Red-Dot Sights from Aimpoint, Insight Technology, and Vortex

Why does an illuminated dot provide faster recognition for the shooter? First and foremost, the illuminated dot is the brightest object in the field of view. This brings your eye to the dot like a magnet. The key to shooting quickly with an illuminated dot is to focus on the target with the dot in your peripheral

Left to right, our red dots were the $445 Aimpoint 9000SC Camo, Insight Technologies $650 MRDS, and the $179 Vortex StrikeFire. The MRDS scope actually cost $800, as tested. The Aimpoint scope proved to be the most reliable when it came to repeatable adjustment to windage and elevation. The MRDS scope needed a little help when it came to resetting elevation, but made up for it with versatility. The StrikeFire came with a single ring mount that spoiled its elevation setting, and the dot was prone to washing out in sunlight.

In this test we will be evaluating several aspects that we think should be considered when choosing an electronic dot scope. Ease of mounting and sighting in, durability in terms of function and repeatable adjustment, and quality of vision regarding…