TruGlo Magnum Gobble Dot Xtreme Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight Review

First Thoughts on the TruGlo Magnum Gobble Dot Xtreme Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight

The TruGlo Magnum Gobble Dot Xtreme Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight promises enhanced visibility for turkey hunters, a crucial element for success in the dense woods. This is achieved through its fiber optic design, providing bright aiming points even in low-light conditions. The TruGlo brand is known for affordability and practical design, making this sight an attractive option for budget-conscious hunters looking to upgrade their shotguns.

My aging eyes are not what they used to be, particularly in the dim light of dawn during turkey season. I was looking for a simple, effective sight upgrade that wouldn’t break the bank but would provide a clearer aiming point than the factory bead. The challenge was finding a reliable, easily installed sight that could withstand the rigors of the hunt without requiring a gunsmith.

Upon unboxing, the TruGlo Magnum Gobble Dot Xtreme Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight appeared surprisingly robust for its price point. The CNC machined steel construction felt solid in hand, and the fiber optic elements were noticeably bright. The snap-on design looked simple enough, a welcome change from complicated, screw-dependent sights.

I considered the HiViz Spark II and the Williams Gun Sight FireSight set before settling on the TruGlo offering. I chose it based on its straightforward design, positive user feedback regarding brightness, and the endorsement from the National Wild Turkey Federation. The price point was also a significant factor; it offered a compelling value proposition.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The TruGlo Magnum Gobble Dot Xtreme Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight seemed like a practical solution, but I needed to see how it performed under real-world conditions. The ease of installation and noticeable brightness of the fiber optics were encouraging first impressions.

Real-World Testing: Putting TruGlo Magnum Gobble Dot Xtreme Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test occurred during a pre-season scouting trip, followed by opening day of turkey season in the Appalachian foothills. I used it on my trusty Mossberg 500, in conditions ranging from overcast mornings to bright midday sun. The environment presented varied challenges, including low-light scenarios in thick timber and the need for quick target acquisition.

The TruGlo Magnum Gobble Dot Xtreme Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight performed admirably in most conditions. The fiber optic sights were particularly effective in low light, offering a clear and bright aiming point when the factory bead sight would have been nearly invisible. However, in extremely bright sunlight, the fiber optics could appear washed out, requiring a slightly more conscious effort to align.

Installation was surprisingly straightforward, living up to the promise of a “snap-on” system. It took mere seconds to attach the front and rear sights to the vent rib of my Mossberg 500. There was a snug and secure fit, requiring no tools or adjustments.

The only initial issue was a slight looseness of the rear sight on my specific vent rib. It was remedied by a small piece of electrical tape shimming the mount, a quick and simple fix.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full turkey season, the TruGlo Magnum Gobble Dot Xtreme Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight has proven to be a reliable addition to my shotgun. There were no signs of significant wear and tear, despite exposure to rain, mud, and the occasional accidental bump against trees. The fiber optic elements remained bright and securely in place.

Durability has been impressive considering the price. The CNC machined steel construction has held up well, with no signs of rust or corrosion. The snap-on design, while initially concerning regarding stability, has proven to be surprisingly secure.

Maintenance has been minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft cloth to remove dirt and debris. The fiber optic elements can be cleaned with a cotton swab and a mild cleaning solution if necessary. The sight has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and ease of maintenance.

Compared to my previous setup using only the factory bead sight, the TruGlo Magnum Gobble Dot Xtreme Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight is a significant improvement. It offers a much clearer and more visible aiming point, especially in low-light conditions. The confidence it inspires has translated into more successful hunts.

Breaking Down the Features of TruGlo Magnum Gobble Dot Xtreme Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight

Specifications

The TruGlo Magnum Gobble Dot Xtreme Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight boasts several key specifications tailored for turkey hunting. The front diameter is .060″, while the rear diameter is .035″, designed for a precise sight picture. The base is designed for a vent rib .37″, typically found on Mossberg shotguns.

The sight is constructed from CNC machined steel, providing durability and resistance to recoil. It’s designed as a front/rear set, offering a complete sighting solution. The color is black, ensuring minimal reflection and blending with most shotgun finishes.

These specifications directly impact performance by improving visibility and ease of aiming. The different fiber optic diameters help create a clear sight picture, and the steel construction ensures the sight can withstand the rigors of hunting. The vent rib base ensures a secure fit on compatible shotguns.

Performance & Functionality

The TruGlo Magnum Gobble Dot Xtreme Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight excels at providing a bright and easily visible aiming point, significantly improving target acquisition speed. This is crucial in turkey hunting, where quick and accurate shots are often necessary. The sight allows for more precise aiming, leading to improved accuracy.

The primary strength lies in its low-light performance. The fiber optic sights gather ambient light, creating a bright aiming point even in the dim conditions of early morning or dense woods. A potential weakness is the washout effect in extremely bright sunlight, although this is a minor issue.

The sight meets and often exceeds expectations for a product in its price range. It delivers on its promise of improved visibility and ease of use, contributing to a more enjoyable and successful hunting experience. It provides a solid upgrade over basic factory sights.

Design & Ergonomics

The TruGlo Magnum Gobble Dot Xtreme Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight features a simple and functional design. The CNC machined steel construction feels solid and well-made, contributing to overall durability. The sight is lightweight and does not significantly alter the balance or handling of the shotgun.

The snap-on installation is incredibly user-friendly, requiring no specialized tools or gunsmithing skills. There is virtually no learning curve; it’s as simple as attaching the sights and heading to the woods. The ease of installation and simple design are major selling points.

Durability & Maintenance

The CNC machined steel construction suggests good longevity, resisting rust and corrosion. After a full season of use, the sight shows no signs of significant wear and tear. The fiber optic elements are securely mounted and appear resistant to damage.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth is generally sufficient to keep the sight in good working condition. The TruGlo Magnum Gobble Dot Xtreme Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight is designed for long-term reliability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The TruGlo Magnum Gobble Dot Xtreme Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight is primarily a standalone sighting system and does not offer extensive customization options. It is designed to work with the existing vent rib of compatible shotguns, minimizing the need for additional accessories. There are no included accessories beyond the front and rear sight components.

The sight is not directly compatible with traditional optics such as scopes or red dot sights. However, it can be used in conjunction with aftermarket choke tubes designed for specific shooting scenarios. Its simplicity and ease of installation are its primary strengths.

Pros and Cons of TruGlo Magnum Gobble Dot Xtreme Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight