I strapped on the Aimpoint ACRO S-2™ 9 MOA a few weeks back, and it’s been an interesting ride. Let’s break down the good, the bad, and the clays I (mostly) shattered along the way.
Big Dot, Big Wins
The S-2’s biggest feature, literally, is its 9 MOA red dot. Now, some red dots boast minuscule MOA counts for pinpoint precision. But for blasting clays, that big, bold dot is a godsend. It makes picking up the target fast and intuitive, especially in the heat of the moment. My follow-through improved noticeably, with less searching for the dot and more focus on the bird itself.
Ultra-Low Profile, Ultra-Nice Sight Picture
The S-2 sits incredibly low on the shotgun’s rib thanks to its innovative mount. This translates to a fantastic heads-up display. I maintained a clear sight picture with both eyes open, which is a huge advantage for tracking fast-moving targets. Plus, the minimalist design doesn’t snag on clothing or brush.
Battery Life Champ
Aimpoint claims a ridiculous 50,000 hours of battery life on a single CR2032. That’s basically five years of worry-free use. I haven’t put that to the test (yet), but numerous online reviews rave about the battery endurance. No more scrambling to replace a dead battery right before a big hunt.
Built Like a Tank (And a Little Heavy)
The S-2 is built for punishment. It’s submersible, shockproof, and impervious to most environmental nastiness. That solidity comes at a cost, though. It’s a bit heavier than some competitors. While not a dealbreaker, it is noticeable in the hand.
Not for Everything
While fantastic for shotguns, the S-2’s large dot wouldn’t be ideal for long-range rifle work. It excels at close to medium-range engagements, making it a great option for wing shooting and tactical applications.
Online Chatter
Customer reviews online are overwhelmingly positive. Shooters praise the ease of use, the excellent battery life, and the rugged construction. A few folks mentioned a slight learning curve with the large dot, but most adjusted quickly.
Alternatives to Consider
If the S-2’s hefty build or large dot size give you pause, there are options. Trijicon makes the RMR (Reflex Mini Red Dot) which offers a variety of dot sizes and is known for its durability. Burris offers the FastFire III, a lightweight and affordable red dot popular with shotgunners.
Perfect Pairings
The S-2 shines on shotguns with ventilated ribs. I mounted mine on a Beretta A400 Xtreme, and it feels tailor-made for the platform. However, Aimpoint offers various base plates to fit most shotguns.
The Verdict
The Aimpoint ACRO S-2™ 9 MOA is a fantastic red dot sight for shotgunners. The large, easy-to-see dot, the low profile mount, and the insane battery life make it a winner on the range. While a bit on the heavy side, the rugged build quality and overall performance make it a great choice for anyone who wants a red dot that can handle the elements and the excitement of the hunt.