Crimson Trace Rear Sight Adapter For Red Dot Review

Table of Contents

First Impressions of Crimson Trace Rear Sight Adapter For Red Dot

The Crimson Trace Rear Sight Adapter For Red Dot promises a simple and effective solution for mounting a red dot sight to a pistol without requiring extensive gunsmithing. Specifically designed for Smith & Wesson pistols, this adapter aims to utilize the existing rear sight dovetail, offering a low-profile and secure mounting platform for Crimson Trace RAD/RAD Micro red dot sights. This adapter seemed perfect when I was looking to modernize my older S&W pistol without the expensive slide milling process.

I’ve been shooting for over a decade, and the transition to red dots on pistols has been a recent but welcome change. My aging eyes appreciate the ease of target acquisition a red dot provides, but modifying some of my older firearms felt like a step too far. I considered other dovetail adapters, as well as complete slide replacements. The Crimson Trace adapter stood out because of its purported ease of installation and low profile design.

Upon unboxing, the adapter felt solid and well-machined. The Type III Hard Anodized finish appeared durable and promised good resistance to wear and tear. The weight, listed at 1 oz, was noticeably light, assuring me it wouldn’t significantly alter the balance of my pistol. I was excited to see if it lived up to its promise of a simple and reliable red dot mounting solution.

Check Best Price HERE

See on Primary Arms

Real-World Testing: Putting Crimson Trace Rear Sight Adapter For Red Dot to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local outdoor range. I mounted the Crimson Trace Rear Sight Adapter For Red Dot on my S&W M&P 9mm. Installation was straightforward, requiring only a sight pusher tool to remove the original rear sight and install the adapter. Once secured, I attached my Crimson Trace RAD Micro red dot.

The adapter held the red dot securely during firing. I ran several magazines through the pistol, focusing on maintaining a consistent grip and sight picture. The low-profile design of the adapter meant that the red dot didn’t sit too high above the bore axis.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range sessions, the Crimson Trace Rear Sight Adapter For Red Dot has proven to be a reliable mounting solution. There are no signs of loosening or shifting, even after hundreds of rounds fired. Cleaning is also simple; a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth keeps the adapter in good condition.

Compared to other mounting solutions I’ve used, this adapter is significantly easier to install and maintain. Previously, I had experience with a universal dovetail mount that proved to be less stable and required frequent adjustments. This Crimson Trace adapter simply works, and works well.

Breaking Down the Features of Crimson Trace Rear Sight Adapter For Red Dot

Specifications

The Crimson Trace Rear Sight Adapter For Red Dot boasts several key specifications:

Manufacturer: Crimson Trace
Color: Black
Finish: Type lll Hard Anodized
Gun Type: Pistol
Weight: 1 oz
Fabric/Material: 7078 Aluminum
Included Accessories: Standard mounting plates
Optic Cut: Not Applicable (uses included plates)
Gun Make: Smith & Wesson
Hand: Ambidextrous
Condition: New
Attachment Type: Dovetail
Red Dot Sights-Footprint: Crimson Trace CT RAD / RAD Micro
Mount Type: Picatinny

These specifications are critical for several reasons. The 7078 Aluminum ensures strength and lightweight properties, crucial for a pistol accessory. The Type III Hard Anodized finish provides enhanced durability and corrosion resistance, essential for withstanding harsh conditions. The dovetail attachment allows for easy installation without requiring permanent modifications to the firearm.

Performance & Functionality

The Crimson Trace Rear Sight Adapter For Red Dot performs its primary function admirably: securely mounting a red dot sight to a Smith & Wesson pistol. The adapter provides a stable platform, ensuring consistent zero retention. The low-profile design minimizes any significant changes to the pistol’s handling characteristics.

The only potential weakness lies in the compatibility. It is solely intended for Crimson Trace RAD and RAD Micro red dot sights, limiting users to these specific optics.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the adapter is clean and functional. The Crimson Trace Rear Sight Adapter For Red Dot integrates well with the overall aesthetics of the pistol. The low weight is a definite plus, ensuring that the pistol remains well-balanced and comfortable to handle.

The installation is straightforward and relatively easy, even for those with limited gunsmithing experience. A sight pusher tool is recommended, but the process is simple and intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

The robust construction of the adapter suggests excellent long-term durability. The 7078 aluminum and Type III Hard Anodized finish contribute to its resistance to wear and tear. Maintenance is minimal; regular cleaning with a soft cloth and occasional lubrication will keep it in top condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The adapter includes standard mounting plates specifically designed for Crimson Trace RAD/RAD Micro red dots. There are no other customization options available for the adapter itself. However, users can customize their pistol with aftermarket triggers, grips, and other accessories to enhance the overall shooting experience.

Pros and Cons of Crimson Trace Rear Sight Adapter For Red Dot

Pros

Easy Installation: Simple dovetail design allows for quick and straightforward mounting.
Low Profile: Keeps the red dot close to the slide, minimizing changes in handling characteristics.
Durable Construction: 7078 Aluminum and Type III Hard Anodized finish ensure long-lasting performance.
Secure Mounting Platform: Provides a stable and reliable base for Crimson Trace RAD/RAD Micro red dots.
Affordable Upgrade: Offers a cost-effective solution for adding a red dot to your pistol without permanent modifications.

Cons

Limited Compatibility: Only compatible with Crimson Trace RAD/RAD Micro red dot sights.
S&W Specific: Exclusively designed for Smith & Wesson pistols, limiting its versatility.

Who Should Buy Crimson Trace Rear Sight Adapter For Red Dot?

The Crimson Trace Rear Sight Adapter For Red Dot is perfect for Smith & Wesson pistol owners who want to add a Crimson Trace RAD or RAD Micro red dot sight without permanently modifying their firearm. This adapter is also great for budget-conscious shooters seeking an affordable and reliable red dot mounting solution. It is ideal for casual target shooters, home defense enthusiasts, and those looking to enhance their pistol’s accuracy and target acquisition speed.

This product isn’t for those who own pistols other than Smith & Wesson, or those who prefer other brands of red dot sights with different footprints. Shooters looking for a more universal mounting solution or those who prefer a co-witnessing setup might also want to explore other options.

A must-have accessory for this adapter is a quality sight pusher tool to ensure proper installation without damaging the pistol slide or the adapter itself. A set of thread-locking compound, such as Loctite, can also be beneficial to secure the mounting screws and prevent loosening during firing.

Conclusion on Crimson Trace Rear Sight Adapter For Red Dot

Overall, the Crimson Trace Rear Sight Adapter For Red Dot is a well-designed and functional accessory that delivers on its promise of providing a simple and reliable red dot mounting solution for Smith & Wesson pistols. Its ease of installation, durable construction, and low-profile design make it an excellent choice for shooters looking to upgrade their pistols without extensive modifications.

At a price of $19.49, the value proposition is undeniable. This adapter offers a cost-effective way to enhance your pistol’s capabilities and improve your shooting accuracy.

I would definitely recommend the Crimson Trace Rear Sight Adapter For Red Dot to anyone seeking a simple and affordable red dot mounting solution for their S&W pistol. If you own a Smith & Wesson and are looking to add a Crimson Trace RAD or RAD Micro red dot, this adapter is a no-brainer! Upgrade your pistol today and experience the benefits of red dot shooting!