The .450 Bushmaster is a powerful rifle cartridge, originally designed to improve stopping power at short to medium ranges.
It’s a popular choice among hunters who seek large game in dense brush where longer range shots are not typically necessary.
Given its robust recoil and specific use case, choosing the right red dot sight for a .450 Bushmaster requires consideration of durability, ease of use, and optical clarity.
Below, I share my detailed reviews of the best red dot sights suitable for the .450 Bushmaster, based on my extensive shooting experience, technical examination, and feedback from fellow shooters.
My choices:
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 Sight for .450 Bushmaster of 2025
1. Trijicon RMR Type 2
Specifications:
Battery Life: Up to 4 years at mid-setting Waterproof: Up to 20 meters Best Features:
Rugged Design: Built to withstand heavy recoil and impact. Adjustable Brightness: Manual brightness controls with eight settings. Pros:
Extremely durable, can handle the powerful recoil of .450 Bushmaster. Compact and lightweight, does not add significant weight to the firearm. Clear optics with a bright dot for quick target acquisition. Cons:
Premium price point may not be suitable for all budgets. Battery compartment is not as easily accessible as some other models. Personal Experience:
My experience using the Trijicon RMR Type 2 on a .450 Bushmaster has been exceptionally positive. It holds zero perfectly even after numerous rounds and the optical clarity never fails to impress. The robustness of this sight makes it my go-to recommendation for any high-caliber rifle.
Online Customer Comments:
Most users agree that the Trijicon RMR Type 2 is nearly indestructible. While the high cost is often noted, many feel that the investment is justified by the sight’s performance and longevity.
2. Aimpoint PRO Patrol Rifle Optic
Specifications:
Battery Life: Up to 30,000 hours Waterproof: Submersible to 150 feet Best Features:
Always-Ready: Always on for constant readiness. Rotary Knob: User-friendly brightness adjustment. Pros:
Exceptional battery life; you can virtually forget about changing batteries for years. Very rugged, built to withstand harsh environments and heavy recoil. Provides fast target acquisition with a clear and precise dot. Cons:
Relatively heavy, which might affect the handling of lighter firearms. Higher price point, similar to the Trijicon RMR. Personal Experience:
Using the Aimpoint PRO on my .450 Bushmaster has significantly enhanced my hunting expeditions. Its reliability in all weather conditions and during rough use is unmatched. It’s slightly heavier, but the trade-off for its ruggedness and battery life is well worth it.
Online Customer Speakers:
The Aimpoint PRO is consistently praised for its durability and reliability. Some users mention its weight as a downside, but this is often overlooked in favor of its overall performance.
3. Vortex Optics Strikefire II
Specifications:
Battery Life: Up to 6,000 hours Best Features:
Red/Green Dot Option: Allows choice between dot colors based on preference and background. Rear-facing Controls: Simple and intuitive adjustment of power and dot brightness. Pros:
Offers versatility with red or green dot to suit various lighting conditions. Sturdy build quality that handles recoil well. More affordable compared to other high-end models. Cons:
Larger and bulkier than some other options. Battery life is good but not as great as some competitors. Personal Experience:
The Vortex Optics Strikefire II has been a reliable companion on many hunts. The ability to switch between red and green dots is particularly helpful in varied environments. It’s a bit larger, but the performance and price make it a great option for the .450 Bushmaster.
Online Customer Comments:
Most feedback on the Strikefire II is positive, especially about its value for money. Some users find it a bit hefty, but its ease of use and versatility often compensate for the extra size.
4. EOTech XPS2
Specifications:
Dot Size: 1 MOA dot with a 65 MOA circle reticle Battery Life: Up to 600 hours Waterproof: Submersible to 10 feet Best Features:
Holographic Sight: Provides a unique reticle pattern designed for rapid target engagement. Compact Design: Despite its capabilities, it’s relatively compact. Pros:
Holographic display is excellent for quick target acquisition and tracking. The reticle design is beneficial for both close and medium-range shooting. Constructed to withstand significant recoil and impact. Cons:
Shorter battery life compared to other red dot sights. Higher on the price spectrum. Personal Experience:
The EOTech XPS2 has proven to be an outstanding optic for my .450 Bushmaster, especially in close to medium-range engagements. The holographic sight makes targeting instinctive and quick. The only drawback is the battery life, which requires more frequent attention.
Online Customer Comments:
Users love the quick target acquisition and unique reticle of the EOTech XPS2. The main concerns are related to its battery life and cost, but many find these are outweighed by the sight’s performance and reliability.
5. Holosun HS510C
Specifications:
Dot Size: 2 MOA dot with a 65 MOA ring Battery Life: Up to 50,000 hours with solar fail-safe Best Features:
Solar Power with Battery Backup: Ensures continuous operation. Multiple Reticle System: Choice between dot only, ring only, or dot and ring combination. Pros:
Excellent battery life with innovative solar power feature. Versatile reticle options cater to different shooting needs and preferences. Relatively lightweight and offers good value for its features. Cons:
Some users may prefer a more traditional single dot reticle. The frame could be more robust. Personal Experience:
The Holosun HS510C has been a versatile and efficient sight on my .450 Bushmaster. The solar panel feature is particularly impressive, ensuring that the sight is always operational. It’s lightweight yet does not compromise on functionality.
Online Customer Comments:
The HS510C receives high marks for its solar backup feature and reticle versatility. Some shooters express concerns over its durability compared to more rugged models, but overall, it is favored for its innovative features and reliable performance.
How to Choose The Best Red Dot Sight for .450 Bushmaster?
While a red dot sight can be an option for the .450 Bushmaster, it's important to consider that this caliber is effective at ranges where magnification is usually preferred. That said, if you plan on using your .450 Bushmaster for close-range hunting in thick brush or quick target acquisition, a red dot sight can be a good choice. Here's what to consider when choosing one:
Durability: The .450 Bushmaster packs a punch, so you'll need a red dot that can handle the recoil. Look for sights with a reputation for ruggedness and a warranty to back it up. Brands like Aimpoint, Trijicon, and Holosun are known for their durability.
Dot Size: A smaller dot (2 MOA or less) offers more precision for longer shots within the effective range of a red dot sight for the .450 Bushmaster (typically under 150 yards). However, a larger dot (3 MOA or more) can be quicker to pick up on close targets.
Mount Height: Lower 1/3 co-witness mounts are popular for AR-style rifles chambered in .450 Bushmaster. This allows you to use backup iron sights if the red dot fails.
Battery Life: Since the .450 Bushmaster is likely for hunting, a red dot with long battery life is essential. Aim for a sight that offers several hundred hours of illumination on a single battery.
FAQs
Q. Why use a red dot sight on a .450 Bushmaster?
A red dot sight is popular for its quick target acquisition, ease of use, and improved accuracy at short to medium ranges. This makes it ideal for the .450 Bushmaster, which is often used in dense brush and for fast-moving game.
Q. What features should I look for in a red dot sight for a .450 Bushmaster?
Key features to consider include:
Durability: The sight should be able to withstand the heavy recoil of the .450 Bushmaster. Battery life: Long battery life is essential for extended hunting trips. Reticle: A clear, bright reticle that is easy to see in various lighting conditions. Mounting options: Compatibility with your rifle’s mounting system. Waterproof and fog-proof: Ensures reliable performance in various weather conditions. Q. Can a red dot sight handle the recoil of a .450 Bushmaster?
Yes, but it is important to choose a high-quality red dot sight specifically designed to handle heavy recoil. Cheap or poorly constructed sights may not hold zero or could be damaged by the powerful recoil.
Q. What are some recommended red dot sights for a .450 Bushmaster?
Popular and reliable options include:
Aimpoint PRO: Known for its durability and long battery life. Trijicon MRO: Offers a large viewing area and is built to withstand harsh conditions. EOTech XPS2: Holographic sight with a wide field of view and excellent durability. Q. How do I mount a red dot sight on a .450 Bushmaster?
Mounting typically involves using a compatible rail system, such as a Picatinny or Weaver rail. Ensure the sight is securely attached and properly aligned. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best results.
Q. What is the effective range of a red dot sight on a .450 Bushmaster?
Red dot sights are most effective at short to medium ranges, generally up to 100-200 yards. The .450 Bushmaster itself is typically effective up to around 200-250 yards.
Q. Can I use a magnifier with a red dot sight on a .450 Bushmaster?
Yes, you can pair a red dot sight with a magnifier to extend your effective range. Many red dot sights have compatible magnifiers that can be easily attached or detached as needed.
Q. How do I zero a red dot sight on a .450 Bushmaster?
To zero a red dot sight:
Secure your rifle on a stable rest. Set up a target at your desired zeroing distance, typically 50 or 100 yards. Adjust the sight's windage and elevation settings according to your shot placement until the point of impact matches the point of aim. Q. Are there any special considerations for hunting with a red dot sight on a .450 Bushmaster?
Practice: Spend time at the range to become familiar with the sight and your rifle's performance. Light conditions: Ensure your red dot sight has adjustable brightness to accommodate changing light conditions in the field. Follow-up shots: The quick target acquisition of a red dot sight can be particularly advantageous for follow-up shots in hunting scenarios. Conclusion
Choosing the best red dot sight for your .450 Bushmaster depends on your specific needs, whether it’s for hunting, target shooting, or tactical applications.
From rugged, high-end sights like the Trijicon RMR and Aimpoint PRO to more budget-friendly but highly capable options like the Vortex Strikefire II and Holosun HS510C, each of these models offers unique benefits.
My personal preference tends to lean towards optics that combine durability with innovative features like the Aimpoint PRO for its unmatched battery life and the EOTech XPS2 for its superior target acquisition capabilities.
However, for those looking for great value, the Holosun HS510C provides an excellent balance between performance, versatility, and cost.
Remember, investing in a good quality red dot sight will not only enhance your shooting accuracy but also your overall experience with the powerful .450 Bushmaster.