Choosing the 6 Best Holographic Sights For Shotguns requires a slightly different approach than choosing one for a rifle. Shotguns are commonly used at relatively short distances, where a wide field of view, rapid sight acquisition, and a forgiving sight picture can be particularly useful. A 1x holographic sight can provide those characteristics while allowing the shooter to keep both eyes open.
The 6 Best Holographic Sights For Shotguns are also different from conventional LED reflex sights. EOTech and Vortex are among the manufacturers associated with true holographic weapon sights, while products such as the Holosun HS510C use LED reflex technology despite offering a similar large-window, circle-dot appearance.
For shotgun applications, durability, mounting compatibility, battery management, reticle visibility, and window size are important considerations. The 6 Best Holographic Sights For Shotguns below include true holographic sights as well as one clearly identified reflex alternative that can appeal to users looking for a similar sight picture at a lower weight.
6 Best Holographic Sights For Shotguns
1. EOTECH EXPS3 Holographic Weapon Sight
The EOTECH EXPS3 Holographic Weapon Sight is a compact 1x holographic optic designed around a large viewing window and a fast, both-eyes-open sight picture. It is particularly notable for its compact form factor compared with the longer EOTech 512-style housing.
The EXPS3 uses EOTech’s familiar ring-and-dot reticle system. The holographic reticle is designed to remain visible across different lighting conditions, while the sight’s large viewing area helps maintain awareness around the aiming point. Its 1x magnification makes it suitable for close-range applications where magnification is unnecessary.
One of the major attractions of the EXPS3 is its night-vision capability. While that feature may not be necessary for every shotgun user, it gives the optic additional versatility. Outdoor Life also identifies the EXPS3 among its leading holographic sight options, particularly emphasizing durability, reticle design, and night-vision functionality.
The compact design can also be advantageous on a shotgun because it leaves less optic extending over the receiver. Its relatively high position can provide a practical sighting setup when paired with a compatible rail and mount.
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Features
- 1x magnification
- Holographic ring-and-dot reticle
- Night-vision compatible
- Compact housing
- Large viewing window
- Unlimited eye relief
Pros
- Excellent reticle visibility
- Compact design
- Night-vision capability
- Designed for rugged use
- Fast sight picture
Cons
- Expensive
2. Vortex AMG UH-1 Gen II Holographic Sight
The Vortex AMG UH-1 Gen II Holographic Sight is another true holographic sight that provides a large viewing window and 1x magnification. Its distinctive housing gives it a different appearance from the EOTech family while maintaining the characteristics expected from a holographic optic.
The UH-1 Gen II uses Vortex’s EBR-CQB reticle. Compared with a simple dot, the reticle provides additional aiming references that can be useful when shooting at different distances. The optic also supports night-vision use and has a rugged enclosed design.
Its relatively compact dimensions make it practical for platforms where space is limited. On a shotgun, the large window can help the shooter locate the reticle quickly without having to achieve a highly precise head position.
The UH-1 Gen II also has an IPX8 waterproof rating, according to comparison data, making environmental resistance one of its notable characteristics. This can be useful for outdoor users who may encounter rain, moisture, or dusty conditions.
Another attraction is its positioning below some premium holographic sights in price. It still represents a significant investment, but it provides a combination of reticle functionality, durability, and night-vision compatibility that makes it a versatile option.
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Features
- 1x magnification
- EBR-CQB reticle
- Night-vision compatible
- IPX8 waterproof construction
- Large viewing window
- CR123 battery
Pros
- Feature-rich reticle
- Rugged construction
- Night-vision compatible
- Wide sight picture
- Good alternative to EOTech
Cons
- Larger housing than some compact red dots
3. EOTECH XPS3 Holographic Weapon Sight
The EOTECH XPS3 Holographic Weapon Sight provides many of the characteristics associated with EOTech holographic optics while using a compact design. Its shorter housing can be useful when minimizing the amount of equipment occupying the top of a shotgun.
The sight uses a holographic ring-and-dot reticle and provides a 1x sight picture. The large window allows the shooter to maintain a broad view while presenting the reticle against the target.
The XPS3 is also designed with night-vision compatibility. This makes it considerably more versatile than a basic daylight-only optic, although users should select equipment based on their actual application rather than paying for features they will not use.
Its compact footprint is one of its biggest advantages. A shotgun can already have limited usable space around the receiver, and a shorter optic can help preserve room for other equipment.
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Features
- 1x magnification
- Holographic ring-and-dot reticle
- Compact housing
- Night-vision compatible
- Large viewing window
- Unlimited eye relief
Pros
- Compact EOTech design
- Clear holographic reticle
- Night-vision capability
- Good field of view
- Suitable for rapid sight acquisition
Cons
- Requires compatible mounting hardware
4. EOTECH Model 512 Holographic Weapon Sight
The EOTECH Model 512 Holographic Weapon Sight is one of the more recognizable full-size EOTech configurations. Unlike the compact XPS series, the 512 uses AA batteries, making it particularly interesting for users who prefer a common battery format.
The 512 uses EOTech’s traditional ring-and-center-dot holographic reticle. The design gives the shooter a large reference around the center aiming point, which can be useful when acquiring targets quickly.
Battery availability is one of its practical advantages. AA batteries are widely available and easy to replace, although the optic’s larger battery compartment contributes to its longer overall housing.
Published comparison data lists the Model 512 at approximately 12 ounces and reports battery runtimes of roughly 2,500 hours with lithium batteries and 2,200 hours with alkaline batteries under the cited test conditions.
The primary compromise is size. Compared with compact holographic sights, the 512 occupies more space. For a shotgun where the additional length is not problematic, however, its familiar controls, AA battery format, and proven holographic design make it an option worth considering.
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Features
- 1x magnification
- AA battery powered
- Holographic ring-and-dot reticle
- Large viewing window
- Unlimited eye relief
- Rugged housing
Pros
- Uses widely available AA batteries
- Good battery runtime
- Familiar EOTech reticle
- Large sight picture
- Durable design
Cons
- No night-vision capability
5. EOTECH EXPS2 Holographic Weapon Sight
The EOTECH EXPS2 Holographic Weapon Sight is another compact EOTech option that emphasizes a fast and uncluttered sight picture. It provides the familiar EOTech holographic experience in a compact housing.
The sight’s 1x magnification and large window make it appropriate for applications where the shooter wants to maintain a broad view rather than use magnification. This can be particularly relevant to shotgun setups intended for close-range shooting.
The EXPS2 uses a ring-and-dot holographic reticle and provides multiple brightness settings. Its controls are positioned on the side of the optic, helping keep the top of the sight relatively clear.
Unlike the EXPS3, the EXPS2 is not designed with night-vision settings. This makes it more straightforward for users who primarily need a daylight optic and do not require night-vision compatibility.
Testing summarized by Pew Pew Tactical lists the EXPS2 at approximately 11 ounces, with around 1,000 hours of battery runtime depending on operating conditions. For users who want a compact true holographic sight without paying specifically for night-vision functionality, it can be a practical choice.
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Features
- 1x magnification
- Holographic ring-and-dot reticle
- Compact design
- Side-mounted controls
- Large viewing window
- Unlimited eye relief
Pros
- Compact size
- Fast sight picture
- Good reticle visibility
- Side-mounted controls
- Proven holographic design
Cons
- Relatively expensive
6. Holosun HS510C Open Reflex Optical Sight
The Holosun HS510C Open Reflex Optical Sight deserves a place on this list as an alternative, but it is important to make the distinction clear: the HS510C is a reflex sight, not a true holographic sight. Holosun itself describes it as an open reflex optic designed for carbines, PCCs, and shotguns.
Its large open window and circle-dot reticle give it a sight picture that many shooters associate with holographic optics. The Multi-Reticle System allows the user to select a 2 MOA dot, 65 MOA circle, or combined circle-and-dot configuration.
The HS510C is particularly attractive because of its low weight. Holosun lists the optic at approximately 4.94 ounces, substantially lighter than many true holographic sights. It also has a 0.91 × 1.26-inch viewing window.
Power management is another major advantage. The HS510C uses a CR2032 battery and incorporates Solar Failsafe and Shake Awake technology. Holosun specifies up to 50,000 hours of battery life under its stated conditions.
The optic also has an aluminum housing with a titanium protective hood and an IP67 waterproof rating. For someone who wants a lightweight, large-window optic for a shotgun and does not specifically require holographic technology, the HS510C is an interesting alternative.
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Features
- 1x magnification
- 2 MOA dot and 65 MOA circle
- Solar Failsafe
- Shake Awake
- 50,000-hour stated battery life
- IP67 waterproof rating
Pros
- Very lightweight
- Large viewing window
- Excellent battery efficiency
- Multiple reticle choices
- Solar backup
- Designed for shotgun use
Cons
- Reticle can appear different depending on the shooter’s eye
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Factors to Consider When Choosing the 6 Best Holographic Sights For Shotguns
Window Size
A large viewing window can make it easier to locate the reticle while maintaining awareness of the surrounding area. This is especially relevant for close-range applications where rapid sight acquisition is more important than magnification.
Reticle
Consider whether you prefer a simple center dot or a circle-and-dot configuration. A large ring can make the reticle easier to locate quickly, while a simpler center dot provides a less cluttered sight picture.
Durability
Shotguns can produce substantial recoil, so the optic should be designed to withstand repeated use. Look at the housing construction, waterproofing, shock resistance, and manufacturer’s durability specifications.
Battery Life
True holographic sights generally consume more power than many LED reflex sights. For example, comparison data places several holographic models around the 1,000-hour range, while the HS510C’s manufacturer specifies up to 50,000 hours under stated conditions.
Size and Weight
A full-size optic may provide excellent durability and a generous sight picture, but it adds weight and occupies more space. Compact models can be preferable where receiver space is limited.
FAQs about the 6 Best Holographic Sights For Shotguns
- Are holographic sights good for shotguns?
They can be useful on shotguns because 1x holographic sights provide a wide sight picture, unlimited eye relief, and a reticle that can be acquired with both eyes open. The specific benefit depends on the shotgun, mounting system, and intended use.
- What is the difference between a holographic sight and a red dot?
A true holographic sight uses a different optical projection system from a conventional LED reflex sight. A red dot generally reflects LED light from the optic’s lens, while a holographic sight reconstructs a holographic reticle.
- Which battery type do holographic sights use?
Battery type varies by model. For example, the EOTech Model 512 uses AA batteries, while other compact holographic sights use different battery formats. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications for the particular model.
Conclusion
For the 6 Best Holographic Sights For Shotgunssetup, the optic should ultimately complement the firearm rather than simply offer the longest feature list. A compact holographic sight may suit one configuration, while a lightweight reflex optic may make more sense for another. Always follow the manufacturer’s mounting and zeroing instructions and applicable firearm-safety procedures.