When the topic of durable, high-quality, pistol red dot sights* comes up, that conversation always includes the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro, and for good reason. For one, it's a U.S.-made Leupold product, which always has, and always will mean something. Another is that the DeltaPoint Pro (DPP) has actually been around - in one iteration or another - and evolving for many years.
After a lifetime of iron sight adherence, I have spent the better part of the last two years trying to become familiar, and somewhat proficient, with red dot sights. I've never been afraid of technology with firearms, but for many years I'd had a reluctance to embrace slide-mounted optics. Concerns over battery life, mounting options, durability, the learning curve, holster options, slide cuts...the list goes on.
Like you probably are, I'm over those concerns. I am a believer.
It wasn't long ago where there were only a few reputable choices for a reliable RDS systems for pistols, and the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro was near or at the top of the list. Now there are several choices from many top brands, and the DeltaPoint Pro is still near or at the top of the list.
All of that said, this was the first extended experience I've had with the DeltaPoint Pro specifically. My host pistol is a Smith & Wesson Performance Center M&P M2.0 C.O.R.E. Pro Series 5" Barrel 9mm. The pistol is "optics-ready" with suppressor-height sights and includes multiple mounting plates.
Out of the box, it is apparent that the DeltaPoint Pro is a premium product. Leupold includes a CR2032 battery, installation wrench, screws, rubberized optic cover and a set of very detailed, yet clear instructions. For my host pistol, it was simply a matter of locating the correct mounting plate, and I was ready to install the product. Factory-milled slides are a gamechanger for sure, but the DPP can be mounted in a variety of different ways depending on your application.
It is important to note that the DPP has a unique footprint, that differs from some of the other common patterns - notably with front "cleats."
Battery installation/replacement is very easy, from the top with a short lever, and once installed, can be done without removing the optic. This is a nice feature.
Once installed on the C.O.R.E., three things about the DeltaPoint Pro were immediately apparent:
As I've become more and more used to red dot sights with a smaller perceived window, the DeltaPoint Pro felt like I was looking through a literal window. As my eyes age, and focus becomes more and more of a challenge, this is a massive benefit. Especially since the DPP itself does not feel large or cumbersome at all.
Brightness settings on the DeltaPoint Pro take a little getting used to, and are done from the top-side, which is different that what I'm used to. I am definitely a "set it and forget it" type, so this did not prove to be a detriment to me. If you adjust your brightness settings frequently, keep this in mind. The 2.5 MOA dot feels "just right" for this application and the Leupold glass is very clear, albeit with a slight tint that seems well-suited for multiple lighting conditions.
Mentioned above, I cannot co-witness with the pistol sights for this RDS, but I could eyeball enough with dry fire and presentations to determine that I needed exactly zero adjustments before putting rounds on paper.
With that, at 15 yards, I sent the initial 10 rounds downrange. As I suspected, minimal adjustments were needed.
A few clicks was all that was needed to dial in perfectly, and several hundred dollars...I mean rounds...later, the DPP did not lose zero whatsoever.
The Leupold DeltaPoint Pro offered very few surprises. That is a positive outcome. I was expecting it to work well, be ruggedly built, and be simplistic and purposeful in use. It met all of these expectations. In fact, I liked the wide field of view and "just-right-bright" with the dot so much, that I'm sort of disappointed in myself for not already having one.
One topic not yet discussed, but is of high importance to red dot shooters is battery life. Most red dot oracles on the internet point to around the 6 month mark on the DPP, and I'm inclined to believe them. I've not had the unit long enough to comment on battery life first hand. However, the CR2032 on the DeltaPoint Pro is so easy to replace, without removal, it is a non-issue in my opinion.
Of note, however, is Leupold's Motion Sensor Technology (MST). This feature "deactivates the illumination after 5 minutes of inactivity, and as soon as movement is detected, the illumination instantly reactivates." I can confirm...(takes 5 minute break) that this does indeed work. I can also confirm that I will never "outrace" the dot and get the gun up before its already been on, waiting for me to engage. Mocking my speed.
Leupold offers the DeltaPoint Pro in 2.5 MOA and 6 MOA variants, as well as FDE and NV models, along with multiple accessories and/or mounting options.
Unless you are really lucky, you won't find a "deal" on a Leupold DeltaPoint Pro, and there is a good reason for that. It is a very high-quality, high-demand, Made-in-the-USA product. Pick your favorite online or local dealer and buy from them. Leupold's MSRP for the DPP is $449.99. ~ Gary
*Although DeltaPoint Pro applications are not limited to pistol-only, this article is focused on pistol use.
Gary Killingsworth
Gary is the Digital Manager for Gun Talk Media and is a proud “Oregunian”. A lifelong shooter, gear hound and student of the gun, he is a staunch advocate for quality, consistent training. When not trying to perfect his trigger press, Killingsworth is an avid baseball fan, bowhunter and salmon & steelhead angler.
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