Lever action rifles offer a classic charm with modern-day functionality. To maximize their potential, a compatible red dot sight is a must. The best red dots for lever guns feature a forgiving eye box, hold zero under recoil, and offer clear visibility without obscuring the rifle's timeless appearance.
Top 5 Best Red Dot Sight For Lever Action Rifles
Trijicon RMR Type 2
I'll admit, I was a bit hesitant to put a red dot sight on my trusty lever action rifle. It felt like messing with tradition. But let me tell you, the Trijicon RMR Type 2 has been a game changer. Here's what I found after running it through its paces:
Best Features:
Bombproof Build: Trijicon is known for ruggedness, and the RMR Type 2 lives up to the hype. It's taken bumps and bangs at the range without a single issue.
Dot Options: I went with the 3.25 MOA dot, which is a great balance between quick acquisition and precision aiming at typical lever gun ranges. Trijicon offers other dot sizes for different needs.
Battery Life: This thing sips power. I haven't had to change the battery yet, and Trijicon claims it lasts for years.
Advantages on a Lever Action:
Faster Sight Picture: Especially in low light or brushy environments, the red dot cuts down on target acquisition time. You get on target quicker and stay there during follow-up shots.
Versatility: The RMR Type 2 isn't so big that it blots out your field of view. It's a great option for close-range brush hunting or longer shots out in the open.
Aging Eyes Savior: Let's face it, eyesight isn't what it used to be. The red dot helps sharpen my sight picture and makes those precise shots more achievable.
Disadvantages to Consider:
Cost: Trijicon sights are top-dollar, and the RMR Type 2 is no exception. Be prepared to invest for the quality.
Bulk: It does add some weight and profile to the rifle compared to iron sights. But for me, the advantages outweigh this.
Mount Options: Depending on your lever action model, finding a good mounting solution might require some research.
My Experience:
Honestly, I'm kicking myself for not trying a red dot sight sooner. It's made a noticeable difference in my accuracy and confidence when using my lever gun. The sight itself is incredibly well-made, and the battery life is amazing. Sure, it's a bit pricey, but it's an investment that will last a lifetime.
There's a lot of online discussion about red dot sights on lever guns, and the RMR Type 2 frequently comes up. Users praise its durability, clarity of the dot, and the positive impact on their shooting. Some traditionalists still prefer irons, but many hunters have come around to the benefits of red dots on lever actions.
Overall, the Trijicon RMR Type 2 has been a fantastic upgrade for my lever gun. If you're on the fence about adding a red dot, I highly recommend giving it a try. You might just be surprised at how much it improves your shooting experience.
I snagged an Aimpoint ACRO P-2 red dot a while back, and the itch to try it on everything finally reached my trusty lever action. Here's the verdict: it's a capable little sight, but there are some things to consider before you ditch your peep sight.
Tiny Titan:
Let's start with the obvious - this thing is miniscule. It disappears almost entirely on the rifle, keeping the classic lines clean.
The sight picture is fantastic. The 3.5 MOA dot is sharp and clear, making for fast target acquisition at close to mid-range.
Durability is legendary Aimpoint. It's built like a tank and shrugs off recoil with ease.
Battery life is insane. Five years of constant use? Sign me up.
Caveats for Cowboys:
Now, the downsides. First, there's no magnification. Lever actions excel at brush hunting, where quick, close-up shots are common. The red dot shines here, but for those longer poke-throughs, you might miss the zoom of a traditional scope.
Field of view is slightly reduced compared to a peep sight. Not a deal-breaker, but it takes some getting used to.
Price. Let's be honest, these things aren't cheap. For a purely recreational lever gun, it might be a tough pill to swallow.
The Final Round:
Overall, the ACRO P-2 is a great red dot, but on a lever action, it's a niche choice. If you primarily hunt in thick woods or prioritize a fast, close-quarters optic, it's fantastic. However, for long-range hunting or those who love the traditional lever gun setup, a peep sight might still be king.
Online reviews are mixed. Some users rave about the lightning-fast target acquisition on their lever guns, while others find the lack of magnification a turn-off. It really boils down to your shooting style and preferred applications.
So, is the ACRO P-2 the perfect match for your lever action? It depends. It's a fantastic little red dot, but carefully consider your needs before replacing your trusty peep sight.
As a lever action enthusiast, I wasn't always sold on red dot sights. They seemed more at home on tactical rifles. But after looking for ways to improve my close-range game, I decided to give the Sig Sauer Romeo5 a try. Here's what I found:
Best Features & Advantages:
Fast sight picture: The red dot makes target acquisition lightning quick, especially compared to iron sights. This is a huge advantage in brush or fast-moving situations.
Battery life: Sig's MOTAC system is awesome. The red dot turns on with movement and shuts off when still, saving tons of battery. I haven't changed it since I mounted the sight months ago.
Durability: This thing feels built to last. It's taken some bumps on the range and hunting trips without a single issue.
Price: Compared to some high-end red dots, the Romeo5 is a great value. You get a lot of performance for your money.
Disadvantages & My Experience:
Limited range: Lever actions aren't long-range rifles, and the Romeo5 reflects that. It excels at closer distances, which is perfect for my brush hunting style.
Slight learning curve: Coming from iron sights, it took a little practice to get used to lining up the dot with the target. But after a few range sessions, it became second nature.
Online Buzz:
Customer reviews online are overwhelmingly positive. People love the Romeo5's durability, clarity of the dot, and of course, the battery life. Some reviewers mentioned a wish for a larger field of view, but overall, it seems most lever action shooters are happy with this red dot.
The Sig Sauer Romeo5 has transformed my lever action experience. It's fast, reliable, and tough. While it might not be for long-range shooting, for close and mid-range hunting, it's a fantastic option that won't break the bank.
I wasn't sure at first. A red dot sight, the Holosun HS507K specifically, on my trusty lever action rifle? It seemed like a setup for fans of AR-15s, not the classic Winchester I inherited. But let me tell you, this little red dot has become a game-changer.
Winning Features:
Size Matters: This sight is compact and lightweight, perfect for keeping my lever action nimble. It doesn't throw off the balance at all, which is crucial for quick handling.
Dual Reticle Power: I love the option to switch between a 2 MOA dot for precision shots and a 65 MOA circle for fast target acquisition. It makes those brush hunting situations a breeze.
Battery Life Champ: Holosun boasts a ridiculous 50,000-hour battery life on setting 6. Haven't had to change it yet, and frankly, I don't expect to for a long time.
The Good, the Not-So-Good:
Advantages: Faster target acquisition, especially in low light. More precise shot placement, particularly at longer ranges. Easier on my aging eyes - no more squinting down iron sights.
Disadvantages: It adds some cost to the rifle. The exposed lens might be more susceptible to snags or damage compared to a scope. Since it's a red dot, using it in bright sunlight can be tricky without adjusting the brightness.
Real World Results:
Taking this setup to the range, I was impressed by how quickly I picked up targets. The red dot is crisp and easy to see, making follow-up shots a snap. Out in the field, it's been a huge advantage, especially when that buck appears out of nowhere. The circle reticle helps get the dot on target fast, and then I can switch to the precise 2 MOA dot for the finishing shot.
Online reviews are generally positive. People love the compact size and the versatility of the dual reticle. Some folks who use it on AR platforms wish for a larger sight picture, but for my lever gun, it's perfect. There are a few comments about the brightness adjustment being a bit tricky in sunlight, but that's something I've gotten used to with practice.
Overall, the Holosun HS507K has breathed new life into my lever action. It's a great choice for anyone looking for a red dot sight that won't weigh down their classic rifle and can give them an edge in the field.
I wrestled with the idea of adding a red dot sight to my trusty lever action for a while. Tradition whispers in your ear with these rifles, but there's no denying my eyesight isn't what it used to be. So, I took the plunge with the Vortex Viper, and here's what I found.
Hits:
Fast Acquisition: The Viper excels here. Slap up the rifle, and the red dot is instantly there, making picking up targets a breeze. It's a huge advantage in close quarters or fast-paced shooting.
Built Like a Tank: Vortex products are renowned for durability, and the Viper is no exception. It feels solid in your hand and can take the knocks that come with hunting or range time.
Battery Life Champ: Vortex claims 150 hours on the highest setting, and user reviews back this up. I haven't had to change the battery yet, and that peace of mind is golden.
Misses:
Bulkier Profile: Let's be honest, the Viper adds some chunk to the rifle compared to iron sights. It's not a deal-breaker, but it alters the classic lines of a lever gun.
Dot Size: The Viper comes with a 6 MOA dot, which some folks find a bit large for precise shots at distance. While it's great for quick acquisition, those who like to stretch out their lever action might want to consider a smaller dot size offered by other red dot models.
Mount Might Be Needed: Depending on your lever action, you might need a separate mount to get the Viper to the right height. This adds to the cost and requires some tinkering.
In the Field:
Overall, the Viper has been a game-changer for my lever action. While I wouldn't say it's for everyone (especially the purists out there), the speed and clarity it brings to close-range shooting are undeniable. It's made me a more confident and effective shooter, especially in brushy environments where quick target acquisition is key.
Online Buzz:
Customer reviews on the Viper are generally positive. People love its durability, battery life, and the intuitive red dot. However, some folks, like me, mentioned the 6 MOA dot being a touch large for long-range lever action use. There's also some discussion about the need for separate mounts for certain rifles.
The Verdict:
The Vortex Viper is a solid red dot sight option for lever action rifles. If you're looking for a way to boost your close-range shooting performance without sacrificing reliability, it's definitely worth considering. Just be aware of the slightly bulkier profile and the potential need for a separate mount depending on your rifle.
In summary, choosing the best red dot for a lever-action means striking a balance of magnification, size, and eye relief For close to medium range, a no-magnification red dot like the Holosun 507c is ideal.
A low-powered variable scope (LPVO) like the Vortex Crossfire II offers versatility. Pistol-style red dots are possible, but ensure proper eye relief.