Are you looking for the best reflex sight for deer hunting? Look no further. Reflex sights provide numerous possibilities for your hunting rifle. Reflex sights are pretty light and compact compared with traditional scopes.
They allow shooting with both eyes open due to their unlimited eye relief, track secondary targets to give you situational awareness and acquire targets speedily. One area where reflex sights excel is deer hunting and this article shed light on the best reflex sight for deer hunting.
Deer hunting is a fun and thrilling activity. Whether you hunt deer for recreation or as a source of livelihood, having the right gear is important. A reflex sight is a handy item to add to your hunting toolkit. It will boost your shooting accuracy and aid in quick target acquisition at close and mid-ranges.
8 Best Reflex Sights for Shotgun Deer Hunting
If you are looking for a reflex sight to add to your deer hunting firearm, you have come to the right place. In this post, we have compiled a list of the best reflex sights for deer hunting to help ensure that you get the best of the best. Let’s take a look.
1) Sightmark Mini Shot M-Spec FMS Reflex Sight
Unbeatable versatility makes the Sightmark Mini Shot M-Spec FMS Reflex Sight the best reflex sight for deer hunting. It can be mounted on a shotgun, pistol, or rifle. The reflex sight offers up to 30,000 hours of battery life on the lowest setting. This makes it ideal for lengthy hunting sessions.
This reflex sight has an ambidextrous digital switch for easy on and off. It features a 12-hour auto-shutoff for preserving the battery life when you are not using it.
Besides, it features 10 daytime brightness settings for greater accuracy in different environments. From the brightest of days to dusk and dawn lighting, this reflex sight will get the job done.
Another thing that makes the scope stand out is the quality make. It is compact but tough as a nail. It features a rugged aluminum housing with a steel protective shield. It is also 100% waterproof to provide dependable performance in any weather condition.
Above all, this device has a low-profile design to help you use the iron sights on firearms with sight cutouts. Surely, Sightmark Mini Shot M-Spec Reflex Sight is the best reflex sight for deer hunting.
Features
- 1x magnification
- Ambidextrous digital switch
- Steel protective shield
- Easy windage and elevation click adjustments
- 12-hour auto shut off
- Scratch-resistant lenses
- Durable aluminum housing
- 100% waterproof
- 3 MOA red dot reticle
Pros
- Compact and ultralight
- Fair price
- Parallax-free lens design
- Extremely low power profile
Cons
- Only 1 red dot sight option
2) AT3 Tactical ARO Micro Red Dot Reflex Sight
If you are a beginner looking for the best reflex sight for deer hunting, look no further. The AT3 Tactical ARO Micro Red Dot Reflex Sight has user-friendly features that make it easy to operate. It is also reasonably affordable making it a great entry-level reflex sight.
It features a sharp 3 MOA red dot for enhanced accuracy. It also has a multi-coated lens which optimizes the transmission of light to keep your view clear and bright. Furthermore, it has 6 red dot brightness settings which provide optimal visibility in any lighting environment.
This red dot reflex sight is well-built to offer unprecedented durability. It is shockproof to take the beating from impact and recoil from high-recoiling firearms. Additionally, it has waterproof circuitry which ensures that you stay on target even in harsh weather conditions.
This product also brings to the table unlimited eye relief, operationally parallax-free design and a high-capacity battery that lasts up to 50,000 hours with typical use. As the best reflex sight for deer hunting, this is a highly adaptable reflex sight that can be mounted on a pistol, shotgun, or rifle.
Features
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Rugged aluminum housing
- Shockproof and impact-resistant
- Removable low mount for Picatinny or Weaver rails
- Multi-coated lenses
- 6 red dot brightness settings
Pros
- Crisp 3 MOA red dot
- Operationally parallax free
- Unlimited eye relief
- Compact design and lightweight
Cons
- Not ideal for rugged usage
3) Aimpoint Micro S-1 6 MOA Red Dot Reflex Sight
Deer hunting gets better with the Aimpoint Micro S-1 6 MOA Red Dot Reflex Sight. It has a 6 MOA dot size which is easy to track and 12 brightness settings for use in extremely low light to bright sky conditions. Aimpoint Micro S-1 Red Dot Reflex Sight is arguably the best reflex sight for deer hunting for those who use a shotgun in their hunting escapades.
This reflex sight is built ready for hunting. It has fully enclosed housing for added protection. It is also well built to stand up to shock, vibration, and heavy recoil. Further, it is fully waterproof for use in harsh environments and submersible to 15ft as well.
Another good thing about this reflex sight is its versatility. It has interchangeable mount plates to fit on most shotguns with 6mm to 12mm rib sizes. Better yet, it has a compact and lightweight design which enhances portability. This optic also has a quality battery that provides over 5 years of continuous use.
Features
- High-strength aluminum housing
- Interchangeable base plates
- 6 MOA dot size
- 12 brightness settings
- Shockproof and waterproof
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- High-capacity battery with over 5 years of continuous use
- Unlimited eye relief
- Versatile optic for all shotgun applications
Cons
- High price
4) Athlon Optics Midas LE Gen2 Red Dot Sight
The Athlon Optics Midas LE Gen2 Red Dot Sight Reflex provides great visibility under different lighting environments. Unbeatable versatility and unmatched speed in close-quarters scenarios make it stand out as the best reflex sight for deer hunting. It has an interchangeable reticle with 6 brightness settings and fully multi-coated optics which provide brighter images even in low light settings.
This optic is built to last. It has a one-piece chassis design which enhances its strength. It is made from aircraft-grade aluminum which provides exceptional strength as well as superior mechanical integrity. Even better, the whole unit is waterproof, shockproof and fog-resistant to stand up to anything nature throws at.
The Midas LE also features a 50,000-hour battery at a medium illumination setting. With such long battery life, you will be able to hunt for lengthy sessions and not worry about the battery getting depleted. The optic also provides unlimited eye relief and it is light and compact for easy portability.
Features
- 1x fixed magnification
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- 6 brightness settings
- Interchangeable reticle
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Robust aircraft-grade aluminum housing
Pros
- Compact and ultralight
- Budget-conscious
- A quality optic
- Unlimited eye relief
Cons
- Not ideal for rugged use
5) Sig Sauer Romeo 3XL 1x35mm Red Dot Sight
The Sig Sauer Romeo 3XL 1x35mm Red Dot Sight is a highly efficient handgun optic. With this red dot sight, you are guaranteed a seamless adventure in the field. This is a highly versatile optic designed to enhance your precision and improve your reaction time for virtually any application.
It features a fixed 1x magnification and a 35mm objective lens which provides a large viewing angle. It comes with 3 MOA and 6 MOA dots with several intensity settings for quick target acquisition in a wide range of lighting conditions. It also features a Motion Activated Illumination System which helps preserve the battery.
This red dot sight comes with a low-profile M1913 Picatinny mount. It also has an absolute co-witness riser mount available as an accessory. In terms of construction, it is crafted from Aircraft-grade aluminum to ensure a lifetime of reliable use.
It is also IPX7 waterproof and fogproof for use in any weather condition. Extraordinary performance, durable construction and other incredible characteristics make Romeo 3XL red dot sight the best reflex sight for deer hunting.
Features
- 1x fixed magnification
- Low-profile M1913 Picatinny mount
- IPX7 waterproof and fogproof
- Multiple intensity settings
- Motion Activated Illumination System
- 3 MOA and 6 MOA dot
Pros
- Excellent visibility
- Long battery life
- Unobstructed field of view
- Easy to install
Cons
- Expensive
6) Burris Fastfire III Reflex Red Dot Sight
The Burris Fastfire 3, 3 MOA red dot sight is an ultra-versatile reflex sight ideal for deer hunting. It has a simple installation and you can mount it on a rifle, handgun, or shotgun.
Besides, you can use it as your primary hunting sight or mount it on top of a longer-range scope to serve as a backup sight and/or as a close-range sighting tool.
This optic features 1x fixed magnification that allows for both-eyes open shooting. This enhances awareness and aids in quick target acquisition.
Furthermore, it is operationally parallax-free for better accuracy. It also features 3 manual brightness settings.
This red dot sight is built to take the beating when outdoors. It has a shockproof design to withstand years of punishing recoil. It is also waterproof to offer reliable performance in any environment.
Above all, it boasts high-grade optical glass and a multi-coated lens which provide superb low-light performance. For all hunting purposes, Burris Fastfire is the reflex sight to go for. You will not regret investing in this red dot sight.
Features
- 1x fixed magnification
- Waterproof and shockproof
- High-grade optical glass
- Automatic brightness sensors
- Windage and elevation adjustments
- Index-matched High-Lume multi-coating
Pros
- Backed by Burris forever warranty
- Parallax free
- Bright red dot
- Compact and lightweight
Cons
- Only 3 brightness settings
7) Trijicon RMR Type 2 3.25 MOA Adjustable Red Dot Sight
Another best reflex sight for deer hunting on our list is the Trijicon RMR Type 2 3.25 MOA Adjustable Red Dot Sight. Known for aiming accuracy and dependability, this red dot sight is dedicated to delivering a seamless hunting experience.
It features a 3.25 MOA dot and eight adjustable brightness settings including 1 for super bright light and 2 which are night-vision compatible.
This optic features a dependable electronic design that ensures reliable performance and survivability in harsh environments.
It has a unique, patented housing shape that diverts any force away from the lens for greater durability. It is also designed to be waterproof up to 20m for all-weather performance and added durability.
Furthermore, this optic is designed to automatically adjust the aiming dot to ambient conditions. It also features a multi-coated lens which creates a wide-bad light transmission for bright and true color images.
Above all, you can mount this optic on multiple platforms including rifles, shotguns, and carbines, or use it as a secondary sight with a magnified optic.
Features
- Outstanding durability
- Waterproof and shockproof
- Adjustable LED
- Easily adjustable windage and elevation
- Ruggedized battery contacts and electronics
- Fixed 1x magnification
- 25 MOA red dot
Pros
- Multi-platform friendly
- Rugged and reliable
- Long battery life
Cons
- No drawbacks
8) Vortex Venom 1×26.5mm Red Dot Sight
If you are looking for a reflex sight for deer hunting that offers great value for money, this is it. It offers a wide selection of quality and nice features at a remarkably affordable cost.
First, it features fully multi-coated lenses which increase light transmission for bright and crisp image views. It has a fixed 1x magnification that allows for both eyes open shooting.
Additionally, it boasts a premium wide-field lens that offers exceptional edge-to-edge resolution and unlimited eye relief that aids in rapid target acquisition.
Like any other Vortex Optic, the red dot sight is built to offer unmatched durability. It has a single-piece chassis which increases its durability.
It is also shockproof to stand up to anything you subject it to and waterproof to provide a lifetime of performance in any weather condition. Other noteworthy features included are 10 brightness settings, a hard-anodized finish and a lightweight design.
Features
- Armortek lens finish
- Waterproof construction
- Fixed 1x magnification
- Shockproof single-piece aluminum alloy chassis
- Premium wide-field lens
- Fully multi-coated optics
Pros
- Parallax free
- Unlimited eye relief
- Multi-platform friendly
- Adjustable brightness
- Clear pictures
Cons
- None
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Criteria for Choosing the Best Reflex Sight for Deer Hunting
Brightness Levels
Reflex sights have varying brightness settings. Typically, the high-end models have more brightness levels and some of the levels are night compatible.
The good thing about having many brightness levels is that it gives you the flexibility to customize the red dot to suit the hunting environment and the situation at hand.
Reticle Size
The reticle is an important part of a reflex sight. It plays an important role in your aiming ability. Most reflex sights have a reticle size that varies from 2 MOA to 6 MOA.
For deer hunting, the ideal reticle size will largely depend on your preference. But it is best to get a model with a small reticle size. A large reticle can block the target and interfere with your accuracy.
Durability
The housing quality of the reflex sight is the other important factor you should consider. A model that is built well using high-quality materials will last long.
Go for a reflex sight that is shockproof so it will stand up to anything you subject it to. To add on durability, ensure that you pick a model that is resistant to recoil, waterproof and fog proof as well.
Battery
Reflex sights are powered by batteries. You will want to invest in a model that has a desirable battery life so it will serve you for a long time.
Most of the reflex sights we have listed above can serve you for months and years depending on your usage. Also, ensure that the reflex sight is powered by batteries that are readily available in the stores.
Weight
The weight ratio is another important factor you should consider. Avoid adding a heavy optic to your rifle as it will change its ease of portability.
A heavy optic can also interfere with the accuracy of your firearm. Luckily, most reflex sights are compact, lightweight and easy to carry around.
Versatility
If you have a wide selection of weapons, it is wise to look for a reflex sight that is multi-platform friendly.
This way, you don’t have to shop for an optic for each firearm. Look for a model that works well on rifles, shotguns, crossbows and handguns for added versatility.
Price
You should also consider the cost of the reflex sight and see if it aligns with your budget needs. The market offers a wide selection of reflex sights at different costs to meet the budget needs of every user out there. Figure out the important features you require, then look for a model that matches both your budget and needs.
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How Reflex Sights Work
Reflex sights offer an inexpensive alternative to optics and before you get one it’s good to know how the optic functions. Reflex sights functionality is surprisingly very simple.
A reflex sight uses an energy-efficient LED to project an irradiated dot on a concave lens. The glass coating then picks up the reticle and displays it to the shooter as a floating image.
A reflex sight can either be open or closed. In an open reflex sight, the light source isn’t enclosed which means environmental factors such as snow, rain and dirt can affect the source of light and impair the display of the illuminated dot.
Closed reflex sights have housing around the light source and so it’s not prone to outside influences. Closed reflex sights can be used in all weather conditions, unlike the open reflex sights.
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Advantages of Reflex Sights
Reflex sights are resourceful optics for short-range and medium distances engagements. Coupled with a magnifier, reflex sights create a dependable and inexpensive shooting solution that can be used instead of a traditional rifle scope.
The biggest advantage of a reflex sight is fast target acquisition. The quick sighting is aided by the unlimited eye relief that allows the shooter to use both eyes.
Besides, using a reflex sight with both eyes open, eliminates tunnel vision further accelerating target acquisition.
Another advantage of reflex sights is its budget-friendly price. You don’t need to break the bank to get a dependable optic to use in your hunting.
Reflex sights do not use sophisticated reticles and numerous controls that you find in other optics like rifle scopes. The simplistic design is one of the reasons for their low prices.
Reflex sights are lightweight and therefore do not add unnecessary weight to your hunting arsenal. The lightweight construction also makes them suitable for use with shotguns and pistols.
Disadvantages of Reflex Sights
Reflex sights’ drawbacks include limited applications. The optics have a single power setting which means they can only cover a certain range.
When trying to capture targets beyond that range, it’s practically impossible. Their use is only limited to short and medium distances. They can’t be used in long-range shooting.
Another disadvantage of reflex sights is the influences from outside. In case there is a significant temperature fluctuation the reflex sight can fog up impeding visual performance.
The open sights are very susceptible to elements such as moisture, rain and snow. If you will be using your reflex sight in harsh weather opt for the closed models like the Holosun HE512C-GD Circle Dot Reflex Sight.
Best Reflex Sight for Deer Hunting FAQs
Q: Are Reflex Sights Good for Hunting?
Yes. Reflex sights are good for a wide range of hunting applications. They offer a wide field of view that aids in quick target acquisition.
You can use a reflex sight as your primary hunting optic or as a secondary sight with a magnified optic.
Q: What is the Effective Range of a Reflex Sight?
If you are using the reflex sight without any magnification, you can aim at a target that is 100 yards away accurately.
If you are looking to acquire targets at longer ranges than this, you should use the reflex sight together with a magnified optic.
Conclusion
We hope that in this guide you have found some insights into the best reflex sight for deer hunting. A good reflex sight will offer unlimited eye relief which translates to quick target acquisition.
It will also allow you to shoot comfortably with both eyes open. Invest in any of the models listed above and use them to make your deer hunting sessions more rewarding this season.