Red dot sights are the go-to optic for handgun enthusiasts looking to enhance their shooting accuracy and speed in target acquisitions. However, using a red dot sight can be challenging for those with astigmatism. In this guide, our focus will be to help you find the best handgun red dot for astigmatism that will make a significant difference in your shooting performance.
Astigmatism, a common vision condition, can distort the appearance of the red dot, making it difficult to aim precisely. The challenge of seeing a clear, round dot instead of a blurry or starburst image can be frustrating especially when shooting with a handgun.
Fortunately, the modern advancements in optics have led to the development of red dot sights specifically designed to address this issue. In this article, we’ll explore the best handgun red dot sights for individuals with astigmatism, highlighting the key features that enhance clarity, improve accuracy, and ensure a seamless shooting experience. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a novice looking to hone your skills, finding the right red dot sight can significantly improve your shooting performance with this condition.
What is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a vision condition caused by an irregular shape of the cornea. This condition leads to blurred or distorted vision. It can be hereditary and is often present from birth and it can also result from an eye injury, disease, or surgery.
In an eye that is shaped normally, the cornea and lens have a smooth, evenly curved surface. This curvature helps focus light rays sharply onto the retina at the back of the eye. However, an eye with astigmatism, the surface is irregular, with curves in multiple directions. This causes light to be focused on multiple points rather than just one.
Types of Astigmatism
Astigmatism is classified into two types: Corneal and Lenticular.
- Corneal Astigmatism: This astigmatism is caused by an irregularly shaped cornea.
- Lenticular Astigmatism: This type of astigmatism is caused by an irregularly shaped lens inside the eye.
Symptoms of Astigmatism
The common symptoms of astigmatism include:
- Blurred or distorted vision at all distances
- Eye strain or discomfort
- Headaches
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Squinting
What Does A Red Dot Look Like With Astigmatism?
When using a red dot sight, the red dot reticle often appears distorted rather than as a clear, sharp dot for individuals with astigmatism. The common descriptions of how the red dot looks with astigmatism include:
- Starburst Effect: The dot might look like a starburst, with rays emanating from the center, making it appear more like a star or a sunburst than a single dot.
- Comma Shape: The dot can appear elongated, taking on a comma or teardrop shape.
- Double or Blurry: Some may see a doubled or blurry image of the dot, making it hard to focus.
- Irregular Shape: The dot might look irregular or appear to have multiple points of light.
These distortions are caused by the irregular curvature of the cornea or lens in individuals with astigmatism, which causes light to scatter unevenly as it enters the eye. This scattering affects how the red dot from the sight is perceived.
How To Use a Red Dot Sight With Astigmatism
Using a red dot sight with astigmatism requires specific strategies to enhance your shooting precision and get the most out of your shooting.
One recommended method is to choose an optic with larger MOA reticle, with 4 MOA being the minimum. Such reticles are easy to spot and shoot with. You should also keep the red dot at a low setting to minimize optical distortion.
Another helpful measure is using polarized glasses, which filter vision through fine lines to significantly reduce glare.
Additionally, prism or telescopic sights with lenses and etched glass can create the reticle, reducing astigmatism distortion.
While Low Power Variable Optics (LVPO) are also recommended for individuals with astigmatism, they offer versatility with magnification options but are bulkier, heavier, and less effective at short ranges compared to red dots.
Best Handgun Red Dots for Astigmatism
With all that said, let’s now delve into the best handgun red dots for astigmatism.
1) Holosun HS510C Open Reflex Red Dot Sight
Specifications
- Reticle: 2 MOA Dot & 65 MOA Circle
- Light Wavelength: 540nm
- Parallax Free
- Eye Relief: Unlimited
- Battery Life: 50000 hrs
- Brightness Setting: 10 DL & 2 NV
- Window Size: 0.91×1.26
- Housing Material: Aluminum & Titanium Hood
- Adjustment per Click: 0.5 MOA
- W&E Travel Range: ±50 MOA
The Holosun HS510C Open Reflex Red Dot Sight is the best handgun red dot for astigmatism. It stands out as an easy to use optic that combines durability, versatility, and advanced features to enhance shooting accuracy.
This sight features a multi-reticle system of 2 MOA dot and 65 MOA circle reticle. This providing flexibility in various shooting distances and a precise aiming point while maintaining a wide field of view. The green light wavelength of 540nm offers excellent visibility in various lighting conditions, and the sight is designed to be parallax-free with unlimited eye relief.
Another selling point of this red dot sight is its impressive 50,000-hour battery life. It significantly reduces the frequency of battery changes and ensuring reliability during extended use. Furthermore, the sight includes ten daylight brightness settings and two night vision settings, allowing for seamless adjustment to changing light conditions.
Construction-wise, it is built with a robust aluminum housing and a titanium hood to withstand the rigors of harsh environments and heavy recoil. Other than that, the adjustments are user-friendly, with 0.5 MOA per click for windage and elevation, and a substantial travel range of ±50 MOA that allows for precise zeroing and adaptability to various shooting scenarios.
Pros
- Dual reticle options for flexibility
- Long battery life of 50,000 hours
- Durable construction with aluminum and titanium
- Wide range of brightness settings with night vision compatibility
- Large viewing window
Cons
- Relatively large size may not suit all handgun setups
2) Vortex Spitfire 1x-AR Prism Scope
Specifications
- Reticle: DRT MOA
- Illumination Color: Red, Green
- Brightness Settings: 12
- Length: 4.3 in
- Material: Aluminum Alloy Chassis
- Weight: 11.2 oz
- Adjustment Click Value: 0.5 MOA
- Eye Relief: 3.8 in
- Battery life: 3000 hrs
The Vortex Spitfire 1x-AR Prism Scope is a robust and reliable optic optimized for versatility. This high-performing prism scope is a worth addition for individuals with astigmatism who are looking to enhance their shooting performance.
Featuring a DRT MOA reticle, this scope provides an excellent balance between speed and precision. This makes it suitable for a wide range of shooting scenarios. The reticle illumination is versatile, offering both red and green color options with 12 brightness settings for optimal visibility in various lighting conditions.
With an eye relief of 3.8 inches, the Spitfire ensures comfortable viewing while maintaining a safe distance from the scope, particularly beneficial during rapid target acquisition. Moreover, this scope also has precise adjustment click value of 0.5 MOA to ensure accuracy in all shooting scenarios.
The build quality of the Vortex Spitfire 1x-AR Prism Scope is also exceptional. It is built with an aluminum alloy chassis that is both durable and lightweight. At just 11.2 ounces and a length of 4.3 inches, it adds minimal weight and bulk to your rifle, preserving maneuverability.
Pros
- Versatile DRT MOA reticle with red and green illumination
- 12 brightness settings for optimal visibility
- Durable and lightweight aluminum alloy chassis
- Precise 0.5 MOA adjustment click value
Cons:
- Highest brightness settings can drain the battery faster
3) Holosun HS507C-X2 1x 2 MOA Dot Reflex Red Dot Sight
Specifications
- Reticle: 2 MOA Dot & 32 MOA Circle
- Battery life: 20,000 hrs
- Weight: 1.5 oz
- Brightness settings: 12
- Adjustment Click Value: 1 MOA
- Red/Green illumination
- Attachment/Mount Type: RMR
- Eye Relief: Unlimited
The Holosun HS507C-X2 1x 2 MOA Dot Reflex Red Dot Sight is the best handgun red dot sight for astigmatism for anyone looking for a versatile and rugged optic. It is designed to meet the needs of a wide range of shooters in virtually all lighting conditions.
Featuring a 2 MOA dot surrounded by a 32 MOA circle, this sight provides a highly visible aiming point for quick target acquisition and precision shooting. Additionally, the unique reticle design allows for both rapid close-quarters engagements and precise long-range shots.
With a remarkable battery life of up to 20,000 hours, this red dot sight ensures long-term reliability without frequent battery changes. On top of that, it has a lightweight construction weighing in at just 1.5 ounces. This ensures that it does not add unnecessary weight to your handgun.
Regarding illumination, the HS507C-X2 boasts 12 brightness settings for optimal visibility in various lighting conditions. The sight’s red and green illumination options also cater to different user preferences and specific shooting scenarios. Over and above that, the RMR-compatible mounting system ensures easy and secure attachment to a variety of firearms while the unlimited eye relief offers flexibility in mounting positions, accommodating different shooting styles and preferences.
Pros
- Versatile reticle with 2 MOA dot and 32 MOA circle
- Impressive 20,000-hour battery life
- Lightweight design for portability and convenience
- 12 brightness settings for optimal reticle visibility in varied lighting conditions
- Precise 1 MOA adjustment click value
Cons
- The learning curve for those new to multi-reticle systems
4) Primary Arms SLx Compact 1×20 Prism Red Dot Sight
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Reticle: ACSS Cyclops
- Illumination Color: Red
- Adjustment Click Value: 0.5 MOA
- Attachment/Mount Type: Picatinny
- Battery life: 3,000 hours
- Brightness settings:11
- Adjustment Click Value: 0.5 MOA
- Material: 6061 Aluminum
- Battery Type: CR2032
The Primary Arms SLx Compact 1×20 Prism Red Dot Sight is a robust and multi-platform friendly optic designed for shooters who demand precision and reliability. This sight has a compact size and lightweight design that makes it an excellent choice for both tactical and recreational shooters.
The highlight of this red dot sight is its construction quality. Made from durable 6061 aluminum it is rigid enough to withstand the rigors of both field use and tactical applications. Moreover, the optical tube is fully sealed to lock out dust and moisture that can damage the optics.
Reticle-wise, the ACSS Cyclops reticle is illuminated in red to provide quick target acquisition and accuracy. Besides, its brightness is adjustable into 11 brightness settings for optimal visibility in different lighting conditions. This reticle remains clear and visible even without illumination, which is a significant advantage in battery conservation or sudden battery failure.
Moreover, the sight’s adjustment click value of 0.5 MOA allows for fine-tuning, ensuring precise shot placement. Mounted via a Picatinny attachment, the SLx Compact 1×20 Prism Red Dot is compatible with a wide range of firearms. It also boasts a battery life of 3,000 hours, powered by a CR2032 battery. The long battery life reduces the frequency of battery changes and maintains performance during extended use.
Pros
- Durable construction from 6061 aluminum
- Versatile ACSS Cyclops reticle with red illumination
- 11 brightness settings for use in various lighting conditions
- Clear reticle visibility without illumination
- Precise 0.5 MOA adjustment click value
- Compatible with Picatinny mounts
Cons
- None
Next Read: 8 Best LPVO Scopes for AR-15
Criteria for Choosing the Best Handgun Red Dot for Astigmatism
Choosing the best handgun red dot for astigmatism involves considering several factors to ensure clarity and usability. Here are some of the key factors to take into consideration.
Dot Clarity
Look for red dot sights that offer a clear, crisp dot. Astigmatism can cause the dot to appear blurry or distorted. Some sights use different technologies, like holographic sights or prism sights, which may appear clearer to those with astigmatism compared to traditional LED red dots.
Dot Size and Shape
Opt for a red dot sight that allows you to adjust the size and shape of the dot. A smaller dot size can sometimes appear sharper to individuals with astigmatism. Some sights also offer different reticle options beyond the standard dot, such as crosshairs or chevrons, which are easier to distinguish.
Brightness Settings
Multiple brightness settings is what sets apart the best handgun red dot for astigmatism from the cheap ones. Choose a sight with more than eight adjustable brightness settings. This allows you to find the optimal brightness level that reduces the halo or starburst effect that astigmatism can cause around the dot.
Coating and Lens Quality
Next, consider red dot sights with high-quality coatings and lenses. The coating help in reducing glare and improving light transmission, especially in low-light settings. This results in enhanced clarity of the dot for easy aiming.
Battery Life
The battery life of a red dot sight can make or break your shooting. Check the battery life of the sight and settle for a model with a long-lasting battery as frequent adjustments may be needed to find the best brightness setting for your astigmatism. Longer battery life also reduces the need for frequent replacements or recharges.
Build Quality
The best handgun red dot for astigmatism is crafted with durability in mind. The chassis should be made with hard-wearing materials like magnesium alloy or aircraft-quality aluminum. Furthermore, it is wise to get a red dot sight that is fully waterproof and shockproof.
Size and Weight
Handguns call for compact and lightweight red dot sights. A compact optic will not get in your way of shooting or affects the handguns ease of concealment. With weight, a light red dot sight is easy to install and carry around.
Ease of Use
Last but not least, check if the red dot sight is built with ease of use in mind. Whether you are a veteran or a beginner in shooting, ensure the sight you settle for is easy to mount, zero, and adjust. Some sights offer tool-less adjustments, which can be convenient for quick modifications in the field.
User Reviews and Recommendations: Read reviews from other shooters, especially those who also have astigmatism. Their experiences can provide insights into which sights work best for managing astigmatism-related issues
FAQs
- What is astigmatism, and how does it affect red dot sights?
Astigmatism is a condition where the cornea or lens of the eye is irregularly shaped, causing blurred vision. This can make red dot sights appear distorted or starburst-shaped instead of a crisp dot.
- Should I consider magnifiers or other accessories to help with astigmatism?
Yes. Most shooters find that adding a magnifier behind the red dot sight can help them see a sharper dot. Experimenting with different distances and eye relief might also improve dot clarity.
- Do green red dots work better for people with astigmatism?
The human eye perceives green light differently from red light, and individuals with astigmatism might find that green reticles appear crisper and more distinct. However, the effectiveness varies among individuals, and there is no definitive rule that green is universally superior for astigmatism.
Final Words
I hope that this article on the best handgun red dot for astigmatism has been insightful and helpful to you. When making your selection, opt for a high-performance red dot sight from a reputable brand for quality and reliability assurance.