Turkey hunting is a pursuit that requires patience, skill, and above all, precision. Success hinges on your ability to put an accurate shot quickly, often at unpredictable distances and in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. The best turkey hunting red dots are key to taking clean, ethical shots and we are here to help you select the perfect model for your needs.
With advancements in optics technology, red dots have become an indispensable tool for turkey hunting. These sighting tools offer unmatched benefits from faster target acquisition to improved accuracy and versatile reticle designs.
In this guide, we look at the top red dot sights specifically designed with turkey hunting in mind. These red dot sights stand out for their lens clarity, durability, battery life, and mounting options to ensure you’re equipped with the best optic.
So, without further ado, let’s dive right in.
1) Swampfox Sentinel II 1×20 Dot Sight
When every shot counts, boost your accuracy and precision with this efficient red dot sight. It’s specially designed to allow quick target acquisition giving you a tactical advantage in your hunting adventures.
Specifications
- Reticle: 3 MOA
- Brightness Settings: 10
- Adjustment Type: MOA
- Objective Lens Diameter: 20mm
- Weight: 0.99oz
- Length: 1.84”
- Field of View, Linear: 105.7 – 18.32 ft at 100 yds
The Swampfox Sentinel II 1×20 Dot Sight stands out as one of the best turkey hunting red dots. It is a compact optic designed with durability and user functionality in mind. This efficient reflex sight will transform your hunting experience for the better.
The highlight of this red dot sight is its optical clarity. It boasts fully multi-coated glass which provides a crisp, bright field of view with minimal glare, even in low-light conditions. Furthermore, the lens is large enough to allow for quick target acquisition without sacrificing the compact form factor.
The auto-brightness feature further enhances the optical finesse, which quickly adapts the red dot’s brightness based on ambient light conditions. The 3 MOA dot is also essential for precision without obscuring the target, allowing for high accuracy even at greater distances.
Another highlight of the Sentinel II is its robust construction. The body is crafted from 7075-T6 aluminum, providing a lightweight yet durable frame that withstands rigorous use and impact. On top of that, the sight is water- and fog-resistant, ensuring reliable performance in harsh weather conditions.
Pros
- Long battery life
- Straightforward installation process
- Robust aluminum construction
- Wide field of view
- Great features for the price
Cons
- The mounting plate is not included
2) Bushnell 1X25mm RXS-250 Reflex Sight
This is a top-notch reflex sight with useful features to help you find targets promptly and execute precise shots. This budget-friendly red dot sight is a perfect solution for all of your turkey hunting needs.
Specifications
- Reticle: 4 MOA
- Brightness Settings: 10
- Adjustment Click Value: 1 MOA
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm
- Weight: 2.3oz
- Length: 46.2 mm
- Battery Life: 50,000 Hours
The Bushnell 1X25mm RXS-250 Reflex Sight is a highly versatile and reliable optic ideal for hunters who prioritize clarity, durability, and simplicity. Its combination of high-grade materials, clear optics, and ease of use make it a top choice for turkey hunting.
This sighting tool employs a large 4 MOA red dot which makes rapid target acquisition a breeze. Paired with Bushnell’s crystal-clear glass and multi-coated lens, it performs exceptionally well in various lighting conditions, from bright daylight to low-light environments.
The brightness of the reticle is adjustable into 10 levels for users to adjust its intensity relative to the lighting conditions. Furthermore, the sight has a long battery life so it won’t fail in the middle of use.
Another impressive aspect is its durable aluminum housing. It is rugged enough for heavy-duty applications and IP67-rated, meaning it’s waterproof, dustproof, and tested for full submersion in water, making it highly resilient in extreme weather.
Pros
- Quick and straightforward installation
- Crisp 4 MOA reticle
- Long battery life
- Rugged and reliable construction
Cons
- Small control buttons
3) Burris FastFire III Reflex Red Dot Sight
An effective red dot sight will transform your turkey hunting for the better. Burris Fast III is a top-grade optic that ranks highly among the best turkey hunting red dots because of its intuitive design and robust construction.
Specifications
- Reticle: 3 MOA
- Brightness Settings: 3
- Adjustment Click Value: 1 MOA
- Objective Lens Diameter: 21mm
- Weight: 1.5oz
- Length: 1.9in
- Field of View, Linear: 190 ft at 100 yds
As one of the best turkey hunting red dots, the Burris FastFire III Reflex Red Dot Sight stands out for its performance and value. It is reasonably inexpensive yet a reliable and versatile optic that combines rugged durability with excellent clarity.
This red dot sight is built with portability and ease of use in mind. Its lightweight and compact design makes it easy to install with no special tools needed.
Though light, the sight is built to last. The aluminum housing is solid, sturdy, and resistant to water and shock. This means it can handle rough handling in the field without sacrificing performance.
Furthermore, the FastFire III offers a 3 MOA dot reticle great for precision aiming. The brightness adjustment feature is intuitive, allowing you to switch between three brightness levels or an automatic brightness mode that adapts to the ambient lighting conditions.
Above all, this red dot sight provides parallax-free aiming, allowing you to keep both eyes open and maintain situational awareness while shooting.
Pros
- Convenient top-loading access
- Compact and lightweight
- Solid aluminum housing
- Crisp 3 MOA reticle
Cons
- Relatively short battery life
4) Canik MECANIK MO2 Versatile Reflex Sight
Reflex sights give you the advantage when it matters the most and the Canik MO2 red dot sight offers the versatility and functionality for any hunting application. Its brilliant optics made it a prime choice for turkey hunting.
Specifications
- Reticle: 3 MOA
- Material: Aluminum
- Weight: 8.47 ounces
- Length: 1.85in
- Height: 1.08”
The Canik MECANIK MO2 Versatile Reflex Sight is a compact and rugged red dot sight optimized for versatility. It offers impressive value for those looking to enhance their shooting accuracy.
With a lightweight, durable construction, this optic adapts well across various firearms and is perfect for pistols, shotguns, and rifles as well. Besides, its aircraft-grade aluminum build makes it both lightweight and durable, handling recoil exceptionally well without impacting precision.
To complement the robust construction, the sight features a 3 MOA dot size that offers a fine balance between quick target acquisition and precision. Additionally, the sight boasts a parallax-free design, meaning that users can focus on their targets without worrying about point-of-aim errors.
Battery life on the Canik MECANIK MO2 is also impressive, rated to last around 20,000 hours on a medium setting. Moreover, the device is compatible with multiple mounting systems, making it a hassle-free addition to most setups. It also features windage and elevation adjustments to refine point-of-impact settings to personal preferences.
Pros
- The recessed lens provides added protection against potential impacts or debris
- Lightweight and easy to install
- Rugged aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Versatile and easy to use
Cons
- Lack of manual brightness settings
5) Bushnell TRS-25 Trophy Series Red Dot Sight
For enhanced performance and improved accuracy, mount the TRS-25 on your turkey hunting rifle. Bushnell TRS-25 stands out as one of the best turkey hunting red dots because of its robust construction and brilliant optics that deliver crisp images in any lighting condition.
Specifications
- Reticle: 3 MOA
- Material: Aluminum
- Adjustment Click Value: 1 MOA
- Total Adjustment Range: 70+ MOA
- Weight: 3.6 oz
- Brightness Levels: 11
- Length: 2.5 in
Next, is the Bushnell TRS-25 Trophy Series Red Dot Sight. This optic suits you if you are looking for a reliable, user-friendly, and affordable red dot sight for a variety of firearms.
Designed with durability in mind, the red dot sight features a robust construction to stand the test of time. Additionally, the housing is fully waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof. This makes it resilient in various weather conditions and rugged environments.
As outstanding as the build quality is so is the battery life. With one CR2032 battery, its excellent battery life is capable of powering the sight for extended periods, even when used frequently. Additionally, the controls are simple and intuitive, with easy windage and elevation adjustments that hold zero well, even after extended firing sessions.
Well, that’s not all. The 3 MOA dot is bright and sharp, providing a clear point of aim that remains visible even in bright daylight, thanks to 11 brightness settings that let you adjust to any lighting condition. Over and above that, the amber-bright optics enhance contrast, making it easier to spot targets quickly.
Pros
- Crisp reticle with 11 brightness settings
- Excellent build quality
- Budget-friendly
- Easy windage and elevation adjustments
Cons
- Comparatively short battery life
6) Aimpoint Micro H-2 2 MOA Red Dot Sight
Unmatched quality and reliability make the Aimpoint Micro H-2 RDS one of the best turkey hunting red dots. Equipping your firearm with this reflex sight will help you acquire unrivaled accuracy and the brightest images possible to enhance your shooting experience.
Specifications
- Reticle: 2 MOA
- Weight: 4.6 oz
- Brightness Levels: 12
- Size (L x W x H): 79 x 45 x 48 mm / 3.1 x 1.8 x 1.9 in
- Battery Life: 50,000 Hours
The Aimpoint Micro H-2 2 MOA Red Dot Sight is a robust, high-quality sight designed for speedy target acquisition. It is made with ease of use in mind to accommodate hunters of all levels.
As one of the best turkey hunting red dots, the sight is built for rugged use in all hunting fields. It is fully waterproof and shockproof to withstand harsh environmental conditions.
Furthermore, the sight has a solid aluminum housing and is both lightweight and durable, making it easy to carry without compromising performance.
With its 2 MOA dot size, it provides a fine reticle for precision shooting at medium ranges, but it’s also easy to acquire for fast target acquisition in close-quarters situations.
On top of that, there are 12 brightness settings for you to adjust the reticle intensity to match various lighting conditions.
In terms of installation and functionality, the Aimpoint Micro H-2 is compatible with various mounts and is adaptable to many different firearm types.
Additionally, its parallax-free design ensures that the red dot stays in alignment with the target regardless of the shooter’s eye position, resulting in consistent accuracy and performance.
Pros
- Impressive optical clarity
- Long battery life
- Solid aluminum housing
- Parallax-free optical configuration
Cons
- Not compatible with night vision gear
7)Trijicon SRO MOA Red Dot Sight
Experience the thrill of shooting with pure precision by pairing your hunting rifle with a formidable red dot sight. The SRO will boost your accuracy, increase target acquisition speed and deliver crisp images for a wholesome turkey hunting experience.
Specifications
- Reticle: 2.5 MOA
- Weight: 1.6 oz
- Brightness Levels: 8
- Adjustment Click Value: 1 MOA
- Length: 2.2 in
- Battery Life: 3 Years
The Trijicon SRO MOA Red Dot Sight is a remarkable addition to any hunter’s toolkit. It combines innovative design with outstanding performance to take your turkey hunting a notch higher.
With its large, circular lens and impressive field of view, the SRO offers quick target acquisition, which is vital in turkey hunting. The 2.5 MOA dot size strikes a perfect balance, providing precision for both close-quarters engagements and longer-range shooting. Its brightness is also adjustable for easy aiming in various lighting conditions.
Regarding construction, the robust construction is designed to withstand harsh environments, with aluminum housing that is both durable and lightweight. Additionally, the housing is fully waterproof and fog-proof for all-weather use.
This red dot sight also features an intuitive user interface with a side-mounted brightness adjustment for easy operation even while wearing gloves. Additionally, it is compatible with various mounting systems, making it versatile for different firearms.
Pros
- Multi-platform friendly
- Robust and reliable construction
- Crisp 2.5 MOA red dot reticle
- Compatible with suppressor height iron sight
Cons
- Big budget
Further Reading
- Best Red Dots for S&W Victory
- Best Red Dots for Beretta 92X
- Best Ruger 10/22 Red Dot Sights
- Best Beretta M9A4 Red Dot Sights
How to Choose the Best Turkey Hunting Red Dots
Below are the key things to consider when shopping for the best turkey hunting red dots:
Compatibility
Ensure the sight is compatible with your shotgun, rifle, or any other firearm you intend to use. Consider the mounting height and whether you need a specific mount type for installation.
Co-Witnessing
If you plan to use iron sights, check if the red dot can co-witness, allowing you to use both simultaneously.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Look for a robust red dot sight that can withstand rugged hunting environments. A model made with materials like aluminum is typically the best in durability. The best turkey hunting red dots should also be sealed against moisture and fog for hunting in various weather conditions.
Read: Best Tisas PX9 Red Dot Sights
Field of View (FOV)
A wider FOV allows for easier tracking of fast-moving turkeys. Make sure the sight provides a good balance between magnification and peripheral visibility.
Battery Life
Most of the best turkey hunting red dots are battery-powered. Opt for a sight with long battery life, especially if you plan to hunt for extended periods. Some models feature motion-sensing technology that turns off when not in use.
Weight and Size
The size and weight of red dot sights vary from one model to the other. A lightweight sight will help maintain the balance of your firearm and reduce fatigue during long hunts. Consider how the size affects handling and aiming.
Read: Best Red Dots for Beretta APX
Ease of Use
Whether you are a veteran in turkey hunting or just a beginner, look for a sight that is intuitive to operate. Quick adjustments for windage and elevation are essential for on-the-spot changes during a hunt.
Price and Brand Reputation
While there are quality red dot options for turkey hunting at various price points, choose a reputable brand known for reliability and customer support.
With price, set a budget beforehand and look for the red dot sight that not only meets that budget but also has all the features you need to enhance your hunting trips.
What MOA Do You Need?
When choosing a red dot sight for turkey hunting, the minute angle (MOA) of the dot is an important consideration. Here’s a breakdown of what to look for:
Dot Size: A small dot size of 1MOA, 2 MOA, or 3 MOA is often preferred for turkey hunting. This size allows for precise aiming at the head and neck of the turkey while still.
Adjustability: Ensure that the sight has multiple brightness settings for the reticle. This allows for easy adjustments to match your shooting needs, especially if you plan to use it for different types of hunting or distances.
FAQs
Q: What is the Ideal Reticle for Turkey Hunting Red Dots?
It depends on your hunting style and needs. A smaller dot (1-2 MOA) is preferable for precision shots, while a larger dot (3-5 MOA) can be faster for acquiring moving targets.
Q: Can I use a Red Dot Sight at Night or in Low-Light Conditions?
Yes. Many red dot sights are designed with adjustable brightness settings, making them suitable for low-light conditions. However, for nighttime hunting, you will need a sight with night vision compatibility.
Q: What Mounting Options are available for Red Dot Sights on Shotguns?
There are various mounting for red dot sights on shotguns and the most common ones include rail mounts, cantilever mounts, and specific shotgun mounts.
Conclusion
Investing in the best turkey hunting red dots is vital for anyone looking to enhance precision and take their hunting a level higher. All the models we have mentioned in this guide have all the basic features you need to elevate your turkey hunting. Look at the attributes of each model and settle for one that blends best with your hunting.