Sight for a 12 gauge shotgun. Collimator sights for smoothbore weapons

A device that is useful for fans of sports shooting and professional hunters is a red dot sight. With its help, the effectiveness of conventional weapons increases and shooting becomes more accurate. In other words: a red dot sight is a proven way to improve a weapon.

Let's consider red dot sights mounted on 12 gauge. After installation, the beam will be aimed at the target. And this means: more efficient preparation, and fast and accurate shooting. The device is such that the shooter's eye is located far enough away from him, and the likelihood of injury due to recoil is minimized.

The collimator sight is also very popular among novice hunters - after all, they get an excellent assistant that constantly trains their accuracy. And people with vision problems feel more confident and achieve better results when using this device.

The sights discussed here are optical devices with electronic filling. Most of the mass-produced products of this type have a single multiplicity (i.e., officially, these are devices with low magnification). The tag is designed onto a lens located in the front of the device. The appearance of the marks can be different (dot, dot in a circle, crossed lines, or squares). It is advisable to use different types of tags for targets located at different distances (less than 100 meters, up to 400 meters and over 400 meters). You can select either the red or green label option. Another advantage is that this type of sights does not block the view and provides a clear image.

Video: Collimator sights— the shooter’s main tool for working at short distances

Types of sights

The brand of the scope also determines what type of illumination it has - active or passive. When the active method is selected, energy is taken from a compact battery. It is advisable to use the active mode in adverse weather conditions, as well as at night. The mark is projected exclusively for the right eye. The passive brand is not distinguished by either brightness or contrast; it can only be used in good lighting (during the day).

Manufacturers now offer two types of aiming devices: those that look like tubes, or those in the form of a frame with a lens in the front part. The main components of the tube are an LED emitter and several lenses (usually 2). If we compare this device with the variation open type, then it is somewhat larger, but next to standard optical solutions it looks more compact and weighs less. Such tubes are produced in a durable casing, which is designed to protect all elements from sudden shaking during shooting. Such weapons are usually used when shooting from a securely unfixed position, so the closed version of the 12-gauge red dot sight is not very convenient for this.

Devices of the open variety have the advantage of light weight and decent visibility. But if it drips at least light rain, then their use is very problematic. Sometimes a halogen sight is also used, although professionals disagree on this issue, classifying it as a separate type of equipment. At first impression it is similar to an open variation frame. But the brand is projected onto the output screen using a laser beam. This plate-shaped screen is easy to change if weather conditions require it. Neither fog nor precipitation is an obstacle to using such a device.

How to use

Consoles that can be quickly changed are the preferred location for mounting the sighting device. If the need arises, such a device can be quickly removed and the movement for game can be resumed. You can use this device to fire from a moving car or shoot at rapidly moving targets. If fire is fired from an automatic weapon, then collimator sights are installed in the side of the receiver. Severe frost is the enemy of red dot sights, because... under its influence, the power supply may cease to perform its functions.

About red dot sights produced in Japan

If we take into account that most products (whatever type they are) are made in China, then for connoisseurs of special quality, the Hakko BED brand collimator sights, which are manufactured in Japan, will be of interest. When buying a Hakko sight, you can be sure that it was made in Japan, and from Japanese components. The construction is extremely durable, designed to last for many years of service. The excellent optical characteristics of these products are confirmed by experienced hunters. The buyer can choose: closed or open versions of the product. Closed devices have 11 levels of illumination. Those who have tried these products in action, including extreme conditions, they say that the sights really hold up strong blows, are not affected by heavy precipitation. And to prevent fogging, the inside is filled with gas. The recoil from 12-gauge rifles is not at all terrible for the Hakko red dot sight. The distance from the shooter's eye when using the Hakko does not matter significantly (although it is better to keep it at a minimum distance of 100 mm).

What is the best holographic sight?

When asked which reflex sight is preferable, experts who have tried many options say that this is the EOTech produced in the States. They make it based on a sight used in the army. Such open-type devices differ from their closest competitors in that their component is a laser optical device. Large selection adjusting the brightness of the mark (21 stages in total). This ensures accurate shooting even in adverse weather. For those who want to hunt in any conditions, there are also models with a thermal imager and night vision. EOTech uses a sophisticated brand projection system. It is enabled to avoid the parallax effect. Practice shows that even mechanical damage does not affect the operation of this device.

The automatic shutdown mode is used, which gives a significant operating time. Can be programmed for either 4 or 8 hours. Other advantages: compactness, lightness. Recommended for use on 12-gauge shotguns. The batteries used are standard AA batteries, which can be purchased at your local store or ordered online. You can replace them in a minute, without any complicated actions, without subsequent shooting. The disadvantages of such high-quality overseas products include only the high cost (for sophisticated models - 60 thousand rubles and more).

Another interesting offer from America

Another Sightmark red dot sight is also from the states, but its cost is noticeably lower than EOTech. But this does not mean that it is of unworthy quality. It is enough to download that the Yukon holding that produces it is a regular supplier for American cops and the army. These devices can be easily installed on 12-gauge weapons and have 7 brightness levels. They weigh little and are quite reliable. Some of them are produced under license in China.

About domestic goods

If we talk about collimator sights produced by domestic manufacturers, then the only option is “Cobra” (since we don’t make other similar devices). They install it using fasteners " dovetail" on the Bekas weapon. The shooter can choose from: 16 gradations of brightness, 4 types of marks with the ability to remember data about them. At a distance of up to 600 meters, ballistics corrections apply. Owners of such devices say that after intense shooting (multiple shots), the settings are not lost, and there is no noticeable deformation in the seat. Good aiming is guaranteed with both one and two eyes. Disadvantages include weight above average and height. Overall, a very reliable and recommended product.

Video: Red dot sight testing

Installation process

How to attach the device to a weapon is a question that worries buyers no less than the choice of model itself. With the exception of Saiga and Bekas, most types of smoothbore shotguns do not initially require mounting of other devices using consoles. Therefore, the hunter will have to make a choice from those technical solutions that at the moment exist. And there are not many of them, either dovetails or bases (another name for “planks”).

Most often, a collimator sight is installed on Wever model rails, with the addition of seats. If the scope has mounting rings, it can be dovetail mounted. In addition, there are models designed to be mounted directly on the sighting bar. Such electronic devices are small in size and light in weight. For example, high-quality Docter sights. The light mark of such a device is clearly visible on snow and cloudy skies. But such an option is only affordable for wealthy people, because... maybe even more expensive than the gun itself.

About unreliable options that should be avoided

Sometimes domestic “masters” install a Weaver landing even on a dovetail. Special adapters are made for this. Moreover, there are no standard devices - each time a special approach is needed. For example, on the steel console of a device manufactured in Volgograd (VOMZ), you can place another sighting device with various mounting options. But the collimator sight designed for the 16-caliber IZH-27 can only be placed on a sighting bar with a maximum width of 7 mm. Such designs are not recommended for use not only because of the increased weight of the weapon, but also because its alignment is disrupted. Such adapters weigh 100 grams or even more. Those who have already used such homemade mounts in practice say that they have little reliability and after a dozen shots they already begin to become loose. The optical device can be installed with minimal weight. But according to calculations, for the IZH-27, the collimator sight should weigh within 90 grams.

Decent frame for top optical instruments

If you already have money for an optical device high class, then it makes no sense to save money when installing it; then the money invested in the device itself will pay off in full due to the quality of shooting. During installation, it is worth remembering not only about the reliable fixation of a fairly massive sighting device, but also that both the bar and bolted connections must be immune to recoil loads. Moreover, for a long time. All sorts of homemade devices, no matter how much they are praised by the authors, they are not suitable here - there is no confidence in their reliability. Only proprietary developments are suitable for guaranteed reliable installation of a 12-gauge collimator sight, and they can be easily purchased in online stores.

When choosing a product, make sure that its outline is the same as that of the receiver. Also look at the thickness of the box: it should be sufficient for cutting a hole and for cutting at least 3 turns. For cutting use prof. equipment.

How does the shooting go?

Using 2 rotating drum regulators, which come complete with most similar devices, make adjustments in 2 planes. Select the target that the charge should hit (at a distance of 35-50 meters); for the selected distance, remember the position of the controls. There is also an opinion that you can use only “cold shooting”. This means that a laser pointer is used. But with such shooting, the desired result is not always achieved, because In hunting rifles, the axes of the barrel and chamber do not always coincide. To zero the chamber, use cold adjustment. When installing a 12-gauge red dot sight, you should not forget about the adjustment when shooting handheld and about significant recoil.

Video: Zeroing the collimator sight on the IZH-94.

There is no clear opinion among users about which scope model is the best. It all depends on the conditions in which it will be used, on the skill of the hunter, on what weapon it will be mounted on, and what ammunition will be used. It is also said that open guns are preferable on 12 gauge shotguns. The choice also depends on how much the hunter is willing to pay.

For hunters and sports shooting enthusiasts who want to increase the efficiency of their weapons and improve combat accuracy, a collimator is best suited for “tuning”. It is the collimator sight for 12 gauge fishing weapons that is the most rational option for an optical device. Aiming is done by simply pointing the marker beam at the target, which significantly increases the speed of preparation and shooting itself. The shooter's eye is at a safe distance from the device, which eliminates injury from recoil. And for novice hunters best assistant and it’s impossible to imagine. Such sights provide comfortable shooting for people with limited

Collimator sight for smoothbore weapons

This type of sight is an electronic optical device. Refers to low frequency devices. For most production samples it is equal to one. The brand is projected onto the front lens (output screen) of the device. The mark itself can have different shapes: be in the form of a circle, a square or intersecting lines. Each option is designed for a specific fire distance: up to 100 meters, up to 400 and more than 400 meters. The color of the stamp can be red or green. Ease of use lies in the fact that the device does not block the target, transmits light and transmits a clear image.

Types and types of sights

Depending on the brand of the device, lighting methods can be active, if they use energy, or passive. Active ones allow you to shoot accurately in the dark and in bad weather conditions. Active stereoscopic ones project a mark for only one right eye. Passive ones can only be used during daylight hours; their brand is not bright and does not have contrast.

Sights are produced in two types: in the form of a tube, resembling appearance optics, or in the form of a frame with a front lens. The tube consists of an LED emitter and two or more lenses. This device is more compact and lighter compared to classical optics, but slightly larger than an open-type device. The advantage is good visibility of the tag in bright sunlight. All elements are reliably protected by a durable case from shaking during shooting. A closed red dot sight for 12 gauge is not entirely convenient, since this type of weapon is most often used when shooting from an unstable position.

Open type devices have best review when shooting and significantly less weight. However, it is difficult to use them even during light precipitation. A variation is the halogen sight, although some experts classify it as separate type equipment. Externally, it resembles the frame of an open device. However, the brand image is projected onto the output screen by a laser beam. Depending on hunting conditions, the screen plate can be quickly replaced. Can be used in any weather and in fog.

Features of use

Application practice shows that the sighting device is best installed on a quick-release console. If necessary, the equipment can be quickly dismantled and the pursuit of game can continue. The device allows you to fire from a moving vehicle, as well as hit fast-moving objects. On automatic weapons, it is usually mounted on the side of the receiver. Red dot sights are very sensitive to low temperatures. In severe frost, the battery may fail and the entire device will fail.

Real Japanese quality

One of the most common are Hakko BED red dot sights. They are produced by the Japanese company Tokyo Scope Co., LTD. This means a lot considering that almost all goods are manufactured in China. Brands from almost all industries have their production facilities in the Middle Kingdom. Hakko red dot sights are assembled down to the last screw in Japan. The products are distinguished by high optical characteristics and structural strength. Available in both closed and open versions. Both provide a choice of one of four labels. In closed devices, 11 levels of illumination can be used.

Owners who use these devices confirm that the devices are indeed waterproof and shockproof, and the gas filling of the internal space prevents fogging. The Hakko collimator sight is highly reliable and can withstand the recoil of 12-gauge shotguns. The device requires installation on a Weaver mounting base. Although any Hakko BED collimator sight is not critical to the distance from the shooter’s eye: the most acceptable distance from the pupil to the exit screen is at least 100 mm.

The Ultimate Holographic Sight

Many experts and professional shooters recognize the American holographic collimator sight EOTech as the best example. This is a direct descendant of a military product. The difference between these open-type devices and their counterparts is that they have a laser optical device (the mark is recorded in the form of a hologram and illuminated by a laser), which provides considerable advantages. Firstly, the brightness of the mark can be adjusted over a wide range - the variator offers 21 levels. This makes it possible to fire in any weather conditions. Some samples are equipped with thermal imaging and night vision functions. And secondly, the EOTech reflex sight has practically no. This was achieved thanks to a complex brand projection system. It is visible even in rain, snow and heavy pollution. The device remains operational in case of mechanical damage.

Long operating time is achieved through automatic shutdown. The device can be programmed for 4 or 8 hours. An important advantage is the small size and curb weight. The device is very convenient when used on 12-gauge shotguns. Many devices use standard batteries: AA batteries. Batteries can be found in any store. Their replacement occurs through simple manipulation and takes no more than a minute. When changing batteries, zeroing the red dot sight is not required. Overseas products are very expensive. Top models cost over 60 thousand rubles.

Another American product

The Sightmark red dot sight is significantly cheaper, but that doesn't mean it's low quality. Sightmark is a subsidiary of Yukon Holding, which produces products for law enforcement and the Department of Defense. The products are mostly open-type, have up to 7 levels of brightness adjustment and are designed for installation on smooth-bore weapons up to 12 gauge. Dovetail type mounting device, strip has a width of 11 mm. Some samples are mounted on a Weaver/Picatini base. The sights are lightweight and highly reliable. A significant part of the products is produced in China.

Domestic is no worse

In 2009, the Cobra collimator sight appeared on the market in the EKP-8-21 version. This is the first and so far the only digital optical device for civilian use. The open type device is intended primarily for installation on semi-automatic weapons of the Bekas series. The Russian sight is mounted on a dovetail mount. The electronic circuit allows you to select four types of marks, 16 brightness options, and also remember information about the type of mark and the brightness of the glow. The maximum range of ballistic corrections is up to 600 meters. The Cobra collimator sight is highly reliable. Owners note that after several dozen shots, the settings are saved and the seat is not deformed. Moreover, aiming in low light conditions improves over time. Some owners complain that the device has significant weight and height. The device can be used with the rail of MP-251, IZH-18, IZH-27, IZH-94, and “Taiga” shotguns. You can aim with one or two eyes.

How to mount?

An important issue that overshadows the choice of the device itself is the method of attachment to the weapon. Most samples smoothbore weapons does not provide any standard fixtures or consoles for installing additional devices. The exceptions are domestic “Saiga”, “Bekas”, pump-action shotguns and some models intended for self-defense. The hunter should search for himself technical solution. The choice is limited: dovetail and bases (also called slats) Weaver and Picatini. The mounting of the collimator sight in the vast majority of samples involves placement on Weaver rails using integrated seats. Only sights equipped with special mounting rings can be mounted on a dovetail device. Some models attach directly to the rifle's sight rail. As a rule, such electronic optics have small dimensions and weight. These include the well-known compact Docter sights. The light mark of this device is clearly visible both in the snow and even against the sky. However, their cost may exceed the price of the weapon itself.

Not very reliable

Domestic craftsmen install a seat under Weaver and on a dovetail. For this purpose, special adapters are made. When choosing transition devices, each sample requires an individual approach. Thus, the Vologda Optical-Mechanical Plant produces a product of the same name (VOMZ). The steel console is designed to accommodate an additional sighting device of any type of mount. But, for example, 16-gauge can only be placed on a ventilated sighting bar up to 7 mm wide. This design leads to significant weighting of the weapon and disruption of its alignment. The weight of the adapter alone is more than 100 grams. According to user reviews, such a mount is not durable and begins to loosen after a dozen shots. Alternatively, install an optical device that is not too heavy. Based on this, the same collimator sight on the IZH-27 should weigh no more than 90 grams. What can we say about more powerful weapon and the corresponding technical means?

An expensive stone needs a worthy setting

If you purchase an expensive optical device, there is no point in saving money on its installation. The bar and bolted connections must have a sufficient margin of strength to not only fix the relatively heavy sighting device, but also withstand recoil loads over a long period of operation. A 12 gauge red dot sight must be mounted only using specially designed standard mounting accessories. Dovetail and Weaver/Picatini trims are available in a large variety for free sale and in online stores.

It is necessary to select a product that follows the contour of the receiver. Also, the thickness of the body of the box itself should allow drilling a hole and cutting at least three turns of thread. It is best to cut threads using professional equipment. You should also take into account the distance from the eye at which the collimator sight will be located. Reviews from experienced owners indicate the need for additional sealant treatment of the threads and the surface of the junction of the console itself and the plane of the receiver. All other installation methods are money thrown away.

Optical zeroing

Like any other optical device, after mounting on a gun, the scope requires zeroing. The shooter must have a clear idea of where the bullet or shot will hit at a distance of 35-50 meters. Most devices are equipped with regulators. In this case, fine tuning is carried out by adjusting in two planes using two rotating drum regulators. For a certain distance, you should remember the position of the controls. Many people believe that the so-called cold shooting is enough. In this case, ammunition with a red dot sight is used. Zeroing in a red dot sight may not give the desired result. This is due to the fact that sometimes in hunting weapons there is a mismatch between the axes of the barrel and the chamber. Cold alignment can turn into zeroing the chamber. It is necessary to take into account the correction when shooting handheld, as well as noticeable recoil, since a 12-gauge red dot sight is most often mounted.

Another way to adjust the optics is by fixing the barrel in a special machine or vice. The barrel is aimed at a fixed point, and after that the sight is adjusted. Cold shooting can be replaced by a procedure of several dozen test shots. Any optics requires painstaking adjustment, including a red dot sight. Reviews that experts post on thematic forums often contain advice to fire several series of four single shots. Based on the results of hits on the target of a particular series, the average point of impact and its deviation from the center of the target are recorded. The sight is adjusted and after that - the next series of shots. And so on until a satisfactory result is obtained.

When shooting bullets, adjustment is carried out using the same type of cartridges and at the same distance that will be used in real conditions. However, in practice this is impossible. It is best to zero the device for use at several likely firing distances, and record the results of hits on the object with notes in a notebook. At the same time, corrections of angular indicators proportional to the firing distance are recorded.

A device that directs the beam of the aiming mark into the shooter's eye parallel to the rays that form the image of the terrain in the sight lens. Therefore, no matter how the shooter moves his eye relative to the lens, the position of the aiming mark will still correspond to the aiming line. This feature significantly speeds up the search for a target through the sight and the alignment of the aiming mark with the outline of the target.

When choosing such a high-precision device, a red dot sight is usually compared with traditional optics. When selecting a sight for the most common type of hunting weapon - 12-gauge shotguns - the collimator has the following important advantages:

The range of an accurate shot from a smooth-bore weapon is limited to a distance of 100 - 120 m. At such a distance, the ability to zoom in on the target is not needed, which means that the characteristics of the optical sight are clearly redundant. Or, in other words, the scope is more accurate than the shotgun itself. And since the characteristics of a complex optical sight are redundant, there is no need to overpay for them. The characteristics of the collimator sight are fully consistent with the capabilities of the weapon itself.
When hunting with a smooth-bore weapon, shooting in most cases is done offhand. The time that can be spent aiming under such conditions is minimal, and hesitation in aiming will almost certainly result in a miss. The aiming speed through a collimator is much higher than the aiming speed with traditional optics, so the choice should be made in favor of a collimator.
Aiming through a collimator does not deprive the shooter of the opportunity to use both eyes, and the narrow frame of an open collimator sight does not interfere with observing the movement of the target. This allows you to quickly adjust the sight when shooting at a moving target, for example, flying game. An optical sight often does not provide such an opportunity.
Shooting from a 12-gauge shotgun is usually carried out with shot ammunition, which means that in order to hit, it is not necessary to align the aiming line as accurately as possible. Consequently, aiming through the collimator will be quite effective and fast.

What to look for when choosing a scope?

Today you can find a wide selection of collimators on the shelves of hunting stores. Sights for every taste and budget, built on various designs and made of different materials, domestic and foreign... But how to choose the appropriate option for 12 gauge among this variety?

First of all, you should pay attention to the characteristics of your weapon. 12 gauge has a powerful cartridge, and therefore greater recoil. Shooting from such weapons is usually carried out offhand, and the weapon itself has quite a heavy weight. Knowing these characteristics, it is clear that when choosing a collimator you should pay attention to the following:

Sight type. Open collimators with a single lens enclosed in a thin frame are best suited for 12-gauge smoothbore weapons. They provide the fastest aiming and are comfortable when tracking a moving target or quickly carrying the device. But closed collimators are better left for other weapons.
Mounting type. There is diversity here beyond your wildest expectations. Many scopes are sold complete with mounts, while for others (for example), you will have to purchase a mounting base separately. Before purchasing, you should check which type of mount will fit your weapon. Or bring the gun to the store so you can try on the scope before purchasing and make sure it can be installed.
Type of aiming mark. Modern sights can have one mark (most often a dot), or several switchable ones - a dot, crosshair, circle and their combinations. The diameter of the reticle dot is expressed in MOA. For a 12 gauge shotgun, sights with large dots (at least 7 MOA) or a circle mark are best.
Reticle brightness. As a rule, a good scope should have at least 5 reticle brightness levels. But here we should proceed from real need: If you plan to hunt at dusk, then this variety of brightness modes will be really useful. But for hunting during the day, fewer adjustment modes may be sufficient.
Sight power supply. The batteries must be reliable enough and not run out at low temperatures. It is believed that button batteries are quickly discharged in the cold, so during a winter hunt you can suddenly be left without a scope due to a dead battery. But modern high-quality lithium batteries do not have this drawback.
Price. Usually the price of a high-quality red dot sight is quite high. There are many options for cheap Chinese-made collimators, but the possibility of their effective use on 12 gauge is extremely doubtful. A powerful 12-gauge cartridge creates high recoil, and low-quality cheap sights are very poorly protected from this. Therefore, such a “high-precision element” may lose its settings after each shot.

Review of 12 gauge red dot sights

. Very high quality collimator German made. The advantages of the sight are high-quality Zeiss-class optics, automatic adjustment of the brightness of the aiming mark, very compact size and low weight. It is worth considering that Docter sights do not have brackets for attaching to weapons, so the sighting base will have to be purchased separately. This makes the sight more versatile, but forces you to spend extra money on purchasing a sighting base.
. Inexpensive scope, well suited for hunting in winter conditions. Even with cold weather The manufacturer guarantees the absence of negative effects such as a decrease in the brightness of the aiming mark or premature battery discharge. The device weighs little and withstands recoil or accidental impact well. This makes the scope popular among outdoor hunting enthusiasts.
. Another device from SightMark. Its main advantages are its compactness and wide viewing angle. Thanks to its small size and compact mounting base, this scope will not snag on branches or grass. Its lens is enclosed in a narrow body, which practically does not interfere with the sight when carrying it.
An affordable wide-angle collimator, very convenient for hunting moving game (for example, a hare). The aiming mark can be adjusted in brightness and size. The weight of the sight is small, and the characteristics are quite sufficient for effective hunting. The sight withstands recoil well, so it can be mounted even on 12 gauge.
The Redring Mark II is a very high quality scope for 12 gauge shooting. This device was developed by the coach of the Swedish skeet shooting team. The aiming mark is made in the form of a ring, the diameter of which very well corresponds to the diameter of the shotgun at a 100-meter distance. The sight holds recoil perfectly and provides greater accuracy in hitting fast-flying game. The only drawback is the high price.

Thus, a properly selected red dot sight will be quite effective when used with 12 gauge hunting weapons. But when choosing a scope, you should carefully study its characteristics and mounting method.

All experienced hunters and those involved in sports shooting recommend choosing a collimator to “pump up” your gun. It is the collimator sight for 12-gauge smooth-bore weapons that is a rational option. With its help, the speed of preparation for a shot is significantly increased - you just need to point the marker beam at the target. Thanks to a special device, the shooter's eye is at a safe distance from the sight. This eliminates the possibility of injury from recoil. Collimator – indispensable assistant for a novice hunter or if the shooter does not have good eyesight.

Using a collimator for smoothbore weapons (rather than traditional optics) is preferable. First of all, you should take into account the fact that any shotgun has a limited firing range. Even if the charge is amplified, this limitation will be about 120 m. Multiple magnification at such a distance is not required, and therefore optics will be superfluous.

It is also important to consider the method of firing a shotgun. As a rule, fishing is carried out by walking, that is, the hunter shoots offhand. Any delay in such a matter will lead to failure. Therefore, an optical sight will be useless here.

Classification

The Aimpoint Micro H1 case design has good water resistance

A red dot sight is an ideal option for a hunting shotgun. But before you purchase it, you should know that such “tuning” has several varieties in terms of characteristics.

Energy consumption type

Relatively this parameter, modern collimator sights are:

With removable batteries. Such batteries are installed in almost all modern sights of this type. Due to the fact that such designs operate on batteries, their aiming mark is characterized by continuous burning. This is a convenient and practical type of sight, which allows for convenient removal of the battery - without dismantling the entire structure.
Working offline. Such designs have a built-in battery, the resource of which is enough for several years of operation of the device. For example, modern military-type collimators can operate for 5-8 years using a standard battery. Such devices are not afraid of complex weather conditions, since their housing reliably protects the battery from external influence. Such designs contain fiber optic front sights.

Appearance of the case

The body design of collimators from different manufacturers may be different. However, there are two main design options:

Closed. This collimator, installed on smoothbore shotguns, looks like a standard optical sight, only slightly shortened. Such designs require the presence of several lenses. They are perfectly protected from negative influence environment and are distinguished by darkening the aiming area. A feature of closed-type models is their compactness. At the same time, they are very durable and can withstand very strong recoil, which makes it possible to install such structures on large-caliber weapons.
Open. This variety sights have a relatively simple design, which determines their low cost. Open type models can be installed on almost any smoothbore weapon. It is optimal to use them for hunting under standard conditions. Since they have only one lens installed, they are called single-lens. The main advantage of open collimator sights is the ease of shooting from them: the device is small and has light weight, and therefore the view is not blocked by the sight body, and the image from the lens is clear and undistorted.

Mark projection method

The collimator has proven itself well when shooting at a fast-moving target

A very important parameter that is often neglected by novice hunters. However, the accuracy of the shot often depends on the way the mark is projected. Let's look at the types of sights regarding this parameter in more detail:

Classic. On the front of the device there is a lens onto which the tag is projected. It can be in the shape of a square, a dot or a dot in a circle, or crossed straight lines.
Holographic. This is an open-type sight that is ideal for smooth-bore weapons. The aiming mark here is located on a hologram and is visualized by a laser beam. Both three-dimensional and conventional aiming reticles can be applied to such a mark. The advantage is that they are always visible to the hunter, no matter the level of illumination at the location. In addition, they are always located in the center, even if the shooter is looking from different angles. Holographic collimators are more expensive when compared to other models.
Dioptric. They are characterized by the fact that they provide high shot accuracy, which is achieved due to a large aiming line. Also, in diopter models, the combination of the front sight and the aperture-hole is simplified, which increases the speed of aiming. This makes them an excellent choice for recreational hunters.

There are several options based on the type of fastening: dovetail, Weaver or ventilated. On the market you can find models with laser designators, with magnification or with interchangeable aiming marks.

Benefits of use

The variety of models described above combines several important advantages. Among them:

Simplicity and high speed aiming. If in an open sight you need to compare the rear sight and the front sight, and then the target and the rear sight, then with a collimator everything is simpler. The mark, which is reflected from the lens, combines both the front sight and the rear sight. Due to this, the human eye focuses faster, making it easier to shoot.
The dimensions of the target are not distorted. If we compare the collimator and optical models, the first one has minimal distortion. From the school physics course we know that any magnifying glass distorts objects, especially lenses. To notice this, just look at its edges. The collimator on smoothbore guns does not magnify the image, and the lens itself has a concave shape to reflect the beam.
Provides a wide field of view. A characteristic feature of the sight is that you can aim without closing your other eye, which is especially important when using 12 gauge. In this case, the device body disappears from view, only the aiming mark remains in the field of view. This means that the view is almost limitless.
The weight of the device is significantly less compared to other varieties. This is necessary not only to reduce the overall weight of the gun. The lightness of the collimator allows the hunter to aim faster and shoot more accurately, without having to focus on holding the weapon level.

Based on this, we can conclude that the red dot sight is excellent for short-range shooting at large and fast game.

How to choose a collimator sight for smooth-bore weapons

When choosing, you should focus on newer and more advanced models

When choosing a red dot sight for a 12-gauge shotgun, you should pay attention to open-type models. Their advantages are that they are compact and provide a really good overview.

If we are talking about closed sights, then you can only use holographic models, but in no case the old-style designs, in which it was necessary to close one eye to aim.

Mounting type

On modern market There are quite a few sights equipped with universal clamps. And they should be given priority first. This is due to two reasons:

In this case, you do not have to try on a scope for your gun in the store. Therefore, you can leave the weapon at home and not worry that the purchased device will not fit it.
Very often, hunters change weapons. This is explained by the fact that new and more modern models. In addition, over time, the needs of a particular hunter may change. By purchasing a scope with a universal mount, you will not have to change it when changing weapons.

Power supply

Most experts agree that the battery is the most preferable in this case. The disadvantage of battery-type elements is their high sensitivity to low temperatures, which has an extremely negative effect on the functioning of the sight when used in winter.

Modern batteries do not have this drawback, so the hunting process in winter will be more convenient when using these batteries.

Brightness adjustment limits

Sightmark panoramic red dot sight

It should be remembered that in good sights At least 5 replaceable tags are provided. Such sights can be successfully used in low light conditions, but they are also somewhat more expensive than simple models.

Adjusting the brightness will be an excellent option for sitting. However, when conducting walking hunting in the daytime, this function is not useful.

Types of tags

Different collimator manufacturers can equip their devices with different types of marks. The most popular options are:

single point;
intersecting lines;
dot in a circle;
triangle, etc.

When choosing a scope, experts advise trying each of the options described above. In this case there is no concept best choice, since each hunter has his own concept of convenience. In this case, it would be useful to clarify the specific distance at which a particular sight will be effective.

Rating of the best models

The device is not afraid of falls and shocks

In addition to reviewing the main characteristics of modern red dot sights, it would be useful to consider the most popular models of such designs. By choosing one of the devices described below, you can be completely confident in its high quality and reliability.

So, the best models of red dot sights for 12-gauge smoothbore weapons are:

Sightmark SM13001-DT. This open-type sight is compact in size and weighs only 60 grams. Despite its small dimensions, this is a serious optical device, since it has impressive adjustment capabilities and a capacious battery designed for 270 hours of use. If you are looking for a collimator for a 12-gauge shotgun, then this option will be an excellent option for hunting hares and ducks.
Sightmark SM13003B-DT. Good option for those people who prefer active hunting. If you are looking for a reliable and durable aiming device, then this model will appeal to you. The device is protected from impacts, but at the same time remains light and compact, without weighing down the gun. Long battery life is ensured even in severe frosts. At maximum illumination, the battery can last more than a day.
An excellent choice is also the SIGHTMARK SM13001-(6MM-8MM) model, which can be immediately installed on a 6mm-8mm ventilated strip. This collimator significantly saves time on its installation because... sold completely assembled with a quick-release adapter for shotguns with a vented rib of 12, 16, 20 gauge.
Leapers SCP RD40RGW-A. The collimator is small in size, the main difference of which is its removable mount. Therefore, it can be easily transported in a special case, having been installed on the gun upon arrival at the shooting range. Depending on the conditions of use, you can choose one of two colors of the reticle: green for a winter or autumn forest and red, which will be clearly visible against the greenery.
Leapers SCP-DS3028W. The sight is a closed type, the main feature of which is shock resistance. The model is perfectly tuned and designed for quick and easy installation on the Weaver bar. The lens installed in this model cannot be called large, but nevertheless, it is capable of providing an excellent field of view.
Sightmark SM13003B Box. A reliable and functional open-type collimator, which was specially designed for 12-gauge shotguns. Its light weight (only 108 grams) will not disturb the balance of your smoothbore, while you will be provided with a good panoramic view. Using different types of aiming bars will allow you to make accurate shots not only with standard bullets, but also with Sightmark SM13001 buckshot. This collimator perfectly withstands strong recoil, but at the same time has a small landing base, which means you will not cling to branches while moving through the forest. It should be noted the successful design of the lens, which has thin edges, providing the hunter with a convenient process of tracking the target.
Aimpoint MicroH1. This model is rightfully considered one of the best in its class. This sight is highly resistant to recoil, it is reliable, but at the same time easy to use and lightweight. Thus, the device was able to absorb the advantages of open and closed structures. It can be easily installed on any type of weapon that has a ventilated rail. The capacious battery performs well in low temperatures. The case is waterproof.
Docter Sight III. An open type collimator equipped with a specially designed mount. A special feature of the model is the automatic adjustment of the brightness of the mark, depending on the lighting.

Brightness can be adjusted in automatic mode

The price category of the device is also an important selection criterion. But you shouldn’t give preference to Chinese replicas for the sake of economy. The experience of hunters shows that it is better to purchase an original Sightmark than even a good copy of Docter.

Choosing a red dot sight for a smoothbore weapon can be another challenge. To purchase a truly high-quality and versatile device, you need to pay attention to a number of parameters, which were mentioned above. It should be understood that ultimately the choice should depend on your personal preferences and requirements. Ease of use is the main criterion, followed by reliability and durability.

For those who literally cannot imagine their life without weapons and hunting, the question is: how to choose the right scope is very relevant. This is not surprising, because regardless of whether the hunter is tracking a wild boar, a hare, or any other game, this element performs many functions that allow the hunter to aim and make accurate shots. The choice of a scope should be made based on many factors, and you need to approach the choice as intelligently as possible. First you should find out what types of sighting devices exist for hunting.

collimator;
optical;
laser;
night vision scopes.

Each of the listed types of sights has both its advantages and disadvantages, as well as operating features and varying effectiveness. Below is more detailed information about each of them.

Collimator sights for hunting

Such models are used for driven hunting, usually for shooting at short distances. The main advantage of a red dot sight for shotguns is its versatility. Due to the peculiarities of its design, such an optical device can significantly increase efficiency when shooting at moving targets. Also, the collimator sight allows you to freely move your head and change the viewing angle without completely losing sight of the animal. Suitable for both wild boar and smaller targets.

A distinctive feature of collimator sights is the presence of an aiming mark with a pronounced bright dot, which appears due to the operation of an LED. Depending on whether any power source is used in the design of the collimator optical device, they are classified into passive and active.

Passive sights do not have a power source and can be used at any time of the day. Active species operate at the expense of a food source.

Besides this, red dot sights for hunting they differ in design features, according to which they are divided into two types: open and closed. Closed models are made in a tube-like body. The optical system and the emitter of the aiming mark are located inside it. Closed collimator sights are characterized by smaller size and weight. The mark is clearly visible even on a very bright sunny day.

In order for shooting to be carried out correctly and accurately, after installing a collimator sight, careful shooting is necessary, especially if a smooth-bore weapon is used for hunting.

Selecting a red dot sight

Collimator sights, as a rule, are chosen for installation on carbines and shotguns for driven hunting of wild boar and other animals. The peculiarity of this method of hunting is that the hunter is constantly moving. The appearance of an animal is always sudden, and therefore aiming and shooting is very fast. Optical devices are not suitable for this type of hunting, since an animal that runs away from the shooter very quickly leaves the field of view. The difference between the collimator version is that it allows you to quickly monitor the environment.

Selecting a red dot sight should be carried out based on the following factors:

availability of nutrients;
device design (open or closed);
its weight, since when shooting offhand the balance of a smoothbore gun should not be disturbed;
type of aiming mark;
types of mounting used (can be found in the documentation included with the sight);
design features of the gun/carbine;
acceptable cost.

These features should definitely be taken into account in order for the selected collimator sight to be characterized high quality and allowed you to aim as accurately as possible.

Optical sights

Optical sights characterized by very high accuracy. This is due to the fact that they use a very complex optical system, which takes into account many various factors. The conditions in which the sight will be used and even the type of hunting weapon on which it is placed are also taken into account.

This type of optics for shotguns is in wide demand and is used by both beginners and experienced hunters. The optical sight will be correctly used for shooting at long distances. In addition, such models allow you to monitor a wild boar or other animal.

Advantages of optical sights:

significant distance, which can be used to fire accurate shots from a hunting weapon;
reliable and durable design;
clear image regardless of weather conditions;
compactness and practicality;
ease of operation.

The disadvantages of optical sights include their higher cost, as well as complex settings that require careful zeroing, especially when shooting at long distances.

Optical sight selection

To select an optical sight for a shotgun or carbine, there are many factors to consider. As a rule, such a sighting device is used for blind hunting, during which the hunter remains in one position for a long time, waiting for the animal to appear.

This method of hunting allows you to aim correctly by carefully choosing the point of entry of the bullet. This makes it possible to kill a wild boar or other large animal with one shot, especially since most often the animal is not aware of the presence of the hunter.

At choosing an optical sight For shotguns, the following features should be taken into account:

Multiplicity. This indicator determines the degree of approach of an object. It can be variable or constant, depending on the ability of the device to zoom in or out of the image. The simplest models have a magnification of 1.5x to 4x and bring closer to no more than 30 meters. Such models are suitable if shooting is carried out from a weapon with a short range. The optimal option for shooting at long distances is from 16x to 30x; such devices allow you to make an accurate shot from a gun or carbine at a distance of more than 600 meters.
Entrance pupil. The diameter of the pupil determines the light sensitivity of the optical sight. If this indicator is high, the hunter will be able to clearly see the prey at a great distance even in very poor lighting, for example, at dusk or in cloudy weather.
Fastening . When choosing optics, it is important to pay attention to the mount with which it is fixed to the weapon. It must be as strong and reliable as possible, since if the sight is poorly secured, it will vibrate during shooting, which can lead to the target being lost from view.
Setting method. In general, there are two groups of scopes, depending on how they are set up. In the first group are sighting devices that are adjusted using special tools. In the second - knobs or regulators, which are directly a structural element of the optical device.
Permeability. It is recommended to purchase waterproof optical sights. They are more convenient to use, since their lenses do not sweat, and moisture does not affect the accuracy of work.
Equipment. It is advisable that the scope be supplied with a protective case or cover, tools, and eye covers.

Laser sights for hunting

Laser designators have only recently begun to become popular among hunters. The main advantage of laser sights is that the duration of aiming for an accurate shot from a weapon is reduced to a minimum. In this case, the hunter does not need to close his eyes, and the risk of losing prey from sight is eliminated.

Laser models are ideal for shooting at short distances. Most often they are used for driven hunting of moving animals, such as wild boar and hare. Some hunters use laser sights for game birds.

Disadvantage of the laser sight The problem is that it is inconvenient to hunt with it during the day, especially if the weather is sunny. The mark that marks the place where the bullet will enter may be completely invisible, and then it will be very difficult to shoot correctly. The same applies to other weather conditions that may affect visibility. In addition, such a device consumes energy, and the battery may drain during tracking. Therefore, in the absence of a spare battery, the situation will result in the hunter losing the aiming aid on his carbine.

Choosing a laser sight for hunting

To choose the right laser sight, the features of such a device should be taken into account. The main requirement for it- hull strength. Obviously, the design of the device must be as reliable as possible in order to withstand the load under any conditions.

Besides this, various conditions applications should not affect the laser sight adjustment. It is important to pay attention to the mechanism for turning the device on and off. It is best to choose models with activation via a button, which is installed on the side of the body of the shotgun or carbine.

Night vision scopes

The night vision scope has a very complex design. The principle of operation is to enhance the brightness of the image, making it visible in the dark. Most modern night vision scopes can operate in two modes: day and night, depending on the time of day, respectively.

This device allows for accurate shooting, both at long distances and at short distances. Many models are equipped with a zoom system, thanks to which you can change the magnification in the lens depending on the conditions and the type of weapon used for hunting.

Among the disadvantages of such models:

very high cost in comparison with other types of sights;
complex design, which may fail if dropped or some other negative external influence.

Choosing a night vision scope

The choice of night vision devices depends on the generation of the device. Differences between generations lie in different design features, which in turn affect the degree of accuracy of shooting from a carbine, as well as the range of conditions in which the sight can be used.

Generations of night vision scopes:

1st generation. It is the most affordable option, but has many disadvantages, including: reduced image clarity, absence protective equipment from external illumination, as well as the small diameter of the lens, which is why the light sensitivity of the device suffers. Besides this, 1st generation NVGs are quite large and have significant weight, which can cause inconvenience during operation.
2nd generation. 2nd generation night vision scopes have an improved design. Most models have a large lens, the diameter of which is 40-60mm, which in turn provides good light sensitivity. The image magnification ratio varies from 3x to 5x. This allows you to view a wild boar or other animal from a great distance, while recording its every movement. Disadvantage - the image may be overexposed in the presence of third-party light sources, for example, the moon.
3rd generation. They are characterized by high-quality image resolution, excellent detail, and clarity. In addition, such night vision scopes have small dimensions, so they do not affect the overall weight of the weapon and its balance. This device allows you to aim correctly even in conditions zero visibility and gives a clear picture of the surroundings, allowing the hunter to fully control the process of tracking prey.

Features to consider when choosing a night vision scope:

lens diameter;
possibility to enlarge the image;
review;
the presence of an automatic focus function;
permission;
device dimensions;
method of fastening.

Generally, night vision scope- this is a universal electronic device that can be chosen correctly only by understanding the intricacies and specifics of this type of optical instrument. Considering the high cost of sights for night vision, the choice should be approached as competently and responsibly as possible.

Conclusion

Hunting scope- this is an important element that makes it possible to aim correctly and accurately, as well as shoot at various distances. It is a must for those who want to successfully hunt wild boar and other animals. The choice of such a device should be made taking into account many features and factors that will directly affect the quantity and quality of trophies obtained during hunting.