Ever wanted to up your turkey hunting game?
Spring means it’s time to chase those gobblers, and a red dot sight can be the perfect tool to take your accuracy and speed to the next level.
But with so many options on the market, finding the best red dot for turkey hunting can be a challenge.
This guide will explore the key features to consider, along with top-rated red dot sights built for the specific demands of turkey hunting.
My choices:
1. Trijicon MRO
3. Vortex SPARC
7. Trijicon SRO
Note: This article is based on my personal experience. While the products I offer might not be perfect for everyone, they could be a great fit for others.
Top 8 Best Red Dot Sights for Turkey Hunting
1. Trijicon MRO
Let me tell you, the Trijicon MRO has become my go-to red dot sight for turkey hunting. It’s a game changer. Here’s why:
Top Features:
- Sharp Optics: The glass is crystal clear, which is crucial when that gobbler is strutting just out of range. You can see every detail and make a precise shot.
- Perfect Dot Size: The 2 MOA dot offers the ideal balance between precision and quick target acquisition. It allows for pinpoint aiming at close range while still being visible for those slightly longer shots.
- Unbelievable Battery Life: This thing is a champ. Trijicon boasts a 5-year battery life, meaning I can throw it on my shotgun at the start of the season and not worry about it until next year.
- Built Like a Tank: Turkey hunting can be tough on gear, but the MRO is built to handle it. It’s waterproof, shockproof, and ready for whatever the elements throw at you.
- Adaptable Illumination: With eight regular brightness settings and two night vision compatible options, I can adjust the red dot to any lighting condition, from low-light dawn hunts to midday sunshine.
Pros:
- Fast Target Acquisition: Those gobblers can be unpredictable. The MRO’s large field of view and clear dot let me get on target quickly and stay focused.
- Superb Durability: I don’t have to worry about babying this sight. It’s built tough and can take the bumps and scrapes that come with navigating the woods.
- Simple Controls: The buttons are easy to use, even with gloves on. No fumbling around when that trophy bird is in sight.
Cons:
- A Bit Bulky: Compared to some micro red dots, the MRO has a larger footprint. However, the extra size translates to a bigger field of view, which I find more beneficial.
- Not the lightest option: It’s not a heavyweight by any means, but some hunters might prefer a super-light setup.
My Experience:
Since I’ve started using the Trijicon MRO, my turkey hunting has gone to a whole new level. The confidence it gives me in the field is unbeatable. Those close encounters where you only have a split second to react? No problem. The red dot is there, clear and precise, allowing me to focus on the shot.
Head over to online forums and you’ll see that other turkey hunters rave about the MRO. Guys talk about its ruggedness, the long battery life, and how it helps them put birds on the ground. There are a few mentions of the size, but most hunters agree that the benefits outweigh that minor downside.
Overall, the Trijicon MRO is a top-shelf red dot sight, perfect for the demanding world of turkey hunting. It might not be the cheapest option out there, but for me, the investment is well worth the extra birds in the bag.
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2. Holosun SCRS RD MRS
Holosun SCRS RD MRS red dot sight has been a revelation for my turkey hunting adventures. It’s packed with features that make it ideal for those early morning treks and tense moments when a wary gobbler comes into view.
Top Features I Love:
- Dual Reticle System: This is the real star of the show. I can switch between a precise 2 MOA dot for pinpoint accuracy on those distant birds and a 65 MOA circle for fast target acquisition when a gobbler pops out from behind cover. It’s like having two sights in one, perfect for different hunting situations.
- Solar Power Backup: No more scrambling to find a spare battery in the pre-dawn darkness. The solar panel keeps the reticle illuminated throughout the day, and the secondary battery ensures I’m never caught out if things go long.
- Shake Awake: This might seem like a small detail, but it’s a lifesaver. A quick nudge on the sight wakes it up, so I’m ready to take the shot when that big tom finally presents itself.
- Rugged Construction: Turkey hunting often means battling the elements. The Holosun can handle it all — rain, snow, you name it. It’s built tough and ready for anything the woods can throw at me.
Pros:
- Versatility of the dual reticle system
- Solar power for extended use
- Shake Awake for quick activation
- Durable build quality
Cons:
- Some users report the dot can be a little dim on the lowest settings
- Might be overkill for hunters who prefer a simple red dot
My Experience:
Since I’ve started using the Holosun SCRS RD MRS, my turkey hunting has gone to a whole new level. The confidence it gives me in those crucial moments is unmatched. The red dot makes it easy to stay focused on the target and forget about lining up iron sights in the heat of the moment.
I’ve had a couple of situations where the fast target acquisition with the 65 MOA circle came in clutch, allowing me to put a bead on a tom that flushed unexpectedly.
Online reviews for the Holosun SCRS RD MRS are overwhelmingly positive. Hunters praise the versatility of the reticle system, the crisp dot, and the long battery life (thanks to the solar panel). A few users mentioned having to adjust the brightness settings more often in low light, but overall, the sentiment is clear — this sight is a valuable tool for turkey hunters.
If you’re looking for a red dot sight that can give you an edge in the turkey woods, the Holosun SCRS RD MRS is definitely worth considering. It’s a feature-packed optic that can help you take your turkey hunting to the next level.
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3. Vortex Sparc
Vortex Sparc Solar red dot sight has become my turkey hunting partner in crime. It’s not just a fancy red dot; it’s a game-changer for those crucial pre-dawn setups and those moments when a gobbler struts into range. Here’s why:
Top Features:
- Solar Power, Baby: This thing is a lifesaver. The solar panel keeps the red dot illuminated, so I don’t have to worry about scrambling to replace a dead battery in the middle of a hunt. Even on cloudy days, the backup CR2032 battery ensures I’m never caught empty-handed.
- Quick Acquisition: Forget fiddling with peep sights in low light. The Sparc Solar’s unlimited eye relief lets me get on target fast, which is crucial when a tom is putting on a show.
- Dot Perfection: The 2 MOA red dot is just the right size — big enough to see clearly, but not so big that it covers up my target. Plus, the 10 brightness settings let me adjust for everything from pre-dawn gloom to midday sun.
- Built Like a Tank: Let’s face it, turkey hunting often means rough terrain. The Sparc Solar is built tough, handling bumps and weather like a champ.
Pros:
- Fast target acquisition is key in those heart-pounding moments.
- Battery life is no sweat thanks to the solar panel.
- Durable construction means I can rely on it in the field.
- Simple controls make adjustments on the fly a breeze.
Cons:
- No magnification: While magnification isn’t usually necessary for turkey hunting distances, it might be a drawback for some.
- Red dot only: If you prefer a different reticle option, this sight might not be for you.
Field Experience:
Let me tell you, this sight has transformed my turkey hunting. Those pre-dawn setups are a breeze now. I can quickly find the bird in the dim light and stay focused on the action. And when that gobbler comes strutting in, the Sparc Solar helps me make a clean, ethical shot.
I’m not the only one raving about the Sparc Solar. Online forums are full of praise for its durability, clear dot, and long battery life. One user even mentioned how the shake-awake feature saved him from fumbling for buttons when a tom showed up unexpectedly.
Overall, the Vortex Sparc Solar is a top-notch red dot sight for turkey hunting. It’s reliable, easy to use, and helps me put birds in the bag. If you’re looking to up your turkey game, this sight is definitely worth checking out.
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4. Leupold Freedom RDS
Leupold Freedom RDS has become my go-to red dot sight for turkey hunting. It’s a game-changer, especially when those birds decide to play hide-and-seek in the brush. Here’s why:
Top Features:
- Lightning Fast Aiming: Forget fiddling with iron sights in the heat of the moment. The red dot makes target acquisition a breeze, especially when that tom suddenly pops out from behind a tree.
- Built Like a Tank: This thing is tough. Turkey hunting can be rough on gear, but the Leupold’s 34mm main tube shrugs off bumps and bangs. It’s also waterproof and fogproof, so you can hunt with confidence no matter the weather.
- Unlimited Eye Relief: This is a big deal. No more worrying about perfect eye placement. With the Freedom RDS, you can get a clear sight picture however you shoulder the shotgun, which is crucial in those fast-paced situations.
Pros:
- Quick Shots: Those fleeting opportunities on a wary gobbler won’t be wasted with the speedy targeting this red dot offers.
- Superb Build Quality: Leupold’s reputation for rock-solid optics is well-deserved, and the Freedom RDS is no exception.
- Wide Field of View: You don’t lose sight of the surroundings with this optic, which is important for tracking a moving bird.
Cons:
- Battery Life: While the battery life is decent, it’s not infinite. Always pack a spare just in case.
- Bulkier Than Iron Sights: It adds a little weight and profile to your shotgun compared to iron sights, but for me, the benefit outweighs the drawback.
My Experience:
Since I switched to the Leupold Freedom RDS, my turkey hunting success rate has definitely climbed. The speed and accuracy it brings to the table are undeniable. It’s confidence-inspiring to know you can get on target quickly and cleanly when that trophy tom finally shows himself.
Head over to online forums and you’ll see other turkey hunters raving about the Freedom RDS. They love the durability, the clear dot, and the ability to make those precise head shots. There are some mentions of wishing the battery life was a bit longer, but that seems like a minor quibble for most.
Overall, the Leupold Freedom RDS is a fantastic choice for any turkey hunter who wants a red dot sight that can keep up with the demands of the hunt. It’s a reliable, well-built optic that puts you on target faster, and that can mean the difference between a successful season and a tag left unfilled.
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5. Holosun EPS Carry
Holosun EPS Carry red dot sight has been a revelation for my turkey hunting adventures. It’s like it was designed specifically for this purpose. Here’s why I love it:
Top Features:
- Enclosed Emitter: This is a huge deal. Turkey hunting often means battling the elements, and the EPS Carry’s enclosed emitter protects the red dot from rain, snow, and even mud. No more worries about a malfunction at a critical moment.
- Miniature Size: This sight is ridiculously lightweight and compact. It sits so low on my shotgun’s rail that it barely throws off the balance, making it a dream to maneuver in the field.
- Clear and Crisp Dot: The 2 MOA dot is sharp and precise, perfect for quick and accurate targeting on those sneaky turkeys. Plus, the adjustable brightness lets me fine-tune it for any lighting condition.
- Battery Life: Holosun claims a whopping 50,000 hours of battery life. That’s multiple turkey seasons without a single change! Talk about peace of mind.
Pros in the Field:
- Fast Target Acquisition: With the red dot, I can acquire my target much faster than with iron sights. Those fleeting opportunities in the brush are no longer a miss.
- Improved Accuracy: Especially in low-light situations, the red dot helps me zero in on the bird’s head for a clean and ethical shot.
- Durable Construction: I’ve taken this sight through some rough terrain and it’s held up beautifully. It feels like it could withstand anything I throw at it.
Now, for some things to consider:
- Limited Reticle Options: The EPS Carry only comes with a 2 MOA dot or a 2 MOA dot with a 32 MOA circle. While the dot is great for turkey hunting, some folks might prefer different reticle options.
- Finding the Right Mount: Depending on your shotgun’s setup, you might need to purchase a separate mounting plate to get the EPS Carry installed.
Overall Experience:
Look, I’m sold on the Holosun EPS Carry for turkey hunting. It’s given me a significant edge in the field, making me a more confident and effective hunter. The combination of its size, durability, and clear sight picture is hard to beat.
Online reviews rave about the EPS Carry’s compact design and impressive battery life. Some users wish for a larger window or automatic brightness adjustment, but overall, the sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, particularly for shotgun use.
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6. Bushnell RXS-250
Bushnell RXS-250 has become my go-to red dot for turkey hunting. It’s not fancy, but it gets the job done and then some. Here’s what I love about it:
- Big, Bold Dot: Forget fiddling with tiny red dots. The RXS-250’s 4 MOA dot is easy to pick up in the pre-dawn woods, which is crucial for those quick close-range shots. It’s a great balance between fast target acquisition and precise aiming.
- Battery Life Champ: We all know the frustration of a dead red dot at the worst moment. Bushnell claims a whopping 50,000 hours on mid-brightness. I haven’t put that many hunts on it, but let’s just say I haven’t worried about the battery dying yet. Top-loading battery changes are a breeze too, no need to re-sight the whole thing.
- See Through the Brush: The wide field of view on the RXS-250 is a winner. You can stay focused on the entire scene without getting tunnel vision, which is important for those birds that like to weave through the trees. Plus, the multi-coated optics deliver a crisp, clear image.
Now, it’s not perfect. The red dot itself isn’t adjustable, which might be a turnoff for some folks. But honestly, the 4 MOA size has worked great for me on turkeys.
Here’s what other hunters are saying online:
- A lot of people praise the RXS-250 for its durability. It seems built tough enough to handle the bumps and scrapes of the hunt.
- Some reviewers would prefer a smaller dot option, but again, the 4 MOA seems to be a good middle ground for most.
- Overall, the online consensus seems to be that the RXS-250 punches above its weight in terms of value and performance.
If you’re looking for a reliable, no-frills red dot sight for your next turkey hunt, the Bushnell RXS-250 is definitely worth checking out. It’s helped me put a few longbeards on the ground, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it.
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7. Trijicon SRO
As a turkey hunter who prioritizes fast target acquisition in the heat of the moment, the Trijicon SRO has become my go-to red dot sight. Let me tell you why.
Winning Features:
- Wide Field of View: This is the SRO’s true game-changer. The generous window makes finding the red dot intuitive, even with both eyes open. It eliminates the tunnel vision effect you can get with some other red dots, keeping you aware of your surroundings and that sneaky gobbler circling just out of sight.
- Crisp Dot: The 2.5 MOA dot is a perfect balance. It’s small enough for precise aiming but big enough to pick up quickly in low-light situations, which are common during those early morning hunts.
- Battery Life & Ease of Use: The SRO boasts incredible battery life, lasting for years on a single CR2032. Plus, the top-loading battery compartment is a lifesaver. No need to re-sight the entire optic when it’s time for a change.
Weighing the Downsides:
While nearly perfect for my needs, there are a couple of things to consider.
- Durability: Some hunters might find the SRO’s housing a bit less robust compared to other Trijicon models. However, I haven’t had any issues with it handling the bumps and scrapes of turkey season.
- Not a True Rifle Optic: The SRO is designed for handguns and shotguns, so the reticle doesn’t offer the magnification you might need for long-range turkey hunting.
Field Experience:
The SRO has transformed my turkey hunting. Those fleeting moments when a gobbler pops into view are no longer a scramble to find the bead. The wide window and clear dot let me put the red dot right where it belongs, resulting in a significant increase in my confidence and success rate.
Fellow hunters online rave about the SRO’s fast target acquisition and clear sight picture. There are some discussions about the durability compared to other Trijicon models, but most users, like myself, haven’t experienced any problems in the field.
Overall, the Trijicon SRO is an excellent red dot sight for turkey hunting, especially for those who value speed and ease of use. If you’re looking for a true rifle optic with magnification, then this might not be your best choice. But for close to mid-range turkey encounters, the SRO is a top contender.
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8. Aimpoint Micro S-1
As a turkey hunter who prioritizes both precision and a natural feel, the Aimpoint Micro S-1 red dot sight has become an absolute game-changer for me. Let me tell you why.
Top Features and Pros:
- Tiny Terror: This sight is ridiculously compact and lightweight. It sits unobtrusively on my shotgun’s rib, keeping the gun’s balance perfect for those long hunts where every ounce counts.
- Focus on the Bird: The unlimited eye relief and clear 6 MOA red dot lets me stay completely focused on the turkey. No more lining up beads and a blurry target — just a crisp dot on the gobbler’s head.
- Built Like a Tank: Turkey season can be rough on gear. This Aimpoint sight is built to withstand the elements, bumps, and scrapes that come with the territory. Plus, the legendary Aimpoint battery life means I can hunt all season without a worry.
- Quick Acquisition: Those fleeting moments when a tom presents himself are gold. The Micro S-1 lets me acquire the target ultra-fast, keeping my bead on the bird and not on the sights themselves. This translates to more precise aiming and cleaner shots.
A Few Considerations:
- Shotgun Specific: While the Micro S-1 is fantastic for shotguns, it’s not magnified like a scope. This sight excels at closer ranges, which is perfect for those heart-pounding turkey encounters.
- Red Dot Dance: If you’re new to red dots, there’s a slight learning curve. The dot doesn’t magically translate to bullet impact — you’ll need to practice finding your point of aim.
In the Field:
Since I’ve mounted the Micro S-1, my turkey hunting has become smoother, faster, and frankly, more successful. The ability to focus entirely on the bird and have that clear red dot there for instant acquisition has boosted my confidence and resulted in cleaner harvests.
Across forums and hunting communities, the sentiment towards the Micro S-1 is overwhelmingly positive. Hunters praise its compact design, durability, and the massive advantage it gives in fast-paced turkey encounters. There are some mentions of the red dot learning curve, but overall, users rave about this sight.
Sure, there are other red dot options out there, but for me, the Micro S-1’s combination of lightweight build, exceptional durability, and lightning-fast target acquisition makes it the perfect partner for my turkey hunting adventures.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, the best red dot sight for turkey hunting depends on your budget, shooting style, and desired features.
Do your research, consider the options above, and prioritize the qualities most important to you.
With the right red dot on your shotgun, you’ll be well-equipped to make that critical spring gobbler harvest.