What red dots do we like for defensive shotguns?

[awp_101]

My probable next step in setting up some defensive shotguns is to put dots on them. I'm sure shotguns are as hard on optics as handgun slides, probably more so. I've got an M3000 that already has a pic rail and an older 870 I'm going to see about having d&t for a CROM.

Open or closed emitter? The front and back porch are covered so the chances of having to use one outside without overhead cover is small but not zero. Training classes for example.

Tube style (including square like the Acro or Holosun [AEMS?]) or RMR/SRO/EPS style? Or is that pretty eye dependent?

Other than the usual Chinesium airsoft grade fare on Amazon, are there any to avoid because they just can't/don't stand up to 12ga recoil very long?

[mmc45414]

Tube style (including square like the Acro or Holosun [AEMS?]) or RMR/SRO/EPS style?

I put an MRO on my 1301 Comp, with a Rusty Nuts mount (https://rustynutsdesigns.com/products/beretta-1301-low-profile-optic-mount).

Use it for three gun, but do not have enough rounds through it vouch for longevity.
I know they do not get much love, but they can be had for about $350 right now (https://www.midwayusa.com/product/1583140597/).

[GearFondler]

Aimpoint T1, RMR, and Holosun 507 have all proven to be durable enough for long term shotgun use... 509T should be as well, it's footprint has just limited its use here.

[mmc45414]

I'm sure shotguns are as hard on optics as handgun slides, probably more so.
Ya know, I am not so sure, especially if we are talking autoloading shotguns. Maybe full loads out of a pump gun...

[Paul Blackburn]

The Holosun 507's have come in red or green, come with multiple useful reticle options, and a solid reputation for durability.

The Primary Arms Micro Dot is a simple red dot that also has a solid reputation for durability.

Both come with common footprints, a good selection of quality mounts, and excellent battery life.

Of course Aimpoint is a good choice if you dontt mind the Aimpoint price tag.

[Lon]

Holosun (403 series), Vortex (Sparc) and Primary Arms (SLx Advanced Gen 2) optics comparable to the Aimpoint T1.

[Street Survival]

Aimpoint T-2 is the gold standard, in my opinion.

[dontshakepandas]

I just set up an Aimpoint Acro P2 on a 1301 and it has some advantages over the Aimpoint T2 I've used before. First, it cowitnesses with the factory irons, which I prefer over the Crom setup. Second, I can witness mark the mounting cross screw to easily see if it has loosened vs the 4 tiny screws on the T2 which require the entire mount and rear sight assembly to tighten if they loosen. I also find that the size and shape just feel better on top of the 1301 than the T2 did.

It hasn't seen any abuse yet, but as long as it holds up I think this is a better set up for me.

[Navin Johnson]

I just set up an Aimpoint Acro P2 on a 1301 and it has some advantages over the Aimpoint T2 I've used before. First, it cowitnesses with the factory irons, which I prefer over the Crom setup. Second, I can witness mark the mounting cross screw to easily see if it has loosened vs the 4 tiny screws on the T2 which require the entire mount and rear sight assembly to tighten if they loosen. I also find that the size and shape just feel better on top of the 1301 than the T2 did.

It hasn't seen any abuse yet, but as long as it holds up I think this is a better set up for me.

How did you mount the Acro?

[Erick Gelhaus]

I have or have had ... Aimpoint T1 & Acro P2, Holosun AEMS, C&H Precision Comp, and most recently, a Holosun 407K on my shotguns. Aimpoints have the longest time and highest round counts.

Not sure the shotgun is harder on optics than pistol slides are. Recoil & movement are different;
I prefer enclosed for all but concealed carry guns;
Mounting has been to rail sections or direct mount options.

[dontshakepandas]

How did you mount the Acro?

I'm using the Scalarworks mount.

[awp_101]

Thanks everyone! It seems most optics rated for centerfire pistols or rifles would be acceptable so that’s good to know.

[G19Fan]

My probable next step in setting up some defensive shotguns is to put dots on them. I'm sure shotguns are as hard on optics as handgun slides, probably more so. I've got an M3000 that already has a pic rail and an older 870 I'm going to see about having d&t for a CROM.

Open or closed emitter? The front and back porch are covered so the chances of having to use one outside without overhead cover is small but not zero. Training classes for example.

Tube style (including square like the Acro or Holosun [AEMS?]) or RMR/SRO/EPS style? Or is that pretty eye dependent?

Other than the usual Chinesium airsoft grade fare on Amazon, are there any to avoid because they just can't/don't stand up to 12ga recoil very long?

Holosun 407 or 507 series c or k all work well

[Whiskey_Bravo]

I've bought three 870 Police trade-ins over the last few months. The price was RIGHT on all three. Two of them have 18.5" bead sight barrels. I plan to get the receivers drilled and tapped on the top of both of these guns. Then I will be ordering the ACRO mounts from Vang Comp.

I have two ACRO P1s sitting around doing nothing since upgrading the dots on my handguns. A 12 gauge seems like a really good host for the ACRO or any Aimpoint for that matter.