Why Opt for a Red Dot on Your Sub 2000? Unveiling the Advantages
The Kel Tec Sub 2000. This compact, foldable carbine has gained a loyal following among gun enthusiasts. Its lightweight design and chambering in popular pistol calibers like 9mm and .40 S&W make it a versatile choice for a variety of applications. Whether you’re engaging in recreational plinking, prioritizing home defense, or exploring the backcountry, the Sub 2000 offers a unique blend of portability and firepower. But how can you truly maximize its potential? One of the most effective upgrades is the addition of a red dot sight.
This guide will delve deep into the world of red dot sights for the Kel Tec Sub 2000, exploring why they are a game-changer, outlining the key considerations when choosing the right optic, and providing recommendations to help you find the perfect fit for your specific needs and budget. We’ll break down the factors that affect performance, durability, and ease of use to help you make an informed decision.
Iron sights, the standard equipment on most firearms, are perfectly functional. However, they have limitations, especially in fast-paced or low-light scenarios. A red dot sight, on the other hand, offers a significant advantage, transforming how you acquire targets and engage them.
The first and most crucial benefit is faster target acquisition. With a red dot, your eye is immediately drawn to the illuminated dot, which is projected onto the lens. This allows you to quickly align your sight picture without the need to focus on aligning front and rear iron sights. This reduction in time can be the deciding factor in high-stress situations.
Furthermore, red dot sights excel in low-light conditions. Iron sights can be difficult to see in dim light or against dark backgrounds. The illuminated dot provides a clear aiming point, enhancing your ability to accurately engage targets when visibility is compromised. The dot’s brightness is usually adjustable, allowing you to adapt to varying ambient lighting conditions.
Accuracy is also significantly improved, particularly at extended ranges. The simplicity of the red dot system minimizes the potential for aiming errors, such as those related to inconsistent sight alignment or parallax. With a crisp, clear dot on your target, you can achieve greater precision with each shot.
Beyond the direct benefits, red dot sights also improve eye relief and field of view. You don’t need to maintain a precise distance from the optic, as the reticle appears to float in front of your target, and often provide a wider field of view than iron sights. This can be crucial for maintaining situational awareness and quickly acquiring multiple targets.
Now, let’s consider the advantages specific to the Kel Tec Sub 2000. A red dot sight enhances the carbine’s capabilities, making it a more effective tool. The ease of use translates directly to improved performance. For defense situations, this can mean the difference between success and failure.
The red dot complements the inherent portability and handling of the Sub 2000. Unlike larger magnified optics, red dots typically remain compact and lightweight, preserving the carbine’s maneuverability. They often mount directly to the existing Picatinny rail, maintaining the folded configuration.
Finally, a red dot opens up a world of customization. You can choose from a variety of brands, sizes, and features to tailor your Sub 2000 to your personal preferences. This allows you to enhance your shooting experience and fine-tune the carbine’s performance for different situations.
Navigating the Selection Process: Key Considerations
Choosing the right red dot sight for your Kel Tec Sub 2000 is an important decision. Several factors should influence your choice to ensure optimal performance and value.
Durability: Built to Last
The Sub 2000 is designed for practical applications. The sight needs to withstand the rigors of use. Durability is paramount, as your sight will be subjected to recoil, impacts, and environmental conditions.
Consider the materials used in construction. High-quality sights often utilize aircraft-grade aluminum, which provides a strong, lightweight platform. Polymer construction is also common, often favored in budget models.
Water resistance is a critical consideration. Look for sights with an IP rating to determine their level of protection against water and dust. Sights with higher IP ratings offer greater resistance to the elements, making them suitable for use in adverse weather conditions. Your investment will be protected.
Mounting Compatibility: Ensuring the Perfect Fit
The Sub 2000 is equipped with a standard Picatinny rail, which is a good starting point. Choose a sight that is specifically designed to mount on this rail or that includes a compatible mount. Ensure a secure fit for optimal performance and reliability. The ease of mounting is also a key factor, since a quick installation can reduce your time spent at the range.
The sight’s height and how it sits on the rail also matters. Ensure you can comfortably establish a good cheek weld on the stock when viewing the dot. Some sights may require a riser to achieve the optimal height.
Size and Weight: Maintaining Portability and Balance
The Sub 2000 is renowned for its compactness. Your choice should ideally maintain this portability. Larger or heavier sights can affect the carbine’s balance and handling. Consider the size and weight of the red dot and how it affects the overall feel of the rifle. Smaller and lighter optics maintain the advantage of the Sub 2000’s portability.
Battery Life: Extended Performance
Battery life is essential for any optic. A long battery life reduces the need for frequent replacements and keeps your sight functional when you need it most. Look for sights with features like automatic shut-off, which extends battery life by powering down after a period of inactivity.
Features and Functionality: Customizing Your Experience
Consider the various features that enhance performance and usability. The brightness settings are crucial. The ability to adjust the dot’s brightness to match ambient lighting conditions is necessary.
The reticle size is another important factor. Consider the size of the dot in MOA (Minute of Angle). For close-range shooting, a larger dot is often preferred for faster target acquisition. For longer ranges, a smaller dot can provide greater precision.
Adjustability is also a consideration. The ability to adjust windage and elevation allows you to fine-tune your sight for optimal accuracy.
Price Point: Finding the Right Balance
Red dot sights are available at a wide range of prices. Set a budget and research the options within that range. Consider the features, durability, and reputation of the manufacturer when making your selection. It’s essential to find a balance between cost and quality to ensure you get the best value for your investment.
Top Red Dot Recommendations
Here are three red dot sights to get you started. Note, that available stocks change frequently.
A Budget-Friendly Option: The Sig Sauer Romeo-MSR
This is a great option for those new to red dot sights or anyone looking for a cost-effective solution. The Romeo-MSR offers a reliable performance at a price point that won’t break the bank. It features a clear, bright dot, durable construction, and easy installation. Its compact size makes it an excellent match for the Sub 2000. The integrated Picatinny mount simplifies the mounting process, and its long battery life reduces maintenance.
A Mid-Range Option: The Holosun HS510C
This sight offers a combination of performance and value, making it an excellent choice for more demanding applications. The HS510C features a solar-powered system, which extends battery life and provides an extra power source in bright conditions. It has a multi-reticle system, which allows you to choose between a dot only, a circle-dot, or a circle reticle, providing versatility in different shooting scenarios. It features a durable aluminum housing and provides a wide field of view for enhanced situational awareness.
A Premium Option: The Aimpoint Micro T-2
When performance is paramount, the Aimpoint Micro T-2 sets the standard for durability, reliability, and performance. The T-2 features Aimpoint’s renowned optical clarity, which provides a crisp, clear dot in any condition. Its exceptional battery life, rugged construction, and lightweight design make it ideal for serious use. While this option carries a higher price tag, it represents a long-term investment in quality and performance.
Installation and Zeroing: A Step-by-Step Guide
Mounting a red dot on your Sub 2000 is typically straightforward. Here’s a general guide. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific sight you are using.
First, ensure your Sub 2000 is unloaded and the action is clear.
1. Attach the sight to the Picatinny rail.
2. Tighten the mounting screws securely.
3. Once the sight is mounted, you need to zero it.
Zeroing your red dot is the process of adjusting the sight so that the dot aligns with your point of impact at a specific distance. This is essential for ensuring accuracy.
1. Set up a target at your chosen zeroing distance. Typically, this is done at 25 or 50 yards.
2. Shoot a three- to five-shot group.
3. Observe where your shots are impacting relative to your point of aim.
4. Use the windage and elevation adjustments on your sight to move the dot to the point of impact.
5. Repeat the process until your shots consistently hit the intended point of aim.
Maintaining Your Investment: Care and Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.
Cleaning the lens is essential for clear visibility. Use a soft, lint-free cloth or lens cleaning solution to wipe away any dust, debris, or fingerprints.
Checking and changing batteries is crucial to prevent unexpected power loss. Keep spare batteries on hand, and replace the battery when the dot begins to dim.
Protecting the red dot from impact and the elements can extend its lifespan. Consider using a lens cover when the sight is not in use. Store the sight in a dry, protected environment.
Conclusion: Enhancing Your Shooting Experience
Adding a red dot sight to your Kel Tec Sub 2000 is a significant upgrade, increasing your shooting efficiency, accuracy, and enjoyment. We’ve discussed the key factors to consider, from durability and features to price point and mounting. The specific red dot you choose will depend on your individual needs, shooting style, and budget.
No matter which model you select, make sure to consider the features, the battery life, and the sight’s compatibility with your Kel Tec Sub 2000.
By carefully selecting the right optic, you’ll be well on your way to maximizing the potential of your Sub 2000, whether you’re plinking at the range, preparing for home defense, or venturing into the wilderness. Choose your preferred red dot, install it, zero it, and experience the difference!
