Best Red Dot Sight: All Guns & Budgets [2023 Reviews]

Looking for the perfect red dot sight? You’re in the right place.

Getting this wrong could mean the difference between spending a lot of time and money on the wrong sight, or having it fail you when you need it most.

Luckily I’ve compiled a list that ticks all the crucial boxes, and don’t worry about breaking the bank, as there are fantastic options for any budget.

Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 – Best Red Dot Sight

Glass Clarity & Reticle

When it comes to glass clarity and reticle design, the Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 stands out, particularly considering its price bracket. 

With a 35mm objective lens, this sight allows plenty of light in, giving you brighter and sharper images than smaller lenses. The size of this lens is often underestimated, especially in changing light conditions.

What’s more, the sight’s 3 MOA red dot reticle strikes the right balance between size and precision that will get you on the target faster.

Durability

With a rugged, shockproof design, it’s demonstrated its resilience against unexpected bumps, drops, and the unpredictable roughness one can encounter outdoors. 

I’ve been known to be rough with my optics, and I dropped the TRS-25 a few times (on purpose) to see how it held up. 

It passed with flying colors. 

With dimensions of 2.4 inches in length and weighing just 3.7 oz, it’s compact yet robust, making it a lightweight companion that doesn’t compromise on durability. 

One feature that particularly gives me peace of mind is the O-ring sealed optics. On a few occasions, I’ve found myself caught in sudden downpours or near water bodies. This sealing ensures the sight remains bone-dry inside, proving its waterproof label correct.

Knowing it’s both waterproof and shockproof, I’ve always been confident in its performance in any circumstance.

Elevation & Windage Knobs

Now, the elevation and windage knobs of this sight stand out due to their user-centric design. 

They facilitate adjustments with precision. Each click equals to 0.5 inches at 100 yards, within a generous 70+ MOA range. 

I also just like how big the knob is and how it feels in my hands. Just the right amount of resistance to ensure you won’t miss a click.

Coupled with 11 brightness settings, you can fine-tune the red dot’s intensity, ensuring optimal visibility in many different lighting conditions. So, at any time, you can always clearly see the reticle.

Mounting & Rings

An integral cross-bolt rail mount allows the TRS-25 to be attached to firearms with a Picatinny rail or Weaver-type bases. What this adaptability means for you is that you can mount it on shotguns, handguns, and carbines with no problem.

Is It Worth It?

Bushnell has pulled off the near impossible by creating a nearly perfect red dot at a fraction of the price of the competitors. It is a world-class sight at a working man’s price.

Are there slightly higher-quality sights out there? Sure… but at 3-4 times the price. If price simply isn’t a concern for you, I would consider some of the more expensive red dots on the list, but this is the one that 95% of the people reading the article should buy.

Aimpoint Pro Patrol Rifle Optic – Best for AR-15

Glass Clarity & Reticle

The glass on this Aimpoint optic has a multi-coated optical coating that makes clarity unparalleled. 

This coating plays a vital role in preserving the brightness of the image and keeping the view clear of distortions – and it really makes a difference.

With an objective lens of 38mm, this sight ensures you get sharper images overall. The lens of the Pro is also finished with a multi-layer anti-reflex coat to reduce glare and provide a lifelike image.

It’s a must-have for anyone looking for a tactical optic. Simply put, this is a sight you can rely on. 

After decades of using red dot sights, I can confidently say this one is one of the clearest I’ve ever used… and that’s saying something. 

With 10 brightness settings, you can tailor the sight to your specific environment. The reticle will be perfect to use at any time of day, ensuring you’re always ready.

The 2 MOA dot is designed for quick target acquisition in close quarters and longer-range accuracy. Some like bigger dots, but I like the 2 MOA. Imagine having a 6 MOA blob blocking your view when accuracy is vital.

No thanks. 

With a tube diameter of 30mm and an objective lens diameter of 38mm, the sight balances field of view with compactness, allowing sufficient light without it being too bulky.

It feels just right… 

Durability

I’ve used a lot of different optics over the years, and I have to say, the Aimpoint PRO has been a standout in terms of durability. It’s why I made it the top pick for AR-15s. 

The hard anodized aluminum housing promises resilience against the rigorous demands of law enforcement or just about anything you can imagine. 

Let me put it this way: I think you’d have to beat it with a hammer for it to crack… 

For that reason, I’ve also used it as muzzleloader scope where it works surprisingly well.

The tough construction means it can endure physical abuse and environmental challenges and keep on going. Its waterproof nature is a testament to this, capable of resisting water up to an impressive depth of 150 ft. 

Unless you plan on taking it scuba diving, what that means for you is it’s 100% waterproof. 

Rain, snow, or whatever, no problem. 

Functionally, it’s a dependable companion with a battery life of 30,000 hours. 

Its dimensions – 5.2 in length, 2.8 in width, and 3.2 in height – are complemented by its weight of 11.6 oz, making it a balanced and reliable choice for those in the field.

It’s not the smallest or the lightest, but the trade-offs are worth it. 

Elevation & Windage Knobs

What you’ll get with the elevation and windage knobs of the Aimpoint PRO is precise tweaks. 

An adjustment click value of 0.6 inches at 100 yards means you can make meticulous shot refinements. This precision is pivotal for accurate targeting, especially at longer distances.

When writing this, I zeroed mine in at 25 yards and took some shots at various distances up to 100 yards. It was accurate all the way out. 

Mounting & Rings

The Aimpoint PRO comes with a QRP2 mount adapter so you can mount it to a Picatinny or Weaver rail out-of-the-box. And since it comes with a spacer, you’ll be able to co-witness with standard iron sights on AR-15/M16/M4 weapon platforms.

Is It Worth It?

If you don’t mind putting down a few more bucks for a genuinely quality optic, then yes. The Aimpoint PRO’s combination of durability, accuracy, ease of use, and battery life make it an excellent choice for AR-15 users seeking a reliable and high-quality red dot sight.

Primary Arms SLx MD-25 – Best Value For Your Money

Glass Clarity & Reticle

Now, when talking about the best red dot sights on the market, you can’t do that without mentioning the SLx MD-25. 

This optic features a precise 2 MOA red dot reticle with 12 brightness settings to work for any lighting condition and time of day. So, whether you’re dealing with the low lights of dusk or the bright sun of high noon, you’ll see both your reticle and target clearly.

Plus, the glass clarity is good, making target acquisition easy and efficient for shooters. You won’t need to deal with blurry or unclear views messing up your shots.

Durability

From my time with the SLx MD-25, I’ve gained immense respect for its robust design. This remarkable sight is crafted from durable aluminum. 

When I tried it on different firearms, from rifles to shotguns and handguns, it stood up against the recoil each time. And the resilience of this optic doesn’t stop there. 

I’ve been in situations where the weather turned unpredictable, but the SLx MD-25’s waterproof and shockproof features have never let me down. 

It’s not just shockproof, but also fog proof, ensuring my sight remains crystal clear regardless of the environment.

It also works great as a budget 3-gun scope as well.

This scope is designed to last as it’s equipped with a single battery that boasts a great battery life of 50,000 hours. Weighing in at a manageable 6.5 oz, it adds minimal weight to my gear, which is a huge plus for those long days in the field.

I’ve most likely shot about 1,000 rounds over the years with the sight. And from all that use, it’s proven to me how durable it is, especially when compared to some cheaper red dots on the market. 

Elevation & Windage Knobs

From my experience with the SLx MD-25, these knobs are incredibly easy to adjust, and every time I’ve made a tweak, it’s been both intuitive and precise. 

With a click value of 0.5 MOA, this micro red dot sight offers a level of adjustment that’s perfect for those looking for a balance between precision and ease of use. 

What’s even more impressive is its ability to hold zero impeccably. 

Mounting & Rings

Mounting the SLx MD-25 is simple. It’s compatible with most common mounting systems and can easily be co-witnessed with iron sights on AR-15 rifles, offering flexibility to suit a range of firearms.

Is It Worth It?

Considering its overall performance, durability, and affordability, the Primary Arms SLx MD-25 is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a budget red dot sight with quality for your firearm. 

Looking at the combination of features and its value, it’s no wonder why this optic a top contender and the best red dot sight available today.

We’ve also negotiated free shipping directly with the manufacturer. Just make sure to use any of the links on this page when making your purchase to have it automatically added to your order:

Trijicon MRO – Best High End Red Dot

Glass Clarity & Reticle

Now, there are tons of red dot sights on the market these days to sift through. But the Trijicon MRO is one that had genuinely caught my attention. 

Its glass clarity is impeccable, which means you get a clear view and crisp reticle that gets you on target faster. 

The sight boasts a reticle centered by a precise 2 MOA dot to enhance aiming accuracy. Its objective lens diameter is 25mm, so not as broad as other sights on this list but still allows ample light for a bright image. 

What’s more, the 8 illumination settings offer more than enough flexibility to adjust based on the surroundings and ensure the reticle always stands out.

Durability

On my hunts, the Trijicon MRO has consistently demonstrated its resilience. I always beat my optics up a bit when I’m testing them, and all you need to know is that this thing is built like a tank. 

Although it sports a sleek black finish, it’s not just about looks. The optic is constructed from 7075-T6 forged aluminum. This material choice ensures it’s robust enough to withstand the recoil of various ammunition types and different challenging environments. 

I’ve been particularly impressed with its water resistance – it can be submerged up to 100 ft and still function flawlessly. Now, I haven’t tested that out but I have used it in the rain while out hunting. No problems whatsoever.

Elevation & Windage Knobs

When using the optic in the field, I’ve found the elevation and windage knobs of the MRO to be quite tactile.

I also like how the biggest knob is the brightness setting, as this is the thing you’ll most likely be adjusting the most. 

The windage and elevation knobs make seamless MOA adjustments, with each click being precisely 0.5 MOA. This lets you fine-tune your aim with ease, increasing your likelihood of nailing those shots.

It does take a flathead, a coin, or just a thumbnail to make adjustments, but it doesn’t take much effort and will turn quite smoothly. 

Mounting & Rings

Several mounting options are available for the Trijicon MRO, including full co-witness and low mounts. The versatility of these options ensures you can find the best fit for your specific setup.

Is It Worth It?

If you’re seeking a high-end red dot sight, the Trijicon MRO offers great performance and reliability. While it may be more expensive than other options, the quality and durability of the MRO provide long-lasting value.

Sig Sauer Romeo 5 – Best Value for Your Money

Glass Clarity & Reticle

When I first laid eyes through the Sig Sauer Romeo 5, I was immediately impressed. 

Given its affordable price, you’d expect it to be a downgrade from the higher-end models, but the glass clarity is surprisingly remarkable. Its sharp 2 MOA red dot also stands out so you can quickly zero in on targets. 

With an objective diameter of 20mm, it provides a wide enough view, ensuring you don’t miss out on any action around the target. 

One feature I genuinely value is its varied illumination settings: 8 for daytime and an additional 2 specifically tailored for night vision. This versatility means whether I’m shooting in broad daylight or under the cover of darkness with night vision gear, I always have optimal reticle visibility. 

Durability

Weighing in at 5.10 ounces, it strikes a balance between heft and portability. 

The dimensions, with a length of 2.47 inches, width of 1.50 inches, and height of 1.52 inches, ensure it’s compact yet feels sturdy in hand.

An added assurance is its IPX7 rating. This means that it can handle temporary immersion in water – a feature I’ve found to be vital to have in case of unexpected downpours or when crossing wet terrains. 

While it might not be as indestructible as some higher-end models, its resilience in various tests has been commendable. 

Elevation & Windage Knobs

The elevation and windage knobs allow for tweaks in 0.5 MOA increments, the right precision needed for a red dot optic. 

The range of adjustments is also quite adequate. With both the elevation and windage offering an adjustment range of +/- 40 MOA, I’ve found plenty of flexibility in aligning my shots. 

Mounting & Rings

The Romeo 5 comes with a high-rise mount, making it easy to co-witness with iron sights on most rifle platforms. Its compatibility with various mounts and rings means you can rest assured you’ll get a secure and stable platform.

Is It Worth It?

If you’re seeking an affordable red dot sight that offers functionality and reliability, the Sig Sauer Romeo 5 is worth considering. Its features, performance, and price point make it a great value in the world of red dot sights.

STNGR Axiom II – Best Budget Pick

Glass Clarity & Reticle

The Axiom II’s glass clarity is very obviously superior to many optics in its range. The 2 MOA red dot reticle, augmented by 11 brightness settings (9 for daylight and 2 for night vision), offers adaptability for any light setting.

A feature it doesn’t have, however, is shake-awake technology. That means there’s no auto turn-on and shut-off function. 

It wasn’t particularly a big deal to me. However, it might not be for you if you need an optic that is instantly ready for use in unpredictable situations.

Durability

I’ve come to truly appreciate this very durable sight. Although I’ve picked this as my best budget red dot sight, don’t mistake that to mean it’s made from bad materials. 

The aluminum housing isn’t just for show. It’s what ensures this sight can stand up to the challenges of the wear and tear of daily use. 

Its dimensions – at a length of 2.5 inches, width of 1.7 inches, and height of 2 inches – make it compact and fit for use for various mounting options. Despite its sturdy build, it weighs in at a mere 3.8 oz, which doesn’t add unnecessary weight to your firearm.

But what’s equally important are the protective features that aren’t immediately visible. The Axiom II also boasts a water resistance level of IPX-7, meaning you don’t have to worry about getting caught in sudden downpours. 

I’ve tested its resilience and can say its “shockproof” label is well-earned. Its capability to absorb and withstand sudden jolts without compromising performance is something I find respectable. 

That said, there was one day when I was switching between three rifles in a single day when the mount tension knob on the QD mount came loose. It’s an easy fix – just needs to be tightened down with the included wrench. But it’s something to note if you plan to switch it between firearms very often.

Elevation & Windage Knobs

When I used the Axiom II, I was immediately drawn to its design, especially because of the elevation and windage knobs. 

These knobs aren’t unnecessarily big and allow for straightforward adjustments, so fine-tuning my aim in the field was a breeze.

The adjustment click value is 1 MOA, which means my aim adjusts by 1 inch at 100 yards. I’ve found that the change can be a bit too much at times at longer ranges, so it’s why I would recommend this red dot to be used within 50 yards. 

Mounting & Rings

The STNGR Axiom II bundle comes with a QD (quick-detach) mount, allowing for easy installation and removal. I’ve found this to be a very convenient feature as I like switching my optics around onto different guns.

Is It Worth It?

Given its affordability, uncomplicated design, and durability, the Axiom II makes an excellent budget pick for people seeking a reliable red dot sight with a convenient mounting option.

Trijicon RMR Type 2 – Best Red Dot for Pistols

Glass Clarity & Reticle

In my experience of using the Trijicon RMR Type 2, I’ve been particularly impressed with its clear, unobstructed view. 

Although the lens has an objective diameter of 16mm and is comparably less than most others, the peripheral vision you get with the reflex sight is unbeatable. 

The vivid, sharp 3.25 MOA red dot makes for an ideal aiming point, facilitating pinpoint accuracy even for those more distant targets. This blend of features makes it an impeccable choice for shooters prioritizing precision.

This large MOA dot also makes it perfect for a shotgun scope or for a pistol. For that reason, you can also see the Trijicon RMR featured in our best pistol scope guide.

What’s more, it comes with an auto-adjustable reticle that automatically changes the brightness of the red dot according to your environment. 

I’ve found this to be so useful. I no longer had to fiddle around with the brightness or worry about a too-bright reticle that covers the target when it gets darker out.

Durability

Having used the RMR Type 2 extensively, I can vouch for its exceptional durability. Crafted from forged aluminum, it’s built for resilience in even the most challenging conditions. 

The unique patented housing design is especially remarkable, efficiently diverting impacts and safeguarding the delicate lens. Its compact dimensions, with a length of just 1.8 inches and a weight of 1.2 oz, will minimize bulk addition to your gear. 

I’ve found its waterproofing impressive, capable of withstanding depths up to 66 feet. Plus, its shockproof nature ensures stability against abrupt shocks. 

Overall, these elements synergize to deliver an optic that seamlessly marries reliability with enduring performance.

Elevation & Windage Knobs

I particularly appreciate the simplicity and precision of its elevation and windage knobs. They’re designed for effortless adjustments. 

What’s more, the 1 MOA per click adjustment is intuitive, ensuring every turn brings me closer to a perfect shot. The sight will need just a common coin or screwdriver to make those adjustments.

Mounting & Rings

Mounting the RMR Type 2 is hassle-free and versatile. Designed for broad compatibility, it fits many different firearms and mounting systems.

Whether you’re attaching it directly to a firearm slide or using a fitting mounting plate, the process is easy and efficient. This adaptability makes it a top choice for many enthusiasts.

Is It Worth It?

If you’d like the versatility and high quality of the Trijicon RMR Type 2, it’s definitely worth it. It can fit on multiple firearms seamlessly, and though it’s priced at a premium, its exceptional durability and quick target acquisition justify the cost. 

For dedicated marksmen, it’s undeniably a value-rich investment, delivering on both reliability and precision.

Why Use a Red Dot Sight?

Eye Relief

Red dot sights give you the comfort of substantial eye relief, making shooting a more comfortable experience. This means you have more flexibility in how you position your eye in relation to the sight.

Gone are the days of being confined to a specific distance for clarity, as with traditional scopes. With red dots, you can maintain a perfect sight picture and land accurate shots, no matter how far your eye is from the optic.

Parallax Free

Red dot sights are often celebrated for their parallax-free capabilities. This means that even if your eye moves off-center or is not perfectly aligned with the sight, the dot will consistently point to the impact zone. 

In other optics, a mere shift in eye position might lead to an aiming error, but with red dots, this issue is virtually eliminated. 

1x Magnification

As red dot sights have no magnification, the target’s representation remains true to size. Because of this, you can gauge distances more accurately and make quicker decisions. It’s why this optic is known for its close-range tactical accuracy.

Co-Witness

Co-witnessing aligns a red dot sight with traditional iron sights on firearms. This setup offers redundancy – if the red dot fails or the battery dies, shooters can revert to iron sights. 

Now, there are two types – absolute co-witness and lower one-third. 

In absolute co-witnessing, the red dot perfectly aligns with the iron sights, offering a unified sight picture. It also helps those transitioning from traditional iron sights to optics, lessening that learning curve.

Lower one-third co-witnessing is when the optic is mounted slightly higher so that the iron sight is in the lower one-third of the sight picture. This allows you to see over the fixed sight as it offers an uncluttered view.

Both Eyes Open

Employing a red dot sight has revolutionized the shooting experience for many, notably in the practice of shooting with both eyes open.

Keeping both eyes open allows you to maintain full situational awareness, granting a panoramic field of view. This is especially crucial in dynamic environments where making quick decisions is key. 

By maintaining peripheral vision, you can better detect movement, judge distances, and react promptly to potential threats. Moreover, it reduces the strain on the eye, ensuring comfort during prolonged periods of aiming and shooting. (Reference: Red Dots)

How to Pick the Best Red Dot for You?

Choosing the right red dot sight can seem daunting. So, here are some tips to consider:

Size Matters: Smaller red dots work well on handguns or compact rifles. Larger red dots, on the other hand, are better suited for rifles, shotguns, or hunting.

Dot clarity: A crisp and precise red dot is essential for longer-distance shooting. Look for red dot sights designed with 2-3 MOA dots to achieve better accuracy. That said, there are benefits to using 6 MOA dots, but that’ll depend on you. Here’s why:

Battery Life: Don’t overlook battery life. Extended runtimes on your red dot sight can be quite helpful for practical use.

Mounting Options: Make sure the sight comes with compatible mounting options for your particular firearm.

Remember, trust your instincts and do your research when selecting the perfect red dot for your needs. In the end, the perfect red dot sight will enhance your shooting experience, whether you’re a seasoned marksman or a beginner.

Red Dot Sight Reticle Options

Single Red Dot

The single red dot stands as one of the most iconic and basic reticle designs available. Its central feature is a solitary dot positioned in the sight’s middle. 

Its minimalistic design ensures that shooters can focus on their target without any distractions, making it a favorite among purists who appreciate simplicity and efficiency in their equipment.

Circle Red Dot

Merging the simplicity of a single dot with the advantage of a peripheral circle, the circle dot reticle stands out in dynamic shooting situations. 

The encompassing circle assists in rapid target identification, especially in close quarters. As for the central dot, it ensures pinpoint accuracy, making it an effective blend of speed and precision.

Multi Red Dot

Diverse shooting scenarios demand versatile reticle options, and the multi-red dot delivers precisely that. It boasts multiple dots or hash marks aligned vertically, each one corresponding to a specific distance. 

Whether you’re engaged in competitive shooting, hunting, or any situation that needs swift adjustments for different distances, this reticle emerges as a top contender.

Horseshoe/Dot

The horseshoes/dot reticle is a popular choice among tactical shooters because of its design that creates a harmonious blend of rapid acquisition and precision aiming.

The horseshoe encircling the main dot helps with quick target engagement, especially in fast-paced scenarios. Simultaneously, the central dot provides a clear focus point, ensuring that the shooter’s accuracy remains uncompromised.

Crosshair

The crosshair reticle harks back to traditional shooting optics, where intersecting lines form a cross, serving as the aiming point. It naturally draws the eye into the center of the cross and is easily visible even against busy backgrounds.

Chevron

Last but not least, the chevron reticle offers a unique visual element – an inverted ‘V’. This design not only ensures rapid target acquisition but also guarantees that the target remains largely unobscured. 

Shooters can utilize the chevron’s tip for precise shots, while its expansive, uncluttered design maintains a clear sight picture, regardless of the situation at hand.

Comparison Table

Name	Best For	Reticle
Primary Arms SLx MD-25	Best Red Dot Sight	2 MOA dot
Aimpoint Pro Patrol Rifle Optic	AR-15	2 MOA dot
Bushnell Trophy TRS-25	Under $100	3 MOA dot
Trijicon MRO	High End Red Dot	2 MOA dot
Sig Sauer Romeo 5	Value For Your Money	2 MOA dot
STNGR Axiom II	Budget Pick	2 MOA dot
Trijicon RMR Type 2	Pistols	3.25 MOA dot

Conflict of Interest Disclosure

As a writer who values trust from readers, I strive for complete transparency and want to emphasize I have no affiliations with any of the red dot sight manufacturers mentioned. The focus is purely on delivering unbiased information.

The emphasis is placed on the products themselves, rather than the companies that produce them. My opinions are formed through careful research and firsthand experience, and any claims made by manufacturers are rigorously verified. There are no sponsorships or endorsements influencing the content.

As you read, please know that the goal is to inform, not to push any particular products. The article’s aim is to share valuable information about the best red dot sights currently available. 

For more reading, I’d suggest you take a look at our comparison between reflex scopes vs red dot sights and our piece on the top prism optic of 2023.

FAQs

What is an MOA dot?

An MOA (Minute of Angle) dot refers to the size of the red dot reticle in a sight. Smaller MOA dots provide better precision, while larger dots offer quicker target acquisition.

How much should you spend on a red dot sight?

How much you should spend on a red dot sight depends on whether you want features like motion-activated illumination and prefer a higher overall quality. Expect to spend between $80 for budget options and $400+ for higher-end models.

What is the best red dot to put on a AR-15?

The best red dot to put on a AR-15 is the Sig Sauer Romeo 5. It’s a popular choice due to its crisp dot, 40K-hour battery life, shake-awake feature, and affordability.

How many yards is a red dot sight good for?

Red dot sights are typically good for up to 100–200 yards. However, accuracy and effective range may vary depending on the user’s skill and specific sight model.

What red dot do Navy SEALs use?

The red dot that Navy SEALs are known to use is the Aimpoint CompM5, a highly durable and reliable red dot sight with long battery life and excellent performance in various conditions.

Our Top Pick: Primary Arms SLx MD-25

References

1. Vortex Nation, What’s the Best Optic for Your AR? Let’s Talk Red Dots. Retrieved from https://vortexoptics.com/blog/whats-the-best-optic-for-your-ar-lets-talk-red-dots.html