What is a red dot?

A red dot sight is an optic designed to be used at close to medium range. They are commonly found on pistols and, in some cases, carbines. Red dot sights are typically 1X optics and do not feature any magnification.

How does a red dot sight work?

A red dot sight is simply an LED shining a beam of light onto a specially coated, slightly angled piece of glass. That That glass reflects the LED’s light, creating your dot. This allows you to see your reticle and see through your optic, but someone on the other side of the optic cannot see your reticle.

The size of a red dot is measured in MOA is controlled by an aperture hole in front of the LED. Bigger dots are quicker to see and get on target, smaller dots are better for shooting at moderate distances.

How to sight in a red dot?

Zeroing a red dot sight is typically a trial and error method. The most popular pistol zero is 25 yards however an accurate 10 yard zero is generally more effective and the holds are much flatter out to 100 yards compared to a 25 yard zero.

Our recommendation is that you zero for 10, make sure your group is tight, and then tailor your zero as you shoot.

How to sight in a Red Dot without shooting?

If you absolutely need to zero your red dot without shooting, you’ll need to pick up a boresight laser. Amazon’s got you covered.

If you’re really in a pinch: set a target at 10 yards, aim with your iron sights and adjust the red dot optic on to the target. It won’t be perfect but it’ll get the job done.

How to use a Red Dot Sight?

The key to using a red dot sight is to focus your eyes on the target and then put the dot on it. It’s really that easy.

The real challenge, however, is to perfect your technique (ie, the grip, draw, presentation and trigger press) so that the dot goes exactly where your eye goes. Structured dry fire and live fire training is even more important when relying on a red dot optic.

The Euseca Benelux delegation is organising specific courses for the use of the Red Dot.  Consult the COURSES section or connect to our COURSES CALENDAR.


European Security Academy
Red Dot Sight Pistol Transition