SERPENS Open Reflex Red Dot Sight for RMR Footprint Pistols - 3 MOA Green Dot Large Objective Lens Shake-Awake

SERPENS Open Reflex Red Dot Sight for RMR Footprint Pistols - 3 MOA Green Dot Large Objective Lens Shake-Awake

$118.89 USD
$118.89 USD

SERPENS Open Reflex Red Dot Sight for RMR Footprint Pistols - 3 MOA Green Dot Large Objective Lens Shake-Awake

How To Install A Red Dot On Your Pistol

Introduction

Installing a red dot sight on a pistol is one of the most effective upgrades for improving speed, accuracy, and target acquisition.

However, correct installation is critical. A poorly mounted optic can lead to loss of zero, shifting impact points, or even damage to the slide or optic.

This guide walks you through the correct, safe, and reliable way to install a red dot sight on an optic-ready pistol.

🔧 What You Need Before Installation

Before starting, make sure you have:

  • Compatible red dot sight (RMR / RMSc / etc.)
  • Correct mounting plate (if required)
  • Proper screwdriver / Torx wrench
  • Thread locker (blue Loctite recommended)
  • Torque driver (recommended, not required but ideal)
  • Clean cloth + alcohol for surface cleaning

Step 1: Ensure Firearm Is Unloaded

Before doing anything:

  • Remove magazine
  • Clear chamber completely
  • Double-check visually and physically

Safety is always the first step.

Step 2: Remove the Factory Cover Plate

If your pistol is optics-ready (MOS / OR system):

  • Remove factory cover plate screws
  • Take off the cover plate carefully
  • Keep screws in a safe place

Different pistols use different plate systems (RMR / RMSc / DPP).

Step 3: Match the Correct Footprint

This is the most important step.

You must match:

  • RMR footprint → full-size optics
  • RMSc footprint → micro compact optics
  • Proprietary patterns → specific models only

👉 Incorrect footprint = optic will NOT fit or will not zero properly.

Step 4: Install Mounting Plate (If Required)

Some pistols require an adapter plate:

  • Align plate with slide cuts
  • Ensure recoil lugs are seated properly
  • Tighten screws evenly

Do NOT force the plate into position.

Step 5: Mount the Red Dot Sight

Now install the optic:

  • Place optic onto mounting surface
  • Align recoil lugs
  • Insert screws (use correct length only)
  • Apply blue thread locker (small amount)

⚠️ Do not overtighten at this stage.

Step 6: Torque to Specification

If possible, use a torque driver:

  • Typical range: 10–25 in-lbs (depends on optic)
  • Tighten evenly
  • Avoid over-torquing (can strip threads or crack optic base)

Step 7: Reassemble and Function Check

After installation:

  • Reinstall slide onto frame
  • Rack slide several times
  • Ensure no movement or looseness

Check that:

  • Optic is stable
  • No shifting or wobble
  • Controls are accessible

Step 8: Zero Your Red Dot Sight

After installation, you must zero the optic.

Recommended distances:

  • Pistols: 10–15 yards
  • Defensive use: 15 yards standard

Fire groups, adjust windage/elevation, and confirm consistency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Wrong footprint selection

Most installation failures come from mismatch (RMR vs RMSc).

❌ Over-tightening screws

This can damage optic or strip threads.

❌ Skipping thread locker

Without it, optic may shift under recoil.

❌ Not checking screw length

Too long screws can damage internal components.

Final Thoughts

Installing a red dot on a pistol is straightforward, but precision matters.

If you correctly match the footprint, torque properly, and secure the optic, you will get:

  • Faster target acquisition
  • Better shooting consistency
  • Long-term zero stability