Top Categories

Handgun Iron Sights vs Reflex Optic Part 1

Have you ever considered getting a reflex optic for you handgun? I know I have… For me, there are two main considerations when deciding whether or not to make the investment: cost and capabilities.

Cost is an easy assessment – can you afford it. Adding a reflex optic to your handgun is not cheap. The optic alone, like the excellent Trijicon RMR for example, can cost more than your handgun, and you still have to get your slide milled by a competent gunsmith.

Capabilities however, can be a bit harder to assess. Will adding a reflex optic make you a better shooter? Is it enough of a difference to justify the cost? In the video below, Aaron Cowan from Sage Dynamics compares two Glocks, one with traditional sights and the other with a Trijicon RMR to see which is faster and more accurate to help you make the decision.

Also be sure to check out handgun iron sights vs reflex optic part 2.

, , ,

4 Responses to Handgun Iron Sights vs Reflex Optic Part 1

  1. Jake September 21, 2013 at 12:55 pm #

    Awesome video…for me, it’s never been worth the investment.

  2. old and scarred September 21, 2013 at 1:20 pm #

    made investment on an RMR & had Lone Wolf do a slide for my glock with the RMR installed. My results are pretty much the same as AC in the vid. figure once i have shot as many rounds with my RMR as i have with iron sights, then my proficiency with reflex optics will be as good. to bad i will be about 102 years old……..

  3. hardh8 September 22, 2013 at 4:59 am #

    Interesting. How much does that site weigh? Is it bulky with that site on the gun?

  4. cj October 15, 2013 at 9:18 am #

    Glad he listed the disclaimer about his experience with irons vs. reflex, and that newer shooters might benefit. I’d also venture that those who don’t get to practice often might benefit as well, but can’t really be sure unless someone sets that test up.

    I’d also be curious about less traditional positions, such as shooting one handed, one handed while moving, or other positions not as frequently used. Some of the ranges he’s testing (such as on some qualifiers), I’ve found that I don’t end up even needing the sights and am, in fact, shooting before even fully extended and able to get good hits.

    Interesting take on them though, and I know I’ll continue to watch for more like this before I’m willing to put down the cash necessary for a reflex/pistol setup!