The best optical and red dot sights for hunting

Back to the list Today the market is saturated with a large number of optical sights from different brands and manufacturers. As a result, every potential hunter is faced with the question when choosing: “Which optical sight is better?” Some follow the recommendations of those who have already purchased and used a particular model, while others are looking for a new, most advanced device from well-known brands and want to hear the opinion of experts in this field.

We present an overview of branded optical sights of foreign and domestic production.

Varieties

Let's look at the main types of sights.

Sight with Mil-Dot reticle

Allows you to shoot with the aiming point “removed” from the center. When introducing corrections using a tactical drum, the clicks of the mechanism correspond to the reticle marks.

The dial must be marked in milliradians, otherwise you will have to recalculate (1 Mrad = 3.38 MOA).

Optical sight with constant magnification

Pneumatics with the PCP mechanism have virtually no recoil with high shot accuracy. In this case, it is better to use optics with variable magnification from 4 to 12 or more. The budget analogue is a sight with constant magnification. The dimensions of the focal grid remain constant as the scale changes.

Night optical sight for pneumatics

The advantages of this design include the ability to operate day and night. This is convenient for training. Expensive modifications are equipped with a built-in laser distance meter.

To sum it up:

• The ability to change the scope during a driven hunt is fundamental;
• For beginners, who will be placed on numbers with a minimum distance, red dot sights are suitable, but experienced ones will take an optical sight-driver;
• The sight must have small dimensions and weight, since you still need to reach the assigned number;
• If it is more convenient to shoot from an open sight than from a collimator, but at the same time you have a driven optical sight, you need to take care of a quick-release mount;
• The use of a tandem collimator sight and magnifying attachment should be based on the hunter’s experience, the system should have the same optical axis, and the attachment should be able to be quickly installed;
• Tactical sights have their own specifics, which most likely will not be convenient for driven hunting.

Magnitude and lens size

Magnitude is the main parameter of an aerial sight. However, you should not choose the maximum magnification. For air rifles, optics with a constant value (4-8) are quite suitable.

You will have to pay extra for adjustable magnification; the price is noticeably higher, but the shooting efficiency increases slightly. Spring-piston mechanisms have double recoil (in the direction of flight of the charge and back). Inexpensive models of scopes with variable magnification may malfunction after 80-100 shots. Versions with constant magnification are equipped with fewer precision elements, are stronger and easier to operate.

The flatness of the trajectory of pneumatics is associated with the low starting speed and weight of the bullet, the permissible energy of no more than 7.5 J. Reinforced rifles with a shot speed of 260-270 m/s are characterized by an intense fall after 50 meters.

Accurate firing at a distance of more than 60 m is impossible due to significant differences in ballistic corrections and the difficulty of aiming. This is clearly shown in the graph below (caliber - 4.5 mm, charge weight - 0.67 g, speed - 280 m/s, aiming height - 70 mm from the barrel channel).

The light power of the sight depends on the size of the lens. Models with a diameter of 50 mm will have a clearer and brighter picture than their 20 mm counterparts. Dark optics cause eye fatigue, especially in low light. Despite all their advantages, large lenses have their disadvantages. Among them are large mass and high price.

Tips and tricks when choosing optical sights from Aliexpress

There are several recommendations that can help you choose the optimal optical sight.

1. When buying scopes on Aliexpress, you should not only pay attention to the quality of the product and the store’s rating, but also contact the seller so that he provides not a photo from the Internet, but a real photo that will allow you to evaluate the quality of the product.
2. It is imperative to read the technical specifications so that there are no problems with installing the scope on the rifle.
3. You need to buy a product that will have the necessary scaling. There is no point in overpaying for a larger zoom if you don’t plan to use it. Each rifle has its own firing range, upon reaching which the bullet begins to sharply change its trajectory, rapidly decreasing.
4. If you plan to hunt at night, then you should make sure that you have a backlight and a built-in night vision device so that you can see the target better.
5. The viewing angle should be familiar to the user.
6. The aiming reticle should be familiar so that you don’t have to waste time on relearning and zeroing.

Video - Some thoughts on choosing an optical sight

Important! It is worth buying sights only from reliable suppliers who guarantee the use of high-quality coated optics and provide a guarantee. They value their reputation, so they will definitely be able to provide goods of appropriate quality.

If you buy sights from the list above, you can rest assured of their quality. This is a great opportunity to save money and purchase a great product. There are several types of delivery, so everyone chooses the one that suits them. It is worth understanding that the scope is a fragile item, so it is recommended to check with the seller in advance exactly how he is going to pack it so that nothing is damaged during transportation.

Brackets for pneumatics

Modern optical sights are equipped with a universal mount. The configuration of the clamps is “dovetail”. Additionally, the kit may include a special bracket or side bar.

Fasteners can be monoblock or separate (two parts). The first design has a tube, which is rigidly connected to the general system using rings. The separate version makes it possible to more accurately adjust the alignment of the sight with the barrel. Careless use of the rifle leads to deformation of the tube.

Fewer edits will be required if the optics are as close to the barrel as possible. In this case, the use of a standard sight becomes impossible, since the front sight is located within the viewing range of the lens. The raised bracket allows you to operate “native” devices without any problems.

The elements under consideration are made of steel, duralumin or silumin. The latter material is very fragile and requires careful handling during maintenance and installation. To prevent the optics from slipping due to vibrations, an additional stopper is provided.

Rating with price

BSA Essential

The Chinese optical sight is ideal for pneumatics and has decent quality. Options:

• multiplicity setting range – 6-24;
• objective/exit eyepiece size (mm) t- 50/8.3-2.1;
• eye relief (mm) – 114;
• length (cm) – 40;
• weight (kg) – 0.67;
• sighting reticle – mil-dot.

This line includes modifications with interchangeable sizes, suitable for various firing conditions.

Burris Euro DR

Characteristics:

• multiplicity – 1-4;
• lens/tube/exit eyepiece size (mm) – 24/30/6;
• visual field at 100 m – 9.8-33.2;
• focus (mm) – 101;
• adjustment mechanism scale (MOA) – ½;
• length (cm) – 28.7;
• weight (kg) – 0.48.

All sights from this manufacturer have multi-layer coated lenses, a steel fixing screw, and their own light control system.

Bushnell Banner

Options:

• increase rate – 1-4;
• lens diameter (mm) – 32;
• working grid – Circle-X;
• tube size (mm) – 25.4;
• parallax – fixed;
• distance to the exit pupil (mm) – 8.3-26.1;
• length (cm) – 26.7;
• weight (kg) – 0.34;
• setting at 100 m – 1.4.

Elcan Specter

Characteristics:

• multiplicity – 1-4;
• adjustable parallax;
• output eyepiece at a distance (mm) – 70;
• BVP – ½ MOA;
• focusing (m) – from 20 or more;
• fasteners – Mills strip with Arms clamps;
• dimensions (mm) – 74/78/154;
• weight (kg) – 0.67.

The revolutionary sight provides a dual field of action, suitable for air and combat units.

Superb Hakko

Options:

• increase – 2.5-10;
• lens/central tube diameter (mm) – 42/30;
• twilight number – 10.2-20.5;
• mechanical correction range (MOA) – ¼;
• eyepiece exit (mm) – 6.2-21.1;
• length (cm) – 35.2;
• weight (kg) – 0.495;
• body – aluminum.

Hakko optics production technology is registered in most developed countries. It involves increasing the strength of the frame by reducing the cutting angle.

KonusPro M-30

Characteristics:

• multiplicity – 10-40;
• lens/tube size (mm) – 52/30;
• color – matte black;
• pupil distance at exit (mm) – 88;
• length (cm) – 46.3;
• weight (kg) – 0.907;
• edit limit (m) – 1.3;
• working grid type – MilDot.

The optics have several levels of brightness and backlight. The visual field of aim is 91 meters.

Nikon Prostaff

Options:

• correction mechanism – ¼ MOA;
• zoom – 3-9;
• lens/tube diameter (mm) – 50/25.4;
• eyepiece at exit (mm) – 5.6;
• visual field (m) – 3.8-11.3 per 100 m;
• weight (kg) – 0.495;
• length (cm) – 31.8;
• filling with argon - yes.

The peculiarity of this optical sight is that it provides reliable protection for the eyebrow due to the fixed location of the point, regardless of the recoil of the weapon.

Steiner

Characteristics of the Xtreme 15×24 modification:

• increase – 1-5;
• tube/lens diameter (mm) – 30/24;
• visual field at 91 m – 6.55-32.9;
• eyepiece exit (mm) – 4.8-11.5;
• length (cm) – 29.2;
• weight (kg) – 0.578;
• focusing distance (m) – 100.

German quality, the introduction of the latest technologies and versatility are the main features of Steiner optics, regardless of configuration and configuration.

Swarovski Z6I

Technical specifications:

• color – matte black;
• multiplicity (mm) – 2.5-15;
• eyepiece exit (mm) – 3.8-9.5;
• distance to the eyes from the working window (mm) – 95;
• axial tube diameter (mm) – 30;
• length (cm) – 36.4;
• weight (kg) – 0.645.

This scope is aimed at sports shooting and hunting in low light conditions. The kit includes a turret with an adjustment scale.

VOMZ 12x50

Characteristics of the domestic pneumatic sight:

• increase – up to 12;
• diameter of lens, objective, exit pupil (mm) – 50/58/4.16;
• light transmission (%) – more than 80;
• length (cm) – 35.5;
• weight (kg) – 0.59;
• focusing – from 10 m.

The device is equipped with reconfiguration of the lens for distance, eliminating the parallax effect. The tube is made of aircraft grade aluminum and has a multi-layer anti-reflective coating on the lenses. The main purpose is shooting at targets and stationary targets over long distances.

Reticles

The diagram below shows the percentage of reticles used by the TOP-50 participants. Despite the fact that the grid is an individual choice, there are many options in it.

Every shooter who has used Bushnell brands has chosen the G2DMR reticle, which is also compared to the GAP and G2. This is not surprising, since they were designed by George Gardner specifically for use in such competitions.

George is the president of the sniper rifle company GAP, as well as a competitive competitor. By the way, he finished the tournament once again in the top 25. This grid with divisions of one thousandth of an inch is a Christmas tree shape, which is most convenient for aiming and at the same time quite laconic.

The most popular scopes from Schmidt and Bender were the H2CMR, and there were also a few shooters who used the P4L Fine and MSR. The P4L Fine reticle has an improved design with clear lines that do not obscure the target, as well as a concise design that leaves plenty of space to observe the target.

MSRs were developed for long-range competition, military use and other special forces. Interestingly enough, none of them used long-range reticles at all. Only one shooter has used one on a Schmidt and Bender, and that was the classic Horus H59.

One additional thing to know is that MSR grids are licensed for use by Schmidt and Bender, Kahles and Steiner. If you combine them all, they will be occupied by 6 shooters from the TOP 50 who use this grid, which is the 3rd most popular indicator in the group.

Among Vortex meshes, the most popular is EBR-2, the marking shape of which is a classic herringbone. However, there were a few shooters who also used the EBR-1 and EBR-3 with success.

The graph below provides information about the reticles that were used by the shooters included in the TOP 10:

If you just look at the TOP 10 leaders, the picture will not change. The G2DMR (GAP) reticle remains the most popular, with 4 out of 10 shooters choosing it. MSR reticles were used by 20% of shooters who finished in the TOP 20. Despite the fact that the EBR-3 was among the favorites of the TOP 50, when it came to the TOP 20, they were slightly behind the EBR-1. Also, while S&B optics with H2CMR were represented in twice as many as P4L Fine in the Top 50, they were represented in the same proportion in the Top 20 shooters.

Briefly about other manufacturers

Among the popular brands of optics, there are several more popular manufacturers:

1. Zeiss. In the line of this brand, the Diavari versions are best suited for pneumatics. They are distinguished by their light weight, compact size, good image quality, and resistance to strong recoil.
2. Yukon. Craft models are suitable for weapons of various calibers, including piston "air" guns. The device is adjustable in magnification, the body is protected from deformation by a nitrogen filler, the aiming reticle is illuminated when aimed at the target.
3. Vortex Viper HS. The new series is focused on a wide range of tasks, has a matte lens coating, a reinforced design, and is protected from moisture. Reel type – closed, switching – MOA.
4. POSP. The sights are suitable for air rifles, hunting rifles, and observation of surrounding flora and fauna. At the customer's request, the equipment is equipped with a sighting reticle of your choice.
5. Redfield. This optic features an original lens system that guarantees maximum image clarity. The mechanism is protected from damage by vacuum deposition and dielectric coating. Good light transmission ensures clear visibility at any time of the day.
6. Dedal DH. Sights from the Russian manufacturer are not inferior in their parameters to their foreign counterparts. They surpass them in such characteristics as image curvature, distance, exit pupil diameter, structural strength, and ease of use. The price starts from 79 thousand rubles.
7. Meopta. A special feature is the increased magnification range, which makes it possible to use optics not only on air rifles, but also on hunting or sporting rifles. The brightness can be adjusted depending on the lighting of the area.
8. Leupold. The VX-Fredoom modification is a representative of a new generation of optical sights for pneumatics from an American manufacturer. The device has good parameters for shooting in low visibility. It is protected from moisture, the coating of the case guarantees a reliable grip with or without gloves.
9. March. The main idea of ​​the company is to develop optical sights of the highest category, suitable for various types of shooting. The devices are reliable and have excellent build quality.
10. Leica. The mechanisms are developed and manufactured in Germany, suitable for hunting and entertainment. A special feature is a special lens coating that ensures image clarity, repels dirt and moisture, and allows firing at short, medium, and long distances.

The best red dot sights

The best red dot sights reduce the task of aiming to aligning the luminous mark with the target. Suitable for beginners - they make it easier to step into the fascinating world of weapons and for professionals - they increase combat effectiveness.

Based on their design, they are divided into open and closed.

Open collimators consist of a single lens. Suitable for smoothbore shotguns, withstands the recoil of a 12 gauge magnum.

1. Advantages : simplicity of design, strength and compactness, wide field of view.
2. Disadvantages : no protection against precipitation, moisture and dust.

Closed collimators are similar to classical optics - an aluminum tube with glasses. Universal use, taking into account restrictions on muzzle energy - no more than 3800 J.

• Advantages: sealed housing.
• Disadvantages: narrowing of the viewing angle, increased dimensions and weight, does not withstand the recoil of powerful rifles and combat pneumatics.

Collimators are divided according to parameters:

• Projection type - dot, grid or hologram;
• Mounting type: weaver, dovetail or docter;
• Internal functionality - changing the type of mark, automatically or manually changing the brightness;
• Type of energy consumption - active, with a battery and LED, passive - with radioactive paint.

5Pilad 1×30 Weaver

Cost 10 Reliability 9 Functionality 8

The overall score is calculated as the average value of the sum of the main parameters.

9.0Rating

pros

• Thin frame does not impair field of view
• Automatic brightness adjustment
• Small size and weight

Minuses

• Insufficient impact resistance
• Setting up in the field is difficult
• Less resistant to precipitation and dust

The rating of collimator sights opens with an open-type device produced by VOMZ - suitable for hunting and shooting ranges, preferably installed on smooth-bore carbines, holds the recoil of a cartridge up to 12 gauge. The lightweight body is mounted on a weaver-type rail and can be mounted at an angle as an additional sight. The manufacturer recommends careful handling of the device.

The protective casing is made of aluminum, the frame is thin, and does not interfere with the perception of the situation. In a window measuring 19x25, the image displays a red aiming mark ; buttons on the body allow you to select the type (dot, “T”, “T” with a dot), as well as adjust the strength of the glow. There is also an automatic mode for selecting brightness based on the state of the surrounding atmosphere.

The collimator is powered by a CR3020 battery, continuous operation - up to 70 hours, automatic shutdown - after 4 hours. The included scale and screwdriver are used for adjustment.

4Holosun Paralow HS403B

Cost 9 Reliability 10 Functionality 7

The overall score is calculated as the average value of the sum of the main parameters.

8.7 Evaluation

pros

• Rugged, reliable design
• A bright label for any conditions
• Long battery life

Minuses

• The view is limited by the handset
• You need a tool to set it up
• Protective covers may get lost

The closed-type sight looks like optics, the short tube will not break from the recoil of a Saiga or Berkut, is protected from moisture according to IP67, sealed and filled with nitrogen. The aluminum body will add only 124 g to the weapon and will not upset the balance, it is mounted on a weaver, and the kit includes stands of different heights (for a shotgun and a carbine).

The window diameter is small - 22 mm, the front lens is installed at an angle so as not to glare . In the stowed position, the windows are closed with rubber covers. There is only one target marker - a red dot, but the brightness varies within a wide range - 12 steps. The first two levels are needed for a night vision device, on the last - the mark is visible against the background of bright snow.

Power is provided by a CR3020 lithium battery, the element is securely hidden under the support and cover, the manufacturer promises tens of thousands of hours of glow.

The correction input drums are hidden under screw caps; adjustment requires a thin screwdriver.

3Hakko Flipup II

Cost 8 Reliability 7 Functionality 8

The overall score is calculated as the average value of the sum of the main parameters.

7.7 Evaluation

pros

• Lightweight folding sight
• Easy corrections
• Wide range of label brightness

Minuses

• Doesn't handle 12 gauge recoil
• Rare lithium element
• No manual brightness adjustment

A distinctive feature of this open sight is its exceptional lightness and compactness, with dimensions of only 64x40x30 mm and weight of 75 g. Switching to the stowed position is carried out in two movements - fold the lens into the compartment and cover it with a lid; it is not necessary to remove the sight from the weapon. The downside of this convenience is the limitation on recoil, so with the 308 Veprem everything is fine, but the rollback of the Benelli M2 bolt frame knocks over the glass.

The screws for entering corrections are open, with hexagonal slots, it is convenient to adjust on the stand and test site, but the battery is securely hidden under a sealed screw cap, which provides some moisture protection. A rare CR1/3N element is used for power supply, providing up to 300 hours of glow.

The average window size is 21 mm, the target mark is a red dot, it turns on when the lens is raised, and turns off when lowered. The brightness is adjusted automatically, in total 30 steps, there is no manual adjustment.

2DOCTER SIGHT II+ 3.5

Cost 9 Reliability 9 Functionality 7

The overall score is calculated as the average value of the sum of the main parameters.

8.3 Evaluation

pros

• Universal collimator for hunting
• Small and light
• You don’t have to remove it from the barrel on the road

Minuses

• Few brightness levels
• No moisture protection
• No manual adjustments

A tiny collimator with a width of 1 inch can be called a “thumbelina”, its dimensions are only 46 × 25.4 × 23.7 mm, and its weight is 25 g. It is mainly used for hunting rifles mounted on a docter rail. The sight is rightfully included in the rating of red dot sights for 12 gauge - thanks to its small size, it can withstand any recoil.

The base of the sight is made of steel, the casing is made of aluminum. Please note that there is no special protection against moisture ; you should not drop it into a puddle. When transporting the gun, you don’t have to remove the body, just cover the sight with the included cover.

The screen measures 21 mm and does not fold. The aiming mark - a small red dot - turns on automatically if the cover is removed and the photodetector is opened, the adjustment is only 3 steps, but automatic. The LED is powered by a standard CR3020 and shines continuously for up to 135 hours.

Entering corrections is simple, using hexagonal screws.