Eotech or Red Dot Sights

October 29, 2015

Question: Can I legally hunt deer in California with my Eotech Holographic sight on a rifle? Since it has a lighted dot but does not project a visible light outside of the viewfinder, I assume it would be legal but want to be sure. (Ken M., Redding)

Answer: As long as the sight does not emit a directional beam of light, then it may be used (Fish and Game Code, section 2005). The problem comes when a light is emitted out away from the rifle or bow sight to give the hunter what some would consider an unfair advantage over the game. A light might also substantially contribute to hunting before or after legal hours.

Hojoman,  I would recommend the red dot m68 CCO.  I served some time in the military and used them both.  The m68 emits light onto an etched glass dot, whereas an Eotech projects the image on the glass. This for me meant that the m68 was much more resistant to being jarred off zero and you could aquire reticle with your eye in the same spot every time. Additionally, your optic will not have a large obscuring reticle blocking your field of view like the Eotech does.  Good luck