Adding a red dot sight is one of the most effective upgrades you can make on the Smith & Wesson FPC (Folding Pistol Carbine). This guide explores the best red dots for Smith & Wesson FPC that are suitable for every modern handgun owner.
Red dot sights dramatically improve target acquisition speed, especially in close to mid-range engagements. For a firearm like the FPC, which thrives in these environments, a red dot can be the difference between quick, accurate follow-up shots and missed opportunities. However, not all red dot sights are created equal. Some are too bulky for the FPC’s compact profile, while others may not handle the recoil or battery life demands of frequent shooting.
About the Smith & Wesson FPC
The Smith & Wesson FPC (Folding Pistol Carbine) is a compact, lightweight, and foldable 9mm carbine designed for portability and versatility. It is built with a 16.25-inch barrel and a folding mechanism that allows the barrel to pivot to the side.
The FPC is easy to store and transport. It uses M&P-style magazines and comes with multiple mag storage options in the buttstock. With a full-length Picatinny rail for optics and accessories, along with a threaded barrel for suppressors or muzzle devices, this handgun is well-suited for both recreational shooting and practical defense scenarios.
Best Red Dots for Smith & Wesson FPC
If you are having a hard time finding the best red dot sight for Smith & Wesson FPC, this comprehensive buying guide explores the top red dot sights that complement the Smith & Wesson FPC in both form and function. Let’s dive right in.
1. Vortex Optics Crossfire Gen II Red Dot Sights
The Crossfire Gen II red dot sight is the best red dot for Smith & Wesson FPC. This no-nonsense sight is suitable for near any application that needs a simple point of aim.
Its 2 MOA red dot reticle strikes a balance between rapid target acquisition and precise shooting, making it suitable for both close-quarters and mid-range engagements. The sight also offers 11 brightness settings, including two that are night vision compatible, allowing for adaptability in various lighting conditions.
With unlimited eye relief and a parallax-free design, users can maintain accuracy regardless of eye position, which is particularly beneficial during dynamic shooting scenarios. Additionally, adjustments for windage and elevation are user-friendly, with 1 MOA per click increments facilitating quick and precise zeroing.
Regarding construction, the sight is constructed from durable aluminum and features a hard-coat anodized finish to withstand scratches. Furthermore, it is designed to be resistant to recoil, water, and fog, thereby enhancing its reliability in diverse environments.
Above all, the Crossfire Gen II offers an impressive battery life up to 50,000 hours of operation on a single CR2032 battery at medium brightness settings.
Pros
- Good value for the price
- Exceptional durability
- Bright and clear optics
- Long 50,000 hours battery life
- Compatible with night vision gear
Cons
- Lacks automatic on/off or motion activation
2. HOLOSUN HE403C-GR 2 MOA Dot Micro Sight
The HOLOSUN HE403C-GR 2 MOA Dot Micro Sight stands out as a versatile and reliable optic for rifle and carbine applications. Its green 2 MOA dot, powered by Holosun’s Super LED technology, offers exceptional visibility and precision, especially in bright conditions.
The sight boasts a remarkable battery life of up to 50,000 hours on a single CR2032 battery. The long battery life is complemented by Solar Failsafe technology that ensures continuous operation using ambient light when the battery is depleted. This feature, along with the Shake Awake function that activates the sight upon detecting motion, ensures the optic is always ready for use.
Moreover, this optic is built to last. It is constructed from durable 6061 T6 aluminum for ultimate durability. Additionally, this red dot sight has an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance to ensure reliable performance in different weather conditions.
The optic also includes both a lower 1/3 co-witness mount and a low-profile mount, catering to various shooting preferences.
Pros
- Dependable performance
- Solid build quality
- Easy to mount and operate
- Adaptable to various shooting preferences
Cons
- The green dot appears less sharp at maximum brightness levels
3. HOLOSUN HS503CU Multi-Reticle Micro Sight
The HOLOSUN HS503CU Multi-Reticle Micro Sight stands out as a versatile and feature-rich optic tailored for rifle and carbine users. Its hallmark Multi-Reticle System (MRS) offers a 2 MOA dot and a 65 MOA circle, allowing shooters to switch between precision aiming and rapid target acquisition.
To help the reticle function optimally, the sight boasts a remarkable battery life of up to 50,000 hours. This is thanks to its efficient LED technology and Shake Awake™ feature, which conserves power by deactivating the LED when not in use and reactivating it upon motion detection. Additionally, the Solar Failsafe™ technology ensures continuous operation by automatically adjusting reticle brightness based on ambient light and providing a backup power source when the battery is depleted.
Another impressive feature is the robust construction. Constructed from durable 6061 aluminum, the HS503CU is both lightweight and robust, with an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance. The optic also includes both a lower 1/3 co-witness mount and a low-profile mount, catering to various shooting preferences.
Pros
- Clear reticle and intuitive controls
- User-convenient side-mounted battery tray
- Exceptional glass clarity
- Extended battery life
- Robust and reliable construction
Cons
- Slight visual anomalies at the edge of the sight picture
4. Swampfox Liberator Mini 1×22 Dot Sight
The Swampfox Liberator Mini 1×22 Dot Sight is a compact, rugged red dot optic designed for speed, simplicity, and reliability.
As one of the best red dots for Smith & Wesson FPC, its build quality impresses with its CNC-machined 6061 aluminum body and hard coat anodized finish, which gives it a durable feel. Thought rugged, the sight is lightweight at just under 4 ounces, making it a perfect addition to AR pistols, shotguns, or even PCCs without throwing off balance.
Furthermore, the 1x22mm lens offers a wide field of view for easy target finding. The multi-coated, anti-reflective glass provides a crisp sight picture in various lighting conditions and the red dot itself is bright and sharp, with 10 illumination settings including two that are night vision compatible.
Functionally, the Liberator Mini delivers exceptional performance for its price point. It uses a 3 MOA dot that strikes a good balance between speed and precision. Additionally, it holds zero reliably even after repeated recoil and rugged use.
To top it all off, the mounting options are versatile, as it comes with both low and absolute co-witness risers, fitting a range of setups.
Pros
- Dependable and robust construction
- Competitive pricing
- Versatile mounting optics
- Compatibility with night vision gear
- Versatile use
Cons
- Limited battery life
5. Holosun HE515GM-GR Micro Sight
Next, we have the Holosun HE515GM-GR Micro Sight. This is a high-performance optic that expertly blends rugged durability with cutting-edge technology for professionals and tactical enthusiasts alike.
The selling point of this pistol sight is the multi-reticle system. Designed with a 2 MOA dot and 65 MOA circle reticle, it offers exceptional versatility and rapid target acquisition. The green reticle is crisp and bright, even in full daylight, and the sight features Holosun’s Multi-Reticle System (MRS), allowing the shooter to switch between dot only, circle only, or both. This adaptability is great for both close-quarters scenarios and longer-range precision shots.
As impressive as the reticle system is so is the build quality. Crafted with a robust titanium housing, the HE515GM-GR is shock-resistant, waterproof (IPX8 rated), and capable of enduring harsh environments without compromising optical clarity or zero retention.
Additional standout features include Shake Awake™ technology, which powers the optic down during periods of inactivity and instantly reactivates with movement, significantly extending battery life. Over and above that, the glass clarity is impressive, with virtually no distortion or color shift.
Pros
- Straightforward mounting thanks to the quick-detach mount
- Premium performance in a compact footprint
- Lightweight and durable construction
- Impressive glass clarity
Cons
- Narrower field of view
6. Primary Arms SLx MD-25 Gen II Microdot
As one of the best red dots for Smith & Wesson FPC, the Primary Arms SLx MD-25 Gen II Microdot stands out as a robust, feature-rich red dot optic that delivers excellent performance for its price point.
The optic impresses with its sturdy construction and thoughtful design. The 25mm objective lens offers a significantly larger field of view than standard microdots, making target acquisition faster and more intuitive. Besides, the rugged 6061 aluminum housing feels solid and capable of withstanding real-world abuse while the IP67 waterproof rating ensures it can perform reliably in harsh environments.
For added convenience, the brightness adjustment knob is tactile and easy to manipulate, even with gloves. It offers 12 brightness settings including two night-vision compatible levels. The optic also uses the proven CR2032 battery, which provides up to 50,000 hours of runtime depending on the setting.
In terms of performance, the MD-25 Gen II maintains a crisp 2 MOA dot that holds zero exceptionally well, even under recoil from higher-caliber platforms. Parallax is minimal, and the clarity of the glass is impressive given its sub-$200 price range. Besides, the inclusion of Primary Arms’ improved mounting system offers greater flexibility and a more secure lock-up with various mount heights to accommodate different rifle setups.
Pros
- Versatile mounting options
- Budget-friendly
- Durable construction
- Compatibility with night vision gear
- Crisp reticle
Cons
- The optic is bulkier than most microdots
7. Aimpoint Micro T-2 Red Dot Reflex Sight
The Aimpoint Micro T-2 Red Dot Reflex Sight is our last red dot sight recommendation for Smith & Wesson FPC.
Designed with military-grade durability, the T-2 features a hard-anodized aluminum housing that protects its internals from the harshest environments, including extreme temperatures, moisture, and recoil. Furthermore, the lenses have been improved over its predecessor, offering increased light transmission and clarity with minimal parallax.
Regarding reticle, this red dot sight features a crisp 2 MOA red dot with 12 brightness settings for seamless adaptation in both low-light and bright daylight conditions. Besides, the extended battery life up to five years of constant-on use on a single CR2032 battery enhances its field readiness and low-maintenance appeal.
In practical use, the Micro T-2 excels in speed and precision. The red dot enables quick target acquisition with both eyes open, enhancing situational awareness and reaction times, especially in close-quarters scenarios. More importantly, the compact and lightweight design makes it an ideal match for a wide range of firearms.
Above all, its return-to-zero capability when detached and reattached is exceptionally consistent, making it a favorite among users who regularly switch optics or platforms.
Pros
- Rugged durability
- Crisp 2 MOA red dot reticle
- Versatile for shooters, law enforcement, and military professionals
- Compact, lightweight, and easy to mount
Cons
- No mount included
Criteria for Choosing the Best Red Dots for Smith & Wesson FPC
When choosing the best red dot sight for the Smith & Wesson FPC (Folding Pistol Carbine), consider the following factors to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
Mounting System Compatibility
First and foremost is compatibility with the mounting system. The FPC typically features a Picatinny rail, so it’s important to choose a red dot that securely fits this platform without requiring additional adapters or modifications. A sight that is low-profile and compact can complement the folding design of the FPC, maintaining its portability and ease of storage.
Durability and Build Quality
Durability and build quality are also essential. Since the FPC is often used for personal defense, recreational shooting, or even tactical applications, the red dot must be able to withstand recoil and rough handling. Look for sights constructed from high-grade materials such as aircraft-grade aluminum. Furthermore, the best red dots for Smith & Wesson FPC should be waterproof, shockproof, and fog-resistant. These features are handy as they contribute to long-term reliability in varying environmental conditions.
Battery Life
Another important consideration is the battery life and power management. Red dots with extended battery life, ideally measured in thousands of hours, reduce the hassle of frequent replacements. Models with auto-shutoff or motion-activation features help preserve battery life while ensuring the sight is ready when needed.
Reticle Size
The size and clarity of the reticle also play a significant role. A 2 to 4 MOA dot is generally a good balance for fast target acquisition and precision shooting at varying distances.
Brightness Settings
The best red dots for Smith & Wesson FPC feature adjustable brightness settings to accommodate different lighting conditions. A tip is to get a model with more than 8 adjustable brightness settings. Some red dots offer night vision compatibility for enhanced versatility in typical nighttime environments.
Size and Weight
The size and weight of red dot sights varies from one model to the other. Choose a compact red dot sight that won’t get in your way of shooting. Furthermore, the best red dots for Smith & Wesson FPC are built light to ensure that they don’t add any unnecessary weight to the firearm.
Ease of Use and Adjustability
Lastly, ease of use and adjustability should not be overlooked. Windage and elevation adjustments should be simple and precise. Furthermore, a red dot with a clear, crisp lens and minimal parallax enhances shooting accuracy and speed.
Best Red Dots for Smith & Wesson FPC FAQs
- Do I need a specific mount for these red dot sights on the M&P FPC?
No. Most red dot optics come with standard Picatinny mounts, which are compatible with the M&P FPC’s top rail. However, always verify the mounting system of the optic to ensure compatibility.
- Can I co-witness these red dot sights with the iron sights on my M&P FPC?
Yes. Most red dot sights are designed to allow co-witnessing with iron sights, providing a backup aiming solution.
- Q: Are these red dot sights suitable for both indoor and outdoor shooting?
Absolutely. These optics are versatile and designed to perform well in various lighting conditions. With adjustable brightness settings, they are suitable for both indoor ranges and outdoor environments.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, this buying guide has been insightful and of great help to you. Keep in mind that what you purpose to use the red dot sight for will determine which model you get. Take that into consideration and use this buying guide to select a red dot sight that enhances the performance of your Smith & Wesson FPC, aligning with your specific shooting needs and preferences.