I’ve been on the hunt for a reflex sight that could elevate my AR-platform rifle to the next level, particularly for close-quarters situations. After scouring reviews and comparing features, the Sightmark Ultra Shot Plus kept rising to the top. So, I decided to take the plunge and see if it lived up to the hype.
Best Features and First Impressions
Right off the bat, the Ultra Shot Plus impressed with its lightweight design. Coming in at a mere 9.2 ounces, it didn’t weigh down my rifle at all. This is a major plus for maneuverability, especially during fast-paced drills. The quick detach mount made attaching and removing the sight a breeze, allowing me to switch between irons sights and the red dot with ease.
One of the features that initially drew me in was the multiple reticle options. I can choose between a 4 MOA dot, a 6 MOA circle dot, or a combination of both. This versatility allows me to fine-tune my aiming depending on the situation. On close targets, the larger circle dot offers a faster acquisition, while the single dot provides more precision for longer shots.
Brightness control is another area where the Ultra Shot Plus shines. With its ten illumination settings, I was able to find the perfect level for any lighting condition, from the dimmest indoor range to a bright sunny day at the shooting park. The red and green reticle options further enhance visibility based on personal preference and background contrast.
Putting It Through Its Paces
After zeroing the sight, I dove into some drills at the range. The unlimited eye relief was a game-changer. I could maintain a proper sight picture regardless of where I positioned my eye behind the sight, which is a huge advantage compared to traditional iron sights. This flexibility allowed for a more natural head position and faster target acquisition.
The red dot performed admirably. It stayed crisp and clear throughout my shooting session, and the various reticle options proved useful. The 6 MOA circle dot was perfect for quick engagements at short distances, while the 4 MOA dot provided a more precise aiming point for targets farther out. Switching between them was a breeze, although it’s important to remember that changing reticles requires re-zeroing.
Durability and Usability
The housing of the Ultra Shot Plus feels solid and well-constructed. It took the bumps and jostles of range time without any issues. While I wouldn’t recommend purposely abusing it, it seems to be built tough enough to handle the normal wear and tear that comes with practical use.
The buttons for adjusting the reticle and brightness are conveniently located on the side of the sight. They were easy to manipulate, even while wearing gloves. Battery life seems decent so far, but naturally, that will depend on usage frequency and brightness settings.
What Others Are Saying
Customer reviews online generally echo my experience. Many users praise the Ultra Shot Plus for its affordability, lightweight design, and clear red dot. Some reviewers mentioned a preference for a lower 1/3 co-witness mount compared to the absolute co-witness mount that comes included. This can be easily remedied with an aftermarket riser mount. A handful of comments discussed shorter battery life than expected, but this seems to be a minority opinion.
Alternatives and Applications
If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line, premium reflex sight, there are definitely options on the market. However, they often come with a significantly higher price tag. The Ultra Shot Plus offers great value for the price, making it an attractive option for budget-minded shooters.
In terms of application, this red dot sight is ideal for AR-platform rifles and shotguns. Its close-quarters focus makes it a great choice for home defense or tactical shooting scenarios. However, it can also be useful for plinking or target shooting at moderate distances.
The Final Verdict
The Sightmark Ultra Shot Plus Reflex Sight has become a reliable and valuable addition to my AR rifle. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and offers a variety of reticle options to suit different shooting situations. While it might not be the top-tier option on the market, it punches well above its weight class in terms of value and performance. If you’re looking for an affordable red dot sight to elevate your close-quarters shooting, the Ultra Shot Plus is definitely worth considering.