Parting

Collimator sight of a smoothbore hunting rifle. Collimator sights for smoothbore weapons. Traditional sights

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

The use of 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 range limit. Even if the charge is enhanced, this limitation will be about 120 m. A multiple increase at such a distance is not required, and therefore the optics will be superfluous.

It is also important to consider the method of firing a smoothbore weapon. As a rule, fishing is carried out by running, that is, the hunter shoots offhand. Any delay in such a matter will result in a miss. Because the optical sight here will be useless.

Classification

Aimpoint Micro H1 case device has good water resistance

The reflex sight is ideal for a hunting shotgun. But before you buy it, you should know that such “tuning” has several varieties in terms of characteristics.

Energy type

Regarding 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 are powered by batteries, their aiming mark is characterized by continuous burning. This is a convenient and practical type of sight, which involves convenient removal of the battery - without dismantling the entire structure.
Working offline. In such designs there is a built-in battery, the resource of which is enough for several years of operation of the device. For example, modern military-type collimators are able to work 5-8 years from a standard battery. Such devices are not afraid of difficult weather conditions, since their case reliably protects the battery from external influences. In such designs there are fiber-optic type flies.

Case appearance

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

Closed. This collimator, mounted on smoothbore guns, looks like a standard optical sight, only slightly shortened. Such designs suggest the presence of several lenses. They are perfectly protected from the negative effects of the 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 able to withstand very strong recoil, which makes it possible to install such structures on large-caliber weapons.
Open. This type of sights has 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 in standard conditions. Since only one lens is installed on them, they are called single-lens. The main advantage of open collimator sights is the convenience of shooting from them: the device is small and light in weight, and therefore the view is not blocked by the body of the sight, 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, which is often neglected by novice hunters. However, the accuracy of the shot often depends on the way the mark is projected. Consider the types of sights regarding this parameter in more detail:

Classic. On the front of the device is a lens on which the mark is projected. It can be in the form of a square, a point or a point in a circle, crossed lines.
Holographic. This is an open sight, which is ideal for smoothbore weapons. The aiming mark here is located on the hologram and is visualized by a laser beam. Both three-dimensional and conventional sighting reticles can be applied to such a label. The advantage is that they are always visible to the hunter, no matter what the level of illumination on 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 compared to other models.
Diopter. They are characterized by the fact that they provide high accuracy of the shot, which is achieved due to the large sighting 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.

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

Benefits of using

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

Simplicity and high speed aiming. If in an open sight it is required to match the rear sight and front sight, and then the target and rear sight, then everything is simpler with a collimator. 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, therefore it is easier to shoot.
The dimensions of the target are not distorted. If we compare the collimator and optical models, then the first one has the minimum 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 for smoothbore guns does not enlarge the picture, 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 the second eye, which is especially important when using 12 gauge. In this case, the body of the device disappears from sight, only the aiming mark remains in the field of view. This means that the view opens almost limitless.
The weight of the device is much less in comparison with other varieties. This is necessary not only in order to reduce the overall weight of the gun. The lightness of the collimator allows the hunter to aim faster and shoot more accurately without focusing on keeping the weapon steady.

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

How to choose a reflex sight for a smoothbore weapon

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

When choosing a collimator sight for a 12-gauge shotgun, you should pay attention to open-type models. Their advantages lie in being compact and providing a really good view.

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

Mount type

On the modern market there are many sights equipped with universal clamps. And they should be given priority in the first place. This is due to two reasons:

In this case, you do not have to try on the sight to 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 switch weapons. This is due to the fact that new and more modern models often appear on the modern market. In addition, over time, the requirements of a particular hunter may change. By purchasing a scope with a universal mount, you do not have to change it when changing weapons.

Source of power

Most experts agree that the most preferred in this case is the battery. 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 it is used in winter.

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

Dimming limits

Sightmark panoramic dot sight

It should be remembered that in good sights there are at least 5 interchangeable marks. Such sights can be successfully used in poor light conditions, but they are also somewhat more expensive than simple models.

Adjusting the brightness will be a great option for a sit-in. However, when carrying out running hunting in the daytime, this function will not be useful.

Label types

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

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

Experts advise when choosing a sight to try each of the above options. In this case, there is no concept of the 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 this or that sight will be effective.

Rating of the best models

The device is not afraid of drops and bumps

In addition to reviewing the main characteristics of modern collimator 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 sure of its high quality and reliability.

So, the best models of collimator sights for 12 gauge smoothbore weapons are:

Sightmark SM13001-DT. This open 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. A good option for those individuals 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. High battery life is ensured even in severe frosts. At maximum glow, the battery can work for 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 bar. This collimator significantly saves time for its installation. sold immediately assembled with a quick-release adapter for shotguns with a ventilated strap 12, 16, 20 gauge.
Leapers SCP RD40RGW-A. The collimator is small in size, the main difference of which is a removable mount. Therefore, it can be easily transported in a special case, having been installed on the gun already upon arrival at the shooting range. Depending on the conditions of use, you can choose one of two colors of the aiming mark: green for winter or autumn forests and red, which will be clearly visible against the background of greenery.
Leapers SCP-DS3028W. Closed-type sight, the main feature of which is anti-shock. The model is perfectly built and designed for quick and easy installation on the Weaver bar. The lens installed in this model can not be called large, but nevertheless, it is able to provide an excellent field of view.
Sightmark SM13003B Box. 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 ribs 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 it has a small landing base, which is why you will not cling to branches while moving through the forest. It should be noted the successful execution of the lens, which has thin edges, providing the hunter with a convenient process of tracking the target.
Aimpoint MicroH1. This model is considered to be one of the best in its class. This riflescope is highly resistant to recoil and is reliable yet easy to use and light in weight. Thus, the device was able to incorporate the advantages of open and closed structures. It can be easily installed on any type of weapon that has a ventilated bar. The capacious battery performs well in low temperatures. The case is waterproof.
Docter Sight III. Open type collimator equipped with a specially designed mount. A feature of the model is the automatic adjustment of the brightness of the brand, depending on the lighting.

Brightness adjusts automatically

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

Choosing a reflex sight for smoothbore weapons can be another challenge. To purchase a truly high-quality and versatile device, you need to pay attention to a number of parameters that 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.

One of the most popular optical devices for hunting or sports shooting (after weapons, of course) is a scope. It is designed to simplify aiming weapons at the desired target. Manufacturers today make a variety of models that can be used for different types of rifles, both firearms and pneumatics.

Modern sights have high quality optics, as well as a lightweight and shockproof body made of aircraft-grade aluminum. Most owners of hunting carbines and air rifles equip them with an optical sight, which fully reveals the potential of accurate weapons.

The online store site offers a wide selection of models from reputable world manufacturers. The sights presented in the catalog are made of reliable high-strength materials that can withstand severe loads and are distinguished by a long service life.

How to buy an optical sight for a hunting carbine

When choosing, it is important that the model matches the weapon with which to interact. It should be understood at what distances it is planned to shoot, what the external conditions will be, the caliber of the weapon and what goals the shooter is pursuing. First of all, you should pay attention to such parameters as the magnification and diameter of the lens, the tightness of the body, resistance to recoil, mounting brackets and the reticle.

The online store site offers and sports shooting at affordable prices. Delivery is possible to any city in Russia. If you have any questions, our experts will professionally advise and help you make the right choice.

The problem of choosing the right red dot sight worries many 12 gauge gun owners. On the one hand, if you do not plan to shoot at long distances, collimators with their light weight and the ability to quickly aim will be the best choice. But on the other hand, many models are very sensitive to shock loads and recoil. Thus, the reliability of the collimator comes first.

So, let's figure out which red dot sight to choose for 12 gauge. The main requirements here will be:

robust design and good anti-shock system;
light and durable body material - best of all aviation aluminum;
secure mounting - Weaver or Picatinni rail is preferred.

Many of the expensive imported collimators meet these requirements - for example, EOTech or Aimpoint products, but you can also find suitable options among domestic models.

Before choosing a red dot sight for the 12th gauge, ask about its caliber stability - information about this is in the technical data sheet. Ideally, you'll want a collimator with a muzzle energy limit of around 5000J - a scope that can withstand the recoil of a 12 gauge weapon (even with a little margin of safety that won't hurt).

Inexpensive collimator for 12 gauge - Pilad P 1x42

Review of the best collimators for 12 gauge weapons

- compact and lightweight, they are distinguished by two-color illumination of the reticle (red and green), allowing you to successfully aim in different conditions and in different lighting conditions. Among them there are both models with an integrated Weaver rail and sights for dovetail mounts - the latter are convenient for domestic rifles.

- an almost universal red dot sight that can be mounted on a smoothbore gun, on a carbine and even on a sports bow. It is characterized by high frost resistance (down to -30°C) and water resistance when immersed to a depth of 5 meters.

- unlike the previous options, this is an open type collimator that gives the widest possible view. Specialized mount allows you to easily install it directly on the aiming bar of the weapon. Despite the ultra-light weight - only 25 gr. without mounting plate - it can be used with shotguns of almost any caliber.

If the purchase budget does not allow you to choose a reflex sight for 12 gauge from the range of expensive prestigious brands, there are quite reliable budget models.

– an inexpensive open collimator with a wide field of view and dual-mode reticle illumination. It mounts on a Weaver rail, has a durable anodized aluminum body, and is suitable for many types of weapons.

- budget domestic sights, among which there are both open and closed models. All of them have impact resistance up to 800 g, which is enough to withstand the loads when used on 12 gauge weapons. One of the advantages of this line is the large temperature range that allows the use of collimators in northern latitudes.

Collimator sights for smoothbore weapons in our country are used very actively. The thing is that they have compact dimensions, light weight, bright aiming mark. In this case, parallax is usually absent. So this is the position in our catalog that deserves your attention.

Why should everyone have this device?

A reflex sight for a shotgun is an element of humane hunting. Agree, is it much more correct when the game dies in a matter of seconds, without experiencing prolonged torment? This is possible due to the increased accuracy of shooting. After all, the hunter can aim and follow the game with both eyes at once. Even if it is not in a static position.

Principle of operation

The collimator sight is complemented by a smoothbore gun according to the principle of collimation of light rays. A beam of rays, located in a parallel plane at a far distance, repeats the object of observation. The lens is thus a telephoto lens. It has a dot, called an aiming mark. It glows and allows you to draw the correct conclusions about the location of the object.

Collimator sight mount type

Remember: the best reflex sight for smoothbore weapons is the one that fits you perfectly. Therefore, initially pay attention to the type of bracket. It must match the design of the gun in the arsenal. If you have chosen a model without a bracket, you can easily buy it separately.

The effectiveness of shooting depends not only on the practical skills of a hunter or sportsman. You can train for years, but never achieve the desired accuracy of the battle. There are several types of devices that become indispensable assistants for novice shooters and visually impaired people in the process of fishing (or on the stand). One of them is a collimator sight, which is a kind of optical device.

Not everyone understands why a reflex sight is preferable to a traditional optic for a 12-gauge shotgun, and this should be explained for those who do not have enough experience in hunting with a “smoothbore”.

Firstly, any shotgun has a range limit. The maximum is up to 120 m, and this is subject to an increased charge, which is rarely practiced. It is unlikely that at such distances a multiple increase is required. Therefore, the acquisition of expensive optics is not justified in any way.

Secondly, fishing with smooth-bore weapons is most often carried out under way. Therefore, shooting is predominantly offhand. The slightest delay, and a miss. Therefore, in such situations, a traditional optical sight is a poor helper.

The collimator is a device, in fact, universal. In it, the mark (dot) replaces both the rear sight and the front sight of a smoothbore weapon. When hunting at close range, a red dot sight is much more effective than any expensive optics and cheap frame devices that are installed on the cut of the trunks. Therefore, it is considered an intermediate option, and for a 12-gauge shotgun, it is the best choice.

Aiming does not require closing one eye, as is done when installing traditional optics on a weapon. It is more than convenient for running hunting and saves a lot of time, allowing you to make an accurate shot at a running (flying) object in a matter of seconds.

Another argument in favor of installing a collimator on a 12-gauge smoothbore weapon. Firstly, shooting is carried out, as a rule, with shot. And its expansion is such that maximum alignment of the aiming line is not required to hit the target. Secondly, 12 gauge is the largest. Consequently, the area covered by the “shot sediment” (at equal distances) is larger than that of other guns. The main thing is to correctly choose the best option for a collimator sight for a particular type of hunting.

Rating of the best collimator sights for a 12 gauge smoothbore gun

On sale there are several series of optical devices of the same brand. All their advantages are noted on the basis of feedback from athletes and hunters, which are easy to find on forums and websites of relevant topics.

Prices are indicative, for the Moscow region, in Russian rubles.

SIGHTMARK

Model SM1

Series 3005. This red dot sight is well suited for fishing in low temperatures. At values up to -25 ºС, the brightness of the glow does not change. The small weight of the device, protection from mechanical damage, falls from a height make it attractive for lovers of sea hunting. Price - 9 000.

Series 3003B (BOX 1x33). open collimator. Advantages - an excellent panoramic view, the presence of several types (up to 4) of aiming marks, which ensures the accuracy of the shot both by a bullet and by a shot charge. Price - 6 290. Series 3001. Attracts, first of all, with its small dimensions. This device belongs to the category of mini-sights, so it is perfect for those hunters who prefer to fish in places with dense vegetation (forest belts and so on). The specifics of the lens device provides a view in a large sector without shifting the barrel of your 12 gauge weapon. Price - 8 190.

Model SM2

The collimator sight of the 6003 series stands out here. Such models are called ultra-compact (weight - 60 g). Type is open. The battery capacity allows you to provide continuous illumination (when fully charged) for 8 - 9 days. Hunters note the ease of use during preemptive shooting, that is, at a moving object (a hare, ducks taking off, etc.). Price - 8 430.

LEAPERS

SCP Model

Series RD40RGW-A. The type of collimator is closed. The main advantage is a quick installation on a smooth-bore weapon. This allows you to carry the device in a special case in the process of moving to the place where the hunt began. Another plus is that 2 colors are provided for the aiming mark: red is clearly visible against the background of foliage, grass; green - for autumn and winter fishing. Price - 2 680.

DS3028W series. Another closed-type collimator sight. Advantages - good protection against impacts, ease of installation on a smooth-bore weapon, a sufficient viewing angle (at a distance of 100 m it is ± 160). Price - 3 890.

Aimpoint Micro

This reflex sight model is considered one of the best for 12 caliber smoothbore weapons. It optimally combines the advantages of open (ease of use, low weight) and closed (reliability, inertness to recoil) types of optical devices. The battery is designed for 48,000 hours of operation, and the quality of the backlight does not decrease even at extremely low temperatures.

This collimator is not afraid of water (permissible immersion is 5 m) and can be installed not only on a 12 gauge smoothbore gun, but also on other types of weapons equipped with a ventilated strap. Price - from 32 990.

DOCTER Sight (Model III 3.5)

The type of collimator sight is open. The main "highlight" is the ability of the optics to independently adjust the brightness of the backlight depending on the lighting conditions. This creates convenience during winter hunting - you do not need to cling to the cold butt for a long time and aim. Mount branded, universal. Price - from 18 190.

The collimator sights given as an example are not the only ones of high quality. On sale there are models from other manufacturers, to which there are no special complaints - "Hakko BED" (Japan), "EOTech" (USA). But this is due not only to their high reliability, but also to low demand - they are much more expensive, and therefore are purchased by owners of smooth-bore weapons less often. Accordingly, there are not so many reviews.

In fairness, it should be noted that all devices under these brands entering our market are manufactured in China.

A lot of positive feedback about the Russian development of optics for smoothbore weapons. For 12 gauge, the Cobra collimator (EKP-8-21 series) is excellent. The price is much lower than many foreign analogues - 12,780, and in terms of quality it is not inferior to them.

For smoothbore weapons, including, and, it is advisable to focus on open-type devices. They are more compact and provide a good overview. If the sight is closed, then it should be a holographic collimator, and not an old-style model, when when aiming it was necessary to close one eye in order to connect 2 points.

Mount type

It should immediately be clarified whether it is suitable for a particular 12 gauge weapon. On sale there are collimator sights with a universal locking mechanism. They are preferred for two reasons. Firstly, you don’t have to do “fitting” right in the store (and for this you need to come to it with your gun). Secondly, if instead of the old model it is planned to purchase a more advanced weapon, then the collimator will not need to be changed.

Label type

There are several options, depending on the manufacturer of the collimator - a single point, it is in a circle; intersecting lines; triangle. It is advisable to try out the convenience of aiming from different models of the device. Here, third-party recommendations are superfluous - only your own feelings. The only thing that needs to be clarified is at what distance this sight is most effective.

Dimming limits

A good collimator is considered to have at least 5 interchangeable marks. But these are active types of sights, which involve their use in the dark. They cost more, so you should think about whether this optical device is really needed for hunting during the day. But for a sit-down - an excellent choice.

Source of power

Here it is short - the battery is preferable. The fact is that all battery-type elements, colloquially called "pills", are sensitive to sub-zero temperatures. In winter hunting, this will directly affect the quality of the functioning of the collimator sight.

Price

One of the main points when choosing a fixture. High-quality optics, by definition, cannot be cheap. An example is branded binoculars, glasses, microscopes. There are various models of collimator sights made in China all over the market. In many respects, they are characterized quite well, but there is a significant drawback that completely eliminates all the existing advantages - they are sensitive to recoil. Since we are talking about 12 caliber smoothbore weapons, it is quite significant.

How the device will behave after the first shot, especially if it is made with a Magnum cartridge, no professional will undertake to predict. Therefore, it is better not to take risks and spend money on a more reliable red dot sight from a well-known manufacturer.