Reflex Sights

Reflex Sights are a reflecting device that takes the image and reflects it back to make it clearly visible. Reflex sights are not always magnifying lenses, and are quite different from laser sights. Magnifying sights work differently and have their own list of specifications when in use. Reflex sights are a great add-on for any gun, especially for hunters. There are many types and uses for reflex sights, and they all serve different purpose for the user.

Buying A Full Tube Reflex Sight

Full tube reflex sights are exactly what the name says, full tube. They are cylindrical and similar to a telescope. They are adjustable and come with many features such as glare reducing shades, haze eliminating or reducing filters, and lens covers that protect the lens of the reflex sight. When buying a full tube sight, look for durable high quality materials that come with protective covers. Using one that won’t break easily works best, because chances are you will drop it a few times. The more features the better, depending on your environment. If you need extensive viewing abilities and magnification, then choose one that has plenty of options to change according to your needs and preferences. Expect to spend $400-$800 on a high quality full tube sight.

Buying an Open Sight

Open sights are like mini reflex sights. They are small and only require a small single reflective surface that loops and works without all of the extra things that a full tube needs. When used in two eye viewing mode, they work exactly the same as a full tube, but they cannot accommodate all of the filters and special add-ons that a full tube extended model could. These also weigh significantly less since they are much smaller than a larger sight. This is great for those that need to move quickly without a lot of noise or disruption. They are also on the much cheaper end, and cost only $40-$100 in most cases.

Buying Small Tube Sights

Small tube sights are a nice combination of a full tube and an open sight. They are able to use filters and special attachments, but they are also small and maintain a small field of view. These are moderately priced a good option for someone who wants a mid-range quality sight.

What To Look For In All Types of Sights

Image Quality of the sight is a very important part of your purchase. Not all sights are going to have the absolute best image quality, so choose one that reflects a high quality resolution image. Be sure that the scope has clear magnification, as well as precise adjustment options. Magnification usually lowers the quality of an image the more you magnify. A high quality sight will provide high resolution images at any magnification level. Low power is best for scopes that are trying to target fast moving objects and viewing in low light areas and thick vegetation. Medium power works best with big animals, as well as medium range distance. High power sights are perfect for small creatures, and stationary objects. Power will vary in scopes, so choose according to your needs. For example, in 3-10×45 3 to 10 would represent that number of times that the object will be magnified. If you want to see something 3 times the normal amount, then choose 3. 10 would be the maximum. Some sights are designed to be at one magnification, but varied ones are best for those that like different options when shooting. The second number in the section is the size of the lens. So if your lens is 45 or 50 then the numbers will look like “4×50”. Length and weight are also important to consider. Heavy scopes usually have more features, but are also heavier to carry around when you are attempting to be stealthy. Choose something compact if you plan to be hiking a lot and something heavier if you are going to be mostly stationary.

There are plenty of options when it comes to buying a reflex sight and each brand or option is going to have significantly different benefits. Choose what will work best for your needs and environment, and go from there. Most reflex sights have money back guarantees, so if you aren’t entirely pleased be sure to get a different brand or different size.