I’d been a bead-sight traditionalist for years, but after some less-than-stellar wing shooting sessions, I decided to explore red dot sights for my shotgun. Enter the Aimpoint Micro S-1. This little guy quickly became a game-changer.
Micro Marvel: Big Pros of the Micro S-1
- Super Size, Super Sight Picture: The Micro S-1 is aptly named. It’s compact and lightweight, sitting low on the shotgun’s rib without obstructing my view. The 6 MOA dot is a perfect size for shotguns – big enough to see quickly, but not so big that it covers up targets.
- Dot Done Right: Aimpoint’s reputation for bomb-proof red dots is well-deserved. The Micro S-1’s dot is crisp and clear, with 12 brightness settings to handle any lighting condition. Plus, it uses AAA batteries, which are easy to find and swap out in the field.
- Built to Last: This sight is tough as nails. Machined aluminum housing and a mil-spec hard anodized finish shrug off bumps and scrapes. It’s even submersible – no worries if I get caught in a downpour.
Not Quite Perfect: A Few Cons to Consider
- Battery Cap Quirks: The battery cap feels a little flimsy, and I have to be careful not to overtighten it. A minor annoyance, but something to keep an eye on.
- Limited Reticle Options: Unlike some red dots, the Micro S-1 only has the 6 MOA dot option. For some shooters, a smaller dot might be preferable.
- Sight Seeing: While the sight itself is fantastic, finding the right mount for your specific shotgun can be a bit of a chore. Definitely do your research beforehand.
My Experience in the Field
Since slapping the Micro S-1 on my shotgun, my wing shooting has gone from ho-hum to hero. The red dot makes acquiring targets lightning fast, especially on those quick-flushing birds. I’ve also noticed an improvement in my accuracy, particularly at longer ranges. The sight’s intuitive design and always-on functionality (no waiting for reticle illumination) have really boosted my confidence in the field.
What Folks Are Saying Online
Online reviews for the Micro S-1 are overwhelmingly positive. Shooters praise its durability, clarity, and ease of use. Many, like me, found it to be a significant upgrade over traditional bead sights, particularly for shotguns used for hunting turkeys or predators. A few reviewers mentioned a preference for a smaller dot size, but overall, the sentiment is clear: the Micro S-1 is a winner.
Alternatives and Perfect Pairings
If the 6 MOA dot seems a bit large, the Aimpoint Micro T-2 offers a 2 MOA option. However, for shotguns, the bigger dot of the Micro S-1 is generally preferred. As for fit, the Micro S-1 is specifically designed for shotguns with vent ribs. So, it’s a perfect match for most pump-action shotguns, semi-autos, and even some over-unders.
Final Verdict
The Aimpoint Micro S-1 might be small, but it packs a big punch when it comes to shotgun performance. It’s easy to use, built to last, and delivers a clear, fast sight picture that translates to more birds (or clays) in the bag. While there are a few minor drawbacks, the overall benefits make this red dot a fantastic upgrade for any shotgun enthusiast.