Finding the best red dots for Mossberg 835 can greatly enhance your shooting accuracy, whether you’re a hunter or a competitive shooter. Red dot sights offer fast target acquisition, precision aiming, and improved shooting performance.
When choosing the right optic for your Mossberg 835, consider durability, battery life, and the reticle size. With a variety of options designed to withstand recoil and provide reliable performance, selecting a red dot sight tailored to your needs will ensure better precision and speed when firing your shotgun.
These optics are perfect for maximizing the potential of the Mossberg 835, whether you’re aiming at moving targets or focusing on long-range shots.
About the Mossberg 835
The Mossberg 835 Ulti-Mag is a rugged and versatile 12-gauge shotgun known for its impressive performance and reliability. With the ability to chamber 2.75″, 3″, and 3.5″ shotshells, it offers flexibility for different shooting applications.
The 835 Ulti-Mag features Mossberg’s signature overbored barrels, which provide 10-gauge dimensions throughout the barrel’s length, reducing pellet deformation and resulting in tighter, more uniform patterns. This feature enhances accuracy, making it a popular choice for both hunters and sport shooters.
Additionally, the shotgun includes clean-out magazine tubes, dual extractors, and steel-to-steel lockup, ensuring smooth operation and durability. For added convenience, many Mossberg 835 models are optic-ready, allowing shooters to easily mount red dot sights for improved targeting.
With interchangeable chokes and the option for combo barrel models, the Mossberg 835 is designed for multi-season use, providing a reliable firearm for a variety of shooting needs.
5 Best Red Dots For Mossberg 835
1) Vortex Venom Red Dot Sight – 3 MOA Dot
Vortex Optics Venom Red Dot Sight 3 MOA Dot is an outstanding option for those looking to enhance their Mossberg 835, offering a combination of precision, durability, and ease of use. With a 3 MOA (Minute of Angle) dot, this sight promotes fast target acquisition, helping you get your shots on target quickly and accurately.
Whether you’re on the range or in the field, the Venom is designed to stand up to tough conditions with its rugged aluminum housing that ensures durability even when you’re dealing with heavy recoil.
One of the standout features of the Venom is its high-quality, fully multi-coated lenses, which provide a clear, wide field of view, helping you track targets with ease. The sight offers 10 adjustable brightness settings that are conveniently controlled via a dial located on the left side of the sight.
Additionally, the auto-brightness mode automatically adjusts the intensity of the dot based on ambient lighting, giving shooters a more intuitive and customizable experience. The parallax-free design ensures you maintain accuracy regardless of eye relief, making it a reliable choice for quick and precise shooting.
The 1 MOA windage and elevation adjustments are sleek and user-friendly, allowing for quick sighting in and fine-tuning. The top-load battery system means you won’t need to remove the sight to replace the CR1632 battery, which makes maintenance quick and hassle-free.
Pros
- Clear, wide field of view with fully multi-coated lenses.
- Lightweight yet durable aluminum housing.
- Easy-to-use brightness settings and intuitive controls.
- Auto-brightness mode adjusts intensity based on lighting conditions.
- Parallax-free for improved accuracy at varying distances.
- Quick, tool-free battery replacement with top-load design.
Cons
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The 3 MOA dot may be too small for some users, especially at longer distances.
2) Trijicon RMR Type 2 Adjustable LED Reflex Sight – 3.25 MOA
The Trijicon RMR Type 2 Adjustable LED Reflex Sight is an excellent choice for enhancing the performance of your Mossberg 835, offering a combination of precision, ruggedness, and versatility. The RMR Type 2 features a patented housing design that absorbs impacts and diverts stresses away from the lens, making it extremely durable even in the most demanding environments.
Whether you’re using your Mossberg for hunting, target shooting, or self-defense, this sight is built to handle heavy recoil and rough conditions with ease.
One of the standout features of the RMR Type 2 is its redesigned and upgraded electronics, which are engineered for top performance when mounted on various firearms, including pistols and rifles. The RMR Type 2 puts control of the illumination in the user’s hands with easy-to-use buttons located on the sides of the optic.
These buttons allow you to adjust brightness levels, toggle between manual and automatic modes, and power down the sight for storage. The automatic mode adjusts the dot’s brightness based on ambient light conditions, while the manual mode lets you set your preferred intensity.
The sight also includes a lockout feature, which prevents accidental button presses from interfering with the aiming solution, ensuring you’re always ready for your next shot.
The 3.25 MOA dot size is ideal for a range of shooting applications, offering a balance between precision and ease of target acquisition. It is small enough for accurate shooting at longer ranges yet large enough for fast target acquisition, making it versatile for both close-quarters and distance shooting. Additionally, the RMR Type 2 is compatible with night vision devices, making it suitable for low-light and nighttime conditions.
Pros
- Durable patented housing design absorbs impacts and diverts stress away from the lens.
- Redesigned electronics provide reliable performance under heavy recoil.
- Adjustable illumination with manual and automatic modes for customizable use.
- Lockout feature prevents accidental button presses.
- 3.25 MOA dot size is versatile for both close-quarters and long-range shooting.
- Night vision compatibility allows use in low-light conditions.
Cons
- The sight’s price may be higher compared to some other red dots on the market.
3) Burris FastFire 3 Reflex Red Dot Sight – 3 MOA
The Burris FastFire 3 Reflex Red Dot Sight is a top choice for those looking to enhance their Mossberg 835 with a lightweight, durable, and highly versatile red dot sight. As one of Burris’s best-selling red dot sights, the FastFire 3 offers two reticle options—a 3 MOA dot for precise accuracy and an 8 MOA dot for quick target acquisition. This flexibility makes it ideal for both short-range engagements and longer-distance shots. Whether you’re shooting targets or hunting, the FastFire 3 helps you get your shots on target quickly and accurately.
One of the standout features of the FastFire 3 is its lightweight and compact design. It won’t add unnecessary weight to your Mossberg 835, ensuring the balance and handling of your firearm remain optimal. The sight’s toughness is built to withstand heavy recoil, making it a reliable choice for a wide range of firearms. The automatic brightness sensor adjusts the red dot’s intensity based on environmental conditions, ensuring the dot remains visible in varying light. For more control, the FastFire 3 also offers three manual brightness settings, allowing you to adjust the dot for different lighting conditions.
Battery life is another strong point, with the FastFire 3 offering up to 5 years of use, thanks to its efficient power system and automatic time-out feature. The top-mounted battery compartment makes battery changes simple, and the sight includes a low battery warning indicator to let you know when it’s time for a replacement. For added peace of mind, the Burris FastFire 3 is backed by the Burris Forever Warranty, ensuring long-term reliability.
Pros
- Available with 3 MOA or 8 MOA dot options for different shooting scenarios.
- Lightweight and compact design that won’t affect firearm balance or handling.
- Automatic brightness sensor adjusts to environmental lighting, plus three manual settings for added control.
- Top-access battery compartment for easy and convenient battery changes.
- Extended battery life of up to 5 years with automatic time-out feature.
- Shockproof and waterproof construction ensures durability in tough conditions.
- Backed by Burris’s Forever Warranty for long-term reliability.
Cons
- Limited brightness settings
4) Holosun HS510C Reflex Red Dot Sight – 2 MOA Dot & 65 MOA Circle
The Holosun HS510C Reflex Red Dot Sight is an exceptional choice for enhancing the performance of your Mossberg 835, combining cutting-edge technology and durability in a compact and versatile package. Designed specifically for long gun applications, the HS510C features a rugged aluminum housing with a titanium hood, ensuring resilience against heavy recoil and harsh conditions. Whether you’re using your Mossberg 835 for hunting, tactical shooting, or home defense, the HS510C offers both reliability and high performance.
One of the standout features of the Holosun HS510C is its Multi-Reticle System (MRS). This system allows you to choose between a 65 MOA circle with a 2 MOA dot for fast target acquisition at short distances or just the 2 MOA dot for more precise, long-range shooting. The large circle is perfect for fast target tracking, while the 2 MOA dot ensures accuracy when focusing on smaller targets. You can deactivate the circle, leaving only the 2 MOA dot for an uncluttered sight picture, enhancing precision.
The Shake Awake technology is another key feature, extending battery life by turning off the LED when the sight isn’t in use. The optic will automatically reactivate at the slightest movement, ensuring it’s always ready when you need it. Additionally, the Solar Failsafe ensures that you’ll never be caught without a working reticle. If the battery fails, the sight can draw power from ambient light to keep the reticle illuminated, adjusting its brightness to match the surrounding light conditions. This makes the HS510C ideal for low-light situations and ensures you’re always on target.
With a 50,000-hour battery life, multiple brightness settings, and a parallax-free design with unlimited eye relief, the Holosun HS510C offers an exceptional balance of performance, durability, and convenience.
Pros
- Multi-Reticle System offers versatility for both short-range and long-range shooting.
- Shake Awake technology extends battery life and ensures the sight is always ready to use.
- Solar Failsafe backup power system ensures operation even if the battery fails.
- Durable aluminum housing with a titanium hood for added shock resistance.
- 50,000-hour battery life with 10 daylight brightness settings and 2 NV settings.
- Parallax-free with unlimited eye relief for fast target acquisition.
- Comes with a QD absolute co-witness mount for easy setup and use.
Cons
- Larger and heavier compared to some other reflex sights
5) Sig Sauer Romeo5 1x20mm Compact Red Dot Sight – 2 MOA
The Sig Sauer Romeo5 1x20mm Compact Red Dot Sight is an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their Mossberg 835 with a reliable and durable optic. Despite its compact size, the Romeo5 offers high-performance features that make it ideal for hunting, tactical shooting, or even competitive shooting.
Its lightweight aluminum construction ensures both durability and longevity, providing the ruggedness needed for demanding environments while maintaining a lightweight profile that won’t compromise the balance of your firearm.
A standout feature of the Romeo5 is its 2 MOA red dot, which is perfect for precise targeting. Whether you’re aiming at a moving target or engaging at various distances, the small 2 MOA dot ensures accuracy while offering adjustable brightness settings. The sight features 10 illumination settings, including 8 daylight settings and 2 night vision settings, ensuring optimal visibility in any lighting conditions, whether you’re out in broad daylight or in low-light environments.
The Motion Activated Illumination (MOTAC) technology is another reason why the Romeo5 stands out. This feature conserves battery life by automatically turning off the sight when it is not in use and instantly reactivating it at the slightest movement or vibration. This ensures the optic is always ready to use, maximizing efficiency and extending battery life, which is essential for long hunting trips or extended shooting sessions.
In addition to its performance features, the Romeo5 comes with a versatile Picatinny mount, providing compatibility with a wide range of firearms. Whether you prefer to mount it low or co-witness with your sights, the included M1913 Picatinny low mount riser and co-witness 1.41″ riser mount ensure you have the proper height for quick target acquisition and a clear sight picture.
Built to withstand the elements, the IPX-7 waterproof and fogproof construction guarantees reliable performance in all weather conditions. Whether it’s rain, snow, or intense heat, the Romeo5 will continue to deliver solid performance. With unlimited eye relief, the sight allows you to acquire the aiming point and target quickly, no matter your shooting position.
Pros
- 2 MOA red dot provides precise aiming for accurate shooting.
- 10 illumination settings (8 daylight, 2 NV) for optimal visibility in all lighting conditions.
- MOTAC technology extends battery life by automatically turning off when not in use and reactivating at the slightest movement.
- Lightweight, durable aluminum housing ensures long-lasting performance.
- Includes a versatile Picatinny mount, low mount riser, and co-witness riser mount for easy compatibility.
- Waterproof and fogproof (IPX-7 rated) for use in any weather conditions.
- Unlimited eye relief for fast target acquisition from any shooting position.
Cons
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Battery is not included, requiring an additional purchase.
Factors To Consider When Buying The Best Red Dots For Mossberg 835
Reticle Size and Type
When selecting a red dot sight for your Mossberg 835, one of the most important considerations is the reticle size. The size of the red dot affects how easily you can acquire your target and how precise your shot will be. Smaller reticle sizes, like a 2 MOA dot, offer greater precision for long-range shots, while larger dots, such as an 8 MOA, help with quick target acquisition in close-range scenarios. Depending on your shooting needs, choose a reticle size that offers the best balance between speed and accuracy for your specific use case, whether it’s hunting or tactical shooting.
Durability and Build Quality
The durability of a red dot sight is crucial, especially when mounting it on a shotgun like the Mossberg 835, which generates significant recoil. A sight with a robust construction made from high-quality materials such as aluminum or titanium will withstand the shocks and vibrations associated with repeated use. A rugged, shockproof design ensures the sight maintains its accuracy and functionality over time. Look for a sight that is rated to endure harsh conditions, from rain to dust, to ensure longevity and consistent performance in the field.
Battery Life
Battery life is a critical factor when selecting a red dot sight, especially for extended outdoor activities like hunting or long-range shooting sessions. Opt for a sight with a long battery life to minimize the need for frequent battery changes. Features such as motion-activated illumination or solar backup power can significantly extend battery life by ensuring the sight remains off when not in use, yet instantly activates when needed. Long battery life allows you to focus on your shooting without worrying about power interruptions.
Illumination Settings
Another important factor to consider is the sight’s illumination settings. A good red dot sight should offer multiple brightness levels to accommodate different lighting conditions, from bright sunlight to low-light environments like dawn or dusk. Some sights also feature automatic brightness adjustment, which adjusts the reticle’s intensity based on ambient light conditions. This feature ensures optimal visibility without having to manually adjust the brightness every time the light changes. Adjustable brightness provides versatility for various shooting situations.
Eye Relief and Field of View
Eye relief and field of view are essential when using a red dot sight on a Mossberg 835. A sight with unlimited eye relief allows for quick target acquisition from any shooting position, without the need to align your eye perfectly behind the sight. This is especially beneficial when shooting from unconventional positions or during fast-paced situations. Additionally, a wide field of view ensures you can quickly locate your target while keeping the reticle in view. A sight with both good eye relief and a wide field of view enhances your overall shooting experience.
Mounting Options and Compatibility
Before purchasing a red dot sight, check for compatibility with your Mossberg 835. Some red dot sights come with integrated mounting systems, while others may require separate mounts to fit onto your shotgun. Ideally, you want a sight that offers versatile mounting options, such as a Picatinny rail mount or co-witness riser mounts, which ensure secure attachment and a comfortable shooting position. Make sure the sight is compatible with your shotgun’s rail system to ensure a smooth and stable mounting process.
Weather Resistance
Weather resistance is another crucial factor to consider, especially if you plan to use your Mossberg 835 in challenging environmental conditions. Look for a red dot sight that is waterproof, fogproof, and resistant to dust. This ensures that the sight performs consistently regardless of weather conditions, whether you’re shooting in the rain, fog, or extreme temperatures. A reliable, weatherproof sight allows you to focus on your shot without worrying about the elements compromising its performance.
Cost and Warranty
While a higher price tag often correlates with more advanced features and better durability, it’s important to find a red dot sight that fits within your budget while still offering the necessary features for your shooting needs. Consider the value of the sight in relation to its performance and longevity. Additionally, check if the manufacturer offers a warranty to back up the product. A solid warranty ensures peace of mind, knowing that you’re covered in case of defects or malfunctions, further enhancing the value of your investment.
Best Red Dots For Mossberg 835 Frequently Asked Questions
1) What is the best reticle size for a Mossberg 835 red dot sight?
The ideal reticle size for a Mossberg 835 depends on your shooting style and range requirements. A smaller reticle size, such as 2 MOA, is great for precise shots at longer distances, while a larger reticle like 8 MOA is better suited for quick target acquisition at closer ranges. Choosing the right size depends on whether you prioritize accuracy or speed.
2) Can I use a red dot sight for hunting with a Mossberg 835?
Yes, red dot sights are an excellent choice for hunting with the Mossberg 835. They provide fast target acquisition, which is crucial for moving targets. Additionally, many red dot sights are designed to handle the recoil of shotguns, making them a reliable option for hunters who need precision and durability in the field.
3) How long does the battery last on a red dot sight for the Mossberg 835?
Battery life varies depending on the sight and settings used. Some red dot sights offer up to 50,000 hours of battery life, especially those equipped with motion-activated technology that conserves power. Battery life can also be extended with features like solar power or automatic brightness adjustment, ensuring the sight remains functional for extended periods.
Conclusion
Choosing the best red dot sight for your Mossberg 835 ensures enhanced accuracy and efficiency, whether you’re in the field hunting or engaging in tactical shooting. A quality red dot provides fast target acquisition, precise aiming, and reliable performance under various conditions.
Many sights are specifically built to withstand the recoil of shotguns, ensuring they remain zeroed and dependable. Features such as adjustable brightness settings, extended battery life, and weather-resistant construction further enhance the value of these optics, making them a great addition to your shooting setup.
By investing in the right red dot sight, you enhance both your shooting experience and overall effectiveness, helping you perform at your best in any situation.
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