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5 Best Red Dot For Shotgun Bird Hunting

Looking to gain an edge for upland bird hunting? A red dot on your shotgun can significantly improve target acquisition and accuracy in those fast-paced scenarios. Let's explore the best red dot options for bird hunting and the advantages they offer.

MY CHOICE 👇

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Bushnell RXS-250⁠

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Sig Sauer Romeo5⁠

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Trijicon RMR Type 2⁠

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Trijicon SRO⁠

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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 5 Best Red Dot Sights for Shotgun Bird Hunting in 2024

Aimpoint ACRO S-2

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As a bird hunter who's always looking to up my game, I gotta say the Aimpoint ACRO S-2 red dot sight is a game-changer. Here's the breakdown on why I love it, what could be better, and what other hunters are saying.

Why it's awesome for wingshooting:

Fast target acquisition: The big 9 MOA red dot makes picking out those quick flashes of feathers a breeze. No more scrambling to line up sights in the heat of the moment.

Wide field of view: Unlike a traditional scope, the ACRO S-2 lets you see the whole scene with both eyes open. This keeps you aware of surroundings and flushing birds.

Low profile design: It sits super close to the barrel, keeping the gun feeling balanced and allowing for a natural head position. No more hunching uncomfortably!

Battery life for days: Aimpoint claims 50,000 hours on a single battery. I haven't put that many hours in yet, but multiple hunts on one charge is a huge plus.

Downsides to consider:

Price tag: Let's be honest, it's a high-end sight. You're definitely making an investment.

Dot size: The 9 MOA dot might be a bit much for some. It covers more area than a smaller dot, which could be an issue for long-range clays or hunting smaller birds.

Versatility: While it excels at wingshooting, it might not be your only sight if you hunt big game too.

My experience:

Since I slapped this sight on my shotgun, I've noticed a clear improvement in my hit rate. Especially on those fast-flying targets that used to disappear before I could get a bead. The wide field of view is fantastic for tracking birds in flight, and the dot itself is crisp and bright. Plus, the low profile keeps the gun handling light and fast.

Online reviews are generally positive. People love the quick target acquisition, the durability, and the long battery life. Some hunters with rifles mention using it for close-quarters shooting as well. However, a few folks found the 9 MOA dot a bit large for their taste, especially for clays, and the price point is a sticking point for some.

Overall, the Aimpoint ACRO S-2 is a fantastic red dot sight for shotgun bird hunting. It's given me a confidence boost in the field, and that's translated to more birds in the bag. If you're a serious wingshooter looking to elevate your game, this sight is definitely worth considering, but be prepared to shell out some cash.

Best Overall: Bushnell RXS-250 Reflex

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As a bird hunter, I'm always on the lookout for gear that can give me an edge. That's why I decided to try the Bushnell RXS-250 Reflex red dot sight on my shotgun. Here's what I found:

Best Features:

Long Battery Life: This is a huge selling point for me. Bushnell claims a whopping 50,000 hours on the middle brightness setting, which basically translates to years of use without a change. No more scrambling for batteries in the field!

Rugged Design: Being out in the elements, I need gear that can take a beating. The RXS-250 feels solid and well-built, and it's held up great during my hunting trips.

Versatile Mount: The included weaver mount fits my shotgun perfectly, but the DeltaPoint Pro footprint compatibility opens up options for future rifles or pistols.

Advantages in the Field:

Faster Target Acquisition: The red dot makes picking up fast-moving birds a breeze. No more struggling to align iron sights in the heat of the moment. This sight lets me focus on the bird, not the gun.

Improved Accuracy: Especially at closer ranges, the red dot helps tighten up my shot grouping. It's a confidence booster knowing I have a precise aiming point.

Lightweight and Low Profile: The RXS-250 doesn't add much weight to my shotgun, and the sleek design keeps it out of the way when I shoulder the gun.

Disadvantages to Consider:

4 MOA Dot: The 4 MOA dot might be a bit large for some hunters, especially for long-range shots. It works well for me on birds, but for smaller targets, a smaller dot size might be preferable.

Price Point: Compared to some budget red dot sights, the RXS-250 sits at a slightly higher price point. However, the build quality and battery life justify the cost in my opinion.

My Experience:

Overall, I've been very impressed with the Bushnell RXS-250. It's made a noticeable difference in my bird hunting success. The quick target acquisition and improved accuracy have led to more clean kills and less wasted cripples. The long battery life and rugged design give me peace of mind knowing it'll hold up in the field.

While not the most talked-about red dot out there, customer reviews for the RXS-250 are generally positive. People seem to echo my experience, praising the long battery life, durability, and ease of use. A few hunters mentioned they wished for a dot size option, but for most shotgun bird hunting applications, the 4 MOA dot seems to be a good fit.

If you're a bird hunter looking for a reliable red dot sight that can help you improve your game, the Bushnell RXS-250 is definitely worth considering.

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Best Value: Sig Sauer ROMEO5

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As a bird hunter who's always looking to up my game, I decided to take the plunge and try the Sig Sauer ROMEO5 red dot sight on my shotgun. Here's the rundown from my perspective:

Why I Dig It:

Fast Target Acquisition: The red dot makes picking out flying feathers a breeze. No more struggling to line up a bead sight in the heat of the moment. Those quick flushes become less frantic and more about shot placement.

Both Eyes Open: This is a game-changer. Keeping both eyes open gives you superior situational awareness, letting you spot birds quicker and track them through the undergrowth.

Durable & Built to Last: This sight feels tough as nails. It's handled everything I've thrown at it so far, from rain to accidental bumps. Plus, the battery life is insane - Sig says 40,000 hours!

Not So Perfect:

Extra Weight: Slap it on, and you'll definitely notice a weight difference compared to a bare shotgun. It's not a deal-breaker, but it takes some getting used to.

Price: Let's be honest, this sight isn't cheap. For the casual hunter, it might be a tough pill to swallow.

Not a Magic Bullet: Don't expect the red dot to automatically make you a crack shot. You still need to hone your shotgun skills, but it definitely helps with faster target acquisition.

Field Experience: The first time I used the ROMEO5, I felt like a whole new hunter. Tracking birds was effortless, and lining up the shot became second nature. I ended the day with a limit, and let me tell you, the feeling of confidence that sight gave me was priceless.

What Folks Are Saying: Online reviews rave about the ROMEO5's durability and clarity. Some hunters, like me, mention the weight as a point to consider. There are also discussions about different mounting options for shotguns specifically. Overall, the sentiment seems positive, with many hunters crediting the ROMEO5 for improving their bird hunting experience.

The Verdict: While it has a bit of a price tag and adds some weight, the Sig Sauer ROMEO5 has become a trusted part of my shotgun setup. Faster target acquisition, improved situational awareness, and a bomb-proof build quality make it a worthwhile investment for the serious bird hunter. Just remember, it's a tool, not a magic trick – you still gotta put in the practice!

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Trijicon RMR Type 2

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Let's talk turkey. Literally. I've been a bird hunting purist for years, but lately, I've been intrigued by the red dot revolution. Enter the Trijicon RMR Type 2. This little powerhouse promises faster target acquisition and improved accuracy, but is it worth ditching the tried-and-true bead sight for wingshooting?

Features I Love:

Heads Up, Eyes Open: The biggest perk? Increased situational awareness. With the RMR, I can keep both eyes open, spotting birds quicker and staying more aware of my surroundings. No more tunnel vision!

Lightning Fast: Those fleeting targets are no match for the red dot. It helps me acquire them instantly, especially on close flushes.

Built Like a Tank: Trijicon is known for bombproof optics, and the RMR Type 2 is no exception. It's rugged enough to handle the field and the occasional bump.

Downsides to Consider:

Price Tag: Let's be honest, these things aren't cheap. It's a significant investment, and for some hunters, the traditional sights might be perfectly adequate.

Battery Reliance: It's a battery-powered sight, which means one extra thing to keep track of. A dead battery at a crucial moment would be a nightmare. Always pack spares!

Big Sight Picture Change: This is a red dot, not a shotgun bead. It takes some getting used to, and finding the right balance between dot size and field of view can be tricky.

My Experience:

The learning curve was real. Initially, the red dot felt bulky on my shotgun. But after some practice rounds, it clicked. Those fast-flying birds became easier to track, and my follow-through improved. Taking a wing on the move became more instinctive, less like pointing and hoping.

Reviews are mixed. Some hunters swear by red dots for birds, raving about the improved speed and accuracy. Others find them unnecessary or even distracting. The common theme? Practice is key. If you're willing to put in the time to adjust your shooting style, the RMR Type 2 can be a game-changer.

The Trijicon RMR Type 2 isn't a magic bullet, but it's a powerful tool for the right shooter. If you're looking to up your bird hunting game and are willing to invest the time and money, it's definitely worth considering. Just remember, there's no substitute for practice and mastering the fundamentals of wingshooting, red dot or not.

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Best for Competitive Shooting: Trijicon SRO

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As a seasoned bird hunter, I'm always on the lookout for gear that gives me an edge. Enter the Trijicon SRO red dot sight. Let me tell you, this little powerhouse has transformed my shotgun game.

Top Billing Features:

Unmatched Field of View: Forget tunnel vision. The SRO boasts a wide, clear window that lets me track fast-moving birds with ease. No more scrambling to find the dot in the heat of the moment.

Crisp Dot, Quick Acquisition: The clean, 2.5 MOA red dot is like a laser pointer for my eye. Target acquisition is lightning fast, allowing me to take those split-second shots with confidence.

Built Like a Tank: Trijicon is known for its bombproof optics, and the SRO is no exception. It's rugged enough to handle the bumps and scrapes of the field without a flinch.

Advantages in the Air:

More Birds in the Bag: Since switching to the SRO, I've noticed a significant increase in my hit rate. Those fleeting opportunities are no longer a guessing game.

Reduced Eye Strain: Gone are the days of squinting down iron sights. The bright red dot is easy on the eyes, especially in low-light conditions.

Faster Follow-Up Shots: The quick target acquisition allows for faster follow-up shots on birds that might flush in pairs.

The Other Side of the Coin:

Battery Dependence: Unlike iron sights, the SRO relies on a battery. While the life is impressive, a dead battery at the wrong moment can ruin a hunt. Always carry a spare!

Bulk and Weight: Compared to iron sights, the SRO adds a bit of bulk and weight to your shotgun. It might take some getting used to for traditionalists.

Price Tag: Let's be honest, the SRO isn't cheap. But for serious bird hunters who want that extra edge, it's an investment that pays off.

Field Tested:

The first time I used the SRO on a pheasant hunt, I was amazed. Birds that would have flown away unscathed with iron sights were brought down cleanly. The wide field of view made tracking them in flight a breeze, and the red dot seemed to lock onto their heads like magic.

Hunters online seem pretty split on the SRO for shotguns. Some, like me, swear by it for its speed and accuracy. Others find the price tag a turnoff or prefer the simplicity of iron sights.

Ultimately, the decision is yours. But if you're a bird hunter looking to up your game, the Trijicon SRO is definitely worth a long, hard look. It's transformed my shotgun experience, and I wouldn't go back for the world.

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Conclusion

For enthusiasts of shotgun bird hunting, selecting the best red dot entails a strategic balance of clarity, versatility, and ruggedness. By equipping their shotgun with an optimal red dot sight, hunters can elevate their accuracy and responsiveness in the field.

Top 5 Best Red Dot Sights for Shotgun Bird Hunting in 2024

Aimpoint ACRO S-2

Best Overall: Bushnell RXS-250 Reflex

Best Value: Sig Sauer ROMEO5

Trijicon RMR Type 2

Best for Competitive Shooting: Trijicon SRO

Conclusion

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