Hey Shooters, Welcome to Best Red Dot For Ruger GP100 in 2024.
Have you ever wondered how much a sight can alter your shooting game? With the right sight for your Ruger GP100. You’re not just shooting; you’re sculpting a masterpiece.
Through rigorous testing and countless hours at the range, I’ve gotten familiar with the nuances of some of the best red dot sights for this powerhouse of a revolver.
I’ll walk you through each, helping you choose the sight to enhance your shooting experience.
Top 5 Best Ruger GP100 Red Dots
1. Trijicon RMR Type 2
Overall Score 9.5
Tested With Scoring System 2.0
Why I Love It
There’s something special about the Trijicon RMR Type 2, and it’s not just because it’s the gold standard for micro pistol reflex sights.
It’s like the Swiss Army knife of red dot sights – tough, dependable, and capable, making it perfect for just about any shooting scenario.
Pros
Durable, made from aircraft-grade aluminum
Improved, secure battery compartment
Lightweight and robust
Ideal for short-range hunting
Cons
More expensive than some other models
It may require professional installation
This rugged piece of technology has been through the wringer – it can survive the recoil of even a Desert Eagle and is built to handle the high-speed G force of a handgun slide, which means it’s more than ready for your 357 revolvers.
The Trijicon RMR Type 2 model has a new and improved battery compartment with a better grip on the battery. This means you won’t have to worry about the dot going out because the batteries come loose.
It’s lightweight and robust, ready to be mounted on anything, even a 44 Magnum! The best part? The 3.25 MOA model has a dot size that’s perfect for shooting – easy to pick up and won’t leave you squinting.
My Experience
I found it to be incredibly durable, lightweight, and water, fog, and shockproof.
When I paired it with the Ruger GP100, it felt like the perfect match – the synergy between them was off the charts! And the lens? Just incredible. The coating offered amazing clarity and really enhanced my overall shooting experience.
2. Vortex Optics Venom – Best Bang For The Buck for Ruger GP100
Overall Score 9
Tested With Scoring System 2.0
Why I Love It
Every once in a while, you come across a product that just hits all the right notes, and for me, the Vortex Optics Venom is just that.
It delivers excellent performance without burning a hole in your pocket.
Pros
Lightweight, slim profile, and sturdy
Value for money
Multiple intensity settings for flexible usage
Top-loading battery access, eliminating the need for sight removal
A sealed lens keeps it safe from external elements
Cons
Not a night sight
It might not withstand heavy-duty usage as well as some premium options
Plus, it’s a slim, lightweight, and versatile red dot sight that works wonders on just about anything – pistols, shotguns, and rifles. The icing on the cake? The multi-intensity settings for rapid target engagement under any lighting conditions.
The Vortex Venom is a shooter’s favorite. You get a compact reflex red dot sight built with rugged aluminum housing.
But don’t let its lightweight (1.1 oz!) fool you – it’s sturdy as can be. It feels like a featherweight on the Ruger GP100, and the synergy between them is nothing short of impressive.
One feature that stands out with the Vortex Venom is the top-loading battery access. This means no sight removal for battery swaps or re-zeroing – a convenience that echoes the user-friendly design of the Holosun 507C.
The Venom’s lens is clear, bright, and sealed with an O-ring to keep moisture, dirt, and debris at bay. This sight is shock, water, and fog proof, ticking all the right boxes for a solid sight. And the size of the red dot? A perfect 3 MOA.
My Experience
My time with the Vortex Venom was a joy. Its lightweight construction, rugged durability, and clear lens were top-notch. The synergy with the Ruger GP100 felt natural and smooth.
3. HOLOSUN HS507C X2 – Best Alternative of Trijicon
Overall Score 8.9
Tested With Scoring System 2.0
Why I Love It
If you’re seeking durability and affordability in a red dot sight, the Holosun HS507C X2 is a shining example. It’s an excellent alternative to the Trijicon RMR without making your wallet flinch.
It’s user-friendly, flexible, and works flawlessly on various handgun platforms – including, of course, the Ruger GP100.
Pros
Affordable and durable
Three reticle options for versatility
Extended battery life with Shake Awake technology and Solar fail-safe power
Easy battery access without removing the sight
Fog, shock, and waterproof
Cons
It might not feel as premium as the Trijicon RMR to some users.
Holosun has delivered a real game-changer with the HS507C X2. It’s cost-effective, offering similar features and durability as an RMR but at a fraction of the price. And it’s not just the price tag that will make you smile.
The mounting footprint is identical to the RMR, saving you the hassle of finding a special mount every time you want to switch optics.
The HS507C X2 offers three reticle options – a 2 MOA dot, a 32 MOA ring, or just the 32 MOA ring. The standout feature has to be the Shake Awake technology coupled with the solar panel.
It’s designed to extend battery life past 50,000 hours by activating and deactivating the reticle based on movement. And if the battery dies, the Solar fail-safe power kicks in immediately to keep your optic on.
It uses a CR1632 battery which is conveniently accessible from a side tray, negating the need for sight removal when swapping batteries.
My Experience
Putting the Holosun HS507C X2 to the test with the Ruger GP100 was a breeze. It’s sturdy, with a matte black anodized finish that screams premium quality.
The lens is multi-coated, providing an impressively bright sight image, even in harsh weather.
4. HIVIZ GPLW01 Ruger GP100 – Best Front Handgun Sight
Why I Love It: Finding a night sight that hits all the right marks can be a bit of a challenge, but with the HIVIZ GPLW01, it feels like the stars have aligned. It’s more than just a sight. It’s an experience.
There’s something incredibly satisfying about using a sight that’s both high-performing and highly versatile, thanks to its interchangeable tritium fiber sticks.
The HIVIZ GPLW01 sets itself apart with its tritium fiber optics, glowing brilliantly in the dark without needing batteries.
And here’s the best part – you can change the color of the fiber stick as per your preference. Don’t fancy the default green? Switch it to red or orange or any color that suits your style. It’s all about giving you control and flexibility.
The HIVIZ GPLW01 is a tritium fiber optic night sight, glowing efficiently in the dark. It comes with interchangeable fiber sticks, allowing you to customize the color to your liking.
The sight doesn’t feature a lens, so maintenance is as simple as it gets. The housing is sturdy and built with robust metal.
My Experience
Testing the HIVIZ GPLW01 on my Ruger GP100 was a true pleasure. The ease of use, the simplicity of maintenance, and the flexibility of changing the fiber stick color – it was all a treat. And when it comes to performance in the dark, this sight shines, literally. It’s an ideal companion for any night-time escapade with your GP100.
Pros
- Tritium fiber optics that glow in the dark, eliminating the need for batteries
- Comes with interchangeable fiber sticks for color customization
- Doesn’t feature a lens, simplifying maintenance
- Solid metal housing ensures durability
Cons
- Doesn’t come with installation tools, which could be a minor inconvenience
- Tritium fiber optics can run out of light, requiring occasional replacements
5. MEPRO Tru-Dot – Best Night Sight For GP100
Why I Love It: When it comes to night sights, the MEPRO Tru-Dot is a game changer. It’s like having a pair of superpowers that help me accurately target in the dark. This is no mere sight – it’s a fusion of technology and precision that makes every shot count, and that’s why it stands out for me.
MEPRO Tru-Dot isn’t your everyday night sight. It’s robust, efficient, and tailor-made for the Ruger GP100. What makes it special is its military-grade performance, lending credibility and reliability to its use.
It’s not the cheapest option out there, but for its sheer durability and high performance, it’s worth every penny.
The MEPRO Tru-Dot is a tritium-infused night sight designed for accuracy in low-light conditions. The frame is constructed with durable metal, ensuring longevity and sturdiness.
It’s compatible with the Ruger GP100, including the 357 Magnum variant.
My Experience
Shooting with the MEPRO Tru-Dot on my Ruger GP100 was quite an adventure. Its precision was on point, and it hardly ever missed a target, even in the dark.
And it’s not just about hitting the target – the sight also offers a level of comfort and ease that made my shooting experience far more enjoyable.
Pros
- Delivers superior performance, even in low-light conditions
- Robust metal construction, designed for longevity
- Compatible with Ruger GP100, including the 357 Magnum variant
- Tritium-infused for optimum visibility
Cons
- Higher price point, but justifiable for the quality and performance
- Tritium sights replacement requires specific tools and skills, which might be challenging for beginners
Mounting Options
There are two optic plates that stand out, one from Allchin Gun Parts and the other from Weigand Machine and Design.
The Allchin Gun Parts offers a micro red dot mount plate that’s drilled with various holes, which means it can accommodate different types of optics. This is a plus for those who may want to switch between optics. It’s also easy to install, making it a convenient choice.
On the other hand, Weigand Machine and Design provide a long Picatinny rail, which is compatible with most optics that use an M1913 mount.
This can be particularly advantageous for those who prefer a standardized mounting solution. What’s even more impressive is that it does not require any drilling for installation, which is a huge plus.
Final Verdict
In choosing a sight for your Ruger GP100, you’ll need to consider your specific needs. If you’re looking for top-tier performance, the Trijicon RMR Type 2 might be the one for you.
If you want value for money, consider the Vortex Optics Venom. For a good Trijicon alternative, go for the HOLOSUN HS507C X2.
For the best front handgun sight, HIVIZ GPLW01 is a great pick. And for the best night sight, the MEPRO Tru-Dot will serve you well.
FAQ’s
Can you put a scope on a Ruger GP100?
Yes, you can mount a scope on a Ruger GP100. However, you will need a scope mount or rail adapter. Make sure to choose one that is compatible with the GP100’s mounting points.
Is a Ruger GP100 worth it?
Absolutely. The Ruger GP100 is renowned for its robustness, reliability, and accuracy. It’s a great choice for both target shooting and hunting, especially with its .357 Magnum caliber. Its excellent reputation and performance make it worth the investment for many gun enthusiasts.
Which is better, Ruger GP100 or SP101?
Both the Ruger GP100 and SP101 are solid revolvers, but the choice depends on your needs. The GP100 is larger and heavier, making it more suitable for home defense or hunting. It handles recoil better due to its size and weight. On the other hand, the SP101 is more compact and lighter, making it an excellent choice for concealed carry.
Is Ruger GP100 good for concealed carry?
While the Ruger GP100 is a fantastic revolver, its size and weight might make it a bit challenging for everyday concealed carry. It’s larger and heavier than many options designed specifically for concealed carry, like the Ruger SP101. That said, it could work for concealed carry if you prefer larger revolvers and have an appropriate holster and clothing.