Choosing the right red dot for your CZ Shadow 2 Compact depends on how you plan to use it. Whether it’s for everyday carry, a mix of self-defense and range shooting, or competitive shooting, there’s an optimal red dot for you. Because you will probably not want to have 2 or 3 red dots & switch them per occasion.
Let’s break down the most popular choices based on the purpose. Whichever way you decide to go with the red dot, keep in mind that you will always need to get a matching optics ready plate based on the footprint of the chosen red dot.
For Everyday Carry: Smaller is Better
When carrying a pistol daily, size and weight matter. You want something compact and low-profile to minimize bulk while still providing a fast aiming solution. The two most popular red dots for this purpose are:
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Holosun 507K – A small and lightweight red dot with multi reticle system that allows you to choose between 2 MOA dot, 32 MOA circle and both. Features a durable aluminum housing and long battery life.
- For this one you will need an adapter plate with Holosun K-series footprint. You can find those here: matching plate from EvoArms and from Eemann Tech.
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Vector Optics Frenzy-S 1x17x24 MOS MRS – its a bit of budget option as well, but so far we never had issues with these ones. This very red dot uses multi reticle system as well, allowing you to choose between 3 MOA dot, 40 MOA circle and combination of both.
- For this red dot you will need different plate - one that features the Shield RMSc footprint. We have few of those plates with this required footprint - plate from CZ, plate from Eemann Tech.
If your priority is comfortable carry and quick target acquisition, these compact options are the way to go.
For Versatile Use: Range & Self-Defense
If you want a red dot that performs well both at the range and in a defensive situation, you’ll need something slightly larger than EDC optics but still compact enough for practical use. The top choice in this segment is Holosun 507C:
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Holosun 507C – Small and lightweight optic made of durable alu housing. Offers everything the 407C does but adds a multi-reticle system, allowing you to switch between a 2 MOA dot, a 32 MOA circle, or both for different shooting scenarios.
- It uses the Trijicon RMR footprint,so you will need to get a plate with Trijicon RMR footprint standard - for example this plate from CZ, or this plate from EvoArms.
These models are a great balance between size, durability, and usability for both training and defensive applications.
For Competitive Shooting: Maximum Performance
If your main goal is competition shooting, you’ll want a red dot with a large window for fast target acquisition and minimal obstructions. The clear winner here is:
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Holosun 507Comp – Specifically designed for competition shooters, this optic features a massive sight window and a multi-reticle system with multiple aiming options, making it easier to track moving targets and engage quickly.
- Similar to 507C, this red dot also uses the RMR footprint - thus you will need any of the following plates: plate from CZ, plate from EvoArms or plate from Eemann Tech.
This is the go-to red dot for speed and precision, giving you every possible advantage in a competition setting.
Final Thoughts
When choosing a red dot for your CZ Shadow 2 Compact, consider how you’ll be using the gun.
The red dots listed above are the most popular. That does not mean they are the ultimate best selection bla bla list. Its just what people buy the most.
So keep that in mind and if you have good experience with another red dot, dont be afraid to use it on your Shadow 2 Compact too. Just make sure to get the right plate with matching footprint - we have them all listed here: CZ Shadow 2 Compact optics ready plates.