The TruGlo LongBead Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight Made a Bold First Impression
The TruGlo LongBead Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight promises a simple yet effective upgrade to your shotgun’s aiming capabilities. This isn’t some fancy optic; it’s a straightforward bead replacement designed to enhance visibility in various lighting conditions. I was curious to see if such a small and inexpensive upgrade could genuinely improve my shotgun’s performance.
For years, I’ve been squinting down the barrel of my old 12-gauge, struggling to acquire a clear sight picture, especially in low light during early morning dove hunts. The standard bead sight was barely visible against dark backgrounds. I needed a solution that was both affordable and easy to install, without requiring any modifications to my shotgun.
Upon receiving the TruGlo LongBead, I immediately noticed its vibrant red fiber optic. It felt surprisingly sturdy for its size and price. The CNC-machined construction seemed well-made. Compared to similar bead sights, like those from HiViz, the TruGlo LongBead stood out due to its simplicity and low profile. I ultimately chose it because of its reputation for reliability and ease of installation.
My first impression was positive; the bright red fiber optic was significantly more visible than the stock bead. I was eager to see how it would perform in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting TruGlo LongBead Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the TruGlo LongBead Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight during a late-season pheasant hunt in South Dakota. The weather was overcast, creating challenging lighting conditions. The rolling hills and tall grasses made acquiring a clear sight picture even more difficult.
Despite the conditions, the TruGlo LongBead performed admirably. Its bright red fiber optic stood out clearly against the dull background, allowing me to quickly acquire my target. I found it significantly easier to track moving birds compared to the standard bead. After a few practice shots, I felt confident and comfortable with the new sight.
There were no initial issues; the installation was straightforward, and the sight held its position securely.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple hunting trips and range sessions, the TruGlo LongBead has held up well. There are no signs of wear and tear on the fiber optic or the base. It remains securely attached to my shotgun’s barrel.
Maintenance is minimal. I simply wipe it clean with a damp cloth after each use. Compared to my previous experiences with other aftermarket sights that required frequent adjustments, the TruGlo LongBead has been a pleasant surprise. It consistently delivers improved visibility and accuracy without any hassle.
Breaking Down the Features of TruGlo LongBead Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight
Specifications
- The TruGlo LongBead Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight features a 0.078″ diameter fiber optic. This provides a bright and easily visible aiming point.
- It has a 0.5″ fiber length, offering ample surface area for light gathering. This enhances visibility in low-light conditions.
- It is CNC-machined, ensuring precise dimensions and a secure fit. This contributes to the sight’s overall durability.
- The sight is red, a color known for its high visibility in various lighting situations. The color is critical for rapid target acquisition.
- The TruGlo LongBead is designed as a direct bead replacement, simplifying installation. It requires no gunsmithing or special tools.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the sight’s performance and usability. The fiber optic size and length determine brightness, the CNC machining ensures quality, and the bead replacement design makes it accessible to any shotgun owner.
Performance & Functionality
The TruGlo LongBead Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight excels at enhancing target acquisition in various lighting conditions. Its bright fiber optic makes it significantly easier to see the aiming point. This is particularly useful during dawn and dusk hunts, or in heavily wooded areas.
Its greatest strength is its simplicity and effectiveness. However, it is only a bead replacement, offering no adjustability. It does meet my expectations for an affordable and easy-to-install sight upgrade.
Design & Ergonomics
The TruGlo LongBead is made from durable materials, ensuring longevity. Its lightweight design adds negligible weight to the shotgun. The simple design makes it exceptionally user-friendly; there’s no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The TruGlo LongBead Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight is designed to last through rigorous use. It is easy to maintain and doesn’t require any special cleaning procedures.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TruGlo LongBead Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight does not come with any additional accessories, as it is a standalone bead replacement. However, its standard thread size makes it compatible with most shotgun barrels. There aren’t many customization options for a simple bead sight.
Pros and Cons of TruGlo LongBead Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight
Pros
- Significantly improved visibility compared to standard bead sights, especially in low-light conditions.
- Easy installation; no gunsmithing or special tools required.
- Affordable price makes it an accessible upgrade for any shotgun owner.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Simple and effective design provides a clear aiming point without any unnecessary complexity.
Cons
- No adjustability; the sight is fixed in place.
- Limited to bead sight functionality; does not offer the precision of a red dot or other optics.
Who Should Buy TruGlo LongBead Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight?
The TruGlo LongBead Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight is perfect for hunters who need improved visibility in low-light conditions. It is also ideal for recreational shooters looking for an affordable and easy way to upgrade their shotgun. Anyone who struggles to see their shotgun’s bead sight will benefit from this product.
This product might not be suitable for competitive shooters who require more precise aiming solutions. Those seeking adjustable sights or advanced optics should explore other options.
A must-have accessory would be a thread locker, such as Loctite, to ensure the sight remains securely in place.
Conclusion on TruGlo LongBead Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight
The TruGlo LongBead Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight is a simple, effective, and affordable upgrade for any shotgun. Its improved visibility enhances target acquisition, especially in low-light situations. The price is definitely justified, given the significant improvement in aiming performance.
I would absolutely recommend the TruGlo LongBead. It’s a small investment that can make a big difference in your shooting experience. If you’re tired of struggling to see your bead sight, give the TruGlo LongBead Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight a try – you won’t be disappointed.