How to Choose the Right Red Dot Sight: Spoiler Alert: The Answer is Holosun

Ronnie Aldrich   May 07, 2025

Optics

Introduction

Red dot sights are huge in the tactical enthusiasts community, and we love a good red dot sight ourselves. Which is why we are huge Holosun fans. There are other great sights but Holosun really knocks it out of the park every single time. 

We decided to put together a buyer's guide for red dot sights to do our part to help you out with choosing the red dot that's best for you  

So, What Is a Red Dot Sight?

A red dot sight is a non-magnified optic that allows for rapid target acquisition by projecting a simple dot reticle onto a lens. Basically you look through the lens, line the dot up with your intended target and pull the trigger. They’re ideal for pistols, carbines, shotguns, and even rifles.

Key Factors to Consider   

• Reticle Type

Generally you can choose from single dot, circle dot, or a multi reticle system

Holosun’s Multi-Reticle System (MRS) lets you switch between a 2 MOA dot, a 65 MOA circle, or both — adapting your sight to your shooting needs. This is a versatile product as it allows you to choose between pinpoint accuracy and finding your target very quickly all with one product. 

**MOA stands for Minute of Angle or how many inches wide at 100 yards a way. so a      2 MOA dot will be covering a 2 inch space at 100 yards out and a 65 MOA circle, 65 inches wide at 100 yards

• Battery Life

Holosun is famous for “set it and forget it” battery life. Models like the 507C X2 boast up to 50,000 hours on a single CR1632 battery. So Basically its the best, one battery will last you for YEARS

• Solar Failsafe + Shake Awake

These features come standard on many Holosun models The Solar fail safe ensures your red dot is always ready to use and the shake awake extends your battery life by letting the red dot sleep until the gun moves — perfect for EDC or home defense.

• Mounting Platform Compatibility

Are you mounting to a Glock MOS? A Picatinny rail? Holosun has options with Trijicon RMR footprints and proprietary mounting solutions. So with Holoson you can mount to anything.

Popular Holosun Models (And What They’re Best For)

Here’s a quick breakdown of Holosun’s bestsellers and what they’re ideal for:

Model	Use Case	Key Features
507C X2	Pistol red dot for EDC/competition	MRS, Solar Failsafe, Shake Awake
407K X2	Slimline pistols like the Hellcat or P365	Compact, simple 6 MOA dot
510C	AR-15 or PCC	Enclosed reflex with a large field of view
509T	Duty or rugged use	Fully enclosed design, titanium body
403R	Budget-friendly rifle red dot	Simple and durable

 

5. Choosing the Right Holosun for You

• Everyday Carry? Go with the 507K or 407K for micro-compacts.
   

• Duty or Home Defense? The 509T or 507C offers durability and rapid acquisition.
   

• Range Use or Competition? The 510C gives you a huge window and quick transitions.
   

When it comes to choosing the right red dot, Holosun hits the sweet spot of affordability, innovation, and reliability. At The Gun Station, we carry a wide selection of Holosun optics — and our staff is happy to help you find the perfect one for your setup.

Stop by the shop or browse online to get a hands-on look at our Holosun collection.