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Evelyn: Stephen, when choosing reflex sights, I noticed that some models offer multi reticles. What are the most common types of reflex sight reticles and what shooting scenarios do they fit?

Stephen: Good question! There are many different reticle patterns on the market now, but the most common ones for reflex sights are standard dot, crosshair circle and crosshair circle with a dot.(Picture 1)

Stephen: Before we get started on the 3 patterns of reflex sight reticles, do you know how does a reflex sight work?

Evelyn: Yes, the reflex sight uses a clear lens and a LED reflector to display the red dot.

Stephen: Right. There’s a tiny LED point behind the lens that generates a colored dot of light, the light is then reflected off the back of the lens toward the shooter’s eye. Check out Picture 2 for reference.

Evelyn: I see, now I know how a reflex sight works, let’s get back to the reticles of the reflex sight.

Stephen: Yes, when it comes to reflex sight reticles, we need to first consider the dot size and the dot pattern, choose one that will best fit your uses.

Evelyn: Talking about the dot size, I noticed that the dot reticle is usually measured in MOA right?

Stephen: Yes, the size of the dot is measured in MOAs. 1 MOA spreads about 1’’ at 100 yards, 2’’ at 200 yards and so on. So if the dot size is 3 MOA, that means that the dot covers a 3’’ area on a target 100 yards away. Check out Picture 3 for reference.

Evelyn: I see. What size is good for my dot reticle then?

Stephen: Depends on how far away your target is. If your target is within 100 yards, then the dot size should be between 3 and 5 MOA. So that you can see your target easily and acquire your target fast without getting the dot blocking your line of sight.

Evelyn: Got you! What about the dot pattern? You mentioned the 3 most common dot patterns, what shooting scenarios do they fit for?

Stephen: Yes, let’s first talk about the dot reticle. The dot reticle is the simplest and most common type of reticle used in reflex sights. It consists of a single dot in the center of the sight window, which acts as the aiming point. The size of the dot can vary depending on the sight, but typically ranges from 1 to 5 MOA. A smaller dot size provides greater precision, enabling the shooter to make accurate shots at longer distances. The dot reticle is ideal for shooting at small targets or hunting small game, where precision is key.

Evelyn: Understood, so the dot reticle provides a clear and precise aiming point and does not obstruct your target, fit shooting at small targets or hunting small game, right? (Picture 4)

Stephen: Yep, now let’s talk about crosshair circle reticle. Crosshair circle reticle is a popular choice due to its versatility and ease of use.

Evelyn: Why is it versatile and easy to use?

Stephen: Compare to the dot reticle, the crosshair circle reticle provides a larger aiming point for quick target acquisition, but it may obstruct the view of the target, especially when shooting at long distances. The diameter of the crosshair reticle usually ranges from 30 to 50 MOA. The crosshair circle allows for easier tracking of moving targets and is ideal for close-quarters shooting scenarios.

Evelyn: I see. So the crosshair circle reticle provides quick target acquisition due to its circular design and is more suitable for close-quarters shooting scenarios. (Picture 5)

Stephen: Yes, now let’s move on to the crosshair circle with a dot reticle. This type of reticle consists of a circular outer ring with a small dot in the center, it combines the advantages of both dot reticle and crosshair circle reticle. The large circle makes it easy to track moving targets, while the dot provides precise aiming. This reticle is suitable for close-range engagements and medium-range shooting.

Evelyn: Can this type of reticle be used for long-range shooting?

Stephen: This reticle is not suitable for long-range shooting as the circle may cover too much of the target at longer distances.

Evelyn: I see. So this type of reticle is good for moving targets acquisition and speed and precise aiming at close to medium range right? (Picture 6)

Stephen: Yes. To sum up, if you focus on precision, then choose the dot reticle; if you want to acquire moving targets in close-quarters shooting scenarios, then choose the crosshair circle reticle; If you want to track moving targets as well as precise aiming, then choose the crosshair reticle with a dot. Choose wisely based on your shooting needs.

Evelyn: Got it. I have learned a lot today! Thank you, Stephen!

Stephen: You are welcome!