Know The Intricacies Of Red Dot Optics Footprints

Red dot optic sights have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially among shooters who want faster target acquisition and improved accuracy. One of the key factors to consider when choosing a red dot sight is the type of footprint it uses. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the different footprints available for red dot optic sights and what you need to know when selecting one.

What is a Red Dot Optic Sight Footprint?

A red dot sight footprint refers to the pattern of screw holes on the sight’s base. The footprint determines which mounting system the sight is compatible with, and therefore, which firearms it can be mounted on. A footprint is typically named after the brand or model of the mounting system that it is compatible with. The OuterImpact MRA is compatible with multiple footprints and our Micro will accommodate multiple micro red dot footprints.

A very good resource is at the opticstradeblog. We use it all of the time and it is extremely helpful and up to date. Usually, the manufacturer will provide the footprint used, so you will know before purchasing what will be needed to mount the optic to the firearm.

Different Red Dot Optic Sight Footprints

Here are the most common red dot optic sight footprints:

Glock MOS

The Glock Modular Optic System (MOS) is a mounting system that is designed specifically for Glock pistols. It features a series of screw holes on the slide that allow red dot sights to be mounted directly to the pistol. The Glock MOS footprint is becoming increasingly popular, and more red dot sights are being made with this footprint in mind.

SIG Sauer Romeo

The SIG Sauer Romeo is a red dot sight that uses a proprietary mounting system. The Romeo footprint features a series of screw holes that are spaced differently than other footprints, making it incompatible with other mounting systems. However, some manufacturers are making adapter plates that allow red dot sights with other footprints to be mounted on SIG Sauer pistols.

Trijicon RMR

The Trijicon Ruggedized Miniature Reflex (RMR) is a popular red dot sight that uses a proprietary mounting system. The RMR footprint features two screw holes that are spaced differently than other footprints, making it incompatible with other mounting systems. However, some manufacturers are making adapter plates that allow red dot sights with other footprints to be mounted on firearms with an RMR cut.

Choosing the Right Footprint

When choosing a red dot sight, it is important to ensure that it has the right footprint for your firearm. If you have a Picatinny rail on your firearm, then a red dot sight with a Picatinny mount will be compatible. If you have a Glock MOS cut on your pistol, then a red dot sight with a Glock MOS footprint will be compatible. If you have a firearm with a proprietary mounting system, then you may need to look for a red dot sight that is specifically designed for that system. An adapter plate from OuterImpact will allow you to mount multiple footprints to a single firearm. If your weapon does not have a factory installed optic cut, OuterImpact will be able to update the gun to allow mounting a red dot optic without modification.

Conclusion

Red dot optic sights are a great addition to any firearm, but it is important to choose the right footprint for your firearm. The most common footprints are Glock MOS, SIG Sauer Romeo, and Trijicon RMR, but others are available. Make sure to do your research and choose a red dot sight with the right footprint.