While some people believe that they do not need a red dot sight for their shotgun, the truth is a modern reflex sight can actually make a world of difference. You may be thinking that since shotguns are used primarily for hitting short-range targets, you would not need a sighting system. However, you might just be amazed by how much the right reflex sight can improve your overall accuracy.
To help you make the right decision and improve your shotgun’s sighting system, we are going to highlight and review the best red dot sight for your primary arms on the market today. Not only will we point out some of the best shotgun sights, but we will also explain why using a reflex sight can help you make more accurate shots.
Whether you are a recreational hunter or you are an experienced competition shooter, this straightforward guide can help you outfit your shotgun with the best reflex sight for you! After testing them all, I think the Vortex Venom is the best reflex sight for shotgun!
The Best Reflex Sights for a Shotgun
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Our Pick
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Great Choice
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Excellent Option
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Choosing the right reflex sight for your shotgun can be a more difficult process than you might expect. Since the market is flooded with different sighting systems, it can be somewhat confusing searching for the right sight if you are unsure where to look.
To help you make the right decision, we have reviewed countless shotgun sights. The following list displays our top picks. If you are curious about trying out a reflex sight with your shotgun, you have come to the right place!
1) Vortex Optics Venom Red Dot Sight
The Venom Red Dot Reflex Sight from Vortex Optics takes our top spot for a variety of reasons. For starters, the Vortex Venom is perfectly compatible with just about any type of shotgun, so you should not have to worry about any sort of compatibility issues.
In terms of performance, the Venom Red Dot Reflex sight is one of the best options on the market today. The multi-coated lenses offer a crisp and clear viewing experience. Since the Vortex Venom has a unique curvature, it also offers a wide range of view, so you should be able to spot your target from any angle.
One of the things we like the most about this particular reflex sight is the fact that it has an extremely low profile, so it will not add any unnecessary bulk to your shotgun. The fact the Vortex Venom is fully encased within a durable aluminum housing means you will not have to worry about damaging it if you accidentally bash the sight against a tree or any other solid object. This is part of the reason why it is such a popular option amongst hunters and other outdoorsmen.
Is the Vortex Optics Venom Red Dot Reflex Sight Adjustable?
Not only is the Venom Red Dot Reflex Sight adjustable, but it is incredibly easy to make elevation and windage adjustments on the go. This is because the adjustment screws are located directly on the top and side of the sight. The screws even have adjustment markings, so you can fine-tune the Reflex optics to your exact preferences, even in dim lighting.
We also like that they made sure that changing out the battery is as straightforward as possible. A top-load battery system means you will not have to remove the sight from your shotgun in order to replace or charge the battery. In many cases, the battery is inserted underneath the sight, so you need to take the sight right off the mount in order to switch it out. Again, this is convenient if your battery dies while you are out in the bush, as you can switch the battery with a small screwdriver or pen knife, rather than needing multiple tools.
Is it Easy to Install the Venom Red Dot Reflex Sight on a Shotgun?
The Venom Red Dot Reflex Sight was designed to fit on just about any rifle or shotgun. Not only is it a versatile reflex sight, but it is also incredibly easy to install. The sight uses an O-ring system, which helps to create a seal around all of the attachment points, so you will not have to worry about moisture becoming trapped between the sight and the mounting rail on your shotgun.
The fact that it only weighs 1.05 ounces means you will hardly notice the sight once it is attached to your shotgun. Vortex Optics even includes all of the screws required to mount the Venom Red Dot Reflex Sight, so you should not need to buy anything else. The screws were made to be as simple as possible to use, meaning you can even tighten and adjust them with a coin!
Not only will the sight be compatible with your specific shotgun, but you can also usually mount it in as little as five minutes. Although the Vortex Venom Red Dot Sight has some Problems, we think it is the ideal option for anyone that is looking for a quick and easy sight for their shotgun.
2) Bushnell RXS 100 Reflex Sight
While Bushnell might be better known for its high-quality binoculars, they also offer some outstanding scopes and sights, whether you need a shotgun scope, a rear sight, an iron sight, or a holographic sight. Its RXS 100 Reflex Sight takes the second spot on our list because it finds the perfect balance between performance, durability, and affordability.
For one low price, you get a rugged reflex sight that is designed to work with shotguns as well as rifles and even a wide array of pistols. One of the things we like the most about the RXS 100 Reflex Sight is how incredibly durable it is. This is because it has a solid aluminium construction, which helps protect the optical glass lenses and delicate internal components while also keeping the total weight at a minimum.
What Sets the Bushnell RXS 100 Reflex Sight Apart?
The RXS 100 has a true low-profile design, and it is also made to be compatible with any type of low-profile mount with a DeltaPoint footprint. This means that it will not be a hindrance if you want to shoot without using the sight.
Another thing that is really unique about the RXS 100 Reflex Sight is the optimized and oversized hood design, which helps with visibility on bright, sunny days. It effectively shades the lenses, so you do not have to worry about glare, even if you are shooting during peak sunshine hours.
How Long Does the Battery in the Bushnell RXS 100 Reflex Sight Last?
Bushnell understands that hunters and target shooters do not want anything stopping them while they are out with their firearm, so they make sure that they use long-lasting batteries in all of their sighting systems. The particular battery they chose for the RXS 100 actually lasts for over 5,000 hours on the middle power setting!
When you do need to change the battery, you do not need to remove the sight from your shotgun, as Bushnell went with a top-loading battery system.
Not only does it use a long-lasting battery, but the RXS 1000 Reflex Sight also creates a powerful MOA red dot without draining very much battery power at all. You can choose between eight different brightness settings, so you can use a lower brightness setting on overcast days or if you are shooting at night, as this will also help to preserve battery power.
If you are looking for a reflex sight for your shotgun that has an incredible lifespan, you simply cannot go wrong with the Bushnell RXS 100 Reflex Sight!
3) Sightmark Ultra Shot M-Spec Reflex Sight
The Sightmark Ultra Shot M-Spec Reflex Sight is another excellent option for anyone that is looking to add a sighting system to their shotgun. Like the previous two options, the Sightmark Ultra Shot is made from high-grade aluminum, so it is both durable and lightweight.
In terms of visibility, it has a double lens design, so you will always have a crystal-clear view of your target for a fast target acquisition. The red dot is encircled by a crosshair reticle, which makes it easy to accurately locate targets, even if they are moving.
How Do You Attach the Sightmark Ultra Shot M-Spec Reflex Sight?
The Sightmark Ultra Shot uses a locking, quick-detach mounting system. It allows you to quickly attach and detach the sight. It does not require the use of any tools, so you can quickly attach and detach it, even while you are out in the field.
One of the best features that the Sightmark Ultra Shot offers is its patented InterlokTM Adjustment System. Basically, it is an internal retention system that ensures all of your elevation and windage adjustments remain zeroed in, even after heavy recoil situations, which can certainly be an issue when you are using a shotgun.
Like the mounting system, adjustments can be made without the use of tools, which is really great if you are out hunting or spending time at the target range, as you will not have to worry about bringing tools with you.
How Does the Sightmark Ultra Shot Reflex Sight’s Illumination System Work?
The illumination system is incredibly user-friendly, as it has a 10-minute low battery indicator. The system is operated with a simple digital switch, so you can turn it off and on when required. If you forget to turn it off, it comes equipped with a 12-hour automatic shut-off so you will not have to worry about accidentally draining your battery.
Another interesting feature is the addition of a motion activation setting, which will only turn on the MOA red dot reticle when you move your weapon in a sudden motion. This is great if you are hoping to conserve battery power as it will only turn the sight on when you quickly jerk your shotgun up to your shoulder to take aim.
Overall, it is an excellent sight that offers some really unique features. The fact it is available in a standard black color, as well as a dark earth coloration, means it is easy to match it to your shotgun’s color scheme.
Why Should You Use a Sight on Your Shotgun?
Part of the reason why reflex sights and other types of aftermarket shotgun sights – like a shotgun red dot sight – are becoming more popular is the simple fact that they can help you hit moving targets. They also make it much easier to hit targets in low-light conditions.
In simple terms, a reflex sight can help you quickly acquire a target. It’s your best scope for when visibility is reduced due to fog, a lack of light, or your own movements and the movement of your target. You should also learn how to sight a shotgun the right way to improve your accuracy.
Fortunately, reflex sights are very low maintenance, especially compared to a traditional rifle scope. They do not need to be adjusted, and this kind of red dot optic tends to have very few moving parts. Since the red dot scope draws very little power, the batteries also last for many years. With the best shotgun sight designed to be extremely durable, you will not have to worry about damaging your sight if you accidentally drop it on the ground or knock it against an obstacle.
Finally, reflex sights that are designed to work with shotguns tend to be very affordable, so they can be considered a low-risk investment. You can always pick up a reflex sight at a budget-friendly price and try it out. If using a reflex sight is not for you, you can simply take the sight off and you will have lost very little money.
Overall, they are inexpensive and have the potential to greatly improve your target shooting accuracy, so why not try one out with your shotgun?
Frequently Asked Questions
Are red dots on shotguns worth it?
Is reflex sight better than red dot?
Can you mount a red dot on a shotgun?
Summary
Whether you just enjoy taking your shotgun to the range to work on your marksmanship or you use a shotgun for hunts, adding a reflex sight can really help you improve your accuracy. This is especially true if you are someone who enjoys using your shotgun at night, as the illumination the sight provides can really help you locate targets in even the lowest lighting.
For best results, always choose a reflex sight that is durable and waterproof, as some of the lower quality options cannot stand up to poor weather conditions or even the heavy recoil that a shotgun can generate. You will also want to choose an option that is easy to mount and adjust, as this will make sure that you have a positive experience installing and using the sight.
By choosing any of the sights we highlighted above, you can rest assured that you have chosen a high-quality sighting accessory that will last!
1. Vortex Optics Venom Red Dot Sight
- Solid Aluminium Housing for Incredible Durability
- Multi-Coated Lenses for a Wide Field of View
- Automatic Brightness Adjustment
2. Bushnell RXS 100 Reflex Sight
- Eight Adjustable Brightness Settings
- Works with Shotguns, Pistols, Rifles, and Other Types of Firearms
- Aircraft-Grade Aluminium Construction for Outstanding Durability
3. Sightmark Ultra Shot M-Spec Reflex Sight
- Built-in Sunshade for Use in Bright Conditions
- Quick-Detach Mounting
- Motion Sensing On/Off System with Automatic 12-Hour Shut-Off
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