Hey there, fellow hunters and shooting enthusiasts! Joel Mccartan here, and boy, do I have a treat for you today. We’re diving deep into the world of reflex sights, and let me tell you, the options for 2024 are looking sweeter than ever. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started with optics, this guide is going to break down everything you need to know about the best reflex sights on the market.
Now, I’ve been using reflex sights for years, and I can’t tell you how many times they’ve saved my bacon out in the field. There’s nothing quite like that moment when a buck steps into view, and you can instantly get your sights on target. But with so many choices out there, how do you know which one is right for you? Well, grab your favorite beverage and settle in, because we’re about to break it all down.
What Exactly is a Reflex Sight?
Before we jump into our top picks, let’s quickly cover what a reflex sight actually is. In simple terms, it’s an optical device that allows you to superimpose an illuminated reticle (usually a red dot) onto your target. The magic happens through a clever bit of tech that reflects the reticle off a specially coated lens, making it appear to float in front of your eye.
The beauty of reflex sights is their simplicity. Unlike traditional scopes, there’s no need to worry about eye relief or precise eye alignment. Just put the dot on your target and squeeze the trigger. It’s fast, it’s intuitive, and it can seriously up your accuracy game.
Reflex sights have been around since 1975 when the Swedish company Aimpoint AB introduced the first “electronic” red dot sight. Since then, they’ve become increasingly popular among hunters, competitive shooters, and even law enforcement and military personnel. The reason? They offer unparalleled speed and accuracy for close to medium-range shooting.
Red Dot vs. Reflex: Clearing Up the Confusion
Now, here’s where things can get a little confusing. You’ll often hear people use “red dot” and “reflex sight” interchangeably, but there is a subtle difference. All red dot sights are reflex sights, but not all reflex sights are red dots. Confusing, right? Let me break it down:
Red Dot Sights: These are typically tube-shaped with a fully enclosed design. They use LED technology to project a red dot onto a lens. The enclosed design offers better protection against the elements, which can be crucial in harsh environments. Red dot sights often have a more limited field of view compared to open reflex sights, but they tend to be more durable.
Open Reflex Sights: These have a more open design, often looking like a small window. They can use various reticle colors and shapes. The open design allows for a wider field of view, which can be advantageous for situational awareness. However, they may be more susceptible to debris or weather conditions affecting the emitter.
Holographic Sights: While not strictly reflex sights, holographic sights like the EOTech models use similar principles and are often grouped with reflex sights. They project a holographic reticle between two panes of glass, offering a wide field of view and complex reticle options.
Each type has its strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice depends on your specific needs and shooting style. Now, let’s dive into the good stuff – our top picks for 2024!
Vortex Optics Venom Red Dot Sight
Kicking off our list is a personal favorite of mine, the Vortex Venom. This little powerhouse has been my go-to for both hunting and range days. The Venom features a 3 MOA dot, which I find to be the sweet spot for versatility. It’s small enough for precision work but big enough for quick target acquisition.
What really sets the Venom apart is its crystal-clear glass and wide field of view. I can’t stress enough how important this is when you’re tracking a moving target or trying to maintain situational awareness. The 10 brightness settings are a godsend, allowing you to dial in the perfect intensity whether you’re shooting under the blazing sun or in low-light conditions.
The lightweight aluminum construction means you’ll barely notice it on your firearm, and the easy-to-use top-load battery compartment is a thoughtful touch. I’ve had mine mounted on my AR for over a year now, and it’s never let me down. Whether I’m taking down hogs or running drills at the range, the Venom delivers consistent performance.
One thing to note – while the Venom is water-resistant, it’s not fully waterproof. If you’re planning on using it in extremely wet conditions, you might want to consider a more rugged option. But for most hunting and shooting scenarios, the Venom is more than up to the task.
Trijicon RMR Type 2
If you’re looking for something that can take a beating and keep on ticking, the Trijicon RMR (Ruggedized Miniature Reflex) Type 2 is your huckleberry. This thing is built like a tank, and it’s got the track record to prove it. The RMR has been a favorite among law enforcement and military personnel for years, and for good reason.
The RMR Type 2 features an aircraft-grade aluminum housing that’s virtually indestructible. I’ve seen guys drop their RMRs, submerge them in water, and even run them over (accidentally, of course), and these little beasts just keep working. The fully sealed design prevents moisture intrusion, making it a great choice for hunters who don’t let a little rain stop them.
One of the things I love about the RMR is its versatility. It’s available in various dot sizes (3.25, 6.5, or 9 MOA), allowing you to choose the best option for your shooting style and typical engagement distances. The adjustable LED offers both automatic and manual brightness settings, ensuring your dot is always visible without being overpowering.
The RMR Type 2 also features an improved battery contact and electronics to eliminate the flickering issues that some users experienced with the original RMR. This attention to detail and continuous improvement is why Trijicon remains at the top of the game.
Now, I’ll be honest – the RMR isn’t cheap. But in my experience, it’s worth every penny. If you’re looking for a reflex sight that you can rely on in any condition, the RMR Type 2 should be at the top of your list.
Holosun 510C
Now, if you want features galore without breaking the bank, the Holosun 510C is where it’s at. This open reflex sight packs some serious tech into a surprisingly affordable package. I recently mounted one of these on my buddy’s shotgun for turkey season, and let me tell you, it made a world of difference.
The 510C features a multi-reticle system that allows you to switch between a 2 MOA dot, a 65 MOA circle, or both. This versatility is fantastic – use the dot for precision shots, or the circle for faster target acquisition in close quarters. The large field of view and crisp reticle made tracking those gobblers a breeze.
One of the standout features of the 510C is its power system. It uses a combination of solar power and battery, with the solar panel kicking in when there’s enough ambient light. This “Solar Failsafe” technology means you’re less likely to find yourself with a dead sight at a crucial moment. And with a battery life of up to 50,000 hours (that’s over 5 years!), you won’t be changing batteries very often.
The 510C also features Holosun’s “Shake Awake” technology, which puts the sight to sleep when it’s not moving and instantly wakes it up when you pick up your firearm. It’s a small touch, but one that can significantly extend your battery life.
Durability is another strong point for the 510C. The housing is made from titanium alloy, which offers excellent strength while keeping the weight down. The sight is also IPX8 rated, meaning it can withstand being submerged in water up to 1 meter deep.
One potential downside of the 510C is its size – it’s a bit larger than some other reflex sights. However, I find that the extra size is a worthwhile trade-off for the features and durability you get. Plus, the wide field of view is a significant advantage in many shooting scenarios.
EOTech EXPS2
Alright, I know what you’re thinking – “Joel, that’s not a reflex sight!” But hear me out. While technically a holographic sight, the EOTech EXPS2 deserves a spot on this list for its lightning-fast target acquisition and unparalleled performance in close to medium-range shooting.
The EXPS2 features EOTech’s renowned 68 MOA ring with a 1 MOA dot reticle. This configuration allows for incredibly fast target acquisition at close range while still providing the precision needed for longer shots. The large, rectangular field of view is a joy to use, especially in dynamic shooting situations.
I’ve used this bad boy in 3-gun competitions, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer. The speed at which you can get on target and transition between multiple targets is incredible. The side buttons for brightness adjustment are well-placed and easy to use, even with gloves on.
One of the standout features of the EXPS2 is its compatibility with night vision devices. While not everyone needs this capability, it’s a significant advantage for those who do any kind of low-light or nighttime shooting.
The EXPS2 is built to withstand serious abuse. It’s waterproof up to 33 feet and can operate in temperatures ranging from -40°F to 150°F. The hood is made from aircraft-grade aluminum, providing excellent protection for the optics.
Now, there are a couple of potential downsides to consider. First, the battery life isn’t as long as some other options on this list – you’ll get about 600 hours of use at a mid-range brightness setting. Second, the EXPS2 is on the heavier side compared to some other reflex sights.
However, if you’re looking for unmatched speed and versatility, especially for close-quarters use, the EOTech EXPS2 is hard to beat. It’s a favorite among military and law enforcement for good reason.
Sig Sauer Romeo5
For those on a budget who don’t want to sacrifice quality, the Sig Romeo5 is a solid choice. I’ve recommended this sight to several of my hunting buddies who were just getting into the reflex sight game, and they’ve all been impressed. It’s a great entry-level option that punches well above its weight class.
The Romeo5 features a 2 MOA red dot, which I find to be a good all-around size for most shooting applications. It’s small enough for precision work but big enough to pick up quickly in fast-paced scenarios.
One of the standout features of the Romeo5 is its MOTAC (Motion Activated Illumination) system. This clever bit of tech turns the sight on when it detects motion and shuts it off when it’s stationary. It’s a great battery-saving feature that means you’re less likely to pick up your gun and find a dead sight.
Speaking of battery life, the Romeo5 boasts an impressive 40,000+ hour run time on a single battery. That’s over 4 years of continuous use! In practice, with the MOTAC system, you can expect the battery to last even longer.
The Romeo5 is also built to withstand the elements. It has an IPX-7 waterproof rating, meaning it can withstand immersion in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes. It’s also fog-proof and shockproof, so it can handle whatever you throw at it in the field.
One thing to note is that the Romeo5 doesn’t have the same ultra-clear glass as some of the more expensive options on this list. However, for its price point, the clarity is more than adequate for most shooting scenarios.
Overall, the Sig Romeo5 offers an impressive combination of features, durability, and affordability. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to dip their toes into the world of reflex sights without breaking the bank.
Aimpoint Micro T-2
When it comes to reliability, it’s hard to beat Aimpoint. The Swedish company has been at the forefront of red dot technology since they introduced the first electronic red dot sight back in 1975, and the Micro T-2 continues that legacy of excellence.
I’ve had the pleasure of using one of these during a hog hunting trip in Texas, and it performed flawlessly. The clarity of the glass and the crispness of the 2 MOA dot made those nighttime shots a breeze. The Micro T-2 features 8 daylight settings and 4 night vision compatible settings, giving you plenty of options to dial in the perfect brightness for any lighting condition.
One of the most impressive features of the Micro T-2 is its battery life. With a single CR2032 battery, this sight can run continuously for up to 50,000 hours. That’s over 5 years! In practice, you’ll probably change the battery long before it actually dies, but it’s nice to know you can rely on it for extended periods.
The Micro T-2 is also built to withstand extreme conditions. It’s submersible to 25 meters and can operate in temperatures ranging from -50°F to 160°F. The sight is also compatible with all generations of night vision devices, making it a versatile option for those who do any kind of low-light shooting.
One potential downside of the Micro T-2 is its price – it’s one of the more expensive options on this list. However, in my experience, you get what you pay for when it comes to optics, and the Micro T-2 is worth every penny if you need a sight that you can absolutely rely on in any condition.
Leupold DeltaPoint Pro
Leupold has been in the optics game for a long time, and their DeltaPoint Pro shows why they’re still at the top of their game. What I love about this sight is its versatility – I’ve used it on everything from pistols to rifles, and it always delivers.
The DeltaPoint Pro features a wide field of view and a crystal-clear lens that provides an excellent sight picture. The motion sensor technology is particularly neat, automatically turning on when you pick up your firearm and shutting off when it’s not in use. This helps conserve battery life while ensuring your sight is always ready when you need it.
One of the standout features of the DeltaPoint Pro is its tool-less top-loading battery compartment. This might seem like a small thing, but trust me, when you’re out in the field and need to change your battery, you’ll appreciate not having to dig around for a tiny screwdriver.
The DeltaPoint Pro is available with either a 2.5 MOA dot or a 7.5 MOA delta-shaped reticle. Personally, I prefer the dot for its versatility, but the delta reticle can be great for rapid target acquisition in close-quarters scenarios.
Durability is another strong point for the DeltaPoint Pro. The housing is made from aircraft-grade aluminum, and the sight is waterproof and fog proof. It’s also compatible with night vision devices, adding to its versatility.
One potential downside of the DeltaPoint Pro is that it can be a bit sensitive to very bright light conditions. In direct sunlight, you might find yourself needing to crank up the brightness to maintain a clear sight picture. However, this is a minor issue that’s easily overcome with the adjustable brightness settings.
Overall, the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro is a versatile, durable, and high-performing reflex sight that’s suitable for a wide range of applications. Whether you’re mounting it on a pistol for competition shooting or on a rifle for hunting, it’s up to the task.
Burris FastFire 3
Here’s another great option for those looking for quality without breaking the bank. The Burris FastFire 3 is a compact, lightweight reflex sight that offers impressive performance at a reasonable price point.
I’ve got one of these mounted on my .22 plinking rifle, and it’s been a blast (pun intended). The FastFire 3 is available with either a 3 MOA or 8 MOA dot. I opted for the 3 MOA version for its versatility, but the 8 MOA dot could be a great choice for those prioritizing speed over precision.
One of the features I really appreciate about the FastFire 3 is its automatic brightness sensor. This clever bit of tech adjusts the brightness of the dot based on ambient light conditions. It’s particularly handy when moving between sunny and shaded areas, as you don’t have to manually adjust the brightness.
The FastFire 3 also features a low battery indicator, which is a nice touch. There’s nothing worse than picking up your firearm only to find your sight is dead, so having a warning when the battery is getting low is much appreciated.
Durability is always a concern with budget-friendly optics, but Burris has done a good job with the FastFire 3. It’s waterproof and shockproof, capable of withstanding the recoil from most firearms. The lenses are coated to resist scratches and provide clear, bright views even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions.
One potential downside of the FastFire 3 is its battery life. While not terrible, it doesn’t quite match up to some of the longer-lasting options on this list. However, the automatic shut-off feature helps conserve battery life when the sight isn’t in use.
Overall, the Burris FastFire 3 offers a lot of bang for your buck. It’s a great choice for those new to reflex sights or for use on a secondary firearm where you might not want to invest in a top-of-the-line option.
Meprolight Foresight
Now, if you want to step into the future, check out the Meprolight Foresight. This isn’t your grandpa’s reflex sight – it’s packed with high-tech features that push the boundaries of what we expect from an optic.
I had the chance to play with one of these at SHOT Show, and let me tell you, it’s like something out of a sci-fi movie. The Foresight features a heads-up display that can show you all sorts of information beyond just your reticle. We’re talking about battery life, leveling, and even a shot counter.
But the real game-changer is the smartphone app integration. You can connect the Foresight to your phone via Bluetooth and access a whole host of features. Want to switch reticles? No problem – there are 20 different pre-loaded reticle options to choose from. Need to store multiple zeroes for different loads or firearms? The Foresight can handle up to 10 different profiles.
One of the coolest features is the built-in rangefinder. While it’s not going to replace a dedicated rangefinding unit for long-distance shooting, it’s incredibly handy for quick range estimation in the field.
The Foresight also features what Meprolight calls “Recoil Activated Display” or RAD. This system conserves battery life by only activating the display when it detects movement, similar to the shake-awake technology in some other sights.
Now, all this technology does come with a few trade-offs. The Foresight is larger and heavier than many other reflex sights, which might be a concern if weight is a primary factor for you. It also has a steeper learning curve than simpler sights – you’ll need to spend some time getting familiar with all its features to really take advantage of them.
Battery life is another consideration. While the RAD system helps, all those high-tech features do drain the battery faster than a simple red dot. You’re looking at about 3,000 hours of use on a single charge, which is still pretty good, but not quite up to the multi-year battery life of some other options.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Meprolight Foresight is an exciting glimpse into the future of reflex sights. If you’re a tech enthusiast who loves having the latest and greatest gear, this might be the sight for you.
Holosun 507K X2
For those looking for a compact option for their carry pistol, the Holosun 507K X2 is hard to beat. I recently added one of these to my EDC setup, and it’s been a game-changer. The small size doesn’t interfere with concealment, but it makes a world of difference when it comes to accuracy.
The 507K X2 features Holosun’s multi-reticle system, allowing you to switch between a 2 MOA dot, a 32 MOA circle, or both combined. This versatility is great – use the dot for precision shots at the range, and the circle for faster target acquisition in high-stress situations.
One of the standout features of the 507K X2 is its battery life. Despite its compact size, it boasts an impressive 50,000-hour battery life. That’s over 5 years of continuous use! And with the solar failsafe feature, you can extend that even further in well-lit conditions.
The side-loading battery is another nice touch. It means you can change the battery without removing the sight from your pistol, which helps maintain your zero.
Durability is always a concern with pistol-mounted optics, but the 507K X2 is built to last. It’s made from 7075 aluminum and is rated to withstand impacts up to 60 Gs. It’s also IPX8 waterproof, meaning it can handle being submerged in water up to 1 meter deep.
One potential downside of the 507K X2 is its size – while perfect for compact and subcompact pistols, it might look a bit small on full-size handguns. However, if you’re looking for a reliable, feature-packed sight for your carry gun, the 507K X2 is an excellent choice.
Trijicon SRO (Specialized Reflex Optic)
The Trijicon SRO is a sight that’s been gaining a lot of popularity, especially among competitive shooters. It’s designed as a larger, more open version of the famous RMR, offering a wider field of view that many shooters find advantageous.
The standout feature of the SRO is its large, circular lens. This design allows for incredibly fast target acquisition and makes it easier to track your dot during rapid fire or when transitioning between targets. I’ve used this sight in a few local pistol competitions, and the difference in speed compared to smaller window sights is noticeable.
The SRO is available with either a 1 MOA, 2.5 MOA, or 5 MOA dot. Personally, I prefer the 2.5 MOA as a good all-around option, but the 1 MOA can be great for precision work, while the 5 MOA excels in speed-focused scenarios.
Like other Trijicon products, the SRO is built to last. It’s waterproof to 10 feet and can handle the recoil from even the most powerful handguns. The battery life is also impressive, with up to 3 years of use on a mid-range brightness setting.
One potential drawback of the SRO is that its larger window makes it a bit more susceptible to damage than the smaller, more protected RMR. However, Trijicon offers an optional protective shroud for those concerned about this.
Overall, the Trijicon SRO is an excellent choice for those who prioritize a wide field of view and rapid target acquisition, especially on handguns or as an offset sight on rifles.
Aimpoint ACRO P-2
The Aimpoint ACRO (Advanced Compact Reflex Optic) P-2 is a fully enclosed pistol red dot that’s been making waves in the industry. It’s the successor to the original ACRO P-1, with significant improvements in battery life and overall performance.
What sets the ACRO P-2 apart is its fully enclosed design. Unlike many pistol red dots that have an open emitter, the ACRO’s emitter is protected within the housing. This makes it much more resistant to debris, water, and other environmental factors that could obstruct an open emitter.
The ACRO P-2 features a 3.5 MOA dot, which I find to be a good compromise between precision and speed for a pistol optic. It has 10 daylight settings and 4 night vision compatible settings, giving you plenty of options to dial in the perfect brightness.
One of the most significant improvements in the P-2 over its predecessor is the battery life. The P-2 can run for up to 5 years continuously on a mid-range setting. This addresses one of the main criticisms of the original ACRO and puts it on par with some of the best in the industry.
The ACRO P-2 is also incredibly durable. It’s submersible to 35 meters and can withstand extreme temperatures and heavy recoil. I’ve seen demo videos of this thing being dragged behind a car and still functioning perfectly – talk about tough!
The main drawback of the ACRO P-2 is its size. While not huge, it’s a bit larger than some other pistol red dots, which might be a consideration for concealed carry. However, if you’re looking for a bombproof pistol optic that you can rely on in any condition, the ACRO P-2 is hard to beat.
Vortex Razor Red Dot
Vortex has been making waves in the optics world with their combination of quality and affordability, and the Razor Red Dot is no exception. This sight is a bit larger than some others on this list, but it offers a super-clear sight picture and robust construction.
The Razor Red Dot features a 3 MOA dot, which I find to be a versatile size for both quick acquisition and precision aiming. The glass on this sight is exceptionally clear, with a wide field of view that makes it easy to maintain situational awareness.
One of the things I really appreciate about the Razor is its brightness settings. It has 9 daylight settings and 2 night-vision compatible settings, allowing you to dial in the perfect brightness for any lighting condition. The controls are intuitive and easy to use, even with gloves on.
Battery life is solid, with up to 150 hours on the highest setting and significantly longer on lower settings. The sight uses a common CR2032 battery, which is easy to find and replace.
Durability is a strong point for the Razor. It’s made from aircraft-grade aluminum and is both waterproof and shockproof. I’ve put this sight through its paces on a few hunting trips, and it’s held up admirably to the bumps and scrapes that come with trudging through the woods.
One potential downside of the Razor is its size and weight. While not excessive, it’s a bit larger than some other options, which might be a consideration depending on your setup.
Overall, the Vortex Razor Red Dot offers excellent performance at a competitive price point. It’s a great choice for those who want a high-quality sight without breaking the bank.
Sig Sauer Romeo8T
The Sig Sauer Romeo8T is a robust, feature-packed reflex sight that’s designed for serious use. It’s a bit larger than some other options on this list, but it packs in a lot of functionality.
One of the standout features of the Romeo8T is its reticle options. It offers four different reticle patterns that you can switch between: a 2 MOA dot, a 2 MOA dot with holdover points, a circle-dot combo, and a circle-dot with holdovers. This versatility allows you to choose the best reticle for your specific shooting scenario.
The Romeo8T is built like a tank. It’s made from aircraft-grade aluminum and is waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof. It can handle submersion up to 20 meters and operate in temperatures from -40°F to 160°F. In other words, it’s ready for whatever conditions you might encounter.
Battery life is impressive, with up to 100,000 hours of use on lower settings. The sight uses common AA batteries, which is a plus in my book – they’re easy to find and carry spares.
One unique feature of the Romeo8T is its MOTAC (Motion Activated Illumination) system. This turns the sight on when it detects motion and off when it’s stationary, helping to extend battery life even further.
The main drawback of the Romeo8T is its size and weight. It’s one of the larger and heavier options on this list, which might be a consideration depending on your setup and preferences.
Overall, the Sig Sauer Romeo8T is a feature-rich, ultra-durable sight that’s well-suited for serious users who need maximum versatility and reliability.
Primary Arms SLx MD-25 ACSS
Last but certainly not least, we have the Primary Arms SLx MD-25 ACSS. This sight offers something a bit different from the others on our list, thanks to its unique ACSS (Advanced Combined Sighting System) reticle.
The ACSS reticle is more complex than a simple dot, incorporating features for range estimation, bullet drop compensation, and moving target leads. It might seem overwhelming at first, but once you get used to it, it’s an incredibly versatile system that can enhance your shooting capabilities.
The MD-25 has a 25mm objective lens, which provides a nice, wide field of view. The sight is built from 6061 aluminum and is both waterproof and shockproof. It’s not the most compact option out there, but it’s still reasonably sized for most applications.
Battery life is solid, with up to 50,000 hours of use on medium settings. The sight uses a common CR2032 battery, which is easy to find and replace.
One of the things I really appreciate about the MD-25 is its price point. Primary Arms has managed to pack a lot of features and quality into a very affordable package.
The main potential drawback of the MD-25 ACSS is its learning curve. The ACSS reticle takes some getting used to, and it might be overkill for those who just want a simple red dot. However, for those willing to put in the time to learn the system, it can be an incredibly powerful tool.
Wrapping Up
Phew! That’s a lot of sights to take in, isn’t it? But here’s the thing – the best reflex sight for you is going to depend on your specific needs. Are you hunting? Competing? Carrying for self-defense? Each scenario might call for a different solution.
When choosing a reflex sight, consider factors like:
- Dot size: Smaller dots (1-2 MOA) are better for precision, while larger dots (4+ MOA) are faster for close-quarters use.
- Battery life: If you’re using it for home defense or carry, long battery life is crucial.
- Durability: Consider the conditions you’ll be using it in. Some sights are more rugged than others.
- Size and weight: Especially important for carry guns or lightweight builds.
- Reticle options: Some sights offer multiple reticle choices, which can be useful for different applications.
- Night vision compatibility: If you use night vision devices, make sure your sight is compatible.
- Price: While you generally get what you pay for with optics, there are good options at various price points.
My advice? If you can, try before you buy. Many ranges offer rental options, or you might have a buddy who’ll let you take their sight for a spin. There’s no substitute for hands-on experience.
Remember, a reflex sight is a tool, and like any tool, it takes practice to master. But once you do, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without one. Trust me, the first time you nail a moving target with ease, you’ll be hooked.
So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start exploring the world of reflex sights. Your accuracy (and your hunting buddies) will thank you. And hey, if you have any questions or want to share your own experiences, drop a comment below. I’m always eager to hear from fellow enthusiasts!
Until next time, keep your sights aligned and your powder dry. Happy hunting!