Red dot sights have been around for decades, but in recent years, they have become more readily accessible for casual users and hobbyists. While many people think about these types of sights for handguns, there are some great models available for rifles and shotguns. In fact, some of the best sights can be used with different types of weapons, providing great versatility.
In our quest to find the best red dot sights for shotguns, we’ve tested 25 different products. This enabled us to compile a list of 8 great models including our editor’s choice, Holosun HS507C-X2. In our testing, we determined that it was not simply a matter of finding sights with good optics, but also the usability implications of each model. This includes the battery lifespan, the ease of use and even small details like how easy it is to switch out the battery when you’re out in nature to ensure you find the best sight for your preferences and requirements.
Other features: Reflex sight, IPX-8 waterproof, fogproof, 16 mm x 23 mm window
The Holosun HS507C-X2 is an easy pick as our editor’s choice as it is easy to use and super small, providing a versatile platform for any user. In addition to getting a Trijicon footprint, there are multiple reticles, a side loading battery and a solar panel. It is these multiple reticles that make this model stand out, this allows you to pattern the load inside your reticles for specific ranges. For example, if you’re limited to 12 yards as your longest possible shot, you can create a pattern within the circle for this range.
What makes it the best Holosun red dot for shotgun use is that it has auto brightness and manual brightness settings. There is also a solar failsafe feature that is not available on many other Holosun models. It is also larger optic, making it better suited to shotguns and other full-size weapons. Although the HS507C-X2 is slightly more expensive, for many users, these features make it worth paying a premium.
Other features: Reflex sight, reinforced windage and elevation turrets, 12 brightness settings
The brand Aimpoint has a certain amount of cache in the tactical optics niche as it is used by law enforcement and in global conflicts. The Aimpoint Micro T-2 is one of the best red dot sight for shotgun use options as it is simple and straightforward to use with a clear lens and unlimited eye relief. There are several options to adjust the optic brightness with eight daylight and four night vision compatible setting options. This allows you to adjust the red dot for both the environment and your personal preferences.
Where the Aimpoint Micro T-2 has the edge over other models such as the Holosun HS501C-X2 is the built-in flip caps. These are not strictly required, but they provide a nice touch that showcase the premium feel of this sight. Bear in mind that the Micro T-2 does lack the auto shut off feature available on the Holosun. However, like the Holosun HS501C-X2, the Aimpoint Micro T-2 does have a 10-year warranty for personal users, allowing you to purchase either sight with confidence.
Other features: reflex sight, tempered glass lens, automatic and 8 adjustable brightness settings
The Trijicon SRO or Specialized Reflex Optic offers a broad field of view and excellent clarity for accurate and rapid target acquisition. It has a 7075-T6 aluminum housing which is known for its fatigue resistance and strength. This makes it a great option for those looking for the best red dot for shotgun turkey hunting. Additionally, since the SRO is billed as waterproof to a depth of ten feet, you don’t need to worry if the conditions start to get damp as you’re waiting for your prey.
If you’re looking for an optic for Beretta 1301 tactical and your shotgun, the Trijicon SRO could be your best option. The Trijicon SRO is designed for pistols, but it can also be used with shotguns. This sets it apart from many models that don’t offer this flexibility, yet it has a footprint identical to the RMR, making it compatible with most RMR mounts. The SRO also features some premium features as you find on the Holosun like the lock out button to “lock in” your brightness setting preferences.
Other features: fits 12, 16 and 20 gauge shotguns with a plain barrel with no vent rib
The HI VIZ Snap On Sight is an easy and cheap way to upgrade your shotgun’s sights. You don’t need gunsmithing for installation as it simply snaps on to the barrel and you’re ready to go. The HI VIZ Snap on Sight is the best red dot for 12 gauge shotguns as it is not only easy to use, but it provides a highly visible red or green fiber optic front sight that makes it easier to pick up in all light conditions.
While the HI VIZ is a cheaper option compared to many of the models on this list, it is important to note that it does not have the durability. This design is not suited for high volume shooting. Although it can be a decent option for turkey or deer hunting, or even home defense, if you’re interested in bird hunting or other hunting requiring multiple rounds in quick succession, this is not the right choice for you. The reason for this is the HI VIZ is made with polymer unlike models like the Trijicon SRO, which is made with aluminum. So, with the heat of the barrel from multiple shots, the polymer can be prone to heat damage.
Other features: auto shut-off, 10 brightness settings, fogproof
The Swampfox Kingslayer takes its name from Francis Marion, the Revolutionary War leader known as “Swamp Fox,” and this sight is certainly tenacious. It weighs just one ounce and fits RMR cuts. This is a great pick as the best red dot for shotgun deer hunting, as it has a battery life of 1,500 hours with auto shut off after four hours. There are also ten brightness levels and you can access the battery via a tray on the side of the optic, so you don’t need to remove it from the mount to replace your battery.
Unlike some of the other sights on this list, the Swampfox has minimal controls. There are just windage and elevation adjustments on the right side and top of the topic, with a basic brightness control on the left. Like the HIVIZ, there is the standard red dot, but you can also select the green reticle which has a 3 MOA center and 65 MOA circle. This makes it a dual purpose sight that can be used for a shotgun or carbine.
Other features: 11 brightness settings, 70+ MOA adjustment, fogproof
The Bushnell is our pick as the best red dot for tactical shotgun use as it has impressive brightness range. It has 11 brightness settings, which are ideal if you’re using the sight in extreme daylight or low light conditions. Additionally, the brightness adjustment wheel can be turned in either direction, so you can go straight up to 11 or down to one without needing to rotate through the setting numbers. There is also an integrated weaver style mount, which allows mounting to a Picatinny 1913 style rail without needing any attachments or risers.
The Trophy TRS-25 has 5,000 hours of battery on the medium brightness settings, but unlike models like the Holosun, on the higher brightness levels, you won’t see a glowing red ring that distorts your sight picture and ability to focus. Some people may prefer the noticeable larger dot, but if you find it distracting, you may prefer the Trophy. However, unlike the Holosun, the Trophy does not have an auto shut off, which can be frustrating if you’re concerned about battery life.
Other features: 3 brightness settings, waterproof, submersible, 86 windage/115 elevation MOA Adjustment
The Burris Fastfire 3 is a small, light and easy to use sight making it the best red dot for turkey shotgun users. It is not only affordable, but rugged and dependable. There are three intensity settings for the red dot and an auto setting which adapts it to the light around you. The FastFire 3 is a solid unit that can handle a decent amount of rough treatment and it is available in 3 or 8 MOA. There is also the option of a Picatinny mount and a hood to protect the optic.
Where this model differs from other sights on our list is it has a Speed Bead mounting system. This mounts between the receiver and stock with a red dot replacing your bead. This allows you to mount the optic to your gun without needing to tap for an optics rail. This makes the installation on a par with the HIVIZ, which is ideal for less experienced users. Additionally, this positions the optic far enough to create a super low profile, making it easy to use with traditional shotgun sights.
Other features: 13 Illumination settings, AutoLive motion-sensing on/off technology, ACSS reticle
The Primary Arms SLX 1X MicroPrism is eye catching as it has a unique look to its optic. Once you take the optic from the packaging, it is easy to see that it is high quality and well done. The sight itself has 13 illumination settings including three night vision settings. There is also eight mounting height options and AutoLive motion sensing technology to help extend the battery life. The battery has an impressive 29,000 hour lifespan on medium setting and the MicroPrism is backed by the Primary Arms Lifetime Warranty. This makes it an easy pick for the best red dot for shotgun bird hunting.
While superficially, the MicroPrism appears like the Aimpoint T2, there are a few key differences. The MicroPrism has a sturdy body with elevation adjustment on top and windage adjustment on the side. On the opposite side is the illumination adjustment and battery compartment. It is also important to note that the MicroPrism optic has gone through rigorous field testing, which included testing with 7,000 plus rounds fired while mounted on a rifle. Considering this is a micro sized body optic, this is highly impressive.
With so many great options on the market, it can be a little tricky to find the right red dot sight for your requirements and preferences. So, in this buying guide, we’ll break down the factors to consider and features to look for to help you to find the model best suited to your needs.
There are a number of benefits of using red dot sights. The best red dot sights make it easier to get quick target acquisition. The sight provides a fast and easy way to acquire your target, particularly when in close quarters.
These sights can also provide enhanced accuracy, as you’ll gain a wider field of vision compared to the traditional iron sights. This creates a better view and you can gain a more precise shot regardless of stability or cheek position.
Red dot sights can also provide unlimited eye relief making it easier for all day shooting or hunting activities.
In the world of hunting, target shooting or tactical training a red dot sight can be a must have. However, your requirements and preferences may not be the same as other members of your party, so you’ll need to choose the right sight for you and your preferred weapon. Some of the factors to consider when choosing a red dot sight for your shotguns include:
One of the first considerations is the size of your new red dot sight. While sights generally all perform the same task, the size of your weapon will influence your choice of sights. For example, it is rare to find a red dot sight that can work well with both a small handgun and a shotgun. Generally, smaller sights work better with smaller weapons and if you have a large shotgun or rifle, you are likely to need a larger sight. However, you need to think about how well you will perform with the sight to make sure the sizing will work well with your preferred weapon.
There are some sights that have a micro format that provide decent performance for shotguns and can be less cumbersome compared to the larger sights typically used for rifles. However, the size of the sight will also influence the size of the viewing window, and this will come down to a matter of preference, as some people prefer a larger window while others find a smaller window easier to target.
The mounting height and footprint determine the different mounting standards. There are a number of footprints on the market, so you’ll need to think about the plate that is compatible with your specific firearm. This will involve some research if your firearm does not have a common mounting format.
You may also need to consider the mounting height, as some people prefer a lower profile sight to maintain focus. With some sights, this may not be possible, so you will need to look for sights that can be placed for a lower profile or offer different mounting height settings.
It is essential to properly mount your red dot sight to ensure that it works accurately and effectively. To mount your red dot sight, you will need to choose the appropriate mounting base and follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
The sight needs to properly align with the bore of the firearm to ensure accuracy and prevent damage during use. You also need to consider the height of the sight, as if it is mounted too high or too low it will make it difficult to use for your preferred shooting style.
You will need to properly ensure all bolts and screws are properly tightened during the mounting process to ensure the sight remains securely in place as you use it.
However, if you’re not particularly confident in your gunsmithing skills, there are sight options that have easy installation. Snap on or Speed Mounting systems can make it easier to quickly mount the sight and you can easily adjust the sight if you find it is not in the optimum position once you head out.
The actual size of the red dot is also important and this is determined by the reticle size. A smaller reticle size covers less area, so it can offer greater precision at longer distances. However, this does mean that the red dot will be smaller and therefore harder to see, particularly if you’re firing in bright sunlight. On the other hand, a larger reticle can be much easier to see, so it tends to be preferred by newbie shooters. Just bear in mind that the larger dot may obstruct the target view when you’re shooting at longer distances.
A good rule of thumb is to consider the reticle size in the context of yards. For example, a one inch dot is optimal at 100 yards, while a two inch dot is ideal at 200 yards etc. So, you will need to think about the types of shot you will typically take and their general distance. This will enable you to choose the optimum reticle size.
As with any device, whether you’re looking at binoculars, telescopes or sights, the quality of the optic matters. Poor quality optics tend to have poor clarity, which can compromise accuracy and may lead to eye fatigue. If you are straining to see clearly through the optic, you’re not only likely to struggle to make your shot, but you could also find that your eyes start to feel tired. You may even experience headaches that will ruin your enjoyment of your day.
Good quality optics provide excellent clarity, which means that you’ll have a crystal clear view of your target. This will assist you to make your shots and have the minimal amount of eye fatigue.
While you may be one of those people who takes great care with their gear, accidents can happen. The chances are that you’ll be using your sight out in nature and it can be very easy for things to slip or be dropped. So, you’ll need to know that your sight can handle the rough and tumble of everyday use.
Fortunately, most sights are made from durable materials with a housing that protects the optic and ensures that even if your sight has the odd knock or bang it will continue to provide great performance.
As with any purchase, a warranty provides a reassurance from the manufacturer of the quality of its product. A warranty can also be an indication of the lifespan expectancy of your new item. Therefore, it is important to look at the warranty offered with your new sight. You may find that choosing a slightly cheaper product is a costly mistake if something happens down the road.
It is also important to consider the manufacturer’s reputation. After all, there is not much point in prioritizing an item with a massive warranty if the manufacturer has a bad reputation for its customer support. You should also consider where the manufacturer is located. For example, while there are some good sights made in China, you need to think about the difficulties this may create if you have a warranty issue in the years to come.
Another important consideration when shopping for a new sight is the battery. You will need to look at not only the lifespan of the battery, but also the ease of access. For example, if your new sight requires special order batteries, it may create problems compared to one that can use more readily available batteries. However, you may consider the weapon compatibility and performance outweigh the potential ease of access issues, depending on the specific model.
Most manufacturers will provide an estimate of the battery lifespan, but this is usually calculated at the mid brightness settings.
Remember that if you need to turn the brightness up to maximum, it will shorten the lifespan of your battery.
Finally, you need to consider the ease of access to the battery compartment. If you’re planning an extended period using the scope, you may need to switch out your battery. So, you’ll need to look at how easy it is to access the battery in the field. Many models have side access, like the Holosun HS501C-X2, which means that you can swap the battery without needing to remove the sight, but this is not the case with all sights.
Another consideration is whether you choose an open or tube style. Open or window design takes its name from the use of a small square shaped window. Tube models have all the interior optic workings housed in an enclosed tube.
There are benefits and potential drawbacks with each option. For example, tube style models have a more limited scope of vision due to being enclosed, but they tend to be more durable, since the components are protected. Open sights typically offer a better vision scope and are lighter, but they are more vulnerable to damage.
Finally, you need to consider any other features you may find beneficial. For example, if you are planning on using night vision, you will need a red dot sight that is compatible. There are models that have various night vision settings. This is important as night vision devices can multiply existing light sources by hundreds of times. This is referred to as bloom and it is an intense explosion of light that can not only cause targeting difficulties, but can hurt your eyes. Essentially, night vision compatibility means that the dot adjusts low enough to put a night vision monocular behind it and you’ll not feel blinded by bloom. For example, the Aimpoint Micro T-2 has four night sight settings, which means that you can choose the appropriate one for the current lighting conditions.
When the sight is set in the night vision modes, the dot becomes so faint that you won’t be able to see it with your naked eye, but through your night vision scope, it will become clearly visible.
Another accessory you may find useful in your new sight is a sight magnifier. This allows you to add magnification to your set up, which is particularly useful with smaller targets or farther distances. If you want to make use of this type of gadget, you’ll need to choose a sight that has various holds for drop or a flip to side mount which will allow you to easily switch between the dot only or dot with magnification.
Red dot optics are an ideal addition when turkey hunting, as they help with precise aiming at mid and close ranges, making it easier for fast target acquisition. Red dot sights tend to be easy to use, as you just put the dot on the wattles and press your trigger.
This depends on the weapon and your sight. As we covered earlier, a good rule of thumb is a one inch reticle is good for 100 yards distance, while two inch is good for 200 yards etc.
The main disadvantage of red dot sights comes down to individual models and their battery life and reliability. Some models have limited battery life, which means that you may need to spend time trying to swap out the battery mid hunt. An optic can also be prone to snagging if you’re drawing from concealment, so you’ll need to consider the profile of your weapon with the sight in place. Finally, a sight does have an optic, which may make it susceptible to condensation, moisture, rain and fog.
Whether you enjoy target shooting, hunting or tactical training, a red dot sight can take your game to the next level. These sights are easy to use and can improve your accuracy immediately. While there are some potential drawbacks including needing to consider battery life and needing to choose the right sight for your preferred weapon, a good sight can be a welcome addition to your set up.
The best red dots for shotguns are available in a variety of price points, specs and more, which makes it possible to find the best model for your preferences and requirements. So, think carefully about the specific weapons you tend to use, what you need from your sight and your budget expectations and you should find that there are plenty of options that fit the bill. Double check the specifications of potential models and then you can make your purchase decision with confidence.
