The 5.7x28mm caliber, known for its high velocity and flat trajectory, is favored for both personal defense and small game hunting.
Selecting the right red dot sight for firearms chambered in this caliber is crucial to maximize these characteristics, especially for enhancing accuracy and target acquisition speed.
Here, I explore some of the best red dot sights that I've personally tested on my 5.7x28mm firearms, alongside detailed feedback from the user community.
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 exceptionally rugged and designed to withstand the demands of tactical situations. Its forged aluminum housing and patented shape that diverts the force of an impact away from the lens, ensures durability.
Pros
Extremely robust, suitable for harsh environments
Crisp and clear 3.25 MOA red dot which aids in quick target acquisition
Automatic brightness settings and a manual override for different lighting conditions
Cons
Premium price point may be a deterrent for some
Some users report difficulty with the smaller window size in fast-paced scenarios
Experience and Customer Comments
Mounting the Trijicon RMR Type 2 on my FN Five-seveN was seamless. The sight performed exceptionally well, particularly at longer distances where the 5.7x28mm round excels. Reviewers often commend its battery life and durability, although some consider the cost and small viewing window as potential drawbacks.
The Holosun HS507C X2 is a versatile and user-friendly red dot sight that features a Solar Failsafe, Shake Awake technology, and a Multi-Reticle System (MRS). This allows users to choose between a dot only, ring only, or dot and ring reticle combination.
Pros
Long battery life enhanced by solar power
Multiple reticle options provide versatility for different shooting scenarios
Relatively affordable with high-end features
Cons
Some shooters may find the reticle options overly complex
Reports of solar panel performance issues in low light conditions
Experience and Customer Comments
Using the Holosun HS507C X2 on my PS90 was a game-changer in terms of operational versatility. The ability to switch between reticle types based on the situation is a significant advantage. Online reviews generally praise its robust feature set and affordability, though some discuss the complexity and reliability of the solar feature under various conditions.
The Aimpoint Micro T-2 is known for its superior build quality and exceptional optical clarity. It features advanced lens coatings that enhance the red dot’s visibility even in bright sunlight.
Pros
Extremely durable, with high resistance to shock and vibration
Clear, bright dot that excels in various lighting conditions
Compact and lightweight, ideal for handguns chambered in 5.7x28mm
Cons
High cost, positioning it at the premium end of the market
Limited features beyond the basic red dot functionality
Experience and Customer Comments
The Aimpoint Micro T-2 has been a reliable companion on my Five-seveN, particularly noteworthy for maintaining zero over hundreds of rounds. It's simplistic yet effective, making it a favorite among users who prize durability and reliability. However, its high price is often noted in reviews 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
Vortex Optics Venom offers a large, clear window and a 3 MOA dot that provides a balance between precision and speed. It also features an auto-brightness mode that adjusts the dot intensity based on ambient light conditions.
Pros
Large window provides an excellent field of view
Easy-to-use power and dot intensity controls
Good value for money with generous warranty
Cons
Battery life could be better, especially on higher settings
Some reports of the auto-brightness feature being too reactive or not reactive enough
Experience and Customer Comments
The Venom has been a solid performer on my Ruger-57, particularly due to its wide field of view and ease of use. It suits the high-speed, precise nature of the 5.7x28mm round well. Users often mention its value for money and customer service, though there are mixed feelings about the effectiveness of the auto-brightness feature.
Water Resistance: IPX-7 rated for complete water immersion up to 1 meter
Best Features
The Sig Sauer Romeo5 incorporates MOTAC (Motion Activated Illumination), which helps conserve battery life by powering down the unit when not in use and instantly activating it when it senses motion.
Pros
MOTAC technology effectively extends battery life
Robust and weather-resistant design
Very clear and precise 2 MOA dot
Cons
Some users prefer a manual brightness adjustment over the automatic setting
The included mount may not be ideal for all setups, requiring additional investment
Experience and Customer Comments
The Romeo5 on my PS90 has proven to be extremely effective, particularly in dynamic shooting scenarios where I need the sight to be 'always on' the moment I pick up the gun. It’s praised in online forums for its reliability and battery efficiency, though some critique its automatic brightness settings and mount compatibility.
When selecting the best red dot sight for a 5.7x28mm firearm, consider the following factors to ensure optimal performance and accuracy:
Reticle Size and Type:
Dot Size: Smaller dots (1-3 MOA) are better for precision, while larger dots (4-6 MOA) can be quicker to acquire in close quarters.
Reticle Style: Some red dots offer additional features like circle-dot reticles, which can be beneficial for quick target acquisition.
Durability and Build Quality:
Ensure the sight is made from high-quality materials like aluminum or steel.
Look for features such as shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof to withstand various conditions.
Battery Life:
Opt for a sight with long battery life to reduce the frequency of battery changes.
Consider models with auto-shutoff features to conserve battery.
Brightness Settings:
Multiple brightness settings are important for adjusting the dot intensity based on lighting conditions.
Check for night vision compatibility if you plan to use the firearm in low-light environments.
Mounting Options:
Ensure the red dot sight is compatible with your firearm's rail system (e.g., Picatinny or Weaver).
Check if the sight includes necessary mounting hardware or if additional accessories are needed.
Parallax and Eye Relief:
Look for parallax-free designs to maintain accuracy from different shooting positions.
Unlimited eye relief allows for versatile mounting options and quick target acquisition.
Weight and Size:
Choose a lightweight and compact red dot sight to maintain the firearm's balance and handling.
Price and Warranty:
Determine your budget and compare features within that range.
A good warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment.
FAQs
Why choose a red dot sight for a 5.7x28mm firearm?
Red dot sights enhance target acquisition speed and accuracy, which is ideal for the high-velocity, flat-shooting 5.7x28mm cartridge.
What is the ideal dot size for a 5.7x28mm firearm?
A 2-3 MOA dot is generally a good balance for precision and quick target acquisition.
Do I need a night vision-compatible red dot for a 5.7x28mm firearm?
Night vision compatibility can be beneficial if you plan to use the firearm in low-light or night-time conditions, but it may not be necessary for all users.
How important is battery life in a red dot sight?
Long battery life is crucial for reliability and convenience, reducing the need for frequent battery replacements.
Are there specific brands known for making quality red dot sights for 5.7x28mm firearms?
Brands like Trijicon, Aimpoint, Holosun, and Vortex are well-regarded for their durable and high-performance red dot sights.
Can I use a magnifier with my red dot sight?
Yes, many red dot sights are compatible with magnifiers, which can enhance target identification and precision at longer ranges.
Is a co-witness setup necessary?
Co-witnessing with iron sights can provide a backup aiming method if the red dot fails, which is useful but not mandatory.
What should I do if my red dot sight loses zero frequently?
Ensure the sight is properly mounted and torqued to the manufacturer's specifications. If the problem persists, check for potential defects or consider upgrading to a higher-quality model.
Conclusion
Choosing the best red dot for a 5.7x28mm firearm involves considering a combination of reliability, ease of use, battery life, and how well the sight complements the high-velocity, flat-trajectory characteristics of the caliber.
Each of these red dot sights presents a robust option, with varying features to suit different preferences and requirements.
Whether you're using a Five-seveN pistol or a PS90 carbine, integrating one of these top red dot sights can significantly enhance your shooting accuracy and enjoyment.