The Glock 19 is a legendary handgun, celebrated for its reliability, versatility, and compact size. Whether you’re a seasoned law enforcement officer, a competitive shooter, or a responsible concealed carrier, enhancing your Glock 19 with a red dot sight can dramatically improve your accuracy and speed. This guide cuts through the noise to identify the best red dots for Glock 19 models, transforming your firearm into a more potent and intuitive tool for any situation. We’ll delve into crucial factors like durability, battery life, reticle options, and ease of use, ensuring you find the perfect optic to elevate your shooting experience.
Navigating the vast landscape of red dot sights can be daunting, with countless options promising peak performance. However, not all red dots are created equal, especially when paired with the specific demands of a Glock 19. We’ve rigorously tested and reviewed a selection of top-tier red dots, focusing on those that offer exceptional value, robust construction, and seamless integration with your Glock 19. From budget-friendly champions to premium powerhouses, this article will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision and confidently select the best red dots for Glock 19 to meet your individual needs and budget.
Before we get to our review of the best red dots for glock 19, let’s browse through some relevant products on Amazon:
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Red Dots for Your Glock 19: A Modern Advantage
The Glock 19, a cornerstone of concealed carry and professional service, has long been praised for its reliability and versatility. In recent years, the integration of red dot sights, also known as reflex sights, onto pistol platforms has revolutionized aiming and shooting capabilities. For the Glock 19, this upgrade offers a tangible advantage, allowing for faster target acquisition, improved accuracy, and a more instinctive shooting experience, especially in dynamic situations.
Choosing the right red dot for your Glock 19 involves considering several key factors. You’ll want to think about the footprint of the optic, ensuring it’s compatible with your pistol’s slide cut (if any) or that you’re willing to mill the slide for a proper fit. Battery life is another crucial element, as is the durability and water resistance of the optic, especially if you plan to use it for concealed carry in various environmental conditions.
The market offers a wide array of red dot sights, each with its own set of features and price points. From compact micro red dots designed for minimal snagging and weight to slightly larger options that might offer a wider field of view or more robust construction, there’s a solution for nearly every preference and budget. Understanding the nuances of these options is key to finding the best red dots for Glock 19 that will serve you well.
Ultimately, equipping your Glock 19 with a red dot sight is an investment in your shooting performance. It’s a modification that can profoundly impact your speed and precision, making follow-up shots quicker and your overall aim more intuitive. With the right optic, your Glock 19 becomes an even more formidable tool for self-defense, competition, or duty.
Top 5 Best Red Dots For Glock 19
Trijicon RMR HRS (RM06-C-700629)
The Trijicon RMR HRS is an exceptional choice for a Glock 19, offering unparalleled durability and clarity. Designed to withstand the rigors of duty use, its rugged construction and hermetically sealed housing ensure reliable performance in any environment. The HRS variant, with its hardcoat anodized finish, provides excellent resistance to wear and corrosion, making it a long-term investment for your firearm. The bright, crisp red dot is easily visible in all lighting conditions, and the intuitive manual brightness controls allow for quick adjustments.
For Glock 19 owners who demand the absolute best, the Trijicon RMR HRS delivers. Its innovative design, including a patented “Dual-Illumination” system that uses both tritium and a fiber optic illuminator, offers a self-powered red dot that is always ready. The wide field of view and the absence of parallax make for rapid target acquisition, a critical advantage in high-stress situations. While it comes at a premium price point, the RMR HRS justifies its cost with its robust build quality, unmatched reliability, and superior optical performance.
Holosun SCS (Solar Charging Sight) (SCS-320150004)
The Holosun SCS is a game-changer for Glock 19 owners seeking a low-profile, highly functional red dot. Its standout feature is the solar charging capability, which supplements the battery life and ensures the sight remains powered even in bright sunlight. This innovative system, coupled with an efficient LED, provides a consistently visible red dot. The SCS is designed to mount directly to optics-ready Glock slides without the need for adapter plates, resulting in a streamlined and snag-free profile.
The SCS offers excellent adaptability with its multi-reticle system, allowing you to switch between a simple dot, a circle-dot, or just a circle. This versatility makes it suitable for a variety of shooting disciplines. The automatic brightness adjustment, which can be overridden by manual control, provides convenience and ensures optimal visibility. For a Glock 19, the SCS offers a compelling blend of modern technology, robust performance, and a sleek integration that enhances the firearm’s handling characteristics.
Leupold DeltaPoint Pro (179957)
The Leupold DeltaPoint Pro is a premium red dot sight that brings Leupold’s renowned optical quality and ruggedness to your Glock 19. Its large, clear lens provides an expansive field of view, facilitating quick and easy target acquisition. The construction is exceptionally durable, built to withstand recoil and environmental abuse. The motion-activated illumination system is intelligently designed to turn the dot on when motion is detected and off when at rest, conserving battery life while ensuring the sight is ready when you are.
The DeltaPoint Pro’s intuitive controls and bright, crisp red dot make it a pleasure to use. The battery compartment is conveniently located on the side, allowing for battery changes without removing the sight from your slide, a significant advantage for maintenance and upkeep. Its robust housing and scratch-resistant lenses ensure long-term performance and clarity. For those who prioritize optical clarity, build quality, and a user-friendly experience on their Glock 19, the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro is a top-tier option.
Aimpoint Acro P-2 (12831)
The Aimpoint Acro P-2 is a testament to Aimpoint’s legendary reputation for robust and reliable red dot sights, now available for your Glock 19. This enclosed emitter design offers superior protection against the elements, ensuring consistent performance in rain, mud, and dust. The P-2 boasts an incredibly long battery life, measured in years, thanks to its highly efficient LED and advanced power management. The red dot itself is sharp and clear, with multiple brightness settings to adapt to any lighting condition.
Designed for demanding use, the Acro P-2’s compact footprint and rugged construction make it an ideal companion for a Glock 19. Its fully enclosed emitter protects the internal components from impact and environmental damage, giving you confidence in its performance under pressure. The sight’s intuitive operation and the unmistakable quality of Aimpoint optics make it a standout choice for those seeking ultimate reliability and durability for their handgun.
Sig Sauer ROMEO-X Compact (SORX21001)
The Sig Sauer ROMEO-X Compact is a compelling option for Glock 19 owners looking for a modern, feature-rich red dot sight. Its compact profile and direct-slide mounting capability for optics-ready Glocks contribute to a low-profile and snag-free setup. The sight features an innovative battery compartment located on the side, allowing for quick battery changes without needing to remove the optic from the pistol. This thoughtful design ensures minimal downtime for your firearm.
The ROMEO-X Compact offers exceptional clarity and brightness, with a crisp red dot that is easily visible in a variety of lighting conditions. Its intuitive controls allow for simple adjustment of brightness levels. The robust construction and high-quality materials used in its build provide confidence in its durability and performance on a handgun. For a Glock 19, the ROMEO-X Compact provides a blend of modern design, user-friendly features, and reliable operation that makes it a strong contender in the market.
Why Buy Red Dots for Your Glock 19?
The Glock 19 is a remarkably versatile handgun, widely favored by law enforcement, military personnel, and civilian owners alike. While its iron sights are reliable, many users find that upgrading to a red dot optic significantly enhances their shooting experience. The primary reason for this is speed and accuracy. A red dot allows for faster target acquisition because the shooter’s eye focuses on the target, with the dot automatically aligning itself. This is particularly beneficial in dynamic shooting scenarios where time is of the essence.
Furthermore, red dot sights can greatly improve accuracy, especially for those who struggle with traditional iron sights. Factors like astigmatism, aging eyesight, or inconsistent sight alignment can make precise aiming with iron sights challenging. A red dot provides a single, clear aiming point that remains consistent regardless of eye fatigue or minor inconsistencies in cheek weld. This consistent aiming point helps shooters achieve tighter groups and more reliable hits at various distances.
The decision to purchase a red dot for a Glock 19 often comes down to enhancing performance and adaptability. Many modern pistol competitions, such as USPSA or IDPA, allow or even encourage the use of red dot sights, recognizing their contribution to faster times and higher scores. For personal defense, the ability to quickly and accurately engage a threat is paramount, and a red dot sight can be a critical component in achieving that. If you are considering this upgrade, researching the best red dots for Glock 19 will lead you to a variety of quality options.
Ultimately, investing in a red dot sight for your Glock 19 is an investment in improved shooting capabilities. It addresses common challenges with iron sights, boosts speed and accuracy, and aligns with modern trends in pistol shooting. Whether for competition, professional use, or personal protection, a red dot sight can transform how you interact with and perform with your Glock 19.
Understanding Red Dot Sight Technology
Red dot sights, also known as reflex sights or red dot optics, offer a significant advantage for handgun aiming by projecting a visible red dot onto a lens. This illuminated aiming point is parallax-free, meaning the dot remains stationary regardless of your eye’s position behind the sight. This drastically reduces the need for precise eye alignment, allowing for faster target acquisition and improved accuracy, especially during dynamic shooting or in low-light conditions. Unlike traditional iron sights, which require aligning three distinct points (rear sight, front sight, and target), a red dot simplifies the process to a single focal point on the target.
The core technology behind most red dot sights involves a light-emitting diode (LED) that projects an image of a reticle onto a reflective lens. The brightness of this dot is typically adjustable, allowing you to adapt to varying ambient light conditions. Brighter settings are ideal for daylight shooting, while lower settings prevent over-illumination and distraction in darker environments. Many modern red dots also feature shake-awake technology, where the optic automatically powers on when it detects movement, conserving battery life.
Understanding the differences in reticle types is also crucial. While a simple single dot (often 3 MOA or 6 MOA) is the most common, some sights offer multiple reticles, such as dots with circles or other patterns. The choice of reticle can be a matter of personal preference, with smaller dots generally favored for precision at longer distances, and larger dots for faster acquisition at closer ranges.
Key Features to Consider for Your Glock 19 Red Dot
When selecting a red dot for your Glock 19, several key features should be paramount in your decision-making process. The size and footprint of the optic are critical, as it needs to securely mount to your Glock 19’s slide, often requiring a milled slide or a compatible mounting plate. Look for optics specifically designed for pistol-sized applications to ensure a proper fit and prevent overhang or instability.
Durability and ruggedness are also essential. Your Glock 19 is likely to be subjected to recoil, environmental elements, and potential impacts. Opt for red dots constructed from robust materials like aircraft-grade aluminum and featuring a high degree of water and shock resistance. Lens coatings play a role in durability and clarity; multi-coated lenses can enhance light transmission and reduce glare.
Battery life and ease of battery replacement are practical considerations that can greatly impact your experience. Many red dots utilize common button-cell batteries, but the duration and accessibility of replacement are important. Some models offer top-loading battery compartments, allowing you to change the battery without removing the optic from your firearm, which is a significant convenience.
Mounting and Compatibility with Your Glock 19
The successful integration of a red dot sight onto your Glock 19 hinges on proper mounting and ensuring compatibility between the optic and your firearm. Most modern Glock 19 models are optic-ready, meaning they come with a slide milled to accept specific optic footprints. However, not all red dots share the same mounting pattern. It’s crucial to identify your Glock 19’s optic cut or the type of mounting plate it accepts and then choose a red dot that directly matches or comes with the appropriate adapter plate.
For Glock 19s that are not optic-ready, or if you wish to use an optic with a different footprint than your slide’s native cut, slide milling services are available from various gunsmiths. This process involves precisely machining the slide to accommodate your chosen red dot. Alternatively, mounting plates can be used, which are typically secured to the slide using the rear sight dovetail or by replacing the rear sight itself. These plates then provide a platform for mounting the red dot.
When considering mounting, ensure that the red dot sight does not obstruct your ability to use your factory iron sights, if that’s a desired backup. Many red dots are designed to co-witness with iron sights, meaning the red dot appears above the iron sights, allowing you to use either aiming system as needed. This is a valuable feature for reliability and redundancy.
Zeroing Your Red Dot Sight for Optimal Accuracy
Once your red dot sight is securely mounted to your Glock 19, the next critical step is zeroing it. This process aligns the point of impact of your firearm with the illuminated aiming point of the red dot. Zeroing ensures that when you place the red dot on your target, your bullet will strike that same point. This is a straightforward but essential procedure that guarantees the effectiveness of your red dot optic.
The adjustment turrets on most red dot sights control the elevation (vertical) and windage (horizontal) of the reticle. These turrets typically click with each adjustment, representing a specific amount of movement at a given distance (often referred to as MOA, Minute of Angle). To zero, you will typically fire a group of shots at a known distance, for example, 10 or 25 yards, and then use the adjustment turrets to move the point of aim until it matches the point of impact.
It’s a good practice to start with a rough zero at a closer distance, such as 5 or 10 yards, to get the dot close to the impact area, and then move to your desired zeroing distance. Keep track of your adjustments, and when you achieve your desired zero, ensure the turrets are securely locked down or that the protective caps are reinstalled. Regularly re-checking your zero, especially after significant recoil or if the optic has been bumped, is also recommended for maintained accuracy.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Finding the Best Red Dots for Glock 19
The Glock 19 is a cornerstone of concealed carry and a versatile handgun for self-defense and competition. Equipping it with a red dot sight can dramatically improve your speed and accuracy, allowing for faster target acquisition and more precise shooting, especially under pressure. However, navigating the vast market of red dot sights can be daunting. This guide will walk you through the essential factors to consider to ensure you choose the best red dot for your Glock 19, transforming your shooting experience.
1. Optic Footprint and Glock MOS System Compatibility
Understanding the Importance of the Footprint
When selecting a red dot sight for your Glock 19, the first and most crucial consideration is the optic’s footprint. This refers to the mounting pattern of the sight. Glock’s popular Modular Optic System (MOS) allows for direct mounting of various red dots, but it doesn’t natively support every footprint. For Glock 19 MOS models, the most common and widely compatible footprints are typically RMR (Trijicon Reflex Miniaturized Sight) and its various licensed clones, or theDoctor footprint. Many manufacturers now produce optics with RMR-compatible footprints, offering a broader range of choices.
Ensuring a Secure and Stable Mount
Directly mounting an optic to your Glock 19 slide, especially with the MOS system, requires careful attention to the footprint. Using an adapter plate is often necessary if the optic’s footprint doesn’t directly match the slide’s mounting cuts. However, many modern red dots are designed with RMR footprints, which are extremely popular for handgun optics. Always verify the optic’s specified footprint and compare it to your Glock 19’s slide configuration, or the necessary adapter plate if you have an MOS slide. A proper fit ensures a secure mount, preventing the optic from shifting or becoming loose during recoil, which is paramount for maintaining zero and reliable performance.
2. Lens Size and Field of View
The Impact of Lens Diameter
The diameter of the red dot sight’s lens significantly influences your field of view and how quickly you can acquire your target. Smaller lenses, while often more compact, can present a more restricted view, potentially making it harder to find the dot, especially when drawing from a holster or shooting on the move. Larger lenses offer a wider window, allowing you to see more of your surroundings and making it easier to keep the dot within your sight picture, even with less-than-ideal eye positioning.
Balancing Size and Practicality
For a Glock 19, which is often used for concealed carry, an oversized optic might not be ideal due to potential snagging or an uncomfortably large profile. However, significantly small lenses can hinder performance. Mid-sized lenses, typically in the 20mm to 25mm range, often strike an excellent balance, offering a good field of view without adding excessive bulk. Consider your intended use – if you prioritize rapid target acquisition in dynamic situations, a slightly larger lens might be beneficial. For everyday carry where discretion is key, a more compact, but still functional, lens size could be preferred.
3. Dot Size (MOA) and Brightness Settings
Choosing the Right Minute of Angle
The dot size, measured in Minutes of Angle (MOA), determines how large the red dot appears at a specific distance. Common dot sizes for handgun red dots range from 2 MOA to 6 MOA. A smaller dot (e.g., 2 MOA) offers greater precision at longer distances, allowing for more precise aiming. A larger dot (e.g., 6 MOA) is easier to see quickly at closer ranges and in high-stress situations, but can obscure the target at greater distances.
Adaptive Brightness for Varied Conditions
Brightness settings are crucial for ensuring the dot is visible in all lighting conditions. Look for a red dot with a sufficient number of brightness levels, ideally including both very dim settings for low-light or nighttime use and very bright settings for direct sunlight. Many modern red dots also feature automatic brightness adjustment, which can be incredibly convenient. This feature uses a light sensor to automatically dial in the optimal brightness based on ambient light conditions, ensuring your dot is always visible without being overbearing.
4. Durability and Construction
Built to Withstand the Recoil
A red dot sight on a pistol, especially one like the Glock 19, will endure significant recoil with every shot. Therefore, robust construction is paramount. Look for optics made from durable materials like aircraft-grade aluminum. The housing should be solid and well-sealed to protect the internal electronics from shock, vibration, and moisture. Consider the glass quality as well; it should be scratch-resistant and coated to reduce glare and improve light transmission.
Waterproofing and Fog Resistance
Given the diverse environments in which a handgun might be used, a degree of water and fog resistance is highly desirable. Many quality red dots are O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged, making them waterproof and fog-proof. This ensures that the optic will continue to function reliably even if exposed to rain, humidity, or temperature changes that could cause internal fogging. This level of durability provides peace of mind and consistent performance in challenging conditions, making it one of the best red dots for Glock 19 users.
5. Battery Life and Power Source
The Importance of Extended Battery Life
One of the most critical, yet often overlooked, aspects of a red dot sight is its battery life. You don’t want your optic to fail when you need it most. Look for red dots that offer extended battery life, often measured in tens of thousands of hours, especially on lower brightness settings. This longevity means you can leave the optic on and be confident it will be ready when you need it. Consider how often you are willing to change the battery.
Convenience of Battery Replacement
Battery replacement methods vary. Some optics require removing the entire sight from the slide to access the battery compartment, which is inconvenient and can disrupt your zero. Others feature side-mounted battery trays, allowing you to change the battery without dismounting the optic. This side-mount design is a significant advantage, as it makes battery changes quick and easy and helps maintain your zero. Always check the battery type used (commonly CR2032) and its accessibility.
6. Brand Reputation and Warranty
Trusting Established Brands
When investing in an optic for your firearm, brand reputation plays a significant role. Established manufacturers with a proven track record in producing reliable and high-performing optics for firearms are generally a safer bet. Research brands known for their innovation, quality control, and customer service. Companies that specialize in handgun optics are often a good starting point, as they understand the unique demands of this application.
The Peace of Mind of a Good Warranty
A strong warranty offers peace of mind and demonstrates the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. Look for brands that offer a limited lifetime warranty or a substantial warranty period covering defects in materials and workmanship. A good warranty can protect your investment against manufacturing flaws and ensure that you have support if any issues arise with your red dot sight after purchase. This commitment from the manufacturer is a key indicator of a quality product.
FAQs
What is a red dot sight and how does it work on a Glock 19?
A red dot sight, also known as a reflex sight or red dot optic, is a non-magnifying optical sight that presents a red illuminated reticle (usually a dot) onto a lens. This dot acts as your aiming point. When you look through the sight, the dot appears to float in front of the target, allowing for faster and more intuitive aiming compared to traditional iron sights.
For a Glock 19, a red dot sight is mounted either directly to the slide (if the slide is milled for it) or via an adapter plate that replaces the rear sight. This provides a larger, more forgiving aiming point, especially beneficial in low-light conditions or when shooting at speed. The illuminated dot can be adjusted for brightness to suit ambient light conditions.
Are red dot sights durable enough for everyday carry and training?
Modern red dot sights designed for firearms are built with robust materials like aircraft-grade aluminum and are sealed to be waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-resistant. Many are specifically engineered to withstand the recoil of various firearms, including pistols. Reputable manufacturers often subject their optics to rigorous testing to ensure they can handle the demands of daily carry, concealed carry, and intensive training sessions.
While durability is high for quality optics, it’s still essential to choose a red dot specifically rated for pistol use. Factors like battery life, lens coatings for clarity, and secure mounting are crucial for reliable performance. With proper selection and care, a good red dot sight will be a dependable tool for your Glock 19.
What are the main benefits of using a red dot sight on a Glock 19?
The primary benefit of using a red dot sight on a Glock 19 is significantly improved speed and accuracy in target acquisition. The illuminated dot is easier and faster to find than aligning iron sights, especially under stress or in dynamic shooting scenarios. This leads to quicker follow-up shots and a more consistent aiming experience.
Beyond speed, red dot sights can also enhance accuracy, particularly for shooters who struggle with traditional sights due to vision issues or astigmatism. The single focal point eliminates the need to focus on three separate points (front sight, rear sight, and target) simultaneously, simplifying the aiming process and allowing the shooter to concentrate on the target.
Do I need a special slide or adapter to mount a red dot on my Glock 19?
Yes, most Glock 19 models require either a slide that has been “milled” or “cut” for a red dot optic or an adapter plate. A milled slide has a specific mounting footprint machined directly into the top of the slide, allowing the red dot to sit lower and more securely.
Alternatively, red dot adapter plates, often called “optic cut plates,” can replace the rear iron sight. These plates come with different mounting patterns to accommodate various red dot footprints. While adapter plates are generally less ideal than a direct mill due to potential height and stability differences, they offer a more accessible and often more affordable way to mount an optic if your slide isn’t already equipped.
What should I look for in a red dot sight for a Glock 19?
When choosing a red dot for your Glock 19, prioritize a compact and lightweight design that won’t significantly alter the pistol’s balance or snag on clothing during concealed carry. Look for a sight with a clear and crisp dot, preferably adjustable for brightness to adapt to various lighting conditions. Durability and water/fog resistance are essential for reliability in different environments.
Consider the reticle size (e.g., 3 MOA or 6 MOA dot) and battery life. A smaller dot is often preferred for precision, while a larger dot can be faster to acquire. Long battery life, especially with motion activation (which turns the sight on when it detects movement), is a significant convenience. Also, ensure the optic has a compatible mounting footprint with your milled slide or chosen adapter plate.
How do I zero a red dot sight on my Glock 19?
Zeroing a red dot sight involves aligning the point of impact of your bullets with the red dot reticle. The first step is a “bore sight” alignment: with the slide removed, look down the barrel and adjust the red dot’s internal adjustments until the red dot is centered over the barrel’s line of sight.
Once bore-sighted, mount the red dot securely on the slide. Then, at a safe shooting range, fire a few shots at a target at your desired zero distance (e.g., 10 or 15 yards). Use the adjustment turrets on the red dot sight (typically labeled “up/down” and “left/right”) to move the red dot to match the point of impact of your shots. Continue making small adjustments and firing until your shots consistently hit where the red dot is placed.
Can I still use my iron sights with a red dot mounted on my Glock 19?
Whether you can still use your iron sights depends on the height of the red dot sight and the sights themselves. Many red dot sights are designed to co-witness with your iron sights, meaning the iron sights are visible in the lower portion of the red dot’s lens. This is called “lower 1/3 co-witness” or “absolute co-witness.”
Having co-witnessing iron sights is a significant advantage. If your red dot’s battery dies or the optic fails, you can seamlessly transition to using your iron sights. However, if the red dot is too tall, or the iron sights are too low, they may not align properly, or the iron sights might be completely obscured by the optic. Therefore, choosing a red dot and compatible sights that offer co-witnessing is often recommended for backup sighting capability.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right optic can dramatically enhance your Glock 19’s performance, transforming it from a reliable sidearm into a precision instrument. After thoroughly reviewing numerous options, it’s clear that the “best red dots for Glock 19” offer a compelling blend of durability, clarity, and intuitive use. Whether you prioritize a minimalist design for concealed carry, robust construction for demanding environments, or advanced features for rapid target acquisition, the market provides exceptional choices. Investing in a quality red dot sight is an investment in your accuracy, speed, and overall confidence when handling your firearm.
Ultimately, the ideal red dot for your Glock 19 will depend on your specific needs and shooting style. By considering the factors discussed in this guide – from emitter size and battery life to mounting solutions and reticle options – you can make an informed decision that elevates your shooting experience. Don’t underestimate the impact a well-chosen optic can have on your ability to engage targets quickly and accurately. Equip your Glock 19 with one of the best red dots available and unlock its full potential.