Finding the best red dot for M&P 5.7 can elevate your shooting experience, offering faster target acquisition, improved accuracy, and enhanced versatility in various scenarios.
The M&P 5.7, known for its precision and reliability, pairs perfectly with a red dot optic that matches its performance. Whether you’re looking for rugged durability, intuitive features like automatic brightness adjustment, or compact designs tailored for concealed carry, the ideal red dot can enhance your firearm’s capabilities.
Key considerations include reticle options, mounting compatibility, battery life, and performance in diverse lighting conditions, ensuring you choose an optic that suits your needs, whether for self-defense, competition, or tactical applications.
About the M&P 5.7 (Smith and Wesson 5.7)
The Smith & Wesson M&P 5.7 is a polymer-framed, striker-fired semi-automatic pistol designed for versatility and reliability. It utilizes a short recoil-operated, locked-breech action with a Browning-type locking system and offers robust performance for both law enforcement and civilian markets.
Its Zytel polymer frame, reinforced with a stainless steel chassis, ensures durability, while the Melonite-treated stainless steel slide and barrel provide a non-glare, wear-resistant finish. The pistol features a low slide profile to reduce muzzle rise and enhance aim recovery, making it ideal for rapid shooting.
Ergonomics are prioritized with interchangeable grip inserts and an 18° grip angle for comfortable handling. Safety is a key focus, with options for an internal lock, magazine disconnect, and external thumb safety.
The integrated Picatinny rail allows for tactical customization, and its dovetailed iron sights or optional Novak tritium night sights enhance accuracy in various lighting conditions.
Designed with practicality and precision in mind, the M&P 5.7 embodies Smith & Wesson’s commitment to innovation and quality.
Best Red Dots for M&P 5.7 (Smith and Wesson 5.7)
1) HOLOSUN HS407K X2 Red Dot Sight
The HOLOSUN HS407K X2 red dot is the best red dot for M&P 5.7, it features shake awake technology, 10 DLt & 2NV Compatible brightness settings,6 MOA Dot reticle, anodized 7075 T6 Aluminum construction, unlimited eye relief, and more features.
This red dot sight stands out as the ultimate red dot sight for the Smith & Wesson M&P 5.7, offering exceptional performance, durability, and cutting-edge technology tailored for subcompact pistol applications. Designed with precision and reliability in mind, this optic is packed with features that elevate its usability and make it a perfect pairing for the versatile M&P 5.7.
At the core of the HS407K X2 is Holosun’s Red Super-LED technology, delivering an incredibly crisp and clear 6 MOA dot. The large dot size enhances rapid target acquisition, especially under high-stress scenarios, making it ideal for both defensive and recreational shooting. Coupled with an impressive 50,000-hour battery life, this optic ensures consistent performance over extended periods, eliminating the worry of frequent battery changes.
The HS407K X2 incorporates Holosun’s innovative Shake Awake technology, which intelligently conserves power by deactivating the LED when the optic is not in use. The slightest motion reactivates the red dot, ensuring it’s always ready when needed. This feature is customizable, allowing users to set the activation time from as short as 10 minutes to up to 12 hours—or deactivate it entirely for continuous operation.
Constructed from 7075-T6 aluminum, the HS407K X2 is built to withstand harsh conditions while maintaining a lightweight profile. The optic’s anodized surface enhances its resilience to wear and corrosion.
Its side-mounted CR1620 battery tray enables quick and hassle-free battery replacements without removing the optic, preserving your zero settings. The inclusion of Lock Mode prevents accidental adjustments, ensuring your settings stay intact during use or storage.
Holosun’s multilayer reflective glass maximizes light transmission, reduces glare, and enhances reticle clarity, delivering unparalleled visibility in varying lighting conditions. The sight offers 12 reticle intensity settings, including 10 for daylight use and 2 for night vision, accommodating diverse operational environments. With its parallax-free design and unlimited eye relief, the HS407K X2 guarantees quick and accurate target acquisition from any angle.
The optic uses Holosun’s proprietary K footprint, making it a direct fit for certain platforms like the P365X/XL. While the M&P 5.7 may require an adapter plate for a four-boss interface, the installation is seamless and secure, offering a stable and reliable attachment for optimal performance.
You will need #6-32×1/2 screws for HOLOSUN HS407K X2 Red Dot Sight.
Specifications
- Reticle: 6 MOA Dot
- Magnification: 1x
- Housing Material: 7075-T6 Aluminum
- Brightness Settings: 10 daylight, 2 night vision
- Window Size: 0.58 x 0.77 inches
- Operating Temperature: -30°C to 60°C
- Battery Life: 50,000 hours
- Adjustment Per Click: 1 MOA
- W&E Travel Range: ±30 MOA
Pros
- Long-lasting 50,000-hour battery life.
- Shake Awake technology for automatic activation.
- Durable 7075-T6 aluminum housing.
- Clear and crisp 6 MOA reticle with multiple brightness settings.
- Side-mounted battery tray for easy replacement.
- Compact and lightweight design, ideal for subcompact pistols.
Cons
- Requires an adapter plate for four-boss interface compatibility.
- Larger 6 MOA dot may not suit precision-focused shooters.
2) HOLOSUN HE507K Red Dot Sight
The HOLOSUN HE507K Red Dot Sight is a premium open reflex sight crafted specifically for subcompact pistols, making it an exceptional option for the Smith & Wesson M&P 5.7. Its cutting-edge features, robust construction, and user-friendly design combine to provide a dependable and efficient sight for concealed carry, self-defense, and target shooting applications.
At the heart of the HE507K is Holosun’s Multi-Reticle System (MRS), which offers unparalleled versatility. The reticle options include a 32 MOA circle for rapid target acquisition, a precise 2 MOA dot for accuracy at longer ranges, or a combination of the two for ultimate flexibility. This customizable system allows shooters to adapt their sight picture to different shooting scenarios with ease, enhancing performance across a range of distances.
The HE507K is built from 7075-T6 aluminum, a material known for its strength and lightweight characteristics. It features an anodized surface finish that resists wear and corrosion, ensuring the optic stands up to tough environments. With up to 50,000 hours of battery life on setting 6, this red dot sight ensures reliable performance during extended use. The side-mounted CR1632 battery tray makes replacing the battery hassle-free without removing the optic, preserving zero.
Holosun’s Shake Awake Technology extends battery life by deactivating the LED when the sight is idle. The smallest motion reactivates the reticle, ensuring it’s always ready when you need it. Users can customize the activation time from 10 minutes to 12 hours or disable the feature entirely for continuous operation. This intelligent system is ideal for concealed carry or rapid-response situations.
To prevent accidental adjustments during use, the HE507K is equipped with a Lock Mode that secures the reticle settings. This feature ensures consistent performance, even during rigorous activities or while the pistol is holstered.
The optic uses Holosun’s K footprint, making it a direct fit for certain platforms like the P365X/XL. For the M&P 5.7, an adapter plate is required to accommodate the four-boss interface, providing a secure and reliable fit.
The HE507K features multi-coated lenses that enhance light transmission and reduce glare, delivering a sharp and bright sight picture in varying lighting conditions. With 12 brightness settings—10 for daylight and 2 for night vision compatibility—this optic excels in both bright and low-light environments.
You will need #6-32×1/2 screws for this Red Dot Sight.
Specifications
- Reticle: 2 MOA Dot, 32 MOA Circle, or Both
- Magnification: 1x
- Brightness Settings: 10 daylight, 2 night vision
- Material: 7075-T6 Aluminum
- Window Size: 0.58 x 0.77 inches
- Battery Life: Up to 50,000 hours (setting 6)
- Adjustment Per Click: 1 MOA
- Waterproof Rating: IP67
Pros
- Versatile Multi-Reticle System (MRS) for customizable sight pictures.
- Long-lasting 50,000-hour battery life.
- Durable 7075-T6 aluminum housing with anodized finish.
- Shake Awake Technology ensures instant readiness.
- Lock Mode prevents unintentional setting changes.
- Side-mounted battery tray for easy replacement.
- Parallax-free design with unlimited eye relief.
- IP67 waterproof rating for reliability in harsh conditions.
Cons
- Compact size may not suit all users’ preferences for larger windows.
3) Sig Sauer Romeo Zero Reflex Sight
The Sig Sauer ROMEOZero Reflex Sight is a high-performance, ultra-compact micro reflex sight tailored for concealed carry and slim slide pistols, engineered for rapid target acquisition and built to endure the rigors of everyday use, the ROMEOZero offers an excellent balance of durability, performance, and value making it an incredible Red Dot for M&P 5.7.
The ROMEOZero’s compact profile and lightweight WeaponsGrade polymer housing make it an ideal choice for concealed carry pistols. Weighing just 0.4 ounces, it doesn’t add unnecessary bulk, ensuring your firearm remains easily manageable.
The textured polymer body is ruggedized to withstand drops and harsh conditions, while the stippling pattern complements the grip design of firearms like the P365 series for an integrated, sleek appearance.
The ROMEOZero is equipped with a SpectraCoat HD Polymer Lens, offering 10 times the impact resistance of traditional glass lenses. This durable lens system ensures exceptional clarity and resistance to scratches, making it a reliable choice for demanding use. The lens delivers a parallax-free sight picture, providing precision and accuracy in every shot.
This optic includes MOTAC (Motion Activated Illumination System), which powers the sight on when motion is detected and shuts it off during inactivity, significantly extending battery life. With up to 20,000 hours of runtime from a single CR1632 battery, the ROMEOZero ensures consistent performance without frequent battery changes.
The 8 brightness settings offer adaptability to various lighting conditions, delivering a crisp and vivid 3 MOA red dot for fast and precise aiming.
Designed for versatility, the ROMEOZero is compatible with Shield RMS-c and J-Point footprints, allowing it to mount easily on a range of pistols, including the M&P 5.7 with the appropriate slide cut. It’s particularly suited for polymer pistols and slim slide profiles, making it a top choice for concealed carry enthusiasts.
Specifications
- Reticle: 3 MOA Red Dot
- Magnification: 1x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Battery: CR1632
- Battery Life: Up to 20,000 hours
- Brightness Settings: 8 daytime levels
- Dimensions: 1.6 in (L) x 0.93 in (W) x 0.93 in (H)
- Weight: 0.4 oz
- Footprints: Shield RMS-c, J-Point
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight design for minimal impact on firearm handling.
- Durable SpectraCoat HD Polymer Lens with superior impact resistance.
- MOTAC system maximizes battery efficiency.
- Compact housing optimized for slim slide pistols.
- Wide compatibility with popular footprints (Shield RMS-c and J-Point).
- Parallax-free for precise shooting accuracy.
- Integrated stippling pattern for a seamless aesthetic on compatible pistols.
Cons
- Polymer lens, while durable, may not provide the same optical clarity as premium glass lenses.
4) Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Reflex Sight
The Leupold DeltaPoint Pro Reflex Sight is an elite optic designed to deliver unmatched performance in challenging conditions, making it an excellent choice for the M&P 5.7. Engineered with professional-grade features and rugged construction, this red dot sight offers exceptional clarity, durability, and ease of use.
This Red Dot for M&P 5.7 features Leupold’s Professional-Grade Red Dot Optical System, which provides industry-leading light transmission for superior visibility, even in low-light conditions. Its advanced lens coatings reduce glare in harsh lighting, ensuring a clear, crisp image regardless of the environment. This performance makes it ideal for tactical and hunting applications.
Leupold’s Twilight Red Dot System enhances visibility by maximizing lens clarity and maintaining consistent color. This system is especially beneficial in low-light scenarios, allowing you to see more detail when it matters most. Combined with a 2.5 MOA red dot, this sight ensures rapid target acquisition and precision accuracy.
Constructed with lightweight, durable aluminum and a rugged steel sheath, the DeltaPoint Pro is built to withstand the toughest conditions. Its advanced sealing methods protect the internals from extreme temperatures, moisture, and shock, ensuring reliable performance in any situation.
Tested to endure 5,000 impacts on Leupold’s Punisher recoil simulation machine, this optic can handle the recoil of even the most powerful firearms.
User-friendly features include a tool-less, spring-actuated battery compartment for quick and easy battery changes, and click adjustments for precision. Motion Sensor Technology (MST) conserves battery life by deactivating the illuminated reticle after five minutes of inactivity and instantly reactivating it with motion.
With 300 hours of battery life on a single CR2032 battery and 8 brightness settings, the DeltaPoint Pro adapts seamlessly to your needs.
Specifications
- Reticle: 2.5 MOA Red Dot
- Magnification: 1x
- Objective Lens Size: 25.7 x 17.5 mm
- Brightness Settings: 8
- Battery Life: 300 hours (CR2032)
- Housing Material: Aluminum with spring steel sheath
- Operating Temperature: -20°F to 120°F
- Water Resistance: Waterproof up to 33 ft
- Weight: Lightweight and compact for versatility
Pros
- Outstanding optical clarity with professional-grade lenses and Twilight Red Dot System.
- Rugged construction, waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof for extreme reliability.
- Motion Sensor Technology for extended battery life and instant activation.
- Easy-to-use spring-actuated battery compartment.
- Durable enough to withstand intense recoil and harsh conditions.
- Wide field of view for rapid target acquisition.
- Designed, machined, and assembled in the USA with Leupold’s renowned quality.
Cons
- Battery life (300 hours) is shorter compared to some competitors.
5) Holosun SCS Solar Charging Sight
The Holosun SCS (Solar Charging Sight) is an innovative optic that perfectly complements the M&P 5.7, offering cutting-edge features designed for subcompact handguns. With its solar charging technology, multi-reticle options, and durable construction, the SCS is an exceptional choice for users seeking versatility, reliability, and convenience in a lightweight package.
One of the standout features of the Holosun SCS is its Solar Failsafe Technology, which ensures consistent operation even if the battery runs out. This system uses multi-directional solar panels to maintain a charge, automatically adjusting the reticle’s brightness to match ambient lighting. Whether in bright sunlight or dim environments, the SCS delivers optimal visibility, allowing you to focus on your target without manual adjustments.
Equipped with an internal rechargeable battery boasting a 20,000-hour lifespan, the SCS offers the potential for indefinite use when combined with its solar capabilities.
This eliminates the need for frequent battery replacements and ensures that the optic remains operational in almost any condition, making it a reliable companion for carry or tactical use.
The MRS (Multiple Reticle System) provides unparalleled customization, offering both a 32 MOA circle with a 2 MOA dot and the option to switch to just the 2 MOA dot for a cleaner sight picture. The larger circle facilitates quick target acquisition at close range, while the smaller dot enhances precision for longer shots. This flexibility caters to both rapid engagements and pinpoint accuracy, ensuring optimal performance in diverse scenarios.
Holosun’s Super Green LED operates at a wavelength (540nm) optimized for the human eye, providing superior visibility in all conditions. It also features night vision-compatible and daylight-bright settings, making it adaptable for a wide range of applications. Paired with multilayer reflective glass, the sight delivers exceptional clarity and sharpness, enhancing your shooting experience.
Built with 7075 T6 aluminum, the SCS is both lightweight and incredibly durable. Its IPX8 waterproof rating, resistance to vibrations up to 5000G, and ability to function in extreme temperatures (-30℃ to 60℃) make it a dependable choice for the most demanding environments. At just 1.05 ounces, the optic’s compact size and weight ensure minimal impact on the balance of your firearm.
Specifications
- Reticle: 2 MOA Dot & 32 MOA Circle
- Color: Green
- Housing Material: 7075 T6 Aluminum
- Brightness Settings: Solar-powered automatic adjustments
- Battery Life: 20,000 hours (rechargeable)
- Waterproof: IPX8 (submersible)
- Weight: 1.05 ounces
- Adjustment Click Value: 1.5 MOA
Pros
- Solar Failsafe ensures the sight operates without relying solely on the battery.
- Internal rechargeable battery with an impressive 20,000-hour lifespan.
- Multiple Reticle System allows for quick target acquisition and precision shooting.
- Super Green LED optimized for the human eye and compatible with night vision.
- Durable, lightweight design with an IPX8 waterproof rating.
- Easy integration with HOLOSUN-K or RMSc slide cuts.
Cons
- Limited to green reticle color, which may not suit all preferences
Next Read: 6 Best Red Dots for SIG P365
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Red Dot for M&P 5.7
Here are the most important considerations
Reticle Options and Size
The reticle size and design significantly impact how quickly and accurately you can acquire a target. For the M&P 5.7, red dots with a 2 MOA dot or combined options like a 32 MOA circle with a 2 MOA dot are ideal.
The smaller dot offers precision at longer ranges, while the larger circle assists in rapid target acquisition for close-quarters situations. Versatile reticle options, such as those found in optics with a Multiple Reticle System (MRS), cater to a variety of shooting needs.
Battery Life and Power Source
Battery life is a critical consideration, especially for red dots intended for everyday carry or extended field use. Look for optics with long-lasting batteries, such as 20,000 to 50,000 hours, or those featuring solar charging systems like the Holosun SCS.
Solar backup systems ensure your red dot remains functional even when battery levels are low, adding an extra layer of reliability. Features like Motion Sensor Technology (MST) that conserve battery by deactivating the reticle during inactivity also maximize efficiency.
Durability and Build Quality
The M&P 5.7 is a robust firearm designed for tactical and personal defense scenarios, so its red dot sight should match that durability. Optics constructed from high-quality materials like 7075 T6 aluminum or titanium are ideal, as they withstand shock, recoil, and harsh environmental conditions.
Waterproofing standards such as IPX8 and testing against extreme temperatures (-30℃ to 60℃) ensure that the optic performs reliably in any situation.
Ease of Use and Adjustments
User-friendly features enhance the overall shooting experience. Red dots with tool-less adjustment systems, click-value adjustments for windage and elevation, and top-loading battery compartments allow quick and hassle-free operation.
Intuitive brightness settings, especially automatic adjustments like Holosun’s Solar Failsafe™, make transitioning between lighting conditions seamless and stress-free, a crucial benefit for high-stress scenarios.
Optical Clarity and Lens Quality
Clear glass and advanced coatings are vital for precise shooting. Lenses with anti-glare coatings and technologies like Leupold’s Twilight Red Dot Light Management System improve visibility in various lighting conditions.
Optics with minimal parallax and unlimited eye relief ensure consistent accuracy, even when shooting from unconventional positions. For the M&P 5.7, this can be the difference between a clear shot and a missed opportunity.
Size and Weight
The compact and lightweight design of the M&P 5.7 makes it an excellent firearm for concealed carry and tactical use. A red dot sight should complement this by being small and lightweight to maintain the pistol’s balance and handling.
Optics weighing around 1 ounce, such as the Holosun SCS or Leupold DeltaPoint Pro, ensure minimal impact on maneuverability while offering all the functionality needed for precision shooting.
Compatibility and Mounting
The red dot must seamlessly integrate with the M&P 5.7’s slide cuts or require minimal adaptation. Models that directly attach to RMSc or HOLOSUN-K slide cuts are convenient and reduce the need for additional mounting accessories.
An optic that offers secure, low-profile mounting ensures better alignment with the bore, leading to faster target acquisition and a cleaner sight picture.
Price vs. Features
While budget is always a consideration, the best red dots balance affordability with advanced features. Higher-priced models, like the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro, offer unparalleled optical clarity, rugged construction, and long-term reliability.
Alternatively, mid-range options like the Holosun SCS provide innovative technologies such as solar charging at a more accessible price. Determining what features are essential for your shooting needs will help you make the most cost-effective choice without sacrificing performance.
Red Dot FAQs for M&P 5.7
What type of mounting footprint do I need for a red dot on the M&P 5.7?
The M&P 5.7 is designed with optics-ready capabilities, often compatible with RMSc or HOLOSUN-K mounting footprints. These footprints are common among compact and subcompact optics, making it easy to find compatible red dots like the Holosun SCS Solar Charging Sight or the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro. Ensure the optic you select includes the necessary mounting plates or adapters for seamless installation.
Do I need a red dot with an automatic brightness adjustment feature?
Yes, a red dot with automatic brightness adjustment, such as Holosun’s Solar Failsafe technology, is highly beneficial. It adapts reticle intensity based on ambient light, ensuring optimal visibility in varying lighting conditions. This is particularly useful for the M&P 5.7, which may be used for self-defense, where lighting changes can occur rapidly and unpredictably.
How do I zero a red dot on my M&P 5.7, and what distance is recommended?
Zeroing a red dot involves aligning the sight’s point of aim with the point of impact of your rounds. For the M&P 5.7, a typical zeroing distance is 15 to 25 yards, as this range balances accuracy for both close and mid-range engagements. Use the optic’s windage and elevation adjustment knobs to align the reticle with your shots on the target, firing in groups to confirm accuracy and making precise adjustments as needed. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific adjustment increments (e.g., 1.5 MOA per click).
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best red dot for M&P 5.7 is a game-changer, providing unmatched precision, speed, and adaptability. By considering factors like durability, battery life, reticle customization, and mounting compatibility we have settled on the above red dot sights.