custom VS factory: red dot slide cuts

There seems to be a lot of debate when it comes to factory vs custom pistol slide cuts for optic mounting. So, we thought we would take a minute to clear some things up and give our professional opinion backed by real world experience.

When it comes to mounting a red dot sight on a pistol slide, there are two options: factory cut and custom cut. A factory cut slide is one that has been specifically machined by the manufacturer to accept a wide range of optics and uses plates. A custom cut slide is one that has been machined by a third party, such as a gunsmith, to accept a specific red dot sight.

Custom Optic Cut

• Precision fit for specific optics

• Creating less tension on screws and electronics, as well as fewer chances of point of impact shifts

• The use of larger diameter screws, lowers your chances of screws shearing

• No intermediate adapter plate needed

• The optic sits lower on the slide for lower bore axis aiming and less hold over at closer distance shooting

• Lower overall slide weight

Factory Optic Cut

• Your slide is designed to fit a wide range of optics, resulting in a less precise fit

• Smaller diameter screws are used, they could shear off resulting in your optic falling off or hitting you in mid recoil

• Required to use and or buy an intermediate plate to fit your optic

• Heavier slide

• Optic sits higher, forcing higher bore axis aiming and more hold over at closer distance shooting

We precisely machine mill pistol slides in house for optic installation. This process is simple and can be easily booked under the gunsmithing tab .

You can save $30 on the optic cut when you purchase an optic from us. If you are unsure of what optic to mount, give us a call and we can walk you through the best optic for your needs.