This is it, the moment of truth. The moment you have been waiting for all season. You have tracked down this beast of an animal and now’s your chance to harvest.
Your weapon is in perfect position and your aim is steady. When you’re just about ready to find a release, you aren’t able to focus your eyes on your sight.
You search frantically for a shot on your prey with the iron sight at the tip of your firearm, but your eyes won’t cooperate. Your wannabe trophy has caught your presence and off it goes, bounding in snarky victory.
You could have been tracking it down by now, but because of a poor choice in sights you get to go home to an empty freezer. If only you would have updated and bought the best red dot sight, the one you contemplated on buying and decided you would be fine without.
*Updated 2018
So why don’t we look at ways you could have prevented this mishap.
The 5 Best Red Dot Sights
Red Dot Sight | Our Rating |
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What is a Red Dot Sight and How Do They Work?
A red dot is a sight that compliments or replaces the iron sights that inhabit your firearm. Their structure and function is made up of a piece of slightly angled glass and a light system which work by the glass reflecting the light back to you. Other types have generally the same structure and even incorporate laser pointers in their design. They typically work well in shorter-range shooting environments and also in hunting experiences that require quick target acquisitions.
Most red dots correct themselves as you move and stay in alignment with your firearm in order to zero in on a target. Due to their self-correcting nature they allow hunters to aim and shoot more quickly than they would with traditional iron sights. Also, as opposed to traditional iron sights, you do not have to rest your head on the firearm and bring the target into the cross hairs, because as long as your firearm is sighted-in properly, wherever you see the red dot that is exactly where the gun is aiming. This can be very beneficial while executing a shot, because generally greater outcomes arise when hunters are able to keep both eyes open.
Red Dot Types
There are different types of red dot sights, which all need to be highly considered when making a purchase. Some sights are designed to have a tube-like appearance and the other more preferable sights are made in a more open manner and take on a square-like shape. Hunters need to examine each type of sight before making a purchase. You need to know the quirks of each type and the differences between all three before you can make an educated purchase. There are three common types of red dot sights: laser, holographic, and reflex and all vary in many ways.
Laser Sights
These types of sights are laser pointers that are modified to withstand the recoil of a firearm. These are the least likely used of all three types, because of their nature; they need to have a clear path and need to be able to be seen by the hunter. Visibility of the laser can be extremely altered due to weather conditions such as fog and rain, and also the brightness of the day.
In result of the opposing conditions, these sights require more power than holographic or reflex sights. Because we all don’t get to hunt in woods with cut out shooting paths and sunny clear weather, these sights cause more of a hassle than anything else. Although if the conditions are in your favor this sight has the benefit of not requiring the firearm to be shouldered or brought into your line of sight, because wherever you see the dot it creates on the target that is where your ammo is heading.
Holographic Sights
Also known as holosights, these sights work by superimposing the reticle in your view through the use of a laser transmission hologram. The hologram itself is in between glass which forms a window to view through and acquire your target. The hologram is made up of a laser that is spread out by the window, or lens, and is shone back towards the shooter. These sights mostly mount on top of a firearm because of their “head up,” design and cannot be mounted as low as the iron sights. Holosights do in fact come in personal choices of shapes, or patterns, and colors, adding customization to the piece.
Reflex Sights
Most of the red dot sights fall under this type. Reflex sights work by projecting the aiming reticle forward through the objective lens which is then reflected back towards the shooter. The objective lens acts as a one way mirror and doesn’t allow a lot of light to pass through.
These sights mostly use LED’s, because of the LED’s narrow emittance output, they act ideally for this type of sight. Although this is the preferred choice, in low light conditions a tritium beta lamp is used and also a fiber optic system, that uses ambient light, can be used. These latter choices rely on a wider band of light and can alter the light passing through more than the LED version. Reflex sights also come in the, “head up,” configuration and are available in a tube-like configuration that mimics the appearance of a scope.
Size, Color & Pattern
Size, color, and pattern of the aiming reticle are other important factors to consider for each type of sight. Depending on personal preference and comfortability with these aspects can mean the difference between a trophy and another hunting fail you’ll have to make up a story for to tell your buddies.
The size of the, “dot,” you choose should give you confidence in shooting at your target. You want to make sure that the dot is neither too big nor too small in size. Depending on the game you intend to hunt should determine the size of your red dot. The size of the dot is generally measured in MOA or minutes of angle.
Red dot sights are not only made in red color, ironic isn’t it? These sights are also available in green and even blue colors. The color of you sight should be picked based on how comfortable you are with that particular color. You need to make sure that the color you choose is easily visible against your targets to ensure accuracy.
Along with the size and color, the pattern of the sight is just as equally important in the decision making process. There a various shapes that the red dot sight can take on such as, a plain dot, cross hairs, bulls eye, and a star shape which are the most commonly used. This characteristic of the sight is completely a personal preference decision and again should be determined based on whichever you feel more comfortable with using during a hunt. Below is a picture that depicts some of the different patterns, sizes, and colors available.
When choosing a sight you want make sure that you are able to use it properly to prevent any unnecessary injury towards yourself, other hunters, and the animal. You also need to treat this purchase as an investment towards your hunting. Do you want to have a profitable investment or just another building year?
Batteries or Electronic?
Reflex style sights are commonly battery powered. The aspect of purchasing any red dot sight with a battery should be highly considered. No hunter needs to pull up their weapon and try to aim, but can’t because something as simple as the battery died out on your sight. You want to be certain that the batteries are always fully charged or fairly new. Battery powered sights can be just as rewarding as electronic sights as long as they are taken care of properly.
Electronic red dot sights in the past were completely looked over in an outdoor outfitter. Reason being, the life expectancy and power were lacking. Now the reliability and efficiency are becoming more prominent as time goes on. Higher end models can even experience up to eight years of continuous use. The electronic model’s technology is always improving in resilience and endurance making many hunters take the switch. Many hunters will argue the fact of the electronic model’s overall benefits as opposed to the battery powered models.
Sights vs. Scopes
You may walk into your local hunting outfitter and see several people pondering the choice between the red dot scope and the red dot sight. You even join in and pick up one then the other, comparing how they look side by side and then eventually set them both back down and stand in front of the display scratching your head, hoping for an answer to spring forth. The entire process boils down to personal preference and what is more likely to benefit you. This is most important when collecting more hunting equipment, especially aiming aids. So let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each option.
Sights
PROS
- Great choice for shooting shorter-range, which is typical of most game hunting
- More superior accuracy at close range
- Less heavy and more versatile for quick targets
- Can be used with both eyes opened
- Optional customization available
CONS
- Not equipped with the magnification power like the scopes. Although this set back can be enhanced with add-on magnifiers
- Reduced distance can pose a problem for some hunters
- When distance becomes an issue, accuracy can falter
- Depending on quality and price, the dot can be too dim or unable to be seen due to brighter conditions
Scopes
PROS
- Magnification can have the option of different selectable strengths
- Tends to be more accurate than the sight, due to magnification, except when closer distances pose a problem
- Better accuracy elicits more confidence and shooting which is a very important factor
- Customization is also available amongst pattern, size, and color
CONS
- Heavier in design and are larger in size which ultimately takes up more space on the gun
- Eye relief distance (the minimum distance required to see through the eye piece of the scope) can pose a problem for some
- Most scopes require one eye to view, altering your awareness on the hunting grounds
Overall, you must consider both sides of each piece of equipment in order to choose the right one for you and your personal hunting experiences. Personal preference and comfortability become the main decision making ultimatums.
Red Dot Sight Reviews
Although ultimately the best red dot sight is determined by which red dot is perfect for you, here are some examples and reviews of some of the greatest red dots available.
Bushnell Trophy TR-25 Red Dot Sight
From the trusted makers of Bushnell comes a red dot sight that can be any hunter’s dream. This sight has a tube-like design that is made with both amber-bright optics, for quick distinguishing between objects, and multicoated optics that will give hunters the ultimate ability in viewing their target in low light conditions.
This particular sight doesn’t require any centering and allows the dot to follow the movement of the hunter’s eye all while staying fixated on the acquired target. It features a 100% water, fog, and shock-proof make up that is ideal for all conditions while hunting. This sight also features unlimited eye relief which in return increases consciousness in the field. It requires minimal effort to mount and is maintained by a common CR2032 battery.
For a more in-depth review on the Bushnell TRS-25 click here.
WMX Outdoor Hunting Reflex Sight
This particular sight is very versatile and can be very beneficial to all hunters. Not only is this sight a red dot but also features green dot and 4 reticle patterns and sizes. These features add endless combinations and possibilities that give the hunter a broad spectrum to choose from. This piece of equipment can come in handy when you don’t know exactly what your weather and hunting conditions will be like.
The construction of this model is very durable featuring a sturdy, yet light weight design that is water and shockproof. This reflex sight is also a very functional tubeless design that allows a wide range of view, ideal for quick acquisition of targets. This is also a very cost-effective model adding even more appeal to this product but does require that the firearm is adaptable to dovetail mounts. Overall this is a great product, with the exception of the mount requirement.
Vortex Optics StrikeFire 2
Like the previous model mentioned, this scope-like sight offers not only a red dot, but also a green dot feature. Cost-effective and highly versatile are the main highlights of this model.
With a durable design, made of aluminum, it allows for a light weight compact structure to withstand heavy recoil. With choice of color and a feature of non-critical eye relief this model allows quick shooting ability with ease. Battery life is protected with an automatic 12-hour shutdown feature that gives an average lifespan at maximum brightness of 300 hours and at minimum brightness of 6000 hours. Automatic return to the last used setting, gives the hunter the edge to always be ready when unexpected opportunities arise. This sight can really come in handy in all situations while hunting game. Due to the options available and the versatility of this model I would give it a rating of 5 out of 5 stars
Sightmark Sure Shot Reflex Sight
This reflex model is a head-up design which allows a wide field of view and quick target acquisition. This sight also offers a multi-reticle which includes four different patterns allowing ultimate control over all hunting conditions and circumstances. Although there is the option of choosing different patterns, this sight is only available in a red color.
The Sightmark Sure Shot is yet another lightweight red dot that can with stand heavy recoil and claims to stay zeroed in longer than other competitor’s models. Easy set-up and maintenance pair along with a small price tag and offer a hunter an inexpensive sustainable model to purchase.
Beileshi 3 in 1 Combo
At first glance this particular piece of hunting equipment is in fact a scope, but when seen, or explained, by the trained eye, it also features an uncommon laser sight and a red/green dot holographic sight. The laser sight can be detached and/or turned off for quick adjustment in different shooting conditions and provides a hunter with numerous ways to take down a target.
The holographic sight has a tubeless design which again adds a wider range to view the hunting grounds. With the option of a red or green colored holographic the possibilities are substantial with this model. Generally there is more popularity amongst red dot scopes, when compared to sights, and this scope in particular is perfect for someone who likes the enhanced magnification of a scope, but also enjoys the versatility and quick shooting option the sights have to offer.
If you’re anything like me, sometimes it is hard to try and mix up your hunting routine along with its equipment, but this is a perfect way to try and keep the best of both worlds. This scope is most versatile aiming aid allowing the hunter to quickly adapt to the hunting conditions at hand. This model is worth at least a 4.5 star rating because, although it is a scope, it offers the capability of adding on sights, showing how versatile and important red dot sights can be.
Overall the best sight for you should be based on what is best for your hunting conditions, what is best for your particular weapon, and what is best for your wallet. This is where things can get a little tricky, but don’t be too overwhelmed by all this information.
Your Weapon
Depending on what you are planning on using can play a major factor in what you decide to purchase. Most red dot sights are universal to many firearms. Before buying you need to make sure that your weapon is compatible with the red dot you choose to use. Different sights have different mounting systems and require certain types of hardware that may not be well-suited for you the gun. Because I don’t know exactly what you use I’ll try to cover the basics.
AR15
An AR15 is a very accurate gun all in its own, but can always use a little more help along the way. So what is the best sight for this particular machine? This gun is mainly used as a defense weapon, in which case I would personally choose the reflex red dot sight because of their quick target acquiring abilities, the easy way for the eye to adjust with the reticle, and the accuracy that accompanies the wide range view they have to offer.
AK47
Some say the AK47 is accurate enough on its own. True, very true. It is a very accurate model and mainly requires you just to load it up and start spitting the shells on the ground. But anything can be improved. There are many red dot sights that are available for the AK47. This is again a choice that needs to be made on preference. Due to this weapon being highly accurate on its own, your ability to keep it accurate will be altered by what you prefer. Many gun enthusiast of all kinds prefer the common reflex models, but there are some, due to such high accuracy, that just want a little more of something and opt for a laser sight to give this weapon a little more edge.
Shotguns
Shotguns are usually overlooked when talking about red dot sights. They generally are the guns we pull up, line up the bead, and fire, because of the spray factor of the ammo, accuracy can falter here and there, because you’re more than likely going to hit the acquired target. Although some hunters do in fact find the use of a red dot with a shot gun a very essential aspect.
Again choosing one for your particular hunting gun should be based off of preference and situation, but in any case I think that any type of red dot would be perfectly fine to use. The spray factor of a shotgun is where the real accuracy lies, but we all can have our slip up and end up injuring a target without actually harvesting. The use of a red dot can give the extra certainty when using a shotgun and can be the difference between an injured target you’ll lose and a harvested target you’ll substantially reap from.
Pistols
Most pistol owners have contemplated the idea of adding a red dot sight to their hand gun and a lot go through with the idea in the end. So where do you start if you have decided to take this leap of faith? Mini red dot sights are used with hand guns and are the same as regular red dots, only smaller to fit the hand gun. Depending on the use of the gun, the owners generally use the reflex and holographic sights when hunting with a pistol.
If the sporting competition aspect is your forte, I would recommend all three types of sights mentioned earlier and even go as far as saying the laser sight would be very beneficial in shooting competitions. Because the handgun’s accuracy can be diminished, due to a gun hand’s lack of steady aim, a red dot can extremely improve the accuracy of the pistol. Although applying a red dot may not be a telltale way to give you the trophy or bull‘s eye you have been looking for, it may get you closer to your goal when using a pistol.
.22 Pistol
A .22 pistol is one of the more common handguns used in hunting. It is a very versatile gun and can be very fun to use when out in the woods. The gun’s smaller caliber offers a quieter alternative than higher caliber firearms and less destruction when trying to harvest something you are going to be taking home for dinner. Like most common hunting firearms I again would recommend the holosight and reflex models.
Bows
Most commonly crossbows and compound bows are used while hunting. The amount of red dot sights available, for both types of bows, has become quite diverse over the years in the hunting world. There are not many sights that aren’t compatible for a bow, which give hunters a plethora of options to choose from. Before you buy a sight for your bow you want to make sure that you check with your state regulations to ensure you are an abiding hunter.
As a bow hunter accuracy is the key to harvesting. You want to make sure that your sights are dead accurate to guarantee a kill and not an injury. Red dot sights can help you feel more confident while using a bow. Red dots offer great visibility, even in low light conditions, and are able to adjust quickly and easily, allowing for maximum accuracy.
Again, you want to make sure, depending on your hunting experience and conditions, that your personal preference and comfortability play a high roll in your decision making process.
Bang for Your Buck
So you’ve done all the research you need and you decide that you are going to buy a red dot sight for your beloved firearm. You have your heart set on a particular type, pattern, size and color, but should you spend more or less cash on this acquired obsession? This is where things can get tricky. You don’t want to cheap out and get something that looks and preforms like it came from a cereal box, and yet you don’t want to have to sell your first born in order just to aim better. So how do you choose the best red dot sight for the money?
Best Red Dot Sight Under $100
A lot of hunters have the inclination that a piece of hunting equipment, like the red dot, that falls into this price range is not even worth the hassle. That is completely untrue. When looking to purchase a red dot you must consider the quality. The majority of the sights, listed above, are under $100 and are made with the best quality in mind. Although this is a common price range, with a lot of great products, just like any equipment you purchase you do have to be careful of any flaws a product has to offer.
To make your decision easier, and narrow it down to just one, this would have to be the Bushnell TRS-25. The TRS-25 red dot sight is a great choice and probably the best red dot sight under $100.
Best Red Dot Sight Under $200
Depending on what kind of hunting you plan on doing, this price range may be exactly what you are looking for. This category offers many different red dot sights that are worth this pretty chunk of change. If you are looking for different features and functions, this is the place to search.
Many of the red dots found here are more upgraded than the ones under $100. You can expect to see high definition quality in the lens and in the reticle themselves. Also, the material that makes up the sight can be more advanced than what we have seen in the previous price range. Although these gadgets do have more bells and whistles, the insistence of quality and personal preference still stands.
One of the best red dot sights under $200 is the Vortex Optics StrikeFire 2.
Wrap Up
In today’s hunting age the equipment has never been more advanced. With new technology and tactics coming out every day, hunting has been able to excel tremendously. With new things being mass produced on the market every day, you can be a little overwhelmed as to where you should even start. Remember the main goals: quality and personal preference.
When speaking red dot sights, you cannot be too stingy, but you don’t have to be Mr. Rockefeller either. You neither want to have something too large or small and you need to be able to rely on the sights’ power while hunting. Depending on the sought after game and the conditions at hand, a hunter needs to be sure that their sight fits both bills.
Now that you have all the facts, you can confidently purchase the best red dot sight for you.
