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Top 6 Best Red Dot For 3/8'' Dovetail

Many rifles and pistols come equipped with a 3/8" dovetail mounting system for adding sights. Red dot sights can be mounted on this platform, offering an alternative to iron sights.

This guide will explore the best red dot options specifically designed for 3/8" dovetail mounts, considering factors like weight, profile to maintain sight picture alignment, and ease of installation.

MY CHOICE 👇

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AT3 Tactical ARO Micro Red Dot⁠

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BSA Red Dot 30mm⁠

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Bushnell TRS-25⁠

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UTG 3.8" ITA Red/Green Dot Sight⁠

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CenterPoint Optics 32mm Open Reflex Sight⁠

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Sightmark Sure Shot Reflex Sight⁠

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Note: This article reflects my personal opinions. While the products mentioned may not be perfect for everyone, they might be useful for some readers.

Top 6 Best Red Dot Sights For 13/8'' Dovetail in 2024

AT3 Tactical ARO Micro Red Dot

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I recently installed the AT3 Tactical ARO Micro Red Dot on my rifle with a 3/8" dovetail mount, and for the price, I'm pretty impressed. Here's a breakdown of my experience:

Specs:

3 MOA red dot

Multi-coated lenses

6 brightness settings

IPX67 waterproof

Weight: 1.8 oz

Includes picatinny mount and top-loading battery compartment

Best Features:

Affordable: This sight won't break the bank, making it a good option for budget-minded shooters.

Compact Design: The lightweight and low-profile design makes it perfect for both rifles and pistols.

Large Field of View: Despite its size, the ARO offers a surprisingly wide viewing area for quick target acquisition.

Versatile Mount: It comes with a picatinny mount, but it's also compatible with popular Burris Fastfire and Vortex Venom mounts, making it a good fit for various dovetail setups.

Advantages:

Easy to Use: The tactile adjustment knobs make zeroing a breeze, and the top-loading battery compartment is convenient.

Shockproof and Waterproof: The ARO can handle bumps and the elements, giving you peace of mind.

Clear Optics: The multi-coated lenses provide good clarity, and the 3 MOA dot is crisp for accurate aiming.

Disadvantages:

Limited Brightness: Some users report that the dot can be difficult to see in bright sunlight, even on the highest setting.

Non-intuitive Controls: The buttons for adjusting brightness require a bit of getting used to, as you have to cycle through all the settings instead of going up or down directly.

My Experience:

Overall, I've been happy with the AT3 ARO. It's a good value for the price, and it performs well for plinking and target shooting. However, if you plan to use it for competition or tactical applications, a higher-end sight with a more adjustable dot might be a better choice.

What Others Are Saying:

Customer reviews online are mixed. Some users praise the ARO's affordability and functionality, while others criticize the limited brightness and button layout. One common theme is that it's a decent option for casual use, but may not be ideal for serious applications.

Final Verdict:

The AT3 ARO Micro Red Dot is a solid choice for budget-conscious shooters looking for a basic red dot sight for their dovetail mount. While it has some limitations, it offers good value for the price and delivers a clear sight picture for recreational shooting. If you're a competitive shooter or need a sight for critical applications, you might want to consider investing in a more feature-rich option.

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BSA Red Dot 30mm

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If you're looking for a no-frills red dot sight for your rifle or air gun that uses a 3/8" dovetail mount, the BSA Red Dot 30mm is a solid option. It's definitely a budget-friendly choice, and while it might not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, it gets the job done.

Specs and Features:

30mm red dot: This is a decent size for quick target acquisition.

5 MOA dot: Not the most precise, but perfectly adequate for close to mid-range shooting.

11 brightness settings: This lets you adjust the red dot's intensity for various lighting conditions.

Weaver and dovetail mounts: This makes it compatible with a wide range of rifles and air guns.

One-year warranty: Not bad for a budget sight.

Best Features:

Simple and easy to use: There's not a lot to mess with here. Just mount it, sight it in, and you're good to go.

Lightweight: Doesn't add much weight to your firearm.

Affordable: This is a great choice for budget-conscious shooters.

What to Consider:

Durability: Some users online mention concerns about the build quality, especially at the price point. I haven't had any issues myself, but it's something to keep in mind if you're expecting a top-of-the-line sight.

Limited adjustability: The windage and elevation adjustments are pretty basic. Fine-tuning your zero might take a bit more work.

Not the best for long-range shooting: The 5 MOA dot can cover up a decent amount of target at distance.

Overall:

For plinking or target shooting at close to medium range, the BSA Red Dot 30mm is a great value. It's easy to use, affordable, and gets the job done. If you're looking for a competition-grade sight with all the bells and whistles, you might want to look elsewhere. But for casual shooters on a budget, this BSA is a solid option.

What people are saying online:

Customer reviews tend to mirror my experience. People appreciate the simplicity and affordability, while some acknowledge concerns about durability. There are also a few mentions of the brightness settings being a bit finicky, but overall, most users seem happy with their purchase.

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Bushnell Trophy TRS-25

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As someone who loves tinkering with my rifles for different shooting styles, I decided to try out a red dot sight for faster target acquisition. The Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 seemed like a good budget option, especially for my rifle with a 3/8" dovetail rail (it mounts easily with the included Picatinny rail adapter). Here's my experience:

Specs and Features:

1x magnification, 25mm objective lens

3 MOA red dot reticle (a bit on the large side for some)

11 brightness settings - great for various lighting conditions

Waterproof and fogproof - no worries about getting caught in the rain

Shockproof - held zero even after some bumps at the range

Best Features:

Easy to mount: Swapped out the iron sights in a snap thanks to the included mount.

Budget-friendly: Didn't break the bank to add red dot functionality.

Built tough: Seems like it can handle normal range use and hunting.

Advantages:

Faster target acquisition: Huge difference compared to iron sights, especially on close-range targets.

Both-eyes-open shooting: Made it easier to stay aware of surroundings while aiming.

Usable on multiple platforms: Can be switched between my AR-15 and my .22 with the appropriate mount.

Disadvantages:

Larger 3 MOA dot: Not ideal for long-range precision shooting, but fine for close-quarters.

Battery life could be better: Seems to drain a little quicker than some higher-end options.

Not the clearest glass: Glass quality isn't amazing, but it gets the job done for most situations.

My Experience:

Overall, the TRS-25 has been a good red dot for the price. It's easy to use, reliable, and takes a beating. While the dot size and glass aren't top-notch, they're sufficient for plinking and close-range shooting. If you're looking for a no-frills red dot for your dovetail rail rifle, the TRS-25 is a solid option.

What Others Are Saying:

Browsing online forums, I've seen users praising the TRS-25 for its affordability and ease of use. However, some hunters have mentioned the dot being a bit large for precise varmint hunting. Battery life seems to be a common point of discussion, with some users wishing it lasted longer.

Final Verdict:

The Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 is a dependable red dot sight, particularly for casual target shooting and quick target acquisition on your dovetail rail rifle. If you're a budget-minded shooter who wants to try out red dots, this is a great place to start. Just keep in mind the limitations on long-range precision and battery life.

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UTG 3.8" ITA Red/Green Dot Sight

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I picked up a UTG 3.8" ITA Red/Green Dot Sight a while back for my AR-15 with a standard 3/8" dovetail mount, and I've gotta say, it's been a decent budget optic. Here's the breakdown:

Specs:

38mm tube diameter

Red/green dual illumination with multiple brightness settings

4 MOA dot (clear and crisp)

Windage and elevation adjustments with 1/2 MOA clicks

Integral mount for dovetail rails

Best Features:

Easy to use: The red/green dot reticle is simple and effective for quick target acquisition. Swapping between colors is a breeze depending on lighting conditions.

Holds zero well: After an initial sight in, it's held zero for me through range sessions without issue.

Affordable: Let's be honest, this sight isn't breaking the bank.

Advantages:

Lightweight: Doesn't add much bulk to your firearm.

Decent field of view: No tunnel vision here.

Integral mount saves time and money: No need to buy a separate mount for dovetail compatibility.

Disadvantages:

Not the most precise: Fine adjustments might be tricky with the 1/2 MOA clicks.

Illumination isn't the brightest: Can be a bit dim in bright sunlight.

Durability concerns: Some online reviews mention concerns about long-term durability, especially on high-caliber rifles.

My Experience:

For plinking and target shooting at the range, this sight does the job. The dot is clear, and the integral mount makes setup a snap. However, if you're looking for a top-of-the-line optic for serious competition or tactical use, you might want to consider something a bit more robust.

Online Buzz:

Customer reviews are mixed. Some folks praise the affordability and ease of use, while others mention issues with durability and brightness. One common theme is that it's a great option for casual use but might not be ideal for heavy-duty applications.

Overall:

For the price, the UTG 3.8" ITA Red/Green Dot Sight is a decent choice for recreational use on a dovetail mount. If you're a serious shooter or need the absolute best optics money can buy, this probably isn't your best bet. But for plinking and target practice, it gets the job done.

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CenterPoint Optics 32mm Open Reflex Sight

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I recently picked up the CenterPoint Optics 32mm Open Reflex Sight for my new .22LR rifle. As someone who's new to red dot sights, I was looking for an affordable option to get me started without breaking the bank. This little guy fit the bill perfectly at around $40.

Here's a breakdown of my experience:

Specs:

32mm objective lens

Red/green illumination with 4 reticle options (dot, circle dot, etc.)

1 MOA dot size

Weaver mount (may require an adapter for dovetail)

Unlimited eye relief

Best Features:

Budget-friendly: This is definitely the sight's biggest selling point. For the price, it's hard to beat.

Quick acquisition: The large 32mm window and unlimited eye relief make finding the red dot fast and easy.

Multiple reticles: Having a choice of reticles is a nice touch, allowing you to find one that suits your shooting style.

Advantages:

Lightweight: This sight is super light, which is great for keeping your rifle maneuverable.

Easy to use: There's no magnification to worry about, and the controls are simple - just a rheostat knob for brightness adjustment.

Decent battery life: I've gotten several range trips out of a single battery so far.

Disadvantages:

Durability concerns: Let's be honest, at this price point, you're not getting top-of-the-line build quality. It feels a little plastic-y.

Questionable accuracy: While it works for plinking at the range, I wouldn't trust it for serious target shooting. The dot might not be the most precise.

Mount: The sight comes with a Weaver mount, which might not fit your rifle without an adapter.

My Experience:

Overall, I've been having a good time with the CenterPoint sight. It's definitely helped me improve my target acquisition speed, and it's a lot of fun to use. However, I can see why some reviews mention limitations. If you're a casual shooter or plinker like me, it's a great red dot to get your feet wet. But if you're looking for competition-level accuracy or a bombproof sight, you might want to consider spending more.

Online Buzz:

Customer reviews on [retailer sites] are a mixed bag. Some folks praise the affordability and ease of use, while others mention concerns about durability and the need for an adapter mount.

One thing to keep in mind is that a lot of users seem happy with this sight for airsoft or rimfire rifles. If you're using it on a higher caliber gun, you might want to go for a more robust option.

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Sightmark Sure Shot Reflex Sight

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As someone who loves tinkering with my rifles and experimenting with sights, I decided to try the Sightmark Sure Shot Reflex Sight for my .22LR with a 3/8" dovetail rail. Here's what I found:

Specs and Features:

Mount: Fits standard 3/8" dovetail rails

Reticle: Four illuminated reticle options (red dot being the most common)

Material: Full metal construction

Weight: Lightweight and unobtrusive

Battery: CR123A (advertised long battery life)

Best Features:

Easy to mount: The dovetail mount made installation a breeze, no gunsmith needed.

Quick target acquisition: The large viewing area and illuminated reticle made picking up targets fast and easy, especially at close range.

Durability: The full metal build feels solid and seems like it can take a beating.

Advantages:

Great for close-quarters: Perfect for plinking or situations where fast target acquisition is key.

Versatility: The multiple reticle options allow for some customization depending on your shooting style.

Budget-friendly: Compared to some higher-end reflex sights, the Sure Shot is a very affordable option.

Disadvantages:

Limited range: Not ideal for long-range shooting due to the nature of reflex sights.

Reticle brightness: While there are multiple brightness settings, some users online mention it might not be the brightest on the market.

Durability concerns: There are a few online discussions about the sight losing zero after heavy recoil on larger calibers.

My Experience:

For plinking with my .22LR on a 3/8" rail, the Sure Shot has been great. It's easy to use, rugged enough, and the red dot reticle makes picking up targets at the range super fast. However, I wouldn't trust it for long-range shooting or put it on a high-caliber rifle due to the potential durability issues raised by some online users.

Online Customer Comments:

Customer reviews seem mixed. Some users, like me, find it to be a perfect budget option for plinking and small game hunting on compatible rifles. Others have expressed concerns about the brightness of the reticle and durability on larger calibers.

Overall, the Sightmark Sure Shot Reflex Sight is a solid choice for someone looking for an affordable and easy-to-use reflex sight for their .22LR or other rifles with a 3/8" dovetail rail. Just keep in mind its limitations for long-range shooting and potentially heavy recoil calibers.

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How to Choose the Best Red Dot For 3/8'' Dovetail

Choosing the best red dot sight for a 3/8" dovetail mount involves considering several factors to match your needs and preferences. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Mount Compatibility:

Ensure the red dot sight has a built-in 3/8" dovetail mount or an adapter plate compatible with your firearm's dovetail.

Red Dot Size (MOA):

MOA (Minute of Angle) refers to the size of the red dot in the sight picture.

A smaller dot (1-2 MOA) offers more precision for long-range target shooting.

A larger dot (3-6 MOA) provides faster target acquisition for close-range shooting.

Field of View:

A wider field of view allows for better situational awareness, especially useful for close-quarters combat scenarios.

A narrower field of view may offer a more focused sight picture for target shooting.

Durability:

Consider the materials and construction of the red dot sight.

If you plan on using it for rugged activities, choose a sight built to withstand recoil and impacts.

Weight:

A lightweight red dot sight is ideal for maintaining a balanced feel on your firearm, especially for long hunting trips.

Battery Life:

Red dot sights are typically battery-powered. Choose a sight with long battery life or one that uses a readily available battery type.

Night Vision Compatibility:

If you plan on using night vision, ensure the red dot sight has a night vision compatible mode with an adjustable low-light setting.

Price:

Red dot sights range in price from budget-friendly options to high-end models. Determine your budget and prioritize the features most important to you.

Conclusion

If you're mounting a red dot on a rifle with a 3/8" dovetail mount, consider the weight of the red dot in relation to your barrel profile. Burris and Weaver offer traditional red dot sights known for their durability and affordability, making them suitable for rimfire rifles or lightweight hunting rifles.

Top 6 Best Red Dot Sights For 13/8'' Dovetail in 2024

AT3 Tactical ARO Micro Red Dot

BSA Red Dot 30mm

Bushnell Trophy TRS-25

UTG 3.8" ITA Red/Green Dot Sight

CenterPoint Optics 32mm Open Reflex Sight

Sightmark Sure Shot Reflex Sight

How to Choose the Best Red Dot For 3/8'' Dovetail

Conclusion

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