In this article, we explore the best Holosun for shotgun, with key features, top models and expert tips to help you choose the right optic.
I’ve always loved the simplicity and speed that red dot optics bring to shotgun shooting. Unlike traditional sights, they allow you to keep both eyes open, track moving targets effortlessly and take shots with confidence.
Finally, I’ll guide you through a practical buying guide and answer common questions, so you can make an informed choice and pick the optic that best suits your shotgun needs.
Advantages of the Holosun Optics for Shotguns
Fast Target Acquisition
One of the most noticeable advantages is how quickly you can pick up targets. Holosun sights with crisp red dots or circle-dot reticles allow you to find and engage targets almost instantly. This is essential when swinging on moving game, working in tactical drills or shooting in close quarters where every fraction of a second counts. The clarity and simplicity of the reticle keep your focus on the target rather than struggling to line up irons.
Versatile Multi-Reticle Options
Many Holosun optics feature a Multi-Reticle System, allowing you to switch between a dot, a circle or a dot-with-circle reticle. This flexibility means you can adapt your sight picture to the situation. The circle helps you quickly locate a target at short range, while the dot alone improves precision for longer shots. This versatility makes your shotgun effective in a variety of hunting or shooting scenarios.
Long-Lasting Battery Life
Holosun optics are designed with power efficiency in mind. With batteries lasting up to 50,000 hours and features like Shake Awake, your sight only uses energy when in use. This minimizes the need for frequent battery replacements and ensures your optic is always ready when you need it. Some models also offer solar charging or internal rechargeable batteries, providing additional reliability.
Reliable Performance in Low-Light
Shotgun hunting often involves early morning or late evening conditions. Holosun sights come with multiple brightness settings and features like Solar Failsafe, which adjusts reticle intensity automatically based on light conditions. Some settings are also compatible with night vision, giving you the ability to aim accurately in virtually any lighting environment.
Durable and Lightweight Construction
Shotguns produce significant recoil, making durability crucial. Holosun optics are built with 7075 T6 aluminum or titanium housings and often include nitrogen-purged or enclosed designs. This protects the optic from shock, dust and moisture while keeping the weight low. The result is an optic that can handle rugged use without compromising your shotgun’s balance or handling.
Easy and Precise Adjustments
Adjustability is key for maintaining accuracy with different loads or distances. Holosun sights provide windage and elevation adjustments with 0.5 MOA or 1 MOA clicks and generous travel ranges. This allows shooters to zero their shotgun quickly and accurately, ensuring consistent performance whether using slugs, buckshot or practicing on clay targets.
Enhanced Confidence and Shooting Comfort
Using a high-quality Holosun optic gives you confidence behind the gun. Unlimited eye relief and parallax-free designs make aiming more natural and comfortable. You can keep both eyes open, maintain situational awareness and execute fast shots without the strain of aligning traditional sights. This advantage contributes to better accuracy, faster follow-up shots and a more enjoyable shooting experience overall.
Key Features to Look for in the Best Holosun Optics for Shotguns
Red Dot Size
The red dot size directly impacts both speed and accuracy. Smaller dots like 2 MOA allow for precise shots at longer distances, while larger dots or circle-dot combinations are easier to acquire quickly for fast-moving targets. For shotguns, a dot that balances quick target acquisition with accuracy ensures you stay confident whether you are swinging on birds, clays or tactical targets.
Multi-Reticle System
Many Holosun optics come with a Multi-Reticle System (MRS) that lets you switch between a dot, a circle or a dot-with-circle reticle. This flexibility makes it easier to adapt to different shooting situations. The circle helps guide your eye to the dot for rapid shots, while using only the dot increases precision for longer-range shots. Multi-reticle sights give your shotgun a level of versatility that single-reticle optics cannot match.
Battery Life and Power Management
A long-lasting power source is essential in the field. Holosun sights often use CR1632 or CR2032 batteries with up to 50,000 hours of life. Features like Shake Awake turn off the optic when the gun is stationary and instantly reactivate it when moved, conserving power. Some models also include internal rechargeable batteries or solar charging, so you can trust your sight will work whenever you need it.
Solar Failsafe
Battery failures are never convenient, especially in the middle of a hunt. Solar Failsafe ensures the optic remains operational when exposed to natural or artificial light. In Auto Mode, the sight adjusts the reticle brightness based on ambient conditions, so you always have a visible aiming point without constant manual adjustments. This is particularly valuable for extended trips or storage periods between hunts.
Durability and Housing Material
Shotguns deliver heavy recoil, so durability is critical. Holosun optics use strong yet lightweight materials like 7075 T6 aluminum or titanium for their housings. Nitrogen-purged and enclosed designs protect against dust, moisture and fog. A well-built optic can handle rough handling, maintain zero and last through years of shooting without performance issues.
Adjustment and Zeroing
Reliable windage and elevation adjustments allow you to zero your shotgun for different loads or distances. Most Holosun sights offer 1 MOA or 0.5 MOA per click with generous travel ranges. Quick and precise adjustments mean you can swap between slugs, buckshot or field targets without losing confidence in your aim.
Window Size and Field of View
The optic’s window size influences how easily you acquire targets. Larger windows provide a wide field of view, ideal for swinging on moving targets. Clear, distortion-free glass ensures the reticle stays crisp and easy to see. A well-sized window balances speed and accuracy, allowing fast target acquisition without sacrificing precision.
Best Holosun for Shotgun
1. Holosun AEMS X2 PRO/CORE Reflex Sight
Shotguns demand an optic that can keep up with quick target transitions and heavy recoil. The Holosun AEMS X2 PRO/CORE fits that role well. It’s compact, sturdy and easy to run on a shotgun without throwing off the balance. The 1.1 x 0.87 inch window feels generous, giving you a clear picture when you’re trying to pick up fast-moving targets.
Power is another area where it shines. The CR2032 battery can last up to 50,000 hours and with Shake Awake, the sight comes alive the moment you move it. It even remembers your last brightness setting, so you don’t waste time resetting before a shot. That’s a big deal in hunting or defensive use where seconds matter.
The 2 MOA dot is sharp and easy to track. With 10 brightness settings for daylight and 2 for low light, you can use it in just about any outdoor condition, from early morning turkey hunts to wide-open fields. Adjustments are straightforward too, with 0.5 MOA clicks that feel responsive and precise.
As for toughness, the AEMS X2 holds its ground. The 7075 T6 aluminum housing feels solid, and its IP67 rating means dust and water won’t be a problem. You can even swap the side-mounted battery without removing the optic, which is a small but handy detail.
All in all, this sight blends reliable performance with a build that can take abuse. For shotgun shooters who want speed, clarity and confidence, it’s a dependable pick.
Pros
- 50,000-hour battery life with CR2032 cell
- Shake Awake with last setting recall
- Crisp 2 MOA red dot with multiple brightness levels
- Clear window for quick target pickup
- Water and dust resistant with IP67 rating
- Rugged 7075 T6 aluminum body
- Easy side-mounted battery change
- Covered by lifetime manufacturer warranty
Cons
- No night vision settings included
- Premium pricing may not suit every budget
2. Holosun SCRS 2 MOA Rifle Sight
If you want an optic that won’t weigh your shotgun down, the Holosun SCRS is worth a look. It’s a compact 20mm tube sight that only adds about 2.5 ounces to your setup. The red 2 MOA dot feels crisp and easy to track, especially when swinging onto fast targets or working close-range drills.
Power management is where this sight really shines. It runs on an internal rechargeable battery, backed up by solar charging. In practice, that means you rarely have to worry about running out of juice. Auto Mode adjusts brightness to the environment on its own, but if you prefer dialing things in yourself, Manual Mode gives you 12 settings including 2 that work with night vision.
The Shake Awake function saves battery by shutting the dot off when the gun is still, then bringing it back instantly when you move. And even if the battery fails, Solar Failsafe keeps the reticle visible in daylight. For a shotgun that might sit in the safe for weeks until hunting season, that’s a reassuring feature.
The body is tough for its size. Made from 7075 T6 aluminum, it feels solid without being bulky. It’s IP67 rated, which means dust and rain aren’t going to be a problem. Adjustments are simple, with 1 MOA clicks and plenty of travel range to zero with different loads.
All told, the SCRS is light, rugged and nearly self-sustaining on power. It’s a smart pick for anyone who wants a reliable red dot on a shotgun without adding extra bulk.
Pros
- Solar charging plus rechargeable internal battery
- 2 MOA dot is clear and sharp
- Auto and manual brightness controls
- Shake Awake for quick readiness
- Solar Failsafe backup in daylight
- Extremely lightweight at 2.45 ounces
- Rugged 7075 T6 aluminum housing
- IP67 dust and water protection
- Lifetime manufacturer warranty
Cons
- 1 MOA adjustments may feel coarse for fine tuning
3. Holosun HE510C-GR / HS510C Reflex Sight
If you are looking for a reflex sight that works well on a shotgun, the Holosun HE510C-GR is worth checking out. It feels solid in hand without adding too much weight. The aluminum body with a titanium hood handles recoil like a champ and the quick-detach co-witness mount keeps the sight aligned and ready. The viewing window is large enough to quickly pick up moving targets without feeling cramped.
One of the things I like about this sight is the Multi-Reticle System. You can use the 65 MOA circle with the 2 MOA dot for fast shots. When you need more precision, you can turn the circle off and just use the dot. It’s simple and intuitive, whether you’re hunting or practicing at the range.
Battery life is impressive. The CR2032 can last up to 50,000 hours as the Shake Awake keeps the reticle off when the gun isn’t moving. It powers back on instantly when you swing the shotgun. If the battery does die, Solar Failsafe keeps the dot visible in daylight. There are ten daylight brightness levels and two for low light, so you can adapt easily to changing conditions.
Adjusting the sight is straightforward. Windage and elevation move in 0.5 MOA clicks and the ±50 MOA travel range gives plenty of room to zero. The sight is parallax free and offers unlimited eye relief, so it feels natural when aiming.
This sight blends durability, smart features and flexible aiming options. For shooters who want confidence and speed on a shotgun, the HE510C-GR is a reliable choice.
Pros
- Multi-Reticle System for circle and dot or just dot
- Shake Awake turns on instantly
- Solar Failsafe works if battery dies
- Long 50,000-hour battery life
- Large clear window for easy aiming
- Durable aluminum and titanium construction
- Smooth 0.5 MOA adjustments
- Parallax free with unlimited eye relief
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- No night vision settings
4. Holosun HE507C-GR X2 / HS507C X2 Reflex Sight
Shotgun shooters who want speed and accuracy without fuss will appreciate the Holosun HE507C-GR X2. While it’s designed for pistols, its lightweight and durable design makes it easy to mount on a shotgun without affecting balance or handling. The window provides a clear sight picture, helping you pick up fast targets in the field with minimal effort.
The green 2 MOA dot combined with a 32 MOA circle gives flexibility depending on your shooting style. You can use the circle for quick target acquisition at closer ranges and switch to the dot for precision shots. This multi-reticle setup is intuitive and keeps your focus on the target instead of fiddling with the optic.
Battery life is excellent. A CR1632 powers the sight for up to 50,000 hours and Shake Awake ensures the reticle only turns on when the shotgun moves, conserving energy. If your battery ever runs out, Solar Failsafe keeps the dot visible in daylight. Ten daylight brightness settings and two for low light allow you to adapt quickly to changing conditions from early morning hunts to shaded woods.
Durability is also strong. The 7075 aluminum housing is tough and the side-mounted battery tray makes swapping power sources simple without removing the optic. Adjustments move in 1 MOA clicks with a ±50 MOA travel range, letting you zero your shotgun reliably. The sight is parallax free and offers unlimited eye relief, making aiming natural and effortless.
The HE507C-GR X2 blends durability, ease of use, and adaptable reticle options. For shotgun users who want a compact, reliable red dot that responds quickly, this optic is a smart choice.
Pros
- Multi-reticle system with dot and circle
- Shake Awake turns reticle on instantly
- Solar Failsafe backup
- Long 50,000-hour battery life
- Clear window for quick target pickup
- Durable 7075 aluminum housing
- Easy side-mounted battery change
- Simple 1 MOA adjustments
- Parallax free with unlimited eye relief
Cons
- Circle may feel large for precision shooters
5. Holosun HE509T X2 Reflex Pistol Sight
The Holosun HE509T X2 is a compact and durable reflex sight that performs well on shotguns. It features a nitrogen-purged, enclosed LED design that protects the optic from fog, dust and rough handling. The red 2 MOA dot and 32 MOA circle make aiming fast and accurate. You can use the circle to quickly locate your target and the dot for precise shots at longer distances.
Battery life is impressive. A CR1632 powers the sight for up to 50,000 hours. Shake Awake conserves energy by turning the dot off when the gun is still and instantly activating it when the shotgun moves. Solar Failsafe ensures the reticle remains visible in daylight even if the battery runs low. With twelve brightness settings, including two for night vision, you can adjust the dot to suit any lighting condition.
The titanium housing is strong yet light at 1.76 ounces. Lock Mode prevents accidental changes to your settings. Adjustments are simple with 1 MOA clicks and a ±30 MOA travel range. The sight is parallax free and offers unlimited eye relief, making it easy to acquire targets quickly in fast-moving situations.
Overall, the HE509T X2 combines durability, smart technology and flexible aiming options. It is a reliable optic for hunters and tactical shooters who want confidence and speed on any shotgun setup.
Pros
- Multi-reticle system with dot, circle or both
- Shake Awake for instant activation
- Solar Failsafe keeps reticle visible
- Long battery life
- Lock Mode prevents accidental changes
- Lightweight titanium housing
- Clear glass for precise aiming
- Simple 1 MOA adjustments
- Unlimited eye relief
Cons
- Circle can be distracting at longer ranges
Next read: 5 Best Holosun Optic for Springfield Echelon
Frequently Asked Questions
Which features help with fast target acquisition on a shotgun?
Red or green dot optics with responsive reticles make it easier to pick up moving targets quickly. Technologies that activate the reticle instantly when the gun moves save precious seconds, while options for single dots or circle-dot combinations allow shooters to choose the view that best suits fast or precise shooting scenarios.
How do battery life and solar backup support long hunting trips?
Optics with long-lasting batteries and solar backup reduce the risk of running out of power in the field. Solar Failsafe can use natural or artificial light to keep the reticle visible if the battery fails, ensuring the sight is always ready for early morning hunts or extended outdoor trips.
Are these optics durable enough for shotgun recoil and outdoor conditions?
Yes. These shotgun optics are built with sturdy metal housings that resist shock and repeated recoil. Many models feature protection against dust, moisture and rough handling, making them reliable in tough outdoor conditions and ensuring consistent performance over time.
Conclusion
Holosun red dot optics have transformed the way shotgun shooters approach both hunting and tactical shooting. By offering fast target acquisition, precise aiming and adaptable brightness for different lighting conditions, these sights make every shot feel more confident and controlled. Features like Shake Awake, Solar Failsafe and multi-reticle systems enhance reliability and convenience, ensuring your optic performs when it matters most.
For shooters seeking a well-rounded choice, the AEMS X2 PRO/CORE stands out as the best overall, balancing durability, clarity and user-friendly features. If you are looking for strong performance without stretching your budget, the SCRS 2 MOA offers excellent functionality in a lightweight design.
For those who want top-tier construction and advanced features, the HE509T X2 delivers premium titanium housing, versatile reticle options and unmatched durability for serious shooting situations.