Upgrading your Smith & Wesson M&P .40 caliber pistol with a red dot sight can significantly enhance your target acquisition speed and precision.
But with a wide range of red dot options available, selecting the perfect one for your M&P 40 depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Factors to consider include the red dot's reticle type, durability, battery life, and whether it requires modifying your pistol's slide.
This guide will explore the key considerations for choosing the best red dot sight to optimize your M&P 40's performance.
Top 5 Best Red Dot Sight For M&P 40
Trijicon RMR
My M&P 40 is a fantastic pistol, but adding a Trijicon RMR red dot sight took it to a whole new level. This sight is like a built-in performance upgrade, making my M&P 40 faster, more accurate, and ready for any situation.
Precision on a Pistol:
Here's a quick rundown of the Trijicon RMR's specs that make it perfect for the M&P 40:
Adjustable LED red dot: Fine-tune the dot intensity for various lighting conditions, ideal for both target shooting and self-defense.
Ruggedized machined housing: Built to take the recoil of the M&P 40 and more, ensuring reliability.
Trijicon tritium illumination (select models): No batteries required, the red dot is always on and visible in low light (tritium models only).
Multiple sight picture options: Choose between a 3.25 MOA or 6.5 MOA dot size depending on your desired balance of precision and speed.
Compact footprint: Mounts securely to the M&P 40's slide without adding excessive bulk for concealed carry.
M&P 40 Perfected:
The Trijicon RMR elevates my M&P 40 in several ways:
Lightning Fast Aiming: The red dot allows for significantly faster target acquisition compared to iron sights, crucial for both competition and self-defense scenarios.
Enhanced Accuracy: Focus on the target, not the front sight, for improved shot placement.
Daylight and Low-Light Capability (tritium models): The adjustable red dot works well in various lighting conditions, and Trijicon models offer self-illumination for low-light situations.
Maintains Situational Awareness: The compact design allows for both-eyes-open shooting, keeping you aware of your surroundings while on target.
A Few Considerations:
While undeniably impressive, the Trijicon RMR does have a couple of things to consider for use on an M&P 40:
Cost: Trijicon sights are a premium investment, and the RMR is no exception.
Iron Sight Replacement: Mounting the RMR typically replaces your factory iron sights. Back-up iron sights are available, but they add cost and bulk.
Dot Size Choice: Picking between a 3.25 MOA or 6.5 MOA dot depends on your shooting style and intended use.
My M&P Transformed:
Since adding the Trijicon RMR, my M&P 40 has become an extension of myself. The red dot is incredibly fast to pick up, and the adjustable brightness lets me use it in any lighting. The tritium models offer amazing low-light visibility, and the overall build quality feels indestructible.
The Online Buzz:
Online forums for M&P 40 owners are filled with discussions about the Trijicon RMR. While the price is a common point of discussion, users rave about its durability, speed, and low-light capabilities (with tritium models). Many consider it the gold standard for red dot sights on M&P pistols.
If you're looking to unlock the full potential of your M&P 40 and take your shooting to the next level, the Trijicon RMR is a fantastic choice. The upfront cost is significant, but the boost to performance and versatility makes it a worthwhile investment for serious M&P 40 users.
When it came to choosing a red dot sight for my M&P 40 pistol, I wanted something robust, versatile, and built for performance. After much research, I landed on the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro, and it's been a fantastic choice. Here's why I think it pairs so well with my M&P 40.
Specs and Features:
Rugged construction: Leupold optics are known for their durability, and the DeltaPoint Pro is no exception. It's built to handle the recoil and punishment of pistol use.
2.5 MOA red dot reticle: This size offers a good balance between fast target acquisition and precision shooting, ideal for pistol applications at typical engagement distances.
Motion sensor activation: The sight automatically powers on when movement is detected and times out after inactivity, saving battery life.
IPX8 waterproof rating: This sight can take on rain, dust, and even submersion – built to perform in any environment.
Multiple brightness settings: Fine-tune the dot intensity for any lighting condition, from bright sun to low-light shooting scenarios.
What I love:
Built to last: I can trust this sight to hold zero and function flawlessly, even with the heavier recoil of the M&P 40.
Perfect balance for pistols: The 2.5 MOA dot allows for quick target acquisition while still providing decent precision for accurate shots with my M&P 40.
Motion-activated convenience: The automatic on/off feature is a great perk, no need to fumble with buttons when I need to draw and fire quickly.
All-weather performance: No matter the conditions, the DeltaPoint Pro shrugs them off and delivers a clear sight picture.
Versatile brightness options: I can adjust the dot to a comfortable level for any lighting situation, ensuring optimal performance.
Downsides to consider:
Bulkier than micro red dots: Compared to some micro red dots, the DeltaPoint Pro has a slightly larger footprint. While still manageable on a full-size pistol frame like the M&P 40, it might be a consideration for some users who prioritize a very minimalist profile.
Price tag: The DeltaPoint Pro falls on the higher end of the red dot sight price spectrum. Be prepared to invest for the premium features and performance.
My experience:
Since mounting the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro on my M&P 40, my pistol has become significantly more versatile and capable. The red dot makes acquiring targets incredibly fast, and the automatic activation ensures the sight is always ready when I need it. The build quality is superb, and I'm confident this sight will be a reliable companion for years to come.
Online Chatter:
The Leupold DeltaPoint Pro is a popular choice for pistol red dot sights on online forums. Users praise its durability, automatic activation feature, and clear optics. While some might prefer a micro red dot for the most minimal profile, for those who prioritize a balance of size, performance, and ruggedness, the DeltaPoint Pro seems to be a favorite for use on pistols like the M&P 40.
If you're looking for a top-tier red dot sight for your M&P 40 that offers a great mix of durability, performance, and user-friendly features, the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro is definitely worth considering. It's a fantastic option that will give you a significant edge in terms of speed and accuracy with your pistol.
My M&P 40 is a fantastic pistol, but I wanted to take it to the next level for everyday carry and target shooting. Enter the Holosun HS507C red dot sight. Let me tell you, it's been the missing piece for my M&P 40. Here's why the HS507C is ideal for this pistol, along with the pros, cons, and my personal experience.
M&P 40 Match Made in Heaven:
Conceal Carry Comfort: The HS507C is a micro red dot, making it incredibly comfortable to carry concealed on my M&P 40. It minimizes printing and keeps the overall profile slim.
Quick Target Acquisition: The red dot makes finding your sights on the M&P 40 lightning fast, ideal for both defensive situations and competition shooting.
Streamlined Design: The sleek design of the HS507C complements the lines of the M&P 40, avoiding any snags during draw or holstering.
Specs and Features:
Magnification: 1x (no zoom)
Objective Lens Diameter: 20mm
Reticle Options: Multiple reticle options available (choose your preferred aiming point)
Mount Options: Uses a common footprint compatible with many M&P 40 mounting plates.
Durability: Mil-Spec rated (tough enough for everyday carry and range use).
Why I Love the HS507C on My M&P 40:
Clear and Crisp Reticle: The red dot is sharp and easy to see in various lighting conditions.
Shake Awake Technology: The sight automatically powers on when moved and sleeps when stationary, saving battery life.
Solar Backup: Even with a dead battery, the sight can still use solar power to keep the reticle illuminated (a great failsafe for everyday carry).
Some Considerations:
Limited Field of View: Being a micro red dot, the field of view is a bit narrower compared to larger options.
Reticle Choice Can Be Overwhelming: With multiple reticle options, picking the right one might take some research for beginners.
Mid-Range Price: The HS507C sits in a mid-range price bracket, but the features and performance might justify the cost.
My M&P 40 Experience:
The Holosun HS507C has significantly improved my experience with the M&P 40. The red dot acquisition is super fast, it conceals comfortably, and the battery features give me peace of mind. It's a great upgrade for anyone looking to enhance their M&P 40's potential.
Online Chatter:
The HS507C seems to be a popular choice for M&P 40 owners online. People love its small size for concealed carry, the variety of reticle options, and the shake awake/solar backup features. While some mention the slightly limited field of view compared to non-micro red dots, the overall sentiment is positive.
If you're looking for a micro red dot sight that perfectly complements your M&P 40 for concealed carry or target shooting, the Holosun HS507C is a fantastic choice. It offers a great balance of size, performance, and innovative features, making it a worthwhile investment for your M&P 40.
My M&P 40 is a fantastic pistol, but low-light shooting always felt like a bit of a gamble with iron sights. That's where the SIG Sauer Romeo1Pro red dot sight comes in. This little powerhouse has transformed my M&P 40 into a low-light champ, here's why:
Specs:
Night Vision Compatibility: Dual-illuminated reticle with adjustable levels, including settings for night vision use.
IPX-8 Waterproof Rating: Handles rain, snow, and any downpour you might encounter.
MOTAC (Motion Activated Illumination): Powers up automatically when the sight detects movement, keeping your focus on the target in low light.
Battery Life: Impressive battery life on a single CR123A battery, lasting for hours on even the brightest settings.
Best Features:
The night vision compatibility is the star of the show. No more swapping sights for night shooting – the Romeo1Pro seamlessly adapts.
MOTAC is a game-changer in low light. The reticle activates as you raise your M&P 40, keeping your eyes on the target.
Multiple brightness settings allow you to fine-tune the red dot for any lighting condition.
SIG Sauer's reputation for quality and durability gives me confidence in any situation.
Advantages:
Vastly improved sight picture in low-light scenarios compared to iron sights.
Faster target acquisition thanks to the bright and adjustable red dot.
MOTAC keeps you focused on the target, not fumbling with buttons in low light.
Night vision compatibility makes it a versatile option for various lighting situations.
Disadvantages:
A bit on the heavier side compared to micro red dots. Not a huge deal for the M&P 40, but something to consider for super lightweight carry guns.
The price might be a turnoff for some shooters, but the low-light capabilities are worth it for me.
My Experience:
The SIG Sauer Romeo1Pro has been a game-changer for my M&P 40's low-light performance. The bright, adjustable red dot makes targets easy to see, even when visibility is poor. The MOTAC feature is fantastic, activating instantly as I raise the pistol. While it adds a little weight, the overall performance and features make it a great upgrade for the M&P 40.
What Others Are Saying:
Online forums are buzzing about the Romeo1Pro's low-light capabilities on M&P pistols. M&P owners love the night vision compatibility, the crisp dot, and the way it enhances low-light shooting. Some users mention the weight and price, but many agree it's a worthwhile investment for the added low-light performance and versatility. Overall, the SIG Sauer Romeo1Pro seems to be a favorite for M&P 40 owners who want to improve their pistol's low-light capabilities and night vision compatibility.
If you're looking for a red dot sight to elevate your M&P 40's low-light performance, the SIG Sauer Romeo1Pro is an excellent choice. It offers exceptional low-light capability, night vision compatibility, and the usual SIG Sauer quality and durability.
Looking for a red dot sight to elevate your M&P 40 without breaking the bank? The Vortex Venom might be your perfect match, just like it's been for me. Here's why I think it's a great option:
Specs and Features:
Reticle: 6 MOA red dot (ideal for quick target acquisition at pistol ranges)
Durability: ArmorTek body construction, waterproof and fogproof
Battery Life: Up to 100,000 hours on a single CR2032 battery (phenomenal!)
Multiple Mounts: Includes a Picatinny mount, compatible with most M&P models
Weight: Lightweight at just 6.1 ounces
Best Features:
Unbeatable Battery Life: Vortex boasts a ridiculous 100,000 hours on a single battery. You practically forget about ever needing a change.
Quick on the Draw: The 6 MOA red dot is ideal for pistol use. It helps you acquire targets fast, especially in close-quarters situations.
Built to Last: The ArmorTek body feels solid and can take the bumps of everyday carry or range use.
Right Size for Pistols: Neither bulky nor too small, the Venom sits perfectly on most M&P models.
What Could Be Improved:
Reticle Brightness: While the dot is visible in most conditions, some users would prefer a few more brightness settings for low light.
No Auto-Shutoff: The Venom lacks an auto-shutoff feature, so be mindful of turning it off to conserve battery.
My Experience:
The Vortex Venom has made a big difference with my M&P 40. The 6 MOA dot makes picking up targets lightning fast, which is exactly what you want on a pistol. Plus, the battery life is simply amazing. The sight itself feels well-made and the size is perfect for the M&P platform. While a couple more brightness options and an auto-shutoff would be nice, these are minor drawbacks for the overall value you get.
What Others Are Saying:
Online reviews are generally positive. People love the long battery life, the 6 MOA dot for pistol use, and the affordability. Some users, like me, wish for a few more brightness settings and an auto-shutoff feature. But overall, the Vortex Venom is a highly-rated red dot sight for pistols like the M&P 40.
If you're looking for a reliable and budget-friendly red dot sight to enhance your M&P 40 performance, the Vortex Venom is definitely worth a strong look.
In conclusion, choosing the best red dot for your M&P 40 in .40 S&W caliber depends on your intended use, budget, and personal preferences.
Researching factors like durability, reticle options, and ease of use will help you narrow down the vast selection. Remember, a red dot sight is an investment that can significantly enhance your pistol's versatility and performance.