Looking for a red dot sight that won’t break the bank? The Sightmark Ultra Shot Plus has been my budget optic of choice for a while now, and here’s what I’ve found after putting it through its paces.
Specs at a Glance:
- Reticle options: Red or Green Dot (selectable)
- Brightness settings: 5 for each color
- Battery: CR1632 (easy to find!)
- Weight: 9.2 ounces
- Mount: Quick detach included
Best Features:
The Ultra Shot Plus shines (pun intended) in its simplicity. The two-button controls are easy to use, even with gloves on. I love the option of red or green reticles, allowing me to adjust for different lighting conditions. The quick detach mount makes swapping it between firearms a breeze.
Advantages:
For the price, the Ultra Shot Plus is a steal. It holds zero well, meaning I can rely on it to stay accurate after sighting in. The multiple brightness settings are a big plus, especially when transitioning between bright sunlight and low-light situations. The wide field of view makes target acquisition a snap, perfect for close-quarters shooting.
Disadvantages:
Let’s be honest, this isn’t a top-of-the-line red dot. The glass quality isn’t the best, and the reticle can get a little fuzzy on the brightest settings. On higher calibers, there have been some reports of the sight losing zero after heavy use, something to consider for rifles.
My Experience:
I’ve primarily used the Ultra Shot Plus on my AR-pistol for plinking and close-range drills. It’s performed admirably in this role. The dot is crisp enough for quick target acquisition, and the sight itself has held zero well. However, I wouldn’t trust it for long-range shooting or putting through hundreds of rounds on a high-powered rifle.
Online Buzz:
Customer reviews on the Ultra Shot Plus are a mixed bag. Some users, like me, find it to be a great budget option for casual use. Others criticize the sight quality and question its durability on heavy recoiling firearms. There’s a common thread that this red dot is a good value for the price, but not a top-tier performer.
The Verdict:
The Sightmark Ultra Shot Plus is a solid choice for budget-minded shooters looking for a red dot sight for plinking or casual target acquisition. It’s easy to use, holds zero well for light use, and the quick detach mount offers versatility. However, if you need a sight for serious competition, long-range shooting, or heavy recoil calibers, you’ll likely want to invest in something more robust.
