5 Best Red Dots for Glock 43

Finding the best red dots for Glock 43 enhances precision, speed, and overall shooting performance. A well-chosen optic provides faster target acquisition, allowing for quick and accurate follow-up shots. Compact and lightweight designs ensure the sight integrates seamlessly with the pistol without adding unnecessary bulk.

Whether for concealed carry, home defense, or range training, a red dot improves visibility and confidence in high-pressure situations. With advancements in optic technology, modern red dots offer durability, long battery life, and features tailored for concealed carry firearms.

When selecting a red dot for your Glock 43, several factors come into play, including lens clarity, reticle size, battery efficiency, and mounting compatibility. Durability is essential, as the optic must withstand recoil and environmental conditions. Water and shock resistance, along with high-quality materials, contribute to the overall reliability of the sight.

Adjustable brightness settings ensure optimal visibility in various lighting conditions, while features like motion activation and automatic brightness adjustment enhance usability. Investing in a high-quality red dot maximizes the potential of your Glock 43, making target acquisition quicker and more intuitive.

About the Glock 43

The Glock 43 is a compact, single-stack 9mm pistol designed for concealed carry. It offers a slim profile that makes it comfortable for everyday carry while maintaining Glock’s reputation for reliability and durability.

The grip features an ergonomic beaver tail design, allowing for a secure and high grip position, improving control and reducing recoil. Textured surfaces ensure a firm hold, even in stressful situations or adverse conditions.

Engineered with the same high standards as larger Glock models, the G43 delivers consistent performance under rigorous conditions. It comes with a six-round magazine, easily removable with the large magazine catch for quick reloads.

Despite its small size, the Glock 43 maintains exceptional accuracy, making it an ideal choice for self-defense. Its compatibility with aftermarket accessories, including red dot sights, further enhances its effectiveness.

5 Best Red Dots for Glock 43

1) Trijicon RMRcc 1×13 mm Red Dot Sight

The Trijicon RMRcc Adjustable 1×13 mm 6.5 MOA Red Dot Sight is a top-tier optic for those seeking a reliable and compact red dot for their Glock 43 or other concealed carry pistols. Designed specifically for concealed carry applications, the RMRcc boasts a sleek, low-profile design that reduces snagging while ensuring rapid target acquisition in high-stress scenarios.

Crafted from rugged 7075 aluminum, the Trijicon RMRcc is built to withstand tough conditions. It is shockproof, waterproof up to 66 feet, and features upgraded electronics, ensuring durability in extreme environments. The True-Color, multi-coated lens provides excellent clarity and minimal color distortion, allowing for an accurate sight picture in any lighting condition.

One of the standout features of the RMRcc 6.5 MOA model is its large illuminated reticle, making it ideal for quick target acquisition and precision shooting. The adjustable brightness settings (including night vision compatibility) provide flexibility for various lighting conditions, from bright daylight to low-light scenarios. Additionally, tool-less windage and elevation adjustments allow for quick zeroing on the go, making this optic extremely user-friendly.

The four-year battery life on a CR2032 battery ensures long-term reliability, while the button lock-out and lock-in modes provide added convenience for both self-defense and range shooting. If you’re looking for a durable, ultra-reliable red dot sight for your Glock 43 that won’t add unnecessary bulk, the Trijicon RMRcc is a top contender.

Pros

• Slim, snag-free design – Perfect for concealed carry.
• Highly durable – Built from 7075 aluminum, shockproof, and waterproof up to 66 feet.
• Crisp 6.5 MOA reticle – Excellent for fast target acquisition.
• Adjustable brightness settings – Includes night vision compatibility.
• True-Color, multi-coated lens – Minimal color distortion for a clear sight picture.
• Four-year battery life – Reliable performance with a CR2032 battery.
• Easy windage/elevation adjustments – No special tools required.
• Secure lock-out and lock-in modes – Customizable brightness control.

Cons

• Higher price point

2) Holosun HS507K Compact Pistol Red Dot Sight

The Holosun HS507K Compact Pistol Red Dot Sight is an exceptional optic for Glock 43 owners looking for a lightweight, durable, and highly efficient sight designed specifically for concealed carry. With a compact RMSc footprint, this red dot sight integrates seamlessly with slim-profile pistols, making it a top choice for those seeking fast target acquisition without adding unnecessary bulk.

Built from rugged 7075-T6 aluminum with a hard coat anodized finish, the HS507K is both impact-resistant and IP67-rated for water and dust protection. The standout feature of this optic is its ACSS Vulcan Dot Reticle, which utilizes a 3 MOA center dot along with a 230 MOA reference circle to help shooters quickly recover their aim when off-target. This makes it an excellent choice for shooters who are new to red dots or those looking for faster sight alignment under stress.

Equipped with Holosun’s Multi-Reticle System, the HS507K allows users to switch between a simple 3 MOA dot or a combination of a dot and a circle for more precise aiming. The Shake Awake technology ensures the sight remains ready when needed by automatically turning on with movement, while the built-in Lock Mode prevents accidental brightness adjustments. With 12 brightness settings, including two night vision-compatible modes, this sight is adaptable to various lighting conditions, from bright daylight to total darkness.

Battery life is another highlight, offering up to 50,000 hours on a single CR1632 battery, significantly reducing maintenance concerns. The intuitive push-button controls make it easy to adjust settings on the fly, ensuring a user-friendly experience. Whether for self-defense or competitive shooting, the Holosun HS507K is a top-tier option for Glock 43 users seeking reliability and cutting-edge technology in a compact package.

Pros

• Ultra-compact and lightweight – Perfect for concealed carry.
• ACSS Vulcan Reticle – Helps with rapid target acquisition and alignment.
• Shake Awake technology – Saves battery and ensures instant readiness.
• Multi-Reticle System – Switch between dot-only or dot + circle.
• Long battery life – Up to 50,000 hours on a single CR1632 battery.
• IP67-rated – Waterproof and dustproof for durability.
• 12 brightness settings – Includes two night vision-compatible modes.
• Hard coat anodized 7075-T6 aluminum – Rugged and impact-resistant.

Cons

• No solar backup

3) Holosun EPS Carry Red Dot Sight

The Holosun EPS Carry Red Dot Sight is a top-tier optic for Glock 43 owners who want an enclosed emitter sight designed for durability, precision, and ease of use. Built from rugged 7075-T6 aluminum, this red dot sight offers a robust yet lightweight construction, making it ideal for concealed carry applications. With an IPX8 waterproof rating, the EPS Carry can handle harsh weather conditions and heavy use without compromising performance.

One of the standout features of this sight is its fully enclosed emitter, which prevents dust, water, and debris from obstructing the reticle. Unlike open-emitter red dots, this enclosed design ensures reliable function in all environments, making it particularly useful for those who carry daily or rely on their firearm for self-defense. The optic’s low-deck height is another major advantage, allowing users to co-witness with standard iron sights without needing suppressor-height sights.

The 6 MOA red dot provides a highly visible aiming point, making target acquisition quick and efficient, especially in high-stress situations. With eight brightness settings, including night vision compatibility, the EPS Carry adapts to various lighting conditions with ease. The Shake Awake technology conserves battery life by automatically powering down the sight when not in use and instantly activating when movement is detected. The optic retains its last brightness setting upon waking, eliminating the need for manual adjustments.

Battery life is another strong suit of the EPS Carry, offering up to 50,000 hours on a single CR1620 battery. The aspherical glass lens delivers zero distortion, ensuring a crisp and clear sight picture. With its K-series footprint, this sight is compatible with a wide range of compact pistols, including the Glock 43, without requiring additional mounting plates.

Pros

• Enclosed emitter design – Prevents debris, dust, and moisture from affecting the reticle.
• Low-profile deck – Works with standard-height iron sights.
• 6 MOA red dot – Ideal for quick target acquisition.
• Shake Awake technology – Saves battery and ensures instant activation.
• 50,000-hour battery life – Long-lasting CR1620 battery.
• IPX8 waterproof rating – Fully submersible for reliability in any weather.
• Zero-distortion aspherical glass lens – Provides a clear and crisp sight picture.
• RMS footprint – Compatible with Glock 43 and other compact pistols.

Cons

• Fewer brightness settings than other Holosun red dots.

4) Shield Sights Reflex Mini Sight Compact (RMSc)

The Shield Sights Reflex Mini Sight Compact (RMSc) is an excellent red dot option for Glock 43 owners looking for a slim, lightweight, and durable optic designed specifically for concealed carry. As a refined version of the original RMS, it is tailored for single-stack pistols like the Glock 43, Smith & Wesson Shield, and 1911 models. Its compact design keeps the profile low, ensuring minimal bulk while enhancing accuracy and target acquisition.

A standout feature of the RMSc is its impact-resistant polymer lens, which can endure significantly more shock than traditional glass optics. This makes it well-suited for everyday carry, where durability is crucial. Unlike many red dots that use a red reflective coating, the RMSc avoids this feature, reducing glare and ensuring a minimal visual signature. The automatic brightness adjustment is another key advantage, allowing the LED dot to adapt to changing lighting conditions without manual input.

With an 8 MOA dot, the RMSc provides rapid target acquisition, which is particularly useful for defensive shooting. The dot remains highly visible across various lighting environments, automatically adjusting to remain effective in bright daylight or low-light situations. Its aluminum housing, made from aerospace-grade materials with a matte black anodized finish, ensures durability while keeping the weight down to just 0.61 ounces, making it one of the lightest options available.

Battery life is another strong point, offering between two and three years of use under normal conditions. When stored in dark environments, it can last even longer. However, the battery placement underneath the sight requires the optic to be removed when replacing the power source, which can be inconvenient.

The RMSc is an ideal choice for those prioritizing a lightweight, rugged, and easy-to-use red dot for their Glock 43. While its automatic brightness adjustment and impact-resistant lens make it a solid option, the lack of manual brightness control and the need to remove the sight for battery replacement might be drawbacks for some users.

Pros

• Extremely lightweight, adding virtually no extra weight to the firearm.
• Impact-resistant polymer lens withstands more shock than traditional glass.
• No red reflective coating minimizes glare and maintains a low visual profile.
• Automatic brightness adjustment adapts to different lighting conditions.
• Long battery life of up to three years under typical use.
• Designed specifically for slim-profile, single-stack pistols like the Glock 43.
• Compatible with existing RMS and SMS mounts for easy installation.

Cons

• Battery is positioned underneath the sight, requiring removal for replacement.

5) Sig Sauer ROMEOZero Elite Micro Reflex Sight

The Sig Sauer ROMEOZero Elite Micro Reflex Sight is a premium red dot option for Glock 43 owners seeking a compact yet highly durable optic. Designed to fit the ROMEOZero and Shield RMSc footprint, this sight offers advanced features that enhance accuracy, ease of use, and overall durability. Its carbon-infused polymer housing provides exceptional drop and shock protection while maintaining an ultra-lightweight profile.

One of the standout features of the ROMEOZero Elite is its aspherical glass lens, which eliminates distortion and offers superior clarity compared to many competitors. Unlike polymer-based lenses, this scratch-resistant glass provides a crystal-clear sight picture, ensuring precise target acquisition. The optic is equipped with a circle-dot reticle, which enhances speed and accuracy, making it an excellent choice for defensive and competitive shooting.

Sig Sauer integrates its innovative T.A.P. (Touch-Activated Programming) technology into this model, allowing users to adjust brightness and switch reticle modes with a simple tap on the optic. With eight daylight brightness settings, the sight remains effective in various lighting conditions, from bright outdoor environments to low-light settings. Additionally, the rear surface features anti-reflection grooves and a backup rear sight notch infused with Grade A Swiss SuperLuminova pigment, ensuring visibility even in the dark.

Battery life is impressive, offering up to 20,000 hours of operation on a single CR1632 battery. The ROMEOZero Elite also includes a structurally enhanced steel shroud, adding another layer of protection for rugged use. Designed for compatibility with Glock 43X MOS, Springfield Hellcat OSP, and other micro-compact pistols, this sight is a versatile option for concealed carry enthusiasts.

Pros

• Aspherical glass lens provides a distortion-free, high-clarity sight picture.
• Carbon-infused polymer housing enhances durability while keeping weight low.
• Circle-dot reticle improves target acquisition speed.
• T.A.P. (Touch-Activated Programming) allows quick brightness and reticle adjustments.
• Eight brightness settings ensure adaptability in different lighting conditions.
• Up to 20,000 hours of battery life for long-term reliability.
• Rear sight notch with SuperLuminova pigment enhances low-light visibility.
• Includes a steel shroud for additional impact resistance.

Cons

• None

Factors To Consider When Buying The Best Red Dots for Glock 43

Size and Weight

The Glock 43 is designed for concealed carry, making size and weight crucial factors when choosing a red dot sight. A bulky optic can add unnecessary weight, making the firearm feel unbalanced and harder to carry comfortably throughout the day. A slim, low-profile sight ensures that the pistol remains easy to draw and does not interfere with holstering, particularly inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters. Additionally, a lightweight red dot minimizes added strain on the slide, helping maintain the firearm’s natural point of aim and preventing excessive recoil or slide sluggishness. The ideal red dot should be compact enough to enhance accuracy without compromising the Glock 43’s discreet and ergonomic design.

Lens Quality and Clarity

The quality of the lens directly affects the shooter’s ability to acquire and maintain a clear sight picture. Some red dot sights feature glass lenses, which generally provide superior optical clarity with minimal distortion, while others use polymer lenses that offer increased durability and impact resistance. An anti-reflective or multi-coated lens helps reduce glare, improving visibility in bright daylight or against reflective surfaces. A high-quality lens ensures that the dot remains crisp and well-defined, preventing any ghosting, haziness, or distracting color tints that could affect target acquisition. Shooters should also consider the lens’s resistance to scratches and debris, as a durable lens coating can prolong its lifespan and maintain clear visibility over time.

Dot Size and Reticle Options

The size of the red dot plays a significant role in accuracy and speed, depending on the intended application. Smaller dots, typically 3 to 4 MOA, are better suited for precision shooting as they cover less of the target, allowing for more accurate aiming at longer distances. Larger dots, ranging from 6 to 8 MOA, are ideal for quick target acquisition in self-defense or close-quarters scenarios, as they are easier to see under stress. Some red dots also offer multiple reticle options, such as a standard dot, a circle-dot combination, or crosshair-style reticles, providing versatility for different shooting situations. Having the ability to switch between reticle styles can be advantageous, allowing the shooter to adapt based on lighting conditions, distance, or personal preference.

Durability and Construction

Since pistols generate significant recoil, especially smaller ones like the Glock 43, a red dot sight must be built to withstand constant impact without losing zero. The sight’s housing material plays a crucial role in its durability—options like aerospace-grade aluminum provide a strong, lightweight frame, while reinforced polymer can enhance impact resistance. Some models also include steel protective shrouds or carbon-infused polymer housings, which improve resistance to drops and rough handling. Additionally, waterproof and shockproof construction ensures that the sight can perform reliably in adverse weather conditions or during intense physical activity. Choosing a red dot with a well-built, rugged frame helps ensure long-term performance and reliability, even under heavy use.

Brightness and Visibility Settings

A good red dot sight should offer multiple brightness settings to ensure visibility in various lighting conditions. Low brightness settings are essential for low-light environments or when using night vision, while high brightness settings allow the dot to remain clearly visible in direct sunlight. Some red dots feature automatic brightness adjustment, which detects ambient lighting conditions and adjusts the reticle’s brightness accordingly. This eliminates the need for manual adjustments and ensures the dot remains optimally visible at all times. A sight that offers a wide range of brightness levels provides greater adaptability, allowing shooters to fine-tune the reticle’s intensity for indoor shooting, outdoor use, or high-stress defensive scenarios.

Battery Life and Power Efficiency

Battery life is a critical consideration, particularly for everyday carry and self-defense use, where an optic must always be ready. The best red dot sights offer thousands of hours of runtime, with some lasting up to 20,000 hours (over two years) on a single battery. Features like motion-activated technology or power-saving circuits help extend battery life by turning the sight off when not in use and instantly reactivating it when movement is detected. The location of the battery compartment also matters—top-loading or side-loading designs allow for quick battery changes without removing the sight, while bottom-mounted batteries require removing the optic, which can affect zero. Selecting a red dot with efficient power management ensures consistent performance without frequent maintenance.

Mounting Compatibility

Not all red dot sights fit all pistol slides, making mounting compatibility a key factor. The Glock 43, especially in its MOS (Modular Optic System) variant, requires a sight with the correct footprint to ensure a secure fit. The RMSc footprint is one of the most common mounting standards for micro red dots and ensures broad compatibility with compact handguns. Some sights require adapter plates, which can add height and alter the pistol’s natural point of aim. A properly fitted red dot should sit low enough on the slide to allow for co-witnessing with iron sights, ensuring an alternative aiming method in case of optic failure. Checking for direct compatibility or available mounting plates before purchasing a sight prevents unnecessary modifications and ensures a secure, reliable attachment.

Ease of Use and Adjustability

A red dot sight should be intuitive to use, allowing for quick adjustments without complicated controls. Features such as tactile brightness buttons, easy windage and elevation adjustments, and intuitive reticle selection enhance the user experience. Some models offer touch-activated settings, allowing the shooter to change brightness or reticle options with a simple tap on the optic. Others feature audible or tactile clicks for elevation and windage adjustments, making zeroing the sight easier. A user-friendly design ensures that the sight can be quickly adjusted under stress, providing confidence in high-pressure situations. A red dot that balances simplicity with functionality ensures faster, more precise target acquisition without unnecessary complexity.

Best Red Dots for Glock 43 Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Choosing the best red dot for your Glock 43 enhances speed, accuracy, and confidence in shooting. A well-matched optic improves target acquisition, especially in high-stress situations. Factors like durability, battery life, dot size, and lens clarity determine overall performance. Compact red dots designed for concealed carry ensure a low-profile fit while maintaining a clear sight picture. Proper mounting solutions, whether through an MOS-cut slide or an adapter plate, also influence stability and alignment.

A high-quality red dot should offer a balance between rapid aiming and precision. Automatic brightness adjustment or easy manual controls ensure visibility in different lighting conditions. Rugged construction, shock resistance, and water resistance improve longevity and reliability. A clear, distortion-free lens with anti-reflective coatings prevents glare and ensures a sharp reticle. Battery efficiency is crucial, as a long-lasting power source reduces maintenance and ensures readiness when needed.

Investing in a reliable red dot sight transforms your Glock 43 into a more effective self-defense tool. A properly chosen optic allows for faster follow-up shots and improved shooting accuracy, making it a valuable upgrade. Whether for everyday carry, home defense, or range practice, selecting a red dot with the right features ensures better performance and confidence.

See Also

• 5 Best Red Dots for Glock 43 X MOS
• 5 Best Vortex Scopes for 7mm Rem Mag
• 6 Best Holosun Red Dots for Rifle