The Ruger PC Carbine offers a fantastic balance of accuracy, durability, and versatility. After spending countless hours at the range and fine-tuning my setup, I’ve gained a wealth of experience with this platform.
But let’s cut to the chase: A great firearm deserves an equally great optic. Through rigorous testing, one Red Dot Sight truly stood out, earning its spot on my carbine. the Trijicon MRO.
Look, I’ve used a ton of optics in my time, and this one just hits the mark. I’m not talking about specs or features here; I’m talking about real-world performance.
You can trust that this article comes from a place of hands-on expertise. So, whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned shooter, you’re in good hands.
Top 6 Best Red Dot For Ruger 9mm PC9 Carbine
There are various types of Best Red Dot For Ruger PC Carbine. Each of them has its advantages and disadvantages. You must be very careful while choosing the red dot sight for Ruger 9mm PC9.
All the red dot sights included in this list will work perfectly with rugar PC9.
- Trijicon Mro 2.0
- HOLOSUN – HS510C
- Burris FastFire 3
- Vortex Optics Venom
- Sig Sauer Romeo5
| Product | KeyFeatures | Rating |
| Trijicon Mro 2.0 | Small profile Precise and bright dot 8 brightness settings Tool-less adjustments Large field of view Multi-layered glass Great battery life | 4.4 |
| HOLOSUN – HS510C | Precise and accurate Excellent battery Ambidextrous switch Shake awake feature Solar failsafe technology Easy mounting Multi- reticles IP6-7 waterproof Multi-coated glass | 4.8 |
| Burris FastFire 3 | Pinpoint Accuracy 3 MOA dot Shockproof design lightweight highly durable shockproof | 4.5 |
| Vortex Optics Venom | High Quality built Fully Multicoated Auto-Brightness Rugged and durable | 4.4 |
| Sig Sauer Romeo 5 | Versatile mounting Secure and easy mounting IP6-7 waterproof Long battery life Infinite eye relief Rechargeable battery | 4.8 |
1. Trijicon Mro – Best For large Field of view
The Trijicon MRO is a powerhouse of a red dot sight, perfect for the Ruger PC Carbine. With a large field of view, you won’t miss a beat while aiming. Boasting 8 brightness settings, you can tweak it to your heart’s content.
The tool-less adjustments are incredibly handy, making setup a snap. And the battery life? Remarkable. The multi-layered glass provides an added touch of clarity.
Its rugged construction is designed to withstand heavy recoil and other abuses without losing zero. No doubt, it’s a top-tier optic.
Why To Buy: So, you’re on the fence about splurging for the Trijicon MRO? Let me lay it out for you: This red dot sight offers a high-contrast image and a super large field of view, which is something you can’t overlook.
It’s robustly built; I’m talking about withstanding some rough handling and still keeping its zero. Its eight brightness settings give you plenty of leeway to adapt to different lighting conditions.
The tool-less adjustments are a cherry on top, making it hassle-free to dial in. It might be on the expensive side, but it’s a quality investment.
Why Not To Buy: Alright, let’s talk about the drawbacks. The main sticking point is the price. Not everyone can or wants to spend top dollar for a red dot sight.
The second issue some people notice is a faint bluish tint. Though it never bothered me, it’s there, and I’ve got to point it out.
If you’re a stickler for color accuracy, you might find this to be a small setback.
Why Should Buy: The Trijicon MRO is for the shooter who values quality and is willing to invest in it. If you’re someone who needs to quickly acquire targets at various distances, or if you frequently find yourself in diverse lighting conditions, this sight’s for you.
It’s also ideal for those who don’t want to be caught fiddling with complicated adjustments in the field.
Durability is a key factor, too; if you’re hard on your gear or plan to use your carbine in challenging environments, then this sight won’t let you down.
My Testing
In my field tests with the Ruger PC Carbine, the Trijicon MRO was a star performer. It effortlessly kept its zero, even after a series of rapid-fire sessions and a couple of accidental bumps here and there.
The large field of view made target acquisition a cinch. And let me tell you, switching between brightness settings was as smooth as butter.
Overall, I found it to be a reliable and incredibly easy-to-use addition to my setup.
Pros
- 8 brightness settings
- Tool-less adjustments
- Large field of view
- Multi-layered glass
- Excellent battery life
Cons
- Slight bluish tint
2. HOLOSUN HS510C – Best Trijicon Alternative
The Holosun HS510C is a reliable alternative to pricier options like the Trijicon MRO. This sight packs in features like an ambidextrous switch, shake-awake functionality, and solar failsafe technology.
With its multi-reticle options and IPX-7 waterproof rating, it offers a bang for your buck. The sight’s large field of view and ease of use make it a no-brainer.
The solar battery extension ensures you’re not running out of juice any time soon. Overall, it is a high-quality sight without a hefty price tag.
Why To Buy: Okay, so you’re budget-conscious but still want quality? Look no further. The Holosun HS510C brings a lot to the table without breaking the bank. Its shake-awake feature ensures it’s always ready when you are.
And hey, who doesn’t love a good solar failsafe technology? If you’re out there for extended periods, this sight has your back with longer battery life.
The easy mounting and ambidextrous switch make it super user-friendly. Plus, it’s versatile. Whether you’re a lefty or a righty, it’s easy to get along with this sight.
Why Not To Buy: Alright, let’s talk about cons. If you’re all about that high contrast, the HS510C might fall a bit short compared to the Trijicon MRO.
Another drawback is the lack of night vision capabilities. If you’re someone who needs to operate in low-light conditions frequently, this sight might not be the best fit.
Why Should Buy: So, who’s this sight for? Well, if you’re after performance and durability but don’t want to splurge too much, the HS510C is up your alley.
Great for close-range shooting and rapid holdover points, this sight is an excellent match for hobbyists and professionals alike.
If you’re using your Ruger PC Carbine for mid-range shooting or in conditions that don’t demand night vision, this is a pretty solid choice.
It’s especially good for those who don’t want to spend a ton but still want a sight that does more than just the basics.
My Testing
Putting the HS510C to the test on my Ruger PC Carbine was enlightening. It performed admirably with quick target acquisition and ease of use.
The shake awake feature? Brilliant. I found the solar failsafe technology to be a nice safety net. The sight maintained its zero, even with a few bumps here and there. No fuss with the mounting either—it was smooth sailing.
To sum it up, it did a fantastic job as a more budget-friendly alternative to the MRO.
Pros
- Ambidextrous switch
- Shake awake feature
- Solar failsafe technology
- Easy mounting
- Multi-reticles
- IPX-7 waterproof
- Multi-coated glass
Cons
- No night vision
3. Holosun 507C X2 – Solid Option
The Holosun 507c is an optic powerhouse. Its robust 7075 aluminum housing ensures durability, and its multi-coated glass lens is designed for longevity.
You’ve got 10 brightness settings and a shake-awake feature, which is an absolute game-changer. Also, it boasts a 50,000 to 100,000-hour battery life. What’s more, the IPX-6 rating ensures it’s waterproof.
And for versatility, it offers a multi-reticle system 2 MOA dots and 32 MOA circles. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of optics.
Why To Buy: Let’s get down to business. Why should you buy the Holosun 507c? Well, for starters, the shake awake feature ensures that your sight is up and running in a snap.
No one likes to fumble, right? The solar failsafe is another lifesaver. Trust me, being stranded with a dead battery is not where you want to be. With this feature, you’re good to go.
The RMR footprint compatibility? Huge plus! No extra milling is needed. It’s an all-in-one package for anyone from a weekend range-goer to a tactical pro.
Why Not To Buy: Now, let’s be honest. No product is perfect. The Holosun 507c does have a slight bluish tint, which might be an issue for some. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s something to think about.
Why Should Buy: So, who should take the plunge? If you’re someone who wants a mix of durability, functionality, and affordability, then this sight is for you.
It’s perfect for range shooting, hunting, and even tactical situations. With the RMR footprint, it fits like a glove on most firearms, making it super convenient.
If you suffer from astigmatism, the 2-night vision settings will be a boon. Simply put, if you want quality without burning a hole in your pocket, this sight should be on your list.
My Testing
I tested the Holosun 507c on my Ruger PC Carbine, and it was a joyride. The sight held zero like a champ, and the shake-awake feature didn’t disappoint.
The multi-reticle options were crisp and easy to switch between.
Even the solar failsafe kicked in when the battery was low, proving its worth. Overall, the sight performed superbly without causing any major hiccups.
Pros
- 7075 aluminum housing
- Shake awake feature
- Solar failsafe
- RMR footprint
- 10 daylight, 2-night vision settings
Cons
- Bluish tint
4. Burris FastFire 3 – Best Smallest Size Red Dot Sight
The Burris FastFire 3 is a pocket-sized red dot sight packed with features. What stands out is its weight—or lack thereof—making it perfect for your Ruger PC Carbine.
It’s got an automatic brightness sensor and options for a 3 MOA or 8 MOA dot. Windage and elevation adjustments are tool-free, and the top-loading battery compartment is super convenient. Plus, it holds up against heavy recoil.
Why To Buy: Look, if size matters to you but in the way of wanting something compact, then the Burris FastFire 3 is your go-to.
The automatic brightness sensor is fantastic for adapting to different lighting situations. The sight’s durability can withstand the recoil of a Ruger PC9, and it’s got a top-loading battery that spares you the hassle of dismounting the sight.
Speedy target acquisition? Check. It also holds zero, like a dream.
Why Not To Buy: Okay, let’s get real. The FastFire 3 doesn’t have a monster battery life. If you’re planning a long-haul shooting session or forgetting to turn off your sight is a habit, that could be problematic.
Also, while it’s great for close-range shooting, it may not be your best bet for more distant targets. It’s not a jack-of-all-trades, but that’s fine as long as you know what you’re signing up for.
Why Should Buy: If you’re the close-quarters type, whether it’s for home defense or range shooting, the FastFire 3 is right up your alley.
This sight works wonders with the Ruger PC Carbine and makes for quick target acquisition, something you’d definitely want when every second counts. It’s also great for folks who don’t want to mess with dismounting their sight just to change the battery.
My Testing
During my field tests, the FastFire 3 shone on my Ruger PC Carbine. Its compact design didn’t disrupt the gun’s balance.
The auto-brightness sensor worked like a charm, and the 8 MOA dot made target acquisition lightning-fast. The sight withstood recoil without flinching, and the zero remained intact. It was a smooth experience.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Auto brightness sensor
- Tool-free windage adjustment
- Sturdy and reliable
- Top-loading battery compartment
Cons
- Shorter battery life
- Not ideal for long-range shooting
5. Vortex Venom – Best value for money
The Vortex Optics Venom brings you durability and easy-to-use features without burning a hole in your pocket. It’s a red dot sight with an open emitter for quick target acquisition.
The top-loading battery is a winner, saving you the time and effort of removing the sight. It comes with a low Weaver/Picatinny mount, offering versatility in mounting options.
Plus, you’ve got an automatic brightness sensor that can be manually overridden, along with a choice between a 3 MOA or 6 MOA dot.
Why To Buy: So you’re hunting for value, right? The Vortex Venom is just that—a bang for your buck. The top-loading battery alone saves you so much hassle.
The automatic brightness sensor also keeps your view crisp and clear, even if the sun decides to play peek-a-boo. Trust me, you’ll appreciate the multiple brightness settings. It’s also lightweight but sturdy, ideal for those long days out.
It’s even waterproof up to 30 meters, just in case you’re into some wet and wild adventures.
Why Not To Buy: Hey, nothing’s perfect. The Vortex Venom doesn’t come with night vision compatibility. If you’re a night owl who loves those late-night hunting or range sessions, this could be a deal-breaker.
Also, while it has a good field of view, it doesn’t quite match up to some of the higher-end models out there. And let’s face it, it’s not the cheapest option around, although it does offer good value.
Why Should Buy: Are you someone who’s looking for reliability without going broke? Do you appreciate good design that’s easy to use? Then this sight is for you.
It’s particularly a good fit for folks using the Ruger PC9 9mm carbine, given its ruggedness and the fact that it handles recoil like a champ.
If you want a solid, functional red dot sight without needing night vision, you’ve found your match.
My Testing
The Vortex Venom sat snugly on my Ruger PC Carbine, proving its durability with each shot. I was particularly pleased with its open-emitter design for rapid target acquisition.
The multiple brightness settings came in handy, too. Whether it was a cloudy day or blazing sunshine, the sight adapted well.
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Automatic and manual brightness settings
- Sturdy and waterproof
- Versatile mounting options
- Rapid target acquisition
Cons
- No night vision support
6. Sig Sauer Romeo 5 – Best Affordable Optic For Rugar PC9
The Sig Sauer Romeo5 is a budget-friendly red dot sight perfect for your Ruger PC Carbine. This sight has advanced lens coating for better light transmission—ideal for low-light conditions.
It comes with an integrated mount that works well with Weaver and Picatinny rail systems. It’s also water-resistant and fog-proof.
Plus, its MOTAC technology powers the sight up upon sensing motion and powers down after 2 seconds of stillness, preserving battery life.
Why To Buy: You might think affordable means cutting corners, but not here. The Sig Romeo 5 delivers both performance and durability.
The MOTAC technology is a real battery-saver; the sight powers up when you’re in action and goes dormant when not needed.
And who doesn’t love the extra battery life, right? Its water-resistant and fog-proof qualities mean you can trust it in any weather.
Why Not To Buy: Alright, let’s spill the beans. The Romeo5 can be a bit on the bulky side. If you’re into sleek and slim, this might not be your first pick.
Also, while it offers a range of brightness settings, they might not be as sophisticated as those on higher-end models. So, if you’re a pro looking for that extra finesse in your sight, you might want to consider other options.
Why Should Buy: Are you new to gun ownership? Perhaps a budget-conscious shooter? Then this is the red dot sight for you. It’s not just affordable; it also offers quality features like MOTAC technology and compatibility with multiple rail systems.
If you’re looking to dip your toes into the world of red dot sights without emptying your wallet, the Romeo5 is a pretty solid place to start.
My Testing
When I mounted the Romeo5 on my Ruger PC Carbine, it held up well. The advanced lens coating proved valuable in lower light conditions.
The MOTAC technology was a nifty feature, keeping the sight active only when needed.
Pros
- Affordable
- Durable
- Water and fog-resistant
- MOTAC technology for battery efficiency
- Versatile brightness settings
Cons
- Slightly bulky
- Brightness settings are not as refined as in pricier models
Buying Guide
When you are looking for the best red dot sight for Ruger PC Carbine, keep these things in mind
1. Size and Weight
The size and weight of the sight are important because you don’t want something too big or too small.
Too big – it will be difficult to handle, and too small – it will be difficult to see.
The best size is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around and use. Size also affects the field of view. A larger sight will have a wider field of view, while a smaller one will have a narrower field.
Weight can also affect how the sight feels when you are using it. Heavier sights may feel more stable, but they can also be more difficult to handle. Lighter sights may be easier to handle, but they may not feel as stable.
You should decide what size and weight are best for you based on your needs and preferences.
2. Battery Life
The battery life of the sight is important because you don’t want to be constantly changing batteries. A sight with a long battery life will save you time and money in the long run.
When looking at the battery life, you should also consider how easy it is to change the battery.
Some sights have a top-loading battery, so you don’t have to remove the sight to change the battery. This can be very convenient if you are in the middle of a shooting session and your battery starts to die.
Other sights have a bottom-loading battery, which means you have to remove the sight to change the battery. This can be inconvenient, but it may be necessary if the sight is very small.
You should also consider how often you will be using the sight. If you only use it occasionally, shorter battery life may not be a big deal.
But if you are using the sight frequently, then longer battery life will be more important.
3. Dot Size
The dot size is important because it affects how easy it is to acquire the target.
A larger dot will be easier to see but may obscure some targets. A smaller dot will be more difficult to see, but it will not obscure the target.
You should decide what dot size is best for you based on your needs and preferences.
These are the three main things to consider when looking for the best red dot sight for Ruger PC Carbine. Keep these things in mind, and you will surely find the perfect sight.
Conclusion
After countless hours on the range and meticulous testing with these optics on my Ruger PC Carbine, one thing is clear: all of these sights bring something to the table, but there’s one that stands out as the top performer.
The Trijicon MRO is my undisputed top choice. Now, this isn’t just about specs; it’s about real-world shooting conditions and personal preferences.
Do you prioritize long battery life, ease of use, or maybe a broad field of view? These are things you need to consider. Every sight reviewed here offers a combination of features that meet different needs.
Budget-friendly options like the SIG Romeo5 or value-for-money picks like the Burris FastFire 3 have their merits. But when you want the best of the best for your Ruger PC Carbine, the Trijicon MRO is the way to go.
FAQ’s
What is the killing range of a carbine gun?
The M1 carbine has a practical effective range of about 200 yards.
What are the disadvantages of a carbine?
Carbines have inferior long-range accuracy and a shorter effective range compared to full-sized rifles.
What is more accurate, a carbine or a rifle?
A rifle is generally more accurate than a carbine due to the rifling in the bore.
What is the maximum effective range of the Ruger PC Carbine?
The Ruger PC Carbine has a maximum effective range of about 100 yards against man-size targets and 200 yards in target shooting.
