Best Holographic Sights for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need
Published: August 15th, 2024

🎯Holographic sights have truly changed the game for modern shooting, providing unmatched speed, accuracy, and flexibility. Unlike old-school iron sights, these advanced optics are a must-have for things like competitive shooting, hunting, and even home defense.

Our deep dive into the topic aims to help you find the right holographic sight for your needs. Whether you're a seasoned pro, a hobbyist, or need something specific, we've handpicked the best options that offer stellar performance and reliability.

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Overall Best: EOTECH EXPS3

EOTECH EXPS3 Holographic Weapon Sight EXPS3-0

The EOTECH EXPS3 stands out as our overall best pick for its exceptional blend of durability, performance, and versatility. Known for its remarkably clear reticle, this model ensures reliable target acquisition both day and night, making it ideal for defensive scenarios. The EXPS3 is compatible with night vision devices and magnifiers, offering a broad range of adaptability. Reviews highlight its robust construction, capable of withstanding the harshest conditions, and commend its quick target acquisition, which is a crucial component for ensuring accuracy in high-pressure situations. If you're seeking a top-tier holographic sight that excels in various environments, the EOTECH EXPS3 is the ultimate choice.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$699.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the EOTECH EXPS3? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How do you zero the EOTECH EXPS3 holographic sight?
Getting your EOTECH EXPS3 Holographic Sight zeroed in is a great way to make sure your shooting is accurate and reliable. Basically, zeroing means you're aligning where your sight is aiming with where the bullet is actually going to hit. ### Here's How You Can Zero Your Sight: 1. **Get It Mounted**: Start by securely mounting your EXPS3 to your firearm. The quick detach lever makes it pretty easy to set up, just double-check that everything's tight and properly aligned. 2. **Find a Stable Spot**: Use a stable rest or shooting platform for your firearm. Having a stable setup is super important for precision. Try to find a location that's protected from the wind and any other disturbances. 3. **Set Up Your Target**: Place your target at your desired zeroing distance. A lot of folks go with 25 or 50 yards, but you can choose based on your purposes. 4. **Fire a Group of Shots**: Once you're set up, fire a group of three to five shots, aiming consistently at the same spot on the target. This will show you where your shots are landing. 5. **Check Out the Hits**: Look at where your bullets are hitting compared to where you aimed. Take note of any patterns in direction or distance from the bullseye. 6. **Make Adjustments**: Use the windage (left/right) and elevation (up/down) adjustments on your sight. With the EXPS3, each click moves the point of impact 1 inch at 100 yards, so you can get pretty precise. - **Windage Adjustments**: Adjust if your shots are too far left or right. - **Elevation Adjustments**: Make changes if your shots are too high or low. 7. **Refine Your Aim**: After making adjustments, fire another group to see if you need to tweak further. You might need to repeat this a few times. 8. **[Night Vision](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dnight%2Bvision%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) Settings**: If you're zeroing for night vision, do this in low-light conditions to get the right adjustments for those settings. ### Some Helpful Tips: - **Check the Manual**: Always give the manufacturer's manual a read. It'll have specific instructions for your device. - **Watch Out for Fakes**: Our research suggests buying from reputable sources only. Sometimes, fake or used items can cause issues. - **Ask for Help**: If you're just starting with zeroing, it could be helpful to check out online forums or talk to local firearms experts. With these steps, you should be able to get your EOTECH EXPS3 zeroed, enhancing your shooting accuracy. Just remember, patience and precision really matter in this process.
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What is the battery life of the EOTECH EXPS3 holographic sight?
So, if you're curious about the battery life of the EOTECH EXPS3 holographic sight, here's what we found. The manufacturer mentions it can run for up to 600 hours straight, which is like leaving it on for about 25 days. That's pretty solid, especially if you're into long trips or extended use in the field. Now, the actual battery life will depend on how you set the brightness—there are 20 daylight settings and 10 night vision modes. While 600 hours is the ideal scenario, adjusting these settings might affect it somewhat. Still, our research shows people usually find the battery life dependable. It's compatible with [Gen 1-3 night vision devices](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DGen%2B1-3%2Bnight%2Bvision%2Bdevices%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), so you've got plenty of flexibility. This adaptability is nice when you're dealing with different lighting, whether it's day or night. Despite using more juice in night vision settings, the EXPS3 seems to hold up well. From what we've seen, folks generally report that it conserves power efficiently. Plus, they appreciate how quickly you can acquire targets with it, which is a bonus across various shooting scenarios. Just one heads up: if you're seeing any reticle distortion, it might be your eyesight, like astigmatism—not the sight itself. Some folks found that a quick fix with corrective lenses helps. Overall, the EXPS3’s battery longevity is a significant plus, especially when reliability is a must.
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Is the EOTECH EXPS3 compatible with night vision devices?
Yeah, the EOTECH EXPS3 definitely works with night vision devices, and that's a big plus if you're dealing with tactical situations. It's specifically designed with this in mind, so you get extra settings to help out when you're in low light. The manufacturer's description mentions that it comes with buttons to switch between regular and night vision modes. This lets you tweak the brightness of the reticle while using night vision goggles, which helps keep things visible without messing with your night vision gear—pretty important if you need to be ready for anything at night. According to our research, one of the cool things about the EXPS3 is its reticle setup. It has a 68 MOA ring and a 1 MOA dot, which makes it great for quickly locking onto targets, especially at close to medium distances. The big ring makes it easier to line up your sight with the target, and the smaller dot helps with precise aiming, even when the lighting isn't great. But, just a heads up, if you have something like astigmatism, the holographic reticle might look a bit fuzzy or distorted. This seems to be an issue with a lot of holographic sights, not just this one, since they project the reticle directly into your line of sight. If you're worried about clarity, using corrective lenses or a magnifier might help, but it might not fix everything. You might want to check out other options like an [ACOG](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DACOG%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) if this is a big concern for you. All in all, the EXPS3's compatibility with night vision and its reticle design make it a solid choice if you need something that can perform well in different lighting conditions.

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Runner-up: Vortex UH-1 Gen II

Vortex Optics AMG UH-1 Gen II Holographic Sights UH-1 Holographic Sight

The Vortex UH-1 Gen II earns our runner-up spot thanks to its intuitive controls, excellent battery life, and rugged design. It's highly appreciated for offering generous eye relief and compatibility with magnifiers, enhancing its flexibility for multiple shooting scenarios. Users praise the clear reticle and rapid target acquisition, core features that round out its capabilities as a reliable holographic sight. Built to last and perform under continuous use, the UH-1 Gen II is a solid option if you prioritize both performance and long-term reliability in your optic equipment.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$544.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Vortex AMG UH-1 Gen II? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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What are common issues with the Vortex AMG UH-1 Gen II holographic sight?
Hey there! So you're curious about the Vortex AMG UH-1 Gen II holographic sight and any common issues it might have. Here's what we found: First off, the night vision compatibility on this sight is a nice upgrade, with four night vision settings and 15 daylight illumination levels. This makes it pretty versatile for different lighting situations. According to the manufacturer, it's designed to work well with [night vision devices](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dnight%2Bvision%2Bdevices%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). Still, there have been differences in experiences, likely due to variations between product versions or different vendors. It's probably a good idea to double-check the specs when you're buying one. Now, about the battery life. It uses a single [CR123 battery](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DCR123%2Bbattery%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), which is supposed to last around 1500 hours on medium brightness. This might not be as long as some [red dot sights](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dred%2Bdot%2Bsights%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), but it stacks up well with other holographic sights. A consistent issue that pops up, though, is battery drainage even when the sight is turned off. Some folks have had to reach out to Vortex's customer service for this, suggesting it could be a quality control hiccup. Keeping some extra, charged batteries handy might be a good precaution. When it comes to design and usability, the UH-1 Gen II gets lots of kudos for its robust build and fast target acquisition, thanks to its EBR-CQB reticle. It's made to handle tough conditions with its fog-proof, shock-proof, and waterproof features. Plus, that lifetime warranty Vortex offers is a nice safety net if anything does go wrong. All in all, while there are a couple of things to watch out for, this holographic sight also has some solid strengths. Just make sure to verify the features with your seller and give your unit a thorough once-over when it arrives so you're not caught off guard.
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What is the battery life of the Vortex AMG UH-1 Gen II holographic sight?
The Vortex AMG UH-1 Gen II Holographic Sight has a battery life of about 1,500 hours with a [CR123A battery](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DCR123A%2Bbattery%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), according to the manufacturer. This means you can rely on it for quite a while without having to constantly worry about changing batteries, whether you're using it casually or professionally in fields like hunting or law enforcement. One handy feature is its built-in battery compartment, which makes swapping out batteries pretty straightforward. Plus, there's an automatic shut-off that kicks in after 14 hours of continuous use, helping to save power if you forget to turn it off. Our research shows that many folks appreciate the long battery life as a reliable aspect of the sight. However, if you plan on using it extensively, it might be wise to keep some spare [CR123A batteries](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DCR123A%2Bbattery%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) on hand, just in case. While its battery life is impressive, the sight's advanced options like night vision compatibility do need some juice. The night vision settings have improved over the prior model, giving smoother transitions in different lighting conditions. Just keep an eye on power usage so you can make the most of these features without cutting your time short. So, if long-lasting battery life is a priority for you, the Vortex AMG UH-1 Gen II is definitely up there. It's reliable and offers good endurance before you need to think about battery replacements—a good fit for long days or nighttime outings. Just think about how you'll be using it to ensure it's the right match for your needs.

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Budget Pick: EOTECH 512

EOTECH 512.XBOW Holographic Crossbow Sight - XBOW Reticle w/Rangefinder

For those on a budget, the EOTECH 512 provides high-performance features without breaking the bank. Though it is slightly bulkier than more recent models, this sight does not compromise on crucial aspects such as quick target acquisition and clear reticle. The 512 boasts up to 2500 hours of battery life on lithium batteries, making it a practical choice for beginners and budget-conscious shooters alike. Its robust construction ensures durability, giving you professional-grade functionality at a fraction of the cost.

Available at Amazon
View at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the EOTECH 512.XBOW Crossbow Sight? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How accurate is the EOTECH 512.XBOW Holographic Crossbow Sight?
The EOTECH 512.XBOW Holographic Crossbow Sight is pretty reliable when it comes to accuracy, especially for those into crossbow hunting. The standout feature is its built-in rangefinder, which is a smart addition for estimating distances without scaring away your target. It's designed to help you gauge distances quickly by projecting a scale on the target that lines up with the back to the belly of a mature whitetail deer, about 18 inches. The manufacturer claims that this setup helps you judge range efficiently without making too much movement or noise, which is key when you're out in the field. This design lets you stay focused and ready, which can really make a difference. From what we've found, a lot of folks seem pretty happy with the rangefinder’s accuracy and how it holds its zero even after lots of use. One of the nice things people mention is that it doesn't clutter their field of view, which makes it easier to aim and take shots quickly. According to our research, it's effective for shots up to 60 yards, and many hunters seem to trust it for that. A cool part of this sight is that it integrates the range data and aiming markers into the same view – so you don't have to shift your focus around, which is convenient for getting quick shots off. Just a heads up, the price of this sight can vary quite a bit between retailers, so it's a good idea to shop around and compare prices before buying. If you like hunting and need a sight that's both fast and dependable, the EOTECH 512.XBOW might be worth a look for its innovative and reliable features.

Best for Home Defense: Holosun HS510C

HOLOSUN HE510C-GR / HS510C Multi-Reticle 2 MOA Dot & 65 MOA Circle Open Reflex Sight for Long Guns - Solar FailSafe Shake-Awake Waterproof Sight with 12 Brightness Settings - Red/Green Dot Options Green 2 MOA Dot & 65 MOA Circle (HE510C-GR)

The Holosun HS510C emerges as our top recommendation for home defense. It offers versatile reticle options that enhance precision and facilitate rapid target acquisition during high-stress situations. Its key features include a solar failsafe that keeps the sight operational even if the battery depletes, coupled with a formidable battery life of up to 50,000 hours. Users find it incredibly user-friendly and rugged, with a large viewing window that is advantageous in critical home defense situations. With the HS510C, you get a reliable and efficient holographic sight tailored for protecting your home.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$339.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the "HOLOSUN HE510C-GR Reflex Sight"? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How durable is the Holosun HE510C-GR reflex sight?
The Holosun HE510C-GR Reflex Sight is pretty solid when it comes to durability and reliability. A lot of folks appreciate how it holds settings like zero adjustments, reticle options, and brightness levels even if you take out the battery. Thanks to its internal memory, your preferences stick around when you pop the battery back in, so there's no need to mess with recalibrating or readjusting anything. From what we've found, people are generally happy with how this sight performs in real-life situations. It's reliable, keeping your crucial settings intact, which definitely cuts down on any hassle. Plus, it has cool features like Shake Awake and Solar FailSafe that add to its durability and smooth operation. Shake Awake is a favorite for many since it turns off the sight when not in use, like when you're moving, and instantly reactivates it when motion is detected. It's a nice touch for saving battery and making sure your settings are always ready to go. The Solar FailSafe tech is another neat addition. It uses solar power as a backup if your battery runs low, keeping the sight functional and ensuring your settings are stable. It's especially handy in varying shooting conditions and situations that might be a bit unpredictable. Overall, according to our analysis, the Holosun HE510C-GR is built tough with these smart features that make it a reliable choice. Whether you're shooting in bright daylight or dim settings, you can count on this reflex sight to work consistently.
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What are the reticle options for the Holosun HE510C-GR?
The Holosun HE510C-GR has some cool reticle options. According to the manufacturer's description, it offers a versatile multi-reticle system that includes a 2 MOA dot and a 65 MOA circle. This means you can pick the one that works best for what you're doing, whether it's target practice, hunting, or shooting at different ranges. A neat feature is the Solar Failsafe tech, which kicks in if your battery gets low, using solar power as a backup. There's also a Shake Awake function that turns the sight on when it detects movement, so you don't waste that impressive 50,000-hour battery life. Our research shows most folks find the dot sharp and clear. It's known to hold up well, even when paired with a [12 gauge KSG shotgun](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3D12%2Bgauge%2BKSG%2Bshotgun%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), dealing with various types of ammo. That's a good sign of its durability. But, there are some quality control issues noted—like seeing adhesive on the glass at higher brightness levels, which might mean some inconsistencies in how it's made. A lot of people say it's easy to mount and use, thanks to the quick-detach feature. The wide field of view is a hit too. Many appreciate the brightness adjustments, which change according to your surroundings, thanks to the Shake Awake feature. Be aware, though, if you have astigmatism, you might find the dot a bit tricky to see, but that's common with red dot sights in general, not just this one. In short, the Holosun HE510C-GR is a solid option if you're looking for a reliable sight with multiple reticle options that can handle different weather conditions. Just make sure to buy from a trustworthy seller to avoid any issues with refurbished goods.

Best for Hunting: Vortex Razor AMG UH-1

Vortex Optics AMG UH-1 Gen II Holographic Sights UH-1 Holographic Sight

For hunting enthusiasts, the Vortex Razor AMG UH-1 delivers outstanding performance and reliability in the field. This holographic sight offers superb situational awareness with its clear sight picture and wide field of view. Its rugged construction is designed to endure the tough conditions encountered during hunting trips. Also noteworthy is its impressive battery life, which ensures that the sight remains dependable for extended durations in the wilderness. If you're looking for a holographic sight that excels in dynamic hunting environments, the Vortex Razor AMG UH-1 is a top-tier option.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$544.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Vortex AMG UH-1 Gen II? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

🔍
What are common issues with the Vortex AMG UH-1 Gen II holographic sight?
Hey there! So you're curious about the Vortex AMG UH-1 Gen II holographic sight and any common issues it might have. Here's what we found: First off, the night vision compatibility on this sight is a nice upgrade, with four night vision settings and 15 daylight illumination levels. This makes it pretty versatile for different lighting situations. According to the manufacturer, it's designed to work well with [night vision devices](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dnight%2Bvision%2Bdevices%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). Still, there have been differences in experiences, likely due to variations between product versions or different vendors. It's probably a good idea to double-check the specs when you're buying one. Now, about the battery life. It uses a single [CR123 battery](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DCR123%2Bbattery%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), which is supposed to last around 1500 hours on medium brightness. This might not be as long as some [red dot sights](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dred%2Bdot%2Bsights%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), but it stacks up well with other holographic sights. A consistent issue that pops up, though, is battery drainage even when the sight is turned off. Some folks have had to reach out to Vortex's customer service for this, suggesting it could be a quality control hiccup. Keeping some extra, charged batteries handy might be a good precaution. When it comes to design and usability, the UH-1 Gen II gets lots of kudos for its robust build and fast target acquisition, thanks to its EBR-CQB reticle. It's made to handle tough conditions with its fog-proof, shock-proof, and waterproof features. Plus, that lifetime warranty Vortex offers is a nice safety net if anything does go wrong. All in all, while there are a couple of things to watch out for, this holographic sight also has some solid strengths. Just make sure to verify the features with your seller and give your unit a thorough once-over when it arrives so you're not caught off guard.
🔋
What is the battery life of the Vortex AMG UH-1 Gen II holographic sight?
The Vortex AMG UH-1 Gen II Holographic Sight has a battery life of about 1,500 hours with a [CR123A battery](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DCR123A%2Bbattery%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), according to the manufacturer. This means you can rely on it for quite a while without having to constantly worry about changing batteries, whether you're using it casually or professionally in fields like hunting or law enforcement. One handy feature is its built-in battery compartment, which makes swapping out batteries pretty straightforward. Plus, there's an automatic shut-off that kicks in after 14 hours of continuous use, helping to save power if you forget to turn it off. Our research shows that many folks appreciate the long battery life as a reliable aspect of the sight. However, if you plan on using it extensively, it might be wise to keep some spare [CR123A batteries](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DCR123A%2Bbattery%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) on hand, just in case. While its battery life is impressive, the sight's advanced options like night vision compatibility do need some juice. The night vision settings have improved over the prior model, giving smoother transitions in different lighting conditions. Just keep an eye on power usage so you can make the most of these features without cutting your time short. So, if long-lasting battery life is a priority for you, the Vortex AMG UH-1 Gen II is definitely up there. It's reliable and offers good endurance before you need to think about battery replacements—a good fit for long days or nighttime outings. Just think about how you'll be using it to ensure it's the right match for your needs.
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