Support American manufacturing while getting a top-quality red dot sight. This guide focuses on the best red dots made right here in the USA. We'll delve into their features, reputation, and the advantages of buying American-made.
Top 5 Best Red Dot Sights Made In USA of 2024
Trijicon RMR Type 2
Let me tell you, when it comes to micro red dot sights built in the USA, the Trijicon RMR Type 2 is king. It's small, it's mighty, and it's built to last, all right here in the good ol' U.S. of A. Here's why this little powerhouse might be the perfect upgrade for your pistol or rifle.
Specs and Stars & Stripes:
Crafted in the USA: Proudly manufactured in the United States, the RMR Type 2 delivers quality and reliability you can trust.
Multiple Reticle Options: Choose between a 3.25 MOA or 6.5 MOA red dot reticle depending on your shooting style. I went with the 3.25 MOA for a good balance of speed and precision.
Adjustable LED Brightness: Fine-tune the dot's brightness for any lighting condition, ensuring a clear sight picture in any situation.
Ruggedized Housing: Mil-Spec construction ensures the RMR Type 2 can handle the bumps, scrapes, and recoil you throw at it.
Made in the USA, Built for Performance:
Concealment Comfort: The micro size of the RMR Type 2 makes it ideal for concealed carry. It doesn't snag on clothing and the lightweight build keeps the overall profile of your firearm comfortable.
Improved Accuracy: The red dot eliminates sight misalignment, leading to tighter shot groups and more confident shooting, especially when firing quickly.
Always On (Almost): Some RMR Type 2 models come with tritium illumination, keeping the red dot visible in daylight conditions without needing batteries. Huge advantage for quick draws and emergency situations.
A Few Considerations:
Price: Trijicon optics come with a premium price tag, and the RMR Type 2 is no exception.
Battery Dependence for LED Models: While some models boast tritium illumination, the standard LED models rely on batteries.
Limited Reticle Options: While 3.25 MOA and 6.5 MOA are good options, some users might prefer a circle-dot reticle for additional versatility.
What Folks Are Saying:
Online forums are filled with praise for the RMR Type 2's durability, its clear sight picture, and its compact size. Shooters love the fact that it's American-made and built to last.
Here's a typical comment I found: "The Trijicon RMR Type 2 is the gold standard for micro red dot sights. Made in the USA, tough as nails, and the perfect size for my EDC pistol."
The Bottom Line:
The Trijicon RMR Type 2 is a top-of-the-line micro red dot sight built with American pride. It's incredibly durable, offers a clear sight picture, and the option of tritium illumination makes it "always on" for quick target acquisition.
While the price tag might be steeper and the reticle options are limited, the overall performance and the fact it's built in the USA make it a compelling choice for those seeking the best.
If you prioritize a wider range of reticle options or a lower price point, there might be other micro red dots to consider, but for rugged American-made quality, the Trijicon RMR Type 2 is hard to beat.
While the Aimpoint PRO red dot sight isn't the most lightweight option out there, it's a true American-made workhorse that's become a staple on my AR-15. This sight prioritizes ruggedness and reliability, making it perfect for those who demand the best from their gear.
Built in the USA:
The Aimpoint PRO is proudly manufactured right here in the United States. It's a testament to American quality and craftsmanship, and it instills confidence knowing it's built to endure.
Specs and Features:
2 MOA red dot reticle – a good balance between speed and precision for close to medium range
10 brightness settings – allows for use in various lighting conditions
IPX7 waterproof rating – can handle rain, snow, and even submersion
Runs on a single CR123 battery – offers extended battery life
Standard mount – integrates seamlessly with most AR-15 picatinny rails
Why It Earns Its Spot:
Bombproof Construction: The PRO feels incredibly solid in hand. It can handle recoil and bumps without a flinch, making it ideal for hard use.
Always on Duty: The Aimpoint reputation for reliability is well-deserved. The PRO has never let me down, and its always-ready nature gives me peace of mind.
Long Battery Life: The CR123 battery offers a significant lifespan, so I don't have to worry about constantly replacing it.
A Few Considerations:
Weight: Compared to some micro red dots, the PRO is a bit on the heavier side. This might be a factor for weight-conscious shooters.
Night Vision Compatibility: The PRO itself isn't night vision compatible, though night vision adapters are available.
My Range Time:
The Aimpoint PRO has become a reliable extension of my AR-15. It performs flawlessly, and the 2 MOA dot offers a good balance for quick aiming and decent precision. While the weight might be noticeable to some, the ruggedness and reliability are worth it for me.
Online Chatter:
Online forums show the Aimpoint PRO as a popular choice. Users praise its durability, long battery life, and always-on functionality. Some, like me, mention the weight compared to newer micro red dots, but the overall performance and reputation for reliability win out for many shooters.
If you're looking for a tough-as-nails, American-made red dot sight for your AR-15 and prioritize durability and long battery life, the Aimpoint PRO is a fantastic choice. It might not be the lightest option, but for those who value rock-solid performance, it's a proven winner.
There's something undeniably appealing about owning a red dot sight built right here in the USA, and the EOTech EXPS3 fits the bill perfectly. But it's not just patriotism that sold me on this sight - the EXPS3 is a feature-rich optic that's become a workhorse on my AR-platform rifle. Here's why:
Specs:
Holographic sight - Projects a holographic reticle for a clear and dependable sight picture. (Note: Not a true red dot, but a holographic image.)
Made in the USA - Supporting American manufacturing is a plus for me.
68 MOA ring & 1 MOA dot reticle - Offers fast target acquisition with a precise aiming point.
Night vision compatible - Works seamlessly with night vision devices.
Side button operation - Easy to adjust brightness and reticle settings without compromising grip.
Best Features:
The combination of the holographic reticle and the 68 MOA ring with a 1 MOA dot is the real winner here. The large outer ring allows for lightning-fast target acquisition in close quarters, while the central dot offers pinpoint accuracy for longer shots. Plus, the side button operation keeps everything within easy reach without breaking my grip.
Advantages:
American-made quality - The EXPS3 is built tough and designed to perform in any situation.
Versatile reticle - Perfect for close-quarters combat and precise aiming at distance.
Night vision ready - No need for a separate sight for low-light shooting.
Disadvantages:
Bulkier than some micro red dots - The holographic technology adds a bit more weight and size to the sight.
Battery life could be better - While decent, some red dot sights boast even longer battery life.
My Experience:
The EXPS3 mounted easily to my AR, and zeroing it in was a quick process. The holographic reticle is clear and crisp, and switching between the large ring and the center dot is intuitive. The night vision compatibility is a great bonus, allowing me to switch between day and low-light use seamlessly.
What Others Are Saying:
Online reviews are generally positive for the EXPS3. People love the versatility of the reticle, the American-made quality, and the night vision compatibility. A few reviewers mentioned the size and weight being a bit much for some setups, and the battery life could be longer. However, most agreed that the performance and durability of the EXPS3 outweigh those minor drawbacks.
Overall, the EOTech EXPS3 is a fantastic red dot sight, especially for those who prioritize American-made quality and a versatile reticle system. While it might be a bit bulkier than some micro red dots, the EXPS3 offers exceptional performance and features that make it a valuable addition to any AR platform.
There's something undeniably satisfying about owning a piece of American-made equipment, especially when it comes to firearms. That's why I was drawn to the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro red dot sight. Not only is it built right here in the USA, but it's a powerhouse optic that has transformed the way I use my rifle.
Specs and Features:
Proudly designed, machined, and assembled in Beaverton, Oregon, USA.
Rugged aircraft-grade aluminum housing - built to handle recoil and harsh environments.
2.5 MOA red dot - ideal balance between speed and precision for close to medium range.
Exceptional low-light performance - provides a clear aiming point even in fading light.
8 brightness settings - adapts to any lighting situation.
Easy-access battery compartment - no need to re-zero after a change.
Why I Love It:
Knowing the DeltaPoint Pro is American-made gives me a sense of pride and confidence. But its performance is what truly impresses. The sight is built like a tank, shrugging off bumps and bruises without issue. The 2.5 MOA red dot is a perfect size for both quick acquisition and precise aiming. Leupold's reputation for low-light performance holds true here, with a clear dot even in fading light conditions. The 8 brightness settings offer further adaptability, and the easy-access battery compartment is a user-friendly touch.
A Few Considerations:
The DeltaPoint Pro falls on the higher end of the red dot sight price range. Additionally, the sight picture might be a little cluttered for some users with the larger 2.5 MOA dot compared to some micro red dots.
Real-World Results:
Since mounting the DeltaPoint Pro on my rifle, my accuracy and speed at the range have noticeably improved. The red dot allows for much faster target acquisition, especially in lower light. The sight has also held zero flawlessly, and the overall build quality inspires confidence.
Online Buzz:
The DeltaPoint Pro is a popular choice for serious shooters who prioritize American-made quality. Online forums are filled with praise for its durability, low-light performance, and clear dot picture. A few comments mention the slightly larger dot size and the price point, but the overall consensus is that it's a top-tier red dot sight built to last.
The Final Salute:
The Leupold DeltaPoint Pro is more than just a red dot sight; it's a testament to American craftsmanship. It's a reliable, high-performance optic that enhances your rifle's capabilities.
If you're looking for a red dot sight built to last, with the added bonus of American manufacturing, the DeltaPoint Pro is an excellent choice. It might cost a bit more upfront, but the quality and performance justify the investment.
Let's talk pistol red dot sights, and let me tell you, the Holosun HE508T is a game-changer. Not only is it packed with features, but it boasts a badge of honor - Made in the USA. That means top-notch quality and American craftsmanship on my everyday carry pistol.
Specs and Features:
American-Made: Proudly built in the USA, ensuring quality and supporting domestic manufacturing.
Titanium Housing: Lightweight and incredibly durable, perfect for everyday carry and hard use.
Multi-Reticle System (depending on model): Choose between a 65 MOA circle with a 2 MOA dot or just a 2 MOA dot for versatility in close-quarters shooting and precise aiming.
Super LED Technology: Holosun boasts a long battery life with this innovative LED design.
Solar Failsafe (depending on model): Even if the battery dies, some models can utilize ambient light to power the reticle on the lowest setting.
Why American Made Matters (and Why the HE508T Delivers):
Supporting Domestic Manufacturing: Let's face it, buying American-made feels good. You're supporting US jobs and quality control.
Built to Last: The titanium housing and American craftsmanship ensure this red dot sight can handle the bumps and scrapes of everyday carry without a hitch.
Versatility at Your Fingertips: The multi-reticle system (on some models) allows for quick target acquisition with the circle and precise aiming with the dot. It adapts to any shooting situation.
A Couple of Considerations:
Price Point: The HE508T sits in a mid-range price point for pistol red dot sights.
Size: While not the biggest red dot on the market, it might be a consideration for some subcompact pistols where size is a major concern.
My EDC Experience with the HE508T:
The Holosun HE508T has transformed my everyday carry pistol. The American-made quality gives me peace of mind, and the sight itself is fantastic. The multi-reticle system (on my model) is a huge plus. I can acquire targets incredibly quickly with the circle and make precise shots with the 2 MOA dot. The sight sits comfortably on my pistol without adding excessive bulk.
What Others Are Saying:
Online forums are filled with positive reviews for the HE508T. Shooters love the American-made aspect, the durability of the titanium housing, and the versatility of the multi-reticle system (on applicable models).
A few comments mentioned the price being a bit higher than some competitor models and the size potentially not ideal for the most subcompact pistols. But overall, there's a lot of praise for the quality and performance of this American-made red dot sight.
The Verdict:
If you're looking for a feature-rich, American-made pistol red dot sight, the Holosun HE508T is a fantastic option. It's a well-built, versatile red dot that delivers exceptional quality and supports domestic manufacturing.
While it might not be the most budget-friendly option or the smallest sight on the market, the combination of American craftsmanship and performance makes it a strong contender for your EDC pistol.
To conclude, opting for red dots made in the USA not only supports domestic manufacturing but also ensures a high standard of quality and craftsmanship. From rugged durability to cutting-edge technology, American-made red dot sights exemplify excellence and reliability, offering shooters confidence in their equipment's performance under any conditions.