You’ve probably heard of the RMSc footprint before, and when it comes to concealed carry handguns, RMSc optics perform the best. These sights are designed to fit perfectly on compact pistols, enhancing rapid target acquisition while maintaining a sleek design. In this guide, we’ve compiled a list of the top five RMSc footprint optics based on our own experience. Each of these optics offers unique features, superior performance, and exceptional value, allowing you to choose the perfect optic for your use case.
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HuntersHalt: #1 Pick
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1. Holosun Carry Enclosed Pistol Sight
- High battery life with a failsafe solar panel.
- Compact and durable design.
- Shake Awake Technology.
- Parallax-free lens with zero distortion.
- A bit more expensive than the other scopes on this list
- Requires an RMSc-to-K footprint adapter plate
The Holosun Carry Enclosed Pistol Sight (EPS) is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a compact, sturdy optic for their concealed carry pistol. The EPS’s key features include an impressive 50,000 hours of battery life in its CR1620 battery, a parallax-free lens, eight brightness settings, 7075-T6 Aluminum housing, and Shake Awake Technology, which lets the sight switch on after detecting motion.
I found the aspherical glass lens quite enjoyable for my astigmatism because it reduces distortion – giving me a clear line of sight every time. I also like the versatility of the multiple reticle system (MRS), providing me with a 2 MOA dot for precision and a 32 MOA circle for fast target acquisition. However, this optic truly shines in close-quarters situations where precision and speed are paramount.
I am a big fan of Holosun – I’ve never encountered a faulty product, and their red dot sights always offer great value. Holosun truly has a reputation for producing high-quality, durable optics, and the EPS is no exception. If you want a comparable optic, you should look at the esteemed Trijicon RMR Type 2, which also offers a rugged, reliable red dot optic.
It is important to note this red dot does not fit directly onto the Shield RMSC footprint. The EPS uses the Holosun K series footprint, which is more or less the same footprint as the RMSC with screw holes at the same location. However, it requires an adapter plate to ensure a secure mounting to an RMSC footprint.
Pros:
- High battery life with a failsafe solar panel.
- Compact and durable design.
- Shake Awake Technology.
- Parallax-free lens with zero distortion.
Cons:
- A bit more expensive than the other scopes on this list.
- Requires an RMSc-to-K footprint adapter plate
2. Vortex Defender CCW 1x25mm Red Dot Sight
- Motion activation and auto-shutoff.
- Large, clear lens.
- Multiple brightness settings.
- Night-vision compatible
- Shield RMSc footprint
- The 1 MOA dot can be too small for some users
Vortex has always impressed me with its reliable and durable optics. They make products packed with features at an affordable price, allowing people with a tight budget to also get a taste of advanced sight features.
The CCW features motion activation with a 14-hour auto-shutoff, eight brightness settings, a CR1632 battery with excellent battery life and is replaced at the top, night-vision compatibility, and a lightweight design of only 0.95 ounces.
In my experience, the motion-activation and versatility of this sight are its standout features. The battery-conservation features and easy-to-replace top-mount battery compartment increases the CCW’s versatility. While the lightweight, compact, and rugged design allows it to excel in an everyday carry environment regardless of the conditions.
The 1xMOA red dot makes it an easy aiming platform for beginners or those who want a simple aiming platform. The CCW is most comparable with the Aimpoint PRO, which also offers a very easy-to-use aiming platform.
Pros:
- Motion activation and auto-shutoff.
- Large, clear lens.
- Multiple brightness settings.
- Night-vision compatible
- Shield RMSc footprint
Cons:
- The 1 MOA dot can be too small for some users.
3. Shield Sights Compact Reflex Mini Red Dot Sight
- Durable and rugged.
- Extremely compact and lightweight
- Shock-resistant design.
- Available in 4 MOA and 8 MOA red dot
- Shield RMSc footprint
- A bit expensive for the number of features it offers
The Shield is probably the most durable of all the red dots on this list. The Reflex Mini red dot sight features an aerospace-grade aluminum housing, a CR2032 battery with a 3-year battery life, a crystal clear visual picture, and an extremely lightweight design of only 0.61 ounces.
I tested this optic on various pistols, but I’ve found it to work best as a red dot on the SIG P365 and the Glock 43. Its clear polymer lens makes it much more capable of absorbing shock and enduring high-recoil pistols.
Shield Sights are very rugged and have an easy-to-use interface. If you want something comparable, I would say the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro in terms of durability. But I would look more towards the Sentinel and Trijicon RMRcc with regard to size and compactness. Overall, this red dot sight is perfect for someone who wants an extremely compact, close-range red dot.
Pros:
- Durable and rugged.
- Extremely compact and lightweight
- Shock-resistant design.
- Available in 4 MOA and 8 MOA red dot
- Shield RMSc footprint
Cons:
- A bit expensive for the number of features it offers
4. Swampfox Sentinel Micro Dot Sight
Moving on to Swampfox, which is a relatively new brand but has quickly gained a reputation for its high-quality optics at very competitive prices. The Sentinel offers a compact yet robust design for everyday carry.
It has an impressive ten brightness settings that automatically adjusts based on the ambient lighting conditions. Alternatively, you can switch the brightness settings manually based on your own preference. The CR2032 battery has a long battery life thanks to the Shake n Wake system.
I’ve found the Sentinel to be highly versatile and reliable, especially with regard to its lightweight yet extremely durable design. It has a 3 MOA dot, making it a well-balanced optic for longer-range pistols. It works well on several pistols, but it’s definitely one of the best red dots for the hellcat. The Shield RMSC and Holosun HS403B are comparable products, offering a micro dot sight.
Pros:
- Compact and durable design.
- Shield RMSc footprint
- Automatic brightness adjustment.
- Shake ‘N Wake technology.
Cons:
- A newer brand with a less established reputation.
5. SIG SAUER ROMEOZero Elite Red Dot Sight
Apart from producing industry-leading firearms, Sig Sauger also makes high-quality optics like the Romeo Zero. This little sight of only 0.5 ounces is packed with features, such as the eight daylight brightness settings, durability-enhanced design, and a zero distortion aspherical glass lens.
I also like to highlight the feature I like the most, which is the T.A.P system. This system makes adjustments between brightness settings a breeze. This optic’s CR1632 battery has an average lifespan of only 20,000 hours, but truth be told, people rarely reach that amount of hours.
The ROMEOZero is best suited for people who want an affordable red dot that is compact and lightweight for their concealed carry pistol. A comparable red dot is the Trijicon SRO, with the Sentinel and Shield also viable competitors.
Pros:
- Ultra-compact and lightweight design.
- Premium features such as T.A.P. technology.
- Enhanced durability with carbon-infused polymer housing.
- Very affordable
- Shield RMSc footprint
Cons:
- Lower battery life compared to competitors.
- Some users might find the circle-dot reticle less suitable for their needs.
What Is An RMSc Footprint Red Dot Sight?
An RMSC footprint red dot sight is a type of red dot sight that is compact and has a low profile. It is designed specifically for smaller handguns and pistols. The RMSc footprint is named after the Shield Sights RMSc featured in this article. The footprint indicates the specific dimensions and configuration of the mount for it to be attached to the firearm.
What Are The Other Types Of Red Dot Sight Footprints?
Aside from the popular RMSc footprint, you also get the following footprints:
- Trijicon RMR footprint
- Docter/Noblex footprint
- Aimpoint Micro footprint
- Leupold DeltaPoint Pro footprint
What Factors Make A Quality RMSc Footprint Optic?
When looking at a quality RMSc footprint optic, we usually consider the following factors:
- Does it have a robust and durable build – preferably from high-grade aluminum, to ensure longevity and resistance to severe environmental conditions and collision?
- Does it feature a clear and high-contrast lens with adjustable brightness levels? This ensures visibility in different lighting conditions and also increases its versatility.
- What is the battery life, where is the battery compartment located and what features do the sights have to improve its battery life? We want at least 20,000 hours with a top-mounted battery compartment with motion-activated or Shake N Wake features.
- We also look at the size and weight of the optic. An RMSc footprint optic should be very compact and lightweight (less than 1 ounce).
What are the advantages of using an RMSc footprint optic compared to traditional iron sights?
- RMSc footprint optics allow for quicker and more intuitive target acquisition, as you can simply use the red dot as your point of aim.
- They work effectively in low-light conditions where iron sights can be challenging to use.
- Most RMSc footprint optics provide unlimited eye relief, making them more versatile and comfortable for various shooting styles and scenarios.
- RMSc footprint optics are designed to be compact and lightweight, making them suitable for small-frame handguns like those used for concealed carry without adding excessive bulk or weight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What applications are RMSc optics used for?
Can you change the footprint on your pistol?
Is there a difference between RMS and RMSc footprint optics?
The Bottom Line
Selecting the right RMSc footprint optic can significantly enhance your shooting performance. With options from Holosun, Vortex, Shield Sights, Swampfox, and SIG SAUER, you’re sure to find one that fits your needs and budget. Remember, a good sight is not just an accessory, but a vital tool for accurate shooting, so next time when your buying a RMSc optic, keep the rating factors in mind to ensure you only buy the best for your use case. Happy shooting!
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