Red Dot Sight or Rifle Scope for Hunting – Which One Is Better?
When it comes to hunting optics, both red dot sights and rifle scopes have their advantages, but the best choice depends on your hunting style and priorities.
Red dot sights are designed for speed. Their simple reticle and wide field of view (FOV) allow for quick target acquisition, making them ideal for fast-moving game and close-to-medium-range shots. They are just perfect for driven hunts.
On top of that, they’re also more lightweight and compact than rifle scopes and offer unlimited eye relief, meaning you can aim comfortably in all scenarios without adjusting your head position.
They do, however, lack magnification, limiting their effectiveness for long-range precision shooting, where rifle scopes undoubtedly take the cake.
It’s rifle scopes’ biggest selling point, actually. They excel at long-range accuracy, and together with higher magnification and more advanced reticle designs, they offer superior clarity and precision for long shots.
The trade-off? They (rifle scopes) are bulkier and heavier and can slow you down when aiming at moving targets. Acquiring a target with a scope takes more time, which can be a disadvantage in fast-paced hunting scenarios.
So, which is better?
Well, if your hunts involve fast action and shorter distances, a red dot sight is likely the best fit. If you prioritize precision at long range, a rifle scope is the way to go.
Ultimately, the right optic depends on your hunting environment and the type of game you’re after.
How to Choose the Right Red Dot Sight?
With so many red dot sights available on the market, picking the right one for hunting can, at times, feel overwhelming. The ideal choice depends on several factors, including the type of game you hunt, the terrain, and the weather conditions.
It’s also important to remember that not all red dots are built the same. Some prioritize a wide FOV for fast-moving targets, while others focus on durability and reliability in harsh environments.
Before diving into specific models, it’s important to understand the key differences between the types of red dot sights.
We already wrote about Reflex vs. Tube vs. Holographic Red Dot Sight, but let’s now discuss the difference between tube, reflex, and hybrid red dot sights.
Tube Red Dot Sights
First, we have tube-style red dots. They resemble small rifle scopes and are known for their rugged construction and ease of use. They usually only have 1x magnification and a simple red (or often green) illuminated dot in the middle. (Though some of them offer multiple reticle options, adjustable brightness settings, etc.)
These sights offer reliable protection against the environment and are often a preferred choice by hunters who track animals through dense vegetation or face unpredictable weather. While slightly bulkier than other options, tube-style red dots excel in driven hunts and situations where you need a balance of durability and quick aiming.
Reflex Red Dot Sights
Reflex-style (or open) red dot sights, on the other hand, feature an exposed lens that provides a wider FOV. They usually allow better and faster target acquisition than tube sights and are especially useful when hunting fast-moving game, where every second counts.
Their downside is that because of their open design, they are more vulnerable to dirt, snow, or rain obstructing the lens, which can be a drawback in harsher conditions. On driven hunts, this type of red dot sight is usually used by hunters who are stationary and not in the drive.
Hybrid Red Dot Sights
Hybrid sights offer a middle ground between the first two. They combine the clarity and durability of a tube-style sight with the wide FOV of a reflex sight.
They are the preferred choice of those hunters who like to remain flexible on the field. In essence, we could describe them as reflex red dot sights that have an enclosed housing. Quite often, they feature rectangular housing and are clearly distinguishable from tubular red dot sights.
The List of Top 5 Red Dot Sights for Hunting
At Optics Trade, we get questions about red dot sights practically daily. Two of the most common ones we hear are: “Which is the cheapest red dot you have?” and “Which is the best one?”
The first question is easy to answer. The second? Not so much.
As we’ve already discussed, the “best” red dot sight depends on the hunter, the environment, and personal preferences. What works perfectly for one person might not be ideal for another. On top of that, budget is a factor for most customers, making the decision even more complicated.
To make things easier, we’ve put together a list of the top five red dot sights for hunters.
We based this list on the collective experience of our team, which includes both hunters and sport optics experts. While we wrote it with the average European hunter in mind, these recommendations will be useful for hunters worldwide.
Here are our top picks:
1) Aimpoint H34
The first one on the list is the Aimpoint H34, and in our opinion, it is THE choice for those who prioritize ruggedness and long-lasting performance when it comes to red dot sights. It excels in harsh environments, making it the go-to option for hunters who face tough weather conditions. Its legendary reliability and extended battery life make it ideal for long hunting trips, but the cost may be a downside for more budget-conscious hunters.
PROS:
- Legendary Reliability: Built to withstand harsh conditions, this is one of the most rugged red dots available.
- High-Quality Optics: A bright, crisp, and clear red dot for precise aiming.
- Exceptional Battery Life: Up to 50,000 hours on low settings. It’s calming to know you won’t have to worry about battery changes during long hunts.
- Versatile Mounting: Compatible with various mounting systems, offering flexibility across different firearms.
CONS:
- Heavier Build: Bulkier than some other red dots, which may be a drawback for hunters looking to keep their setup lightweight.
- Premium Price: Among the more expensive options, it is less budget-friendly.
2) Aimpoint Micro H-2
If you’re looking for a lightweight, compact sight, the Aimpoint Micro H-2 offers exceptional reliability and battery life in a small package. The only real downside could be the price. It’s a bit on the pricier side.
PROS:
- Compact Size: Extremely lightweight and small, making it perfect for hunters who prefer a minimalistic setup with reduced bulk.
- Durable and Weatherproof: Built to endure challenging weather, from rain to snow and extreme temperatures.
- Impressive Battery Life: Can run up to 50,000 hours on a single battery, offering excellent longevity for those long hunting trips.
- Quick Target Acquisition: The small dot design enables fast target acquisition, making it ideal for dynamic hunting situations.
CONS:
- No Magnification: As is typical with red dots, it lacks magnification, limiting its effectiveness for long-distance shots.
- Pricey: The premium cost might turn some hunters away.
3) Blaser RD20
Third on our list of top 5 red dot sights for hunting is the Blaser RD20. It impresses with its build quality and user-friendly design, though its higher price tag may be a consideration for those on a budget. It’s an excellent choice for hunters who value durability and ease of use.
PROS:
- Versatile Design: Compact and lightweight, making it easy to mount on various rifles.
- Durability: Built with high-quality materials to withstand harsh weather conditions.
- User-Friendly Adjustments: Windage and elevation can be fine-tuned with ease.
- Battery Life: Long-lasting, often running for thousands of hours on a single battery.
CONS:
- No Magnification: Not ideal for longer-range shots.
- High Price: A premium option that may not suit budget-conscious hunters.
4) Holosun 403B
The Holosun 403B strikes a balance between affordability and functionality, with great battery life and a solar panel feature. While it may not boast the same rugged build as the Aimpoint models, it provides excellent value for those on a tighter budget.
PROS:
- Affordable: A great option for hunters who want reliable performance without breaking the bank.
- Long Battery Life: The battery can last up to 50,000 hours on its lowest setting, offering extended reliability for long hunts.
- Solar Panel Feature: Equipped with a solar panel to boost power efficiency, especially in bright conditions.
- Multiple Reticle Options: Provides different reticle configurations (like a 2 MOA dot or a combination of dot and circle) for versatile aiming.
CONS:
- Build Quality: While solid, it doesn’t quite match the ruggedness of higher-end models like Aimpoint, which could be a downside in extreme conditions.
- Lens Clarity: Some users report that the lens clarity may not be as sharp compared to premium models.
5) Delta Optical Multidot HD36
Last but definitely not least on our list of top 5 red dots for hunters is the Delta Optical Multidot HD36. While it may lack some bells and whistles of some of the other options on this list, it has everything that a good hunting red dot actually needs, and it doesn’t overwhelm you with any unnecessary features. It is possibly the best deal you can get if you look at the price/performance ratio.
PROS:
- Multiple Reticle Options: Delta Optical Multidot HD36 stays true to its name. It offers multiple reticle styles (dot, circle, or a combination) suitable for different hunting and shooting scenarios.
- Affordable: Delivers solid performance at a lower price point. It’s probably the best choice for those who are looking to get the best bang for their buck.
- Compact and Lightweight: Its small design makes it easy to mount without adding unnecessary weight to your rifle.
- Clear Optics: Provides good clarity and brightness. Target acquisition is a breeze with this red dot.
CONS:
- Durability: Not as rugged as higher-end options like Aimpoint, which might be a concern in extremely tough conditions.
- Battery Life: While decent, its battery life is shorter than that of some premium models, which may require more frequent battery replacements.
Conclusion
So, there you have it. This was our list of the top 5 red dot sights for hunting.
In conclusion, choosing the right red dot sight for hunting ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. Factors such as weight, durability, battery life, and ease of use all play a crucial role in making the right decision.
We always try to look at things objectively and make sure we take all the hunters’ needs into consideration when we make these kinds of lists, but there’s always a chance we missed something.
If there’s something you’d like to add or if you think we made a mistake, please let us know in the comments! You can also contact us at [email protected] and let us know your thoughts.
Thank you for reading!
