what are red dot sights?
At their core, red dot sights are optical aiming devices that project a red (or sometimes green) dot onto a lens. This dot, the “reticle,” serves as your aiming point. The beauty of a red dot sight is that it’s typically parallax-free. This means that, regardless of your eye position behind the sight, the dot will always appear to be on the target (within the designed parameters, of course). This contrasts with iron sights, where you need to perfectly align the front and rear sights with your target. Red dot sights offer a single focal plane for your eye, which significantly simplifies the aiming process and reduces eye strain.
why use a red dot sight? (benefits)
The advantages of using a red dot sight are numerous. Here’s a deeper dive into why they’ve become so popular:
faster target acquisition
This is perhaps the most significant advantage. With a red dot sight, your focus remains primarily on the target. Simply bring the firearm up, and the dot appears, ready to be placed on the target. This is drastically faster than aligning iron sights, allowing you to react more quickly in dynamic situations.
improved accuracy at various ranges
Red dot sights typically allow for better accuracy compared to iron sights. The clear sight picture and ease of aiming contribute to consistent shot placement. While iron sights can work well at short ranges, red dots maintain their effectiveness at further distances.
enhanced situational awareness
Because you’re focusing on the target, your peripheral vision isn’t obscured by iron sights. You can maintain better awareness of your surroundings, crucial for both defensive scenarios and recreational shooting.
user-friendly for all experience levels
Red dot sights are incredibly easy to learn. The intuitive design makes them suitable for shooters of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned marksmen. The simple process of aligning the dot promotes faster learning curves.
versatility
Red dot sights are incredibly adaptable. They can be mounted on a variety of firearms, from handguns and rifles to shotguns, making them a versatile option for many different shooting activities and firearm configurations.
choosing the right red dot sight
Choosing the right red dot sight for your needs depends on several factors. Understanding the various types and features will ensure you select the best option for your shooting style and the intended use of your firearm.
types of red dot sights
tube-style
These are the most traditional type, resembling a small telescope. They offer a enclosed lens and housing, often offering robust protection from the elements. Tube-style sights tend to be durable and are frequently seen on rifles and carbines.
reflex/open sights
These sights feature a more open design, with a housing that sits above the firearm. The lens is typically tilted to reflect the red dot. This design offers a wide field of view, making them ideal for faster target acquisition at close to moderate ranges.
miniature red dot sights (mrds)
Designed for handguns, rifles, and shotguns, mrds sights are compact, lightweight, and optimized for quick target acquisition. Their small size makes them ideal for concealed carry or any situation where a smaller optic is preferable.
key features to consider
durability and waterproofing
Red dot sights are subjected to rough handling and weather. Look for models made of high-quality materials, and that are rugged and durable, and ideally waterproof or water-resistant. This is especially important if you plan to use your firearm outdoors.
battery life
Consider the advertised battery life. Extended battery life means fewer battery changes, which is essential. Most sights now use common battery types like cr2032, and will last for thousands of hours.
reticle options
While most use a simple red dot, some offer variations like different dot sizes (moa measurement of the dot size), or alternative shapes like a circle dot, or a crosshair. Select one that feels comfortable and easy to use for your eyes.
adjustability
Many red dot sights offer adjustable brightness settings, allowing you to customize the dot intensity to suit various lighting conditions. Look for sights that offer a wide range of brightness levels.
size and weight
The size and weight of the sight can impact the balance and handling of your firearm. Consider the overall profile and weight of the sight, particularly if you’re using it on a handgun or a lightweight rifle.
mounting system compatibility
Ensure the sight is compatible with your firearm’s mounting system. Many sights are designed to mount on standard picatinny rails or dovetail mounts. Verify that you have the necessary base or adapter plates.
brands and budget
Popular brands like Aimpoint, Trijicon, Holosun, Sig Sauer, and Vortex offer a wide range of red dot sights at different price points. Consider your budget and your intended use of the sight. Higher-end sights generally offer increased durability, battery life, and features, but excellent options exist at every price point.
mounting your red dot sight
Proper mounting is crucial for accuracy and reliability. Here’s how to mount your red dot sight successfully:
necessary tools and components
You’ll need the following tools and components:
- screwdrivers: Phillips head and/or flathead, as required by your mount and the screws on the red dot sight.
- torque wrench (recommended): A torque wrench ensures you tighten the screws to the manufacturer’s specifications, preventing damage to the sight or mount, and also ensures stability.
- mounting hardware: This includes rings, bases, adapter plates, screws, and anything else needed to attach the sight to your firearm. This will vary depending on your firearm.
step-by-step mounting instructions
- preparing the firearm: If you are replacing existing sights, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for removing them. This might involve removing screws or pins. Ensure the firearm is unloaded and the safety is on.
- attaching the base or mount: If your red dot sight requires a base or mount, install it on the firearm according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Tighten the screws to the recommended torque specifications.
- mounting the red dot sight: Attach the red dot sight to the base or mount using the provided screws. Again, use a torque wrench to tighten the screws to the manufacturer’s specifications. Over-tightening can damage the sight or mount.
- ensuring proper alignment: Before heading to the range, verify that the red dot sight appears level and straight.
zeroing your red dot sight
Zeroing is the process of adjusting the red dot sight to align the dot with the point of impact of your ammunition. This is a critical step for achieving accurate shots.
what is zeroing?
Zeroing, also referred to as “sighting in,” ensures that where the red dot appears on your target is where your bullet will hit at a given distance. It’s adjusting the internal mechanism of the sight to make it align with the bullet’s trajectory.
preparation
- safe shooting range guidelines: Always adhere to the safety rules of the shooting range. Never point your firearm at anything you’re not willing to destroy.
- choose an appropriate target and distance: A standard target with a clear aiming point is recommended. A distance of 25 yards is common for rifles, while 10-15 yards is often used for handguns.
- ensure firearm safety: Before handling any firearm, verify that it’s unloaded. Confirm the safety is engaged.
step-by-step zeroing procedure
- set up your target: Place the target at your chosen distance.
- initial sighting and first shot: From a stable shooting position (bench rest), carefully aim at the target. Squeeze the trigger smoothly, and fire your first shot.
- adjusting for windage and elevation: Examine the point of impact. Determine how far your shot deviated from the aiming point. Most red dot sights have adjustment dials for windage (left/right) and elevation (up/down). Make small adjustments to the dials based on the deviation of your shots. Remember, in most cases, “right” and “up” on the adjustment dials will move the point of impact in those respective directions.
- firing groups of shots and adjusting as needed: Fire a group of shots (e.g., 3-5) and observe the point of impact again. Continue to make small adjustments to the windage and elevation until the group of shots consistently hits the center of the target.
- confirming zero: Once you think your adjustments are correct, fire a final group of shots to confirm your zero. The shots should consistently hit your aiming point.
- documenting your zero: Keep a record of the distance you zeroed at, the type of ammunition you used, and any notes on the windage or elevation adjustments. This information is valuable for future shooting sessions.
tips for zeroing
- use a stable shooting position: A bench rest or a sandbagged position provides the best stability, leading to more accurate adjustments.
- focus on the target and the dot: Concentrate on maintaining a clear sight picture and a smooth trigger pull.
- make small, precise adjustments: Over-adjusting can lead to frustration. Make small adjustments to your dials, then fire a few more shots to see the effect.
shooting techniques with red dot sights
Mastering these techniques will help you shoot effectively with a red dot sight.
sight picture
- eye relief and alignment: Maintain the correct eye relief (the distance between your eye and the red dot sight) to obtain a clear sight picture. With reflex sights, alignment is less critical than with tube-style sights, but you still want to ensure you can see the dot clearly.
- focus on the target, not the dot: Your primary focus should always be on the target. The red dot serves as the aiming point.
- importance of finding the dot: If the dot is not immediately visible when you bring your firearm up, practice your presentation and draw from holster or ready position, to get the dot in your sight picture faster.
stance and grip
- proper shooting stance: Use a stable and comfortable stance, such as the isosceles stance (for handguns) or a squared-up stance (for rifles).
- firm and consistent grip: Maintain a firm but relaxed grip on your firearm. This helps with recoil management and shot-to-shot consistency.
trigger control
- smooth and consistent trigger pull: Squeeze the trigger smoothly and consistently, without jerking. This is a critical skill for accuracy.
- avoiding trigger jerk: Jerking the trigger can cause the muzzle to move, resulting in inaccurate shots. Focus on a smooth, controlled trigger pull.
breathing and follow-through
- proper breathing techniques: Breathe slowly and steadily while aiming, pausing briefly before squeezing the trigger.
- importance of follow-through: Maintain your sight picture and hold your position after the shot. This allows the recoil to dissipate and helps prevent you from flinching, leading to better results.
advanced shooting techniques (optional)
- engaging moving targets: Practice leading the target, placing the red dot slightly ahead of the moving object to compensate for the bullet’s travel time.
- shooting at varying distances: The bullet’s trajectory will arc downward over distance. Some sights have holdover charts or adjustable turrets for these situations.
- using a magnifier: A magnifier attaches behind the red dot sight to magnify the image. This can be helpful for shooting at longer ranges.
troubleshooting
Here are some common issues and solutions:
dot not appearing
- check battery: Replace the battery if it’s dead.
- clean the lens: Ensure the lens is clean and free of debris.
dot fading or flashing
- battery issues: A weak battery might cause the dot to fade or flash.
- environmental conditions: Extreme temperatures can sometimes affect the dot’s performance.
impact deviation
- check mounting: Ensure the sight is securely mounted.
- re-zero the sight: Re-zero the sight to correct for any inconsistencies.
conclusion
The transition to using red dot sights can significantly enhance your shooting experience. These sights simplify the aiming process, improve accuracy, and increase your speed on target. By understanding how to choose, mount, zero, and effectively use a red dot sight, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a more confident and accurate shooter.
encourage practice
The key to mastery is consistent practice. Regularly practice your shooting techniques with your red dot sight, including drawing from your holster, presenting, and target acquisition. The more you practice, the more natural and instinctive the process will become.
final thoughts and encouragement
Shooting with a red dot sight is a rewarding experience. Enjoy the journey of improving your skills, and always prioritize safety. With dedication and practice, you will see significant improvement in your shooting ability.
safety tips and best practices
- always treat every firearm as if it is loaded.
- never point your firearm at anything you are not willing to destroy.
- keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire.
- be sure of your target and what is beyond it.
- wear appropriate eye and ear protection.
- be aware of your surroundings.
- handle firearms responsibly and follow all applicable laws and regulations.
