Ghost ring vs Big Dot

[Jamie]

I'm looking to upgrade sights on my 870, 18" barrel. Trying to decide between putting a XS Big Dot on the bead or going to ghost ring sights, (XS or Scattergun Tech). I think the Big Dot would be an improvement over the bead, faster, easier to pick up plus the tritium for low light 'work'. Ghost ring sights obviously, would be better for slugs at distance. I'm ASSuming ghost rings are slower but I read an article the other day comparing ghost rings to a red dot, surprisingly, the ghost rings were faster on target! My 870 is, (at the moment), my main go to gun for SD, (I do have an AR). I believe I'd probably shoot more buck than slugs in a SD situation, don't see too many situations around my house where I'd be shooting more than 50 yards. What do ya'll think?

[Synchronizor]

For defense, I'd say go with the big dot. Fast and more than accurate enough for close range work with buckshot. Plus, you won't need to drill any holes on your receiver, which might be a bummer if want to try something else in the future. A front bead isn't half-bad with slugs, either, in my experience. Practice to get a consistent cheek weld, and use the top of the receiver as a simple rear sight. Headshots at 50+ yards may be a stretch, but I can easily get Foster-style slugs to group on a human silhouette by aiming at CoM.

Though outside buckshot distances, your AR would probably be a much better option due to its accuracy, capacity, and lower recoil.

[Jamie]

http://rifleshooter.com/2013/08/red-dot ... a-shotgun/
Here is quite an interesting article comparing red dot vs ghost ring sights on a fighting shotgun.