As an avid shooter and a fan of the Remington 870, I've spent considerable time experimenting with various optics to enhance my shooting experience. The Remington 870 is a versatile shotgun that's widely respected in hunting, sport shooting, and tactical environments. Adding a red dot sight to this dependable firearm can significantly improve your accuracy, target acquisition speed, and overall shooting performance.
In this article, I'll walk you through some of the best red dot sights I've personally tested on my Remington 870. I'll cover each product's specifications, features, pros, cons, and my personal experience using them. I'll also include insights from online customer reviews to give you a well-rounded view of how these sights perform in different scenarios.
Top 4 Best Red Dot Sights for Remington 870 of 2025
1. Aimpoint PRO Patrol Rifle Optic
Specifications:
Battery Life: Up to 30,000 hours Mount: QRP2 Mount included Housing Material: High-strength aluminum Best Features:
Robust construction designed for tactical use Clear, bright dot that's easy to acquire in various lighting conditions Pros:
Extremely durable and weather-resistant Very easy to mount and setup Offers consistently reliable performance Cons:
Heavier than some other models Premium price point might be a barrier for some Experience When Using the Product:
Mounting the Aimpoint PRO on my 870 was straightforward, thanks to the QRP2 mount. The optic feels solid, and the 2 MOA dot is crisp, aiding in quick target engagement. I've used this in rain and sunny conditions, and it performed flawlessly in both.
Online Customer Comments:
Many users echo my sentiments, noting the Aimpoint PRO’s exceptional durability and reliability. The high battery life is frequently highlighted in forums and reviews, making it a "fit and forget" type of gear.
2. Vortex Optics StrikeFire II Red Dot Sight
Specifications:
Battery Life: Up to 7,000 hours Mount: Cantilever ring mount Best Features:
Option to switch between red and green dots Pros:
Versatile color settings enhance visibility in different environments High-value option with good performance Easy to adjust settings and controls Cons:
Battery life shorter than some competitors Larger dot size can cover more of the target at longer distances Experience When Using the Product:
The StrikeFire II was a joy to use, especially with the option to switch between red and green dots based on ambient lighting conditions. The mount provided a secure fit on my 870, and the controls were intuitive.
Online Customer Comments:
Users praise the Vortex Optics StrikeFire II for its affordability and versatility. However, some note the 4 MOA dot might be too large for precision shooting beyond close-range targets.
3. Holosun HS510C
Specifications:
Dot Size: 2 MOA Dot & 65 MOA Circle Battery Life: Up to 50,000 hours Housing: Aluminum with titanium hood Best Features:
Hybrid power (solar and battery) Pros:
Extremely long battery life supplemented by solar power Versatile reticle choices suitable for different shooting applications Durable with a protective titanium hood Cons:
Somewhat bulky on a shotgun like the 870 Higher price point compared to some other red dots Experience When Using the Product:
The Holosun HS510C offers a broad field of view, which is fantastic for situational awareness. The dual reticle system (dot and circle) enhances target acquisition, making it excellent for both home defense and sport shooting.
Online Customer Comments:
Most feedback on the HS510C is overwhelmingly positive, particularly about its clear optics and innovative power solutions. Some shooters find the size a bit large for a shotgun but appreciate the features it brings.
4. Bushnell TRS-25
Specifications:
Battery Life: Up to 3,000 hours Best Features:
Pros:
Small and unobtrusive on the 870 Ideal for beginners or those on a budget Reliable performance for the price Cons:
Limited features compared to higher-end models Experience When Using the Product:
The TRS-25 is a no-frills red dot that does exactly what it needs to without any complexity. It’s perfect for quick outings and doesn't add much weight to the shotgun.
Online Customer Comments:
The Bushnell TRS-25 is often recommended as an entry-level red dot. Users like its simplicity and low cost, though some wish for longer battery life and better resistance to the elements.
How to Choose the Best Red Dot Sight for Remington 870?
Reticle Size: Red dot size affects both speed and precision. A larger dot offers faster target acquisition, while a smaller dot provides better accuracy for longer ranges.
Durability: Shotguns produce recoil. Choose a red dot sight built to handle the impact without losing zero (sight alignment).
Mounting Options: Ensure the sight is compatible with a mount designed for the Remington 870 rail system. Popular options include picatinny and weaver rails.
Battery Life: Consider how long you plan to use the red dot per outing and choose a sight with appropriate battery life. Some offer auto-shutoff features to conserve battery.
Budget: Red dot sights range in price from affordable to high-end. Determine your budget and prioritize features most important to you.
FAQs
Q: What are the benefits of using a red dot sight on a Remington 870?
A: Faster target acquisition, improved accuracy (especially in low light), and maintaining situational awareness with both eyes open.
Q: What red dot sight features are most important for a Remington 870?
A: Durability, a clear and crisp red dot, and a mount compatible with your Remington 870.
Q: Where can I find a good red dot sight mount for a Remington 870?
A: Many manufacturers offer red dot sight mounts specifically designed for the Remington 870. Search online or consult a gunsmith for recommendations.
Q: How much does a red dot sight typically cost for a Remington 870?
A: Prices vary depending on brand, features, and quality. Expect a range of $100 to $500 or more.
Conclusion
Choosing the best red dot for your Remington 870 depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.
From robust, feature-rich models like the Aimpoint PRO and Holosun HS510C to more economical choices like the Vortex StrikeFire II and Bushnell TRS-25, there is a sight out there that will meet your requirements.
Each of these products offers a unique set of features and has been field-tested for reliability and effectiveness.
Whether you're defending your home, hitting targets at the range, or out in the field hunting, upgrading your 870 with a red dot sight can significantly enhance your shooting accuracy and enjoyment.