The TruGlo Glo-Dot Xtreme Universal Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight Made a Bold First Impression
I’ve spent years squinting down the barrels of various shotguns, struggling to acquire a quick, clear sight picture, especially in less-than-ideal lighting. The constant quest for better visibility and faster target acquisition led me to the TruGlo Glo-Dot Xtreme Universal Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight. This little gadget from TruGlo promised to enhance my shotgun’s sighting capabilities with its fiber optic technology and universal fit.
The TruGlo Glo-Dot Xtreme aims to solve the problem of poor visibility in various lighting conditions, allowing for faster and more accurate shooting. My aging eyes needed the help, and I was excited to see if this sight lived up to the hype.
Unboxing the TruGlo Glo-Dot Xtreme, I was immediately struck by its compact size and the vibrant colors of the interchangeable fiber optic tubes. The inclusion of multiple mounting bases and a carrying case was a pleasant surprise, hinting at the product’s well-thought-out design and user-friendliness. I have previously used traditional bead sights, but the Glo-Dot’s promise of improved visibility in low light made it stand out.
I considered other options, such as the HiViz CompSight and the Williams Gun Sight FireSight, but the TruGlo Glo-Dot Xtreme’s magnetic installation and lower price point ultimately swayed my decision. Its simplicity seemed like a perfect fit for my needs, promising quick installation and enhanced visibility without breaking the bank. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping this would be the upgrade I’d been searching for.
Real-World Testing: Putting TruGlo Glo-Dot Xtreme Universal Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the TruGlo Glo-Dot Xtreme Universal Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight was at my local shooting range on a partly cloudy afternoon. I installed the sight on my trusty 12-gauge using one of the provided mounting bases, which proved surprisingly straightforward. The magnetic installation really did simplify the process.
The sight performed admirably under the fluctuating light conditions. The fiber optic glow provided a clear and easily visible aiming point, significantly improving my target acquisition speed compared to the standard bead sight. There were no initial issues; it attached securely and didn’t shift during the session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, including a dove hunting trip and a few more range sessions, the TruGlo Glo-Dot Xtreme continues to impress. The sight has held up well, showing no signs of significant wear and tear despite the recoil from hundreds of shotgun rounds. The sight is still very bright, even when shooting in the early mornings before sunrise.
Cleaning is a breeze, requiring only a quick wipe with a clean cloth. The durability and consistent performance have far exceeded my initial expectations, outperforming other adhesive-based sights I’ve tried in the past. I do check that the sight is still secure before each use but it has not become loose yet.
Breaking Down the Features of TruGlo Glo-Dot Xtreme Universal Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight
Specifications
The TruGlo Glo-Dot Xtreme Universal Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight is designed to fit all ventilated rib shotguns, offering universal compatibility. Its extremely low profile minimizes interference with the shooter’s field of view. The kit includes multiple interchangeable fibers in different colors, allowing customization for varying lighting conditions.
Four different sized mounting bases are provided to ensure a secure fit on various rib sizes. The fiber diameter is .060”, offering a bright and easily visible aiming point. The endorsement by Patrick Flanigan, a Professional Exhibition Shooter and World Record Holder, adds credibility to the product’s performance claims.
Performance & Functionality
The TruGlo Glo-Dot Xtreme excels at improving target acquisition speed, particularly in low-light scenarios. Its bright fiber optic provides a clear aiming point that’s far superior to traditional bead sights. While the sight does enhance accuracy, it’s more about improving the speed and consistency of your shot.
The main strength lies in its visibility and ease of installation, but the relatively small size of the fiber optic could be a limitation for shooters with significant vision impairments. It meets expectations by providing a simple and effective solution for enhancing shotgun sighting capabilities, but it does not make up for poor shooting technique.
Design & Ergonomics
The TruGlo Glo-Dot Xtreme’s design is simple yet effective, focusing on functionality and ease of use. The low profile keeps it out of the way, while the magnetic base ensures secure attachment without permanent modifications. The weight is negligible, adding no noticeable heft to the shotgun.
The sight requires no special tools or skills to install, making it incredibly user-friendly. There’s virtually no learning curve; you simply attach it to your shotgun rib and start shooting.
Durability & Maintenance
The TruGlo Glo-Dot Xtreme is built to withstand the rigors of regular shotgun use. The durable materials and secure mounting system ensure it stays in place even under heavy recoil. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris.
The sight is designed for long-term use, and its simple construction minimizes the risk of mechanical failure. I expect this sight to last for several seasons, assuming it is stored properly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TruGlo Glo-Dot Xtreme includes multiple interchangeable fiber optic tubes, allowing users to customize the sight color to suit their preferences and lighting conditions. It also comes with four different sized mounting bases to ensure compatibility with various shotgun rib sizes. There are no other readily available accessories for this sight; it’s designed to be a standalone upgrade.
While it’s not compatible with third-party accessories in the traditional sense, the universal design allows it to be used on a wide variety of shotguns from different manufacturers. This is an all-in-one kit, designed to be a complete solution.
Pros and Cons of TruGlo Glo-Dot Xtreme Universal Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight
Pros
- Significantly enhances visibility in low-light conditions. This allows for faster and more accurate target acquisition.
- Universal fit ensures compatibility with virtually all ventilated rib shotguns. The four included mounting bases provide a secure and customized fit.
- Easy magnetic installation requires no gunsmithing or permanent modifications. This makes it a hassle-free upgrade for any shotgun owner.
- Multiple interchangeable fiber optic colors allow customization for different lighting conditions and personal preferences. The ability to swap colors is a simple but effective feature.
- Extremely affordable price point makes it accessible to shooters of all budgets. It is a cost-effective way to improve your shotgun’s sighting capabilities.
Cons
- The .060″ fiber diameter may be too small for shooters with significant vision impairments. A larger diameter option would improve visibility for some users.
- Magnetic attachment, while convenient, may not be as secure as a more permanent mounting system. Regular checks are recommended to ensure it remains firmly in place.
Who Should Buy TruGlo Glo-Dot Xtreme Universal Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight?
The TruGlo Glo-Dot Xtreme Universal Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight is perfect for hunters and recreational shooters looking to improve their shotgun’s sighting capabilities in low-light conditions. It’s an excellent upgrade for anyone who struggles to see their front bead sight clearly, particularly during dawn and dusk hunting scenarios. It is also great for trap and skeet shooters.
Those who require an extremely robust and permanently mounted sight, or those with severe visual impairments, might want to consider other options. This is an entry-level sight intended for enhancing existing capabilities. Must-have modifications are not required, but a habit of checking the magnetic base before each use is highly recommended for peace of mind.
Conclusion on TruGlo Glo-Dot Xtreme Universal Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight
The TruGlo Glo-Dot Xtreme Universal Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight is a simple, effective, and affordable upgrade that delivers on its promises. The enhanced visibility and ease of installation make it a worthwhile addition to any shotgun. At a price of $19.49, the value proposition is undeniable.
I wholeheartedly recommend the TruGlo Glo-Dot Xtreme to any shotgun owner looking for a quick and easy way to improve their sighting capabilities without breaking the bank. Give your shotgun a visibility boost; you won’t regret it!