Best Red Dot Sight for Astigmatism: Top 9 in 2023

Finding the perfect red dot sight for your needs can be tricky if you have astigmatism. Sure, many sights out there claim to be compatible with astigmatic eyes, but do they deliver? First off:

What is astigmatism?

Have you ever seen a distorted or blurry light source resembling a starburst? If so, you may be experiencing astigmatism, a common vision condition that causes blurred or distorted vision.

It is not an alien invasion in your eyes but rather a small irregularity in the shape of your cornea or lens. Think of it as your eye deciding to be more of a unique ‘rugby ball’ shape than a perfect ‘football.’ Now, let’s consider the best red dot sights for astigmatism. When you line up your shot and glance through your red dot sight, you may see a burst of light or a comet-like shape instead of a crisp, clean dot.

Is your sight defective? Not necessarily! 

This could be astigmatism showing its sneaky face. Red dot sights with illuminated reticles can highlight astigmatism in your vision that you may not have noticed before. While trying to improve your aim, your eyes may be playing their version of ‘hide and seek.’ This can be frustrating, but understanding this connection is the first step to finding a solution.

What can you do?

You should schedule an appointment with your optometrist to get your eyes checked for astigmatism. They can perform a thorough eye examination and recommend corrective lenses or contacts to clear up any starburst effect you may be experiencing when looking through your red dot sight.

Consider using a sight with a smaller dot, as it can appear less distorted and provide a clearer image.

Additionally, prism or etched reticle sights are a great option as they do not rely on a projected dot and can help you overcome astigmatism. Remember, the goal here is to see one crisp, clean dot rather than a chaotic display. Here is a quick summary of the sights we are going to talk about below:

Best Red Dots for Astigmatism

1. Holosun HS503CU (Best Red Dot Sight)
2. Trijicon RMR Type 2 6.5 MOA
3. Vortex Venom
4. Eotech EXPS3 (Best Holographic Sight)
5. Holosun EPS (Best for Concealed Carry)
6. Holosun HS507C (Best for a pistol)
7. Vortex Optics Spitfire HD Gen II (Best Prism sight)
8. Primary Arms SLx 1
9. Holosun HE510C (Best Green Dot Sight)

Best magnifier to pair with: EOTECH G33 Magnifier.

Holosun HS503CU

The Holosun red dot sight is a highly regarded product in the shooting community due to its exceptional features and performance. Its sturdy design, impressive battery life, intuitive controls, and excellent sight picture make it stand out.

With a battery life of 50,000 hours on a single plate battery, this sight is incredibly reliable for long-term use without the need for frequent battery replacements. Additionally, the solar cell on top ensures optimal performance, even in low-light conditions.

In shooting performance, the Holosun excels with its circle dot reticle, making target acquisition quick and easy, even for those with astigmatism. The reticle is crisp and sharp, and the sight holds zero remarkably well, making it a trustworthy option for serious shooters.

Despite being more affordable than other brands like Aimpoint, the Holosun’s build quality is impressive, and its durability is commendable. Overall, this red dot sight offers outstanding value and performance for its price.

Pros:

• Outstanding battery life
• Solar cell supplement for optimal performance
• Quick and easy target acquisition
• Holds zero well
• Durable and robust build quality

Cons:

• Slight fuzziness at the highest brightness settings
• A lower price point may raise questions about long-term durability

The Holosun HS503CU has been an excellent investment and is the best red dot for astigmatism. It delivers impressive performance and is particularly suitable for those with astigmatism.

This red dot sight provides great value for its price and is a reliable option for anyone seeking a top-performing sight without spending a fortune. I would highly recommend considering the Holosun HS503CU as the one to buy.

Trijicon RMR Type 2 6.5 MOA

The Trijicon RMR Type 2 6.5 MOA red dot sight is popular with professionals and enthusiasts due to its robustness and reliability. Trijicon is well-known for producing high-quality and durable optics; this sight is no exception. Its build quality is exceptional, reflecting the brand’s reputation.

The RMR Type 2 is particularly noteworthy for its durability. This sight can withstand harsh conditions and still perform flawlessly, a testament to its excellent track record. The 6.5 MOA red dot is bright enough for outdoor use but not too bright for indoor conditions.

In terms of shooting performance, the RMR Type 2 performed exceptionally well. The dot was easy to acquire, and the sight held zero exceptionally well. Even when I removed the optic to replace the battery, I encountered no issues with zero shift. As someone with astigmatism, the dot appeared clear and sharp, making target acquisition quick and effortless.

Pros:

• Robust and reliable
• Bright, clear dot
• Holds zero exceptionally well
• Easy to mount and intuitive to use
• Adjustable for windage and elevation

Cons:

• Relatively expensive compared to other options
• Battery replacement requires the removal of the optic

Vortex Venom Red Dot Sight

The Vortex Venom Red Dot Sight is another popular choice for shooters due to its exceptional performance, durability, and affordability. The Vortex Venom’s robust design can withstand recoil and is impressively lightweight, with a sleek design that complements your firearm. 

One of the standout features of the Vortex Venom is its rapid target acquisition, making it an ideal choice for hunters. It comes equipped with a precise and visible 3 MOA dot. Additionally, it offers a simple top-load battery system, which means replacing the battery does not require removing the sight. 

When it comes to shooting performance, the Vortex Venom exceeds expectations. The red dot is sharp and bright, even on the lowest setting, making target acquisition fast and effortless. In my experience, the sight held zero exceptionally well, and the dot was clear and sharp, even with my astigmatism.

Pros:

• Durable and rugged build quality
• Fast target acquisition
• Sleek, lightweight design
• Top-load battery system
• Holds zero well

Cons:

• Some users may prefer a larger MOA dot for close-range shooting
• Not as robust as some higher-priced options

Overall, the Vortex Venom Red Dot Sight delivers excellent performance at a reasonable price point. It’s a solid choice for anyone with astigmatism looking for a reliable, high-performing red dot sight.

Holographic vs. Red Dot Astigmatism

If you have astigmatism, red dot sights may be a better choice as they project the reticle onto a single point on the lens, making them easier to use. However, holographic sights create a 3D image of the reticle within the sight itself, which can be challenging for those with astigmatism. Although holographic sights offer faster target acquisition and a wider field of view, they may not be the best option if you have astigmatism. Generally, red dot sights are more suitable for people with astigmatism.

If you have an astigmatism and are set on getting a holographic sight, here is the best one for you:

Best Holographic Sight for Astigmatism

Eotech EXPS3

I recently had the opportunity to use the EOTech EXPS3 holographic weapon sight and was thoroughly impressed. Known for its versatility and night vision compatibility, the EXPS3 is highly regarded for its robustness, reliability, and long battery life. 

Designed with durability in mind, the EXPS3 features a hard coat aluminum hood assembly and a knurled, tool-less mounting bolt, making it a solid choice for rigorous use in various weather conditions. It’s also fog, water, and shockproof, ensuring it can handle whatever conditions you encounter.

One of the most impressive features of the EXPS3 is its zero parallax, which means that the aim point remains on target regardless of the viewer’s position. This is especially useful for shooters with astigmatism, as it reduces eye strain and enhances accuracy.

While using the EXPS3, I found it provided incredibly fast target acquisition, and the reticle was clear and sharp. The side buttons were convenient and easy to use, and the sight held zero exceptionally well. I highly recommend the EOTech EXPS3 to anyone needing a reliable and versatile holographic weapon sight.

Pros:

• Robust and reliable
• Fogproof, waterproof, and shockproof
• Fast target acquisition
• Zero parallax
• Long battery life
• Night vision compatible

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to other options
• Some users may prefer a smaller dot for long-range precision

If you have astigmatism and are looking for a red dot sight that is versatile, durable, and high-performing, the EOTech EXPS3 is an excellent choice. Although it may be priced higher, the quality and performance of this sight make it a worthwhile investment.

Best for Concealed Carry

Holosun EPS

The Holosun EPS is a reliable red dot sight that has gained popularity among shooters due to its great performance and value.

It has a sturdy build quality with an enclosed design that shields the sight from environmental factors.

One of its exceptional features is the multiple reticle system, which enables users to toggle between a single 2 MOA dot, a 32 MOA ring only, or a combination of both. Additionally, it boasts a long battery life, an essential factor for any dedicated shooter.

During shooting, I found the Holosun EPS to perform exceptionally well. The reticle was relatively clear. The sight held zero remarkably well, and the green dot option benefitted my astigmatism.

Pros:

• Robust build quality
• Multiple reticle system
• Long battery life
• The green dot option is beneficial for astigmatism

Cons:

• Some users have reported the reticles appearing blurry
• It may require some adjustment for optimal performance with astigmatism

In conclusion, the Holosun EPS is a reliable, high-performing red dot sight offering excellent value. Its multiple reticle system and green dot option make it a strong contender for those dealing with astigmatism.

Best Pistol Red Dot for Astigmatism 

Holosun HS507C

This product is highly regarded for its durability, advanced features, and impressive specifications, making it a top choice for those with astigmatism. Based on my personal experience, I am providing a detailed review.

The HS507C is constructed with a robust design instills confidence in its longevity. It is also lightweight and compact, allowing for easy mounting on most firearms. The sight can withstand even the most rigorous shooting sessions.

Additionally, the Shake Awake technology automatically turns the sight on and off when motion is detected, preserving battery life without affecting readiness.

As someone with astigmatism, I was particularly interested in the product’s performance. I am pleased to report that the HS507C exceeded my expectations.

The sight provided clear and crisp images, and the red dot was easy to pick up, even for a novice shooter like myself. The larger 10 MOA reticle size allowed for faster and more intuitive target acquisition, a significant advantage for astigmatism patients.

The sight maintained its accuracy throughout my testing, proving to be a reliable partner in close-quarters and longer-range shooting scenarios. The field of view was impressive, providing a broad perspective that enhanced situational awareness.

Pros:

• Durable and sturdy construction
• Versatile multi-reticle system
• Excellent automatic brightness adjustment
• Innovative Shake Awake technology
• Great for astigmatism with clear reticle and easy target acquisition

Cons:

• Some may find the auto-off feature a bit sensitive
• While compatible with most firearms, it may not fit all models seamlessly

Best Prism Sight for Astigmatism

A prism sight, also known as a prismatic sight, can be an excellent choice for individuals with astigmatism. Here’s why:

Etched Reticle: Prism sights typically have an etched reticle, unlike red dot sights that use a projected reticle. The reticle is physically etched into the glass and can be seen without illumination. A prism sight can provide a much clearer and more distinct aiming point, which can help reduce any starburst or blur effect you may encounter with a red dot sight.

Adjustable Diopter: When using prism sights, shooters can adjust the diopter to achieve better focus. This is particularly useful for people with astigmatism, as it allows them to tailor the sight picture to their specific vision requirements. The end result is a more precise and distinct image of the target.

Magnification: Prism sights usually have a limited amount of magnification that ranges from 1x to 5x. This feature can help individuals with astigmatism to aim at far-off targets, which is often difficult with a regular red dot sight.

Less Eye Strain: Due to the etched reticle and the ability to adjust the diopter, prism sights can reduce eye strain.

Here is the best prism sight for astigmatism:

Vortex Optics Spitfire HD Gen II

I have had the opportunity to use the Vortex Optics Spitfire HD Gen II prism scope, another one of the best red dot for astigmatism, and can provide a comprehensive review based on my personal experience. This scope is gaining popularity within the shooting community due to its solid build, innovative features, and high-grade specs. It is particularly suitable for individuals with astigmatism.

The Spitfire HD Gen II is a testament to Vortex Optics’ commitment to quality. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to mount on most firearms without adding excessive weight or bulk. Despite its small size, it can withstand rigorous use, as proven by my extensive testing on my AR-15.

This scope has a BDC reticle optimized for 5.56 cartridges, enabling rapid target acquisition and holdovers up to 650 yards. This feature significantly enhances its versatility and usability in different shooting conditions.

One of the standout features of this sight is its superb optical performance. The glass provides excellent resolution, and the illumination settings allow optimal visibility in various lighting conditions.

As someone with astigmatism, I was particularly interested in how the Spitfire HD Gen II would perform. I’m pleased to report that it delivered impressively. The reticle was bright and clear, making target acquisition easy.

This is especially crucial for those with astigmatism, as it can be challenging to find and focus on the reticle. Moreover, the sight maintained accuracy throughout my testing, establishing itself as a reliable tool in close-quarters and longer-range shooting scenarios.

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight design
• BDC reticle optimized for 5.56 cartridges
• Excellent optical performance
• Great for astigmatism with bright, clear reticle

Cons:

• Some users might wish for additional illumination settings
• Although it fits most firearms, compatibility issues may arise with some models

The Vortex Optics Spitfire HD Gen II is an excellent red dot sight that provides exceptional value for its cost. Its durability, versatility, and premium features make it a top contender for the best red dot sight for astigmatism. Regardless of your skill level as a shooter, whether you’re a pro or a beginner, the Spitfire HD Gen II is worth considering for its impressive performance and reliable accuracy.

Primary Arms SLx 1x Micro Prism Scope

Let’s start by discussing the build quality of the SLx 1x Micro Prism sight. This optic is compact and lightweight, similar to the Aimpoint T2. Despite its small size, it is extremely durable and well-made, making it a great value at around $270 for its exceptional optics.

Moving on to the features, this micro prism optic has 1X magnification with outstanding clarity and brightness. Its automatic ‘on’ illumination feature for home defense is a huge benefit, and the etched reticle works even without batteries. It also offers true daytime brightness and two-night vision settings.

Regarding shooting performance, the SLx 1x Micro Prism was quite impressive. The reticle worked exceptionally well, and the glass quality was decent, with good color and no distortion. As someone with astigmatism, I found the sight picture clear without blurriness or the starburst effect commonly found with red dot sights.

Overall, the Primary Arms SLx 1x Micro Prism Scope is a standout optic with its adaptable ACSS reticle design and excellent mounting features.

Pros:

• Top-notch optics
• Compact and lightweight
• Automatic ‘on’ illumination
• Works even without batteries
• Clear sight picture for those with astigmatism

To sum up, the Primary Arms SLx 1x Micro Prism Scope is a reliable option for anyone seeking a high-quality optic at an affordable cost. Its crystal-clear vision and absence of distortion make it particularly ideal for people with astigmatism.

Green vs. Red Dot for Astigmatism

If you have astigmatism, you may want to consider using a green dot sight, as our eyes naturally perceive green better than red. This can result in less distortion when using a green dot sight.

It’s important to note that the sight’s quality also matters. A high-end red dot sight may outperform a low-end green dot sight, even for those with astigmatism.

Some individuals may find red more comfortable or practical depending on the target they are focusing on. Trying different options to find what works best for you and what optic is optimal for astigmatism is crucial.

Here is the best green dot sight you can buy for your astigmatism: 

Best Green Dot for Astigmatism

Holosun HE510C GR Elite

Let’s start with the build quality of the Holosun HE510C GR Elite sight. It is a sturdy and well-built sight, measuring 5 x 3.75 x 3.5 inches and weighing only 0.52 pounds. Its compact size makes it easy to use while shooting and is suitable for long gun applications, making it versatile.

Moving on to the specs and features, this green solar reflex sight has a multi-reticle system, offering a parallax-free design and unlimited eye relief for a comfortable and straightforward sighting experience. Its solar cell and high-capacity battery set it apart, giving you two power supply options.

So, how does it perform in the field? Let me tell you, it’s a game-changer. The reticle is clear and distortion-free, which is a significant advantage for those with astigmatism. The open reflex design and circle dot reticle makes finding and focusing on the target easy, enhancing the user experience.

However, it’s worth noting that while the circle and dot reticles are more comfortable for those with astigmatism, they may not be as effective as a prism sight.

Pros:

• Robust and well-constructed
• Parallax-free design and unlimited eye relief
• Clear and distortion-free reticle
• Dual power supply options
• Comfortable circle dot reticle

Cons:

• It might not be as effective for astigmatism as a prism sight

Pair your Red Dot with a Magnifier

If you have astigmatism, investing in a magnifier in addition to your best red dot for astigmatism may be helpful.

A magnifier can ensure that the reticle remains clear and free of distortion. By amplifying your target image up to 3x, a magnifier can make it easier to pick out small details and hit your target. It can be beneficial for shooting at longer ranges, as the magnification allows for more precise and comfortable targeting. 

A magnifier can help with astigmatism in a few ways:

• Improved Reticle Clarity: A magnifier can make the reticle clearer and more precise.
• Adjustable Diopter: Most magnifiers have an adjustable diopter that can be customized to your vision requirements. This feature enables you to fine-tune the focus of the magnifier for optimal viewing. Adjusting the diopter to your eye allows you to correct for astigmatism and minimize any reticle distortion.
• Enhanced Target Details: When someone has astigmatism, the reticle may not appear clear, and the target may seem blurry. However, increasing the magnification of the image allows a more detailed and clearer view of the target, which may enhance accuracy.
• Reduced Eye Strain: If you have astigmatism and use a red dot sight, it may lead to eye strain as your eye finds it difficult to focus. A magnifier can alleviate this strain by offering a clearer and more focused image.

Best Magnifier for Astigmatism

So, if your budget allows it, don’t hesitate to invest in the best magnifier for Astigmatism:

EOTECH G33 Magnifier

If you’re looking for top-quality magnification to pair with your red dot sight, the EOTech G33 Magnifier is an excellent choice.

With its robust and durable design, this equipment offers 3x magnification, allowing you to focus on distant targets without compromising the speed and versatility of your red dot sight.

Moreover, the EOTech G33 Magnifier is built to withstand harsh conditions, and it’s both fog-proof and waterproof, ensuring that you can rely on it no matter the weather. Additionally, the adjustable diopter is a standout feature, which allows for precise focusing, especially if you have astigmatism.

You’ll find that the EOTech G33 Magnifier performs seamlessly, thanks to the Switch-To-Side (STS) mount, which allows for smooth and quick transitions from 1x to 3x. This feature ensures you can take on targets at various distances without missing a beat.

Pros:

• High-quality construction
• Adjustable diopter for reduced reticle distortion
• Smooth and quick transition from 1x to 3x

Cons:

• A bit heavy

Specifications Comparison

Red Dot Astigmatism Test

A reliable way to check for astigmatism is by photographing a red dot using a camera like your smartphone. If the dot looks flawless in the photo and blurry when looking at the sight directly, then the problem lies in your eyes and not your red dot sight.

Wrapping it Up

If you have astigmatism, the above suggestions can help you optimize your red dot sight’s performance, especially when paired with a magnifier.

Questions and Answers

Can you use a red dot if you have astigmatism?

If you have astigmatism, using a red dot sight is possible. However, it may appear as a starburst or a blurry blob. You can consider using corrective lenses or a different type of sight to obtain a clearer image.

What does a red dot look like with an astigmatism?

With astigmatism, a red dot sight may appear as a blurry blob, starburst, or smear instead of a sharp, distinct dot.

Is a red or green red dot better for astigmatism?

Green dot sights are generally considered better for people with astigmatism as they tend to distort less than red dots, although individual experiences may vary.

What red dots are good for astigmatism?

If you have astigmatism, prism sights like the Vortex Spitfire 3x Prism Scope may be your best option. These sights come with etched reticles that are often easier to see than traditional red dot sights.

What pistol red dot is best for astigmatism?

The Holosun HS507C is the best pistol red dot sight for astigmatism.

Why does my red dot look like a starburst?

Your red dot may look like a starburst due to astigmatism, an eye condition that distorts the way light enters your eye, or if the sight’s brightness is too high.

Why is my red dot not a perfect circle?

Your red dot may not appear as a perfect circle due to astigmatism.

Why does my red dot look like a line?

Your red dot may look like a line due to astigmatism.

Why does my red dot look like a comma?

Your red dot appearing as a comma could be due to astigmatism.

How to fix red dot astigmatism?

If you suffer from red dot astigmatism, a few solutions are available. You can opt for corrective lenses or optics with an etched reticle, like a prism sight. However, it is recommended that you seek personalized advice from an optometrist to determine the best course of action. Additionally, some of the best options for managing astigmatism include the best red dot for astigmatism, red dot with astigmatism, red dot astigmatism, astigmatism red dot, best optics for astigmatism, and the best pistol red dot for astigmatism.