When it comes to finding the best shotgun in the town, the name Kel-Tec KSG always remains on the top of any shooter’s priority list. This 12 gauge shotgun is popular because of its pump action feature that makes it reliable enough to use it for various purposes.
The Kel Tec KSG bullpup design ensures extra capacity and standard velocity for better accessibility. Besides, the Picatinny style rails on both the top and bottom of the shotgun are perfect for attaching any external sights.
There are many options for Kel Tec KSG sights in the market. But I will be talking about the top best sights for Kel Tec KSG shotgun so that you can find the best one that matches perfectly with your needs.
Although you will find some best iron sights for KSG, here I will be mainly concentrating on the reflex sights such as red dot sights, holographic sights, and laser sights from which we can find the best optic for the KSG shotgun.
But before we dive into the reviews of the top KSG shotgun sights, let’s look at the buying guide where I have discussed all the important points of optic sights. That way you will have a better understanding of what to expect from these KSG optics.
Buying Guide For KSG Sights
While talking about the Kel Tec KSG sights, the following points are important enough to take note of before choosing the right sight for your weapon. Through the buying guide, you will know what to look for in a reflex sight and what matches with your preference.
Sight Types
You can find several kinds of reflex sights in the market for your KSG shotgun. What is important is that you decide on the type of sight you want for your firearm.
The most common and usable reflex sights are red dot sights, holographic sights, ghost ring sights, magnifiers, and laser lights. Every optic has its own specifications and advantages. So choose the one that suits your needs the most.
Reticle
After deciding what kind of sight you want to go for your KSG gun, the next thing you need to look at is the reticle. Most of the reticles in optical sights have MOA measurements but you can also go for MRAD in case you are comfortable using it.
Both red dot and holographic sights give two options for reticles- dot and circle. Sometimes having both of them in one sight acts as an added benefit.
Besides, choosing the reticle color is also important. You need to pick a color that is visible in low light conditions and contrasts with the background setting.
Light Transmission
The light transmission quality of the sights is also essential in determining a good optic. For KSG red dot sights you will need an objective lens that has enough window panels so that you can get more light transmitted through them.
At the same time, it is necessary to go for fully multi-layered lens glass for better light transmission in order to have clear visibility of the target.
Battery Life
Next important in the line is the battery life and its quality. Most of the Kel Tec KSG sights use lithium batteries for energy saving and better performance.
However, you will see a variation in their runtime depending on their brightness level. Since these sights do not take too much energy, their batteries last for a long time ranging from 10,000 hours to 30,000 hours. Choosing a sight with better runtime will ensure longer support.
Design & Weight
In the case of housing structure, you will find two styles- open and tube/pipe style sights. The open sights are prone to more breakage and scratches than the tube style optics.
For that reason, when choosing Kel Tec KSG red dot sights it is better to go for the tube sights although they have limited window panels.
In the case of the weight range, both holographic and red dot sights should not weigh more than 11 ounces as the KSG shotguns are already on the heavier side. That way you can maintain a good posture while using the weapon with the sights.
Durability
Finally, the durability and reliability of the reflex sights also play an important role in choosing the best optic for Kel Tec KSG.
You need to choose optical sights with high strength housing materials that are able to withstand strong 12 gauge calibration of KSG Kel-Tec shotguns. Plus, make sure these sights are water resistant and fogproof.
Now that we have all the important facts in order about the reflex sights for KSG guns, it is time to move on to the next part, which is reviewing all the top products for KSG. So, let’s begin!
1. EOTECH XPS2 Holographic Weapon Sight
The first item on my list of sights for Kel Tec KSG is the Eotech XPS2 Holographic Weapon Sight which comes with a total 3 reticle options- one 68 MOA ring and two 1 MOA dots to meet with every challenge that comes your way.
You get several model options to select your desired reticle style for this XPS2 sight. The 68 MOA ring will cover you until 7 yds which is perfect if you want to use it for home defense or any close range targeting.
The second dot reticle goes from 50 to 200 yds and the third one reaches up to 500 yds. This is perfect for any long distance shooting.
This holographic sight mounts on both 1” Weaver and MIL-STD 1913 rails so it will easily attach to the top of the KSG shotgun. This also leaves rail space in case you want to attach any magnifier or iron sights.
In case you are wondering whether the sight will cover you during low light conditions or not, you don’t need to worry because this Eotech sight has a total of 20 brightness settings to match any lighting situation, one thing I have to say is that this sight is not night vision compatible. That is the only downside I can see for now.
Similar to other reflex sights the Eotech one uses a CR123 lithium battery which is not up to the par of CR2032 batteries. This will give you 1000 hours of continuous runtime at the nominal setting 12.
The battery life is not its strongest point when you are looking for something sustainable for longer hours.
But this is giving you both-eyes-open shooting experience along with 0.5 MOA adjustments for windage and elevation. This KSG Eotech sight has buttons on the rear side and weighs only 9 oz. You can use it under 10 ft of water and it is fogproof as well.
Therefore, you are getting the shortest and lightest HWS sight with 3 reticle options that will give the best aiming experience with your KSG firearm.
Can this sight take 20 rounds of firing from 12 gauge shotguns like KSG?
Yes, the Eotech sight is durable and strong enough to take 20 rounds from 12-gauge shotguns. This sight is best for turkey and coyote hunting.
Will you need additional mount to achieve lower ⅓ co-witness with this sight?
Yes, you will need an Eotech riser mount in order to lower ⅓ co-witness with the iron sights of your KSG weapon.
Do you need to reset zero after replacing the battery?
No, since the holographic sight has a battery compartment in the front, it does not interfere with the setting of the sight. So, there is no need to reset zero after the battery dies.
2. Meprolight M21 Day/Night Reflex Sight
The next product in my review list is the Meprolight M21 kit where you get everything in one set. The package has a mounting base with two quick release levers that you can adjust to get your desired height on the KSG firearm. You are also getting a flash guard kit, lens cleaning cloth, and dust cover.
What’s more amazing is that this sight has a total of five reticle options that include a 4.3 MOA, 5.5 MOA dot triangle, Bullseye, and Open X. I found it fascinating that you are getting an illuminated reticle with a constant, all-light aiming capability that too without any battery.
Well, this is possible because the sight has a protected fiber optic light collector system that absorbs light during the day and a self-powered tritium light source that allows the reticle to illuminate at night time.
In addition, there is no need for you to worry about these changes in the reticles as the transition of the two systems happens instantly with the need of change and it is automatic, meaning the sight itself picks up the difference in the lighting condition and changes accordingly.
Besides, the Meprolight sight is the first reflex sight that is designed for close quarter combat which means this sight is perfect for any tactical situation and even for home defense. Its large 30mm diameter objective lens gives a wide field of view which also advocates both-eyes-open shooting.
However, this will not perform well for any long distance aiming. Keep that in mind if you prefer long range targeting.
What kind of co-witness does the sight offer?
With the quick release levers, you can adjust the height of the reflex sight and mount it in your desired position. As a result, you can both full and lower ⅓ co-witness with other optical sights.
Is the sight good for shooters with astigmatism?
The sight has 1x magnification which might not suffice for short sighted shooters. But you can use the Meprolight sight with the Eotech Micro Magnifier for better magnification.
What color are the fiber optics and tritium?
Both the fiber optics and tritium in this sight have red illumination so that you can easily see in any low light setting.
3. HOLOSUN – HS510C Reflex Red Dot Sight
In the line of searching for the best red dot for the KSG shotgun, the Holosun HS510C reflex red dot sight comes next with a pretty good deal. In this sight, you are getting a multi reticle system that has three reticle options- the first two with either the 65 MOA ring or a 2 MOA dot and the third one with both the ring and dot.
The ring reticle is perfect when you are aiming close to your view with your KSG shotgun giving the clear view without blurring the image.
On the other hand, the 2 MOA dot reticle works great for any long range aiming because of its precise and accurate aiming point.
This open reflex sight will give you more window box for better visibility along with 10 daylight brightness settings and 2 night vision compatible options. These brightness settings are perfect to adjust with any lighting condition you will face during both day and night.
Shake Awake and Solar Failsafe are two unique features of this red dot sight. The Shake Awake function is good when you are on the go and want the sight to work instantly. Whereas, the Solar Failsafe option will save you during critical moments when the battery dies.
While on the topic of batteries, this Holosun sight uses a single CR2032 battery which is my favorite kind of lithium battery to use on any electronic device. You are getting 50,000 hours of continuous battery life at setting 6 which is actually good compared to the XPS2 sight.
Also, you are getting a QD mount that can achieve absolute co-witness with KSG iron sights. This red dot sight has an aluminum and titanium hood as its housing material that makes it strong enough to handle 1000G of vibration. Therefore, you can mount this sight on your KSG weapon without worrying about recoiling.
Is it possible to get lower ⅓ co-witness with this red dot sight?
Yes, you can add a Holosun HS510C Riser Mount with 1.63 inch height in order to get a lower ⅓ co-witness with other optical devices.
Does this sight have an RMR footprint?
No, this Holosun red dot sight comes with a Picatinny rail mount and does not have an RMR footprint.
What type of illumination does the reticle have?
The reticle of this red dot sight has a red illumination for better accessibility during nighttime.
4. Vortex Optics Strikefire II Red Dot Sight
Finally, we are getting to the good part. I have always been a fan of Vortex Optics sights because you pay for what you are getting which is actually a pretty good deal for me. For example, this Vortex Strikefire II sight will be a great companion to your KSG shotgun with a 4 MOA reticle.
This reticle is good in maintaining both close and mid range targeting. You can also stretch it a bit longer for targeting big games. Another thing I like about this red dot sight is that you get both green and red illuminated reticles to adjust with both day and night light.
I also like the fact that this is compatible with night vision devices. From the 11 brightness settings, the last 2 options are for night vision devices and the other 9 options are to use during daylight.
This Vortex red dot sight comes with a CR2 lithium battery that can give you continuous 80,000 hours of runtime on setting 6. I think this is the highest battery life we have seen so far. What I don’t like is that the power buttons are on the rear sight which can interfere with other devices like magnifiers.
The sight features a maximum of 100 MOA of both windage and elevation adjustments. And, it has a click value of 0.5 MOA which I prefer for most of the sights as it gives more precise dials.
Besides, the offset cantilever mount will give you more rail space when you attach the sight to your KSG shotgun. The mount also leaves the option to lower ⅓ co-witness with the iron sights.
In case you are wondering about the durability of this product, the Vortex Strikefire has nitrogen purging and O-rings seals along with high strength aluminum alloy housing. This 7.2 oz red dot sight is water resistant and strong enough to withstand recoil from a 12 gauge KSG firearm.
Does this have an etched reticle?
No, the Vortex StrikeFire II does not have an etched reticle but the SPARC sight has one.
Does this come with a lens cap?
Yes, you will find a flip up lens cover included in the package with the sight.
Is it possible to see infrared light with this sight?
No, this is a non-magnified sight that has a red/green illuminated reticle. Hence, you can’t use it to see infrared lights.
5. AT3 Magnified – 2 MOA Red Dot w/Laser Sight Kit
In case you are looking for a Kel Tec KSG laser, my next recommendation is just what you need. The AT3 tactical red dot sight is now combined with a 3X magnifier and a laser light.
This combo ensures that you are getting a 3 in 1 offer that is versatile enough to satisfy all your shooting purposes.
First, let’s talk about the LEOS red dot sight. This one has a 2 MOA dot reticle for precise and accurate aiming at a long distance. The sight also comes with a red laser for close distance targeting and a flip-to-side mount to attach to your KSG firearm.
The multi-coated and scratch resistant lens gives a crisp and clear picture quality along with 11 brightness settings to match with any low light condition. You will also get to experience both-eyes-open aiming because of its perfect height.
It also comes with a SureFire CR123A lithium battery that provides you with 50,00 hours of continuous runtime at the lowest brightness setting. This waterproof and shockproof sight is strong and reliable to be able to handle calibration from 12 gauge KSG.
Moving on to the Magnifier, it has a 3x magnification range which is comparatively good for long distances. You can easily install the RRDM magnifier using the Picatinny thumb screw mount. With this mount, the magnifier weighs about 11.6 ounces.
This is also 6061-T6 aluminum constructed which is as strong as the red dot sight.
Although the whole combo is a bit on the heavier side as the red dot also weighs about 8.3 ounces, you are actually getting a good deal in my opinion with 3 different devices combined in one.
How much eye relief is possible from this product?
In the case of the red dot sight, you will get unlimited eye relief and with the magnifier, you will get 2.4 inches of eye relief.
Can you turn the laser off while still using the red dot?
Yes, you can use only the red dot without turning on the laser by using the digital buttons.
What is the objective lens diameter of the magnifier?
The RRDM Magnifier has a 26mm objective lens with a field of view of 49 ft at 100 yds.
6. Vortex Optics SPARC Gen II Red Dot Sight
I have yet another product from Vortex Optics for your Kel Tec KSG firearm. This time it’s the SPARC AR Gen 2 Red Dot Sight. What you get from this sight is a 2 MOA dot reticle that is fast in acquiring close range targets but also can give you a precise dot for any long distance aiming.
The 22mm objective lens works in favor of transmitting more light into the sight for better picture quality. There are a total 12 brightness settings in the sight and the best part is the last 2 settings that are night vision compatible.
So, you really don’t need to worry about adjusting to different light conditions.
There is also a multi height mount which will allow you to mount this red dot sight on your KSG weapon at any height you desire. This works especially when you want to co-witness and you don’t need an extra riser mount for it.
The mount actually allows you to have both absolute and lower ⅓ co-witness with the other sights of a KSG shotgun. In the case of the lower ⅓ co-witness the optics center remains 40mm above the base surface and the factory sight comes with this height.
When it comes to the battery, this sight, unlike other red dot sights in this review, uses a AAA battery which provides you with 700 hours for the highest brightness level and 50,000 hours of runtime for mid setting. This is good considering the amount of time you are getting out of the battery even on the highest setting.
In addition, the Vortex SPARC sight has air to glass surface, anti-reflective multi-coated lens, and the interior is Nitrogen filled to prevent any fog or humidity. The whole sight is O-ring sealed to resist any liquid.
Besides, the highly durable hard-coat anodized finish gives the body a low-glare matte surface that helps to camouflage your position.
What is the difference between Gen I and Gen II?
The shape of the Gen II SPARC red dot sight is more streamlined and the sight has more improved dials and dial caps that make it easier to control the adjustments. The Gen II sight also comes with a longer battery life than the Gen I sight.
What kind of magnifier will be a better companion for the SPARC sight?
The Vortex Optics SPARC red dot sight works really well with the Vortex VMX-3T Magnifier. You can use it with the red dot sight.
What do you need in order to get an absolute co-witness?
In order to get the height for absolute co-witness with this red dot sight you will need to remove the 3mm base shim of the mount. That way the optic center will be 37mm above the base surface.
7. Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope
The last one on my list of the best sights for the KSG shotgun is the Bushnell TRS-25 Red Dot sight. This Kel Tec KSG scope comes with a 20mm objective lens which is not bad for attracting enough light in order to get better visibility of the targets.
The sight has a 3 MOA reticle that works for both close and mid range targeting. You will get 11 brightness settings in the sight to adjust with any lighting situation.
However, I don’t like the fact that this scope is not night vision compatible like the other red dot sights.
Similar to the Holosun sight, this red dot sight also comes with a CR2032 lithium battery. But you are getting about 5,000+ hours of battery life at a mid brightness setting which is pretty low compared to other sights that have almost 80,000 hours of work time.
You get an integrated weaver-style mount attached to the red dot sight, meaning you don’t need any other mounting base. You can directly attach the sight on the Picatinny rails of your KSG shotgun.
Coming to other adjustments, the sight has two turrets on the right and center part of it along with a battery compartment that also controls the brightness settings.
The structure is quite good and easily accessible, considering the fact that you don’t need to detach it to replace the batteries.
The turrets have a 1 MOA click value that controls the windage and elevation adjustments. The best part of the sight is that it only weighs about 4 ounces. This lightweight, compact sight is also durable and water resistant.
Does this sight come with a mount riser?
No, unfortunately, the sight does not offer any riser mount in the package. But you can get the UTG High Profile Riser Mount for this red dot scope. It works well for achieving co-witness.
Will this red dot scope be able to stand up to a 12 gauge KSG recoil?
Yes, the Bushnell TRS-25 Riflescope red dot sight has a highly durable and reliable housing design that is strong enough to withstand strong recoiling from 12 gauge KSG shotguns.
Does the reticle have an auto turn off feature?
No, this sight does not have a feature that automatically turns off the sight. You will need to do it manually.
These sights are the top best optics you will find in the market for your KSG shotgun. Of course, you will have other options as well. There are also good Kel-Tec KSG ghost ring sights in the market that are becoming popular gradually among the shooters. The XS Ghost Ring Sights will be a good choice for KSG shotguns in case you want to take a look.
Conclusion
To sum up, the above mentioned reflex sights are the top 7 best sights for KSG firearms. Although Kel Tec KSG iron sights will always hold an important position for shooting training, it is never bad to have a second option in hand for any sudden critical situation.
The buying guide section will work as a guideline for you to gather more information about the KSG sights which will help you jot down the things you need to look for in them. Plus, you will be able to find the perfect match for your Kel-Tec KSG shotgun from the review section. Choose the one that suits your needs the most.