The Benelli Nova is a popular choice for waterfowl hunting and home defense due to its pump-action reliability and affordability.
A red dot sight can significantly improve your target acquisition in low-light situations, especially beneficial for waterfowl hunting.
This guide will explore the best red dot options for the Benelli Nova, considering factors like waterproof capabilities, durability for harsh environments, and ease of use with shotgun controls.
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 Benelli Nova in 2024
Trijicon RMR Type 2
Let me tell you, the Trijicon RMR Type 2 red dot sight has been a game-changer for my Benelli Nova. This shotgun is a workhorse, but the iron sights left me wanting more precision, especially in low-light situations. The RMR Type 2 stepped in and delivered in a big way.
Specs and Features:
Compact size: Doesn't obstruct the sight picture or interfere with shotgun handling.
Rugged design: Built to handle the recoil of 12-gauge shells, no worries about it losing zero.
Tritium illumination: Battery-free dot for quick target acquisition, even without batteries (although there's a battery option for extra brightness).
Automatic brightness adjustment: Saves battery life and ensures a clear dot in any lighting.
Advantages:
Improved accuracy: The red dot makes lining up on targets a breeze, especially when the adrenaline is pumping.
Faster target acquisition: No more fumbling with iron sights, especially in low light.
Durable construction: This sight is built to last, a perfect match for the dependable Benelli Nova.
Disadvantages:
Price: Let's be honest, Trijicon sights aren't cheap. But for the quality and performance, it's worth the investment in my opinion.
Limited field of view: Compared to a holographic sight, the field of view is a bit narrower. However, for shotgun use at closer ranges, it's a non-issue for me.
My Experience:
Since mounting the RMR Type 2, I've noticed a significant improvement in my shotgun skills. Target acquisition is noticeably faster, and my shot groups are tighter. It's given me a confidence boost, especially when hitting clays on the skeet range or patterning buckshot loads.
Customer Chatter:
Online reviews seem to mirror my experience. People rave about the RMR Type 2's durability and performance on shotguns. Some folks mention a bit of a learning curve with using a red dot sight, but everyone agrees it's worth the effort.
Overall, the Trijicon RMR Type 2 is a fantastic upgrade for my Benelli Nova. It's improved my accuracy, speed, and overall confidence with the shotgun. While the price tag might sting a bit, the quality and performance justify it for me. If you're looking to take your Benelli Nova to the next level, the Trijicon RMR Type 2 is definitely worth considering.
I strapped a Leupold DeltaPoint Pro red dot sight on my trusty Benelli Nova a while back, and let me tell you, it's been a game changer. Here's the breakdown on why it's a great choice, along with some insights from my own experience and what other hunters are saying online.
Specs and Features:
Lightweight and compact design, perfect for a shotgun like the Nova.
Crisp, 2 MOA red dot for fast target acquisition.
Adjustable brightness for various lighting conditions.
Motion sensor automatically puts the sight on low power when not in use, extending battery life (which is already impressive).
Rugged and waterproof construction – key for those unexpected downpours in the field.
Best Features in Action:
The DeltaPoint Pro truly shines in the speed it brings to my aiming. Forget fiddling with iron sights in the heat of the moment – the red dot is there, instinctive to pick up, and lets me focus on the target. It's especially helpful in low-light situations, where turkeys or hogs love to emerge. The motion sensor is a big plus – no more fumbling to turn the sight on or off in the blind.
Advantages Over Iron Sights:
Faster target acquisition, especially in low light.
Improved accuracy, especially for quick shots.
Less fatigue on the eyes during long hunts.
Disadvantages to Consider:
Price – Leupold optics are known for their quality, but the DeltaPoint Pro does come with a premium price tag.
Battery dependence – While the battery life is great, having a spare on hand is a good idea.
Bulkier profile compared to iron sights (though for a shotgun like the Nova, it's not a huge deal).
My Experience:
Since mounting the DeltaPoint Pro, I've noticed a significant improvement in my hunting success. It's given me more confidence and cuts down on reaction time. The sight itself is built tough and has taken a few bumps and scrapes without issue.
What Others Are Saying:
Online reviews are generally positive. Hunters praise the DeltaPoint Pro's durability, clarity of the dot, and the ease of use. Some folks mention a bit of a learning curve when switching from iron sights, but everyone agrees it's worth the adjustment period.
Overall:
If you're looking to upgrade your Benelli Nova and elevate your shotgun hunting game, the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro is a fantastic choice. It's a solid investment that will give you the edge in the field. Just be prepared for the initial cost and the fact that you might need to adjust your aiming technique a bit. But trust me, the switch is well worth it.
This little powerhouse packs a punch of features that make it the perfect companion for my shotgun, especially when it comes to faster target acquisition and improved accuracy.
Specs and Features:
Built Like a Tank: This sight is built to withstand anything I throw at it, from rain and mud to the inevitable bumps that come with hunting. The housing is seriously tough, giving me peace of mind wherever I take it.
Battery Life Champ: Who needs to worry about a dead battery in the heat of the moment? The Micro H-2 boasts a ridiculous 50,000 hours of battery life on a single AA. That's basically "set it and forget it" for years.
See It All: With 12 different brightness settings, I can adjust the red dot to be perfect for any lighting condition, from bright sunshine to low-light situations. No more squinting or fumbling in the field.
Lightweight King: Despite its impressive build, the Micro H-2 is surprisingly light. It doesn't throw off the balance of my Nova at all, which is important for those long days afield.
What I Love:
Fast on the Draw: The red dot makes target acquisition a breeze. I can pick up birds on the flush much faster and get a bead on them quicker. This translates to more successful hunts and a happier me.
Built to Last: This sight feels like it could survive a nuclear winter. Knowing it can handle the recoil of my shotgun and the elements gives me a ton of confidence.
Always Ready: The insane battery life means I never have to worry about the sight dying on me. It's one less thing to think about when I'm out there.
What to Consider:
Pricey Piece: Let's be honest, the Micro H-2 isn't cheap. But for me, the reliability and performance justify the cost. It's an investment that will last for years.
Smaller Lens: The sight picture isn't quite as large as some other red dots on the market. However, I haven't found this to be a major drawback, especially with the speed and clarity of the red dot.
Real World Results:
Since slapping this sight on my Nova, I've seen a noticeable improvement in my shooting. My target acquisition is faster, and my follow-through feels smoother. It's made me a more confident and effective shotgunner.
What Others Are Saying:
There's a reason the Micro H-2 is a popular choice. Online forums are filled with positive reviews praising its durability, battery life, and overall performance. Some users do mention the higher price point, but most agree it's worth the investment for a top-of-the-line red dot sight.
Overall, the Aimpoint Micro H-2 and my Benelli Nova make a fantastic team. It's a reliable, high-quality sight that's helped me take my shotgunning to the next level. If you're looking for a red dot that can keep up with your adventures, the Micro H-2 is definitely worth considering.
Super lightweight – didn't weigh down my Nova at all.
2 MOA dot reticle – perfect for quick target acquisition on flying feathers.
12 brightness settings – from blazing daylight to pre-dawn hunts, I had a crisp sight picture.
Solar backup panel – no more scrambling for batteries in the field, a lifesaver!
Lock mode – prevented accidental adjustments when bumping through brush.
Best Features:
The lightning-fast target acquisition is unreal. Gone are the days of struggling to line up the bead sight with a flapping target. The red dot makes it instinctive.
Battery life is insane – Holosun claims 50,000 hours, and I haven't even come close to needing a replacement yet.
The solar panel is a fantastic touch. No more worries about a dead battery ruining a hunt.
Advantages for the Benelli Nova:
This sight bridges the gap between a traditional shotgun and a turkey gun. Makes the Nova way more versatile.
Tightens up shot patterns at close to medium range – great for clays or fast-moving targets.
Adds a whole new level of confidence to my shooting. Knowing I can get on target quicker is a game changer.
Disadvantages and Quirks:
It's not cheap, but the upgrade in performance makes it worth it in my opinion.
The sight picture can be a little blurry at high magnifications, but that's not a big deal for shotgun use.
Finding the right mount for the Benelli Nova can be a bit of a hassle – some extra research is needed.
My Experience:
Since mounting the HS507C X2, my shotgunning success rate has skyrocketed. Those morning dove hunts are a whole lot less frustrating now! The sight is built tough, shrugs off bumps and scrapes, and the solar panel keeps it powered up. Sure, the price tag stings a bit, but the overall value is undeniable.
Online Buzz:
There's a lot of love for the HS507C X2 online. People rave about the battery life, the clear dot, and the rugged construction. A few folks mentioned some difficulty with finding the right mount for specific shotguns, but overall, the reviews are overwhelmingly positive.
If you're looking to take your Benelli Nova to the next level, the Holosun HS507C X2 is a fantastic option. Just be prepared to do some research on the proper mounting solution. For me, the added speed and precision have made this a worthwhile investment.
Sig Sauer Romeo5 red dot sight is a fantastic upgrade for my Benelli Nova pump shotgun. It's transformed the way I approach turkey hunting and close-range big game stalking. Here's a breakdown of my experience with this sight:
Specs and Features:
Lightweight and compact - perfect for maintaining the Nova's balance.
2 MOA red dot - ideal for quick target acquisition.
Motion-activated illumination - powers up automatically when raised.
Multiple brightness settings - adapts to various lighting conditions.
IPX7 waterproof - no worries about rain or dunking during waterfowl hunting.
Best Features:
The red dot makes shotgunning so much faster. Especially with turkeys, that split-second matters. No more lining up the bead sight, I just focus on the target and the dot centers itself. Plus, the motion activation is a game-changer. No fumbling with buttons in the heat of the moment.
Advantages:
Faster target acquisition: Especially in low light or dense brush.
Improved accuracy: Precise red dot eliminates sight alignment issues.
Increased confidence: Knowing you can put the shot exactly where you want it.
Versatility: Works great for various hunting applications.
Disadvantages:
Cost: Adding a red dot sight can be an investment.
Battery life: While it lasts a good while, it's something to keep an eye on during extended hunts.
My Experience:
Honestly, the Romeo5 has made me a more effective shotgun hunter. It's especially helpful for those fast-paced situations where every second counts. The sight is easy to use and built tough. It's held up perfectly through rain, mud, and the general bumps and scrapes that come with hunting.
Online Buzz:
Looking online, other hunters seem to share my enthusiasm. There's a lot of praise for the Romeo5's durability, clarity of the red dot, and ease of use. Some reviewers mentioned a slight learning curve with using a red dot sight on a shotgun, but overall, the sentiment is very positive.
If you're looking to up your Benelli Nova's game, the Sig Sauer Romeo5 red dot sight is a top-notch option. It's given me an edge in the field and helped me take down some impressive birds. In my opinion, the improved performance is absolutely worth the investment.
As a Benelli Nova owner, I was looking for a red dot sight that could handle the recoil of my 12-gauge shotgun without breaking the bank. The Vortex Venom kept popping up in my research, and after giving it a shot (pun intended), I can confidently say it's a great choice for this pump-action favorite.
Specs and Features:
Lightweight and compact design (perfect for a shotgun)
Multi-level red dot intensity for various lighting conditions
MOA (Minute of Angle) adjustments for precise zeroing
Motion activation option for automatic power saving
Uses a common CR2032 battery (easy to find replacements)
Why I Love It:
The Venom's biggest win for me is its durability. It's built tough and shrugs off the Nova's kickback without issue. The red dot is crisp and clear, making target acquisition a breeze. Plus, the multiple brightness settings let me use it in everything from bright fields to low-light blinds. The motion activation is a nice touch, extending battery life for those long days afield.
Downsides to Consider:
It's not the fanciest red dot on the market. You won't find fancy reticles or night vision compatibility here. But for the price, it's hard to beat the Venom's functionality.
In the Field:
The Venom has transformed my Nova from a close-range turkey thumper to a versatile shotgun. Whether I'm on the clays course or lining up on a distant coyote, the red dot makes getting on target fast and intuitive. It's given me newfound confidence in my shotgun skills.
What Others Are Saying:
Online reviews for the Vortex Venom are overwhelmingly positive. People love its durability, affordability, and clear sight picture. Some wish for a wider field of view, but overall, hunters and shooters praise the Venom as a great value for the money.
If you're looking for a no-frills red dot sight that can handle the business on your Benelli Nova, the Vortex Venom is absolutely worth considering. It's a solid performer that won't break the bank.