The Best AR Pistol Optics in 2023
In this guide, I’m going to show you the Best AR Pistol Optics. I’ve tested many AR-15 pistols including the 5”, 7.5”, and 10-11.5” models.
I’ve personally hand-tested lots of AR pistol Optics to finalize the best for you like sig pistol optic, holographic pistol optic, and others.
If I’m going to count all the sights which I used: iron sights, red dots, and even LPVOs. When choosing the best optic for an AR, several criteria can be considered.
If you are looking for the Best Red Dot Sights and Best Pistol Red Dot Sights.
Let’s Start!
Here are some key factors to consider:
Intended Use: Determine the specific purpose of your AR, such as close-quarters shooting, competition shooting, hunting, or long-range precision shooting. Different optics excel in different scenarios.
Magnification Range: Consider the desired magnification range based on your shooting needs. Red dot sights offer no magnification, while variable magnification scopes offer adjustable levels of zoom.
Reticle Type: Choose a reticle that suits your shooting style and preferences. Options include red dot, holographic, illuminated duplex, mil-dot, BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation), and more.
Durability: Opt for optics that are built to withstand the recoil, shock, and harsh environmental conditions typically encountered with AR rifles. Look for rugged construction, shockproof features, waterproofing, and fog-proofing.
Size and Weight: Consider the size and weight of the optic, as it can impact the balance and maneuverability of your AR. Strike a balance between durability and weight to ensure ease of use and comfort.
Mounting Options: Verify compatibility with standard mounting systems such as Picatinny or Weaver rails, ensuring a secure and reliable attachment to your AR.
Battery Life: If considering electronic sights, check the battery life and consider the type and availability of batteries required for the optic.
Price: Determine your budget and look for optics that offer the best combination of features and quality within your price range.
Brand Reputation and Warranty: Consider reputable brands with a track record of producing high-quality optics. Look for warranties that provide coverage against manufacturing defects or malfunctions.
Ultimately, the best optic for your AR will depend on your specific needs, shooting preferences, and budget. Consider these criteria to narrow down your options and find the optic that best suits your requirements. It’s also recommended to read reviews, seek recommendations, and if possible, try out different optics before making a final decision.
Out of the 15 optics I’ve tested, I believe the Aimpoint PRO fits these criterias and is the best AR 15 pistol optic on the market.
| Best AR-15 Pistol Optic | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|
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Best Red Dot for AR Pistol |
Not avaliable |
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Best Optic for the Money |
$115 |
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Best Compact AR Pistol Optic |
$499 |
|
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Best Budget Red Dot Sight |
$50 |
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The Best AR Pistol Optics
Aimpoint PRO Red Dot Reflex Sight
The Aimpoint PRO (Patrol Rifle Optic) is a red dot reflex sight designed for professional use, including law enforcement, military, and civilian applications. Here are some key features and benefits of the Aimpoint PRO:
1. Optics and Reticle: The PRO features a 2 MOA red dot reticle, which provides a precise aiming point while allowing for quick target acquisition. The single red dot is highly visible and allows for accurate shooting at various distances.
2. Battery Life: One of the standout features of the Aimpoint PRO is its impressive battery life. It operates on a single DL1/3N battery, which can last up to 30,000 hours (over 3 years) of continuous use at a medium brightness setting. This means you can keep the sight powered on for extended periods without worrying about changing batteries frequently.
3. Durability: Aimpoint is renowned for its rugged and durable optics, and the PRO is no exception. It is built to withstand the rigors of real-world use, including recoil, shock, and extreme weather conditions. The sight is nitrogen-filled, ensuring it is fogproof and waterproof, making it suitable for use in various environments.
4. Mounting Options: The Aimpoint PRO comes with a QRP2 mount that is compatible with standard Picatinny rails. The mount provides a secure attachment and allows for easy installation and removal of the sight without compromising zero.
5. Always-On Functionality: The PRO features an “always-on” function, meaning the sight remains powered on continuously. This eliminates the need to turn it on and off, ensuring that it is ready for use at a moment’s notice. The sight instantly activates when movement is detected and automatically shuts off after a period of inactivity.
6. Controls and Adjustments: The sight has easy-to-use controls for adjusting brightness settings. The rotary knob offers six daylight settings and four night vision settings, allowing you to select the appropriate level of brightness for different lighting conditions.
7. Co-witness Capability: The Aimpoint PRO is designed to co-witness with standard AR-15 iron sights, providing a consistent sight picture and the ability to use both the red dot and iron sights for aiming.
8. Warranty and Support: Aimpoint offers a limited warranty on their products, providing peace of mind and ensuring support in case of any manufacturing defects or issues.
Overall, the Aimpoint PRO is a reliable, rugged, and user-friendly red dot reflex sight. Its long battery life, durability, and ease of use make it a popular choice among professionals and enthusiasts alike. Whether for tactical use, hunting, or sport shooting, the Aimpoint PRO provides a clear and precise aiming solution for your firearm.
Aimpoint PRO Red Dot Reflex Sight with QRP2 Mount and Spacer – 2 MOA – 12841
About this item
· Absolute co-witness with iron sights (with the supplied spacer installed)
· Features 2 MOA red dot for accurate target engagement
· Includes front and rear plastic flip cap lens covers
· Features 10 brightness settings including one extra bright for use in bright sunlight
· Up to 30,000 hours (over 3 years) of constant operation from 1 DL1/3N battery
sig pistol optic
The SIG SAUER ROMEO 5 is a compact red dot sight designed for a wide range of shooting applications, including tactical, hunting, and sport shooting. Here are some key features and benefits of the SIG SAUER ROMEO 5:
Optics and Reticle: The ROMEO 5 features a 2 MOA red dot reticle, which provides a precise aiming point while allowing for rapid target acquisition. The red dot is highly visible and offers unlimited eye relief, ensuring quick and accurate shooting.
Motion Activated Illumination: The ROMEO 5 comes with a motion-activated feature that turns on the sight when it detects motion and automatically shuts off after a period of inactivity. This helps preserve battery life and ensures the sight is always ready for use.
Battery Life: The sight operates on a single CR2032 battery and offers an impressive battery life of up to 40,000+ hours on a medium brightness setting. This long battery life allows for extended use without worrying about frequent battery changes.
Durability: The ROMEO 5 is built to withstand the rigors of real-world use. It is impact-resistant and fogproof, thanks to its rugged aluminum housing and IPX-7 waterproof rating. This makes it suitable for use in various weather conditions.
Mounting Options: The sight comes with a Picatinny mount for easy and secure attachment to a wide range of firearms, including AR-15 rifles. It ensures a stable and repeatable zero, allowing for quick installation and removal without losing sight alignment.
Controls and Adjustments: The ROMEO 5 features intuitive controls for brightness adjustment. It offers ten illumination settings, including eight daylight settings and two night vision settings, allowing you to match the brightness level to the ambient lighting conditions.
Co-witness Capability: The ROMEO 5 is designed to co-witness with standard AR-15 iron sights, providing a consistent sight picture and the ability to use both the red dot and iron sights for aiming.
Motion Activated Reticle Activation (MOTAC): The MOTAC feature helps extend battery life by automatically powering up the reticle when motion is detected and powering it down when the sight is not in use.
Warranty and Support: SIG SAUER provides a limited lifetime warranty on their optics, offering assurance and support in case of any manufacturing defects or issues.
Overall, the SIG SAUER ROMEO 5 is a reliable and compact red dot sight that offers a clear reticle, long battery life, and durability. Its motion-activated illumination and co-witness capability make it a versatile choice for various shooting applications. Whether for tactical operations or recreational shooting, the ROMEO 5 provides a fast and accurate aiming solution for your firearm.
Sig Sauer SOR52001 Romeo5 1x20mm Compact 2 Moa Red Dot Sight, Black
About this item
· 100% Other Fibers
· Made in the USA or Imported
· 2 MOA Red-Dot provides 10 illumination settings (8 daylight plus 2 NV) for visibility in all light conditions
· MOTAC (Motion Activated Illumination) powers up when it senses motion and powers down when it does not. Provides for optimum operational safety and enhanced 40,000+ hour battery life
Trijicon RMR Type 2 3.25 MOA
The Trijicon RMR Type 2 is an upgraded version of the popular RMR series, known for its durability and performance. Here’s a review of the Trijicon RMR Type 2 with a 3.25 MOA red dot:
Enhanced Durability: The RMR Type 2 features improved durability compared to its predecessor. It is built to withstand the rigors of harsh environments and is shock-resistant, waterproof, and fogproof. The sight is constructed from rugged materials and designed to endure the demands of military and law enforcement use.
Optics and Reticle: The RMR Type 2 utilizes a 3.25 MOA red dot reticle, providing a precise aiming point for quick target acquisition. The red dot is clear and sharp, allowing for accurate shots even in challenging lighting conditions.
Battery Life: The RMR Type 2 is powered by a CR2032 battery and offers a long battery life, allowing for extended use without frequent battery changes. The battery life can last up to two years of continuous use at the mid-level brightness setting, ensuring reliability in the field.
Easy Windage and Elevation Adjustments: The RMR Type 2 features easy-to-use windage and elevation adjustment dials, allowing for precise zeroing of the sight. The adjustments are tactile and audible, making it easy to fine-tune the sight alignment to your specific shooting needs.
Multiple Mounting Options: The RMR Type 2 is compatible with a wide range of firearms and mounting systems. It offers versatility in terms of installation, allowing for easy attachment to pistols, rifles, and shotguns. The sight can be mounted directly to the firearm or using various adapter plates and mounting solutions.
Automatic and Manual Brightness Settings: The RMR Type 2 features an automatic brightness mode that adjusts the dot intensity based on ambient lighting conditions. It also offers eight manual brightness settings, giving you full control over the dot brightness to suit different shooting environments.
True-Color Multi-Coated Lens: The lens of the RMR Type 2 is multi-coated to enhance light transmission, clarity, and color accuracy. The true-color coating ensures that you see a true representation of the target, improving target acquisition and aiming precision.
Compatible with Night Vision Devices: The RMR Type 2 is compatible with night vision devices, making it suitable for low-light or nighttime operations. The sight can be easily used in conjunction with night vision optics without losing its functionality or reticle visibility.
Warranty and Support: Trijicon provides a limited lifetime warranty for the RMR Type 2, demonstrating their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Their customer support is known for being responsive and helpful, ensuring that any potential issues are resolved promptly.
Overall, the Trijicon RMR Type 2 with a 3.25 MOA red dot is a reliable and rugged optic suitable for a wide range of firearms and shooting applications. Whether for tactical operations, competitive shooting, or personal defense, the RMR Type 2 delivers reliable performance and improved aiming capabilities.
Trijicon RMR Type 2 3.25 MOA Adjustable LED Red Dot Sight
About this item
· · 3.25 MOA ADJUSTABLE LED RMR: Features an automatic brightness mode and easy push buttons for eight adjustable brightness settings including 2 nv and 1 Super bright
· DEPENDABLE ELECTRONIC DESIGN: Ruggedized Battery contacts and electronics ensure performance and survivability in harsh environments
· UNIQUE PATENTED HOUSING SHAPE: Military-grade aluminum alloy forged housing shape diverts force of impact away from the lens, greatly increasing its durability
· BATTERY CONSERVATION MODE: Automatically adjusts aiming dot to ambient lighting conditions after 16.5 hours. Battery Life- Over 4 years of continuous use (When used at 70ºF (21ºC))at setting 4 of 8. Extreme temperatures (high or low) will affect lithium battery performance
Trijicon RMR Type 2 3.25 MOA
The Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 is a popular and affordable red dot sight known for its reliability and performance. Here’s a review of the Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight:
Compact and Lightweight: The TRS-25 is a compact and lightweight red dot sight, making it suitable for a variety of firearms, including rifles, shotguns, and pistols. Its small size and low profile allow for easy installation and minimal impact on the firearm’s overall weight and balance.
Optics and Reticle: The TRS-25 features a 1x25mm multi-coated objective lens that provides a clear and bright sight picture. The 3 MOA red dot reticle offers quick and precise target acquisition, allowing for fast and accurate shots.
Durable Construction: The TRS-25 is built to withstand harsh conditions. It is shockproof, fog proof, and waterproof, ensuring its reliability in various weather and environmental conditions. The sight is also nitrogen purged to prevent internal fogging and maintain a clear view.
Easy and Precise Adjustments: The TRS-25 has audible click adjustments for windage and elevation, allowing for easy zeroing and precise sight alignment. The adjustment knobs are conveniently located and provide tactile feedback, making it simple to make on-the-fly adjustments.
Long Battery Life: The TRS-25 utilizes a single CR2032 battery and offers a long battery life, providing extended usage without frequent battery changes. The battery can last for thousands of hours, ensuring reliability during extended shooting sessions or outings.
Unlimited Eye Relief and Parallax-Free: The TRS-25 provides unlimited eye relief, allowing for comfortable shooting and quick target acquisition. It is also parallax-free, meaning the red dot stays on target regardless of the shooter’s eye position.
Easy Mounting: The TRS-25 comes with a standard mount that is compatible with Picatinny and Weaver rails, making it easy to mount on a variety of firearms. The mount provides a secure and stable attachment, ensuring the sight stays in place during shooting.
Affordable Price: One of the key advantages of the TRS-25 is its affordability. It offers a reliable and functional red dot sight at a budget-friendly price point, making it accessible to a wide range of shooters.
Warranty and Support: Bushnell provides a limited lifetime warranty for the TRS-25, demonstrating their confidence in the sight’s quality and performance. Their customer support is known for being responsive and helpful, ensuring that any issues or concerns are addressed promptly.
Overall, the Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight is a reliable and affordable option for shooters looking to enhance their aiming capabilities. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced shooter, the TRS-25 offers a reliable red dot sight solution without breaking the bank.
Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope, 1x20mm, Black
About this item
· Matte black featuring a 3 MOA Dot reticle with 11 brightness settings; Mounts easily on most picatinny rails and is compatible with pistols, shotguns, rifles and muzzleloaders.Adjustment Range : 70+ MOA
· Waterproof construction: O ring sealed optics stay dry inside, even when totally immersed in water. Parallax – 50