Aimpoint Micro S-1

I’ve always been a bead-sight traditionalist when it comes to shotguns. But after struggling with aging eyes and the desire for a quicker target acquisition on clays, I decided to dive into the world of red dot sights. Enter the Aimpoint Micro S-1, a sight specifically designed for shotguns. Here’s what I discovered after putting it through its paces.

Specs and Features:

• Compact design: This little guy sits low on the shotgun’s rib, maintaining a familiar sight picture.
• 6 MOA red dot: A good balance between a precise aiming point and fast acquisition for moving targets.
• 12 brightness settings: From low-light turkey hunting to bright clays under the summer sun, there’s a perfect dot intensity.
• Rugged construction: Aimpoint is known for its bombproof reliability, and the Micro S-1 is no exception.
• Long battery life: Boasts up to 5 years on a single CR2032 battery (though I still plan to replace it annually).

Best in Show:

The biggest win for me is the speed of target acquisition. With both eyes open, focusing on the clay and having the red dot appear instinctively makes a world of difference. My follow-through feels smoother too, thanks to the reduced need to line up the bead and front sight.

Advantages Over Iron Sights:

• Faster target acquisition, especially on moving targets like clays or birds.
• Improved low-light performance.
• More forgiving eye placement compared to iron sights. This is a huge benefit for aging eyes or shooters who struggle with a consistent cheek weld.

Not Without Some Quirks:

• Price: This sight isn’t cheap, but Aimpoint’s reputation for quality and durability helps justify the cost.
• Initial learning curve: It takes some practice to get used to the red dot sight picture and not focusing on the housing itself.

My Experience:

After the initial adjustment period, I was amazed at the difference the Micro S-1 made on the clay range. My hit rate went up noticeably, and I found myself focusing less on the mechanics of aiming and more on the target itself. It’s also given me the confidence to consider taking the shotgun out for turkey hunting in the pre-dawn hours.

What Others Are Saying:

Online reviews are overwhelmingly positive. Shooters praise the speed and accuracy it brings to their shotgun game. A few users mentioned the dot size being a bit large for long-range slug applications, but ideal for close- to mid-range birdshot.

Final Verdict:

The Aimpoint Micro S-1 isn’t just a red dot sight; it’s a game-changer for shotgunners. While the price tag might sting a bit, the increased speed, accuracy, and low-light capabilities make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who wants to elevate their shotgun performance.