
In recent years, red dot sights have become a popular gun accessory thanks to their many benefits and increasing affordability. In this article, we’ll go over what a red dot sight is and what exactly those benefits are. Let’s get started!
What is a red dot sight?
A red dot sight is a gun optical sight that projects a small red dot onto a glass lens, which is then superimposed onto the target (usually at 1x magnification).
A red dot sight can replace iron sights or be used in conjunction with them via a co-witness mount. Either way, a red dot sight provides a precise point at which to aim when shooting a gun.
But are they worth the investment? Let’s take a look at the benefits they have to offer to find out:
1. Ease of use
Red dot sights make it incredibly easy to aim. All you have to do is superimpose the red dot onto the target.
In contrast, iron sights require you to line up two points on your gun with the target in the background. This requires you to shift your focus back and forth.
With a red dot sight, you can aim in less time and focus more on your shot, which is especially helpful for older shooters who may not have the best eyesight or those who are cross-eyed dominant.
2. Improved accuracy
Red dot sights also help you shoot with more accuracy. Because you only need to focus on one focal plain (as opposed to three with iron sights), there’s less chance for human error, and you’ll hit a higher percentage of your targets.
According to a 2019 white paper entitled “Miniaturized Red Dot Systems for Duty Handgun Use,” iron-sighted shooters made critical hits 28% of the time, while red dot shooters made 70% of their critical hits.
With a red dot sight, you’ll have a wider field of vision, which allows for a better view of the target so you can shoot further and with more accuracy overall.
3. Faster target acquisition
When you’re in a high-stress shooting situation (e.g., a home invasion), time is of the essence. Red dot sights help you acquire your target quickly so you can shoot before it’s too late.
Your eyes are instantly drawn to your aiming point, so you can shoot quickly and with confidence. Plus, red dots can be seen quickly in nearly any lighting condition. So if it’s dark in your home, you’ll still be able to aim.
Because red dot sights make it easier to acquire and track your target, they make for a much more efficient aiming system than iron sights.
4. Greater field of view
Another benefit of red dot sights is that, unlike iron sights, they allow you to shoot with both eyes open. That way, you can maintain more situational awareness through your peripheral vision and aim at threats without losing sight of what’s around you.
In short, red dot sights provide a greater field of view, which can improve your accuracy and overall safety.
5. Improved vision in dark settings
Lastly, red dot sights are superior in low-light conditions. That’s because the reticle (i.e., the red dot) is light itself. So no matter how dark it gets, you’ll still be able to see it.
The bottom line
Ultimately, a red dot sight can make a great addition to your pistol or rifle. They are especially helpful in close- to medium-range encounters (up to about 300 yards).
So if you want to invest in your self-defense and overall gun accuracy, a red dot sight is the way to go. It will help ensure you miss fewer targets and give you an edge over the competition.