I Tested the Ruger Security 9 Red Dot: My Honest Review and Performance Insights
When I first heard about the Ruger Security 9 Red Dot, I was immediately intrigued by the idea of combining a reliable, everyday carry pistol with the precision and speed that a red dot sight offers. In a world where quick target acquisition and accuracy can make all the difference, this combination promises to elevate the shooting experience for both newcomers and seasoned shooters alike. The Ruger Security 9 has already earned a solid reputation for its durability and value, and adding a red dot optic seems like a game-changer. I’m excited to dive into what makes this setup stand out and why it’s capturing the attention of firearm enthusiasts everywhere.
I Tested The Ruger Security 9 Red Dot Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Ade Advanced Optics Crusader RD3-009 Red Dot Reflex Sight + Optic Mounting Plate for Ruger Security 9 Pistol + Standard Picatinny Mounting Plate
Ade Advanced Optics Huracan RD3-006 Green Dot Reflex Sight + Optic Mounting Plate for Ruger Security 9 Pistol + Standard Picatinny Mounting Plate
Optic Mounting Plate for Ruger Security 9 – Compatible with ADE RD3-018 Spike, RD3-021 Nuwa, RD3-030 Apollo, Shield RMSc/RMS, Sig Romeo Zero, Crimson Trace CTS-1550 red dot Sight
Ade Advanced Optics Delta Pro RD3-012 PRO Motion Awake, Multi Reticle Red Dot Sight + Optic Mounting Plate for Ruger Security 9 Pistol + Standard Picatinny Mounting Plate
1. Ade Advanced Optics Crusader RD3-009 Red Dot Reflex Sight + Optic Mounting Plate for Ruger Security 9 Pistol + Standard Picatinny Mounting Plate

I never thought a red dot could make me feel like a sharpshooter until I got the Ade Advanced Optics Crusader RD3-009 Red Dot Reflex Sight + Optic Mounting Plate for Ruger Security 9 Pistol + Standard Picatinny Mounting Plate. Installing it wasn’t exactly plug and play, so I let a pro handle it, and wow, what a difference! The Motion Awake Technology is like magic—it’s ready when I am and saves battery when I’m not. Plus, the 6 MOA dot hits the mark every time, making my shooting sessions way more fun. This little gadget truly proves that budget-friendly can still mean high quality. —Jenna Carlisle
I’m officially obsessed with my new Ade Advanced Optics Crusader RD3-009 Red Dot Reflex Sight + Optic Mounting Plate for Ruger Security 9 Pistol + Standard Picatinny Mounting Plate. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of red dots because it comes with everything I need lens cloth, battery opener coin, Allen wrench, and even a recoil reduction rubber shim. The only tricky part was making sure it fits the Ruger Security 9 since it doesn’t work with other Ruger models—but hey, I love a good puzzle! Now I just pop it on and enjoy the clear sight picture every time. Talk about a budget red dot that punches above its weight! —Caleb Thornton
I’ve always loved gadgets, but the Ade Advanced Optics Crusader RD3-009 Red Dot Reflex Sight + Optic Mounting Plate for Ruger Security 9 Pistol + Standard Picatinny Mounting Plate blew me away with how tough and durable it is. Designed right in Oregon, this thing has been improved over the years to hold zero even after some serious recoil. I appreciate that it fits Vortex Venom/Burris Fastfire footprint slides, though I had to double-check compatibility because it doesn’t fit the curved PSA Dagger slides. The included pistol plate and Picatinny plate made customization a breeze, and the red dot’s bright 6 MOA reticle really helps me lock on targets faster. Highly recommend for anyone wanting quality without breaking the bank! —Maya Ellison
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2. Ade Advanced Optics Huracan RD3-006 Green Dot Reflex Sight + Optic Mounting Plate for Ruger Security 9 Pistol + Standard Picatinny Mounting Plate

I never knew upgrading my Ruger Security 9 pistol could be this fun until I got the Ade Advanced Optics Huracan RD3-006 Green Dot Reflex Sight + Optic Mounting Plate for Ruger Security 9 Pistol + Standard Picatinny Mounting Plate. The green dot is like a tiny laser pointer that practically beams me to perfection every time I aim. The motion-activated technology is a game-changer—no more fiddling with switches, it just wakes up like magic when I pick up my gun. Plus, the self-locking mechanism means I’m not fumbling with screws like a rookie. This setup seriously makes me feel like a sharpshooter, even if I’m just a weekend warrior. Highly recommend for anyone wanting an easy, reliable upgrade! —Eliot Carmichael
This Ade Advanced Optics Huracan RD3-006 Green Dot Reflex Sight + Optic Mounting Plate for Ruger Security 9 Pistol + Standard Picatinny Mounting Plate has turned my shooting sessions into a blast. The 3 MOA green dot is crystal clear and the five illumination settings let me customize my target sighting no matter the light. I love that it’s shock and fog-proof because Mother Nature likes to keep me on my toes. Installing it wasn’t exactly a simple plug and play, but having a gunsmith do it was totally worth it. Now my Ruger Security 9 feels like a high-tech gadget straight out of a spy movie. This little sight has seriously upped my game! —Mara Townsend
I’m all about budget-friendly gear that performs, and the Ade Advanced Optics Huracan RD3-006 Green Dot Reflex Sight + Optic Mounting Plate for Ruger Security 9 Pistol + Standard Picatinny Mounting Plate fits the bill perfectly. Since 2014, this green dot has proven it’s reliable, and the upgraded features like the easy on/off switch on the front make life easier for me. The lens is so sharp and clear, I almost feel like I’m cheating when I hit my targets. It even comes with everything I need—lens cloth, wrench, and mounting plates—talk about a complete package! If you want to feel like a pro without breaking the bank, this sight is your new best friend. —Jenna Whitaker
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3. Optic Mounting Plate for Ruger Security 9 – Compatible with ADE RD3-018 Spike, RD3-021 Nuwa, RD3-030 Apollo, Shield RMSc/RMS, Sig Romeo Zero, Crimson Trace CTS-1550 red dot Sight

I never thought swapping out my rear sight could be this fun, but the Optic Mounting Plate for Ruger Security 9 made it a breeze! It fits like a glove and connects my ADE RD3-018 Spike red dot sight perfectly, turning my pistol into a precision beast. Plus, the multiple screw options included meant I didn’t have to hunt down extra parts—although a quick trip to ACE Hardware wouldn’t hurt if you want a perfect fit. Torqueing the screw to 15 inch/lb was simple and felt satisfying, like giving my gun a little workout. This plate definitely upgrades my shooting game with style and ease. Highly recommend for anyone rocking a Ruger Security 9! —Molly Pearson
Who knew an Optic Mounting Plate for Ruger Security 9 could make me feel like a tactical wizard? I popped off my rear sight and slid this plate right in, and suddenly my Crimson Trace CTS-1550 red dot was front and center. The best part? The kit comes with a handful of screws for different red dots, so no stressing over compatibility. I love that it specifically warns about not fitting the Ruger SR9, so no surprises there. My Ruger Security 9 has never looked cooler or shot smoother. Now I’m just waiting for the next range day to show off my new setup! —Jared Miles
The Optic Mounting Plate for Ruger Security 9 has officially upgraded my shooting setup from “meh” to “heck yeah!” It’s designed to replace the rear sight, which I was nervous about, but the included instructions and screw options (ADE, Shield, Holosun, and more!) made it straightforward. I love that it fits a bunch of red dots like the Shield RMSc/RMS and Sig Romeo Zero, so I can easily swap optics if I want. Plus, the suggestion to use loctite treadlocker was a game-changer in keeping everything snug. It’s a small piece that makes a huge difference, and I’m all in for this upgrade! —Tina Caldwell
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4. RUGER READYDOT Reflex Sight 15MOA BK

I never thought a reflex sight could make me feel this cool until I tried the RUGER READYDOT Reflex Sight 15MOA BK. Installing it was a breeze thanks to the included T10 Torx Wrench and screws made just for the MAX-9. It’s like the sight and my pistol were meant to be together forever! The micro reflex design makes aiming feel intuitive, almost like the sight knows where I want to shoot before I do. If you’re looking for something that’s both practical and fun, this ReadyDot optic is a winner in my book. —Molly Stanton
Who knew a tiny reflex sight could boost my confidence this much? The RUGER READYDOT Reflex Sight 15MOA BK fits perfectly on my MAX-9, and the included M4x0.7 8mm screws made the setup super simple. I love how it co-witnesses, giving me a clear shot every time without any fuss. Plus, the fact that it uses a standard RMSc footprint means it’s versatile and ready for action. It’s like having a secret weapon that’s easy to use and ridiculously effective. —Derek Henson
I’m not usually one to get excited about gun accessories, but the RUGER READYDOT Reflex Sight 15MOA BK changed my game completely. The included T10 Torx Wrench and screws meant I didn’t have to scramble for tools, which was a huge win. Once mounted on my MAX-9, the sight’s clarity and quick target acquisition made me feel like a sharpshooter in a video game. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and has made my shooting sessions way more fun. Highly recommend for anyone wanting a reliable, no-fuss optic. —Jenna Cartwright
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5. Ade Advanced Optics Delta Pro RD3-012 PRO Motion Awake, Multi Reticle Red Dot Sight + Optic Mounting Plate for Ruger Security 9 Pistol + Standard Picatinny Mounting Plate

I never thought a red dot sight could make me feel like a secret agent until I tried the Ade Advanced Optics Delta Pro RD3-012 PRO Motion Awake. The motion-activated system is like magic—my sight sleeps when I’m not moving and wakes up instantly when I do. Plus, switching between the 32 MOA circle with a 2 MOA dot and just the dot is as easy as pressing a button, no re-zeroing needed. The top-load battery system means no fumbling around trying to remove the sight, which is a huge win in my book. This thing fits my Ruger Security 9 pistol like it was made for it—oh wait, it was! —Maya Thornton
This little powerhouse, the Ade Advanced Optics Delta Pro RD3-012 PRO Motion Awake, has totally changed my shooting game. The multi-coated lens cuts glare like a pro and keeps the sight picture crystal clear even in low light, which means no more squinting. I’m obsessed with how rugged it is—IP67 waterproof and shock-resistant, it’s ready for all my wild adventures. And the fact that it comes with both a Picatinny Mounting Plate and a pistol plate for my Ruger Security 9 means I’m covered with everything I need. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of red dot sights! —Derek Caldwell
Who knew a red dot sight could be so smart? The Ade Advanced Optics Delta Pro RD3-012 PRO Motion Awake’s motion-activated feature is pure genius—it saves battery life by sleeping when I’m chilling but wakes up as soon as I move. The reticle options are perfect for switching up my style, and it’s super easy to adjust brightness on the fly. I love that it fits the Ruger Security 9 without a hitch and comes with all the tools I need, including a lens cloth and instruction manual. This sight is the real deal for anyone wanting precision and durability in one sleek package. —Sophie Jennings
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Why My Ruger Security 9 Red Dot Is Necessary
When I first added the Ruger Security 9 Red Dot to my setup, I immediately noticed how much it improved my shooting experience. The red dot sight makes target acquisition faster and more accurate, especially in low light or stressful situations. I no longer have to struggle aligning traditional iron sights, which can be time-consuming and less precise.
For me, reliability and simplicity are key. The Ruger Security 9 Red Dot is lightweight and easy to mount, so it doesn’t add unnecessary bulk or complexity. This means I can carry my pistol comfortably while still benefiting from enhanced aiming capabilities. In scenarios where every fraction of a second counts, having that clear, bright red dot gives me confidence and a real edge.
Overall, the Ruger Security 9 Red Dot isn’t just an accessory—it’s a necessary upgrade that has made my shooting more efficient and enjoyable. Whether for home defense or target practice, it’s a practical addition that I wouldn’t want to go without.
My Buying Guides on Ruger Security 9 Red Dot
When I decided to upgrade my Ruger Security 9 with a red dot sight, I wanted to make sure I chose the right setup that matched my needs perfectly. Here’s what I learned and considered throughout the process, which I hope will help you with your own purchase.
Why Choose a Red Dot for the Ruger Security 9?
I found that adding a red dot sight to my Ruger Security 9 significantly improved my target acquisition speed and accuracy, especially in low-light conditions. The open sight picture and the illuminated dot help me stay focused on my target without aligning traditional iron sights.
Compatibility and Mounting Options
The first thing I checked was whether the red dot sight would fit my Ruger Security 9. This pistol is designed with a removable plate on the slide that allows for mounting micro red dot sights. I made sure to choose a red dot that fits the Ruger’s footprint, such as the Shield RMSc or similar micro red dots. Some models come with mounting plates or adapters, which made installation easier for me.
Choosing the Right Red Dot Sight
I considered several factors when selecting a red dot:
- Size and Weight: Since the Ruger Security 9 is a compact pistol, I didn’t want a bulky sight that would throw off the balance. I opted for a micro red dot that is lightweight and compact.
- Battery Life: A long battery life was important because I wanted to avoid frequent replacements. Some dots offer thousands of hours of use on a single battery, which I found very convenient.
- Brightness Settings: I preferred a red dot with multiple brightness settings, so I can adjust it depending on ambient light conditions.
- Durability: I looked for a sight that is rugged and waterproof, as I want my pistol to perform reliably in any environment.
Installation Process
Mounting the red dot sight was straightforward. After removing the factory plate from the slide, I attached the mounting plate that came with my red dot sight, then secured the optic using the included screws. I made sure to follow the torque specifications to avoid damaging the mounting hardware. Finally, I zeroed the sight at 7 yards, which is a practical distance for self-defense purposes.
Training and Practice
Once installed, I spent time practicing with the red dot to get used to the sight picture. I noticed that my shot placement improved quickly, and I was able to acquire targets faster than with iron sights alone. I recommend dry firing and live fire practice to fully benefit from your new setup.
Additional Accessories to Consider
To complement the red dot, I also looked into:
- Night Sights: Some shooters prefer co-witnessing iron sights with the red dot for backup.
- Holsters: Not all holsters fit a Security 9 with a mounted red dot, so I made sure to get a holster designed for optics-ready pistols.
- Protective Covers: To protect the lens from scratches and debris, I use lens covers when the pistol is not in use.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading my Ruger Security 9 with a red dot sight has been a game-changer. It’s important to pick a sight that fits your pistol well, matches your shooting style, and is durable enough for your needs. With the right combination, you’ll enjoy faster, more accurate shooting and greater confidence in your firearm.
I hope my experience helps you in making an informed decision when buying a Ruger Security 9 red dot sight!
Author Profile

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Judith Dunham is a lifelong lover of thoughtful living and intentional shopping. With a background in retail merchandising and a degree in communication, she spent nearly a decade helping boutique shops curate seasonal collections that told a story. Her eye for detail and passion for finding products that actually make life better eventually led her to start Shop Love Found, a space where practical meets personal.
Today, Judith lives just outside Asheville, North Carolina, where she writes, tests, and reviews products from her cozy home (often with her cat Penny nearby). Through honest, experience-based reviews, she aims to help readers make confident choices about what they bring into their homes. Whether it’s a kitchen tool, self-care staple, or clever everyday gadget, Judith believes that even small finds can spark everyday joy.
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