Best RMR Sight for Handguns

Whether you're a veteran shooter or a newcomer to the world of handguns, the concept of a pistol sight probably isn't foreign to you. More than just a fad, RMR sights have been steadily climbing the ranks of must-have pistol accessories.

Over the years, these compact but capable sights have proved their mettle time and again, offering quick target acquisition and improved accuracy. But with an ocean of options out there, finding the right fit for your firearm can feel overwhelming.

That's where we come in. In this guide, we'll take you through the ins and outs of the best RMR sights for  handguns. Let’s get you ready to make an informed decision and amp up your shooting game.

What is an RMR Sight?

Photo Source: Midway USA

An RMR sight, you ask? These optics go by a few names. Trijicon's RMR stands for Rugged Miniature Reflex. You'll often hear these terms in general as well: Red Dot Optics (RDOs), Micro Red Dots (MROs), or simply Red Dot Sights (RDS).

It might seem a bit overwhelming but don't fret — these names all boil down to essentially the same thing. For consistency, we'll stick to calling them RMRs throughout this article.

An RMR is a compact optic, composed of a sturdy metal or plastic frame that houses a piece of glass. The magic happens when a red dot is projected onto that glass.

The process for the shooter becomes refreshingly simple: Look at your target. Place the dot where you want your shot to land. Pull the trigger.

Pros & Cons of RMR Optics

In case you're wondering what the difference of a Trijicon SRO vs RMR... all you need to really know is that SRO's are typically used by competition shooters and that they can be quite fragile. Whereas the RMR is well known to essentially be an indestructible tank. We go into the details below:

Pros

• Simplified Targeting: Increases target acquisition speed.
• Improved Accuracy: RMR sights greatly enhance accuracy at distances beyond 15 yards. The red dot provides a more precise aiming point than the top of an iron sight.
• Quick Shooting: In trained hands, RMR pistol sights can help increase your shooting speed.
• Buttons: If you opt for an adjustable model, you'll find that the +- buttons on the sides of the optic are quite tough and not that easy to actuate which is good because it means the brightness won't change without you intentionally doing so.

Cons

• Battery Location: RMRs have to be completely removed from the slide in order to replace the battery which means every time you install a new one you also have to rezero your optic which is a pain.
• Prone to Fogging: The optics could potentially fog when transitioning from cool indoor climates to hot, humid outdoor environments - but this is the same for any open emitter.
• Dust Accumulation: Dust or lint can easily gather on the lens (especially if you carry IWB) potentially reducing the light transmitted through it - or just requiring frequent cleaning.
• Learning Curve (Not really a con): Those transitioning from iron sights often struggle to locate the dot in the window initially. However, this is an obstacle that can be overcome with training and practice.

Factors to Consider When Choosing RMR Sights

When it comes to choosing the perfect RMR sight, several factors can impact your decision:

-Durability

-Reticle size

-Battery life

-Mounting compatibility

-Price tag

All these factors play significant roles. But one aspect that often confuses new buyers is the MOA dot size.

MOA Dot Size

MOA, or Minutes of Angle, is a unit of measurement that sight manufacturers use to define the size of the red dot. A common misconception is that a larger MOA dot means a less accurate sight. That's not exactly the case.

The size of the dot can significantly impact how you use your sight. Larger dots (like a 6.5 MOA) are quicker to acquire, making them ideal for close-quarter situations or competition where speed is of the essence. They're often favored by law enforcement or home defense users who value a fast response.

Smaller dots (like 1 MOA or 3.25 MOA) offer high precision at longer distances. They cover less of the target at range, allowing for more precise shots. A popular choice for target shooters or those who require precision over speed.

Keep in mind that neither side is inherently superior—it all comes down to your specific needs and shooting style or what you train to be good with.

Durability and Reliability

RMRs are extremely rugged and reliable (hence the name). They’re capable of withstanding the recoil and the inevitable knocks and bumps they'll encounter. Shooters can expect their RMR to have a consistent performance, holding zero and providing a clear sight picture in all conditions.

Reticle Type

Photo Source: Trijicon

While the term "red dot sight" is widely used, it doesn't fully cover the variety of reticle options available in RMR sights. Yes, the classic red dot is the most common and popular choice, but there's more out there to explore.

• Dot: This is the most common type of reticle and is what RMR's offer. The dot, typically red, serves as the aiming point. Sizes vary, but popular options include 1 MOA, 3.25 MOA, and 6.5 MOA. Each size has its strengths, as we've previously discussed.
• Crosshair: RMR's do not have this. Some pistol red dot sights offer a crosshair reticle, which might be preferred by those who transition from traditional rifle scopes. This is weird, we do not recommend.
• Circle Dot: RMR's do not have this. This reticle combines a center dot with a larger surrounding circle. This setup can be beneficial as the larger circle allows for faster target acquisition in close-range shooting, while the center dot facilitates precision at longer distances.
• Chevron: RMR's do not have this. A less common but unique reticle type, the chevron uses an inverted 'V' as the aiming point. The tip of the chevron offers a precise aiming point, while the wide base can help with quick target acquisition.

The color of the reticle also plays a role. Red is the most common, but other colors like green or amber are also available. Some people find these colors to be more visible against certain backgrounds or lighting conditions.

Choosing the right reticle type is largely a matter of personal preference and depends on your shooting style and requirements. Try out different options, if possible, before settling on your choice.

Battery Life

Optics manufacturers have been innovative in designing features to ensure your sight stays powered up for longer and minimizing the chances of your sight going dark when you need it most. Trijicon is no exception to that.

• Auto Shut-off and Wake-up: Some RMR sights come with an automatic shut-off feature that turns the sight off after a certain period of inactivity which significantly saves battery life. When it senses movement again the sight 'wakes up' and turns back on. This feature is known as "Shake Awake," and is a useful way to extend battery life without sacrificing readiness.
• Adjustable Brightness Settings: Many RMR sights allow the user to adjust the brightness of the red dot. This allows you to balance visibility with battery consumption. Using a lower brightness setting in low light conditions can help prolong the battery life.
• Solar Backup: Some models of RMR sights even incorporate solar cells to supplement battery power, further enhancing battery longevity. While not a replacement for battery power, this feature can give you that extra peace of mind.

Mounting Capability

Attaching an RMR-compatible sight to a pistol is not as simple as adding a Picatinny rail. The process is more complex compared to attaching a rifle red dot sight. Your pistol's slide needs to be specially cut to accommodate an RMR-type optic.

Several factory-made guns already have this feature such as the Glock MOS series, which has a portion of the slide milled out to accept the optic.

If you're aiming to mount a standard-format red dot, you'll need a mounting plate. This component attaches to your firearm and includes the correct screw patterns for your specific sight.

When mounting your RMR optic, you should thoroughly clean the mounting surface, be it a plate or directly on the slide. It's also crucial to use a thread locker, which keeps the screws from loosening over time and throwing off your zero.

It's equally important to tighten screws to their recommended torque spec. If the screws are too loose, they may allow the optic to shift, making a consistent zero quite challenging to maintain. Remember, correct mounting is essential for the best performance and reliability of your RMR sight.

Price Range

The cost of RMR sights varies significantly, with prices falling anywhere between $400 and $600. At the lower end, you'll find basic models that are great for beginners or those on a tight budget. These are typically less durable and may lack some advanced features but can provide good value for the money.

In the mid-range you'll find RMR sights that balance affordability with improved durability and features. They might not offer the longest battery life or absolute precision, but they will be reliable companions for most shooting activities.

At the high end you'll encounter sights like the Trijicon RMR Type 2. These RMR sights are the cream of the crop, delivering top-notch durability, superior performance, and premium features. They command a higher price, but their quality can be well worth the investment for dedicated and professional shooters.

The key is to choose an RMR sight that suits your specific needs and budget. Regardless of the price range, it's essential that the sight is compatible with your firearm and meets your shooting requirements. After all, an RMR sight is an investment in enhancing your accuracy and shooting experience.

Top RMR Sights

Trijicon RMR - Type 2: 3.25 MOA

Photo Source: Trijicon

The  Trijicon RMR Type 2 is a top-tier RMR sight, sought after for its blend of speed, precision, and robustness. Known for its durability akin to the legendary Trijicon ACOG, this RMR sight significantly improves precision and accuracy across various calibers and firearm types.

Key features of the Trijicon RMR Type 2 include its 3.25 MOA red dot size, extremely durable design, button lockout, versatile application, and unique patented housing shape. It's also parallax-free, comes in a matte black finish, and boasts a battery conservation mode. The sight is also packaged with a sealing plate to ensure its battery remains protected from the elements.

Experts highlight the Trijicon RMR Type 2 for its robust construction, dependable electronic design, and versatile applications. It is ideal for a wide range of uses, from military and law enforcement to self-defense and competitive shooting. Moreover, customer reviews underscore the sight's ease of installation, improved accuracy, and superb value for money.

Please note: This RMR model does not have adjustable brightness buttons, as it is set to a non-adjustable brightness setting.

Trijicon RMR Type 2: 3.25 MOA, Adjustable

Photo Source: Trijicon

Trijicon's RMR Type 2 with Adjustable LED RMR enhances speed and precision, making it an optimal addition to your self-defense, duty, or competition pistol. The sight is engineered with legendary durability reminiscent of the Trijicon ACOG, enhancing precision and accuracy irrespective of the firearm's caliber.

The Key attribute of the Trijicon RMR Type 2 Adjustable is just that. It's adjustable, allowing for better target acquisition under all lighting conditions. The sight's patented housing shape enhances durability by absorbing impacts and diverting stress away from the lens.

Boasting redesigned electronics, the RMR Type 2 offers reliable performance when mounted on slide-ride pistols and other small arms. Its versatility makes it suitable for military, law enforcement, concealed carry self-defense, target shooting, and hunting applications.

Key features include its 3.25 MOA adjustable red dot size, high durability, button lockout, parallax-free nature, unique patented housing shape, and matte black finish. The sight also features a battery conservation mode and comes packaged with an RMR sealing plate to shield the battery from the elements.

Experts recommend the Trijicon RMR Type 2 for its robust construction and adjustable LED RMR. This adjustable brightness feature allows users to adapt to different lighting conditions, making it a popular choice among both novice and experienced shooters. Customer feedback underscores the sight's adjustability, sturdiness, and value for money.

Trijicon RCR Reflex Sight

Photo Source: Trijicon

The newest  Trijicon RCR Reflex Sight joins the flood of ‘mailbox optics’ that have been taking the market by storm with the increased popularity of enclosed emitters.

It will be an upgrade from the acclaimed RMR series, and offers advanced accuracy across various firearms. Its patented mounting system uses the RMR bolt pattern for easy adaptability without extra plates. The RCR conveniently has a lower deck height which ensures compatibility with RMR iron sights (iron sights that would work well with cowitnessing with the red dot).

Built from  7075-T6 aluminum with a hard coat anodized finish, the RCR is ready for the toughest environments. Its closed emitter design boosts drop survivability, while the true-color, multi-coated lens provides a clear target view. Ruggedized battery contacts and electronics, along with a six-year battery life facilitated by a single CR2032 battery, ensure dependable performance.

The ease of windage and elevation adjustments, along with the RCR's resilient build and user-friendly design, make it an excellent choice for diverse applications including military, law enforcement, personal defense, target shooting, and hunting.

Experts have endorse the Trijicon RCR Reflex Sight for its exceptional durability, user-friendly adjustability, and extended battery life. The combination of these qualities, alongside its multi-platform compatibility, establishes the RCR as a premier choice among shooters, regardless of their experience level. We can’t wait to get our hands on one.

Trijicon RMR HD

Photo Source: Trijicon

The Trijicon RMR HD is like the RMR and SRO had a baby together. It serves as the rugged-duty counterpart to the original RMR, bringing a high-performance, ultra-reliable optic specifically designed to cater to the evolving needs of law enforcement and military professionals.

Built on the sturdy framework of the RMR Adjustable LED model, the RMR HD stands out with its upgraded features like an enhanced field of view, a forward-looking light sensor, multiple reticle options, and superior illumination adjustability.

The top-loading battery ensures easy changes without dismounting the optic (thank the Lord), offering up to four years of battery life. More tactile windage and elevation adjusters provide tool-less zeroing. Crafted from 7075-T6 forged aluminum, the optic is waterproof up to 66 feet and robust enough to withstand daily duty.

The unobstructed field of view is enhanced by advanced lens technology for a crisp and clear picture. With nine brightness settings, the sight offers excellent visibility under any lighting conditions. The unique housing shape safeguards the lens from impacts, while improved controls offer positive feedback, even with duty gloves on.

Reticle options are versatile, offering a choice between a 1.0 MOA or 3.25 MOA center dot model. Both models feature a 55 MOA ring reticle that can be toggled on or off as needed. The RMR HD maintains the same footprint as the original RMR, allowing for effortless mounting on red-dot-ready pistols.

Experts herald the Trijicon RMR HD for its rugged construction, user-controlled illumination settings, and improved controls. With its unique blend of reliability, versatility, and advanced features, the RMR HD is recognized as a top choice for duty use. Initial reviewers expressed that they appreciate its larger field of view and increased durability compared to the SRO.

RMR’s are Great for the GST-9

Since the RMR HD and RCR aren’t available just yet, you can still opt for the current generation of RMR’s and feel good about your purchase as they will be much cheaper than the new optics releasing this fall.

Our top pick would be the Trijicon RMR Type 2 with its unmatched durability and the adjustable variant for adaptable brightness which have more than proven their worth in the field.

Choosing the right red dot sight comes down to your individual preferences, shooting requirements, and budget. A good sight enhances your accuracy and shooting experience and ultimately the choice should serve your unique needs.

In addition to these quality sights we recommend checking out 80% Arms parts and accessories to further enhance your shooting experience. Whether you're a novice shooter or a seasoned pro our range of products is designed to elevate your shooting performance and comfort. Don't miss our related blog posts for further insights and recommendations in the world of shooting. Make your next shot your best shot!