What is a red dot scope?

Answer 1

A red dot scope is simply a rifle or pistol scope that instead of having cross-hairs, it projects a small red dot (like a laser pointer used by teachers) onto your target. They are usually about 4-5 inches in length, and just over 1 1/4" in diameter. They get power from lithium "button" style batteries, and most have a control knob that can be adjusted to make the dot brighter or dimmer depending on the outdoor light /sunlight/darkness conditions. The red dot is only "projected" on the target from inside the scope view. The dot doesn't actually project onto your target like some Laser sights do. They can be used with both eyes open making hitting a moving target easier, and can be mounted on most any rifle or pistol.

Answer 2

JD did a nice job of answering the question. I would add that most red dot scopes have no magnification. They are designed for shooting fast at close up targets. Some do have some magnification and the Bushnell Holosight can be had with 2X and Aimpoint makes a magnifier that can be used in conjunction with their red do scope. Leupold also makes one with some magnification. Most that use magnification are far more expensive than those that don't.

I've used them for years in competition on both rifles and pistols.

Answer 3

JD gives a good explanation of this type of scope (as he usually does on firearms questions). I have an EoTech sight on my M-4. You might want to check out their web site. I'd like to point out that mine runs on 2 standard AA batteries. I use Duracells with good battery life.

Aimpoint is another popular version of this kind of sighting system. Websites listed below.

Answer 4

An optical device that paints a red dot at the point of impact as you look through it.
Generally considiered a 'quick point` type of sight.

Answer 5

The name says it all.Its a scope that instead of useing crosshairs it uses a red dot.

Answer 6

that shouldent even be a question