Short answer: MOA is the size of the dot. A 2 MOA dot covers about 2 inches at 100 yards, a 3 MOA dot about 3 inches. Smaller dots aim finer, larger dots are quicker to find.
2 MOA
A fine dot for longer shots and bench work. It covers little of the target.
3 MOA
A common all-round size for carbines. A good balance of speed and precision.
6 MOA and larger
Easier to see in a hurry and on pistols and shotguns, but they cover more of the target at range.
Match the use
Think about how far you will shoot and how fast you need to aim. Our red dot sights guide and rifle optics guide cover mounting and battery life.
What MOA means for a dot
MOA stands for minute of angle. A dot’s size in MOA tells you how much of the target it covers: about 1 inch per 100 yards for every 1 MOA. A 2 MOA dot covers about 2 inches at 100 yards, and a 3 MOA dot about 3 inches.
How to choose
- 2 MOA: a smaller dot that is more precise at longer distance and on small targets.
- 3 MOA: a good middle size that is quick to find and works for most uses.
- 4 to 6 MOA: a larger dot that is very fast at close range, such as on shotguns and short rifles.
Think about your eyes
Some people with astigmatism see the dot as a blur or star. A smaller dot can help, as can a different optic. Try a few before you buy if you can.
See our red dot guide for more on choosing.
Keep building
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