Looking to enhance your target acquisition on your Ruger GP100 revolver? A red dot sight can significantly improve your accuracy and speed. Let's explore the top contenders for this popular wheelgun.
Most red dot sights won't directly mount to the GP100's frame. You'll likely need a mounting plate specifically designed for the Ruger GP100 and your chosen red dot sight.
Note: This article reflects my personal opinions. While the products mentioned may not be perfect for everyone, they might be useful for some readers.
4 Best Red Dot Sights for Ruger GP100 in 2024
Top Durability & Performance (Higher Budget): Trijicon RMR
I love my Ruger GP100. It's a tank of a revolver, but there's room for improvement, especially with those classic iron sights. Enter the Trijicon RMR Type 2. Is this pinnacle of red dot tech a match for the rugged GP100?
Specifications
Magnification: 1x
Dot Size: Choice of 3.25 or 6.5 MOA
Weight: 1.2 ounces (with battery)
Battery Life: Up to 4 years (3.25 MOA model)
Construction: Ridiculously durable – built for way more than .357 Magnum
Adjustments: Toolless with positive clicks
Best Features
Trijicon Reputation: Their optics are used in the harshest conditions, ideal for a hard-use revolver.
Tiny and Mighty: Minimal impact on handling, which is key on a balanced wheelgun.
Always-On Options: Some models allow constant readiness.
Brightness Options: Manually adjustable or auto-adjusting for varied light situations.
Advantages
Speed Upgrade: That dot is way faster to pick up than standard sights.
Accuracy Potential: Especially at a distance, the RMR will outshine iron sights.
Confidence-Inspiring: Knowing you have one of the best optics available is reassuring.
Disadvantages
The Price: Trijicon = expensive, and this is no exception.
Finding a Mount: You need a GP100-specific mount system.
Changes the Classic Look: Some folks might not like the techy look on a revolver.
My Experience
The RMR Type 2 on my GP100 is a game-changer. Yes, it's pricey, but I'm way more accurate, especially as distances increase. It feels rock solid, and I have zero concerns about it handling the recoil. Some might call it overkill on a revolver, but I love the added capability.
Online Comments and Discussions
Here's the general vibe I'm seeing:
"If you can afford it, the RMR is an amazing upgrade for a revolver."
"Look for mounting solutions that let you retain the rear sight (just in case)."
"It feels surprisingly natural once you get used to it."
My Takeaway
If you value absolute reliability, superior performance, and don't mind the investment, the Trijicon RMR Type 2 is a superb pairing with the Ruger GP100. It may even change your mind about the capabilities of a red-dot-equipped revolver.
I was looking to add a red dot to my trusty Ruger GP100 but didn't want to shell out the cash for an Aimpoint or Trijicon. The Holosun 407C seemed like a solid mid-range option, and here's what I found:
Specifications
Magnification: 1x
Reticle: 2 MOA dot, 32 MOA circle, or both
Objective Lens Diameter: 20mm
Battery Life: Up to 50,000 hours
Weight: 2.25 oz
Durability: Waterproof, shockproof, and built to handle handgun recoil
Best Features
Multiple Reticle Choices: I love having the flexibility to use just the dot for precision or the dot-and-circle for quick acquisition.
Solar Failsafe: Knowing it has solar power as a backup to the battery is reassuring.
Shake Awake: It's ready to go when I pick up the gun, but saves battery life when not in use.
Advantages
Great Value: Offers tons of features at a much lower price than the big-name red dots.
Easy On The Eyes: The Holosun dot is crisp and clear, with less "bloom" than some competitors I've tried.
Lightweight: Doesn't bog down the GP100, important for keeping the balance right.
Disadvantages
Less Brand Recognition: Holosun doesn't have the combat-proven reputation of Aimpoint or Trijicon.
Durability May Be A Notch Below: While tough for the price, it might not withstand constant abuse like the higher-end sights.
My Experience
The Holosun 407C has made range time with my GP100 even more enjoyable. The learning curve was minimal compared to iron sights, and I love being able to switch reticles on the fly. While I haven't put it through a warzone, it's definitely held up to range use and dry-fire drills without issue.
Comments From The Community
Here's a bit of what others are saying online about the Holosun 407C on Rugers:
"Excellent bang-for-the-buck, surprised at how good it is for the price."
"Don't think I'd trust it for duty use, but perfect for the range or home defense"
"If you need multiple reticles and solar power, hard to beat at this price range."
Bottom Line
If you want a reliable, feature-rich red dot for your Ruger GP100 without breaking the bank, the Holosun 407C is absolutely worth considering. It might not be the absolute toughest on the market, but it's significantly better than cheap knock-offs and makes shooting your revolver a blast.
Durability, Features & User-Friendly: Sig Sauer Romeo1 Pro
I've always loved my Ruger GP100 revolver for its reliability and classic good looks. But when it came to target acquisition at speed, iron sights left me wanting. Enter the Sig Sauer Romeo1 Pro red dot. Let me tell you, this sight has transformed my GP100 into a whole new beast.
Battery Life: Up to 10,000 hours (depending on reticle setting)
Weight: 1.3 oz
Waterproof: IPX-8 rated (submersible)
Top Features
Multiple Reticle Options: I chose the 6 MOA dot for a balance between speed and precision. Sig Sauer offers options to fit your shooting style.
Exceptional Durability: Built to handle recoil and abuse, perfect for a revolver.
Sublime Clarity: The glass is top-notch, offering a crisp sight picture with a bright, easy-to-see reticle.
MOTAC Technology: The sight automatically adjusts illumination based on light conditions.
Advantages
Unmatched Speed on Target: Red dots excel in close-quarters shooting, and the Romeo1 Pro makes acquiring targets lightning fast.
Improved Low-Light Performance: Those tricky dawn and dusk shooting situations are a breeze with the illuminated reticle.
Conceal Carry Capable: The compact size and lightweight design won't weigh down your carry setup.
Disadvantages
Price Tag: It's definitely a premium optic, costing more than some budget-friendly red dots.
Not Ideal for Long Range: Revolver red dots are best for close-to-medium distances.
My Experience
The Sig Sauer Romeo1 Pro has made a huge difference in my enjoyment and performance with the GP100. Target acquisition is noticeably faster, and I'm way more confident in my ability to hit center mass under pressure. It's also fantastic for low-light shooting situations.
What Others Are Saying
Here's a glimpse of what I've found online:
"Sig Sauer quality in a compact, feature-rich package."
"The best balance of price and performance on the market."
"Perfect upgrade for revolvers used for carry or home defense."
The Verdict
If you're looking for a top-of-the-line red dot to elevate your Ruger GP100, the Sig Sauer Romeo1 Pro is absolutely worth considering. It's a fantastic optic that delivers exceptional performance, durability, and features. While the price might be a steeper initial investment, the boost to your shooting will be well worth it.
I've been thinking of ditching the iron sights on my Ruger GP100, and the Vortex Venom has been on my radar. Vortex makes solid, dependable optics, and this red dot seems tailor-made for revolvers.
Specifications
Magnification: 1x
Reticle: Available in 3 MOA and 6 MOA red dot options
Battery Life: Up to 30,000 hours (3 MOA model) or 14,000 hours (6 MOA model)
Housing Material: ArmorTek coated aluminum
Waterproof: IPX6
Best Features
Top-Loading Battery: Makes battery changes a breeze – no need to unmount the sight.
Auto-Brightness: The dot automatically adjusts to light conditions, which is great for shifting environments
Rugged Construction: Venom's designed to handle the recoil of heavy handgun rounds
Advantages
Improves target acquisition speed and accuracy, especially for aging eyes like mine!
Easy to mount on revolvers with a compatible rail or mount
Great balance of features and Vortex reliability for the price
Disadvantages
Slightly Bulkier: It is a bit larger than some other micro red dots
No Auto On/Off Feature: You'll need to manually manage power to maximize battery life
My Experience
While I haven't run a Venom on my GP100 specifically, I do have one on a .22 pistol, and it's been terrific. The dot is clear, the adjustments are positive, and it just works. I've even dropped the pistol once (oops!), and the Venom zeroed perfectly afterward
Online Comments/Discussions
The Vortex Venom gets a lot of praise for its combination of toughness and user-friendliness. Here's the general vibe I see in forums:
"Perfect for a range revolver where you want fast sight acquisition."
"The top-load battery is seriously a genius design feature."
"Some people wish it was smaller, but honestly, it doesn't bother me."
Choosing the best red dot for your Ruger GP100 ultimately depends on individual preferences and budget. Consider factors like durability, features, and target acquisition speed when narrowing down your options. With the right red dot, you'll transform your GP100 into a powerful and versatile firearm.