January 2025

What kind of optic do I need?

Ok, so you just picked up your new toy, should I mount an optic and if so what kind?

There are tons of different options for shooters regarding types of optics. From short range holographic / prism sites and red dots, to longer range variable zoom scopes, there's something for every situation.

Here is a breakdown of the best sights you will find on Rocky Mountain Optics:

Red / Green dot sights

Red / Green dot sights are best used for close range up to 100y for most effective use. Our models feature up to 8 brightness levels and red or green dot option.

Generally green sites are easier to see during daylight while red is more effective at night.

OSP Red / Green Dot With Green Laser

OSP Red / Green Dot With Flash Guard

Some models come with additional accessories like backup iron sights and a fiberoptic mesh for reducing glare (above) or even a green laser for close quarters.

LPVOs (Low Power Variable Optics)

1-4 and 1-6 are great magnification ranges for low distance shoooters looking for some variability and an ability to drop into 1 power but also get out to 150-200yds.

1-6 LPVO with Illuminated Rangefinder Reticle in 3 colors

LPVO Tactical 1-4 scope (comes with ringmounts and covers)

Scopes with mil dot reticles allow the user to use the mil dot lines or the targeting brackets in the illuminated range finder reticle to gauge distances and allow for drop as distance increases and to adjust for wind.

These scopes allow for limited range while still allowing fantastic eye relief and light capturing for a crystal clear image in any lighting situation.

Compact tactical scopes

Our number one scope, the best bang for the buck with any AR platform and a need for multiple ranges as well as excellent eye relief for rapid target acquisition is our Compact 3-9x42 MDG / IRF scope

This 3-9 gives the user accuracy up to 250-300y and a wide range of yardages below that.

With any sort of compact scope the eye relief is the one of the most important aspects as longer eye reliefs allow for quicker target acquisition and aiming and less eye fatigue.

Compact 3-9x42 MDG / Illuminated Range Finder Reticle

Reflex sights

Reflex sights are useful for short range and allow for a variety of different crosshairs ranging from standard red / green dot to crosshair and crosshair with circle.

These sights have a very small footprint and add next to nothing in weight and are available in 3-8 different brightness levels with multiple color settings including blue which many colorblind people prefer.