Best Concealed Carry Optics Of 2023

What Makes A Good Red Dot Optic? 

For concealed carry applications, a red dot optic should be intuitive as well as supremely reliable. The following combination of features will aid target acquisition and ensure optimal performance even during extended use:

  • 2 or 3 MOA dot - the best option for a balance of speed and precision
  • Long battery life - 20,000-30,000+ hours (less with solar charging)
  • "Shake to wake" technology - to further extend battery life
  • Secure mounting system  -  do not loose zero if you bump or drop the pistol
  • Exterior battery cover - no need to re-zero when replacing batteries

Also consider the ability to co-witness with backup iron sights. In the unlikely event your red dot should fail during a defensive encounter, you can still deploy your handgun effectively when you need it the most.

Top 5 Red Dots For Carry In 2023

The best concealed carry optics will satisfy all of the above criteria and function flawlessly with most optics-ready pistol slides, as the ability to quickly attach and remove your red dot will eliminate the hassle of changing out your EDC firearm. Here are the 5 best models available for purchase in 2023.

Leapers UTG OP3 Mini

For an affordable entry-level carry optic, it's tough to beat the OP3 Mini. This red dot is compatible with the Shield RMSc footprint and features an integral rear backup iron sight. Although it lacks a true "shake to wake" option, the constant-on 3 MOA dot does automatically adjust brightness to preserve battery life.

SwampFox Justice

SwampFox packed a lot of excellent features into the Justice micro red dot, including Shake N' Wake technology and anti-scratch / anti-fog coating for hassle-free everyday use. The 27mm window offers enhanced visibility for quick transitions between targets. 

Swampfox Justice Micro Reflex Sight 1x27 Red Dot 3MOA
Swampfox Justice Micro Reflex Sight 1x27 Red Dot 3MOA
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Holosun 407C X2

With up to 50k hours of battery life, the Holosun 407C X2 is a powerful optic perfect for concealed carry. Its versatility is further aided by Shake Awake technology, as well as the integral Solar Failsafe, which allows the optic to charge via sunlight without swapping batteries.

Holosun HE407CGRX2 HE407C X2 Black Anodized 1x 2 MOA Green Dot Reticle Includes Battery/Lens Cloth/T10 L Key
Holosun HE407CGRX2 HE407C X2 Black Anodized 1x 2 MOA Green Dot Reticle Includes Battery/Lens Cloth/T10 L Key
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Sig Sauer Romeo1Pro

The Sig Sauer Romeo1Pro features an enhanced emitter for superior brightness and battery life, plus it is built to withstand even the harshest treatment without loosing zero. It is compatible with all Sig pistols and any pistols that accept the Romeo2 sight interface system.

Trijicon RMR Type 2

Constructed from rugged yet lightweight forged aluminum, the RMR Type 2 from Trijicon is one of the best red dot optics on the market. It is intuitive and boasts more features than most other red dots available in 2023, offering the greatest degree of flexibility for your everyday carry. 

Trijicon 700672 RMR Type 2 Matte Black 1x 3.25 MOA Illuminated Red LED Dot Reticle
Trijicon 700672 RMR Type 2 Matte Black 1x 3.25 MOA Illuminated Red LED Dot Reticle
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How To Sight In Your Pistol-Mounted Red Dot

Once you've selected your concealed carry optic, it's time to hit the range and zero your dot. Watch our video with Kaya to learn how you can easily sight in your pistol-mounted red dot for quick, precise shooting.

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