.45 Auto - Optics solutions?

[JesusCow]

I've fallen in love with the DocterOptics red dot. It looks extremely sleek and low profile. However, it's out of my price range. ($300 + mount + gunsmithing)

So, I wanted you to either convince me it's worth it. Or help me out with some other, cheaper solutions.

The B-Square mount ($75) would save gunsmithing costs, and with a cheap $60 red dot, it would be the cheapest solution I've found. I am not sure if this mount is "ring-only" or if the rings are detachable (mounted on rail). Allowing a rail mounting red dot to be used. Anyone know? I hope that made sense. I've emailed them and am waiting on a response.

What about having a gunsmith install integral rail on top of the slide, to allow mounting of a small red dot? I know I'd feel better using something like that, as opposed to the B-Square.

Anyways, any opinions on the B-Square? What are the possibilities of having a local gunsmith installing a 3/8" rail on my slide? Estimated cost?

And out of curiousity, do you prefer the tube style red-dot or the glass/plastic pane style?

This is for my full size USP .45

 

[RooK]

Do not mount an optic on a slide. The recoil motion of the slide basicly beats them to death, plus the extra weight could cause reliability problems. Whatever you go with, select a one that mounts from the frame.

As for optics, the cheaper red dots are fine to start out with, but they just can't compare to ones in the $100+ range. If you're going cheap, just get a BSA red dot for $30, then upgrade when you get the money. That way you have a cheap sight that works but won't eat up money toward a nicer one.

 

[JesusCow]

What about the DocterOptic? It states it can take 500 Gs.. is this just marketing hype?

I like the BSA red dots. What I need to know though, is if the B-Square mount allows 3/8" optics mounting and not just rings. Know what I mean?

Do I have other options of mounting besides the B-Square?

Thanks

 

[Chris Rhines]

Do not mount an optic on a slide. The recoil motion of the slide basicly beats them to death, plus the extra weight could cause reliability problems.

Half true at best. Bullseye shooters have been mounting red dot sights on their slides for years. I've personally mounted the Doctersight on several guns, all on the slide, and have not had a single sight failure.

Functioning problems from the extra weight can happen, but are easily cured by tuning the recoil spring. With a Doctersight, I doubt you'll have a problem.

- Chris

 

[colima]

I've had an Optima, which is a small red-dot similar to the Docter, on a Kimber for three years - no problems at all.

My 50-something year old eyes really appreciate it.

I'd say that concerns over beating the sight to death are unjustified.

Colima

 

[RooK]

I wouldn't mind mounting a DOCTERsight or Optima. They have few parts and very little weight to them. A cheap tube reddot? No.