Choosing the Best Red Dot for 45-70 is an important decision for shooters who rely on this powerful cartridge for hunting, brush gun work, or close-to-medium range shooting. The .45-70 Government round is known for its heavy recoil and stopping power, which means any optic mounted on the rifle must be durable, reliable, and fast to acquire a target. A quality red dot sight enhances accuracy while allowing quick follow-up shots in demanding field conditions.
When selecting the Best Red Dot for 45-70, recoil resistance should be a top priority. Not all red dots are built to withstand the shock produced by large-bore rifles. A rugged housing, strong mounting system, and proven recoil rating ensure the optic maintains zero even after repeated shots. Additionally, a clear dot and wide field of view help hunters track moving game in thick cover.
Another key factor in finding the Best Red Dot for 45-70 is visibility in varying light conditions. Adjustable brightness settings allow the dot to remain visible in bright daylight while avoiding glare during low-light hunts. Waterproof and fog-proof construction also adds confidence when hunting in unpredictable weather.
Ultimately, investing in the Best Red Dot for 45-70 improves speed, accuracy, and shooting comfort. With the right optic, shooters can fully unlock the potential of their rifle and enjoy consistent performance in the field, making the Best Red Dot for 45-70 a valuable upgrade for serious enthusiasts.
6 Best Red Dot for 45-70.
1.Primary Arms SLX 1X MicroPrism – Multiple Illuminated ACSS Reticles.
The Primary Arms SLX 1X MicroPrism is a compact, feature-rich prism sight engineered for shooters who demand fast target acquisition and rock-solid reliability on the range or in the field. Designed around Primary Arms’ proven ACSS Cyclops Gen II reticle, this micro prism offers intuitive aiming and rapid engagement at close to mid-range distances.
One of the key advantages of the MicroPrism is its etched reticle, which remains visible even without illumination — a valuable trait when battery power runs low or lighting conditions change unexpectedly. At roughly half the size and more than 20 % lighter than Primary Arms’ standard Compact 1× Prism, this optic delivers serious performance in a minimal footprint, making it ideal for lightweight builds, hunting rifles, or tactical platforms where minimizing bulk is critical.
The SLX MicroPrism also boasts 13 illumination settings, including a true daylight bright option that ensures the reticle can be clearly seen in bright sunshine as well as low-light situations. Powered by a single CR2032 battery, it provides outstanding runtime — up to approximately 29,000 hours at a medium setting.
Added features like the AutoLive motion-sensing on/off system enhance battery efficiency by shutting off illumination when the sight is idle and instantly reactivating when movement is detected. Built from durable aluminum with a Picatinny mount, the Primary Arms SLX 1X MicroPrism excels as a versatile and dependable choice for anyone seeking an advanced yet lightweight optic solution.
Product Features
- ACSS Cyclops Gen II etched reticle for clear aiming even without illumination
- Works without illumination for reticle visibility in all conditions
- Diopter adjustment enhances reticle clarity
- About half the size and over 20 % lighter than the Compact 1× Prism
- 13 illumination settings including true daylight bright
- AutoLive motion-sensing on/off for battery saving
- Long battery life (approx. 29,000 hours on medium)
- Uses one CR2032 battery (included)
Specifications
- Brand: Primary Arms
- Compatible Devices: Rifle
- Reticle Style: Red – Cyclops ACSS Gen II
- Magnification: 1× (fixed)
- Material: Aluminum
- Color: Black
- Mounting Type: Picatinny Mount
- Item Weight: 7.6 Ounces
- Battery: 1 × CR2032 (Included)
- Illumination Settings: 13
Pros
- Lightweight and compact design is easy to mount on most rifles
- Etched ACSS Cyclops Gen II reticle works even without illumination
- Excellent battery life with efficient AutoLive motion-sensing technology
- Adjustable illumination with daylight bright setting for varied environments
- Diopter adjustment improves reticle clarity
Con
- Fixed 1× magnification may limit usefulness at longer ranges
2.HOLOSUN HE407C-GR X2 / HS407C X2 2 MOA Dot Open Reflex Sight.
The HOLOSUN HE407C-GR X2 / HS407C X2 is a proven open reflex sight built for full-sized handguns, offering reliability, efficiency, and fast target acquisition in a compact form. Designed with both professional and recreational shooters in mind, this optic delivers a crisp 2 MOA dot that supports precision shooting while remaining quick to pick up during dynamic use. Its wide window provides an excellent field of view, helping shooters stay target-focused and accurate during rapid engagements.
One of the standout strengths of this Holosun pistol sight is its intelligent power management system. Featuring Shake Awake technology, the optic conserves battery life by shutting off when idle and instantly reactivating with the slightest movement. Combined with Solar Failsafe, the sight remains operational even if the battery fails, automatically adjusting reticle brightness based on ambient light conditions. This dual-power system ensures dependable performance in both bright daylight and low-light environments.
The HS407C X2 also includes a convenient Lock Mode, which prevents accidental button presses and unwanted setting changes during carry or use. Built with a durable aluminum housing and an industry-standard footprint, it mounts easily on compatible handguns. With long battery life, parallax-free performance, and unlimited eye relief, the HOLOSUN HE407C-GR X2 / HS407C X2 stands out as a reliable, user-friendly reflex sight for serious handgun shooters.
Product Features
- Open reflex sight designed for full-sized handguns
- Precision 2 MOA dot for fast and accurate aiming
- Shake Awake technology extends battery life
- Solar Failsafe provides backup power and auto brightness control
- Lock Mode prevents accidental button adjustments
- Side-mounted battery tray for easy replacement
- Parallax-free design with unlimited eye relief
- Wide viewing window for rapid target acquisition
Specifications
- Brand: HOLOSUN
- Model: HS407C X2 / HE407C-GR X2
- Color: Red 2 MOA Dot (HS407C X2)
- Magnification: 1×
- Objective Lens Diameter: 23 mm
- Material: 7075-T6 Aluminum
- Item Weight: 1.44 oz
- Compatible Devices: Handgun
- Power Source: Solar & CR1632 Battery
- Battery Life: Up to 50,000 hours
- Brightness Settings: 10 Daylight & 2 Night Vision
- Adjustment Per Click: 1 MOA
- Windage & Elevation Range: ±50 MOA
Pros
- Excellent battery life with Shake Awake and Solar Failsafe
- Crisp 2 MOA dot ideal for precision handgun shooting
- Durable aluminum housing with industry-standard footprint
- Lock Mode prevents accidental setting changes
- Easy battery replacement with side-mounted tray
Con
- Open reflex design offers less environmental protection than enclosed pistol optics
3.Bushnell Optics, 3X Magnifier, Matte Black.
The Bushnell AR Optics Transition 3X Magnifier is designed for shooters who want the speed of a red dot sight with the added flexibility of magnification when needed. Red dot optics are excellent for rapid target acquisition at close range, but they can fall short when targets move farther out.
Bushnell addresses this gap with the Transition 3X Magnifier, offering a simple and effective way to extend your shooting capability without replacing your existing optic. Mounted directly behind a red dot sight, this magnifier instantly provides 3x magnification, allowing for clearer target identification and improved accuracy at medium distances.
One of the strongest advantages of this magnifier is its ambidextrous flip-to-side mount, which lets shooters quickly engage magnification or flip it out of the way when speed is more important. This transition is smooth and intuitive, making it ideal for dynamic shooting situations. While it is perfectly matched with the Bushnell TRS-25, it also works reliably with most red dot sights on the market.
Built with Bushnell’s reputation for durability, the Transition 3X Magnifier features fully multi-coated optics for optimal light transmission. It is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, ensuring dependable performance in harsh environments. For shooters seeking versatility without complexity, this magnifier is a practical and reliable upgrade.
Product Features
- 3x magnification for extended effective range
- Ambidextrous flip-to-side mount for quick transitions
- Compatible with most red dot sights
- Fully multi-coated optics for improved brightness and clarity
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction
- Fast-focus eyepiece for quick adjustments
- Designed to pair perfectly with Bushnell TRS-25
Specifications
- Brand: Bushnell Optics
- Model: AR Optics Transition 3X Magnifier
- Color: Matte Black
- Magnification: 3x
- Length: 4.6 inches
- Weight: 13.2 ounces
- Mount Type: Flip-to-side (ambidextrous)
- Optical Coating: Fully multi-coated
Pros
- Easy flip-to-side design allows instant use or disengagement
- Works with a wide range of red dot sights
- Durable, weather-resistant construction
- Clear optics with good light transmission
- Simple setup with included mount
Con
- Heavier than some compact magnifiers, adding noticeable weight to the rifle setup
4.RM06-C-700800 Trijicon RMR Type 2 Green Dot Sight Adjustable LED 3.25 MOA Green Dot.
The Trijicon RMR Type 2 Green Dot Sight (RM06-C-700800) is widely regarded as one of the toughest and most reliable reflex sights available today. Designed for use on handguns, rifles, and shotguns, this optic is built to perform in the harshest environments while delivering consistent accuracy. Featuring a crisp 3.25 MOA adjustable green dot, the RMR Type 2 strikes an ideal balance between fast target acquisition and precise shot placement, making it suitable for hunting, duty use, and defensive applications.
What truly sets this optic apart is Trijicon’s focus on durability and electronic reliability. The patented forged aluminum housing is engineered to redirect impact forces away from the lens, significantly increasing survivability under recoil, drops, and rough handling. Internally, ruggedized battery contacts and reinforced electronics ensure stable performance even on high-recoil platforms.
The adjustable LED system offers both automatic and manual brightness control, with eight brightness settings including night vision compatibility and a super-bright mode for intense daylight. Battery efficiency is another strong point, with smart power management that adapts to ambient lighting and delivers up to two years of continuous use under normal conditions. Compact, lightweight, and extremely tough, the Trijicon RMR Type 2 remains a benchmark optic trusted by military, law enforcement, and serious civilian shooters.
Product Features
- 3.25 MOA adjustable green LED dot for speed and precision
- Automatic and manual brightness modes with push-button controls
- Eight brightness settings including 2 night vision and 1 super bright
- Patented forged aluminum housing diverts impact away from the lens
- Ruggedized electronics and battery contacts for harsh environments
- Battery conservation mode adapts dot brightness to ambient light
- Button lockout prevents accidental setting changes
- Night vision compatible for tactical and low-light use
Specifications
- Brand: Trijicon
- Model Name: RMR Adjustable LED Green Dot
- Model Number: RM06-C-700800
- Style: Reflex
- Color: Black
- Reticle: 3.25 MOA Green Dot
- Compatible Devices: Handgun, Rifle, Shotgun
- Material: Military-grade Aluminum
- Item Weight: 1.2 oz
- Dimensions: 1.8″ L × 1.1″ W × 1″ H
- Night Vision: Yes
- Battery Life: Up to 2 years (setting 4 of 8 at 70°F)
Pros
- Exceptional durability with patented impact-deflecting housing
- Clear and precise 3.25 MOA green dot
- Reliable electronics designed for duty and combat use
- Night vision compatibility with multiple brightness settings
- Lightweight and compact for versatile mounting options
Con
- Premium price compared to many competing reflex sights
5.Sightmark Ultra Shot R-Spec Reflex Sight.
The Sightmark Ultra Shot R-Spec Reflex Sight is a versatile optic designed for rifles and shotguns, combining rugged durability with precision aiming features. Built for shooters who demand speed and accuracy, this reflex sight is ideal for tactical, hunting, or recreational airsoft applications. Its 1× magnification ensures rapid target acquisition, while the parallax-free design keeps the reticle aligned even with slight head or eye movement, giving shooters confidence in every shot.
Durability is a standout feature of the R-Spec. Constructed from 6061-T6 aluminum alloy with a protective shield, the sight withstands harsh environments, impacts, and rough handling. Its water-resistant design further enhances reliability, keeping the optic functional even in damp or rainy conditions. The advanced anti-reflective coating reduces glare, providing a clear and bright sight picture in varied lighting conditions.
For adaptability, the Ultra Shot R-Spec offers 4 red/green reticle styles and 10 brightness levels, ensuring precision in any scenario. Additional features, such as low battery indication, digital switch controls, a 25-yard parallax setting, and the Interlok internal locking system, allow for fine adjustments and long-term consistency. Combining rugged construction, clear optics, and versatile aiming options, the Sightmark Ultra Shot R-Spec Reflex Sight is an excellent choice for shooters seeking performance and reliability in a compact package.
Product Features
- 6061-T6 aluminum body with protective shield for durability
- Anti-reflective lens coating reduces glare
- Parallax-free system ensures accurate aiming at all angles
- 4 red/green reticle styles and 10 brightness levels
- Water-resistant construction for wet or damp conditions
- Low battery indicator and digital switch controls
- 1× magnification with 25-yard parallax setting
- Interlok internal locking adjustment system for precision
Specifications
- Brand: Sightmark
- Style: R-Spec
- Compatible Devices: Rifle, Shotgun
- Color: Dark Earth
- Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum
- Magnification: 1×
- Dimensions: 4.5″ L × 2.5″ W × 3″ H
- Item Weight: 10.7 oz
Pros
- Durable construction with protective shield and aluminum body
- Parallax-free reticle and anti-reflective coating for clear, accurate sighting
- Multiple reticle options and brightness levels for adaptable aiming
- Water-resistant for reliable performance in wet conditions
- Interlok locking system ensures long-term precision
Con
- Relatively heavy at 10.7 ounces compared to other compact reflex sights
6.HOLOSUN HS407K X2 Red 6 MOA Dot Open Reflex Optical Sight for Subcompact Pistols.
The HOLOSUN HS407K X2 Red 6 MOA Dot Open Reflex Sight is purpose-built for subcompact pistols, offering fast target acquisition, durability, and long-term reliability in a lightweight design. Designed specifically for concealed carry and everyday handgun use, this optic is an excellent match for pistols like the SIG P365X/XL, where compact size and dependable performance are critical. The crisp 6 MOA red dot is easy to pick up under stress, making it ideal for close-range defensive shooting and rapid engagements.
Holosun equips the HS407K X2 with its proven Red Super LED, delivering up to 50,000 hours of battery life. Combined with 12 brightness settings, including night vision compatibility, the optic adapts well to a wide range of lighting conditions. The parallax-free design and unlimited eye relief allow shooters to maintain accuracy even with imperfect head positioning, a key advantage on small-frame handguns.
Durability is another strong point. The optic features a rugged 7075-T6 aluminum housing with an anodized finish, ensuring resistance to recoil and daily carry wear. Shake Awake technology further enhances efficiency by automatically powering down the LED when idle and instantly reactivating with movement. With multilayer reflective glass for improved clarity and reduced glare, the HOLOSUN HS407K X2 delivers reliable performance in a compact, carry-friendly package.
Product Features
- Open reflex sight optimized for subcompact pistols
- Crisp 6 MOA red dot for fast target acquisition
- Shake Awake technology for extended battery life
- Lock Mode prevents accidental brightness changes
- Side-mounted battery tray for easy replacement
- Multilayer reflective glass for clarity and reduced glare
- Parallax-free design with unlimited eye relief
- Direct mount for P365X/XL (adapter required for four-boss slides)
Specifications
- Brand: HOLOSUN
- Style: Reflex
- Color: Black
- Compatible Devices: Handgun
- Mounting Type: P365X/XL Specific Mount
- Material: 7075-T6 Aluminum
- Weight: 27.22 g
- Magnification: 1×
- Reticle: 6 MOA Dot
- Light Wavelength: 650 nm
- Battery Type: CR1620
- Battery Life: Up to 50,000 hours
- Brightness Settings: 10 Daylight & 2 Night Vision
- Window Size: 0.58″ × 0.77″
- Adjustment Per Click: 1.5 MOA
- Windage & Elevation Range: ±30 MOA
Pros
- Lightweight and compact for concealed carry pistols
- Large 6 MOA dot enables rapid sight acquisition
- Excellent battery life with Shake Awake technology
- Durable aluminum housing resists recoil and daily wear
- Clear optics with reduced glare and strong reticle brightness
Con
- Requires an adapter plate for slides with a four-boss interface
7.SIG SAUER ROMEO5 Gen II 1x20mm 2 MOA Red Dot Sight & 3x22mm JULIET3.
The SIG SAUER ROMEO5 Gen II 1x20mm Red Dot & JULIET3-Micro 3x Magnifier Combo Kit delivers a versatile and reliable aiming solution for shooters seeking precision and adaptability in one streamlined package. This combo pairs the compact ROMEO5 Gen II red dot with the ultra-compact JULIET3-Micro 3x magnifier, allowing shooters to transition seamlessly between close- and mid-range targets without changing optics. The 2 MOA red dot provides rapid target acquisition while maintaining a crisp, clear aiming point, perfect for tactical, hunting, or recreational use.
Durability and performance are at the forefront of this package. Both optics are housed in rugged aluminum and rated IPX-7 waterproof and fog-proof, making them capable of handling demanding environments. The ROMEO5 Gen II features parallax-free optics with fully multi-coated lenses for excellent light transmission, while the JULIET3-Micro magnifier includes a dielectric-coated prism for superior clarity and contrast.
This combo also excels in adaptability. The ROMEO5 Gen II offers 12 brightness settings (10 daylight, 2 NV) with ambidextrous top-mount controls, while the JULIET3-Micro features a 90-degree push-button flip-to-side mount for quick engagement. Motion-activated MOTAC technology extends battery life up to 40,000 hours, ensuring reliable operation for extended periods. Together, these optics provide a high-performance, durable, and flexible aiming solution for modern shooters.
Product Features
- ROMEO5 Gen II 1x20mm 2 MOA red dot with parallax-free optics
- JULIET3-Micro 3x22mm magnifier for mid-range target engagement
- Fully multi-coated lenses and dielectric prism for optimal light transmission
- Ambidextrous illumination controls with 12 brightness settings
- Push-button flip-to-side magnifier mount for quick transitions
- Rugged IPX-7 waterproof and fog-proof construction
- Motion-activated MOTAC technology for extended battery life
- Durable aluminum housing for both red dot and magnifier
Specifications
- Brand: SIG SAUER
- Reticle Type: 2 MOA Red Dot
- Magnification: 1x (Red Dot) / 3x (Magnifier)
- Objective Lens Diameter: 20 mm (Red Dot) / 22 mm (Magnifier)
- Material: Aluminum
- Color: Black
- Compatible Devices: Firearm, Airsoft Gun
- Mounting Type: Top Mount (Red Dot), 90° Flip-to-Side (Magnifier)
- Night Vision: No
- Item Weight: Lightweight, compact design
- Battery Life: Up to 40,000 hours (ROMEO5 Gen II)
Pros
- Seamless transition between close- and mid-range targets
- Crisp 2 MOA dot with parallax-free optics
- Motion-activated MOTAC technology extends battery life
- Durable aluminum construction and IPX-7 waterproof/fog-proof rating
- Quick flip-to-side magnifier mount for flexible engagement
Con
- Magnifier adds extra length and weight to the rifle setup, which may affect balance for some users
8.Aimpoint CompM5s Red Dot Reflex Sight with Mount and Spacer – 2 MOA – 200500.
The Aimpoint CompM5s Red Dot Reflex Sight is a versatile, high-performance optic designed for rifles and shotguns, offering quick target acquisition and reliable accuracy in a lightweight package. With a crisp 2 MOA red dot, this sight provides precise aiming at close to mid-range distances, making it an excellent choice for hunting, tactical shooting, or competitive sports. Its compact design and Picatinny mount compatibility allow easy installation on a wide range of firearms, while included spacers ensure proper height alignment for optimal eye relief and shooting comfort.
Durability and longevity are hallmarks of Aimpoint optics, and the CompM5s is no exception. Powered by a single AAA battery, the sight can operate continuously for up to 50,000 hours (over five years), reducing the need for frequent battery changes. The 10 brightness settings, including one extra-bright mode, allow users to maintain reticle visibility in all lighting conditions, from dawn hunting trips to bright midday engagements. Included front and rear flip-cap lens covers protect the optics from dust, scratches, and debris, ensuring consistent performance in the field.
Additionally, the CompM5s pairs perfectly with Aimpoint’s 3xMag-1 or 6xMag-1 magnifiers, providing flexibility for shooters who need extended range capability. Compact, durable, and easy to use, this red dot sight delivers unmatched reliability for serious shooters.
Product Features
- 2 MOA red dot for precise target acquisition
- Picatinny mount with included spacer for proper alignment
- 10 brightness settings including extra-bright mode for daylight
- Compatible with Aimpoint 3xMag-1 and 6xMag-1 magnifiers
- Front and rear flip-cap lens covers for protection
- Long battery life: up to 50,000 hours of continuous use from 1 AAA battery
- Lightweight and compact design suitable for rifles and shotguns
Specifications
- Brand: Aimpoint
- Style: Red Dot Sight
- Compatible Devices: Rifles, Shotguns
- Color: Black
- Magnification: 1×
- Mounting Type: Picatinny Mount
- Night Vision: No
- Item Weight: 0.25 oz
- Battery: 1 × AAA, up to 50,000 hours
Pros
- Extremely long battery life for years of continuous use
- Crisp 2 MOA red dot ideal for fast and accurate target engagement
- Lightweight and compact, easy to mount on most rifles or shotguns
- 10 brightness settings ensure visibility in all lighting conditions
- Front and rear lens covers protect optics from dust and damage
Con
- No built-in night vision capability for low-light tactical applications
Factors to consider when choosing the Best Red Dot for 45-70.
- Recoil Durability
The .45-70 cartridge produces significant recoil, so choose a red dot rated for heavy-recoil firearms. Robust internal components and a strong mount help maintain zero over many shots. - Dot Size & Reticle Clarity
A crisp, easily visible dot (commonly 3 MOA–6 MOA) allows fast target acquisition without obscuring the target. Clear optics reduce eye strain and improve accuracy in dynamic shooting scenarios. - Brightness & Visibility
Adjustable brightness settings are essential to see the reticle in bright sunlight and low light. Multiple intensity levels ensure the dot stays visible without washout in different lighting conditions. - Mounting Compatibility
Ensure the red dot mounts securely on your 45-70 rifle platform. A quality mount or integrated footprint minimizes movement under recoil. Quick-detach options add flexibility if you want to swap optics. - Weather Resistance
Waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof construction help the red dot withstand rain, humidity, and temperature swings. Durable sealing and quality materials extend longevity and reliable field performance.
Best Red Dot for 45-70:FAQS
- Can a red dot handle the recoil of a 45-70 rifle?
Yes, but only red dots designed for heavy recoil. The Best Red Dot for 45-70 should have reinforced internals and a solid mounting system to maintain zero after repeated shots. - What dot size is best for a 45-70 rifle?
A dot size between 3 MOA and 6 MOA is ideal. It allows fast target acquisition while remaining accurate at typical 45-70 shooting distances. - Is a red dot better than a scope for 45-70 hunting?
For close to medium ranges, a red dot is often better. The Best Red Dot for 45-70 offers faster target acquisition and a wider field of view than traditional scopes. - Are red dots suitable for low-light hunting with a 45-70?
Yes, if the optic has adjustable brightness settings. Quality red dots allow the dot to remain visible in low light without flaring or overpowering the target. - Should I choose an open or enclosed red dot for a 45-70?
Enclosed red dots are generally preferred. They provide better protection against dust, rain, and debris, making them more reliable for hard-hitting 45-70 rifles used outdoors.
Conclusion
Selecting the Best Red Dot for 45-70 is essential for shooters who want speed, reliability, and confidence when handling this powerful cartridge. The .45-70 Government round is widely respected for its stopping power, making it a popular choice for hunting large game and brush shooting. Because of its strong recoil, the optic you choose must be built to handle punishment while still delivering fast target acquisition.
When evaluating the Best Red Dot for 45-70, durability should be the first consideration. Heavy recoil can quickly expose weak mounts or poor internal construction, so a rugged design is critical. A well-built red dot allows shooters to stay on target and maintain zero even after repeated shots in demanding conditions.
Another reason the Best Red Dot for 45-70 stands out is its ability to improve shooting speed. Red dots allow both-eyes-open shooting, which is ideal for tracking moving game in thick cover. This advantage makes them especially effective at the typical short to medium ranges where the 45-70 excels.
Visibility also matters when choosing the Best Red Dot for 45-70. Adjustable brightness settings help maintain a clear aiming point in bright daylight or low-light situations. Weather resistance further ensures dependable performance in rain, dust, or humidity.
Ultimately, investing in the Best Red Dot for 45-70 enhances accuracy, handling, and overall shooting enjoyment, allowing shooters to fully capitalize on the strength and versatility of this classic cartridge.
Next Read: 7 Best Budget Red Dot for Rifle