How do red dot sights work?

[richardp20]

Can anyone tell me how a red dot sight works? I have one on my Ruger MarkIII Target pistol. If I hold my gun still and move my head, the red dot moves but so does the target image. What is going on? Why doesn't it have cross hairs?

 

[Glock]

Red dot sight - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

 

[esrice]

Red dots run on magic. True story. There are some more scientific explanations, but this one is the simplest.

On a quality red dot, you should be able to move your head all around and your shot should hit where the dot is-- regardless of where your head is in relation to the optic itself.

Magic.

 

[chuddly]

Red dots run on magic. True story. There are some more scientific explanations, but this one is the simplest.

On a quality red dot, you should be able to move your head all around and your shot should hit where the dot is-- regardless of where your head is in relation to the optic itself.

Magic.

Magic....and the dot is made from unicorn blood. Thats why it glows red. Unless its a green dot and those are made from Leprechaun testicles.

 

[richardp20]

Red dot sight - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

My son, who gave me the red dot for my birthday, first said it is magic and then, when I wanted more, referred me to Wikipedia. As a retired engineer with lots of time on my hands I would like something a bit more technical. I thought someone out there might have similar want to know obsession like mine.

 

[Hop]

Light emitting from the glowing drop of unicorn blood reflects off of the front glass in the sight then back to your eye.

Aimpoint has some drawings but they leave out the secret about the unicorns.

red dot sight technology,optical sight,advanced technology

 

[BDBHoover]

Guess mine has unicorn blood and a separate compartment for the leprechaun testicles..... Heard about the unicorn blood before but the leprechaun testes is new to me lol

 

[GodFearinGunTotin]

My son, who gave me the red dot for my birthday, first said it is magic and then, when I wanted more, referred me to Wikipedia. As a retired engineer with lots of time on my hands I would like something a bit more technical. I thought someone out there might have similar want to know obsession like mine.

I clicked on this thread because like you, it also struck a curiosity button for me.

In another way, I hope to be like you someday: a retired engineer!