The SAR 9 is a budget-friendly option that's gaining popularity. A red dot sight can give it an edge, so let's uncover the best options for enhancing your SAR 9. We'll dive into features, price points, and the advantages a red dot brings for making the most of this firearm.
Note: This article reflects my personal opinions. While the products mentioned may not be perfect for everyone, they might be useful for some readers.
Top 5 Best Red Dot Sights For SAR 9 in 2024
Leupold DeltaPoint Pro
I recently outfitted my SAR 9 with the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro red dot sight. Let me preface this by saying it's a top-of-the-line optic, and while it delivers fantastic performance, there are some things to consider before taking the plunge.
Built Like a Tank, Sized Like One:
Here's a breakdown of the DeltaPoint Pro's specs for a pistol application like the SAR 9:
Ruggedized steel housing: Built to endure heavy recoil and bumps, overkill for the SAR 9's milder recoil.
DiamondCoat external finish: Excellent scratch and weather resistance, but perhaps unnecessary for everyday carry.
5 MOA red dot: Ideal for close-range target acquisition, might be a bit large for some shooters on a pistol.
10 brightness settings: Superb control over dot intensity, but the SAR 9 might not demand such a wide range in most situations.
Motion sensor auto-activation (optional): A neat feature for quick response, but adds complexity and battery drain.
Performance on the SAR 9:
The Leupold DeltaPoint Pro boasts some undeniable advantages on the SAR 9:
Potentially Faster Aiming: The red dot can lead to faster target acquisition compared to iron sights, especially for new shooters.
Durability You Can Trust: The build quality is unmatched, ensuring the sight stays reliable for years.
All-Weather Functionality: Rain, dust, or bumps won't faze the DeltaPoint Pro.
A Few Considerations for the SAR 9:
While impressive, the DeltaPoint Pro also has some drawbacks for the SAR 9:
Cost: Leupold sights are a significant investment, and the DeltaPoint Pro is no exception.
Bulk and Weight: Compared to iron sights, the DeltaPoint Pro adds noticeable bulk and weight, potentially affecting handling and concealability.
Large Dot Size: The 5 MOA dot might be too big for precise aiming at longer distances with a pistol.
Iron Sight Replacement: Mounting the sight usually replaces factory iron sights. Back-up sights are available, but add cost and bulk.
My SAR 9 Transformed (Maybe a Bit Much):
The Leupold DeltaPoint Pro undeniably elevates the SAR 9 in terms of durability and all-weather performance. The red dot acquisition can be faster, but the 5 MOA dot might be better suited for larger targets at close range. The sight itself feels indestructible, but the weight and size might not be ideal for everyday carry.
The Online Chatter:
SAR 9 owner forums have mixed reviews on the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro. Some users love the bombproof build and potential speed benefits, but many consider it overkill for the SAR 9. The cost is a major point of discussion, with many recommending more budget-friendly red dot sights for a pistol application.
The Verdict: Consider Your Needs
The Leupold DeltaPoint Pro is an amazing red dot sight, but for the SAR 9, it might be more performance than you necessarily need. If you prioritize absolute ruggedness and all-weather reliability, it's a fantastic choice. However, if you're looking for a more budget-friendly option with a smaller footprint for everyday carry on your SAR 9, other red dot sights might be a better fit.
My SAR 9 pistol is a great shooter, but I wanted to explore the world of red dot sights to enhance my speed and accuracy. After some research, I landed on the Burris FastFire 3 – a solid choice that's become a perfect partner for my SAR 9. Here's why I think it's a great option.
Specs and Features:
Compact design: The FastFire 3 strikes a good balance between size and usability. It won't add excessive bulk to the SAR 9's profile.
Rugged construction: Burris optics are known for their durability, and the FastFire 3 can handle the recoil of the 9mm cartridge without issue.
3 MOA red dot reticle: This size offers a good compromise between fast target acquisition and achieving decent precision at typical pistol engagement distances.
Multiple brightness settings: Fine-tune the dot intensity for any lighting situation, from bright range days to low-light shooting scenarios.
Automatic shutoff feature: The sight automatically powers down after a period of inactivity, saving battery life.
What I love:
Fits the SAR 9 well: The size of the FastFire 3 complements the SAR 9's design, making it feel like a natural extension of the pistol.
Built to last: I can trust this sight to hold zero and function flawlessly, even with regular range use.
Ideal dot size for pistols: The 3 MOA red dot allows for quick target acquisition while still providing a precise aiming point for accurate shots.
Adaptable brightness for any situation: No matter the lighting, I can adjust the dot for optimal visibility, ensuring a clear sight picture.
Battery-saving automatic shutoff: This feature gives me peace of mind knowing the sight won't die unexpectedly when I need it most.
Downsides to consider:
Limited field of view compared to iron sights: As with most red dot sights, the field of view will be narrower than traditional iron sights. However, for pistol shooting at typical distances, it's not a major drawback.
Not the most feature-rich option: Compared to some higher-end red dot sights, the FastFire 3 offers a more basic feature set. However, for the price point, it delivers great value.
My experience:
Since mounting the Burris FastFire 3 on my SAR 9, my shooting has become noticeably faster and more accurate. The red dot makes acquiring targets significantly easier, especially when transitioning between targets quickly. The sight itself feels very well-built, and the automatic shutoff feature is a nice touch for battery conservation.
Online Buzz:
The Burris FastFire 3 is a popular choice for budget-minded pistol red dot sights on online forums. Users praise its durability, clear optics, and easy operation. While some might recommend a micro red dot for even more minimal carry or a sight with more advanced features, for those looking for a reliable and affordable red dot sight to enhance their SAR 9's performance, the Burris FastFire 3 seems to be a well-regarded option.
If you're looking for a solid red dot sight to elevate your SAR 9 pistol shooting without breaking the bank, the Burris FastFire 3 is definitely worth considering. It's a fantastic option that offers a good balance of features, performance, and value.
I'm always looking for ways to improve my SAR 9 pistol, especially for concealed carry. The C-MORE STS2 red dot sight piqued my interest with its compact size. Here's my experience mounting the STS2 on my SAR 9, along with the good, the bad, and why it might not be the ideal concealed carry optic for everyone.
SAR 9 and Concealed Carry:
Comfort is King: When it comes to concealed carry, comfort is paramount. A red dot sight shouldn't add unnecessary bulk or snag points.
Balance Matters: A lightweight pistol like the SAR 9 benefits from a red dot that won't throw off the balance while drawing or holstering.
C-MORE STS2 Specs and Features:
Magnification: 1x (no zoom)
Objective Lens Diameter: 19mm (among the smallest red dot sights)
Reticle Options: 6 MOA red dot (simple and effective)
Mount Options: Requires a specific mounting plate for the SAR 9 (adds cost and complexity)
Durability: Mil-Spec rated (should handle everyday carry bumps and dings).
Why the STS2 Shines:
Tiny Footprint: The STS2 is one of the smallest red dot sights on the market, making it attractive for concealed carry.
Streamlined Design: The sleek design minimizes snagging on clothing during draw and holster.
Clear Red Dot: The 6 MOA red dot is crisp and easy to see in various lighting conditions.
Some Things to Consider:
Limited Field of View: Due to its compact size, the field of view through the STS2 is noticeably narrower than some other red dot options.
Dim on Brightest Settings: While the red dot is clear, some users report it can be a bit dim on the brightest settings in full sunlight.
Battery Life Considerations: Battery life can be shorter than some competitors, especially with constant use.
My SAR 9 Experience:
The C-MORE STS2 definitely lives up to its reputation for size. It conceals well under my shirt without printing excessively. However, the limited field of view took some getting used to. Also, on a bright sunny day, I found myself wishing the red dot was just a touch brighter.
Online Chatter:
Reviews for the STS2 are mixed for concealed carry. People who prioritize a truly miniature sight for deep concealment seem to love it. However, some users mention the drawbacks of the limited field of view, potentially dimmer dot in bright light, and shorter battery life compared to other red dot options.
The Verdict:
The C-MORE STS2 can be a good option for those who prioritize a very small red dot sight for concealed carry with their SAR 9. It's comfortable to carry and disappears under clothing well. However, the limited field of view, potentially dimmer dot in bright conditions, and shorter battery life might be dealbreakers for some. If those aren't concerns, the STS2 is worth considering. But, for others, a slightly larger red dot with a wider field of view and better battery life might be a better choice for the SAR 9, especially for everyday concealed carry.
When it comes to optics for my SAR 9, I wanted a red dot sight that could keep up with its performance without breaking the bank. The Swampfox Kingslayer has become my go-to choice, offering a surprising amount of quality and features for the price. Here's why it's a great fit for my SAR 9:
Specs:
Ruggedized Construction: Built to take bumps and scrapes, perfect for range use and tactical applications.
2 MOA Dot Reticle: A good balance between speed and precision for pistol shooting.
IPX8 Waterproof Rating: Handles rain, snow, and whatever else I might encounter at the range or in the field.
Multiple Brightness Settings: Allows fine-tuning the reticle for various lighting conditions.
Best Features:
The price tag is fantastic for the quality you get. The Kingslayer feels like a much more expensive sight.
The 2 MOA dot is a great all-around choice, offering a balance between quick acquisition and precise aiming.
The brightness settings are easy to adjust, even with gloves on.
Swampfox's customer service gets high marks online, which gives me peace of mind.