Nowadays, it is exceedingly challenging to get a holographic sight that is of the highest overall calibre. when you have to consider the capabilities, prices, and usefulness of the numerous brands that are on the market. Finding satisfying solutions to any of these problems could be challenging. I’ve decided to publish an article highlighting some of the key differences between various holographic sight designs and other types of optics as a result.
The objective of my research was to determine the top 10 holographic views, and I was able to do this by first grouping them into various categories. Using these groupings, the difficult task of identifying the ideal holographic sight for your rifle was then made simple.
Here are some of the holographic sights that, in my opinion, are now the best available:
The Top 4 Tactical Alternatives:
- The XPS2 Holographic Weapon SightEOTECH
- The AMG UH-1 “HUEY” from VORTEX
- The 512 Holographic Weapon Sight from EOTECH
- The HS510C from HOLOSUN
The Top Three Budget Options:
- The SM26005 Ultra Shot M-Spec Reflex SightSightmark
- The Defense DDHB Red Dot Reflex Sight from Dagger
- The 1X22X33 Red Green Dot Gun Sight Scope Reflex Sight from CVLIFE
The Top Three Pistol Options:
- The RMR Type 2 3.25 MOA Adjustable LED Red Dot Sight from Trijicon
- The Optics Venom Red Dot Sights from Vortex
- The FAST FIRE III from BURRIS
What Exactly is a Holographic Sight?
It’s critical to comprehend what a holographic sight is and how it varies from a standard red dot optic before continuing.
To help shooters accurately place shots at longer ranges of up to 300 yards, holographic sights were developed.
Most shooters would classify targets 300 yards away as being long-range. When a holographic sight is projected into the field of view using mirrors and lasers, the image it produces can be noticeably clearer and sharper. Unlike red dot optics, which use an LED light that is reflected to the shooter’s eye through a coated front glass, this technology does not use red dots.
What Can Holographic Sights Be Used On?
Red dot sight optics and holographic sights are useful in close-quarters warfare. Deer and turkey hunting can also be done with a holographic sight.
Shock ratings enable several of the more expensive varieties to be used with platforms including Scar 17s, 300 Blackouts, AK-47s, AR-10s, and AR-15s. Many of these features—many of which we’ll discuss later in the article—have options that allow them to be modified so that they may also be used with pistols like Glocks.
Contrary to what some people may believe, many of the inexpensive things on the market simply do not provide you a level of consistency, and many of them are unable to withstand the recoil from rifles with higher calibres.
What Are The Advantages of Using Holographic Optics?
According to the majority of experts, the primary difference between holographic sights and red dot optics is that the former makes it easier for shooters to find their reticle. Because the reticle looks projected in front of your optic rather than reflected onto your eye, focusing on it is much easier.
When utilising a red dot optic, some inexperienced shooters struggle to maintain their attention because the targets or the dot can be confusing. Some shooters with astigmatism find using holographic sights to be far simpler to use because no light is being projected onto the eye.
The LED light of red dot optics typically appears as a thin, fuzzy line, and on rare occasions, eye problems make them appear as Starbursts. This simply does not occur because of the way holographic sights are created. One advantage of holographic sights’ design that is frequently disregarded is their durability.
The sight’s ability to function depends on the reflection of lasers via a variety of mirrors. It took a lot of time and effort for manufacturers to develop products that could deliver an accurate sight and endure the shock of being discharged with a variety of ammunition.
Especially in light of the fact that many of these holographic sights were engineered to resist abuse characteristic of the military. They were over-engineered, so they work flawlessly for the vast majority of typical users. Your holographic sight is designed to continue working even if you misfortunely lose or damage the lens.
This just isn’t the case with any red dot optics since the LED red must reflect back to the shooter’s eye from the front lens right away. If you are rough with your gear and feel that you could be in danger, do you have a history of breaking the front glass in your optics? Holographic sights are always better than red dot sights.
Are There Any Disadvantages to Holographic Sights?
Despite all the testing and scientific breakthroughs these sights go through, there is one significant disadvantage that a holographic sight may find challenging to overcome: it needs to be charged. Red dot optics use LED lights, which have lately become more efficient. They are currently practically usable for 50,000 hours.
However, the inability of holographic sight to support a battery life of more than 1000 hours renders it ineffective. The main reason for this is the added stress placed on the laser. The constant quest for lighter and smaller holographic sights, which results in batteries growing smaller and less powerful along with them, exacerbates this problem.
Are There Any Other Considerations They Should Take Into Account Before Choosing the Best Sight?
It should be simpler for you to choose the best red dot or holographic sight for you once you are aware of the main differences between them. To make sure you obtain an optic that suits your needs, you can still ask a few more questions.
Which kind of handgun I want to mount the optic on should be the first thing I think about. This is important because the weapon you choose will determine what kind of optics you can acquire. Additionally, it can restrict the functions you are able to use. For example, shotguns are known to recoil with substantially higher energy. A holographic sight made to endure this larger shock is something you should get.
You could be better off just choosing a smaller or lighter one if all you’re looking is a reliable optic for your preferred Ruger 10/22 or other rimfire rifle. The next thing you need to think about is the intended use of the holographic sight.
You’ll surely be interested in buying an optic that can survive a lot of abuse in the field if you’re a serious hunter. Even if you are more technically inclined, the robustness of your optic could be really important. The objective lens’s field of view will likely come before any other features you are thinking about. Not getting abused is their first priority; for some, finding the best optic for home defence is their top priority.
Is There Anything Else I Should Consider?
You should consider whether an optic will serve as a stepping stone for a subsequent purchase of a better or other sort of sight before making any purchases. Let’s face it, when it comes to buying rifle attachments, many shooters today behave like children in a candy store. Because of the variety of sights that are available to them, kids frequently are unsure of what they want.
Now, I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with this strategy, but if you consistently buy the most costly products on the market, it may end up costing you a lot of money. The m68 CCO optic from Endpoint used to be by far the best optic available. Although it is still widely used, recent technology developments have allowed superior alternatives to overtake it and leave it in the dust.
Due to the nature of the market, people will always swap between various types of optics as they search for the ideal alternative to suit their shooting style. Holographic optics have been able to carve out a modest niche in the shooting market because they are a practical choice for a variety of shooters.
Despite this, a tool that greatly excels a holographic sight’s capabilities might be unveiled tomorrow, making it useless. Your budget ought to be your top priority when looking to get any kind of optic. What are the boundaries of your finances? Since there always seems to be a little better and somewhat more expensive option once you start looking around, this is a challenging question to answer.
Because of this, it’s essential to set and stick to a sensible spending cap. The buyer deserves all the information you can provide. to assist you in selecting the greatest optic choice while purchasing. To be clear, if you want to use your affordable optics primarily for pleasure, there is nothing improper with doing so.
On the other hand, if you work in security, the military, or perhaps law enforcement, this viewpoint will be a part of your daily existence. If you have a spending limit for your equipment, you should always prioritise getting the things that are best for you.
If the goal of the optic purchase is home defence, what value do you place on your safety? or protecting your home? All of these aspects should be taken into account before making any purchases.
How to Make the Most of Your New Holographic Sight?
After the line between amateur sights and holographic sights gaming started to blur, consumers had a lot more options. As more options are made available to consumers, market competition will always increase.
In order to increase sales, optical companies are consequently compelled to innovate more and lower their prices. Customers typically gain from this, especially if they’re only concerned with acquiring the best quality possible while staying under a given budget.
The best approach to be sure you got your money’s worth when you get one is to use any form of sight. If you purchase something only to have it sit in your closet gathering dust, it will surely be a waste of money.
You can learn how to precisely zero the optics and make them as user-friendly as you can if you have access to a shooting range. You may also enhance your shock resistance and sight to give you the best field of view. You can experiment with various situations to see how your reticle reacts. No of how often you intend to use it, knowing all of this will make you a better shot.
So What Holographic Sights Made Our Top Ten?
Reading this review will make your life as simple as possible. Head straight for the budget section if you want to buy the best low-cost items or if you’re seeking for a pistol sight. Otherwise, feel free to read on.
The Top Four Tactical Options:
1. The XPS2 Holographic Weapon Sight from EOTECH
The shooters who are more familiar with brands are aware of the enormous demand for holographic sights produced by EOTech.
They developed the holographic sight, and all of their products have rigidity and utility, which makes this easier. The XPS-2 is one of their most recent products. While still taking up the least amount of space on your weapon, this smaller sight has all the capabilities of EOtech’s larger versions.
Its trademark is the 1MOA dot reticle, for which EOTech is well-known. This is mounted on a 68 MOA ring. Many of its rivals have tried to duplicate this model due to its great ability to quickly acquire targets in close proximity and capability to combine this with accuracy shooting over long distances.
The XPS 2 has some of the most innovative and cutting-edge technology available today. It has more than 20 brightness levels that are adjustable, with an additional 10 settings that are ideal for night vision.
Shooters can acquire targets as rapidly as feasible because to the unrestricted eye relief it provides. When you set their eye relief to 3 inches, you may now see a few live views from up to 30 yards away.
The only shortcoming of the EOTech holographic sight is its short battery life. They have made an effort to boost user control, though, by incorporating an auto-shutdown feature that can be set for anywhere between 4 and 8 hours. The reticle now features a blink feature that alerts you when the batteries need to be changed.
- EOTECH XPS2-0 – Holographic Weapon Sight in black with 68MOA ring & 1 MOA dot reticle
- Mount – Compatible with both 1 Weaver and MIL-STD 1913 Rails
- Adjustable Brightness – The XPS2 has 20 brightness settings for use in any lighting scenario
- Compact Design – Leaves more rail space for rear iron sights or magnifier
- EOTECH HWS Prestige Warranty – Comes with 10 year limited warranty
2. The AMG UH-1 “HUEY” from Vortex
The introduction of this optic on the market surely created some noise. As the company’s fame continues to grow, more imaginative views are being requested from clients.
The UH-1 was created mostly in response to customer needs, but it also had a dual purpose of advancing holographic sight technology. The reticle has pushed the 68 MOA ring’s boundaries even further. This was accomplished by providing an offset aiming point that allowed the sight to function in much smaller spaces.
The EOTech XPS-2 and the AMG UH-1 are rivals due to a variety of extra features as well. In addition to the main functionality, it has a quick-release mount incorporated into it. The sight can now work for longer periods of time and has a longer battery life thanks to the addition of a more efficient power supply. To enable quick charging, a micro USB port has also been included.
This sight is really sturdy as well. Even when compared favourably to some of the most expensive ones on the market. The sight also features 1/2 MOA adjustments, which significantly eases the process of zeroing the sight at varied ranges.
3. The 512 Holographic Weapon Sight from EOTECH
The EOTech 512 has dominated the holographic sight market for more than ten years. This tried-and-true website improves yearly to maintain its position as a top choice. The optics are robustly constructed and can survive even some of the military’s most potent weaponry.
Due to the commonality of their battery arrangement, which lets you to use two AA batteries, the sight is a little bit more versatile than some of its competitors. The only reason this isn’t my top selection is because it’s bulkier than some of its competitors, even though the XPS -2 has all the same functionality and a slightly lower footprint.
The EOTech premium sight, which has the same brightness adjustments, field of view, optical surfaces, and auto-shutdown capabilities as the XPS-2, shares the same quality and usefulness. The price difference between it and the XPS – 2 is roughly $120.
- EOTECH 512.A65 – Holographic Sight in Black with 68 MOA ring & 1 MOA dot reticle
- Mount – Compatible with both 1 Weaver and MIL-STD 1913 Rails
- Adjustable Brightness – The 512 has 20 brightness settings for use in any lighting scenario
- Water Resistant – The 512 is water resistant to 10 feet (3m)
- EOTECH HWS Prestige Warranty – Comes with 10 year limited warranty
4. The HS510C from HOLOSUN
Although it is not a true holographic sight, it uses holographic sight principles and performs the same duties as an open sight, providing a more cost-effective and durable option to the more expensive sights provided by EOTech and Vortex.
The primary objective of this optic is to provide an eye reflex sight with some of the qualities found in more expensive options while keeping the price significantly cheaper.
The HS501C is more appealing because it costs $175 less than the XPS-2 from EOTech. combining the durability of a holographic sight with a red dot optical performance that is standardised. This provides the shooter with a rectangle that is straightforward to obtain but differs from most of its competitors in having a lighter and slider optic.
This sight appeals to shooters due to the lengthy battery life it offers, with a run period of up to 50,000 hours, when combined with a reticle identical to EOTech’s sight. This Holosun product competes fiercely with it in the market. The optic’s limited number of daylight brightness adjustments and two night vision settings are its only flaws, in my opinion.
The optic has fewer daylight brightness settings than comparable sights in this price range, but it does feature two night vision-compatible surroundings that work better than others. It can still compete with many other attractions in this pricing range because of this.
- The Holosun HS510C New advanced technology LED allows up to 50,000 hours of operation on one CR2032 battery
- 2 MOA dot and a 65 MOA ring, Dot only, Ring only, or Dot and Ring reticle combinations
- Unlimited field of view, Titanium-alloyed, shock resistant hood
- Powered by both battery and solar
- QD mount integrated for easy mounting and removal
The Top Three Budget Options:
5. The SM26005 Ultra Shot M-Spec Reflex Sight from Sightmark
Similar to the HHS 501c, this reflex device from Sightmark is designed to look like a holographic sight. Even so, it uses an open optic, allowing it to provide traditional holographic characteristics in a low-cost sight.
One of this company’s selling points is its capacity to provide respectable optics at competitive pricing. This is mostly due to their simple design approaches. They considerably reduced the amount of brightness settings, which increases battery life, and added additional capabilities to make this a quantity optic.
Despite all, it gives shooters a choice between six brightness levels. The 65 MOA ring foundation of the reticle allows for quick aiming. That is 100 yards away from being precise. The battery life is also decent given its cost. You can anticipate getting around 1,000 hours while using the auto shut-off feature. One of the peculiar characteristics of the sight is that it may be submerged up to 40 feet under water.
- Low power consumption & up to 1, 000 hour Battery life
- Adjustable quick-detach Weaver mount
- Rugged cast-magnesium alloy housing with protective shield
- IP68 waterproof-submersible to 40ft
- Advanced, scratchproof, optical system with parallax correction
6. The Defense DDHB Red Dot Reflex Sight from Dagger
Although Dagger Defense is a new player on the market, they immediately stood out by providing one of the greatest red dot reflex sights available.
Similar to other, more expensive goods on the list, the DDHB has a design. Additionally, it has an open optic that blends the benefits of holographic sights with traditional red dot technology.
Because it is easy to zero and includes a built-in set screw that allows you to lock the zero, the sight is well-liked by users. Four other reticle settings are additionally available to suit your preferences.
It is undeniable that the DDHB lacks some of the functionality provided by its competitors, but for $50, who can object? It functions nicely as a learning optic. Even while it would not be practicable to conduct operations in Afghanistan, you can use it for some friendly rivalry on the range.
- Both red and green dot, four position reticles
- Equipped with a locking set screw to stabilize your sighting adjustments (use only if needed and turn 1-2 times clockwise only)
- APERTURE：33mm LENGTH：82mm WEIGHT： 291g FIELD OF VIEW： 15.8m@100m
- 1x Type Red Dot & Green Dot Sight scope, CR2032 Battery- 1x Instruction Manual- 2x Allen Wrench- 1x Lens Cleaning Cloth
7. The 1X22X33 Red Green Dot Gun Sight Scope Reflex Sight from CVLIFE
At just under $25, this optic is the least expensive on our list, but it won’t be awarded any prizes. It does provide you with a very helpful optic, which makes it perfect for new or younger shooters.
Learning to shoot with an iron sight can be difficult for shooters who are inexperienced or new to the sport. You may help them establish sound shooting techniques and boost their confidence by using this red dot gun sight.
Even though the simplex design offers users a large field of view, it is simple enough for any beginner shooter to utilise. The sight is further assembled using an aluminium alloy to produce a lightweight yet robust component. You can easily adjust the elevation or windage with the Allen wrench that is included.
- Screen Size: 22mmx33mm;Weight: 130g; Length: 82mm
- Reflex Sight Reticle Type: Circle Dot, Cross, 10 MOA & 3 MOA(Red and green illuminated)
- 4 reticle patterns offer unlimited eye-relief and corrected parallax
- Allen Wrench included helps you adjust elevation and windage easily.
- Made of high grade Aluminum Alloy, the dot sight is durable and Light weight.
The Top Three Pistol Options:
8. The RMR Type 2 3.25 MOA Adjustable LED Red Dot Sight from Trijicon
This handgun sight from Trijicon is the pinnacle of I’m Smarter optics. It isn’t a holographic optic in the strictest sense, but it does use design cues from holographic sight designs in order to provide quick target acquisition and a robust design with a large field of view.
A big deal of the RMR’s popularity is due to this. Jesus ain’t that it can be used as the main sight on both pistols and rifles. It is a very versatile optic that can be employed with a variety of weapons because to its quick target acquisition capability and lightweight design.
There are a couple reds available as well. Sizes, however, are 3.25 the Moa. It seems to be running at full speed. Another sign of how popular Mars-inspired art is in the market is the abundance of out-of-date mounting options. One potential issue is that you would have to remove the sight from its base in order to recharge the battery. However, given that it typically has a lifespan of four years, this is not a big disadvantage. With a length of just more than 2 inches, this design is relatively compact and lightweight.
- 3.25 MOA ADJUSTABLE LED RMR: Features an automatic brightness mode and easy push buttons for eight adjustable brightness settings including 2 nv and 1 Super bright
- DEPENDABLE ELECTRONIC DESIGN: Ruggedized Battery contacts and electronics ensure performance and survivability in harsh environments
- Battery automatically adjusts aiming dot to ambient lighting conditions after 16.5 hours. Battery life is efficient when used at 21 degree celsius at setting 4 of 8. Bullet drop compensator not present
9. The Optics Venom Red Dot Sights from Vortex
A less expensive but fiercely competitive optic, the Vortex Venom sight is more aggressive than the Trijicon Zara. Everyone seeking for a Microsoft account is advised to utilise the poison since it is similar to the armoire in terms of weight, size, and design. Two more brightness settings are available with the smaller reticle. Furthermore, a solid secure top-load battery mechanism makes battery replacement much simpler than with an RMR.
This sight is lighter even though it is noticeably longer than its competitors. It also has controls with sign mountings that make adjustments quick and straightforward.
Additionally, the recorded brightness can be turned off to extend battery life. Height and windage adjustments are relatively easy to make with just a small screwdriver. When purchased straight from the manufacturer, the optic also comes with a papaya tree low rail mount.
10. The Fast Fire III from BURRIS
The final but by no means least is Burris’ quick fire 3. Be careful not to fall for the lower price and some of the additional photos you will lose.
This fantastic micro-hybrid sight is only little more substantial than the are more and poison. It is around the same size. It can be placed on shotguns and rifles in addition to pistols, even though it was intended to be fitted on pistols.
As a result of its cheaper cost and adaptability, it is a fantastic investment. Battery life may last up to five years if you use the auto shut off helper. Additionally, it provides a wide field of view and excellent target acquisition.
Because the battery can be accessed from the top of the sight, it is comparable to the Venom from Vortex. Even though the CR1632 is less well known than the CR2032, you can still find it at the majority of US grocery and home improvement stores.
There are just three brightness settings, which is a downside. They included a brightness sensor to make sure the reticle matches the environment as nearly as feasible.
- PINPOINT ACCURACY – The Fast Fire III puts an unmistakable red dot at the point of impact within your field of view, giving you an immediate advantage in speed and accuracy.
- VERSATILITY DEFINED – Rely on the automatic brightness sensor to adjust to match the environmental conditions or choose one of the three manual brightness settings.
- RED DOT SIGHT – The 8 MOA dot is ideal for short range shooters and fast acquisition.
My Final Thoughts
You’ve probably realised by now that choosing the ideal holographic sight for you necessitates being aware of the minute variations among the holographic sights now available.
Read each question carefully before making a decision. Choose if you want a hybrid sight, a fully holographic sight, or even a red dot sight before you start. Your search will be more focused as a result.
The greatest method to ensure that a new sight you purchase is profitable is to use it. You need to schedule some consecutive range visits as soon as feasible. As you get more at ease using your new gear, your shooting will get better. The best advice I can give you is to do your research so you can get a long-lasting device because holographic technology is always developing.
