1911/2011 Red Dot Mount Guide: Universal vs Platform-Specific Options
Choosing the Right Red Dot Mount for Your 1911 or 2011
Adding a red dot sight to your 1911 or 2011 competition pistol is one of the most significant upgrades you can make for IPSC and USPSA shooting. The challenge? Finding a mount that delivers rock-solid zero retention, fits your specific platform, and works with your chosen optic without requiring expensive slide milling.
This comprehensive 1911/2011 red dot mount guide covers everything from universal multi-mount options to platform-specific solutions for STI, Staccato, Bul Armory, and SVI Infinity pistols. Whether you're building an Open Division race gun or adding optics to a Limited pistol, you'll find the right mounting solution here.
Quick Links: Universal 1911/2011 Red Dot Mount | Bul Armory Specific Mount | SVI Infinity Mount
Why Mount Selection Matters
Not all red dot mounts are created equal. A poorly designed or improperly fitted mount can cause:
- Zero Shift: Movement under recoil means constant re-zeroing and inconsistent performance
- Optic Damage: Loose mounts can destroy expensive red dot sights
- Reliability Issues: Interference with slide function causes malfunctions at the worst moments
- Lost Matches: Equipment failures cost stages and overall placement
Quality mounts like those from Boss Components are precision CNC-machined from billet aluminium, hard-anodized for durability, and designed specifically for competition use where reliability is non-negotiable.
Red Dot Mount Options for 1911/2011 Platforms
Universal 1911/2011 Red Dot Scope Multi Mount
The 1911/2011 Red Dot Scope Multi Mount is the most versatile option, designed to fit ALL 1911 and 2011 platforms from ALL manufacturers. This is the go-to choice for shooters who want one mount that works across multiple pistols or who own less common platforms.
Compatible Platforms:
- Colt 1911 (all models)
- Springfield 1911
- Kimber 1911
- STI 2011
- Staccato (all models)
- Bul Armory SAS II / TAC
- SVI Infinity
- Rock Island 1911/2011
- All 1911/2011 clones
Compatible Red Dot Sights:
- Trijicon RMR / RMRcc / SRO
- Holosun 407C / 507C / 508T / 507K
- Leupold Delta Point Pro
- Sig Romeo 1 Pro / Romeo Zero
- Vortex Viper / Venom
- Shield RMSc
Key Features:
- Universal platform compatibility – fits all 1911/2011 pistols
- Multi-footprint design accepts all major red dot patterns
- CNC precision machined from billet aluminium
- Low profile height for optimal sight picture
- Hard-anodized finish for competition durability
Best For: Shooters with multiple 1911/2011 platforms, less common manufacturers, or anyone wanting maximum flexibility.
Bul Armory Specific Red Dot Mount
The Bul Armory 1911/2011 Red Dot Mount is engineered specifically for Bul Armory pistols, ensuring perfect fit and alignment that generic mounts can't match.
Why Choose Platform-Specific?
Bul Armory pistols have gained massive popularity in IPSC and USPSA competition, particularly the SAS II and TAC series. A mount designed specifically for Bul Armory dimensions provides:
- Optimised height for Bul Armory sight lines
- Perfect alignment with the specific slide contours
- Enhanced zero retention through precise fitment
- Reduced installation time with designed-for-platform engineering
Compatible Models: Bul Armory 1911 and 2011 pistols including SAS II, TAC, and all variants.
Best For: Dedicated Bul Armory shooters who want the best possible fit for their platform.
SVI Infinity Red Dot Mount
The SVI Infinity Red Dot Mount is designed exclusively for SVI Infinity 2011 race guns – the pinnacle of Open Division competition pistols.
Race Gun Requirements:
SVI Infinity pistols represent significant investments, and their owners demand equipment that matches their quality standards. This mount delivers:
- SVI Infinity-specific engineering for perfect alignment
- Zero-movement design for consistent accuracy under high-round-count competition
- Billet aluminium construction with hard-anodized finish
- Compatible with RMR, Holosun, Delta Point Pro, SRO, and other popular footprints
Best For: Open Division competitors with SVI Infinity race guns who demand platform-specific precision.
Red Dot Mount Comparison Table
| Feature | Universal Multi Mount | Bul Armory Mount | SVI Infinity Mount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Platform Compatibility | All 1911/2011 | Bul Armory only | SVI Infinity only |
| Optic Compatibility | All major footprints | All major footprints | All major footprints |
| Fitment Precision | Universal design | Platform-optimised | Platform-optimised |
| Material | 6061-T6 Billet Aluminium | Billet Aluminium | Billet Aluminium |
| Finish | Hard Anodized Black | Hard Anodized Black | Hard Anodized Black |
| Best For | Multiple platforms | Bul Armory owners | SVI race gun owners |
| Division Legal | Standard, Limited, Open | Standard, Limited, Open | Open Division focused |
Division Compliance for Optics
Before adding a red dot to your 1911 or 2011, verify that optics are permitted in your division:
IPSC Divisions
- Open Division: Red dots allowed – no restrictions
- Standard Division: Check current rules – optics rules have evolved
- Classic Division: Iron sights only – no optics permitted
- Production Division: Generally iron sights only (1911/2011 rarely used here)
USPSA Divisions
- Open Division: Red dots allowed – no restrictions
- Limited Division: Iron sights only traditionally (check current rules)
- Limited Optics: Red dots specifically allowed
- Single Stack: Check current rules for optics allowance
Important: Division rules change. Always verify current regulations at IPSC.org or USPSA.org before competition.
Choosing the Right Red Dot Optic
Your mount is only as good as the optic you put on it. Popular choices for 1911/2011 competition include:
Premium Options
- Trijicon RMR: The benchmark for durability. Military-proven reliability under extreme conditions. Type 2 adjustable recommended for competition.
- Trijicon SRO: Larger window than RMR, designed specifically for competition. Easier dot acquisition but slightly less rugged than RMR.
- Leupold Delta Point Pro: Large window, excellent glass clarity. Popular with Open Division shooters.
Value Options
- Holosun 507C/508T: Excellent value with features like shake-awake and solar backup. The 508T has titanium housing for enhanced durability.
- Holosun 509T: Enclosed emitter design protects from debris. Popular for harsh conditions.
- Vortex Venom/Viper: Budget-friendly entry point. Good for testing if you like shooting with optics.
All these optics are compatible with Boss Components mounts. Choose based on your budget, durability requirements, and window size preference.
Installation Guide
Installing a red dot mount on your 1911/2011 requires basic gunsmithing skills but is achievable for most shooters:
Tools Required
- Proper screwdriver or Allen key for mount screws
- Blue thread locker (Loctite 242 recommended)
- Torque wrench or screwdriver (optional but recommended)
- Cleaning supplies
Installation Steps
- Safe and Clear: Remove magazine, verify chamber is empty, remove slide from frame
- Remove Rear Sight: Most installations require removing the factory rear sight (varies by mount type)
- Clean Mounting Surface: Remove all oil and debris from the mounting area
- Install Mount: Follow mount-specific instructions for attachment
- Apply Thread Locker: Use blue Loctite on mounting screws
- Torque to Specification: Follow manufacturer recommendations (typically 15-25 in-lbs)
- Mount Optic: Attach red dot sight using provided hardware
- Zero Your Optic: Verify zero at your preferred distance
Installation Time
- First-time installation: 30-45 minutes
- Experienced installation: 15-20 minutes
- Gunsmith recommended for first-timers or if unsure
Complete Your 1911/2011 Competition Setup
A red dot mount is just one component of an optimised 1911/2011. Maximise your performance with these complementary upgrades:
Reload Speed
- 1911/2011 Extended Magazine Release – Drop magazines without breaking grip. Our #1 revenue product and essential for competition.
- STI 2011 Brass Magwell – Lightning-fast reloads plus recoil-reducing weight for Standard/Limited Division.
- STI 2011 Aluminium Magwell – Lightweight speed-focused alternative.
Magazine Performance
- STI 2011 Brass Open Magazine Base Pad – 45+ grams added weight per magazine for Open Division.
- 1911 Metalform/Dawson/Tripp Brass Base Pad – Weight addition for 1911 single-stack magazines.
- 1911 Mec-Gar/Bul Armory Brass Base Pad – Enhanced grip and weight for Mec-Gar magazines.
Control & Ergonomics
- 1911/2011 Adjustable Thumb Rest – Customisable thumb placement for personalised ergonomics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which mount should I choose – universal or platform-specific?
If you only own one platform (especially Bul Armory or SVI Infinity), choose the platform-specific mount for optimal fit. If you own multiple 1911/2011 pistols or a less common brand, the Universal Multi Mount provides the best flexibility.
Do I need to mill my slide for these mounts?
Installation requirements vary by mount type and your specific pistol. Some models may require minor slide modification – consult the product page or contact us at sales@bosscomponents.com.au for your specific configuration.
Which red dot footprint is most compatible?
RMR footprint (used by Trijicon RMR, Holosun 407C/507C/508T, and others) is the most common. All Boss Components 1911/2011 mounts accept RMR footprint optics plus other popular patterns like Delta Point Pro and SRO.
Will adding a red dot make me shoot faster?
For most shooters, yes – particularly at longer distances or on smaller targets. Red dots allow faster target acquisition and eliminate the need to align front and rear sights. However, transitioning from iron sights requires practice. Budget time for training before competition.
How do I maintain zero with my red dot?
Quality mounts maintain zero through thousands of rounds. Key factors include proper thread locker application on mounting screws, correct torque specification, and using a mount designed for your platform. Re-verify zero periodically and after any disassembly.
What's the best optic height for 1911/2011?
Lower mounts generally provide better sight picture alignment with the natural point of aim. Boss Components mounts are designed with low-profile heights optimised for 1911/2011 ergonomics.
Are these mounts legal for my division?
The mounts themselves don't affect legality – it's whether optics are permitted in your division. Open Division allows all optics. Other divisions vary. Check current rules at IPSC.org or USPSA.org.
Why Choose Boss Components Red Dot Mounts
- Competition Proven: Trusted by IPSC and USPSA shooters across Australia and internationally
- Precision Engineering: CNC-machined from billet aluminium to exact specifications
- Durable Finish: Hard-anodized coating withstands competition use
- Expert Support: Made by competitive shooters who understand your requirements
- Australian Stock: Fast shipping with local support
Ready to Add Optics to Your 1911/2011?
Transform your competition pistol with a precision red dot mount designed for reliable performance:
- Universal 1911/2011 Red Dot Mount – Fits all platforms
- Bul Armory Red Dot Mount – Platform-specific precision
- SVI Infinity Red Dot Mount – Race gun excellence
Related Articles
Continue building your 1911/2011 knowledge:
- Fitting Your Boss Components Red Dot Multi-Mount to 1911/2011
- Get Ready for Open Division with the 1911/2011 Thumb Rest
- Discover the Power of Boss Components' 1911/2011 Red Dot Scope Mount
Questions about 1911/2011 red dot mounts? Contact us at sales@bosscomponents.com.au – our team of competitive shooters can help you choose the right mount for your platform.