How Far Should you Sight in a Red Dot Sight?
Learn how to properly sight in a red dot sight for your firearm with this comprehensive blog post covering types of sights, benefits of using a red dot, and factors to consider when sighting in. Two popular methods, 10-yard and 50-yard sighting, are discussed, as well as common mistakes to avoid and different ways to mount a red dot sight. Follow the tips outlined in this post to ensure your red dot is correctly calibrated for accurate shooting in any situation.
Introduction
Time to read: 6 minutes
Date: May 30, 2023
Are you considering purchasing a red dot sight for your firearm? If so, it’s essential to learn how to sight in your red dot sight properly. This blog post will cover all the aspects of sighting in a red dot, from understanding what a red dot is and why it’s crucial to the different types of sights, the benefits of using a red dot, how to sight in a red dot and factors to consider when sighting in.
We’ll also provide tips for sighting in a red dot, common mistakes to avoid when sighting in, and different ways to mount your red dot sight. Finally, we’ll answer the question: “How far should you sight a red dot?”
Types of Red Dot Sights
When it comes to choosing the right type of red dot sight for your needs, there are a few factors to consider. Red dot sights come in a variety of sizes and styles, from tiny dots designed for close-range shooting to larger dots that can be used at longer distances. It is crucial to choose the right size dot for the range you will be shooting at, as extended use of a red dot sight can be tiring on the eyes.
10-yard sighting is easier to adjust for close targets by aiming an inch or so high, while 50-yard sighting allows you to hit targets at all distances with no need for a holdover or holdunder. For USPSA competitions, many shooters opt for red dot sights while others experiment with magnified optics such as LPVOs (low-power variable optics).
The choice of optic is determined not only by the shooter’s familiarity with the rifle and optic but also by the required distance of the shots. A red dot sight can be used for shots up to 500 yards away if the shooter has a strong command of their rifle and optic. There are several different types of sights to consider:
Reflex sights
Reflex sights use a single, illuminated red dot or green dot reticle that is projected onto a small mirror or lens in the optic. The shooter looks through the lens and sees the dot superimposed on the target. Reflex sights are compact and lightweight, making them ideal for use on handguns and rifles.
Holographic sights
Holographic sights use a laser to project a holographic reticle onto a glass plate in the optic. The shooter looks through the plate and sees the reticle superimposed on the target. Holographic sights are comparable to reflex sights in terms of size and weight, but holographic sights may be more shock-resistant and durable overall.
Prism sights
In prism sights, the reticle is reflected off of a prism and back into the eye of the shooter. They take up less space than traditional scopes but still provide magnification—typically in the range of 1-5 times the original size. Prism sights are an excellent choice for shooters who require moderate magnification but are looking for an optic that is both lightweight and compact at the same time.
Laser sights
Laser sights are capable of projecting a laser beam onto the target in either a red or green color. They are frequently used in conjunction with other types of optics or iron sights in order to provide an additional aiming reference. In conditions with low light or when shooting from an unconventional position, laser sights can be of great assistance.
Benefits of Using a Red Dot Sight
Using a red dot sight can provide many benefits for competitive shooters. The most obvious benefit is the increased accuracy at long range. Red dot sights also have different size options, allowing you to adjust for close targets by aiming an inch or so high. Additionally, red dot sights are less tiring on the eyes than iron sights, making them ideal for extended use.
This will help ensure accuracy and consistency with your shots. Red dot sights are also becoming increasingly popular in USPSA competitions due to their versatility and wider field of view than iron sights. With proper knowledge of your rifle and optics, you can even make 500-yard shots with a red dot sight!
How to Sight in a Red Dot Sight
When it comes to sighting in a red dot sight, there are two popular methods: 10-yard sighting and 50-yard sighting.
- 10-yard sighting is easier to adjust for close targets, but you have to be careful not to shoot too low when the target is further away.
- 50-yard sighting allows you to hit targets at all distances with no need for a holdover or holdunder, but it can be more challenging to find a range that will allow you to shoot at 50 yards.
For USPSA competitions, many shooters opt for the tried and true red dot sight, while others experiment with magnified optics such as LPVOs (low-power variable optics).
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Sighting in a Red Dot Sight
When sighting in a red dot sight, it is paramount to avoid common mistakes that can lead to inaccurate shots. One mistake is not taking into account the range of the target. If you are shooting at a target that is farther away than your sight is calibrated for, you may need to adjust your aim accordingly.
Another mistake is not taking breaks when using the red dot sight for extended periods of time. This can cause eye fatigue and reduce accuracy. Additionally, it’s essential to use the correct size dot for the range being shot at; if you use too small of a dot, it will be difficult to see and aim accurately.
Finally, don’t forget that iron sights move just as much as red dots; however, it’s harder to tell because the dot is smaller. To ensure accuracy with a red dot sight, focus on keeping the reticle still and shoot in groups of five rounds at 25 yards. If your group can be covered with your hand, then you are doing well!
Different Ways to Mount a Red Dot Sight
When mounting a red dot sight, it is essential to make certain that the sight is mounted securely and that the reticle is aligned correctly with the barrel of the firearm. Utilizing a bore sighter or a laser bore sighter to check that the reticle is properly centered on the target is one way to accomplish this.
When shooting, it is of the utmost importance to check that the mount is stable and won’t shake or move in any way. If possible, use a mount with adjustable tension screws so that you can adjust how tight or loose it fits on your firearm. Additionally, if you are using an extended eye relief scope, make sure to mount it at least 3 inches away from your eye for optimal performance.
Conclusion
Sighting in a red dot sight is an essential step for any shooter looking to maximize their accuracy. Knowing how far to sight in your red dot depends on factors such as the type of gun you’re using, the range you plan to shoot at, and your personal preferences.
It’s essential to take the time to mount your red dot sight properly, make sure it’s adjusted correctly, and practice regularly with it to ensure that it’s providing you with the best performance possible. If you take all these precautions and use the tips outlined in this post, you can be confident that your red dot will be properly sighted in for any shooting situation.
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