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  • Post category:AR-15 / Sights
  • Post last modified:April 16, 2023
  • Post published:May 6, 2022

Whether you’re a first-time AR owner or simply looking to upgrade your optic, a red dot sight is a great accessory to consider. Red dots allow you to quickly and easily acquire your target, and they’re perfect for both home defense and competitive shooting. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the best red dots for ARs on the market today. We’ll also provide tips on how to choose the right red dot for your needs. So if you’re interested in learning more about red dots, keep reading!

Best Red Dots For AR

Best Red Dots For AR Reviews

#1 Burris AR-1X CQB Prism Red Dot Sight

Burris AR-1X CQB Prism Red Dot Sight

Specification

Magnification: 1 x
Brightness Settings: 5
Field of View, Linear: 75 ft at 100 yds
Battery Life: 5000 hours
Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
Fogproof: Yes

The Burris AR-1X CQB Prism Red Dot Sight allows you to keep accurate with both eyes open, thanks to its Ballistic CQ 1X Reticle. This Rifle Sight from Burris is made with a black reticle that is etched into the prism, making it usable even when it is out of battery power. The easy-to-see reticle hash marks on the sight offer trajectory compensation out to 600 yards.

Pros:
  • Durable aluminum housing.
  • Waterproof and fog-proof.
  • 1x magnification.
  • Red dot sight with 3 MOA dot.
  • Clear, crisp image quality.
  • Adjustable windage and elevation.
Cons:
  • The lens caps are a bit difficult to remove and replace.
  • The small viewing window.

 

#2 Burris FastFire RD Red Dot Sight

Burris FastFire RD Red Dot Sight

Specification

Magnification: 1 x
Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
Shockproof: Yes
Fogproof: Yes
Gun Make: AR Platform
Gun Type: Rifle

The Burris FastFire RD Red Dot Sight is perfect for anyone looking for a durable and high-quality sight. With its magnification of 1x, object objective of 22, the field of view, and reticle dot, this sight is perfect for any shooter. It’s also nitrogen-filled and waterproof, making it ideal for any environment. Plus, it only weighs 6.4 oz., so it’s perfect for on-the-go shooters.

Video review

Pros:
  • It is incredibly lightweight and compact, making it perfect for pistols and other firearms.
  • It has a 3 MOA red dot reticle that makes it easy to acquire your target quickly and easily.
  • The sight is made from high-quality materials that are durable and long-lasting.
  • It features automatic brightness adjustment, ensuring that you always have the perfect sight picture regardless of the lighting conditions.
Cons:
  • The sight is not adjustable for windage and elevation.
  • Limited eye relief.

 

#3 Bushnell AR Optics TRS-25 HiRise Red Dot Sight

Bushnell AR Optics TRS-25 HiRise Red Dot Sight

Specification

11 brightness settings
3 MOA red dot
Amber-Bright lens coating
Waterproof/fog-proof/shockproof

Looking for an affordable and reliable red dot sight for your AR-type rifle or carbine? Check out the Bushnell AR Optics TRS-25 HiRise Red Dot Sight. With unlimited eye relief and field of view, this sight is perfect for fast target acquisition. 11 brightness settings and a 3 MOA red dot make it easy to place shots in any light condition, while the Amber-Bright lens coating provides clear views and positive target identification. The included riser block positions the sight at optimum height on flat top ARs. So don’t miss your chance to pick up a Bushnell AR Optics TRS-25 HiRise Red Dot Sight today!

Video review

Pros:
  • It is a budget-friendly option.
  • It is very easy to use.
  • It has 3 brightness settings.
Cons:
  • It is not waterproof.
  • It is not made for use in low light conditions.
  • It has a limited field of view.

 

#4 Bushnell AR Optics TRS-26 Red Dot Sight

Bushnell AR Optics TRS-26 Red Dot Sight

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Specification

12 brightness settings
3 MOA red dot
Amber-Bright lens coating
Waterproof/fog proof/shockproof
T1 compatible high rise mount

Bushnell AR Optics TRS-26 Red Dot Sight. With unlimited eye relief and a wide field of view, the Bushnell AR Optics TRS-26 Red Dot Sight delivers fast target acquisition with AR-type rifles and carbines, as well as home defense, hunting, and tactical shotguns. 12 brightness settings and a 3 MOA red dot enable you to place shots in any light condition. Multi-coated optics, with an Amber-Bright high contrast lens coating, provides a clear view for positive target identification and lasting durability.

Video review

Pros:
  • It is incredibly durable, thanks to its hard-anodized aluminum housing.
  • It is fog proof and waterproof, making it a great choice for any weather condition.
  • It has adjustable windage and elevation, allowing you to customize your shooting experience.
  • Its 26mm objective lens provides a wide field of view.
Cons:
  • The knob that adjusts the brightness is stiff and hard to turn.
  • The battery life is short.

 

#5 Bushnell AR Optics Engulf Micro Reflex Red Dot Sight

Bushnell AR Optics Engulf Micro Reflex Red Dot Sight

Specification

Magnification: 1 x
Reticle: 5 MOA
Brightness Settings: 12
Battery Life: 50,000 hours
Weather Resistance: Fog Resistant
Water Resistance Level: IPX-7

The Bushnell AR Optics Engulf Micro Reflex Red Dot Sight is the smallest, lightest red dot sight in the AR Optics family. It’s perfect for close-quarter scenarios, and compatible with a large selection of semiautomatic pistols. The Advance projects a 5-MOA dot through waterproof fog proof and shockproof optics.

Video review

Pros:
  • It is a great product for anyone looking for an affordable and durable red dot sight.
  • This sight is easy to use and can be mounted on a variety of firearms.
  • It is perfect for close-range shooting.
Cons:
  • Limited field of view.
  • Parallax can cause errors at close ranges.

 

#6 Vortex SPARC AR II Red Dot Sight

Vortex SPARC AR II Red Dot Sight

Specification

Magnification: 1 x
Reticle: 2 MOA Dot
Weather Resistance: Shock Resistant
Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
Gun Make: AR Platform

If you’re looking for the latest and greatest in firearms technology, you need to check out the new and improved Vortex Sparc II AR Red Dot Sight. These red dot sights from Vortex feature fully multi-coated optics that provide the perfect shot every time by optimizing light transmission and preventing glare and reflection. With unlimited eye relief, the Vortex Sparc II AR Red Dot Sight allows for faster target acquisition without sacrificing your vision. So if you’re looking to shoot longer, further, and faster, upgrade to the Vortex Sparc AR II Crossfire Red Dot sight today!

Video review

Pros:
  • It is parallax free and has unlimited eye relief.
  • It offers 10 brightness levels with manual and automatic adjustment.
  • The unit has a rugged design and is waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof.
  • It also has an auto shut-off feature to conserve battery life.
Cons:
  • Battery life is short.
  • Cannot be used with a magnifier.

 

#7 Vortex OPMOD StrikeFire II Red Dot Sight

Vortex OPMOD StrikeFire II Red Dot Sight

Specification

Magnification: 1 x
Battery Life: 80,000 hours
Operating Temperature: -22 – 140 Fahrenheit
Weather Resistance: Yes
Shockproof: Yes
Fogproof: Yes
Gun Model: AR-15
Brightness Index: 10

Looking for a reliable and affordable red dot sight? Look no further than the Vortex OPMOD StrikeFire II Red Dot Sight! Featuring fully multi-coated lenses, this sight is perfect for close-range targets. It is also waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof for the best performance in all conditions. Our own testing with the StrikeFire II has shown that this red dot excels with an AR-15 platform, but it can also withstand the heavy hitting of a shotgun or rifle. So don’t miss your chance to own this amazing red dot sight today!

Video review

Pros:
  • The StrikeFire II is a very lightweight sight.
  • It has a red or green dot sight.
  • The battery life is long.
  • The adjustment knobs are easy to use.
Cons:
  • The sight adjustment screws tend to come loose and need to be constantly re-tightened.
  • It can be difficult to get a clear sight picture in low light conditions.

 

#8 Vortex Viper Red Dot Sight

Vortex Viper Red Dot Sight

Specification

Magnification: 1 x
Battery Life: 150 – 30000 hours
Operating Temperature: 22 – 122 Fahrenheit
Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
Gun Make: AR Platform
Gun Type: Rifle, Pistol, Shotgun

This Vortex Viper Red Dot Sight is the perfect choice for handguns with cutout slides. Its bright red 6 MOA reticle provides clear targeting in any light levels or background colors. The easy-to-use power and illumination controls on the left side make adjustments without changing your sighting position.

Video review

Pros:
  • It is incredibly durable and can take a beating.
  • It is fog proof and waterproof, so you can use it in any weather conditions.
  • It is very easy to use, even for beginners.
  • It has a long battery life, so you can use it for extended periods of time.
  • It is very accurate and provides great clarity.
Cons:
  • The lens caps are difficult to remove and replace.
  • The adjustment screws can be a little finicky.

 

#9 Vortex OPMOD Viper Red Dot Sight

Vortex OPMOD Viper Red Dot Sight

Specification

Magnification: 1 x
Battery Life: 150 – 30000 hours
Operating Temperature: 22 – 122 Fahrenheit
Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
Shockproof: Yes
Gun Make: AR Platform
Gun Type: Pistol, Rifle, Shotgun

The Vortex OPMOD Viper Red Dot Sight in Flat Dark Earth, available exclusively from OpticsPlanet, is designed for handguns with cutout slides. This sight has a bright red 6 MOA reticle that can be seen clearly in any light levels or background colors. The easy-to-use power and illumination controls on the left side make adjustments without changing your sighting position. The sight mounts exceptionally low, making it a great choice for those who want the benefits of a red dot sight with minimal added bulk.

Pros:
  • It is a high-quality product that is durable and easy to use.
  • It is designed with an 11-position brightness adjustment system to ensure that you can customize the reticle to your preferences.
  • The sight has unlimited eye relief, meaning that you can mount it in any position without losing clarity or accuracy.
  • The included lens caps protect the glass from scratches and damage, making it a good option for people who are hard on their equipment.
Cons:
  • It can be tough to adjust the brightness levels.
  • The lens caps are easy to lose.

 

#10 Vortex Strikefire II Red Dot Sight

Vortex Strikefire II Red Dot Sight

Specification

Magnification: 1 x
Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
Shockproof: Yes
Gun Model: AR-15
Gun Type: Rifle

If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line red dot sight, look no further than the Vortex Strikefire II. This high-performance sight is perfect for split-second target acquisition and maximum field of view while shooting with both eyes open. With sleek rear-facing controls for power on/off and easy adjustment of ten dot intensity levels, it’s easy to shoot in any lighting condition. The lowest two settings are even ideal for night vision, so you can take your game to the next level no matter what time of day it is. Trust us, the Vortex Strikefire II is the only red dot sight you’ll ever need.

Video review

Pros:
  • It is a versatile optic that can be used in a variety of scenarios.
  • It is incredibly easy to use, making it perfect for novice shooters.
  • It’s also very affordable, making it a great option for those on a budget.
Cons:
  • It doesn’t have a magnifier.
  • It is not night vision compatible.

 

#11 Vortex Optics Sparc AR Red Dot Sight

Vortex Optics Sparc AR Red Dot Sight

Specification

Battery Life: 50000 hours
Brightness Settings: 11 settings
Night Vision Compatible: Yes
Reticle: 2 MOA red dot
Sight Type: Red Dot

The Vortex Optics SPARC AR Red Dot Sight is perfect for any environment. It features bomb-proof-like construction with a compact and lightweight form factor. The 2 MOA dot is easy to acquire, making it quick to shoot in close-quarters scenarios, and the integrated base is hassle-free for any AR or similar platform. For excellent, reliable performance and loads of user-friendly features, look no further than the SPARC AR.

Video review

Pros:
  • It is a very affordable sight that still offers great features.
  • It has a long battery life and comes with a 10-year warranty.
  • The optics are clear and the dot is easy to see, even in bright light.
Cons:
  • The optic is not parallax free.
  • Limited eye relief can cause problems for those who wear glasses.

 

#12 OpticsPlanet Exclusive Sightmark Wolverine Red Dot

OpticsPlanet Exclusive Sightmark Wolverine Red Dot

Specification

Magnification: 1 x
Battery Life: 6 hours
Water Resistance Level: IP67
Shockproof: Yes
Fogproof: Yes
Gun Model: Universal

The OpticsPlanet Exclusive Sightmark Wolverine Red Dot was designed for shotguns and short-barreled rifles. These red dot sights from Sightmark are built with 6061-T6 aluminum and rubber armored so they are durable enough for a lifetime of use. The matte finish on these Sightmark Wolverine CSR Reflex Sights gives them a tactical look and reduces reflections for more stealth. Take aim in all kinds of weather, temperatures, and terrain with the dustproof, waterproof, fog-proof, nitrogen purged, shockproof, and affordable Sightmark Wolverine CSR 4MOA Rugged Red Dot.

Video review

Pros:
  • It is a very affordable sight that performs well.
  • It has a wide field of view and clear optics.
  • The illuminated reticle is adjustable, so you can customize it to your needs.
  • This sight is durable and weatherproof, making it a good choice for hunting or shooting in any condition.
Cons:
  • The reticle can be difficult to see in certain lighting conditions.
  • The lens caps are prone to falling off.

 

#13 Meprolight MEPRO RDS PRO Red-Dot Sight

Meprolight MEPRO RDS PRO Red-Dot Sight

Specification

Magnification: 1 x
Water Resistance Level: IP67
Gun Make: Universal
Brightness Index: 16mm
Switch Type: Dial

Introducing the Mepro RDS Pro Red-Dot Sight, a rugged and energy-efficient sight that provides thousands of hours of operation while utilizing a single “AA” commercial battery. Featuring LED technology and MIL-SPEC design, this sight is reliable under the harshest environmental conditions. With its large display window and clearly-defined Red-dot, the Mepro RDS Pro ensures rapid target acquisition with both eyes open. Offering four easily switchable reticle brightness intensities, the Mepro RDS Pro fits every scenario. Don’t miss out on this essential optic – pick up a Mepro RDS Pro today!

Video review

Pros:
  • It is a high-quality, accurate sight designed for firearms.
  • This sight is parallax-free with unlimited eye relief and features a wide field of view.
  • The illuminated red dot allows for quick target acquisition in all lighting conditions.
  • The sight has an automatic on/off system that conserves battery power.
Cons:
  • The battery life is reportedly short, especially when the sight is used in cold weather.
  • The reticle may be too small for some shooters.

 

#14 Riton Optics X1 Tactix ARD Red Dot Sight

Riton Optics X1 Tactix ARD Red Dot Sight

Specification

Magnification: 1 x
Brightness Settings: 6
Light Transmission: 99.5 %
Battery Life: 40000 hours
Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
Shockproof: Yes

The Riton Optics X1 Tactix ARD Red Dot Sight is one of the most versatile, accurate, and affordable red dot sights on the market. Featuring a 2 MOA ultra-precise red dot, it comes with a lower 1/3 co-witness QD mount and a flush mount for the perfect mounting height no matter the platform. Whether you’re looking to equip your AR-15, AK-47, shotgun, or pistol with a red dot sight, the X1 Tactix is an excellent choice.

Video review

Pros:
  • It is a very affordable sight that still offers great features.
  • It is easy to use and can be mounted on a number of different firearms.
  • The sight is made from high-quality materials and is durable.
Cons:
  • The battery life could be better.
  • It can be challenging to adjust the brightness levels.

 

#15 Riton Optics X3 Tactix ARD Red Dot Sight

Riton Optics X3 Tactix ARD Red Dot Sight

Specification

Magnification: 1 x
Brightness Settings: 6
Light Transmission: 99.5 %
Battery Life: 40000 hours
Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
Shockproof: Yes

The Riton Optics X3 Tactix ARD Red Dot Sight is specifically designed for the AR platform. The lightweight red dot comes with a skeletonized, lower 1/3 co-witness Quick Disconnect (QD) mount and a 25mm objective for quick target acquisition. The 2 MOA illuminated, red dot allows for precision in the field or at the range.

Video review

Pros:
  • It is a high-quality sight that is perfect for any shooter.
  • This sight is very easy to use and can be mounted on any weapon.
  • It is incredibly durable and can withstand even the harshest environments.
Cons:
  • The weight of the sight is a bit heavy for some people.
  • Limited field of view.
  • It does not have an auto-off feature.

 

FAQ

Where should your red dot be on your AR?

The best red dot placement on an AR is somewhere in the middle of the rifle. This will ensure that you have a clear view of the red dot no matter what your shooting position is.

Should I put a red dot on my AR-15?

The answer to this question really depends on what you’re using your AR 15 for. If you’re using it for hunting or long-range shooting, a red dot may not be necessary. However, if you’re using your AR for tactical purposes or home defense, a red dot can be a great addition to help you aim more accurately.

Can red dots be used at night?

Yes, red dots can be used at night as long as they have a night vision mode. Some red dots also come with built-in infrared lasers that allow you to see targets in the dark.

Do you need a front sight with a red dot?

Many people find that they don’t need a front sight with a red dot. This is because the red dot sits on top of the target, and the front sight is not necessary for aiming. However, if you are having trouble with accuracy, you may want to try using a front sight with your red dot.

Can you zero a red dot without shooting?

Yes, you can zero a red dot without shooting by adjusting the windage and elevation screws on the side of the sight. Turning these screws will change the point of impact on the target, allowing you to zero the sight in.

How does a red dot work?

Red Dot Sight is a type of Optical gun sight that allows the shooter to see a red dot on the target and automatically aligns the firearm’s point of aim with the target. Red Dot Sights are classified as Reflex Sights.

Do red dots magnify?

Yes, red dots magnify. However, the magnification power of a red dot sight will depend on the specific model that you choose. Some models offer a fixed magnification, while others have adjustable magnification.

How accurate are red dot sights?

Red dot sights are very accurate and can be used for both short and long-range shooting. Typically, red dot sights are more accurate than iron sights because the shooter does not have to align the rear sight, front sight, and target. Red dot sights provide an aiming point in the form of a red dot that is superimposed on the target, allowing shooters to place shots with great accuracy.

Which is better red dot or laser?

The answer to this question really depends on the user’s needs and preferences. Lasers can be more precise than red dots, but they can also be more difficult to see in certain lighting conditions. Red dots are generally brighter and easier to see, making them a better choice for most shooters. However, it is ultimately up to the individual shooter to decide which option is best for them.

Do red dot sights need batteries?

Red dot sights do not necessarily need batteries to function; however, some models may require them in order to operate properly. It is important to check the specifications of the sight you are considering purchasing to ensure that it will work without batteries. If it does require batteries, most sights use either a common CR2032 or AA battery.

Conclusion

Red dot sights are a popular type of optic for firearms, and there is a wide variety of models to choose from. In this article, we’ve looked at some of the best red dots for ARs on the market. We’ve considered factors such as price, features, and durability to help you make an informed decision about which sight is right for your needs. So, what’s the best red dot sight for AR? It depends on your budget and preferences, but any of the options on our list would be a good choice. Thanks for reading!

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