Top 3 pistol slide cuts for red dots / reflex sights
Adding a red dot sight to your handgun is one of the most effective upgrades you can make, but before you buy the optic, it’s important to understand the slide cut you need. The slide cut is the machined footprint on top of the slide that allows the optic to mount directly to the gun. Different red dots use different footprints, and knowing the three most common cuts will help you choose the right optic (or the right slide).
Here are the top three pistol slide cuts for red dot sights today:
1. RMR Cut
The RMR footprint is the most common slide cut in the handgun world and is often considered the industry standard. It was first introduced for the rugged and battle-proven Trijicon RMR, and many other optic manufacturers now build their sights around the same footprint.
Why it’s popular:
- Extremely durable and proven in military/LE use
- Massive aftermarket support (slides, milling, and adapters)
- Works with the Dagger Defense DDR18
Key features:
- Two mounting screw holes near the front of the optic
- Two recoil posts in the rear of the footprint
- Designed for full-size and compact pistols
2. Docter / Noblex (a.k.a Shield RMSc) Cut
The Docter footprint — sometimes referred to as the Noblex or Shield cut — has become the go-to pattern for micro-compact pistols. It’s what you’ll find on popular carry guns like the SIG P365 and Springfield Hellcat.
Why it’s popular:
- Very low profile (perfect for slim, carry-size slides)
- Major players like Shield, Holosun, Vortex, and SIG use this footprint
- Ideal for sub-compacts and micro-compacts
Key features:
- Two mounting screws in the center of the footprint
-
No recoil lugs — the optic relies on friction and the screw fit
3. DeltaPoint Pro Cut
The DeltaPoint Pro footprint is less universal than the others but remains popular because the Leupold DPP is still one of the most robust and fastest-tracking duty optics available.
Why it’s popular:
- One of the largest windows in the pistol red dot market
- Very secure mounting design with large recoil bosses
- Used by duty pistols
Key features:
- Two large recoil bosses near the front of the cut
- Two mounting screws toward the rear of the optic
- Generally used on full-size or competition-size pistols
When you’re choosing a red dot sight or having a slide milled, start by deciding which footprint matches the optic you want. The RMR cut offers the widest compatibility, the Docter/Noblex cut is king of the micro-compacts, and the DeltaPoint Pro cut is trusted by shooters who prioritize a massive window and rugged duty use.
Once you know the footprint, everything else falls into place.