The Glock 20, known for its formidable 10mm caliber, is a favorite among hunters and those seeking a powerful self-defense handgun.
A reliable red dot sight can greatly enhance the Glock 20’s effectiveness, especially in rapid target acquisition and shooting accuracy.
After extensively testing various models and diving deep into community feedback, I have compiled a list of the top red dot sights perfectly suited for the Glock 20.
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
Magnification: 1x
Lens Size: 22x16mm
Weight: 1.2 oz with battery
Battery Life: Up to 4 years at setting 4 of 8
Water Resistance: Up to 20 meters
Best Features
The Trijicon RMR Type 2 is renowned for its durability and the ability to withstand heavy recoil, making it an ideal match for the robust Glock 20. It features a patented design that absorbs impact and diverts stress away from the lens, increasing its durability.
Pros
Exceptionally rugged and durable
Bright and clear optic that enhances target visibility
Automatic brightness settings with manual override options
Cons
Premium pricing may be a barrier for some
Smaller window size may not appeal to all shooters
Experience and Customer Comments
Mounting the Trijicon RMR Type 2 on my Glock 20 transformed the pistol into an even more reliable tool for both hunting and self-defense. Its robust construction handled the 10mm recoil without any issues. Online comments often highlight its reliability and longevity, though some shooters mention the high cost as a significant investment.
Battery Life: Up to 150 hours on the highest setting, 30,000 hours on lower settings
Water Resistance: Waterproof
Best Features
The Vortex Optics Venom offers a large and clear lens, facilitating a quick sight picture and easy target acquisition. The top-load battery design ensures that you don’t need to remove the sight from the firearm to change the battery.
Pros
Wide field of view with a high-quality lens
Easy to access and replace the battery
Affordable price with an excellent warranty
Cons
Battery life on the highest setting is relatively short
Some reports of sensitivity to extreme weather conditions
Experience and Customer Comments
Using the Vortex Venom on my Glock 20 has been a pleasure, especially during extended shooting sessions. The wide lens and clear display significantly aid in quick targeting. The online community frequently praises its ease of use and customer service, though there are occasional concerns about its performance in very cold or wet conditions.
The Holosun HS507C X2 stands out with its Solar Failsafe and Multi-Reticle System (MRS), allowing users to select between a dot only, ring only, or a dot and ring combination, enhancing versatility for different shooting scenarios.
Pros
Long battery life and solar backup for reliability
Multiple reticle options cater to various preferences and situations
Robust build quality suited for rugged use
Cons
Complexity of the reticle system might be overwhelming for beginners
Solar panel effectiveness can vary in different lighting conditions
Experience and Customer Comments
The Holosun HS507C X2 has proven to be a robust and versatile sight on my Glock 20. The ability to switch between different reticles makes it adaptable to both hunting and tactical situations. Users in forums often commend its innovative features and reliability, though some find the multiple reticle options unnecessary and prefer simpler sights.
The Burris FastFire III is known for its lightweight design and ease of use, featuring an automatic brightness sensor and a high-quality lens that provides a clear view of the target.
Pros
Lightweight and compact, maintaining the firearm’s balance
Easy installation and operation
Good optical clarity with automatic brightness adjustment
Cons
Shorter battery life compared to other models
Some durability concerns under extensive rough use
Experience and Customer Comments
The FastFire III has been a reliable red dot sight on my Glock 20, particularly valued for its simplicity and effectiveness in quick target acquisition. It’s popular in online forums for its performance and ease of use, although some users question its ruggedness after prolonged heavy use.
Choosing the best red dot sight for a Glock 20 requires considering several factors to ensure compatibility, durability, and performance. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision:
1. Mounting Compatibility
MOS Compatibility: Ensure the red dot sight is compatible with the Glock MOS (Modular Optic System) if your Glock 20 has this feature.
Mounting Plates/Adapters: Check if you need a specific mounting plate or adapter for non-MOS models.
2. Size and Weight
Compact Design: A compact and lightweight design is crucial to maintain the balance and handling of the Glock 20.
Low Profile: A low-profile sight minimizes snags and enhances concealability.
3. Durability
Build Quality: Look for sights made from robust materials like aluminum or steel.
Waterproof and Shockproof: Ensure the sight is rated for waterproof and shockproof performance to withstand harsh conditions and recoil.
4. Battery Life
Long Battery Life: Opt for red dot sights with long battery life, preferably with auto-shutoff features to conserve power.
Common Battery Types: Sights using readily available batteries (e.g., CR2032) are more convenient.
5. Reticle Options
Reticle Size: A 3 MOA or 6 MOA dot is common. Smaller dots offer more precision, while larger dots are easier to see quickly.
Brightness Settings: Multiple brightness settings, including night vision compatibility, can be beneficial for various lighting conditions.
6. Field of View
Wide Field of View: A larger window allows for quicker target acquisition and better situational awareness.
7. Reputation and Reviews
Brand Reliability: Choose from reputable brands known for quality and customer support, such as Trijicon, Leupold, Holosun, and Vortex.
User Reviews: Look at user reviews and ratings to gauge real-world performance and reliability.
8. Price
Budget: Determine your budget, balancing cost with the features and durability you need.
Warranty: A good warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment.
Conclusion
Choosing the best red dot sight for the Glock 20 involves balancing factors like durability, ease of use, battery life, and how well the sight enhances the shooting experience.
Each of these red dot sights offers unique advantages that can significantly improve the performance of the Glock 20, whether it's for hunting, competitive shooting, or self-defense.
From the rugged Trijicon RMR Type 2 to the versatile Holosun HS507C X2, there’s a sight here to meet every shooter's needs and preferences.