With so many compact optics on the market, finding the Best Red Dots for Glock 43 Mos comes down to a balance of features like ruggedness, ease of use, clarity, and concealability.
The Glock 43 MOS is a slim, reliable handgun that’s a favorite for concealed carry, and pairing it with the right red dot sight can dramatically enhance your shooting speed, accuracy, and target acquisition.
Whether you’re a defensive carrier, competitive shooter, or range enthusiast, choosing a red dot that complements the Glock 43 MOS’s compact size and modular optics system ensures maximum performance and confidence in any scenario.
Best Red Dots for Glock 43 Mos
1) Vortex Optics Defender CCW Micro Red Dot Sight
The Vortex Defender-CCW Micro Red Dot Sight is one of the best red dots for Glock 43 Mos. It is available in 3 or 6 MOA dots for fast target acquisition, has an RMSc footprint, is motion-activated with a 10-minute auto shut-off, has a top-mounted battery, is constructed of 7075 Aluminum, has unlimited eye relief, and has more features.
Purpose-built for concealed carry and stands out as one of the best red dot options for the Glock 43 MOS. This optic offers maximum concealment without sacrificing performance, featuring a slim, snag-free profile and weighing next to nothing.
Whether you choose the 3 MOA or 6 MOA reticle version, you’ll enjoy lightning-fast target acquisition with a brilliant, illuminated dot that remains sharp even in low-light conditions.
Designed around the needs of everyday carriers, the Defender-CCW fits directly on Shield RMS and RMSc footprints, which means it mounts easily to the Glock 43 MOS without requiring modifications or adapter plates.
The sight features motion activation for immediate readiness when drawn, and a 10-minute auto-shutoff helps preserve battery life. With eight daylight brightness settings and two night-vision compatible modes, this red dot adjusts perfectly to any lighting environment.
The Defender-CCW offers one of the largest, distortion-free sight windows in its class, thanks to its hard-coated aspherical lens. That means quicker target transitions, improved situational awareness, and true-color clarity with every shot. And with unlimited eye relief and parallax-free performance, you’ll get fast and accurate aiming from any position.
Durability is another area where this optic excels. Its 7075 aluminum body is reinforced by a ShockShield polymer insert, which absorbs impact and resists daily wear and tear. A Fast-Rack textured front face allows for quick and secure slide manipulation off any surface, making it incredibly functional in high-stress scenarios.
Add to that a top-loading battery compartment, which lets you change batteries without removing the sight or losing zero, and you’ve got a micro red dot that delivers both toughness and convenience.
And like all Vortex products, it’s backed by their unconditional VIP Warranty for lifetime peace of mind.
Pros
- Available in 3 or 6 MOA dot for fast target acquisition
- Direct fit for RMSc footprint—perfect for Glock 43 MOS
- Large, distortion-free lens for excellent sight picture
- Motion-activated with 10-minute auto shut-off
- Top-mounted battery for easy changes without rezeroing
- 10 brightness settings, including 2 night vision compatible settings
- ShockShield polymer insert for added impact resistance
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction
- Lifetime, no-questions-asked VIP Warranty
Cons
-
No manual shutoff (reliant on auto-shutoff)
2) Crimson Trace RAD Micro Compact Pistol Sight
The Crimson Trace RAD Micro Compact Pistol Sightis a stellar red dot option for Glock 43 MOS owners looking to enhance their concealed carry setup with speed, accuracy, and smart technology. Compact, lightweight, and intuitive, the RAD Micro is purpose-built for subcompact pistols and offers a perfect balance between minimalist design and dependable performance.
It mounts seamlessly to the Glock 43 MOS using the Shield RMS and JPoint footprint, ensuring a secure fit with no extra hardware needed.
At the heart of this optic is a 3 MOA red dot reticle, the ideal size for rapid target acquisition without obscuring your view. It also features an integrated co-witness notch sight, which adds a level of redundancy and confidence in high-stress defensive scenarios.
The ambient light sensor automatically adjusts reticle brightness to match your environment, and CT Motion “shake-to-wake” technology ensures the sight is always ready the moment you draw.
With 20,000 hours of runtime on a single CR1632 battery, the RAD Micro is built for long-term reliability. While the battery compartment is located on the bottom (requiring removal to replace), its high-efficiency LED ensures you won’t be changing it often.
The optic is also IPX4 water-resistant and constructed from aerospace-grade aluminum, with a recessed lens design that protects against drops, scuffs, and the rigors of everyday carry.
Slim and ultralight at just 1 ounce, the RAD Micro won’t weigh down your pistol or print through clothing, making it one of the best red dot sights for those who prioritize stealth and functionality in their EDC setup.
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight and compact – perfect for Glock 43 MOS
- 3 MOA dot is ideal for precise and fast target acquisition
- Motion-activated reticle with shake-to-wake sensor
- Ambient light sensor for automatic brightness adjustment
- Integrated co-witness sight for added backup
- Durable aluminum housing with recessed lens for protection
- 20,000-hour battery life with included CR1632 battery
- Compatible with Shield RMS and JPoint footprints
- IPX4 water-resistant for daily carry in variable weather
Cons
- Bottom battery access requires removal for replacement
3) HOLOSUN EPS Carry Reflex Pistol Sight
The HOLOSUN EPS Carry Reflex Sight stands out as one of the best red dots for Glock 43, it is purpose-built for slim, subcompact pistols, the EPS Carry delivers rugged reliability, class-leading clarity, and performance-driven features in a compact, enclosed design. With its 7075 T6 aluminum housing, IPX8 waterproof certification, and aspherical glass lens offering zero distortion, this sight is engineered for demanding concealed carry use.
One of the most impressive attributes of the EPS Carry is its green 2 MOA dot, powered by Holosun’s 540nm Super LED. It delivers an extremely crisp aiming point and ensures faster target acquisition even in bright daylight.
Thanks to its multilayer reflective glass and aspherical optics, the EPS Carry provides a clear, parallax-free view with excellent light transmission and glare reduction, key advantages for fast-paced defensive scenarios.
Holosun’s Shake Awake Technology with last setting recall boosts operational readiness while preserving battery life. The sight automatically turns off after inactivity (adjustable from 10 minutes to 12 hours) and instantly powers back on with even the slightest movement. Combined with a robust battery life of up to 50,000 hours from a single CR1620 battery, this optic is both efficient and ready when you are.
Designed with an ultra-low deck height, the EPS Carry integrates smoothly with most factory iron sights and includes a built-in rear notch for backup aiming.
It features the Holosun K-series footprint and ships with an RMSc-to-K adapter plate, ensuring seamless compatibility with Glock 43 MOS and similar subcompact pistols.
Pros
- Ultra-durable 7075 T6 aluminum construction
- Enclosed emitter design protects from debris and weather
- Aspherical glass lens offers zero distortion and crisp clarity
- The red or green 2 MOA dot is ideal for quick, accurate targeting
- Shake Awake with the last setting recall enhances readiness
- Massive 50,000-hour battery life with CR1620 battery
- IPX8 waterproof rating – excellent for all weather conditions
- Low profile allows co-witnessing with most factory iron sights
- Includes RMSc-to-K adapter plate for wide compatibility
Cons
-
Battery replacement requires optic removal (bottom loading)
4) Trijicon RMRcc Red Dot Sight
When it comes to premium red dot sights tailored for concealed carry pistols like the Glock 43 MOS, the Trijicon RMRcc rises to the top. Built specifically for slimline handguns, the RMRcc offers a compact, snag-free design that excels in both performance and carry comfort. Its low-profile 1x13mm footprint helps prevent hang-ups on clothing or holsters, ensuring lightning-fast draws in high-stress scenarios.
Durability is where the Trijicon RMRcc truly sets itself apart. Its patented housing shape is designed to redirect the force of impacts away from the lens, giving it an edge in survivability compared to traditional open-emitter red dots.
Whether you’re on the range, in the field, or in a self-defense situation, this optic is built to withstand abuse. It’s also waterproof up to 20 meters (66 ft), making it more than capable of handling harsh environments and unexpected weather.
With a crisp 3.25 or 6.5 MOA red dot, shooters get a fast, precise aiming point that supports both-eyes-open shooting. The true-color, multi-coated lens allows for excellent light transmission and minimal color distortion, giving you a clear view of your target at all times.
The 8 user-controlled brightness settings, including 2 night vision modes and 1 super-bright mode, provide full control over the optic’s performance in any lighting condition.
RMRcc users will appreciate the upgraded electronics and ruggedized battery contacts that deliver reliable performance and a long service life. The optic runs on a CR2032 battery, providing up to 4 years of battery life.
Additionally, tool-less windage and elevation adjustments (3 MOA per click) make zeroing quick and convenient, perfect for those who value fast, hassle-free tuning.
Pros
- Ultra-rugged aluminum housing with patented impact-deflecting design
- Slim, snag-free profile ideal for concealed carry
- True-color multi-coated lens for excellent clarity
- 8 brightness settings, including night vision compatibility
- Crisp red dot (3.25 or 6.5 MOA) for rapid target acquisition
- Waterproof to 20 meters – excels in harsh conditions
- Tool-less windage/elevation adjustments (3 MOA per click)
- Button lock-out and lock-in modes for secure brightness control
- Up to 4 years of battery life on a common CR2032 battery
Cons
-
Requires custom mounting plates for certain pistol models
5) Holosun HS507C X2 Red Dot Sight
The Holosun HS507C X2 stands out as one of the best red dots for Glock 43 MOS, blending advanced technology, rugged construction, and user-friendly features into one compact optic. While originally designed for full-sized pistols, its industry-standard footprint and slim profile make it a practical and powerful upgrade for compact handguns like the Glock 43 MOS.
At the heart of the HS507C X2 is Holosun’s Red Super LED, delivering a clear 2 MOA dot or 32 MOA circle—or both simultaneously—thanks to its Multi-Reticle System (MRS). This versatility allows shooters to tailor the sight picture to their needs, whether for precision shooting or faster target acquisition.
The optic features Shake Awake technology, which turns off the reticle during periods of inactivity and instantly reactivates it with movement, preserving the up to 50,000-hour battery life of the CR1632 battery. And with its side-mounted battery tray, battery replacement is a breeze, no re-zeroing required.
Adding to its battery-saving design is Solar Failsafe, which ensures the red dot keeps running in the event of battery failure by harnessing ambient light. In Auto Mode, this feature also dynamically adjusts reticle brightness based on surrounding lighting, ideal for variable environments. You can always switch to manual brightness control for more hands-on adjustment, with 10 daylight and 2 night vision-compatible settings available.
Constructed from 7075-T6 aluminum and finished with a tough anodizing process, the HS507C X2 is built for durability and field reliability. The housing design includes Lock Mode, which prevents accidental button presses, a huge plus for everyday carry or duty use. Paired with parallax-free viewing and unlimited eye relief, this optic offers an intuitive, comfortable aiming experience.
Pros
- Multi-Reticle System (MRS): 2 MOA dot, 32 MOA circle, or both
- Shake Awake technology conserves battery and ensures readiness
- Solar Failsafe provides backup power and auto-brightness in Auto Mode
- Side-loading battery tray—no need to remove the optic to change the battery
- 50,000-hour battery life from a CR1632 battery
- Rugged 7075-T6 aluminum housing with anodized finish
- 10 brightness levels + 2 night vision settings
- Lock Mode prevents accidental changes to settings
- Compact and compatible with Glock 43 MOS (with correct adapter plate)
Cons
-
An adapter plate may be required for proper fitment on the Glock 43 MOS
Next Read: 5 Best Red Dots for Glock 26
Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Red Dots for Glock 43 Mos
When choosing the best red dot sight for a Glock 43 MOS, there are several important factors to evaluate to ensure optimal performance, durability, and compatibility. Here are the key factors:
Concealed Carry Compatibility
Since the Glock 43 MOS is a slim, subcompact pistol commonly used for concealed carry, it’s important to choose a red dot that complements this design. The optic should have a low-profile housing to avoid printing through clothing and feature a snag-free shape to ensure smooth draws from a holster.
A compact, lightweight sight also minimizes added bulk, maintaining the balance and concealability that makes the Glock 43 MOS ideal for everyday carry.
Durability and Build Quality
Red dots for carry pistols must withstand recoil, impact, and environmental exposure. Look for rugged housings made from high-strength materials like aircraft-grade aluminum and designs that deflect impact away from critical components such as the lens.
Waterproofing and resistance to shock or vibration are also essential, especially if you rely on your red dot in unpredictable or harsh conditions.
Battery Life and Power Management
A red dot sight should offer long-lasting battery life to reduce the frequency of replacements and ensure the optic is always ready when you need it. Efficient power management systems, like motion-activated wake functions or power-saving modes, are highly desirable.
The ability to run for thousands of hours on a single battery, along with user-friendly battery access, is crucial, especially in optics used for personal defense.
Brightness Settings and Night Vision Compatibility
Brightness versatility is vital to adapting to various lighting environments, from full sun to total darkness. A high-quality red dot should include multiple brightness levels, including extremely bright modes for daylight and night vision-compatible settings for low-light or tactical use. User-control options that let you lock in or automate brightness settings add another layer of convenience and usability.
Reticle Design and Options
The reticle is the heart of a red dot sight, and having options improves versatility. A crisp, easy-to-see reticle, such as a 2 MOA dot or a combination dot and circle, allows for quick target acquisition without sacrificing precision. Some users prefer smaller dots for accuracy, while others favor larger or multiple reticle choices for faster alignment under pressure.
Mounting Compatibility
The Glock 43 MOS uses a modular optic system, which means the red dot must be compatible with its narrow slide profile or use an adapter plate. Ensuring the optic fits securely and maintains zero under recoil is critical. It’s also wise to verify that the sight uses a common mounting footprint to keep options open for future pistol or slide upgrades.
Ease of Adjustment and Controls
Tool-less windage and elevation adjustments can be a major convenience, especially when fine-tuning your zero. Intuitive control buttons for brightness and reticle mode selection should be easy to operate without being prone to accidental presses. A lockout or lock-in feature is especially helpful for maintaining preferred settings during concealed carry or competition.
Optical Clarity and Lens Quality
A red dot sight should deliver a clear, unobstructed view with minimal color distortion. Look for multi-coated lenses that enhance light transmission and reduce glare, which improves both target visibility and dot sharpness. High optical clarity is essential for fast shooting with both eyes open, which is the primary advantage of using a red dot on a compact defensive pistol.
Taking these factors into account will help ensure you choose a red dot sight that enhances the performance and carryability of your Glock 43 MOS without compromising reliability, usability, or personal defense readiness.
Best Red Dots for Glock 43 Mos FAQs
Will any red dot fit on a Glock 43 MOS?
Not all red dots will fit the Glock 43 MOS out of the box. The Glock 43 MOS has a narrow slide, so it requires red dot sights that are specifically designed for micro or subcompact pistols. Additionally, it uses the Modular Optic System, which may need an adapter plate depending on the footprint of the optic you choose.
It’s important to check for compatibility with the Glock’s factory-cut slide or consider aftermarket mounting solutions tailored for slimline pistols.
Do I need suppressor-height sights with a red dot on the Glock 43 MOS?
While not strictly necessary, suppressor-height or co-witness iron sights are highly recommended when using a red dot. They allow for co-witnessing, which means you can still align your iron sights through the red dot window in case the optic fails.
This is especially important on a concealed carry gun like the Glock 43 MOS, where reliability is paramount. They also help during the initial learning curve of red dot shooting by providing a visual reference.
How long does the battery typically last in a red dot for the Glock 43 MOS?
Battery life varies by model and usage, but many modern red dot sights for the Glock 43 MOS offer battery life up to 50,000 hours or more. Features like Shake Awake and Auto Shutoff help conserve power by turning off the reticle when not in use and instantly reactivating it when motion is detected. Some models even include solar backup systems, extending runtime and ensuring visibility even if the main battery is low.
Conclusion
Choosing the best red dot for the Glock 43 MOS involves more than just picking a recognizable brand; it’s about matching your optic to your shooting style and intended use. The top-performing options share critical traits: slim profiles that won’t snag, durable builds to withstand real-world abuse, and intuitive controls for fast adjustments on the fly.
With features like multi-reticle systems, extended battery life, and user-friendly mounting systems, these red dots empower shooters to get the most out of their micro-compact Glock setup.
Invest wisely, and you’ll find that the right red dot can turn a solid concealed carry pistol into an even more precise and capable tool.