By AmmoLand Staff - July 2025

Making the switch from traditional iron sights to a red dot optic can feel a bit overwhelming at first. If you’re used to lining up front and rear sights, suddenly relying on a glowing dot for quick target acquisition might throw you off your game. But don’t sweat it! With a bit of practice using the right drills, you’ll be running your red dot like a pro in no time.

Why Train with Red Dot Drills?

Red dot sights are game changers for shooters who want faster, more accurate shots—whether you’re out on the range, in tactical training, or enjoying some outdoor shooting fun. The key is building muscle memory and confidence so your eyes, hands, and the dot all sync up naturally. These drills are designed to help you do just that, making your transition smooth and effective.

1. Dot Acquisition Drill

Start by practicing bringing your pistol up and finding the red dot quickly. Set up a target at close range and take your time—focus on picking up the dot immediately as you raise your gun. This drill helps your brain get used to the new sight picture and speeds up your target acquisition.

2. Controlled Pair Drill

Once you’re comfy acquiring the dot, move on to controlled pairs. Fire two shots in quick succession while keeping the dot steady on target. This drill improves your trigger control and helps prevent the dot from bouncing off the bullseye between shots.

3. Transition Drill

Practice switching between your iron sights and the red dot quickly. This is great for shooters who want the flexibility to use both or have irons as a backup. Set up two targets side-by-side and alternate aiming with irons and red dot, firing one shot at each. It’s a fantastic way to build versatility.

4. Movement and Engagement Drill

Red dots shine