With a Red Dot on my 6” 686,,, it was pretty hard to miss whatever I was aiming at. Question is, if I put a Red Dot on my Ruger SP101 snub, can I expect the same ease of accuracy ?

I shoot steel with a guy that uses a red dot on his 2.5" PC 627. He frequently wins matches with it in the revolver class. I shot his gun and it is actually not really more accurate at 10 to 20 yards than my 5" PC627.

So you are saying that your 627 has the stock open sights ?

No it also has a red dot on it.

My supposition is a RDS on snub would probably be a net win.

Stating the obvious, a RDS doesn’t change the mechanical accuracy but does make various human variables less impactful. Compared to a six inch L Frame, I expect just about any snub is less forgiving and more difficult to shoot.

That said, I have used RDS on my compact and subcompact autopistols for at least seven years. RDSes are a godsend for aging eyes and have all sorts of benefits, like off axis shooting. My strong assumption is an RDS would be helpful.

However, I have yet to see a RDS on small snub nor anyone carrying such a rig. Interested going forward.

I’ve thought about putting one on my 2.5” 686-4 plus. Haven’t found the right holster.

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213th FBINA

That's the key to the question.

I like red dots on rifles but not on handguns but if you're doing it on your carry gun you simply MUST MUST MUST find the correct holster.

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Come and take it!!

Maybe I am just a contrarian but it seems counterproductive to me.

IMHO a red dot on a snub nose makes no sense at all! A snub nosed revolver (by it's nature) is a self defense gun designed to be used at short distances. Red dot sights will add weight, bulk and ultimately slow you down.

I've actually witnessed many guys slowed down by red dot sights because they are always hunting for the red dot! In a defensive "snub nosed situation" relying on red dots and other mods is disadvantageous - at least to me. Simple and routine training is much more pertinent.

When shooting a snub nosed revolver I shoot it like I'd use it in a defensive situation, NOT slow and carefully aimed. Not saying I never cock it and shoot it SA for more precise shot placement, but most times it's drawn from a holster, carefully pointed and fired DA.

That said, if it's your passion to do so - by all means go ahead............. The red dot should be as accurate as you are.

Respectfully, the question remains, will a RDS allow me to hit a 1 inch circle at 10 yards somewhat consistently, like my 6" 686. I certainly wouldn't consider a rig like that for an EDC.

I might if gun is capable of that degree of accuracy. You will only know if you sand bag the rig and see what it will do.