When it comes to coyote hunting, having the right gear can make all the difference between a successful hunt and a missed opportunity.
Among the essential tools for this pursuit, a reliable red dot sight stands out as a game-changer. Red dot sights offer quick target acquisition and enhanced accuracy, crucial for tracking and taking down these elusive predators in various lighting conditions and terrains.
This guide delves into what makes a red dot sight ideal for coyote hunting, helping you understand the key features and benefits that will improve your hunting experience and success rate.
Top 4 Best Red Dot Sights for Coyote Hunting
Sig Sauer ROMEO5
I strapped a Burris Fastfire 4 red dot sight on my trusty .22LR a while back, and let me tell you, it's been a game changer for squirrel hunting – but with a bit of "but" thrown in.
The Good:
Speed & Acquisition: The biggest win? Blazing fast target acquisition. Forget fiddling with lining up iron sights in the heat of the moment. With the Fastfire 4, a bright red dot sits front and center, letting you lock onto squirrels quicker than they can say "acorn." This translates to more successful shots, especially on those jittery treetop targets.
Lightweight & Unobtrusive: This sight is a featherweight. It doesn't throw off the balance of my rifle like a bulky scope, making it perfect for stalking through the woods. Plus, its low profile keeps it out of the way when you're shoulder-mounting in a hurry.
Multiple Reticles: Here's where things get interesting. The Fastfire 4 offers a variety of reticle options, from a simple 3 MOA dot to a more complex horseshoe. I found the circle dot particularly useful for quick, close-range shots on squirrels.
The Not-So-Good:
Limited Magnification: Now for the "but." This red dot sight doesn't offer any magnification. While it's fantastic for close to mid-range squirrel hunting (think 30-50 yards), forget about taking down those distant bushy-tailed bandits. For those long-range shots, you'll still need a trusty scope.
Battery Dependence: Red dots rely on batteries, and that can be a concern. A dead battery in the field means a frustrating end to your hunt. I always carry a spare, but it's something to keep in mind.
Overall:
Despite the lack of magnification, the Burris Fastfire 4 has become my go-to sight for squirrel hunting. The speed and ease of target acquisition, coupled with its lightweight design, make it a perfect companion for those quick, action-packed hunts. Just remember, keep those shots within reasonable range, and pack a spare battery!
What Others Are Saying:
Browsing online forums, I see other hunters echoing my experience. Many praise the Fastfire 4's speed and clarity, particularly for handgun hunting. A few reviewers mentioned some difficulty with the brightness settings in low light, but overall, the sentiment is positive.
So, is the Burris Fastfire 4 the ultimate squirrel slayer sight? Not quite. But for close-range hunting where speed and ease of use are paramount, it's a fantastic option. Just factor in the lack of magnification and remember that spare battery!
As a squirrel hunter, I'm always on the lookout for gear that gives me an edge without breaking the bank. The Bushnell TRS-25 red dot sight definitely fits the bill. Here's my take on this popular red dot, after putting it through its paces in the squirrel woods:
The Good Stuff:
Fast target acquisition: The red dot makes lining up on squirrels a breeze, especially on those quick shots. No more fumbling with lining up iron sights in the heat of the moment.
Built tough: This little red dot can take a beating. Rain, shine, or the occasional bump on a tree branch, it's held up perfectly so far.
Adjustable brightness: Whether I'm hunting in the deep woods or on a bright, sunny day, I can find the perfect dot intensity for the conditions.
Affordable: Let's face it, squirrel hunting isn't about expensive gear. The TRS-25 is a great value for the price.
The Not-So-Good Stuff:
Big dot: The 3 MOA dot can obscure smaller targets at longer distances. While great for close-up squirrel action, it might not be ideal for all situations.
No frills: This is a basic red dot sight. Don't expect fancy reticles or magnification.
Mount situation: The TRS-25 doesn't come with a riser mount, which can be an issue on some rifles. I had to buy one separately to get a proper cheek weld.
In the Field:
Taking down squirrels with the TRS-25 has been a game-changer. Being able to acquire my target quickly and make precise shots has definitely upped my success rate. It's lightweight and doesn't add much bulk to my rifle, making it perfect for stalking through the woods.
What Others Are Saying:
Browsing online forums, I've seen other hunters praising the TRS-25 for its durability and affordability. Some folks recommend upgrading the dot to a smaller MOA for more precise long-range shooting. Overall, the reviews seem positive, with many hunters considering it a great budget red dot.
The Verdict:
The Bushnell TRS-25 isn't a top-of-the-line red dot, but for squirrel hunting, it's a fantastic option. It's easy to use, tough as nails, and won't break the bank. If you're looking for a red dot to up your squirrel game, the TRS-25 is definitely worth considering. Just keep in mind the 3 MOA dot size and the need for a separate riser mount depending on your rifle setup.
As a coyote hunter who relies on quick target acquisition in low-light situations, the Burris FastFire 4 red dot sight has become a game-changer for me. Here's my breakdown of its pros, cons, and what it's like to use in the field.
Best Features and Advantages:
Speed Demon: The large sight window and multiple reticle options (including a 3-MOA dot) make finding and putting the dot on coyotes a breeze, especially at close to medium range. Those crucial seconds I used to spend aligning iron sights are gone.
Built Like a Tank: This red dot is tough. It's taken bumps, bangs, and all kinds of weather without a hitch. Knowing my sight won't fail when that trophy coyote appears is a huge confidence booster.
Long Lasting Power: Burris boasts a ridiculous 26,000-hour battery life on medium brightness. I haven't had to change the battery yet, and frankly, I don't expect to for a long time.
Disadvantages and Considerations:
Price Point: The FastFire 4 isn't the cheapest red dot on the market. However, for the quality and features you get, I believe it's a worthwhile investment.
Magnification: Since it's a red dot, there's no magnification. For long-range shooting, you'll need a magnified optic. But for coyotes within typical hunting ranges, it's perfect.
Real-World Experience:
Out in the field, the FastFire 4 shines. Those pre-dawn hunts where visibility is limited are no longer a guessing game. The red dot is crisp and easy to see, allowing me to make precise shots and avoid wounding animals. Plus, the lightweight design keeps my rifle balanced and easy to maneuver.
What Others Are Saying:
Customer reviews online are overwhelmingly positive. Hunters praise the FastFire 4's durability, clarity, and ease of use. There are a few mentions of the higher price tag, but most feel it's justified by the performance. One reviewer even shared a story about taking down a coyote at dusk with a perfect shot thanks to the FastFire 4.
Overall, the Burris FastFire 4 has become an essential part of my coyote hunting arsenal. It's fast, reliable, and built to last. If you're looking for a red dot sight that can give you the edge in the field, I highly recommend it.
Let me preface this by saying I'm a traditionalist at heart. Iron sights and a trusty .22 rifle have always been my go-to for squirrel hunting. But lately, I've been getting curious about red dot sights. So, I took the plunge and picked up a Trijicon RMR Type 2. Here's what I found after spending some time in the field.
Features I Love:
Fast Target Acquisition: The red dot makes picking up squirrels in the brush a breeze. No more squinting through iron sights – just a quick point and shoot. This is especially helpful in those fast-moving situations.
Both Eyes Open: This is a game-changer. Keeping both eyes open gives you superior situational awareness, letting you spot movement you might miss with one eye closed.
Bombproof Durability: Trijicon boasts military-grade toughness, and so far, it feels like it could survive a fall from a tree stand.
Downsides to Consider:
Price: Let's be honest, the RMR Type 2 isn't cheap. It's a significant investment for a squirrel rifle.
Battery Dependence: Unlike iron sights, the red dot relies on a battery. A dead battery at the wrong moment can ruin your hunt.
Large for a Rimfire: The RMR Type 2 is built tough, but it also adds some bulk to your rifle. It might feel a bit cumbersome on a lightweight .22.
My Experience:
The red dot takes some getting used to. At first, I found myself chasing the dot instead of focusing on the target. But with practice, it became second nature. The fast target acquisition is undeniable, especially for those quick shots through branches. However, the battery dependence worries me. I've gotten in the habit of carrying a spare just in case.
Online reviews are mixed. Some hunters swear by red dots for small game, raving about the speed and accuracy boost. Others scoff at the price tag and complexity for a simple task like squirrel hunting.
The Trijicon RMR Type 2 is a fantastic red dot sight, but for squirrel hunting, it's a bit of a niche choice. If you're a serious small game hunter who wants the fastest target acquisition possible, it's worth considering. But if you're on a tight budget or value simplicity, iron sights might be the way to go. For me, the jury's still out. I'm enjoying the red dot's advantages, but the price and battery dependence give me pause.
In conclusion, selecting the best red dot for coyote hunting hinges on several critical factors including durability, reticle clarity, battery life, and ease of use.
A high-quality red dot sight enhances accuracy and speed, making it an invaluable tool for hunters targeting fast-moving and elusive coyotes.
Ensuring the sight can withstand various weather conditions and rough handling is crucial, as is the ability to maintain a clear, visible reticle in different lighting scenarios.
By focusing on these key aspects, hunters can significantly improve their chances of a successful hunt, making the right red dot sight an essential component of their hunting gear.