruggedness and durability, Aimpoint offers a range of reliable red dot sights suitable for various shooting applications.
  2. Trijicon: Renowned for their illuminated reticles, Trijicon produces robust red dot sights that excel in low-light conditions.
  3. EOTech: Favored by many professionals, EOTech provides holographic sights that offer quick target acquisition and exceptional accuracy.
  4. Vortex Optics: Offering a wide selection of affordable options, Vortex Optics is known for their reliable and user-friendly red dot sights.
  5. Holosun: Highly regarded for their innovative technology, Holosun produces feature-rich red dot sights with long battery life and exceptional performance.

Here are some recommended red dot optics for self-defense and everyday carry (EDC) enthusiasts and those with an AR-15 or AR pistol:

  1. Trijicon RMR: Known for its ruggedness and durability, the Trijicon RMR is highly regarded in the industry. It offers a clear sight picture and fast target acquisition.
  2. Aimpoint PRO (Patrol Rifle Optic): Designed with law enforcement professionals in mind, the Aimpoint PRO offers a long battery life of up to 30,000 hours. It provides a reliable and crisp red dot reticle.
  3. Aimpoint Micro T-2: While on the pricey side, the T-2 has long been the gold standard for micro red dot optics on rifles. Built for durability and tried and true in the most harsh environments, many people will spend the extra money on this optic.
  4. Vortex Venom: With its compact size and lightweight design, the Vortex Venom is ideal for EDC purposes. It features a wide field of view and easy-to-use controls.
  5. Holosun HS503GU: This affordable option from Holosun offers both a red dot sight and a visible laser sight. It has multiple brightness settings and features an efficient solar panel backup system.
  6. SIG Sauer Romeo5: The SIG Sauer Romeo5 is known for its ultra-low parallax design, ensuring accurate shots even at longer distances. It features motion-activated illumination for extended battery life.

What Red Dot Sights Do I Use?

On my pistols I rely on my Trijicon RMR, Holosun 507C, or my Holosun 407K. To be frank, I feel like my Holosuns are even better than the Trijicon and at a much lower price. If I didn’t have the Trijicon, I would have tossed another Holosun on the pistol that wears my Trijicon RMR.

When it comes to rifles, I have an Eotech 512, a Holosun HS503CU, a Burris 332 with a Burris Fast Fire III mounted on top, another Burris Fast Fire III but this one sits on a Burris ARF3 mount, and I also have a Primary Arms T1 clone (doesn’t appear to be available anymore).

I should be noted that I think all the mounts on the rifle red dot sights above are good, except for the one that comes on the Holosun HS503CU. Will it hold up under light use? Sure. But if you plan on using it for training, force on force, or need it to hold in rough use (or being dropped), you’re going to want another mount. The standard mount doesn’t provide enough grip on the rail and can break off from what I’ve seen and heard. To remedy this situation, I purchased and would recommend the Midwest Industries Aimpoint T1 footprint QD Mount. It’s a lower 1/3 mount and it makes the Holosun HS503CU rock solid on the rail.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the choice between picking up your first red dot sights and iron sights is subjective and depends on individual preferences. While red dot optics offer advantages such as accuracy at longer distances and faster target acquisition, some shooters still prefer the durability and familiarity of iron sights. If you want to jump on the red dot train, consider the size of the dot and one that will provide you with great battery life (including the shake awake feature). 

Related Article: Seeing Clearly — A Guide to Low Power Variable Optics (LPVO)

It ultimately comes down to personal shooting style and specific needs for self-defense or everyday carry situations. For me, personally, I have red dot optics on all of my firearms, regardless of whether its an AR, pistol, etc. I love them, trust them, and have seem a drastic improvement in not only my accuracy, but also my speed. Would I recommend you try a red dot? Absolutely.

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FAQs

1. How do red dot sights compare to iron sights?

Red dot sights offer several advantages over iron sights, including faster target acquisition, improved accuracy, and easier aiming in low-light conditions.

2. Are red dot optics more reliable than iron sights?

Yes, red dot optics are generally more reliable than iron sights as they are less prone to human error and provide a clear aiming point regardless of eye position or shooting angle.

3. Do red dot sights work well for long-range shooting?

While red dot sights are primarily designed for close to mid-range shooting, some models can be effective for longer distances with proper adjustments and magnification options.

4. Can I use a red dot optic on any firearm?

Red dot optics can be used on a wide range of firearms, including handguns, rifles, shotguns, and even crossbows. However, it’s important to choose the right model that is compatible with your specific firearm.

5. How much does a red-dot sight cost compared to iron sights?

The cost of a red dot sight varies depending on the brand, features, and quality but generally tends to be more expensive than traditional iron sights.

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Matt Weik

Matt Weik, BS, CPT, CSCS, CSN, is the Owner and Head Keyboard Banger of Weik Fitness. He is a well-respected, prolific writer with a global following and a self-proclaimed fitness and supplement nerd. Matt’s content has been featured on thousands of websites, 100+ magazines, and he has authored over a dozen published books.