The 10 Best Red Dot Sights for Your Rifle in 2020

4.7/5

The best red dot sight for rifles and shotguns can greatly help with the accuracy of your shots. Red dot sights are used for long range shootings and are the perfect replacement to traditional iron sights. A red dot sight is a magnifying reflector applicable for firearms.

If you are a hunter using a shotgun, then red dot sights are the right equipment for optimum accuracy. This will make sure that you are shooting at the right target.

How do red dot sights work? The equipment has a concave lens with a fine metallic coating that imitates only red light. The red dot is a reflection of a light emitting diode in the sight tube.

When you peep through the sight, the red dot shows as if it has been calculated onto the target. The sight doesn’t have pinpoint precision but provides some level of guarantee that you will shoot your target by using right marking and firing techniques. It can be attuned up and down as well as needed.

10 Best Red Dot Sights of 2020 for Rifles and Shotguns

One of the great ways to improve your shooting experience is to add the best red dot sight with your rifles and shotguns. Doing this will be a huge help in improving your accuracy as well as speed. When you are using a red dot sight, you can pin your targets accurately and efficiently. If you get the right red dot optics, you get an effective way to improve your accuracy and speed that you will never get from some advanced magnified optics.

For both shooters and hunters, optics can deliver exceptional benefits. If you are not using any optic, you will struggle with constantly shifting between the front sight of your weapon and your target, which is known to be extremely taxing. If you think that you don’t need a red dot sight, think again because even the most experienced shooter will need this unit to achieve accurate hits.

However, most shooters struggle to find the right red dot optics for their firearm. Because of this reason, we have gathered the ten great red dot sights of 2020. We want this guide to help everyone out there in choosing the perfect red dot sight for them.

Top 10 Products

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MODEL

PRICE

RATING

Do you still wonder where to start looking for your new red dot sight? You might be interested in starting with these top 10 sights.

The Budget Red Dot Sights

Our Rating

Top Rated  Red Dot Sight
5/5

Trijicon 4×32 ACOG ECOS Riflescope can be your ultimate sight for both long-distance shooting and Close Quarter battle or CQB since these situations will require accuracy and pinpoint bullet replacement. With the help of the product’s dual-sighting system, you will gain a distinct tactical advantage. Because of the precise capabilities that you will get by using magnified four power Trijicon ACOG, you will have the ability to choose the right aim solution for your situation at hand. 

This makes the product the best of both worlds. You don’t need any tool for elevation adjustments and windage since the ECOS comes with external windage as well as elevation adjusters, which makes it waterproof up to 11m with no caps.

Features

  • This product is called "always on, always ready" since it needs no battery. Trijicon 4x32 ACOG ECOS Riflescope also has a tritium/fiber optic illuminated reticle, and it automatically adjusts its brightness according to the available light.
  • Since you are shooting with both eyes open using the Bindon Aiming Concept (BAC), you will have an improved situational awareness.
  • Trijicon 4x32 ACOG ECOS has been compact-proven.
  • One of the shock-resistant sights that have proven to withstand recoil between .22LR to .50BMG. Choosing this will give you a product that easily passes the drop test requirements of the U.S. Military.
  • Be impressed with the exceptional waterproof performance of Trijicon 4x32 ACOG ECOS. It even exceeds military standards. The unit is fog proof because it is dry-nitrogen filled.

Highlights

  • Take advantage of Trijicon 4x32 ACOG ECOS' exact target distance and hold feature. It is possible because these optics come with bullet drop compensating as well as target-ranging reticle that is very effective for decisive aiming.
  • The rugged, reliable housing design of this unit is one of its best features. With its fixed power design, you get a product with minimal moving parts, creating a nearly indestructible sighting system.
  • Every Trijicon 4x32 ACOG ECOS will give you outstanding clarity every time you aim for your target. With the quality of the product's glass and multi-colored lenses, light-gathering capabilities will be maximized, and this will result in a clear field of view, including zero distortion.

Our Rating

4.9/5

EOTech HHS-2 Holographic Hybrid Sight II is an excellent combination state of the art EOTech tactical gear designed for precision accuracy during the intense tactical situation at either close or medium range. With this E.O. Tech red dot optics, you get the combination of high-accuracy optics and zoom-enhancing properties of the manufacturer’s best sights, which make it one of the best in its line. EXPS2-2 is the heart of the red dot sight, and this is known to be a highly compact and tactically-oriented red dot sight that features a large ring reticle with two 1-MOA aiming dots. 

The EOTech HHS-2 Holographic Hybrid Sight’s reflex portion comes with tow-eyes-open aiming, which allows you to get a whole picture of the battlefield while keeping precision accuracy. While its 7mm raised base is allowing you to utilize iron sights even with the red dot sight equipped, with the sights’ EXPS2-2 red dot sight, you can easily adjust the side illumination buttons. At the same time, the transversely mounted 123 lithium battery will not require frequent replacement.

Features

  • The sights’ 3X magnifier with switch-to-side mount is working with all existing HWS units.
  • The reticle of EOTech HHS-2 Holographic Hybrid Sight is 65MOA circle, including two 1MOA aiming dots.
  • For the shortened base, you will only be required at most of 2 ¾ inches of rail space.
  • The battery cap and latch were eliminated, and they were replaced with simple O-ring, tethered caps to achieve better sealing.
  • The average battery life of EOTech HHS-2 Holographic Hybrid Sight can reach level 12 brightness, and it can last roughly 600 hours.
  • For easy attachment and removal, there are side buttons, including locking, adjustable, and a quick-detach lever.
  • This product is fog proof and waterproof, and it can be submerged up to 10 ft. depth.

Highlights

  • One of the most special things that you will love about EOTech HHS-2 Holographic Hybrid Sight is its quick transition. You can instantly change from close-quarter to medium-range targets since these optics come with a G33 Magnifier as well as Switch-to-Side mount.
  • Because of the optics’ compact and side button operation, it only consumes very minimal space.
  • To reduce sight length, every unit comes with a single traverse 123 battery.

Our Rating

4.7/5

One of the high quality and great red dot optics that you can find in the market is Trijicon ACOG (Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight) 4×32 BAC. It is a fixed power, compact riflescope that features a dual-illuminated reticle (fiber optics and tritium) for domination in bright to low or no light. Every unit of Trijicon ACOG 4×32 Red Dot Scope features legendary durability and reliability, and it offers reticle patterns for numerous calibers. BAC means Bindon Aiming Concept. And since these optics come with BAC, it means that ACOG’s illuminated reticle will aim to ‘both eyes open’ for optimum situational awareness.

There are many reasons why the United States Marine Corps, United States Navy, United States Army, United States Special Operation Forces, and the United States Air Force trusted million ACOG 4×32 scopes. These optics are being preferred by allies around the world as well as hundreds to thousands of civilian enthusiasts.

Features

  • Trijicon ACOG 4x32 is designed for the specification of U.S. Special Operations Command, which means you can trust this product 100%.
  • Another reason why you should take this red dot sight is because of its battery-free illumination. Trijicon ACOG 4x32 is using a tritium/fiber optic illuminated reticle, and it automatically adjusts its brightness depending on the available light.
  • Combat-proven red dot sight, so you are confident about your next shooting range or other activities.
  • It comes with a bullet drop compensating as well as ranging reticles.

Highlights

  • The reticle of this model will allow you to bullet drop compensation out of 800m with no manual adjustments needed.
  • The rugged aluminum-alloy housing of this model will show you how durable and reliable it is. With its forged 7075-T6 aircraft aluminum-alloy housing, you have a product that comes with an almost indestructible sighting system.
  • Since Trijicon ACOG 4x32 Red Dot Scope is using the Bindon Aiming Concept, you can use this model with both eyes open.

Our Rating

4.5/5

Another high-quality product that makes it to our top 10 is EOTech EXPS3-4 Holographic Hybrid Sight w/ G33 Magnifier HHS-1. This is a close-quarter tactical accessory that is used by U.S. Special Operations Command. These E.O. Tech red dot optics model has been chosen due to its incredibly fast target capabilities, versatile reticle adaptability, and true heads-up display design. The product’s true heads-up display can eliminate blind spots, improve peripheral performance, and reduce tunnel vision. 

The EXPS-3 will allow you to target while both eyes are open, giving you the quick response capability that you require in the middle of an intense firefight. EO-Tech EXPS-3 Holographic 1x Scope’s reticle can consistently be visible with 30 various brightness settings, including ten settings optimized for night vision devices. You can also use the iron sights with the help of a 7mm raised base, whenever you don’t wish to use your red dot sight’s reticle. 

This model features EXPS3-4, including a locking, adjustable, quick-detach level that allows you to remove and to achieve the high-speed mounting capabilities effortlessly to attach the sight. As a transversely mounted lithium 123 battery powers it, this model does not emit any light signature, and the operator is the only person that can see it. EO-Tech EXPS-3 Holographic 1x Scope is a high-performance, an incredibly rugged holographic sight. The world’s most elite soldier is using it, and it is placing modern military technology at your disposal.

Features

  • This is a standard weapon optic of choice for the U.S. Special Operations Command.
  • A red dot sight that is optimized for high-speed close-quarter tactical operations.
  • You can use this model with two eyes open, so you can achieve rapid target acquisition and blind-spot elimination, which is very important for total situational awareness.
  • For your access with iron sights, this EO-Tech EXPS-3 Holographic 1x Scope comes with 7mm raised base.
  • Though the display window is obstructed, EO-Tech EXPS-3 Holographic 1x Scope can keep accurate zero as well as reticle visibility.
  • This is a waterproof unit that can be submerged up to 33 feet.
  • It meets the drop test of the military standard with full optical capability.
  • A passive weapon object without a light signature that will betray your position.

Highlights

  • Take advantage of EO-Tech EXPS-3 Holographic 1x Scope's 30 brightness settings, with ten settings for night vision and no reticle washout.
  • You can easily adjust the reticle brightness of this model using the side buttons.
  • For the fast as well as easy installation/removal, it features a locking, adjustable, quick detach lever.
  • The product’s transversely-mounted lithium 123 battery can stay up to 6,000hours under continuous use and medium power setting.

Our Rating

4.3/5

This Aimpoint Hunter H34S Red Dot Sight is one of your solutions if you want to make sure that your speed and accuracy on the range as well as in the field is improved. With the model’s Famed Aimpoint design, it will be allowed to be utilized from almost all angles with no parallax, and that makes it the perfect product for those looking for a sight that can perfectly fit their 34mm scope rings. We all know that red dot optics are favoring speed and accuracy over magnification, and the 2 MOA red dot is already large enough to be quickly seen without obscuring your vision over the game. You can dominate the field in a very smooth way with the use of Aimpoint Hunter H34S Red Dot Sight.

Since Aimpoint Hunter H34S Red Dot Sight features 34mm rings and a short construction, you can attach this model to almost all standard shotguns and rifles, and some magnum rifles. The Aimpoint Hunter H34S Red Dot Sight is famous because of its easy installation, durability, as well as for its enormous 5-year battery life. You will be left surprised with the accuracy, speed, and durability of Aimpoint Hunter H34S Red Dot Sight, and you will wonder why you haven’t got this shooting gear sooner.

Features

  • This model is highly recommended for standard as well as a short action rifle. It can also be used for shotguns and magnum handguns.
  • Get a red dot sight that comes with ultra-modern European design with distinctive visual lines and features.
  • Each sight is supplied with two 34mm Weaver-style sight rings.
  • Another feature that you will like about Aimpoint Hunter H34S Red Dot Sight is its multi-coated 39mm objective lens.
  • The battery life will last up to 50000hours under constant operation.
  • Also, every model is waterproof. So, you don't have to worry about firing or shooting under the rain.
  • The unit will only require adjustment turret caps so you can achieve the zero sight.

Highlights

  • Be amazed by how accurate and fast this model is. It will improve your shooting experience like a breeze.
  • You get an unlimited field of view when you are using Aimpoint Hunter H34S Red Dot Sight. This is perfect for people who prefer to see everything in front of them than just focus on the target.
  • For the fast as well as easy installation/removal, it features a locking, adjustable, quick detach lever.
  • Another great reason to get this model is that it is parallax-free and can offer unlimited eye relief.
  • You will never feel any change with the weather because Aimpoint Hunter H34S is unaffected even by extreme weather conditions.
  • No laser emission may cause some harm to your eyes.

Our Rating

4.1/5

This Aimpoint CompM4 is incorporating an integral amount that is eliminating the need for a separate ring, and you can customize this model with vertical as well as forward spaces so it can perfectly fit different weapon systems. The Aimpoint CompM4 is recommended for both sport shooters and hunters who require night vision compatibility while available with either regular or low battery compartments. The performance of this scope is designed for every generation of NVDs or night vision devices. However, it is especially suited for the generation 3-night vision. 

The Aimpoint CompM4 is featuring a unique band-pass coating located on the front lens, and it reflects chosen frequencies of red light at close to 100 percent efficiency. It can deliver the highest possible dot brightness using the smallest amount of energy as it transmits almost 100 percent of light to the Infrared. You will be amazed that Aimpoint CompM4 can provide the clearest and brightest image possible when using it with a 3rd Gen Night Vision. Aimpoint CompM4 is always ready to be used any time of the day with the help of its 9 Daylight settings with one extra-bright setting and 7 NVD-compatible brightness settings.

Features

  • It is highly compatible with all the generations of Night Vision or NVD.
  • With its super ACET technology, you will be allowed to use this scope for a maximum of 80000hours, which is equivalent to 8 years. This is according to daytime operation on one A.A. battery.
  • Since it comes with an internal voltage regulator, you can use CompM4 with any A.A. size battery.
  • This model can match perfectly with Aimpoint 3x Mag.
  • A waterproof sight that can be submerged to the water up to 150 feet or that's equivalent to 45 meters.
  • The improved adjustment caps of the sight are now easier to remove and protected from any impact.

Highlights

  • One of the top features of this Aimpoint CompM4 is the nine daylight settings and 7-night vision compatible settings.
  • With QRP2 mount, this means that you have a clamping force that is twice that with QRP while the mounting knob was made to be wider as well as shorter to improve operation while lessening the chance of getting snagged on another gear.
  • To absorb recoil, the mount base is “keyed” into the body of Aimpoint CompM4.
  • There is no separate sight ring needed since the mount base is screwed directly into the sight.
  • For NVD settings, you can use this Aimpoint CompM4 up to 500, 000 hours.

Our Rating

4/5

Aimpoint is continually adding masterpieces to their Hunter series of red dot sights, and this Aimpoint Hunter H34L is one of them. This model that comes with 34 mm is providing every hunter the accuracy that can be compared to magnification with no parallax and offers unlimited eye relief. At the same time, the speed cannot be matched by any magnified scopes. The 2 MOA dot is considered large enough for your big games while it is not obscuring your field of view. 

With Aimpoint Hunter H34L, you are getting an advantage against moving targets such as moose and deer, under any weather condition since this sight is fully waterproof. The Aimpoint Hunter H34L is featuring 34 mm rings that can be attached easily, which can make it the perfect fit for long and magnum action rifles.

Features

  • This scope is recommended for magnum actions or rifles with the standard.
  • It comes with ultra-modern European design features as well as distinctive visual lines.
  • The two 34 mm Weaver-style sight rings are supplied with every Aimpoint Hunter H34L.
  • It also comes with a multi-coated 39 mm objective lens.
  • Under constant operation, this scope has a battery life of up to 50,00hours using a single CR-2032 battery.
  • A fully waterproof sight that you can use even under the rain.
  • You will only need adjustment turret caps to zero the light.

Highlights

  • Never miss this Aimpoint Hunter H34L for your next shooting range because It is incredibly fast and accurate.
  • With an unlimited field of view, you can see everything around you.
  • Preferred by many hunters and shooters because it is parallax-free and can offer unlimited eye relief.
  • When you are using this Aimpoint Hunter H34L, you don’t have to worry about any extreme weather conditions.
  • You don’t have to worry about laser emission that can harm your eyes because this sight is completely free from that.

Our Rating

3.9/5

Aimpoint CompM5 is designed for military applications and law enforcement because it can deliver greater situational awareness as well as rapid target acquisition. At the same time, it allows you to shoot with your two eyes open. This sight comes with superior light transmission using its six daylight settings and 4-night vision so you can get better accuracy for both daytime and night. While the sight’s 2MOA dot is being powered by ACET technology, you can use it for more than 50,000hours of consistent operation. 

The advanced optical lenses are being protected by lightweight and durable housing, while the unit is keyed into the mount base for recoil absorption. You need Aimpoint CompM5 is you want to make sure that you accurately hit your target as you maintain your awareness of your surroundings.

Features

  • This scope can be mounted on MIL-STD 1913 Rail System/Picatinny rail.
  • The advanced optical lenses of Aimpoint CompM5 come with a protective window.
  • It comes with a high, AAA battery compartment.
  • To absorb recoil, the mount base is keyed into the sight’s body.
  • With its ACET technology, this scope comes with the battery life of up to 50,000hours, or over five years, of constant operation using one battery.
  • You can use the mechanical switch of Aimpoint CompM5 for speed and reliability.

Highlights

  • The 2 MOA dot is very effective for both long-distance engagement and close combat.
  • This unit can perfect match with Aimpoint 3XMAg-1 as well as 6XMAg-1 magnifiers.
  • It also features a great light transmission.
  • Another feature that will make you interested in this scope is its extremely robust housing design.
  • A fully waterproof sight that can be submerged up to 45m or 150 feet depth.

Our Rating

3.8/5

AimPoint CompM4 and CompM4s 2MOA are considered to be the finest sights that have been produced by Aimpoint. One of the most significant improvements of this model is the improved energy efficiency that can go up to 8 years of continuous use with a single A.A. battery.

Features

  • This AimPoint CompM4 and CompM4s 2MOA Red Dot Sight is compatible with all the generations of NVD or Night Vision Devices.
  • With its super ACET technology, you will be allowed up to 80,000hours of daytime operation on a single A.A. battery. That's more than eight years of use!
  • Since CompM4 comes with an internal voltage regulator, you can use this with any AA size battery.
  • You will surely like the nine daylight settings and 7-night vision compatible settings.
  • It can last up to 500, 000 hours if you are using this scope on the NVD setting.
  • The 2MOA dot can be used with either long-distance engagement or close combat.

Highlights

  • Every AimPoint CompM4 and CompM4s 2MOA match perfectly with Aimpoint 3XMag.
  • The light transmission that you will get from this scope cannot be compared on the red dot 2018, 2019, and 2020.
  • A waterproof model that can be submerged up to 150 feet or 45 meters.
  • The improved adjustment caps of this model is easier to remove, and they are protected from any impact.

Our Rating

3.6/5

The OpticsPlanet Exclusive Aimpoint Micro T-2 is designed to be the most suitable sight for tactical applications. This model is the product of the feedback provided by military professionals and law enforcement. The sight housing from Aimpoint’s tactical experts comes with cutting edge lens coatings, and it is radically improving the clarity and shape of the 2MOA red dot. This Aimpoint Micro T-2 Dot Rifle Scope is now offering front as well as transparent rear protective flip-covers. 

There is an added physical protection around the adjustment turrets, and there are internal changes, so the electronic components of Aimpoint Micro T-2 can be protected. Because of this model’s sealed tube design, your sight will never be obstructed by rain, snow, dust, sand, or mud, or ever get in between you and your target.

Features

  • This sight comes with advanced optical lenses to achieve better light transmission.
  • Every Aimpoint Micro T-2 also comes with a front flip-up lens cover. This cover is also transparent.
  • This model's ACET technology will allow you to use it for 50 000 hours of constant operation from a single battery. That is more than five years of usage!
  • Aimpoint Micro T-2 is available in 2 MOA dot size.

Highlights

  • For greater ruggedness, this model comes with reinforced protection of the turrets.
  • Aimpoint Micro T-2 Red Dot Sight is ideal for shotguns, rifles, carbines, handguns, and submachine guns.
  • A highly compatible sight for every generation of Night Vision Devices.
  • Features 8 daylight settings and 4-night vision compatible settings.

What are the characteristics of the best red dot scope?

You will never be ready to find the perfect red dot scope for your firearm if you will never know the different characteristics that you should look for in this shooting gear.

Housing Configuration – you can choose whether to have a tube style or open style red dot sight. When you prefer the tube style, it looks like a traditional sight. With this type, you will be allowed to apply filters as well as protective covers to your lens, making the “red dot” much easier to see during bright sunlight. While for the open sights, they don’t come with the classic tube style. With this type, you will only have the bare basics, including an objective window so you can see through, and there will be a source of illumination. Filters cannot be used with open housing since its configuration comes with less room for flair.

Type of Projection – every red dot sight has reflex sights and holographic. With a holographic projection, your sight will be illuminated from the lens front. At the same time, the laser diode light will be projected onto your viewing window to make a holographic red dot that will help you in aiming at your target. For the reflex sight projections, it is more common to use red dot sights that are being utilized for recreation. This reflex sight is reflecting LED light, and it is positioned behind at the back of the lens towards your line of sight.

Style of the Reticle – when it comes to the reticle, we are saying that it is the “red dot” that the sight is using to bring the firearm’s line into the target. All reticles that you will find in every sight were designed to be illuminated so it can be easier to shoot under a low lighting condition. However, they don’t need to be red or a simple dot reticle. The reticle varies with color and patterns, and you have to find a sight that will make you comfortable while you shoot.

Battery Life of the Sight – this is very important when it comes to any red dot sight. The last thing that you would want to happen is to end up with a sight that is not working when you need it the most. Ensure that you know the battery life of the sight so you can be prepared whenever or wherever you need it.

Do red dot sights improve accuracy?

The answer is “yes”. Red dot sights can improve your accuracy as well as speed. But how do red dot sights work? Simple Since red dot sights must be used with both eyes open, you can focus on both your target and the reticle. With your dominant eye, you can see the dot reticle and the target, and your non-dominant eye will only have a view of the target, which will result in stereopsis. The “both eyes open” is called the Bindon Aiming Concept.

What range are red dot sights good for?

When it comes to the range, red dot sights are best sighted in at 100 yards. When the distance exceeds the 100-yard mark, the sight’s accuracy will depend on the scope design and the size of the target.

What red dot sight does the military use?

Military professionals are using ACOG optics and red dot sight. Some of the popular brands are EOTech, Aimpoint, and Trijicon. How to determine the different types of sight optics will be used will depend on the type of mission they are needed for.

What is the best MOA for a red dot sight?

For “tactical” sights, they usually come with 1 MOA since it can offer a very precise aiming dot. However, some people will struggle with this one, especially those who don’t have perfect eyesight. So, for the great MOA for red dot sight, we would recommend dot size from 3 MOA dot to 5 MOA dot. Because of their larger 3 MOA dot and 5 MOA dot, they are great for close-range targets, and they are perfect for steel shooting, speed competition, shooters, or hunters who have astigmatism.

Top Rated Red Dot Sight of 2020

5/5

Conclusion: Red Dot Sight Reviews

We can clearly say that you need the best red dot sight for your firearm. For this reason, you have to be very careful in choosing which sight to have for your rifle or shotgun. Since there are many available options in the market, you need to do your research before you shop. We hope that this review will help you in this process so you will have a better, faster, and more accurate shoot experience.