As an avid shooter and firearm enthusiast, I’ve always been on the lookout for ways to enhance my shooting experience without burning a hole in my pocket. Over the years, I’ve come to realize the immense value of a good red dot sight, especially when paired with an AR rifle or pistol.
It’s not just about the accuracy; it’s about the speed of target acquisition, the confidence it instills, and the overall improvement in shooting performance. But here’s the catch: quality optics can be expensive.
I’ve tested and reviewed several different budget red dot sights specifically for our AR rifles and I found these 10 to be the best red dot sights. They maintained some quality and were all under $100.
1. Bushnell Trophy TRS-25
This guy is tough. It is 100 percent waterproof/shockproof / fogproof and the CR2032 battery is included and offers a long life if you remember to turn it off after use! My first experience with the TRS 25 was when I was turkey hunting with my 12-year-old son.
I bought him a 20 gauge shotgun and added the red dot to create a better experience. It worked – the little guy is hooked! Remember that this isn’t a $500 Aimpoint but this Bushnell TRS-25 is definitely worth the money.
It’s high quality and is very durable. What’s nice is that it’s so tiny, I could put it on any of my firearms, including a pistol. In my opinion, it is the best budget red dot sight that you can find for the money. For under $100, it’s a great buy.
Key Features
| Feature/Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Brand | Bushnell |
| Color | Negro (Black) |
| Style | Red Dot Sight |
| Dimensions | 2.5 x 3.4 x 2.2 inches |
| Material | Metal |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 25mm |
| Maximum Magnification | 1x |
| Compatible Devices | Pistol, Shotgun, Rifle |
| Mount Type | Picatinny |
- Compact and lightweight design.
- Waterproof, fog-resistant, and shock-resistant.
- Versatile mounting options with compatibility for various firearms.
- 11 intensity settings for the red dot.
- Durable metal construction.
- The red dot might appear blurry or distorted if the intensity is too high for the ambient light conditions.
- Some users have reported issues with the red dot’s brightness and centering.
2. Dagger Defense DDHB
The Dagger Defense is another great budget red dot scope. For under $50, it’s a great deal to add to your AR, or any rifle for that matter. It’s also one of Amazon’s best sellers when it comes to budget red dot sights.
It’s advertised as a great red dot for an AR-15, AK47, or M4, but honestly can be used for any rifle you need it for. If you are on a strict budget but still want an inexpensive red dot sight, the DDHB is a good red dot for the money. I tested the Dagger out on my AR-10. Out of the box, it looked great.
The sight looked like it was made of high quality, and felt durable. It felt much more expensive than its price tag. The reticle was very bright with a great range and the brightness responded immediately when I would adjust the settings, a great sign in a budget red dot sight.
Once I sighted the scope, the red dot stayed center at 25 yards throughout the entire review. Holding zero is ALWAYS important and something you have to test when buying a budget red dot sight. Also to note, I spent around 5 hours testing other sights, and accidentally left the Dagger on the whole time! To my surprise, the scope stayed bright and never faded that entire time on its battery.
Also, something to mention, the customer support is great. I had a small issue with the crosshair-shaped reticle after about 10 days or so 9of course, for all I know it could have been an issue the entire time as I hadn’t used the crosshair reticle yet).
I was really happy because they sent me a new one and didn’t require me to send the other one back! Overall, the Dagger is a great budget red dot sight, and for the money, it’s worth every penny.
Features
| Feature/Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Reticle Color | Red and Green |
| Reticle Positions | Four positions |
| Aperture | 33mm |
| Length | 82mm |
| Weight | 291g |
| Field of View | 15.8m at 100m |
| Rail Type | Picatinny |
| Battery | CR2032 (Included) |
| Accessories | Manual, 2x Allen Wrench, Lens Cleaning Cloth |
- Sturdy and well-built design.
- Bright and clear reticles in both red and green.
- Easy installation and adjustment.
- Comes with an extra battery.
- Excellent customer service from Dagger Defense.
- Some packages might miss the wrench.
- Concerns about the adjustment tightening screw.
3. UTG 3.8″ ITA Red/Green Red Dot Sight
The UTG ITA is a great entry-level red dot scope and a great choice for your first optic on an AR. It detaches quickly to any Picatinny or Weaver-style rail and comes with a riser adapter and a CR1620 battery.
I tested this UTG on one of my AR-15s and it has stood up to the test, surprisingly. For under $30 this sight has done all that I can ask and continues to perform every time. One main issue with some of the entry-level red dots is battery life – remember to turn it off!
With that being said, the UTG has a great battery life and will last you a while. I put around 300 rounds through the AR throughout the test and it held zero. Even after I removed it and remounted it several times and even dropped it on the ground, it still held zero perfectly. This is a very durable scope for its price. I always expect cheap products and low quality with something under $30, but this passed all of my tests! Truly one of the best budget red dot sights you can find.
Key Features
| Key Features/Specifications | Description |
|---|---|
| Dot Color | Red/Green |
| Sight Length | 3.8″ |
| Mount Type | Integral QD |
| Illumination | Adjustable |
| Construction | Robust |
- Versatile red/green dot illumination is suitable for various lighting conditions.
- Quick and easy targeting with precise accuracy.
- Integral QD mount ensures a secure fit.
- Durable and robust construction.
- User-friendly with adjustable settings.
- Some users found the sight to be a bit bulky.
- A few reports of the dot being too bright even on the lowest setting.
- Occasional issues with the mounting system loosening over time.
4. Field Sport Red and Green Reflex Sight
Out of the box, it seemed heavy-duty and throughout the test, it stayed that way. A very well-made budget red dot sight. The glass is high quality and the sight itself has really good eye relief. I was very satisfied with how well it withstood my abuse. I also have to mention how well it held zero.
After a few hundred rounds, it still performed great and that’s all I can ask for. The battery life is amazing. After all, it doesn’t take much juice to keep the dot glowing, but always make sure you have a spare battery, just in case. I tested the Field Sports Reflex Sight on my .22LR. If you are looking for an inexpensive red dot with value, the Field Sport is a great option.
Features
| Feature/Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Brand | FieldSport |
| Color | Green |
| Style | Red and Green Illumination Dot Reflex Sight |
| Dimensions | 3.23 x 1.25 x 2 inches |
| Weight | 4 Ounces |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Magnification Maximum | 1x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 30 Millimeters |
| Magnification Minimum | 1x |
- Durable and reliable with high-quality construction.
- Offers clear and crisp reticles for precise shooting.
- Holds zero effectively even after multiple rounds.
- Some users reported image distortion when using magnification.
- Might not be suitable for all types of firearms due to size.
5. 3 MOA Red Dot Scope
Red Dot Sight by GODREAMIT is a compact, high-performance reflex rifle scope designed for precision and durability. Crafted with aircraft-grade aluminum alloy housing, this sight promises longevity with its fogproof, shockproof, and waterproof features.
The sight boasts fully multi-coated lenses, 11 distinct brightness settings, and a 3 MOA Dot reticle. Paired with a 1-inch riser mount and unlimited eye relief, it ensures rapid target acquisition with unparalleled accuracy.
What sets the GODREAMIT red dot sight apart is its high-quality achromatic doublet lens, which minimizes spherical aberration, reduces internal light loss, and guarantees a clearer and brighter red dot. Whether you’re using an AR/15, rifle, shotgun, or airsoft, this sight is the perfect companion for your shooting needs.
Key Features
| Feature/Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Brand | GODREAMIT |
| Color | Black |
| Style | 3 MOA |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 22 Millimeters |
| Magnification | 1x |
| Mounting Type | Weaver Mount |
| Night Vision | No |
| Weight | 0.23 Kilograms |
- Great sight picture and clarity.
- Durable and holds zero well.
- Excellent customer service from the seller.
- Clear dot with multiple brightness settings.
- Quality product at an affordable price.
- Some users found the brightness adjustment knob to be very tight.
- Lack of clear instructions for installation and battery placement.
- Quality control could be improved; some users received damaged products.
Buying Guide
The market is flooded with numerous options, making the selection process daunting. Here’s what you need to consider when choosing the right one:
- Purpose and Usage: Before diving into the purchase, determine your primary use for the sight. Are you a competitive shooter, a hunter, or just a hobbyist? Your usage will dictate the kind of sight you need.
- Reticle Size and Color: The size of the dot (measured in MOA) and its color (typically red or green) are crucial. A smaller dot offers more precision but might be harder to pick up quickly, while a larger dot is faster to acquire but less precise at longer distances.
- Battery Life: A longer battery life means less frequent replacements or recharges. Some models offer solar backup, which can be beneficial in outdoor settings.
- Durability and Construction: Look for sights made of durable materials like aircraft-grade aluminum. Ensure the sight is waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-resistant, especially if you plan to use it in rugged conditions.
- Brightness Settings: A good red dot sight will offer multiple brightness settings to adapt to various lighting conditions, from bright daylight to low-light dusk scenarios.
- Mounting Options: Ensure the sight is compatible with your firearm’s rail system, be it Picatinny, Weaver, or something else. Some sights come with integral mounts, while others might require a separate purchase.
- Lens Quality: A high-quality lens will provide a clear and crisp image. Multi-coated lenses reduce glare and offer better light transmission.
- Night Vision Compatibility: If you plan to use your sight in low-light conditions or with night vision equipment, ensure your red dot sight is compatible.
- Price: While this guide focuses on budget options, it’s essential to strike a balance between cost and quality. Sometimes, spending a bit more can offer significantly better quality and durability.
For example, Dagger Defense DDHB is a top choice for those on a strict budget, this sight is one of Amazon’s best sellers in the budget category.
Reviews and Recommendations
Always check product reviews and ask for recommendations. User experiences can provide invaluable insights into a product’s real-world performance.
FAQs
Why are red dot sights preferred for AR rifles and pistols?
Red dot sights are favored for AR rifles and pistols due to their quick target acquisition capabilities. They allow the shooter to maintain situational awareness, as they can keep both eyes open while aiming. This is especially beneficial in dynamic shooting scenarios or close-quarters combat where speed and accuracy are paramount.
Are budget red dot sights suitable for long-range shooting?
While red dot sights excel at close to mid-range engagements, they are not typically designed for long-range precision shooting. Their primary advantage is quick target acquisition. For long-range shooting, magnified optics or scopes with reticle adjustments are more appropriate. However, some shooters pair red dot sights with magnifiers to extend their effective range.
How long does the battery typically last on a budget red dot sight?
Battery life on budget red dot sights can vary significantly based on the model, brightness settings, and usage. On average, you can expect anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand hours of operation. It’s always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s specifications and user reviews for specific battery life estimates.
Can I use a budget red dot sight in adverse weather conditions?
Many budget red dot sights are built with durability in mind and can withstand common weather conditions like rain or fog. However, it’s essential to check if the sight is waterproof or fog-resistant before exposing it to such conditions. Regular maintenance and cleaning will also ensure its longevity.
Is there a significant difference in the quality of the dot between budget and premium red dot sights?
While premium red dot sights often offer crisper and brighter dots with more adjustable settings, many budget options provide satisfactory performance for their price. The clarity and brightness of the dot might vary, but for casual shooting and practice, budget sights can be more than adequate.
Do budget red dot sights hold zero well?
Most budget red dot sights are designed to hold zero effectively once they’re set. However, the robustness of the mount, the quality of the sight’s construction, and the recoil of the firearm can influence how well a sight maintains its zero. It’s recommended to periodically check and adjust if necessary, especially after rough handling or extended periods of use.
Final Thoughts
Red dot sights are becoming more and more popular. Technology has come so far that it has allowed even amateur hunters and shooters to purchase an AR Red Dot.
If you have the budget (or are willing to save up for it), then buy the Aimpoint PRO Patrol Optic. This is one of the best AR 15 optics on the market. With insane battery life and built-to-last construction, this red dot may actually outlast the shooter. This scope is still a fantastic purchase for the money. However, not all of us have the budget for the Aimpoint.
In that case, any of the budget red dot scopes above are great choices for you and your AR. But if I had to choose one, the Bushnell TRS-25 is probably the best budget red dot scope for the money. Make sure to check out my post on how to sight in your rifle scope here. Stay safe and happy shooting.