Introduction
The Glock 43X MOS is more than just a handgun; it’s a statement. A statement of intent for concealed carry, personal defense, and everyday readiness. The slim profile, reliable performance, and Glock’s legendary reputation have made it a top choice for those prioritizing discretion and capability. But there’s a way to elevate the Glock 43X MOS even further, to enhance its already impressive performance and bring your shooting to the next level: by adding a red dot sight (RDS) via direct mounting. This guide is designed to walk you through everything you need to know to successfully set up your Glock 43X MOS with a red dot sight, making it a powerhouse for personal defense and recreational shooting.
The fundamental appeal of the Glock 43X MOS lies in its balance. It’s compact enough for comfortable concealed carry, yet offers a manageable grip and the inherent reliability that defines the Glock brand. The MOS (Modular Optic System) designation is a significant advantage, as it signifies that the slide is pre-cut to accept various optic mounting plates. This allows you to tailor your pistol to your specific needs and preferences. While the Glock 43X MOS comes with a set of adapter plates for different optics, the best way to achieve the most streamlined and robust setup is through direct mounting, the topic we’ll explore in depth.
A red dot sight is a game-changer for modern firearms. The principle is simple: instead of aligning iron sights, you focus on a single red dot projected onto the lens. This drastically improves target acquisition speed and accuracy. It simplifies the aiming process, especially under stress, as you can focus on the target and the dot, rather than trying to align three points (front sight, rear sight, and target). Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or new to firearms, incorporating a red dot sight with your Glock 43X MOS will undoubtedly increase your confidence and effectiveness.
Understanding the Glock 43X MOS and Direct Mounting
The MOS system on the Glock 43X allows for easy installation of various optics. However, to truly optimize performance and retain the advantages of the Glock 43X’s slim design, the best approach is direct mounting.
The heart of the MOS system lies in its interchangeable plates. These plates, designed to accommodate different red dot footprints, can be a convenient solution but can introduce potential issues. They raise the optic above the slide, impacting the overall profile and making the pistol slightly less concealable. Adapter plates also add another potential point of failure.
Direct mounting, however, eliminates these problems. It involves attaching a red dot sight directly to the slide, typically after removing the MOS cover plate. This method provides a lower profile, making the pistol more comfortable to carry concealed and less likely to snag on clothing. More significantly, direct mounting creates a more secure and robust attachment point, as there are fewer points of potential failure.
Why direct mount on the Glock 43X MOS? For concealed carry, every millimeter counts. Direct mounting means the optic sits lower, improving concealability. The streamlined profile also minimizes the chance of the pistol printing through your clothing. Furthermore, a direct-mounted red dot is less susceptible to jarring and vibration, critical factors for a pistol carried for self-defense. With the red dot secured directly to the slide, the whole system becomes more reliable and resistant to the rigors of everyday use. The improved sight picture with a direct-mounted optic translates to quicker and more accurate shots, making it an ideal setup for self-defense scenarios.
Choosing the Right Red Dot for Your Glock 43X MOS
Selecting the right red dot sight for your Glock 43X MOS is crucial. The market is flooded with options, and finding the right one can feel daunting. Understanding the factors involved will help you make an informed decision.
Size and compatibility are prime considerations. The Glock 43X MOS has a relatively compact slide, and the optic should not be so large that it overwhelms the pistol’s profile or interferes with the ejection of spent casings. Look for optics that are specifically designed for compact pistols. The term “footprint” refers to the pattern of screw holes used to attach the optic to the slide.
The most common footprints that work well with the Glock 43X MOS include the Shield RMSc, and the Holosun K series, but make sure to verify footprint compatibility when choosing your red dot. These are designed for subcompact pistols and offer a good balance of size and functionality. Smaller optics often require the use of smaller screws, so make sure you are using the correct screws as well to prevent damage.
Beyond size, several features play a critical role in choosing your red dot. Battery life is paramount. A red dot sight with a long battery life will require fewer battery changes, increasing reliability. Brightness settings are important for varying lighting conditions. The optic should have a wide range of brightness settings to accommodate bright sunlight and low-light environments. Durability and waterproof ratings are essential for a pistol that is carried daily. You want an optic that can withstand the rigors of concealed carry, including exposure to moisture, bumps, and drops. The reticle type and size are also a matter of personal preference. Common reticle options include a simple red dot, a circle dot, or a combination of both. Choose a reticle size that you find easy to acquire and that works well for the distances you typically shoot.
The market offers a plethora of popular red dot options, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Some good options include red dots like the Holosun 507K/407K, the SIG Romeo Zero, Trijicon RMRcc and the Swampfox Sentinel. The Holosun optics are known for their excellent value and feature set, including solar charging and shake-awake technology. The SIG Romeo Zero is an affordable and lightweight option, but you may want to look at the Romeo Zero Elite or the Romeo X depending on budget. Trijicon is a trusted name in the industry, known for durability and performance. The Swampfox Sentinel, is a great option for compact pistols, offering clear glass and a compact design. Research various models and read reviews to determine which optic best suits your needs.
Budget considerations are important as well. High-quality red dot sights can be expensive, but they are an investment in your safety and effectiveness. Do your research. Compare features, and consider your budget when making your choice.
The Direct Mounting Process
Mounting a red dot directly onto your Glock 43X MOS requires a few basic tools and a little bit of patience. Following this process carefully will ensure a secure and reliable installation.
You’ll need a few essential tools. Gather a set of quality Torx wrenches, a small amount of threadlocker (Loctite or a similar product designed for firearms), and a torque wrench that is appropriate for the screw size. You’ll also need a clean workspace, a soft cloth to protect your pistol, and a good light source.
The mounting process involves several key steps. First, unload your Glock 43X MOS and ensure the chamber is empty. Remove the slide from the frame by pulling down the takedown levers on both sides of the frame. Next, remove the MOS cover plates from the slide, which are typically secured with screws. Clean the screw holes in the slide using a degreasing agent. Make sure the surfaces are free of any oils or debris, as this can impact the screws’ ability to hold properly.
Now, attach the red dot sight to the slide using the correct screws that came with the optic. Apply a small drop of threadlocker to the threads of each screw. The threadlocker will prevent the screws from loosening due to recoil. Carefully tighten the screws to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications. The torque settings are crucial, so make sure you are using a torque wrench and that you do not over-tighten the screws. This is one of the most important steps in ensuring the red dot sight stays securely in place.
With the red dot sight attached, you may choose to replace your sights. Many shooters opt for aftermarket iron sights that will co-witness with the red dot. However, depending on the height of your red dot and desired sight picture, co-witnessing may not be possible. Once everything is secure, reassemble the pistol, and you are almost ready to hit the range.
Zeroing Your Red Dot
Zeroing your red dot is essential for accurate shooting. Even the most high-quality optic is useless if it’s not properly zeroed. This process ensures that the point of impact (where your bullet strikes) matches the point of aim (where the red dot is).
The importance of zeroing cannot be overstated. Without a correctly zeroed red dot, you’ll miss your target or be forced to make significant mental adjustments. Zeroing is the foundation for accuracy.
Start the zeroing process at a distance of fifteen or twenty five yards. Set up a target with a clear aiming point. Take a stable shooting position, such as a bench rest or using a sandbag to support your pistol. Fire a small group of three to five shots. Observe the point of impact relative to your point of aim.
Adjust the red dot’s elevation and windage to bring the point of impact to the desired point of aim. Most red dots have small adjustment screws that control the elevation (up and down) and windage (left and right). Make small adjustments, and fire another group of shots to verify the change. Continue adjusting and firing until your shots consistently hit where you are aiming.
For accurate zeroing, consistency is key. Use a stable shooting position, maintain a consistent grip, and dry-fire practice to become familiar with the trigger pull. If you are having trouble, adjust in small increments; it’s better to make small, precise adjustments than large, sweeping ones.
Benefits of Direct Mounting a Red Dot on Your Glock 43X MOS
The advantages of direct mounting a red dot on your Glock 43X MOS extend beyond improved accuracy. The benefits are numerous and significant.
The most obvious benefit is improved accuracy. A red dot sight eliminates the need to align iron sights, making it much easier to acquire targets quickly and accurately. The red dot is always in focus, allowing you to concentrate on the target.
The speed with which you can acquire a target is another significant advantage. With a red dot, you can bring the pistol up and instantly see the dot on the target. This faster target acquisition time gives you a critical advantage in self-defense situations.
For concealed carry, direct mounting provides further advantages. The lower profile of the direct-mounted optic enhances concealability, making the pistol less likely to print through clothing. The secure mounting method also ensures reliability, allowing you to trust your firearm when it matters most.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Maintaining your red dot sight is essential for ensuring its longevity and performance. Regular cleaning and occasional troubleshooting will keep your optic functioning at its best.
Cleaning your red dot sight is simple. Use a soft cloth to wipe the lens and the body of the optic. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Use a cotton swab with some isopropyl alcohol to clean the reticle itself, making sure to avoid any harsh scrubbing.
Battery replacement is an essential part of red dot maintenance. Replace the battery when the dot becomes dim or disappears altogether. The process varies depending on the optic, but it’s generally straightforward, and most models have a simple battery compartment.
Occasional troubleshooting is inevitable. If the dot flickers, check the battery connections. If the dot shifts zero, inspect the mounting screws and ensure they are properly tightened. If you experience any issues, consult the manufacturer’s instructions or contact customer support.
Conclusion
Direct mounting a red dot sight on your Glock 43X MOS transforms a capable concealed carry pistol into a more accurate, faster-handling, and ultimately more effective defensive tool. This setup offers significant advantages in terms of accuracy, target acquisition, and overall reliability.
The key takeaways from this guide are straightforward. Direct mounting provides a streamlined and secure method for adding a red dot to your Glock 43X MOS. By choosing the right red dot sight, carefully mounting it, and properly zeroing it, you can unlock the full potential of your handgun. The benefits of this setup are numerous, including improved accuracy, faster target acquisition, and enhanced suitability for concealed carry.
Ultimately, the decision to add a red dot to your Glock 43X MOS is a personal one. However, by carefully considering the information in this guide and by thoroughly practicing with the setup, you can greatly improve your shooting skills and increase your confidence. The Glock 43X MOS, enhanced with a direct-mounted red dot, is a powerful combination for anyone seeking to defend themselves and practice shooting at a high level.
Direct mounting your red dot may seem intimidating at first, but following these steps will make the process much easier, allowing you to focus on improving your shooting skills.
