Crimson Trace Crimson Trace Dovetail Black Review

First Thoughts on the Crimson Trace Crimson Trace Dovetail Black

The Crimson Trace Crimson Trace Dovetail Black is essentially an adapter, a simple yet crucial piece of kit that allows you to mount a red dot optic onto a firearm that wasn’t originally designed for one. It’s a fairly unassuming piece, but the promise it holds – improved accuracy and faster target acquisition – makes it an exciting prospect for any shooter looking to modernize their setup. Crimson Trace is a well-known name in the optics and laser aiming device world, and this dovetail adapter aims to bring their quality and reliability to a broader range of firearms.

As someone who’s been working with tactical gear for over a decade, I’ve seen firsthand how red dots have revolutionized shooting. I was particularly drawn to this adapter because I have an older pistol, a trusty sidearm that I’m very comfortable with, but it lacks the Picatinny rail necessary for mounting a modern red dot. I wanted to breathe new life into this pistol without permanently modifying it.

Upon unboxing, the Crimson Trace Crimson Trace Dovetail Black felt solid and well-machined. The black finish was even and appeared durable, and the dimensions seemed accurate based on my initial measurements. I’ve used similar dovetail adapters in the past from lesser-known brands, and the Crimson Trace adapter immediately felt like a step up in terms of build quality. While there are other options from companies like EGW or Weigand Combat, I chose this one due to Crimson Trace’s established reputation and the adapter’s straightforward design.

My first impression was positive. It seemed like a simple, well-made solution to my red dot mounting problem, and I was eager to see how it would perform on the range. It promised to transform my old reliable pistol into a modern, optic-ready platform, and that’s a prospect that definitely excites me.

Real-World Testing: Putting Crimson Trace Crimson Trace Dovetail Black to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, an outdoor facility with various target distances. I mounted the Crimson Trace Crimson Trace Dovetail Black onto my chosen pistol, attached a Crimson Trace RAD Micro Pro red dot, and began sighting in at 15 yards. The weather was slightly overcast, but visibility was good.

Installation was straightforward, though requiring a sight pusher tool would be highly recommended. Initial groups were scattered, but after a few adjustments, I was able to achieve consistent groupings within a 2-inch circle. The adapter held the red dot securely, and there was no noticeable shift in zero after the first 50 rounds. One initial issue was the screws included with the adapter did not fully tighten against my specific red dot sight, a quick trip to the hardware store solved this problem for less than $2 and some slightly shorter screws.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use and over 500 rounds fired, the Crimson Trace Crimson Trace Dovetail Black has held up admirably. There are no visible signs of wear or loosening. I have taken it through various weather conditions, and there is no rust or corrosion to be seen.

I did take the pistol with the adapter and red dot setup along on a hog hunt. It performed flawlessly in the less-than-ideal conditions, allowing for quick and accurate target acquisition in low light. Cleaning and maintenance are simple, just a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session. Compared to other dovetail adapters I’ve used, the Crimson Trace model has proven to be significantly more reliable and durable, maintaining its zero and showing no signs of loosening.

Breaking Down the Features of Crimson Trace Crimson Trace Dovetail Black

Specifications

The Crimson Trace Crimson Trace Dovetail Black is an adapter designed to allow the mounting of red dot optics onto firearms with a dovetail rear sight. Its key specifications include:

• Brand: Crimson Trace.
• Category: Bases.
• Series: Dovetail.
• Color: Black.
• Length: 12.50 inches. This seems to be a packaging dimension, not the actual adapter length.
• Height: 1.90 inches. This seems to be a packaging dimension, not the actual adapter height.
• Width: 7.0 inches. This seems to be a packaging dimension, not the actual adapter width.
• Style: Red Dot Optic Mount.
• MFG/Model: CT RAD Dovetail Mounting Kit.

The most critical specification is its compatibility with common dovetail cuts and red dot footprints like the Crimson Trace RAD series or Shield RMS footprint. This allows it to bridge the gap between older firearms and modern optics, enhancing their usability.

Performance & Functionality

The Crimson Trace Crimson Trace Dovetail Black performs its primary function exceedingly well: providing a stable and secure mounting platform for red dot optics. Accuracy is directly related to the stability of the mount, and this adapter inspires confidence. The adapter met my expectations, offering a reliable and straightforward solution.

The adapter’s design does add a small amount of height to the optic, which might require some getting used to for shooters accustomed to lower iron sights. It would be nice to have a co-witnessed sight picture with the iron sights on certain pistol models. This can be solved by replacing your factory front sight with a taller sight.

Design & Ergonomics

The adapter’s low-profile design minimizes bulk and maintains a relatively streamlined appearance. It is machined from what appears to be high-quality aluminum, contributing to its lightweight yet sturdy construction. The black finish is durable and resistant to scratches and wear.

The installation process is relatively simple, but it may require a gunsmith or someone with experience installing firearm sights, especially with hand fitting of the adapter. The learning curve is minimal once installed.

Durability & Maintenance

The Crimson Trace Crimson Trace Dovetail Black is built to last. The aluminum construction and durable finish ensure longevity even with regular use. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Crimson Trace Crimson Trace Dovetail Black primarily facilitates the use of red dot optics. It is compatible with any optic that uses a Shield RMS or Crimson Trace RAD footprint. It also does not come with any included accessories other than the necessary mounting screws. You could enhance the setup with suppressor height iron sights to co-witness with the red dot.

Pros and Cons of Crimson Trace Crimson Trace Dovetail Black

Who Should Buy Crimson Trace Crimson Trace Dovetail Black?

The Crimson Trace Crimson Trace Dovetail Black is perfect for firearm owners who want to add a red dot optic to a pistol or firearm that lacks a Picatinny rail. It is also great for shooters looking for a cost-effective and reversible way to modernize their existing firearms without permanent modifications. This dovetail adapter would also be a good fit for competitive shooters wanting faster target acquisition and improved accuracy.

Those who should skip this product include individuals who are uncomfortable with installing firearm parts or those who prefer to keep their firearms in their original configuration. Additionally, those looking for a co-witnessed sight picture with the stock iron sights might find the added height of the adapter undesirable without purchasing suppressor height sights.

A must-have accessory for this product is a sight pusher tool for easier and more precise installation. You may also require shorter screws that are the correct thread pitch for your specific red dot model.

Conclusion on Crimson Trace Crimson Trace Dovetail Black

The Crimson Trace Crimson Trace Dovetail Black is a well-made and effective adapter that allows you to mount a red dot optic on a firearm with a dovetail rear sight. It offers a stable and secure platform, enhancing accuracy and target acquisition. The price of $29.99 is more than justified considering its build quality and functionality.

I would personally recommend the Crimson Trace Crimson Trace Dovetail Black to anyone looking to modernize their older firearms without permanent modifications. It’s a simple, reliable, and affordable solution that can significantly improve your shooting experience. Upgrade your firearm today and experience the benefits of a red dot optic!