A dovetail mount can add a red dot without a slide cut, but the right plate depends on both your firearm’s rear-sight slot and your optic’s mounting footprint. A close-looking fit is not enough.
These 10 options cover non-MOS Glock pistols, a Smith & Wesson M&P application, and dovetail-to-Picatinny setups. Use the guide below to narrow down the mounting style before choosing a specific plate.
Best 10 Red Dot Dovetail Mounts Picks for 2026
Docter Footprint Pick
Monstrum Non-MOS Glock Dovetail Plate
- For listed non-MOS Glock models
- Accepts Docter/Noblex-footprint optics
- Rear-sight removal requires a sight pusher
Best For: Listed non-MOS Glocks with Docter/Noblex red dots
M&P Titanium Pick
DPP Non-Optics-Ready M&P Mount
- For non-optics-ready S&W M&P models
- CNC-machined 6AL4V titanium
- Hardware and tools included
Best For: Non-optics-ready M&P pistols with listed optics
RMR Footprint Pick
Monstrum Low-Profile Glock Plate
- For listed non-MOS Glock models
- Fits RMR-footprint optics
- 2 mm low-profile plate design
Best For: Listed non-MOS Glocks with RMR-footprint red dots
Glock K-Optic Pick
- For compatible non-MOS Glock dovetails
- Supports listed K-size and RMS optics
- Includes screws and installation tools
Best For: Compatible non-MOS Glocks with listed compact optics
Best for Easy Setup
7075 Dovetail Plate for Non-MOS Glocks
- Supports listed RMR-footprint optics
- Fits specified non-MOS Glock models
- Sight pusher required but not included
Best For: Listed non-MOS Glocks with compatible RMR-footprint optics
RMSc Kit Pick
TSA Dovetail Plate with Screws and Tools
- Supports listed RMSc-footprint optics
- Fits compatible Glock-style slides
- Includes assorted screws and two keys
Best For: Compatible Glock-style slides with RMSc-footprint optics
Slimline-Compatible Pick
Monstrum 7075 RMSc/K Dovetail Plate
- Lists non-MOS Glock 43X and 48 fit
- Supports RMSc and Holosun K footprints
- Includes multiple M3 screw lengths
Best For: Listed non-MOS Glocks, including 43X/48, with RMSc/K optics
Low-Profile Reflex Pick
- Fits 9–11 mm flat or round dovetails
- 0.33-inch saddle height
- For Docter-footprint micro reflex sights
Best For: A low direct mount for a compatible micro reflex sight
Rear-Sight Adapter Pick
- Replaces compatible factory rear sights
- Two Picatinny slots for rail-mounted optics
- Installation may require a gunsmith
Best For: A compatible non-optics-ready pistol with factory sights
Long-Rail Converter Pick
Bontok 11 mm-to-Picatinny Adapter
- Converts 11 mm or 3/8-inch dovetails
- 3.94-inch, nine-slot Picatinny rail
- Three locking screws and a stop pin
Best For: Flexible optic placement on a compatible dovetail rail
Docter Footprint Pick – Monstrum Non-MOS Glock Dovetail Plate
Among red dot dovetail mounts, this Monstrum plate is a specific match for listed non-MOS Glock pistols and Docter/Noblex-footprint optics, including the Vortex Venom and Viper and Burris Fastfire 2/3.
Best For: Owners of a listed non-MOS Glock who want to mount a compatible Docter/Noblex-footprint red dot in the rear-sight dovetail.
Pros:
- Fits the listed Glock 17, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 34, 35, 40, 41, 45, and 47 models.
- Hard-anodized 6061 aluminum construction.
- Backed by Monstrum’s lifetime guarantee.
Cons:
- Does not fit MOS models or Slimline Glock 43X and 48 pistols.
- Requires rear-sight removal with a sight pusher and accepts only the specified optic footprint.
Check the compatibility chart before buying: both the Glock version and optic footprint must match. The plate replaces the fixed rear sight rather than attaching to an optics-ready slide.
For Smith & Wesson M&P owners comparing red dot dovetail mounts, this DPP option pairs a one-piece, CNC-machined 6AL4V titanium plate with a black PVD finish. It is specified for non-optics-ready M&P models and select compact-optic patterns.
Best For: Non-optics-ready M&P owners using a listed optic such as a Holosun 407K/507K, EPS Carry, Shield RMS, SIG RomeoZero, or Osight K/S/SE.
Pros:
- One-piece titanium construction with a black PVD finish.
- Supports the listed Holosun, Osight, Shield, and SIG optics.
- Includes installation hardware and tools, plus alloy-steel Torx screws.
Cons:
- Specified for non-optics-ready M&P models, not every M&P configuration.
- Optic compatibility is limited to the listed models; Osight K/S/SE requires the screw kit marked “For Holosun.”
This is a targeted choice if your pistol and optic are both on the compatibility list. Verify the exact M&P configuration and use the screw set designated for your optic.
If your optic uses the RMR footprint, this Monstrum plate is one of the red dot dovetail mounts intended for listed non-MOS Glocks. It replaces the fixed rear sight and supports compatible optics including the Holosun 407C, 507C, and 508T.
Best For: Owners of a listed non-MOS Glock mounting an RMR-footprint red dot in the rear-sight dovetail.
Pros:
- Compatible with the listed Glock 17, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 34, 35, 40, 41, 45, and 47 models.
- Hard-anodized 6061 aluminum construction.
- Low-profile plate design specified at 2 mm.
Cons:
- Excludes MOS models and Slimline Glock 43X and 48 pistols.
- Requires a sight pusher to remove the rear sight; non-RMR optic footprints are not compatible.
Choose this version for an RMR-footprint optic, not a Docter/Noblex or K-pattern optic. Confirm the manufacturer’s compatibility chart before removing the rear sight.
This DPP entry in the red dot dovetail mounts category targets compatible non-MOS Glock rear-sight dovetails and listed smaller optics, including Holosun 407K/507K, EPS-series, Shield RMS/RMSc, and SIG RomeoZero models.
Best For: Owners of a compatible non-MOS Glock using one of the specified compact red dots and wanting a titanium rear-sight dovetail plate.
Pros:
- One-piece, low-profile 6AL4V titanium plate with a black chrome PVD finish.
- Includes 12 screws in four groups, a T10 wrench, and a 2.0 mm hex key.
- Custom-length alloy-steel screws have pre-applied blue threadlocker.
Cons:
- Excludes MOS pistols and the Glock 44.
- Requires the correct screw group for the optic; Osight K/S/SE uses the EPS-labeled kit.
Its included screw groups make optic matching especially important during installation. Confirm your Glock’s dovetail and your optic model before selecting the designated hardware.
Best for Easy Setup – 7075 Dovetail Plate for Non-MOS Glocks
Among red dot dovetail mounts, this 7075-T6 aluminum plate is an option for putting an RMR-footprint optic on a listed non-MOS Glock without an optics-ready slide.
Best For: Owners of compatible non-MOS Glocks using a Trijicon RMR or SRO, Holosun 407C, 507C, or 508T, or another compatible optic.
Pros:
- Fits the listed non-MOS Glock 17, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 34, 35, 40, 41, 45, and 47 models.
- Hard-anodized 7075-T6 aluminum construction.
- Includes mounting screws and wrenches; backed by a stated lifetime guarantee.
Cons:
- Does not fit MOS models or Slimline 43X/48 models.
- Rear-sight removal and installation require a sight pusher, which is not included.
Choose this plate when both your slide and optic match its fit lists. Check the seller’s compatibility image before ordering.
RMSc Kit Pick – TSA Dovetail Plate with Screws and Tools
For shoppers comparing red dot dovetail mounts for RMSc-footprint optics, this TSA plate replaces the rear-sight mounting position on compatible Glock-style slides without permanent slide modifications.
Best For: Owners of compatible non-optic-ready Glock or listed aftermarket slides who want to mount an RMSc-footprint optic.
Pros:
- Lists compatibility with Holosun 407K/507K and EPS Carry, Shield RMSc/Plus, Swampfox Sentinel, and Romeo Zero optics.
- Fits standard Glock-compatible slides and compatible aftermarket slides from the brands listed by the maker.
- Includes eight screws in assorted lengths with pre-applied threadlocker, plus an Allen key and T10 key.
Cons:
- Made for RMSc-footprint optics, so verify your optic’s footprint before buying.
- Its stated warranty lasts 30 days.
The included screw selection makes this a practical kit when your slide and optic match the stated fitment. Confirm both before installation.
Slimline-Compatible Pick – Monstrum 7075 RMSc/K Dovetail Plate
Among red dot dovetail mounts for non-MOS Glocks, this Monstrum 7075 aluminum plate stands out for including the 43X and 48 in its stated slide fit list while supporting RMSc and Holosun K-series footprints.
Best For: Owners of listed non-MOS Glock models, including the 43X and 48, pairing their slide with a compatible RMSc or Holosun K-footprint optic.
Pros:
- Lists compatibility with non-MOS Glock 17, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 34, 35, 40, 41, 43X, 45, 47, and 48 models.
- Supports RMSc and Holosun K-series optics, including listed 407K, 507K, EPS, and EPS Carry models.
- Uses 7075-grade aluminum and includes M3 screws in multiple lengths.
Cons:
- Does not fit MOS Glocks or other pistol models.
- Replacing the fixed rear sight requires a sight pusher.
This is worth considering if you need one of its listed non-MOS slide fits. Check the compatibility chart for your exact optic and use the maker’s recommended 15 in-lb torque specification.
Low-Profile Reflex Pick – UTG Super Slim RDM20
Among red dot dovetail mounts, the UTG RDM20 is a compact choice when you have a 9–11 mm flat or round dovetail rail and a compatible Docter-footprint micro reflex sight. Its 0.33-inch saddle height keeps the optic close to the rail.
Best For: Mounting a Docter-footprint micro reflex sight directly to a 9–11 mm dovetail.
Pros:
- Low 0.33-inch saddle height.
- Machined 6061-T6 aluminum with a matte black anodized finish.
- Optional recoil stop pin adds retention against bidirectional recoil.
Cons:
- Requires a compatible Docter-footprint optic; it is not a general-purpose Picatinny adapter.
- Check rail dimensions: stated fit is 9–11 mm.
Choose this for a low direct-mount setup rather than a conversion rail. The included silicone insert maintains the UTG OP3 Micro’s IPX7 waterproof rating when that sight is used.
If you’re comparing red dot dovetail mounts for a non-optics-ready pistol, this ADE plate replaces the factory rear sight in a compatible dovetail. It provides two Picatinny slots for a rail-mounted optic, plus built-in holes for certain compact-optic footprints.
Best For: Adding a red dot mounting option to a compatible non-MOS Glock or listed Canik or Taurus model with factory sights.
Pros:
- Fits standard factory rear-sight dovetails on the listed compatible pistols.
- Two Picatinny slots accept red dots equipped with a Picatinny mount.
- Built-in screw holes provide direct-mount options for specified Shield RMS/RMSc, Holosun 407K/507K, and EPS Carry footprints.
Cons:
- Does not fit MOS Glocks or Glocks with aftermarket slides; Canik and Taurus compatibility is model-specific.
- Installation is not plug-and-play; the manufacturer recommends a qualified gunsmith.
- Optics without an included Picatinny mount may need a separately purchased plate.
Verify the pistol’s factory sight and the optic’s mounting arrangement before buying. This is a rear-sight replacement, not an adapter for an 11 mm equipment rail.
For shoppers seeking red dot dovetail mounts that convert an 11 mm or 3/8-inch dovetail into a longer Picatinny mounting surface, this Bontok adapter offers a 3.94-inch, nine-slot rail. That length gives you room to position a Picatinny-mounted optic.
Best For: Converting a compatible 11 mm or 3/8-inch dovetail rail to a longer Picatinny rail.
Pros:
- Nine slots across a 3.94-inch rail allow flexible placement.
- Three built-in side locking screws secure the adapter to the rail.
- Recoil-resistant stop pin helps prevent sliding.
Cons:
- Its 0.59-inch saddle height sits higher than a direct low-profile mount.
- Requires a compatible dovetail and a Picatinny-mountable optic or optic mount.
This is the more flexible choice when rail space matters. Check both the dovetail size and your optic’s Picatinny mounting hardware before ordering.
How We Picked These Red Dot Dovetail Mounts
We focused on the fit questions that determine whether a mount is worth considering: the firearm or rail it attaches to, the optic footprint it accepts, its mounting style, and the hardware needed to secure it. The selection includes direct-fit pistol plates, a rear-sight dovetail mount, and dovetail-to-Picatinny adapters. Those categories are not interchangeable, so we treat stated compatibility as a starting point—not proof that a particular firearm-and-optic combination will fit.
Quick Comparison: Which Mounting Style Do You Need?
Direct pistol plates replace or use the rear-sight dovetail and provide a specified optic interface. Most listed Glock plates target non-MOS slides; one DPP option targets a Smith & Wesson M&P application. Check the exact pistol model and generation before ordering.
Picatinny adapters add a short rail rather than a direct optic footprint. They make sense only when the red dot has a compatible Picatinny mount and the adapter fits the host dovetail. The Bontok 11 mm-to-21 mm converter is a different type of adapter from a pistol rear-sight plate; do not assume it fits a handgun sight cut. The UTG RDM20 also warrants a close check of its specified host interface and optic fit.
Key Buying Factors for Red Dot Dovetail Mounts
Match the Host Dovetail First
“Glock-compatible” does not mean every Glock slide, and a non-MOS plate is not automatically suitable for an MOS slide. Confirm the exact model, generation, sight-cut dimensions, and any exclusions in the maker’s fit list. For an M&P or another pistol family, require an explicit match rather than relying on a similar-looking dovetail.
Verify the Optic Footprint
RMR-style and RMSc/Holosun K-style mounts are different choices. Read the plate’s supported-optic list for your exact sight, including recoil-lug layout, screw spacing, and required screw length. Do not assume an optic fits just because a similar model appears in a listing.
Consider Height and Retention
A rear-sight dovetail mount places the optic above the slide, potentially changing your sight picture and holster fit. Follow the mount and optic makers’ installation instructions for screw length, threadlocker, and torque; check for secure seating and slide clearance. If a plate needs fitting, use a qualified gunsmith rather than forcing it into the dovetail.
Who Should Buy Which Red Dot Dovetail Mounts?
Non-MOS Glock owner with an RMR-style optic: start with a Glock plate that explicitly supports that footprint and your slide model. Non-MOS Glock owner with a compact K or RMSc-style optic: compare the DPP, TSA, and Monstrum listings against the exact optic and pistol. M&P owner: investigate the M&P-specific DPP option, then verify the slide variant. Owner of a rail-mounted red dot: consider a Picatinny adapter only after confirming both host-dovetail and rail compatibility. If you have an optic-ready slide or need the lowest possible optic position, compare the slide maker’s intended plate system with a dovetail solution before buying.