The Glock 43x is a compact, reliable, and highly popular handgun, favored for concealed carry and personal defense. Its lightweight and slim profile make it an excellent choice for many, but like all firearms, it can benefit from enhancements.
One of the most significant upgrades you can make is adding a red dot sight. This guide will delve into the top best red dot sights for the Glock 43x, reviewing each product in detail, and providing specifications, features, pros and cons, and user experiences.
Note: This article reflects my personal opinions. While the products mentioned may not be perfect for everyone, they might be useful for some readers.
1. Trijicon RMR Type 2
Specifications
Reticle: 3.25 MOA Red Dot
Magnification: 1x
Battery Life: Up to 4 years on a single CR2032 battery
Weight: 1.2 oz
Material: 7075-T6 aluminum
Best Features
Durability: Constructed from rugged 7075-T6 aluminum, the RMR Type 2 can withstand harsh conditions and heavy recoil.
Battery Life: With up to 4 years of continuous use, the battery life is exceptional.
Adjustable Brightness: It offers eight brightness settings, including an automatic mode that adjusts based on ambient lighting.
Pros
Highly durable and reliable
Long battery life
Multiple brightness settings
Cons
Expensive
Complex installation process
Experience
Using the Trijicon RMR Type 2 on my Glock 43x has been transformative. The sight's clarity and the bright 3.25 MOA dot make target acquisition quick and easy. Its robust construction ensures it can handle any abuse, whether from rough handling or extreme weather.
Customer Comments
Many users rave about its durability and reliability, despite its high price. Some mention the sight's excellent performance even after thousands of rounds.
Reticle: Multi-Reticle System (2 MOA dot and 32 MOA circle)
Magnification: 1x
Battery Life: Up to 50,000 hours on a CR1632 battery
Weight: 1 oz
Material: 7075-T6 aluminum
Best Features
Multi-Reticle System: Allows users to switch between a 2 MOA dot, a 32 MOA circle, or a combination of both.
Solar Fail-Safe: Utilizes solar power to extend battery life.
Shake Awake Technology: The sight turns on with movement and conserves battery when idle.
Pros
Innovative reticle options
Extended battery life
Solar-powered backup
Cons
Complex reticle options may confuse beginners
May require adapter for Glock 43x
Experience
The Holosun HS507K-X2's versatility is impressive. The ability to switch between different reticle patterns is a significant advantage, catering to different shooting preferences and conditions. The solar backup and Shake Awake technology also add layers of reliability.
Customer Comments
Users appreciate the sight's innovative features, particularly the Shake Awake technology and multi-reticle system. However, some mention the learning curve associated with using the various reticle options.
Lightweight Design: At just 0.57 oz, it is one of the lightest red dots available, making it ideal for concealed carry.
Low Profile: Designed specifically for slim-frame pistols like the Glock 43x, ensuring minimal bulk.
Auto-Adjust Brightness: The dot brightness adjusts automatically based on ambient light.
Pros
Ultra-lightweight
Low profile and slim design
Automatic brightness adjustment
Cons
Shorter battery life compared to competitors
Less durable than fully aluminum sights
Experience
The RMS-C stands out for its lightweight and sleek design, which doesn't compromise the Glock 43x's slim profile. The automatic brightness adjustment works well in various lighting conditions, though the shorter battery life is a minor drawback.
Customer Comments
Users love the RMS-C for its minimal weight and how it complements the Glock 43x's design. Some express concerns about its durability compared to heavier, more robust sights.
Battery Life: Up to 20,000 hours on a CR1632 battery
Weight: 0.4 oz
Material: Polymer
Best Features
Affordable: One of the most budget-friendly options without sacrificing essential features.
Lightweight: Extremely light at just 0.4 oz, enhancing the Glock 43x's portability.
Motion Activated Illumination (MOTAC): Powers up when it senses motion, conserving battery life.
Pros
Highly affordable
Lightweight and compact
Motion-activated illumination
Cons
Polymer construction may be less durable
Limited brightness settings
Experience
The Romeo Zero is an excellent option for budget-conscious users. Its lightweight design and motion-activated illumination are standout features. However, its polymer construction, while durable, might not offer the same longevity as metal alternatives.
Customer Comments
Many users highlight the Romeo Zero's value for money and lightweight design. Some, however, express concerns about the durability of the polymer housing over time.
Battery Life: Up to 1,600 hours on a CR2032 battery
Weight: 1.95 oz
Material: Aluminum
Best Features
Crystal Clear Optics: Provides a crisp and clear sight picture with minimal parallax.
Motion Sensor Technology (MST): Activates the sight with motion, conserving battery life.
Tool-less Battery Compartment: Allows easy battery changes without removing the sight.
Pros
Exceptional optical clarity
Easy battery replacement
Durable construction
Cons
Heavier compared to competitors
Shorter battery life
Experience
The DeltaPoint Pro offers unparalleled optical clarity, making target acquisition incredibly smooth. The tool-less battery compartment is a practical feature, although the sight's weight is noticeable on the Glock 43x.
Customer Comments
Users frequently praise the DeltaPoint Pro's clear optics and user-friendly battery compartment. The heavier weight is a common point of discussion, with some finding it a minor inconvenience.
How to Choose the Best Red Dot Sight for Your Glock 43x?
Selecting the right red dot sight for your Glock 43x involves considering several factors to ensure it meets your specific needs. Here are the key aspects to consider:
1. Durability
Choose a sight made from robust materials like aluminum to withstand harsh conditions and recoil. Durability is crucial for maintaining zero and ensuring longevity.
2. Battery Life
Consider the battery life and how frequently you are willing to change batteries. Sights with longer battery life and features like auto-off and motion activation can be more convenient.
3. Size and Weight
Since the Glock 43x is a compact firearm, a lightweight and low-profile sight is ideal to maintain its slim and portable nature.
4. Reticle Options
Different reticle options can cater to various shooting preferences. Some sights offer multiple reticle patterns, which can be beneficial for different shooting scenarios.
5. Ease of Use
Features like tool-less battery compartments and auto-adjust brightness can make a sight more user-friendly.
6. Price
Balance your budget with the features you need. While higher-end models offer more durability and advanced features, there are budget-friendly options that provide excellent performance.
FAQs
1. Do I need to modify my Glock 43x to install a red dot sight?
Most red dot sights require a mounting plate or adapter for installation on the Glock 43x. Some sights come with these accessories, while others may need to be purchased separately.
2. Can I still use my iron sights with a red dot sight?
Yes, many red dot sights are designed to co-witness with iron sights, allowing you to use both simultaneously for improved accuracy and reliability.
3. How do I maintain my red dot sight?
Regularly clean the lenses with a microfiber cloth and ensure the mounting screws are tight. Check the battery periodically and replace it as needed to prevent loss of power during use.
4. Will a red dot sight improve my shooting accuracy?
A red dot sight can significantly enhance accuracy by providing a clear aiming point, reducing the time needed to acquire a target, and improving shooting speed.
5. Are red dot sights suitable for concealed carry?
Yes, red dot sights can be suitable for concealed carry, especially if they are lightweight and compact, maintaining the slim profile of the Glock 43x.
Conclusion
Adding a red dot sight to your Glock 43x can transform your shooting experience, enhancing accuracy and target acquisition speed.
Whether you opt for the rugged durability of the Trijicon RMR Type 2, the innovative features of the Holosun HS507K-X2, the lightweight design of the Shield Sights RMS-C, the affordability of the SIG Sauer Romeo Zero, or the optical clarity of the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro, each sight offers unique advantages.
Consider your specific needs, preferences, and budget when making your choice, and enjoy the enhanced performance and confidence a red dot sight can provide.