Are you a gun enthusiast? If you use a gun for target practice or hunting, you probably understand that having a good sight is essential to be able to accurately hit a target. Traditional iron sights are surely effective but red dot sights offer way more speed and precision.
For those who don’t know, a red dot sight is a non-magnified, illuminated sight that can be equipped to a gun or rifle. The red dot is actually created by an LED light which reflects against a small spherical mirror and gets projected directly in user’s line of sight to facilitate aiming.
Top 10 Best Red Dot Sight Comparison Table
| Picture | Name | Features | Rating (1-5) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Field Sport Red and Green Reflex Sight with 4 Reticles | Shock & water proof 4 reticle patterns Unlimited eye relief 100% satisfaction guarantee Low price | 2.5 | $$ |
 | FieldSport Micro Red Dot Sight | Shock & water proof Unlimited eye relief Low price | 3 | $$ |
 | Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight | Amber-Bright technology Tilted lens design Unlimited eye relief Shock & water proof Low price | 3 | $$$ |
 | Sightmark SM26008 Ultra Shot Plus Red Dot Sights | Shock & water proof 4 reticle patterns Unlimited eye relief Long battery life Lifetime warranty | 3.5 | $$$ |
 | Burris 300234 Fastfire III with Picatinny Mount 3 MOA Sight (Black) | Shock & water proof Unlimited eye relief Top of sight battery access | 3.5 | $$ |
 | DD DAGGER DEFENSE Dagger Defense DDHB Red Dot sight | Shock & water proof 4 reticle patterns Unlimited eye relief Low price | 3.5 | $$$ |
 | Vortex Optics Venom Red Dot Sights | Multi-coated lens Shock, dust & water proof Unlimited eye relief Top of sight battery access Auto shut down feature | 4 | $$$ |
 | HOLOSUN HS403A Micro Red Dot Sight (2 MOA) | Motion-activated Waterproof Unlimited eye relief Tilted lens design | 4 | $$$$ |
 | Sig Sauer SOR52001 Romeo5 1x20mm Compact | Motion-activated Multi-coated lens Shock, dust, fog & water proof Unlimited eye relief | 4.5 | $$$ |
 | Trijicon RMR 6.5 MOA Adjustable LED Red Dot Sight | Housing-shape design Large dot size Multi-coated lens Unlimited eye relief Shock, dust, fog & water proof | 5 | $$$$ |
It thus functions as an accurate aim point for targets within 100 yards or even more. These sights were typically used by military but now, they are also used for recreational purposes such as hunting and paintball. Whether you are a hobbyist or a competitive speed shooter, these offer a massive tactical advantage in terms of reaction time and shooting efficiency.
People usually shell out all their money for guns and overlook accessories but red dot sight is an important one and requires closer attention. For those looking to buy one, this handy guide will be your one-stop source for information.
Here, you will find all about their types, benefits, drawbacks as well as the best models to choose from. So, stay tuned and get ready to shop the best red dot sight for your needs.
What Types of Red Dot Sights Are There?
Red dot sights come in many shapes, sizes and dot patterns. The ones with ‘tube’ style look a lot like telescopic scopes while the ones with ‘open’ style have a square-like shape. The housing of tube style sights is such that it allows the shooter to apply filters to the lens so that it’s easier to see the red dot in bright sunlight.
However, the open housing configuration consists of only the bare basics and there’s no room for filters to enhance viewing experience. Also, their sizes differ from small to large. The dot sizes are measured in MOA (minutes of angle) and 1 MOA covers roughly 1” area on a target 100 yards away.
If the dot size is too small, your eye won’t be able to pick it up fast enough and conversely, if it’s too big, the target may look obscured when shooting from large distances. A basic 3 MOA dot generally works well for an all-purpose gun.
The dot pattern or reticle is largely personal preference and has no technical significance. The pattern can be like dots, like crosshairs or even like bull’s eye. Some patterns are adjustable also so that you can have a greater variety.
Benefits of Best Red Dot Sight
If you get the best red dot sight and combine it with the best laser scopes, aiming will be as simple as placing the red dot on the target. It can also help determine your exact distance from the target. The more sophisticated red dots even offer an audio alert so that you can make the necessary adjustments to make your bullet strike the target.
With features like incremental wind and elevation adjustments, they have the capability of handling any error in aiming. This automatically saves you time and effort. Other than this, make sure that the model you choose has the features suitable for your purpose of use.
For instance, if you hunt at night, the reticle should support low light settings and have night vision compatibility. Also, the model should be compatible with the type of gun you use. Not all sights are compatible with a gun type. The best ones also have comfortable size, weight and long battery life.
A good sight can offer thousand hours of usage before the battery life diminishes. If, on the other hand, it has a short battery life, chances are that the light will go out by the time you are getting ready to aim. And this is especially common when shooting in a cold environment.
Downsides of Red Dot Sights
The only disadvantage is that most red dot sights require that the guns used should be custom cut to permit installation. This kind of work then involves extra cost on your end.
Field Sport Red and Green Reflex Sight with 4 Reticles
Measuring 3.2×1.2×2 inches and weighing 4 ounces, the Field Sport Red and Green Reflex Sight is compact and lightweight. And this is especially useful when rapid-firing moving targets, such as in shooting games. Made of high quality aircraft grade aluminum, the body is shockproof and water-resistant.
It features 4 reticles (2 red and 2 green) and 6 levels of brightness to choose from. Elevation and windage are also adjustable. It has a 24x34mm objective lens with corrected parallax and multi-coating for improved vision. This allows unlimited eye relief.
It also has a built-in Mil Spec 1913 Picatinny mount base for easy sight remounting. It is a low-cost model, so precision isn’t the best but the model has all the basic features and is ideal for beginners. Moreover, it is backed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee against manufacturer’s defect.
Pros:
- Shock & water proof
- 4 reticle patterns
- Unlimited eye relief
- 100% satisfaction guarantee
- Low price
Cons:
- Some users complained that the reticles are a bit blurry.
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FieldSport Micro Red Dot Sight
This one is almost same as above except that it features only a single red dot (no green), more brightness settings (11) and it’s relatively low-priced. At 6.4 ounces, it’s also slightly heavier than normal but at least, it feels solid. You can easily mount it in an optic system and focus with the help of a magnifier or a co-witness.
The dot is 4 MOA large and allows fast target acquisition with high precision. Going by reviews, once you’ve zeroed it in, you should be able to hold the zero much better than most mid-range models. It is the lowest priced model on our list, so if you do not want to spend much, this one is probably the best red dot sight for you.
Pros:
- Shock & water proof
- Unlimited eye relief
- Low price
Cons:
- Some users complained that the reticle is a bit blurry.
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Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight
This red dot sight from Bushnell is so compact that it’s hard to even notice if it’s attached to a rifle. It measures 2.4 inches in length and weighs just 3.7 ounces. The reticle of this device is a simple red dot measuring 3 MOA in size, which is large enough for precise shooting at ranges of up to 100 yards.
It has a 25mm objective lens, so good amount of light enters the optic. Also, because the dot’s intensity level is 11, it works excellent in low light conditions. You may not even need to use the brightest setting! The scope is engineered with Bushnell’s Amber-Bright technology. Its front lens is coated with bright amber color for improved vision.
For user’s safety, the lens is tilted in a way that the shooter’s eye can get directly exposed to the LED light source in case the glass breaks. The lens design is parallax-free. So, position of the dot looks same when viewed from different angles and there is no need for centering. Another good thing is that the LED light source is secured inside the scope with an adhesive.
However, this kind of placement partially obstructs the field of view. As this sight can be easily used with both eyes open, eye relief is unlimited. If your zero is accurate, your shots will definitely hit the target. This device not just allows for extremely fast target acquisition, it is also 100% shockproof and waterproof.
The illumination, elevation and windage – all are adjustable, which is great for hunting. It is equipped with a CR2032 battery which can last for up to 3,000 hours. Also, it is compatible with all kinds of rifles, pistols, handguns and shotguns. In a nutshell, it is a great beginner red dot sight at an affordable price.
Pros:
- Amber-Bright technology
- Tilted lens design
- Unlimited eye relief
- Shock & water proof
- Low price
Cons:
- Field of view is partially obstructed.
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Sightmark SM26008 Ultra Shot Plus Red Dot Sights
This device is an improved version of the very popular Ultra Shot QD Digital Switch Reflex Sight. Measuring 5x3x3 inches and weighing 12.6 ounces, it is a medium-sized device with a protective, aluminum shield hood for added defense.
It is completely shockproof and water-resistant, so you can use it in all weather conditions. Designed for close-range, fast-moving targets, it has a red and green reticle with digital switch button on the side to adjust brightness in any lighting condition. It features 5 brightness settings and 4 reticle patterns, so you can set these according to your liking.
The dot size varies depending on reticle selection. It allows adjusting elevation and windage (1 MOA per click) as well. The dual-pane lens system is great, thanks to its built-in laser design.
With its wide field of view (105 feet@100 yards), eye relief is also good. Powered by CR123A battery, the Sightmark SM26008 offers a runtime of up to 10000 hours, which is great for a device in this price range. Also, it is protected by lifetime warranty, so you really don’t have anything to worry about.
Pros:
- Shock & water proof
- 4 reticle patterns
- Unlimited eye relief
- Long battery life
- Lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Some users complained that parallax is not efficiently corrected.
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Burris 300234 Fastfire III with Picatinny Mount 3 MOA Sight (Black)
The BURRIS 300234 is a 6-inch long rifle-combat sight with a wide objective lens and powerful magnification for superior field view. Designed with highest quality materials, it is sturdy, well-built and not impacted by recoil. It is shockproof, water-resistant and very durable.
The sight has a 3 MOA dot reticle that can be adjusted to three brightness settings including an automatic brightness mode. Windage and elevation adjustment upgrades are also available.
It comes with a Picatinny mount, so you can easily secure the position with it. The lens is clear and parallax free, so once mounted, the sight holds the zero well. Also, since the battery is conveniently located on top of the sight, you get an unobstructed field view. At a medium price range, this is a very versatile sight and can be used with a diverse range of guns.
Pros:
- Shock & water proof
- Unlimited eye relief
- Top of sight battery access
Cons:
- Some users complained that the reticle is a bit blurry.
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DD DAGGER DEFENSE Dagger Defense DDHB Red Dot sight
This red dot sight is only 3.2 inches long, allowing enough space for other accessories in the optical system. It’s a bit heavy (10.2 ounces) though since it is made of the same sturdy aluminum that’s used for aircrafts.
It comes with 4 different reticles to choose from, so you can either opt for a red dot, a green dot, a red cross-hair or a green cross-hair. The red ones are ideal for bright, sunny days while the green ones are for low light conditions.
The sight has a 15.8m wide field of view and is equipped with a locking set screw to stabilize sighting adjustments.
For brightness control, there’s a rotary adjustment knob on the side while for adjusting elevation and windage, you can use the included hex wrench. The device is shockproof and waterproof. It is robustly built and also reasonably priced. Overall, it’s a great product for beginners.
Pros:
- Shock & water proof
- 4 reticle patterns
- Unlimited eye relief
- Low price
Cons:
- Some users complained that the reticle is a bit blurry.
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Vortex Optics Venom Red Dot Sights
The Vortex Optics Venom is a sight with fully multi-coated, square style lens and 3 MOA red dot. The coating helps protect the lens from dust, thus maximizing the clarity of both the dot and the view through the optic. Measuring 6.7 x 5.1 x 2.9 inches, it also enables a wider field of view.
As it’s made with sturdy aluminum, it weighs a little over 5 ounces and can withstand the recoil of a gun with ease. The exterior is shockproof and has low-glare, anodized mantle-finish for durability.
Due to its O-seal rings, which prevent dust and moisture from entering the device, it is water-resistant as well. The lens is parallax free and crystal clear. This sight is known for high quality and versatility, which is why it is more commonly used for competitions and sport shooting events than for combat.
It can be used with all kinds of pistols, handguns, shotguns and rifles. With its Picatinny mount, it’s super easy to position. The power and brightness controls are conveniently placed on the left side of the optic. It features 10 brightness settings including an auto-brightness mode.
Wrenches for windage and elevation adjustments are also included. There is a CR 1632 battery placed on top of the device and it allows up to 150 hours of use even at maximum brightness setting.
At lower settings, expect 30000 hours of operation. It also features an auto shut down mode which helps improve the battery life further. For those who are willing to pay a little extra for quality, it is a great product to have.
Pros:
- Multi-coated lens
- Shock, dust & water proof
- Unlimited eye relief
- Top of sight battery access
- Auto shut down feature
Cons:
- High price
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HOLOSUN HS403A Micro Red Dot Sight (2 MOA)
The HOLOSUN HS403A stands out because of its motion-activation feature. This means that it automatically turns on when the user picks up the gun and shuts down after 8 hours of standby. Measuring 2.4 x 1.6 x 3 inches and weighing 4.2 ounces, it has a compact and light weight aluminum body.
It has micro arc oxidation finish and is completely waterproof. As it’s designed for day and night use, it features 12 brightness settings of which 2 are night vision settings. The front lens is parallax free and is also angled to prevent glare. This ensures unlimited eye relief.
Also, it comes with two mounts which can be strapped directly to the device to hold it in place while you make adjustments. Options for windage and elevation adjustments are also there. However, the dot size is small (2 MOA), the device is ideal only for small distances. It runs on a CR2032 3v battery that allows 50,000 hours of operation, which is over 5 years of continuous use.
The battery placement is also quite ergonomic. It stays hidden in the base of the sight, preventing blocking your view. It is a cleverly designed, durable sight and is also versatile in function. You can use it with revolvers, rifles, bows and even with archery gear. Overall, it’s a value for money product.
Pros:
- Motion-activated
- Waterproof
- Unlimited eye relief
- Tilted lens design
- Long battery life
- Ergonomic battery placement
Cons:
- Very small dot size
Sig Sauer SOR52001 Romeo5 1x20mm Compact
The Sig Sauer SOR52001 is again a motion-activated sight. It turns on when it detects motion and turns off when there isn’t any, thus saving a lot of battery in the process. It measures 8.9 x 6.9 x 4.6 inches and weighs 11.8 ounces, so it is a bit larger than most others in this price range. Made with aircraft grade aluminum, it is water, shock and fog proof.
The lens is fully multi-coated, so that also prevents it from having issues with fog. The dot size is only 2 MOA but the optical clarity is excellent. The dot size will be difficult for long range shooting but for CQB style shooting and short distances, it should be fine.
The device has 10 brightness settings, of which 8 are for daylight and 2 are for night vision. The dot illuminates well even at the lowest light setting, making it a great sight for low light conditions. It also has an integrated Picatinny interface.
You get a low mount riser and a co-witness 1.41in riser mount for easy positioning and operational safety. Its 40,000+ hours of battery life is enough for prolonged use. The price is also reasonable, making it an excellent overall package.
Pros:
- Motion-activated
- Multi-coated lens
- Shock, dust, fog & water proof
- Unlimited eye relief
- Long battery life
Cons:
- Very small dot size
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Trijicon RMR 6.5 MOA Adjustable LED Red Dot Sight
The Trijicon RMR stands out because of its unique house-shaped body. The design, which is protected by a patent, diverts the force of an impact away from the lens. This adds to the durability and life of sensitive parts and minimizes the effect of recoil.
At 1.78 inches of length, the device is very compact but because it’s crafted from aircraft aluminum, it weighs about 8 ounces. Its multi-coated lens creates a wide-band light transmission so that there’s minimal change in target area color. To adjust brightness, there are 8 settings including an automatic brightness mode.
This is especially useful when switching scenery fast. It comes with a long lasting CR2032 lithium battery. Even with maximum brightness setting, you can expect a battery life of 3 years. The lens gives a bright, red dot of 6.5 MOA which is easily adjustable by 1 MOA per click, with no special tools.
Larger dot size means that you get a clearer view over large distances, so for long range shooting, this is probably the best red dot sight. The lens is parallax free, so if you’ve zeroed in correctly, your shot will surely hit the target.
The device is also very versatile. It easily attaches with rifles, handguns or even optic pieces. It is reliable and ensures top performance for self defense, hunting and competitions. It’s a bit expensive though.
Pros:
- Housing-shape design
- Large dot size
- Multi-coated lens
- Unlimited eye relief
- Shock, dust, fog & water proof
- Long battery life
Cons:
- High price
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Editors Choice of Best Red Dot Sight
In our view, the Trijicon RMR is the best red dot sight on market. Not only it has a unique design to minimize recoil effect but it also gives a big 6.5 MOA red dot which is much larger than most other sights.
This makes it much safer than other options and also easier to zero-in. Other than this, it is versatile, durable and has all the basic features that one expects from a good sight. We love this product and also recommend it to our readers.
Which one do you think is the best red dot sight? Do let us know your views by dropping your comments in the box below.
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