What is an Optic Cut? | Precision Red Dot Mounting

Upgrade Your Firearm with Direct Milling for an Optic

What is Optic Milling?

Optic milling is a custom, precision-machined cut in the slide of your firearm. This cut allows you to securely mount a red dot or reflex sight directly onto the slide. Unlike using mounting plates, milling the slide to directly receive an optic ensures the lowest-profile, with a rock-solid fit, providing a reduced height over bore deviation and resulting in the most rugged, reliable mounting solution.

Optic milling is a popular modification for competitive shooters, CCW permit holders, law enforcement officers, and tactical operators. This is due to the unparalleled advantage it allows in tactical situations. At Kote & Dagger, we use CNC precision machining to ensure that each optic cut is consistent, press fit, and perfectly aligned for optimal performance and ultimate reliability.

Benefits of Optic Cuts

Optic cuts have become essential for modern firearm customization. Here’s why:

Faster target acquisition – With a red dot sight, you can quickly align your shot.
Low-profile fit – Direct milling creates a recessed pocket that allows your optic to sit as low as mechanically possible.
Custom optic compatibility – Custom cuts are made to fit Trijicon and Holosun patterned products. We are willing to add alternative slide and optic combinations to our lineup at the cost of extended lead times.
Durability – With a press fit, your optic will be secured safely, offering the most rugged and reliable mounting available.

We tailor the cut to your specific optic model, ensuring a tight, secure fit that stays put, even under harsh recoil.

Compatible Optics for Our Custom Cuts

At Kote & Dagger, we create optic cuts for the most popular optics on the market, including:

Trijicon – RMR / SRO / RMR CC
Holosun – C-Series, K-Series, and 509T
Leupold – DeltaPoint Pro / Sig Romeo 1 Pro
Aimpoint – Acro P-2
Vortex – Defender / Defender CCW

Don’t see your optic listed? Contact us to discuss a custom cut for your unique optic.

Our Optic Milling Process

Our process for precision optic milling is simple, efficient, and effective. Here’s how it works:

Consultation – Discuss your optic model, preferences, and goals.
CNC machining – We use CNC equipment to create a precise cut that matches your optic perfectly.
Surface finishing – Customers have the choice between:
- Certified Cerakote application (for slide or optic cut only)
- Oxide layer (for cut only)
- Raw metal finish
Inspection & testing – Every optic cut is tested for fit, alignment, and proper slide function.

👉 Check our pricing for optic cut prices or request a quote today.

Why Choose Kote & Dagger for Machining?

At Kote & Dagger, we provide more than just service — we deliver precision craftsmanship that you can count on. Our experienced gunsmiths are passionate professionals with attention to detail and expert knowledge of firearm mechanics. Here’s why you should choose us:

Precision CNC machining and laser – Our equipment ensures that each cut is clean, aligned, and within tight tolerance.
Custom designs – We customize each aspect of your project to make it truly unique.
Attention to detail – Meticulous in quality, our unwavering pursuit of perfection guarantees stunning results.
Factory-certified Cerakote applicators – Our team of experts is Cerakote factory-certified and backed by years of experience.

Pricing for Machining Services

Pricing for porting and optic cuts varies depending on the firearm and complexity of the modification. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs:

Porting: Starting at $150
Optic cut (custom for your optic): Starting at $100
Slide milling premium package: Starting at $150

👉 Request a quote | View our pricing

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the turnaround time for machining?

Our typical turnaround time is 2-3 weeks, but this can vary depending on the complexity of the work and our current workload.

Do I need to send my entire firearm or just the slide?

Optic milling – We need the slide & optic. We can make a more secure fit for your slide if we have the optic you will be using. We will return your slide with the optic mounted. You can send your firearm if you would like us to zero the optic for you as well (additional fee may apply).
Porting – We need your slide, guide rod assembly, and barrel. This allows us to ensure milling is a true one-to-one match.
Slide machining – Unless you are getting an optic cut or porting, you only need to send your factory OEM slide.

Can I combine porting and optic milling on the same firearm?

Absolutely! We offer combo packages for porting and optic milling, saving you money while maximizing performance. For combo packages (porting + optic milling), we offer discounted rates. Contact us for a personalized quote.

Do you guarantee the alignment of optic milling?

Yes! Our CNC machining process guarantees a tight, precise fit for your optic.

Ready to Upgrade Your Firearm?

If you’re ready to experience better recoil control, faster follow-up shots, and pinpoint accuracy, it’s time to get porting, optic milling, and machining from Kote & Dagger.

👉 Request a quote | View our pricing