Putting my Glock MOS 19 in my E&E. I want a red dot on it without switches preferably. I know the Trijicon RMR is that way but wondering about less expensive options. Some advertise 50,000 hours. Input appreciated. Thanks
Update: I am 1000% satisfied with the Dawson suppressor sights & DeltaPoint Pro and practice using both iron & red dot. Groups are comparable. I had difficulty shooting video with my left hand but you get the idea. Best viewed in full screen to see red dot.
I have a trijicon RMR type 2 on my duty weapon. Some say that a Holosun is for "poors" but I have only heard good things. Search for SageDynamic's videos on youtube. He torture tests all the major MRDSs including several six foot drops on concrete directly on the optic. The Trijicon RMR performed best in the drop test with the Holosun 507c(I think 507c) cracking slightly on maybe the second drop but it was still totally usable. It actually fared better than the Leopold DeltaPoint Pro which shattered and was unusable in my opinion. In my opinion, If it was for Law Enforcement use I would go with the Trijicon RMR for the proven reputation that it has for durability and the Holosun would be my second choice for that application. If it was for concealed carry where it won't really see any abuse then I would go with the Holosun if money is a factor.
I do like the top loading battery on the DP Pro but i've had my RMR for 1.5 years and havn't changed the battery yet.
I missed the part where you specifically asked about less expensive options. I would not go to Vortex because ,at least when I was researching this topic a few years ago, none of their models are "constant on" which was a deal breaker for my purposes and they don't look durable at all although that is purely speculation.
The DP pro is decent but but only around $75-100 cheaper than an RMR and in my opinion the RMR is the most durable. It's only competition for durability is the Aimpoint ACRO but the ACRO cost even more than the RMR.
For a cost effective but reliable option I would go with the Holosun and not worry about it.
Side note, If its just for concealed carry then this isn't really needed but If this gun will see some abuse I would recommend an aftermarket adapter plate like the C&H precision plate. This would be much more durable than the standard MOS mount.
Just so ya know...I studied the RMRs features extensively (as have others) and found the smaller sight picture less favorable. But then my application for my Glock 40 is two-fold, as a sidearm in the field and CCW. I grew tired of carrying multiple weapons when I travel from state to state on hunting trips...one for CCW (usually a .40) and another for the field (usually a .44) so the G40 seemed like a decent choice for both applications. I can see where the RMRs smaller frame would make it tougher but I wanna bigger sight picture so I can get on target quickly. I looked at a lot of reviews...for several months before deciding. I like that i can easily turn the red dot on, off and adjust the brightness with a simple press of the top button. Hold it down to turn dot off for storage. Not arguing with the LEO above...just a different opinion...he's probably a better shot than I.
I looked at the DP pro and really like the idea of the top loading battery and larger window. I cant argue with that. Its definitely not a bad choice. I think the the RMRs durability comes from the shape of the window having the two points vs a rounded shape.