The 5 Handgun Optics That Caught Our Eye in 2017

Sig Sauer Romeo1 handgun optics — The ROMEO1 Miniature Reflex Sight is the ideal sighting solution for the modern semi-automatic pistol. You can engage rapidly under a wide range of lighting conditions, thanks to a three-MOA dot with multiple intensity levels that remember your last used settings. Motion Activated Illumination (MOTAC) powers up when it senses motion and powers down when it doesn’t, providing optimum operational safety and enhanced battery life. Speaking of batteries, replacements are only as far away as the nearest convenience store, and the readily-available CR1632 battery is top-loading allowing for quick replacement without having to remove the sight from the firearm. The strong and lightweight CNC Magnesium housing is IPX-7-rated for complete immersion up to one meter, ensuring a lifetime of reliable service. Available with a universal mount with rear sight dovetail adapters for the most popular handguns on the market or with an M1913 Picatinny or KeyMod Rail interface for use with today’s MSR platforms. Starting at $408.

Trijicon RMR Type 2 handgun optics reup — The Trijicon RMR (Ruggedized Miniature Reflex) is one of the most rugged miniature red dot sights available, built to mil-spec standards from 7075-T6 aluminum with a patented shape that absorbs impacts and diverts stresses away from the lens. Available in LED, adjustable LED, or dual-illuminated versions utilizing ambient light and requiring no battery, with dot sizes ranging from one to 13 MOA you are sure to find one that fits your needs. The new RMR Type 2 has redesigned and upgraded electronics which have been proven, through extensive testing, to function properly even with the extreme forces present on a pistol’s slide. Button lock out mode and battery-saving features are present in the new RMR Type 2, which makes this optic ideal for concealed carry and law enforcement use. Suggested pricing begins at $577 and goes up from there.

Burris FastFire 3 handgun optics — The Burris FastFire 3 provides fast target acquisition with parallax-free 1X magnification allowing for both-eyes-open shooting, enhancing awareness and target acquisition. High-grade optical glass provides excellent brightness and clarity, while Burris’ proprietary Hi-Lume multi-coating provides low-light performance and glare elimination. The three- or eight-MOA dot automatically adjusts to match the ambient light conditions or can be set to one of three manual intensities, so you can pling steel from dawn to dusk and beyond. The waterproof, compact and lightweight design won’t affect firearm balance or handling, mounting to almost anything using Burris mounting systems. The shockproof design stands up to years of punishing recoil, but if it should ever fail it is covered by the Burris Forever Warranty. The FastFire 3 is priced from $287 to $299.

Leupold DeltaPoint Pro handgun optics — If you’re looking for an optic that can keep up with you on the 3-Gun course you should take a look at the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro. An aspheric lens generates a wide field-of-view with some of the best image quality ever seen in a reflex sight, so you can keep an eye on the course—or the bad guys. The lightweight aluminum housing is shrouded by spring steel for the ultimate in ruggedness, so EDC is no problem. Leupold’s patented Motion Sensor Technology detects any movement of the sight and activates it, automatically adjusting the illumination current environmental conditions. The tool-less, spring-actuated compartment makes battery changes quick and easy while being impervious to water at a depth of 33 feet. Covered by the Leupold Golden Ring Warranty, the DeltaPoint Pro carries a suggested retail price of $520.

Bushnell First Strike handgun optics — Bushnell has built a reputation by offering quality products at realistic prices. The First Strike is no exception. This RDS is fully water- and shock-proof so it is ready for the range or the field. Multi-coated optics provide for excellent light transmission, and the self-regulating five-MOA dot automatically adjusts to match the prevailing conditions. An integrated mount makes installation a breeze on any Picatinny or Weaver rail-equipped pistol. The CR2032 battery means you won’t have to hunt for a replacement when the time comes. The First Strike retails for around $100.

Handgun optics burst onto the scene in the 80s. While many were excited about new aiming tools for their favorite handguns, they left a lot to be desired.

The early units were large and often ungainly, plagued by battery technology that was inefficient at best.

Luckily for us, advancements in red dot sights moved along at the pace of the information age. Those early models were rapidly eclipsed by advancements in the battery, glass, and head’s up display realms. And, like your computer and paycheck, they seem to be getting smaller with each passing day.

Today, RDS have gone beyond the world of competition and are finding their way into concealed carry scenarios.

In the gallery above are a few handgun optics that caught our eye in the past year. We think you should give them some serious consideration for your race or EDC rig.