Let’s be honest, red dot sights are great for quick acquisition and close-quarters shooting. But when you want a bit more magnification without the bulk of a traditional magnified optic, the Primary Arms SLx MicroPrism steps up to the plate. I’ve been using this little guy for a while now, and I’m here to share my thoughts on its best features, some drawbacks, and what it’s like to use in the field.
Tiny Footprint, Big Performance
The first thing that struck me about the SLx MicroPrism was its size. It’s incredibly compact and lightweight, making it a great choice for AR builds where weight and balance are a priority. It shoulders comfortably and doesn’t feel cumbersome when maneuvering. Despite its diminutive stature, the glass is excellent, offering a clear and crisp sight picture.
ACSS Reticle Does the Job
Primary Arms offers the SLx MicroPrism with a couple of different reticle options, but I opted for the ACSS Cyclops Gen 2. This etched reticle features a horseshoe for close-up engagements and a tapered post for precise aiming at distance. The horseshoe itself can be used like a giant red dot for fast shooting, and the etched design ensures visibility even when the illumination is off. Speaking of illumination, the red dot is adjustable with multiple brightness settings, making it usable in various lighting conditions.
Built Like a Tank
Primary Arms has a reputation for building tough optics, and the SLx MicroPrism is no exception. It feels incredibly solid in hand, and the construction inspires confidence. I’ve taken it through bumps, bangs, and even some light rain, and it has performed flawlessly.
A Few Nitpicks
While I’m a big fan of the SLx MicroPrism overall, there are a couple of things worth mentioning. First, the illumination knob is located on the left side of the optic. While this might not be a dealbreaker for everyone, I found myself wishing it was on the right for easier access. Additionally, the included mount offers multiple height options, which is great for versatility, but some users might prefer a more streamlined, lower profile mount.
Real World Use: A Winning Combination
I’ve used the SLx MicroPrism on a variety of AR builds, from lightweight carbines to heavier setups. It excels at mid-range shooting, where the 1x to 3x or 5x magnification (depending on the model you choose) allows for precise shot placement. The etched reticle ensures a clear sight picture even if the battery dies, a crucial feature for any serious shooter.
What Others Are Saying
Online reviews for the SLx MicroPrism are generally positive. Users praise its compact size, excellent glass quality, and the functionality of the ACSS reticle. Some common minor gripes include the location of the illumination knob and the number of mounting options (some users felt some options were unnecessary).
Alternatives to Consider
If you’re looking for a similar optic but prefer a true red dot sight, Primary Arms offers the SLx MD-25 Micro Red Dot. It shares the same compact footprint and rugged build quality but offers a 2.5 MOA red dot for close-quarters engagements. Another option to consider is the Eotech holographic weapon sight. Eotech sights are known for their large viewing area and clear reticles, but they tend to be bulkier and more expensive than the SLx MicroPrism.
The Final Verdict
The Primary Arms SLx MicroPrism is a fantastic option for shooters who want a compact, lightweight optic with magnification capabilities. It offers excellent glass quality, a durable build, and the ACSS reticle provides both close-up and long-range functionality. While a couple of minor design choices could be improved, the overall performance and value proposition make the SLx MicroPrism a winner in my book. It’s a versatile optic that feels at home on a variety of AR builds, making it a great choice for both recreational shooters and those who take their training seriously.