
We reviewed the Steiner MPS enclosed red dot not too long ago. In the very crowded field of pistol red dots, the MPS is among the exclusive club of virtually bomb-proof units (along with those from Trijicon and Aimpoint) at the top of the class. And like those other enclosed emitter sights, it’s a large item affixed to the top of a pistol.
Now Steiner has announced a new, more compact and lighter version of the MPS, the MPS-C. It has a smaller form factor and weighs about half that of the full-size MPS, while keeping the same 20x16mm window size. Here’s Steiner’s release . . .
Steiner Optics, the leader in high-performance sighting systems for military, law enforcement, and armed professionals, expands its pistol optics lineup with the Steiner MPS-C. Designed for today’s concealed carry users and compact-frame pistols, the MPS-C delivers the same battle-proven pedigree as the original MPS—now in a more compact RMSc footprint optimized for everyday defense.
Purpose-engineered for the demanding environments faced by law enforcement officers and protection-minded citizens alike, the MPS-C retains the same trusted internal architecture of the original optic. A fully sealed, enclosed emitter protects the optic from debris, moisture, and environmental contamination while the hard-anodized Class III aluminum housing with reinforced sidewalls provides exceptional impact resistance. At just 1.13 ounces, the MPS-C adds minimal weight to a carry pistol while maintaining Steiner’s uncompromising durability standards.

Despite its compact size—measuring just 1.46 x 1.27 x 1.08 inches—the MPS-C gives a clear, distortion-free sight picture through a protected, recessed window shielded by a thick metal shroud. The optic features a true 1x magnification and a crisp 1.6 MOA red dot, enabling fast, both-eyes-open target acquisition for close-range defensive engagements and high-stress scenarios.
User-adjustable brightness includes 12 illumination levels, with 10 visible settings for day and low-light use and two night-vision compatible modes, ensuring adaptability across lighting conditions. Powered by a CR1632 battery, the MPS-C offers an impressive 46,125 hours of continuous runtime on the lowest setting, 13,000 hours at medium brightness, and is supported by an integrated motion-sensing “shake-awake” feature and user selectable 13-hour auto off that conserves power without sacrificing readiness.
The Steiner MPS-C joins the company’s growing lineup of premium pistol optics, giving concealed carry users access to proven durability, enclosed-emitter reliability, and compact concealment performance—without compromise.
Steiner MPS-C Specifications
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- Magnification: 1x
- Footprint: RMS-C
- Reticle: 1.6 MOA red LED dot
- Brightness: 12 levels (10 day/night, 2 NV compatible)
- Weight: 1.13 oz
- Dimensions: 1.46 x 1.27 x 1.08 in
- Window Size: 20x16mm
- Housing: Hard-anodized aluminum (Class III)
- Battery: CR1632
- Battery Life: Up to 46,125 hours (lowest setting)
- Additional Features: Shake-Awake technology
- MSRP: $574.99
For more information about the new MPS-C or to locate a Steiner dealer, visit www.steiner-optics.com.

