⁠Best Red Dot For Mark 23

I’ve thoroughly tested the Mark 23. In my journey to explore its capabilities, I’ve reviewed various optics specifically designed for this Mark 23. 

The primary objective of this article is to provide a detailed review of the different optics available for the Mark 23. 

⁠Best Red Dot For Mark 23	Category
Trijicon RMR	Best Overall
Aimpoint ACRO	Solid Option

Top 2 Best Mark 23 Red Dot

1. Trijicon RMR – Best Choice

The Trijicon RMR Type 2 with 3.25 MOA Adjustable LED offers enhanced precision and durability for various shooting applications.

Adjustable Brightness Settings: The optic’s eight brightness settings, including two for night vision and one super bright, provide exceptional adaptability to changing light conditions. During field tests, I found this feature particularly useful in diverse environments, from bright daylight to dimly lit indoor ranges. 

The ability to quickly adjust brightness ensures the reticle remains visible and crisp, enhancing target acquisition speed and accuracy. The automatic brightness mode, which adjusts to ambient light, proved effective during transitions between varied lighting scenarios, ensuring the dot was neither too dim nor overly bright.

Battery Conservation Mode: The battery conservation mode, which adjusts the aiming dot to ambient lighting conditions after 16.5 hours, is a standout feature. In my experience, this greatly extends battery life without compromising on performance. 

During a prolonged field test, the optic reliably maintained its settings and brightness, even after days of continuous use. 

This extended battery life is particularly advantageous for users who need a dependable sight for extended periods, such as in hunting or surveillance scenarios, ensuring that the optic is always ready for use without frequent battery changes.

Button Lockout: The button lockout feature, which sets the RMR into automatic mode to prevent accidental adjustments, is a thoughtful addition. 

While testing, I appreciated the assurance that my settings would remain constant, regardless of inadvertent button presses. This feature is especially useful in high-stress situations or when wearing gloves, as it eliminates the risk of unintentional setting changes that could impact shooting accuracy. 

Red Dot Size and Versatility: The 3.25 MOA dot size is exceptionally versatile, offering a balance between precision at distance and rapid target acquisition. 

In my tests, the dot size was small enough to allow for accurate shooting at range while also being sufficiently large for quick target engagement. This balance makes the RMR Type 2 ideal for a variety of shooting disciplines, from tactical applications to competitive shooting. 

The ability to adjust the reticle brightness also allows for customization of the dot size appearance, catering to personal preferences and specific shooting conditions.

2. Aimpoint ACRO – Solid Option

The Aimpoint ACRO P2 is a robust, ultra-compact red dot sight optimized for durability and long-lasting performance.

3.5 MOA Red Dot: The 3.5 MOA red dot of the Aimpoint ACRO P-2 is precisely sized for quick target acquisition while maintaining accuracy.

In field tests on my Mark 23, this red dot proved to be exceptionally effective for both close-range and moderate-distance shooting. Its crisp and clear dot allowed for rapid engagement with targets, significantly improving my shooting efficiency. 

The dot’s size strikes a perfect balance, making it large enough to easily catch the eye yet small enough to allow for precision shots. This feature is especially beneficial in scenarios where speed and accuracy are equally important.

Battery Life and Type: The impressive 50,000-hour battery life, powered by a CR2032 battery, means the sight is always ready for action. 

In my experience, this extended battery life is a significant advantage, eliminating the need for frequent battery changes and providing peace of mind during extended field use. 

The reliability of having a sight that’s consistently operational, especially in situations where there’s no room for error or downtime, is invaluable. This long battery life is particularly beneficial for professionals or enthusiasts who rely on their equipment for extended periods.

Low-Profile Design: The low-profile design of the ACRO P-2 is optimized for applications requiring minimal visual obstruction. When mounted on my Mark 23, the sight’s compactness allowed for a clear and unobstructed view of the surrounding environment, which is crucial for situational awareness. 

This design is particularly advantageous for tactical applications where a bulky sight could hinder maneuverability or become snagged. The sleek profile also contributes to the overall aesthetics of the firearm, maintaining its streamlined appearance.

Shock and Vibration Resistance: The ACRO P-2’s ability to endure extreme G-forces and vibrations is remarkable. Throughout rigorous testing involving rapid firing and handling, the sight maintained its integrity and accuracy. 

This resilience is crucial for a sight mounted on a high-powered firearm like the Mark 23, where recoil and operational stresses are significant. 

Fully Enclosed Optical Channel: The fully enclosed optical channel is a standout feature, protecting the LED emitter from dust, debris, and moisture. 

This design aspect was particularly noticeable during field tests in sandy and dusty environments, where the sight remained clear and unobstructed. This protection ensures the emitter’s longevity and consistent performance, a critical aspect for shooters who operate in challenging conditions. 

How to mount a red dot on Mark 23?

To install a red dot on the Mark 23, the most effective method is to have the slide professionally milled to accommodate the specific red dots highlighted in the article such as the Trijicon RMR. This customization ensures a seamless integration of the optic with the handgun, enhancing the overall synergy and performance of the firearm.

Final Verdict

After extensive testing and analysis of these optics on my Mark 23, my final verdict is clear: Trijicon RMR emerges as the top choice. 

This conclusion is based on a comprehensive review of each product’s performance, reliability, and suitability for various shooting scenarios. 

While both sights exhibit exceptional qualities, RMR’s overall balance in functionality and adaptability to different shooting needs gives it a slight edge. 

FAQ’s

Is 3 or 6 MOA better?

The choice between 3 MOA and 6 MOA depends on your shooting range and purpose. For close-range targeting, typically under 50 yards, a 6 MOA red dot is excellent due to its larger dot size. For high-precision shooting and longer ranges, a 3 MOA red dot, offering a smaller dot size, is more suitable.

How far can a 3 MOA red dot shoot?

A 3 MOA red dot means the dot will appear approximately 3 inches in size at 100 yards. This size allows for accurate shooting at extended ranges, making it suitable for precision applications beyond just close-range targeting.

What size red dot is best for a pistol?

For pistols, both 3.25 and 6.5 MOA models are recommended. The 6.5 MOA model is leaning more favorable for easier target acquisition, suitable for both close-range and shots exceeding 100 yards. The choice depends on your preference for quick target acquisition balanced with the ability to make longer-range shots.