Astigmatism & Illuminated Optics The Reticle or Your Eye?

Published on March 29, 2020
Duration: 11:44

This video provides practical advice for firearm owners experiencing astigmatism when using optical sights. It offers a simple camera test to differentiate between an astigmatism issue and a faulty reticle. The instructor, based on personal experience, discusses how etched and illuminated reticles, particularly in prism scopes and some magnified optics, tend to offer clearer sight pictures for those with astigmatism compared to standard red dots. The video also touches on reticle options within red dots, suggesting circle-dot configurations may be more beneficial.

Quick Summary

To determine if your firearm optic reticle is blurry due to astigmatism or a faulty sight, use your smartphone camera. Place the camera between your eye and the optic; if the reticle is clear on the screen but blurry to your eye, it's likely astigmatism. For astigmatism, etched and illuminated reticles in prism scopes or circle-dot options in red dots often provide the clearest sight picture.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Astigmatism and Optics
  2. 00:19How to Test for Astigmatism vs. Bad Reticle
  3. 01:04Using a Camera to Check Reticle Clarity
  4. 02:10Optics for Astigmatism: Prism Scopes
  5. 03:25Prism Scope Reticle Explanation
  6. 04:50Magnified Optics with Illuminated Reticles
  7. 06:07Red Dot Sights and Astigmatism Issues
  8. 07:51Red Dot Reticle Options (Circle Dot)
  9. 09:04Holographic Sights and Astigmatism
  10. 10:08Trying Optics with Friends
  11. 10:32Pistol Optics and Astigmatism
  12. 10:51Summary: Camera Test and Optic Types

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell if my firearm optic reticle is blurry because of astigmatism or a faulty sight?

A simple test involves using your smartphone camera. Place the camera lens between your eye and the optic's reticle. If the reticle appears clear on the camera's screen but blurry to your naked eye, the issue is likely your astigmatism, not the optic itself.

What type of firearm optics are best for people with astigmatism?

Based on personal experience, etched and illuminated reticles, commonly found in prism scopes and some magnified optics, tend to offer a clearer sight picture for those with astigmatism. Circle-dot reticles in red dots can also be more beneficial than single dots.

Do red dot sights work well for shooters with astigmatism?

Red dot sights can be challenging for those with astigmatism, as the LED projection can cause flaring or a starburst effect. However, minor flaring usually doesn't impact aiming significantly. Some red dots with circle-dot reticles may offer a clearer aiming point.

Are prism scopes better than red dots for astigmatism?

While prism scopes can offer a clearer image, the primary benefit for individuals with astigmatism often comes from the etched, illuminated reticle they typically feature, rather than the prism technology itself. This etched design provides a more defined aiming point.

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