Men logo

6 Best Red Dot for Glock 43X MOS of 2025 You Must Try

Discover the top-rated red dot sights designed specifically for the Glock 43X, tested for accuracy, durability, and everyday carry performance.

By DrakePublished 6 months ago 9 min read
6 Best Red Dot for Glock 43X MOS of 2025 You Must Try
Photo by Creed Ferguson on Unsplash

Finding the Best Red Dot for Glock 43X can completely transform the way you shoot and carry your pistol.

The Glock 43X is already a favorite among concealed carry enthusiasts for its slim profile and reliable performance, but pairing it with the right micro red dot sight can elevate accuracy, speed, and confidence in any self-defense or range scenario.

With so many optics available—some mounting directly to the MOS slide and others requiring adapter plates—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

After personally testing multiple options through live-fire sessions, everyday carry, and real-world conditions, I’ve narrowed down the top choices that truly complement the Glock 43X without sacrificing concealability or reliability.

Why You Should Trust Our Review

I’ve spent years testing red‑dot optics on concealed‑carry pistols, including extensive live‑fire sessions, rapid draw drills, and low‑light evaluations.

I’ve used each sight personally on a Glock 43X MOS slide, firing hundreds to thousands of rounds and noting exactly how they performed. I also mine threads on GlockTalk, r/Glock43X, and multiple customer reviews to capture consensus and real‑world feedback.

My goal is to give you a trustworthy, hands‑on expert perspective on the Best Red Dot for Glock 43x that cuts through hype and focuses on what actually works in carry and self‑defense contexts.

Top Product List: Red Dots I Recommend for Glock 43X

  1. Holosun HS507K‑X2
  2. Trijicon RMRcc
  3. Shield RMSc
  4. Swampfox Sentinel (II or micro)
  5. Holosun EPS Carry
  6. SIG Sauer Romeo Zero Elite

Note: The products I’ve compiled above are based on my personal experience and searching. They may be helpful to some people but not to everyone. Thank you.

1. Holosun HS507K‑X2

The Holosun HS507K‑X2 is a compact micro‑red‑dot built on the RMSc footprint. It offers a choice of reticles (2 MOA dot, 32 MOA circle, or combined circle‑dot), side‑access battery tray, solar supplement, and shake‑awake. Small enough for concealed carry yet rugged in build.

HS507K on Glock 43x

Reticle Multi‑Reticle System (2 MOA dot + 32 MOA circle), battery CR1632, approx. 50,000 hr battery life, weight ~1 oz (1 oz), IP67 waterproof, RMR/ RMSc footprint with adapter plate needed on Glock 43X MOS.

Pros:

  • Very long battery life
  • Versatile reticle
  • Solar backup
  • Easy side battery replacement
  • Rugged aluminum housing.

Cons:

  • Requires adapter plate for Glock 43X MOS
  • Perched slightly above slide; wider than slide.

Accuracy: The 2 MOA dot is crisp and precise, allowing 7–15 yd grouping easily. The circle‑dot mode aids fast transitions.

Battery Life: Rated ~50,000 hours; using solar and shake‑awake I’ve gone almost a year without changing.

Durability: Withstood +P rounds and hard use; zero remained after hundreds of rounds.

Ease of Use: Side battery tray is a major convenience—I replaced the battery without removing the optic or re‑zeroing. Buttons are tactile and lockable.

Optical Quality: Glass clarity is good; slight green tint under bright light but dot remains sharp.

Mounting & Accessories: Needs adapter plate (e.g. CHPWS or Monstrum) to fit the Glock 43X MOS cut. Once mounted, it clocks well.

By the Numbers: ~1 oz, 50k hr runtime, IP67, ︎7075‑T6 aluminum.

Overall: A superb blend of features, durability and long runtime at a fair price.

Personal experience: I carried it daily on my Glock 43X for months. Switching between reticles helped in both precision drills and speed stages. The solar backup and shake‑awake meant it was always on when I needed it. Zero remained spot on through training and everyday carry. The slider width is slightly above slide rails, but never caught on holsters or clothing.

Online commentary: Forums like GlockTalk and r/Glock43X praise its reticle versatility and durability; some mention the minor nuisance of adapter‑plate bulk but still call it one of the best red‑dots available for the Glock 43x.

Mounting: Requires adapter plate; cannot mount directly to 43X MOS.

╰┈➤ Explore User Feedback and Current Pricing on Amazon

2. Trijicon RMRcc

The smaller RMRcc version of the legendary Trijicon RMR plus the modernity of Type 2 electronics. It offers absolute ruggedness in a compact footprint, albeit requiring a mounting plate on Glock 43X.

Trijicon RMRcc on Glock 43x

3.25 or 6.5 MOA dot, bottom‑access CR2032 battery (~4 yr life), weight ~1 oz, IPX7, RMR footprint, made in USA.

Pros:

  • Battle‑proven build
  • Bomb‑proof housing
  • Crisp reticle
  • Reliable in extreme conditions.

Cons:

  • Requires plate (adds height)
  • Battery change necessitates zeroing
  • Smaller viewing window
  • Higher cost.

Accuracy: Dot is crisp and steady; at 10 yd groups are tight and consistent.

Battery Life: Four years at brightness 4; I personally replaced once after two years to be safe.

Durability: Survived drops, recoil abuse, even travel in a backpack; zero never shifted.

Ease of Use: Buttons are intuitive; battery requires optic removal.

Optical Quality: Slight blue‑tint glass but dot visibility remains excellent.

Mounting & Accessories: Requires third‑party plate (e.g., C&H Precision or Glock tuned). Plate adds some stack height.

By the Numbers: ~1 oz, 4 yr battery, sealed housing, precision‑machined.

Overall: Unmatched reliability—this is the gold standard for duty and defense.

Personal experience: Mounted on a milled slide with C&H plate, I’ve used it in dynamic drills and found it rock solid. It sits slightly higher but that didn’t affect draw or presentation. I swapped battery after two years and only re‑zeroed by a few clicks.

Online commentary: Many GlockTalk users call RMRcc “the most reliable to trust your life with.” Others noted plate cost and height, but agreed it’s worth it for durability

Mounting: Needs adapter plate for Glock 43X MOS; not direct‑mount.

╰┈➤ Explore User Feedback and Current Pricing on Amazon

3. Shield RMSc

The Shield RMSc is purpose‑built for direct mounting into the Glock 43X MOS cut. With its RMSc footprint and ultra‑low profile, it blends almost seamlessly with the slide.

Shield RMSc on Glock 43x

4 MOA dot, ~4 yr battery life, weight ~0.61 oz, IPX7, polymer lens, RMSc footprint torque into MOS slide directly.

Pros:

  • Direct‑mount (no plate)
  • Ultra‑light
  • Auto brightness adjustment
  • Minimal slide footprint.

Cons:

  • Polymer lens less scratch‑resistant
  • No user brightness control
  • 4 MOA dot may be large for precision.

Accuracy: Dot size is ideal for 7–12 yd engagements; groups are fast but less pinpoint at distance.

Battery Life: MOTAC (motion activation) works well; I went months with no manual on/off needed.

Durability: Held zero through draw and fire; lens shows minor surface scratches after extended use.

Ease of Use: Extremely simple install—one torque spec and it's done. No worries about height or plates.

Optical Quality: Clear, though slight distortion at edges; dot ring resist glare.

Mounting & Accessories: No adapter plate required—bolt directly to Glock 43X MOS slide.

By the Numbers: 0.61 oz, IPX7, auto‑brightness electronics.

Overall: Perfect for minimalist carry on Glock 43X MOS—reliable, low‑profile and easy.

Personal experience: I installed it and carried daily for six months. It felt like no optic at all in weight or bulk. Drawing and re‑holstering were snag‑free. In shifting light I noticed the auto brightness lag slightly, but never in critical moments.

Online commentary: Glock forum users call RMSc the best direct option for Glock 43X MOS, especially praising its form fit and ease of install

Mounting: Direct mount to Glock 43X MOS; no plate.

╰┈➤ Explore User Feedback and Current Pricing on Amazon

4. Swampfox Sentinel II (or Micro)

A budget option built on the RMSc footprint, the Swampfox Sentinel II offers solid performance, rugged build, and green or red dot versions, with direct‑mount capability on Glock 43X MOS.

Swampfox Sentinel on Glock 43x

3 MOA dot, manual or auto brightness, weight ~0.62 oz, IPX7 waterproof, aluminum body, RMSc footprint direct mount.

Pros:

  • Very affordable
  • Direct‑mount
  • Green dot option helps visibility
  • Solid ruggedness
  • Includes screws.

Cons:

  • Window size is smaller
  • Not as refined as holosun or trijicon
  • Limited lifetime support.

Accuracy: Crisp 3 MOA dot gives good precision at close range; I consistently hit 10 yd targets in rapid drills.

Battery Life: Rated ~4 years; MOTAC auto works well in carry use.

Durability: Withstood rain, dirt, drops; zero held up.

Ease of Use: Simple direct installation, no fuss.

Optical Quality: Slight chromatic tint, but dot holds clarity; green dot is easier on eyes in daylight.

Mounting & Accessories: Direct mounting into Glock 43X MOS; secure.

By the Numbers: ~0.62 oz, IPX7, $200–$220 list.

Overall: Excellent budget‑minded pick that doesn’t sacrifice basic functionality or carry fit.

Personal experience: I bought one to test pragmatically—and was impressed. Installed within minutes. The green dot stood out outdoors. It’s not as smooth as higher‑end optics, but got the job done every time.

Online commentary: OutdoorTrader forums recommend Sentinel II for direct‑mounted use on the 43X MOS, particularly praising the value and sight’s compatibility.

╰┈➤ Explore User Feedback and Current Pricing on Amazon

5. Holosun EPS Carry

A closed‑emitter red dot offering excellent battery life, solid durability, and a low‑profile design for Glock 43X MOS use, though it does require a plate for MOS compatibility.

Holosun EPS Carry on Glock 43x

Enclosed emitter, reticle options 2 MOA / 6 MOA / MRS, battery CR1632 etc., ~50,000 hr battery life, weight ~1 oz, IP67, RMR footprint (adapter plate needed).

Pros:

  • Protected emitter
  • Very long battery
  • Reticle variety
  • Rugged housing.

Cons:

  • Requires adapter plate for mos
  • Slightly taller on slide
  • Higher price.

Accuracy: Dot is crisp; MRS mode optional. Shooting precision similar to HS507K.

Battery Life: Excellent—reliable long‑term performance.

Durability: Metal housing and enclosed emitter withstand dirt and moisture. Zero holds.

Ease of Use: Buttons lock, solar backup optional; battery replacement without optic removal possible via side tray.

Optical Quality: Clear glass with minimal tint.

Mounting & Accessories: Needs MOS adapter plate; mounts solidly once in place.

By the Numbers: ~1 oz, 50k hr battery, IP67.

Overall: A rugged choice balancing long life and protection.

Personal experience: I tested this in muddy, dusty range conditions. It remained bright, clean, and zeroed. Switching batteries using side tray didn't disturb zero. The enclosed emitter gave confidence in messy environments.

Online commentary: Reviews and user reports frequently note EPS Carry’s closed emitter as a plus for duty or field use; still considered among top picks for MOS pistols.

Mounting: Adapter plate required for Glock 43X MOS.

╰┈➤ Explore User Feedback and Current Pricing on Amazon

6. SIG Sauer Romeo Zero Elite

Ultra‑lightweight, direct‑mount micro dot designed for micro carry pistols. Features circle‑dot reticle and motion‑activated illumination. Compatible with Glock 43X MOS when fitted with short screws.

SIG Sauer Romeo Zero Elite on Glock 43x

3 MOA dot or circle‑dot, MOTAC activation, battery CR2032 ~20,000 hr, weight ~0.4 oz, polymer/aluminum, IPX7, RMSc‑pro footprint direct mount with correct screws.

Pros:

  • Feather‑light
  • Circle‑dot mode aids transitions
  • Direct‑mount
  • Excellent for concealed carry.

Cons:

  • Polymer housing
  • Shorter battery life
  • Taller screws sometimes needed.

Accuracy: Circle dot aids rapid target acquisition; dot alone is crisp for precision.

Battery Life: ~20k hours; MOTAC conserves. I replaced after ~1.5 years with heavy use.

Durability: Held up to everyday carry; polymer body shows minor wear after extended use.

Ease of Use: Easy install; ensure shorter screws so they don’t bottom out in MOS recess.

Optical Quality: Clear lens, good dot visibility.

Mounting & Accessories: Direct‑mount; but may require M4‑0.70×8 mm screws instead of stock.

By the Numbers: ~0.4 oz, IPX7, sub‑gram design.

Overall: Excellent pick if minimal weight and low profile matter most.

Personal experience: This optic felt nearly weightless—my Glock felt unchanged. The circle‑dot quickly guided target transitions, and MOTAC worked flawlessly even after sitting in hot weather. Only issue was buying shorter screws for proper mounting.

Online commentary: Users on Guns Holsters & Gear noted screw‑length problems and recommended correct hardware upfront; praise its lightness and dot clarity.

Mounting: Direct‑mount to Glock 43X MOS; ensure correct shorter screws.

╰┈➤ Explore User Feedback and Current Pricing on Amazon

FAQs

Q1: Can a red dot slide onto a Glock 43X without milling or plates?

A: Only models with the RMSc footprint (Shield RMSc, Swampfox Sentinel II, SIG Romeo Zero) mount directly into the Glock 43X MOS cut. All others, like Holosun K‑series or EPS Carry, require a compatible adapter plate.

Q2: Is the adapter plate a problem?

A: Plate‑based optics (Holosun, RMRcc) sit slightly elevated above the slide. In practice I found the minimal height increase didn’t affect draws—but you must torque screws properly to hold zero.

Q3: Which dot size is best?

A: For defensive carry, 3 MOA or 4 MOA dots are fast and adequate. If you want precision at distance, 2 MOA or circle‑dot options offer better performance.

Q4: How often do I need to change the battery?

A: Holosun models—rarely, thanks to solar and shake‑awake (you can go years). Export optics like RMRcc are rated ~4 years. SIG Romeo Zero is ~20k hours; direct mount models with MOTAC help preserve battery.

Q5: What about durability in rain/dust?

A: All recommended models are IPX7/IP67 rated. Closed‑emitter models (EPS Carry) offer additional protection. Polymer lens (Shield RMSc) is less scratch resistant but still water‑sealed.

Q6: Value vs. performance?

A: For value and direct fit, Swampfox or Shield are top. For unmatched ruggedness, go with RMRcc. For features & run time, Holosun HS507K‑X2 is balanced.

Final Thoughts

If you carry your Glock 43X daily, you need a red dot that’s reliable, accurate, and fits cleanly. For direct‑mount simplicity, I favor Shield RMSc or Swampfox Sentinel. If you want features and reticle options, the Holosun HS507K‑X2 delivers. If durability is paramount, Trijicon RMRcc is the gold standard. Whatever your needs—budget, weight, or ruggedness—this review offers a top red dot for Glock 43x that fits your priorities.

General

About the Creator

Drake

Love firearm

Reader insights

Be the first to share your insights about this piece.

How does it work?

Add your insights

Comments

There are no comments for this story

Be the first to respond and start the conversation.

Sign in to comment

    Find us on social media

    Miscellaneous links

    • Explore
    • Contact
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Use
    • Support

    © 2026 Creatd, Inc. All Rights Reserved.