The 7 Best Red Dots for Mossberg 835 is a powerful, versatile shotgun, often used for turkey hunting, waterfowl, and even deer when paired with slugs.
To unlock its full potential, many shooters add a red dot sight for faster target acquisition, better low-light performance, and improved accuracy. But with so many optics on the market, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.
This guide reviews the 7 Best Red Dots for Mossberg 835, highlighting their features, pros and cons, followed by a buyer’s guide and FAQs to help you make the best choice.
7 Best Red Dot for Mossberg 835
1. HOLOSUN HS407K X2 Red 6 MOA Dot Open Reflex
The Holosun HS407K X2 is a compact, rugged, and high-performance reflex sight that has quickly become a favorite among shooters looking to upgrade their shotgun optics.
While originally designed for subcompact pistols, its durable construction, bright reticle, and innovative technology make it a strong contender for shotguns like the Mossberg 835 Ulti-Mag, especially for turkey hunting, slug shooting, or close-quarters targeting.
The 6 MOA Red Dot Reticle is one of the HS407K X2’s strongest attributes, offering a crisp and highly visible aiming point that is ideal for fast target acquisition on moving game or in low-light hunting scenarios. With 12 brightness settings, it adapts seamlessly to different lighting environments, from dawn turkey hunts to evening range sessions.
Durability is another area where this optic excels. Its 7075-T6 aluminum housing with an anodized finish ensures rugged reliability, capable of handling the recoil of magnum shotgun loads.
The side-loading CR1632 battery tray offers up to 50,000 hours of use, making it highly practical and eliminating the need to remove the sight for battery changes.
Holosun’s Shake Awake Technology further enhances battery efficiency by automatically turning off the optic when idle and instantly reactivating it with movement. This ensures the dot is always ready without draining unnecessary power.
Additionally, the Lock Mode prevents accidental button presses during heavy use, keeping your settings secure.
Pros
- Crisp 6 MOA red dot ideal for shotguns and fast-moving targets
- 50,000-hour battery life with easy side-tray replacement
- Shake Awake Technology conserves power and ensures instant readiness
- 7075-T6 aluminum housing for exceptional durability under recoil
- 12 brightness settings including night vision compatibility
- Compact, lightweight, and low-profile design for natural shotgun mounting
- Lock Mode prevents accidental adjustments during active use
Cons
- Has Small window size
2. HOLOSUN HE507C-GR X2
The Holosun HE507C-GR X2 is a feature-rich open reflex sight that combines durability, cutting-edge technology, and versatile reticle options. While it was originally designed for full-sized pistols, its robust construction, green reticle clarity, and solar/battery dual power system make it an outstanding choice for shotguns like the Mossberg 835 Ulti-Mag.
One of the standout features of the HE507C-GR X2 is its Multi-Reticle System (MRS), which gives shooters the flexibility of a 2 MOA dot, a 32 MOA circle, or a circle-dot combination. For Mossberg 835 hunters, the circle-dot reticle is particularly valuable, allowing for rapid target acquisition on moving game while still offering the precision of a smaller aiming point.
Power management is another area where this optic shines. Equipped with Holosun’s Green Super LED, it delivers up to 50,000 hours of battery life on a CR1632 battery. But unlike many red dots, the HE507C-GR X2 also features Solar Failsafe technology, which provides a backup power source in bright light conditions and automatically adjusts reticle brightness to the environment.
The optic’s Shake Awake Technology further maximizes efficiency by powering down the reticle when idle and instantly reactivating it with the slightest movement. Combined with the Lock Mode, which prevents accidental button presses, it offers worry-free operation in the field.
Pros
- Multi-Reticle System (2 MOA dot, 32 MOA circle, or circle-dot) for versatility
- Green Super LED offers excellent visibility in bright outdoor environments
- Solar Failsafe provides backup power and automatic brightness adjustment
- Shake Awake Technology ensures instant readiness and conserves battery life
- Rugged 7075-T6 aluminum housing withstands heavy recoil
- Large 0.63×0.91 window improves situational awareness
- 50,000-hour battery life with side-loading tray for easy replacement
Cons
- Heavy
3. Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight
The Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 is a compact and dependable red dot sight that has built a reputation as a budget-friendly workhorse for a variety of firearms. With its rugged design and straightforward functionality, it pairs particularly well with the Mossberg 835 Ulti-Mag, providing quick target acquisition and reliable performance in the field.
The TRS-25 features a matte black finish with a crisp 3 MOA dot reticle that is well-suited for both precision shots and rapid aiming. With 11 brightness settings, it allows hunters to adapt to a variety of lighting conditions, from dawn woods hunts to midday sunlit fields. Its compact design also ensures it won’t add unnecessary bulk to your Mossberg 835, maintaining balance and ease of handling.
Mounting is simple thanks to its compatibility with most Picatinny rails, making it versatile across platforms. In addition to shotguns, it can be used on pistols, rifles, and muzzleloaders, adding to its appeal as a do-it-all red dot optic. The 70+ MOA adjustment range provides ample flexibility for windage and elevation, making it easy to zero for different shotgun loads.
Durability is where the TRS-25 really shines. It features a shockproof housing, allowing it to withstand the heavy recoil of magnum shotgun shells and the rough-and-tumble conditions of hunting environments.
The optic is O-ring sealed for waterproof protection, ensuring it stays dry even if completely submerged. Additionally, it is nitrogen purged, making it fog-proof and resistant to moisture and sudden temperature changes an essential trait for early-morning hunts or unpredictable weather.
Pros
- Crisp 3 MOA dot reticle for precision and fast target acquisition
- 11 brightness settings to adapt to various lighting environments
- Mounts easily on most Picatinny rails for Mossberg 835 compatibility
- 70+ MOA adjustment range for versatile zeroing
- Waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof construction ensures reliability in the field
- Compact and lightweight design keeps shotgun balance intact
- Affordable without sacrificing core performance
Cons
- Battery life is shorter compared to premium optics
4. Trijicon RMR Type 2 3.25 MOA Adjustable LED Red Dot Sight
The Trijicon RMR Type 2 3.25 MOA Adjustable LED Red Dot Sight is a premium optic that has earned a reputation for rugged reliability, precision, and adaptability, making it an excellent choice for use on the Mossberg 835.
Although it was originally designed with handguns in mind, its versatility and durability make it equally effective for shotguns, rifles, and tactical applications.
At just 1 ounce in weight and measuring 1.8″ x 1.1″ x 1″, the RMR Type 2 is compact and unobtrusive, which is especially beneficial on a 12-gauge shotgun like the Mossberg 835. Its 3.25 MOA red dot reticle strikes the right balance between quick target acquisition and precise aiming, ideal for both close-range hunting and fast-paced shooting scenarios.
Durability is where the RMR Type 2 stands out. Its housing is designed with military-grade materials, ensuring the optic can endure the harsh recoil of heavy shotgun loads as well as accidental bumps and drops in the field. The adjustable LED brightness settings allow you to fine-tune the dot’s intensity for changing light conditions, whether you are hunting at dawn, mid-day, or dusk.
Pros
- Ultra-durable construction
- 3.25 MOA dot
- Lightweight and compact at just 1 ounce
- Adjustable LED brightness settings
- Trusted Trijicon quality
Cons
- No mount included
5. Aimpoint Micro T-2 Red Dot Reflex Sight No Mount
The Aimpoint Micro T-2 Red Dot Reflex Sight is one of the most trusted and battle-tested optics available today, and it makes an excellent upgrade for the Mossberg 835. Known for its compact design, rugged reliability, and crystal-clear optics, the T-2 is built for hunters and tactical shooters who demand the highest level of performance.
One of its standout features is the advanced lens system, which provides unmatched light transmission and optical clarity.
This means you get a crisp, distortion-free view of your target, even in challenging lighting conditions. The 2 MOA red dot strikes an ideal balance for a shotgun: small enough for precise aiming at distance but large enough for quick target acquisition during fast-moving hunts.
The Micro T-2 also comes equipped with reinforced windage and elevation turrets and flip-up front and rear lens covers, protecting the optic from field abuse while ensuring long-term durability. With 12 brightness settings, including one that’s extra bright for direct sunlight, the T-2 adapts seamlessly to everything from low-light dawn hunts to midday glare.
Battery life is another area where Aimpoint shines. Powered by a CR2032 battery, the T-2 can run for up to 50,000 hours of constant operation on a single cell. This ensures reliability season after season, with minimal worry about losing power at a critical moment. While it comes with no mount included, it is highly versatile and can be paired with a variety of mounting solutions to fit the Mossberg 835.
Pros
- Advanced lens system delivers superior light transmission and clarity
- 2 MOA red dot balances speed and precision perfectly for shotguns
- Extremely long battery life (up to 50,000 hours on one CR2032)
- 12 brightness settings, including extra bright for sunny conditions
- Durable construction with reinforced turrets and protective flip caps
- Compact and lightweight, preserving shotgun balance
Cons
- Pricey
6. Burris FastFire 3 Red Dot Sight
The Burris FastFire 3 Red Dot Sight is a lightweight, versatile optic that works exceptionally well with the Mossberg 835 for both hunting and tactical shooting applications. Known for its compact design and reliable performance, this sight delivers quick target acquisition without weighing down your shotgun, making it an excellent choice for fast-paced shooting scenarios.
One of its most useful features is the bright red 4 MOA dot, which strikes a balance between rapid target acquisition and precision aiming. With parallax-free 1x magnification, the FastFire 3 allows shooters to keep both eyes open, ensuring wide situational awareness while staying on target. The sight also includes adjustable windage and elevation, giving users the flexibility to fine-tune accuracy with ease.
Another highlight is its automatic brightness sensor, which adjusts the reticle intensity according to ambient light conditions.
This ensures that whether you’re hunting in low light at dawn or under the midday sun, the dot remains perfectly visible without requiring constant manual adjustment. Burris’ Secure Mounting System makes the FastFire 3 highly adaptable, allowing it to be mounted on a wide range of firearms, including shotguns, rifles, pistols, and even muzzleloaders.
Pros
- Bright 4 MOA red dot for quick target acquisition and accuracy
- Automatic brightness sensor adapts to lighting conditions
- Compact and lightweight design maintains shotgun balance
- Parallax-free 1x magnification allows both-eyes-open shooting
- Adjustable windage and elevation for precision tuning
- Universal mounting system fits a wide range of firearms
Cons
- Battery life may be shorter
7. Swampfox Kingslayer Pistol Cut RMR 1×22 Micro Reflex Dot Sights
The Swampfox Kingslayer 1×22 Micro Reflex Dot Sight is a compact yet highly capable optic that brings versatility and precision to the Mossberg 835. Designed with an RMR footprint for maximum compatibility, it comes with an included low Picatinny mount, making it equally at home on shotguns, pistols, rifles, or other firearms.
This makes it a practical choice for shooters who want an optic that can transition between different platforms without sacrificing performance.
One of the standout features of the Kingslayer is its reticle versatility. Shooters can choose between a 3 MOA dot, a red circle dot, or a green circle dot reticle, giving them the flexibility to pick the aiming solution that best matches their environment and shooting style.
Paired with 13 illumination settings, this red dot ensures visibility across a wide range of lighting conditions, from dim dawn hunts to bright midday sun.
Battery management is another area where the Kingslayer excels. It runs on a CR1632 battery, which is conveniently located in a side tray that allows for quick changes without having to re-zero the optic.
An auto shut-off feature kicks in after 4 hours of inactivity, conserving power, and the sight can be instantly reactivated with the UP button. This ensures reliable readiness while minimizing battery drain.
Pros
- Multiple reticle options
- RMR footprint
- Side-loading battery tray
- Auto shut-off after 4 hours
- 13 illumination settings
- Ultra-lightweight and compact
Cons
- Not as rugged as higher-end military-grade optics
Read Also:
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Best Red Dots with RMR Footprint
Factors to consider when choosing the 7 Best Red Dot for Mossberg 835
Reticle Size and Type
The size and style of the reticle play a crucial role in how quickly and accurately you can acquire targets with the Mossberg 835. A larger dot (like 6 MOA) is faster to pick up in close-range hunting scenarios, making it ideal for moving targets like turkey or waterfowl. Meanwhile, a smaller dot (2–3 MOA) provides more precision at longer distances, which is useful when slug hunting or aiming for tighter shot placement.
Durability
The 7 Best Red Dots for Mossberg 835 is a rugged shotgun designed for tough hunting environments, so your optic must be equally durable. Look for waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof designs with sealed O-rings and nitrogen purging.
High-quality materials like 7075-T6 aluminum housings withstand recoil, rough handling, and harsh weather. Durable construction ensures your optic can survive bumps, drops, and the recoil from heavy 12-gauge loads without losing zero.
Size and Weight
The balance of your Mossberg 835 can be affected by the optic’s weight and size. A lightweight red dot is ideal because it won’t make the shotgun front-heavy during long hunts. Compact optics also minimize bulk, allowing for easier maneuverability in dense woods or while tracking moving game. However, ensure the sight’s window size is large enough to provide a clear and quick sight picture without feeling cramped.
Price
The 7 Best Red Dots for Mossberg 835 vary widely in cost, from budget-friendly models to premium military-grade optics. When choosing for the 7 Best Red Dots for Mossberg 835, consider how often and in what conditions you’ll use it. If you’re a casual hunter, a mid-range optic with reliable durability and features may be sufficient.
FAQs of Of the 7 Best Red Dot for Mossberg 835
- What size MOA dot is best for a Mossberg 835?
The best MOA size depends on your intended use. A larger dot (4–6 MOA) is better for quick target acquisition at close range, such as turkey or waterfowl hunting. For slug hunting or more precise shots at distance, a smaller dot (2–3 MOA) provides greater accuracy without covering too much of the target.
- Do red dots hold up to the recoil of a Mossberg 835?
Yes, if you choose a high-quality optic built for durability. Look for sights that are shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof, and preferably made with strong materials like 7075-T6 aluminum.
- How important is battery life for a shotgun red dot?
Battery life is very important, especially for hunting. Many modern red dots offer up to 50,000 hours of runtime on a single battery. Features like Shake Awake or auto shut-off extend longevity by conserving power when the sight isn’t in use. A side-loading battery tray is also a bonus, allowing battery replacement without re-zeroing the optic.
- Do I need a special mount to use a red dot on my Mossberg 835?
Most Mossberg 835 shotguns use a Picatinny rail for optics, making mounting straightforward. Some red dots also use standard footprints such as RMR or Docter, which can be adapted with mounting plates.
Conclusion
The 7 Best Red Dots for Mossberg 835 is a workhorse shotgun, and pairing it with the right red dot sight enhances its versatility for hunting and shooting applications. No matter your choice, a quality red dot sight will make your Mossberg 835 faster, more accurate, and more enjoyable to shoot.