I'm thinking about turning my Marlin 1894 into a brush gun/improvised tactical rifle. I'm thinking an XS scout mount topped with some kind ofred dot would be kind of cool, not to mention quick.

Like everything out there, the prices range from like $20 to several hundred. What are some decent, moderately priced brands to consider?

Get one with variable dot size and a diameter of at least 30 mm.

Get some fiber otpic sights. They will be cheaper, lighter and possibly more rugged. Plus the batteries will not go dead when you need them.

Don't get me wrong, I like red dots and have played with them. I just think they are sort of like laser sights. They work great for what they were made for, shooting people in the dark.

They work pretty well if you have bad eyes as well.

Paul

I've only used military style red dot sights, the ACOG, on an M16 and a rocket launcher.

I think they'd be excellent for hunting, as long as your shots aren't too long range.

I have a TAsco Reddot on a 1895M .450 Marlin with a Scout Mount. It is quick pointing and deadly though it is a short range application. My longest shot on a deer has been 117 yds. The version of the Reddot I have has the adjustable dotand brightness. It is a great solution for it's purpose.

I have used Bushnell red dot that cost around $90 on a Marlin 30-30 and 444. They work great.

I had a old sidelock muzzleloader that I put a red dot on because of clearance issues with a regular scope. i had a cheep BSA model that i just slapped on to see how it would do and suprisingly i never took it off. I love the thing for getting on target quickly...very unconventional for a muzzle loader but I love it.