So For An RDS Handgun, Wouldn't You Actually Want It Forward Of The Ejection Port?

[SteyrAUG]

Thinking about what would be my first RDS handgun and realized on a carbine it sits between the irons, why shouldn't a handgun RDS so the same? Also seems like a great place to install a picatinny rail as some others have suggested as the better mounting solution.

Seems like it would also give the shooter faster acquisition in a more forward position vs. rear of the slide. The only thing it really complicates is holsters.

[georgeib]

In one sense, I think the answer to your question is a qualified yes. However, there are other practical considerations that necessitate the current location of pistol RDS. Specifically the amount of available material on a slide, and height over bore for BUIS. As it is, placing the RDS behind the ejection port doesn't really have a deleterious effect on ejection in the vast majority of cases, so there is no practical reason to try and tackle the issues that would present themselves in trying to move the sight forward.

EDIT: Looks like I need to read more thoroughly before responding. As @Renegade04 responded below, yes the RDS does normally sit between the irons. For some reason, when I first read your post, I was thinking that you were suggesting mounting the RDS forward of the ejection port. Unless I read it as you were editing it, or something?

[SteyrAUG]

In one sense, I think the answer to your question is a qualified yes. However, there are other practical considerations that necessitate the current location of pistol RDS. Specifically the amount of available material on a slide, and height over bore for BUIS. As it is, placing the RDS behind the ejection port doesn't really have a deleterious effect on ejection in the vast majority of cases, so there is no practical reason to try and tackle the issues that would present themselves in trying to move the sight forward.

EDIT: Looks like I need to read more thoroughly before responding. As @Renegade04 responded below, yes the RDS does normally sit between the irons. For some reason, when I first read your post, I was thinking that you were suggesting mounting the RDS forward of the ejection port. Unless I read it as you were editing it, or something?

You were actually correct, I was suggesting that forward of the ejection port would be a more ideal location.

[MegademiC]

You were actually correct, I was suggesting that forward of the ejection port would be a more ideal location.

It would sit too high. You cant get it lower because of the barrel. If youre doing that, make it non-reciprocating like the uspsa open guns

[SteveL]

I've been shooting pistol mounted RDS for a few years now on a few different guns. I can't imagine how moving the dot that far forward would be better in any way. In fact, I think it would make it worse, as the farther from your wrist, the more pronounced movements would be, possibly making it more difficult to pick up the dot.

[SteyrAUG]

I've been shooting pistol mounted RDS for a few years now on a few different guns. I can't imagine how moving the dot that far forward would be better in any way. In fact, I think it would make it worse, as the farther from your wrist, the more pronounced movements would be, possibly making it more difficult to pick up the dot.

So for years with 1911s we were taught to "front sight" everything. How would a center location RDS be any more difficult to pick up than a front blade sight?

Not arguing with anyone, just thinking out loud as a though experiment. Also full disclosure, I have only shot a handful of RDS sight handguns a few times. Obviously changes presentation a bit and it was slightly more problematic than I imagined it would be.

[Renegade04]

Thinking about what would be my first RDS handgun and realized on a carbine it sits between the irons, why shouldn't a handgun RDS so the same? Also seems like a great place to install a picatinny rail as some others have suggested as the better mounting solution.

Seems like it would also give the shooter faster acquisition in a more forward position vs. rear of the slide. The only thing it really complicates is holsters.

On most handguns with a RDO, the optic does sit between the sights. There is a handful of people who have had their Glock slides milled to place the RDO at the ear and the rear sight in front of it. Personally, I am not a fan of that configuration. All of my RDO equipped pistols are set up in the traditional way. To me and many others, the rearward position in front of the rear sight is best. Here are a few examples.

[diving dave]

It really doesn't matter in use. 2 of my M&P's were milled with rear sight forward. I like it as I can rack the slide one handed using the rear sight, not the optic. It also allows for 100% of the window use in awkward shooting positions, although that doesn't happen often.

[Ron3]

I think holstering would be the #1 issue.

I have an RDS on the front of a VZ-61. Which reminds me; I need to attach a lanyard / sling to that gun.

[Inkslinger]

While a picatinny mounting solution would have some merits, I don’t think moving the sight 2 inches forward would provide any advantage. You’re already holding a handgun at arm’s length unlike a rifle that puts the sighting system closer to your eye.