Optics on firearms aren’t a new idea, though, their popularity on pistols, especially on those being carrying concealed, is a relatively new thing. Before the pistol craze, though, optics have been used on rifles for accuracy at range for roughly 200 years at this point.
What you don’t hear very often, though, is the idea of putting a site, such as a red dot (though, they don’t always use red), on a shotgun, possibly because people think about red dots as being for accuracy over distance while they think of shotguns as being more of a closer range firearm used for damage without as much need for accuracy as a rifle.
One writer, though, thinks that you may want to put an optical site on your shotgun. Travis Pike writes,
Shotguns are perfect for up-close fights, firing multiple pellets with one trigger pull. Adding a red dot sight to a shotgun makes aiming quicker, especially for moving targets. Unlike regular sights, red dots don’t need precise alignment, making them perfect for fast shots. Plus, they’re easier to track between shots, boosting accuracy and speed in close-quarters combat.
While red dots are usually linked with rifles and handguns, they’re gaining popularity for shotguns too. Whether for hunting or defense, a red dot fits a shotgun’s strengths, helping shooters hit targets faster and more accurately. With a bit of practice, using a red dot on a shotgun can enhance your shooting experience, making it a practical option for anyone looking to improve their performance.
Now, in case you’re wondering, Pike’s top recommendation for a red dot for your shotgun is the Holosun 507c.
Of course, you can also choose a more typical rifle optic instead of a pistol optic such as the Holosun.
What are your thoughts, though? Do you like the idea of putting an optical sight on your shotgun? Comment below and tell us.
I have a SIG Romeo 5 on my semiauto shotgun. I like it, it works well. But don’t put a cheap optic on a shotgun. It will teach you the meaning of cheap in short order. Also, make sure you zero the optic with slugs at 35 yards or more. Find a low recoil, decent quality slug, Federal is a good choice. Get a bunch of them. When you need them, you’ll have them. The zero will work fine for 00 buck also. But once you reach C zone you’ll most likely want to switch to slugs, so you’ll be prepared. Also, get a decent tactical-style (18″ barrel with cylinder or improved cylinder choke) shotgun. Don’t use something with a long barrel that uses a more restrictive choke for self-defense.