Primary Arms

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Primary Arms AutoLIve Battery cap

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  We have all had that feeling of forgetting to turn off an optic. Then, the next time you go to the range, or worse, the field, and go to turn on the optic, you see no illumination. Advances in optics allow auto on/off capabilities. But maybe you don’t want to have to buy a whole new optic. Primary Arms has you covered. They have introduced their Autolive battery cap! The Autolive battery cap turns your optic into one that has auto on/off capabilities.

  Primary Arms has made optics that turn the reticle on and off automatically for some time. The Autolive battery cap does the same thing for optics that don’t have this feature. Autolive works by sensing when the optic moves, or hasn’t moved. When Autolive senses movement, it will automatically turn the reticle on. It is so quick, that you will never notice that the reticle was off. After the 2-3 minute mark of no movement, the Autolive function will turn off the power to the reticle. Then, when you move it again, the cycle starts over.

  So what is the Primary Arms Autolive battery cap? It is a battery cap that has built in electronics for the Autolive function explained above. Granted, it is larger than the original battery cap that it replaces, but not by much. I’d say it’s only about ½” taller. Or, it only adds ½” in height to where the battery is installed. A pretty small price to pay for Autolive functionality.

  Installation of the Autolive battery cap is simple. Just unscrew your old battery cap. Remove the 2032 battery. Screw in the Autolive battery cap until snug/tight. Now, the Autolive battery cap has a lock ring on it. Screw the locking ring down and tighten with the supplied tightening tool. Install your 2032 battery into the Autolive cap. Then screw on your original battery cap to the top of the Autolive one. Now adjust your reticle brightness to your desired level. You are now ready to save your battery life and have the illumination function automatically turn on when you move the firearm. 

  I ended up trying the Autolive battery cap on two different optics. The first one was a Lucid Optics L7. Primary Arms doesn’t list the L7 as an optic that the Autolive battery cap works on, but it did. As long as the thread pitch is correct, the Autolive cap should work. As expected, the L7 now had instant on and off reticle illumination. I then transferred the Autolive cap over to a Primary Arms SLx with their NOVA reticle, since this is on a gun I use more. The Autolive cap performed great on it also. The main drawback I see with the Autlive battery cap is that it only works on selected models of optics. These optics are, as listed on the Primary Arms website:

Primary Arms SLx 1-8×24 FFP & SFP

Primary Arms SLx 1-10×28 SFP

Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24 SFP Gen III and IV

Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24 FFP

Sig Optics Tango6® MSR 1-6x24mm

Vortex Strike Eagle® 1-6 SFP

Vortex Strike Eagle® 1-8 SFP

  So if you want to upgrade that optic to auto on/off, the Primary Arms Autolive battery cap just might be the thing. It will save you battery life and hopefully you won’t have that dead battery next time you head into the field. It’s a great option for that beside the bed gun, especially since you know the reticle will turn on when you grab it. If this is something you are interested in, head over to Primary Arms and check out the Autolive battery cap. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Turns illuminated optics on with motion

Target Market:

People who forget to turn off their optics or want better battery life

Features, Benefits, and Specifications of this product:

  • Integrated AutoLive motion sensing technology

  • Instantly turns on optic illumination when you pick up your firearm

  • Low profile design

  • Extends battery life

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

None

What others are saying?:

5 out 5 stars from Connor M. at Primaryarms.com

PERFECTION

Does exactly as advertised, and the install was a breeze. Set my rifle with the Gen 4 Nova 1-6 on a table, illumination was on, left it for 5 minutes and came back it was off and then with a poke it came back to life again. Just find your favorite brightness setting (i've found 8 works best for both darker rooms and full day light bright) set it and forget. This and the Nova are a hell of a combo to beat for $400.

Link to other reviews:

Tiberious Gib YouTube    

Price point:

MSRP = $49.99

Retail = Same

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Massively increases battery life on optics without this feature

  • Small - adds very little size

  • Works on a variety of LPVO’s

Cons:

  • Price

Score: 7.50 Good

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Primary Arms SLx 3-18x50 Gen 2

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  Quality optics have become affordable for most shooters in the last few years. One no longer needs to spend $1000, or more, to get a clear quality optic. Primary Arms has been aiding us shooters with these types of optics. Their new Gen 2 SLx 3-18x50 FFP is one of those. This optic has features that should make it cost twice the price. 

  The Gen 2 SLx 3-18 is packed with features. Coming in first is its First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle. Yes, this $500 optic has a FFP Christmas tree style reticle. So when you zoom in, all the reticle’s MIL marks stay the same. This allows you to hold over for bullet drops, or wind, at any reticle setting. This particular optic uses Primary Arms’ ACSS Athena BPR Mil reticle. I won’t go much into the reticle’s design as it uses MIL’s in a very useful pattern. But, the reticle is illuminated to help one see better in low light. It’s pretty bright for this size of optic. This ACSS reticle also uses a small center chevron, think triangle, for aiming. Most optics like this just use a small dot. The top point of the chevron can be used for very precise shots, more so than if one were to use an optic with a small center dot. The other nice aspect to this reticle is its built in ranging ladder. The ladder is in the upper right hand portion of the optic. This puts it out in the part of the reticle that is seldom used. I really like how Primary Arms designed the ACSS Athena reticle. It is easy to use, even for someone like me that is used to using a MOA reticle. I even mentioned to Primary Arms that they were starting to convert me to MIL reticle scopes. Part of that comment was due to the SLx 3-18x50.

At 18x, Tower Light is approximately 350 yds away. Light is also 15” wide for ranging purposes.

  Since I was talking about the reticle, let's go into the optics themselves. This SLx 3-18 gen 2 is exceptionally clear. This is why I say it far exceeds its class. I had zero problems with the clarity, even at its full magnification of 18x. I could easily make out 17 HMR holes in targets at 100yds. The crispness of the glass is also really good, though I did find it to drop off a little at longer ranges and at higher magnification, but it never caused any problems. I did find the parallax adjustment to be a little touchy. At least when focusing the parallax adjustment on targets between 200-400 yards. They were the hardest to get focused. Other ranges didn’t seem to be as touchy, even the lower ranges like 15-100 yds. I will give the SLx credit for having a parallax adjustment that goes from 10 yds to infinity. Other than those minor issues, the SLx 3-18 gen 2 has great glass for the money.

  The function of the SLx 3-18x50 gen 2 has some outstanding features also. My absolute favorite is that this optic has a true zero stop on the elevation turret. Once you find out where your zero is, just set the stop and you will never have problems finding your zero again. No matter where you adjust to, just turn the back down until it stops, you are now at your zero setting. The turrets have been upgraded over the first gen SLx 3-18. They are larger so you can get a better feel on them. This also makes them easier to turn. These turrets also have fairly good clicks to them. You can feel and hear them. The elevation turret is a target style and not capped. The windage turret is capped….unless you want it to be a target style turret. Primary Arms includes a target style turret that you can replace the capped one with. So essentially you have the best of both worlds. I typically don’t dial for windage, so I left the turret in the capped version. One other feature, that Primary Arms added to the SLx 3-18 gen 2, is their changeable throw lever for the magnification ring. Instead of being stuck with whatever the optic company gives you, Primary Arms gives you options. The throw lever, that comes installed, is fairly tall and makes it easy to adjust magnification. But, if it’s not your thing, just take it off, or get one of the other throw lever options.

  I installed the SLx 3-18x50 gen 2 on my semi-precision 243. Being that the 243 is not your standard 1000 yd cartridge, more of a 800 yd one, I thought this magnification range would be a perfect fit for it. All I can say is that it worked out great on this rifle. Don’t get me wrong, the SLx 3-18 gen 2 is perfectly capable of going out to 1000 yds clearly. My eyes are old and like a little more magnification when reaching out farther. A while back, 10x was adequate for 1000 yds. I view a 3-18 as more of a mid to long range optic. If I was looking for something in the longer range category, I’d look into the Primary Arms 5-25x56.

  Primary Arms did a great job designing the SLx 3-18x50 FFP gen 2. Basically it reaches above its pay grade and into the realm of optics that cost twice its price. It has good optical clarity and a top notch reticle. The SLx 3-18 gen 2 also functions extremely well with those large turrets and zero stop. It is a little on the heavy side, but for $500 you can’t go wrong. So if you think you might need a top notch, value priced optic, in the 3-18 power range, do yourself a favor and check out the SLx 3-18x50 gen 2 from Primary Arms

Firearms Insider Reviews - Key Points

Claim to Fame:

First Focal Plane mid-power optic with a great feature set

Target Market:

Precision shooters and hunters

Features & Benefits of this product:

  • CR2032 3V Lithium Battery

  • Eye Relief: Low: 3.5in. / High: 3.9in.

  • Field View at 100: Low: 35ft. / High: 5.9ft.

  • First Focal Plane

  • Red Illuminated Reticle with 6 brightness levels

  • Length: 13.6 in.

  • Magnification: 3X - 18X

  • ACSS ATHENA BPR MIL Reticle

  • 0.1 Mil Click Adjustment Value

  • Total Elevation Adjustment: 100 MOA

  • Total Windage Adjustment: 64 MOA

  • 30mm Tube Diameter

  • Weight: 32.04 oz

  • Zero Stop Elevation Adjustment

  • Lifetime Warranty

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Apollo 6.5cr/224v and 308/6.5g reticles     

What others are saying?:

Nothing found as of publishing

Link to other reviews:

Hunt Fish Shoot on YouTube  

Price point:

MSRP = $499.99

Retail = Same

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Clear Glass

  • Price

  • Zero Stop

  • Larger Turrets

  • Extra Dial Turret for Windage

Cons:

  • Parallax adjustment is touchy

  • Heavy

Score:  8.00 Great

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Primary Arms SLx 3x MicroPrism

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  Many years back, fixed power optics were very common. They tended to be larger in size when compared to say, a standard tube style red dot. Fixed power optics have come back around thanks to the small magnified prism optics like the Primary Arms SLx 3x MicroPrism. The SLx is so much lighter and smaller than the fixed power scopes of the old days. The SLx 3 power prism also gives you plenty of new benefits that just weren’t available back in the day. So let’s welcome in the small, fixed 3 power optic of the future. Now offered in FDE to match all your tactical needs.

  Primary Arms set the bar high when they released the 1x MicroPrism, then they raised it with 3x and 5x models. They sent me out the 3x version in FDE. Fixed power optics have their place in the shooting world. With the SLx 3x you get a super small package size plus some magnification to see targets at mid range distances. Since the magnification isn't super overpowering, you can still use this optic up close. It also doesn’t weigh much, tipping the scales at just about 8 ounces. For being in Primary Arms’ SLx line of products, you get an exceptional value with super clear glass. 

  One of the great aspects of the Primary Arms 3x MicroPrism is its reticle. Primary Arms uses one of their ACSS reticles, or “Advanced Combined Sighting System”, in the SLx 3x. In particular, this is the Raptor ACSS reticle. The ACSS Raptor gives you ranging, bullet drop compensation, wind holds, and moving target leads, all in a simple to use red colored reticle. The reticle has an illuminated horseshoe around a center chevron (think triangle instead of dot). The ranging, wind and bullet drop then take up the reticle below the center chevron, these compensations are not illuminated. The illuminated section has 13 intensity settings, 3 of which can be used with night vision. Using the ACSS Raptor is really easy. The large horseshoe lets you shoot up close targets quickly, even though the SLx is a 3 power optic. The chevron and stadia then give you precision shots out farther. I found the reticle to be a good compromise between close and far range targets. Being a 3 power prism sight, I am a little slower at shooting an array of close in targets, but I am more accurate when out at farther distances. Primary Arms did a good job with the reticle on the SLx 3x MicroPrism. The illuminated part of the reticle is “daylight” bright, even in direct sunlight. If, for some reason, it does wash out a tiny bit, the reticle is etched into the glass, so you get your typical non illuminated black reticle anytime, even if the battery goes dead. 

  If you are worried that the SLx 3x MicroPrism won’t work for your firearm, don’t fret. Primary Arms gave the MicroPrism plenty of mounting options, and they all come with the optic. The SLx manual states 8 different mounting heights. This is from essentially rail height (1.1” to center of prism) to 2.075” to center of optic. There is also one other option. If you have a carry handle AR, fixed or removable, the SLx MicroPrism will mount directly to the carry handle. If you want to use a different mount than the ones supplied, The SLx MicroPrisms use an industry standard “Mini Prism” footprint. 

  One aspect of the Primary Arms MicroPrisms is their exceptional clarity. For the price you pay for one of these, you get extraordinary clear glass. I’ve also found that even though the eye relief is stated at 2.7”, it is very forgiving. Since the MicroPrisms have an etched reticle, they also don’t have the clarity problems for people with astigmatisms. Making the ACSS reticle super clear. Being that this SLx MicroPrism is 3 power, it also has a decent field of view at 100 yds, which is 38 ft. So you will see a 38 foot wide circle, when looking through the prism sight, at 100 yards. 

  The SLx 3x MicroPrism also has a few other features that need mentioning. First off, it uses Primary Arms’ “AutoLive” motion sensing on and off. So when you pick up the SLx prism, the reticle turns on at whatever brightness the knob is set to. After not sensing any movement for a few minutes, the optic goes back into a hibernate mode, where the reticle is off. Once you move the optic, the on cycle starts again. I absolutely love the AutoLive technology and it works fantastic on the Primary Arms’ MicroPrisms. This AutoLive also gives the 3x MicroPrism a battery life of around 29,000 hours. Which is fantastic for any magnified optic. The windage and elevation adjustments are also protected from being hit or accidentally turned. You can even adjust them using the rim of a cartridge. I’ve done it, it’s easier than looking through the range bag for a tool. 

  The Primary Arms SLx 3x MicroPrism fits in well for a fixed mid range optic. It allows close range work too. Everytime I look through one of the Primary Arms MicroPrisms, I am surprised by the optic clarity. Add in the AutoLive function and you have a great combo of features. So if you are looking for a small fixed 3 power optic, check out Primary Arms’ line of SLx MicroPrisms.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Small, lightweight fixed 3 power prism scope

Target Market:

Those wanting a small profile, fixed 3x sight

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • FDE finish

  • 13 total illumination settings, 3 are NightVision compatible

  • Daylight Bright

  • AutoLive motion-sensing on/off battery saving technology 

  • Length: 2.95”  

  • Weight: 7.95 oz.

  • Illuminated and etched ACSS bullet drop reticle

  • Field of View: 38.0 ft @ 100 yds

  • 80 MOA Adjustment

  •  0.25 MOA Click Value

  • 8 Mounting Height Options

  • One CR2032 Battery (Included)

  • Up to 29,000 Hours on medium setting

  • Industry Standard Mini Prism Mount Footprint

  • Eye Relief: 2.7"

  • Lens Covers 

  • Lifetime Warranty

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Black anodized, Griffin MIL reticle

What others are saying?:

5 out 5 stars - Devin at PrimaryArms.com

WOW, PRIMARY ARMS REALLY GOT IT RIGHT WITH THIS ONE!

This is Primary Arms Optic number 3 for me, but will definitely not be the last!

I got this optic for a lighter weight, simplified build. Got tired of dealing with heavy rifles and playing around with LPVO's, so this became the obvious choice. I was a bit skeptical about the fixed 3x magnification, but after zeroing it this afternoon I didn't have any issues taking shots at 100 and 150 yards, ran out of daylight to try any longer distances. However, I don't think I'll have any issues making hits out to 300–400 yards.

I know this is a "budget" priced optic, but I'm pretty impressed, the glass is really clear. The reticle is sharp and informative without being cluttered like so many optics are. Oh, and speaking of the reticle, the illumination is very bright on the maximum setting, much brighter than my LPVO and gen 1 Cyclops prism. I would say it's daylight bright, I actually ended up dropping it down to the 9th or the 10th setting to use during the day.

Link to other reviews:

Lynx Defense  

Price point:

MSRP = $319.99

Retail = Same at Amazon

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Clear

  • Bright ACSS reticle

  • AutoLive

  • Small size

  • Various mounting heights

Cons:

  • Reticle is small to see

Score:  8.00 Great

Favorite Link:  Primary Arms SLx 1x Prism review  

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Primary Arms GLX 10x42 ED Binoculars

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The Primary Arms 

GLx 10x42mm ED Binoculars 

As you can tell this review is about a pair of binoculars. I was lucky enough to receive the GLx 10x42 binos from Primary Arms for review. I wanted to use these during turkey season but life got in the way, so I carried these in my backpack and used them at work. For those of you that don’t know, I'm a paramedic and I run as an intercept, which means I’m in a SUV by myself and I cover a lot of area. I cover three counties when needed, and a lot of it is interstate or in a very rural area. So I’ve been using these to survey the scene of wrecks before I get there, certain hazmat situations. or just try and find a mailbox or house number from way off the road. A lot of the time I use them to just people watch. But l have been using them a lot lately while fishing. I have been looking for skip Jack or shad breaking the water and looking for my buoys when I set out trotlines. 

So a little about these GLX 10x42 binoculars:

  • Features:

  • Grey finish

  • 10x Fixed magnification

  • 42mm Objective lens

  • Waterproof and shockproof

  • Magnesium construction with rubber overmold

  • Fully multicoated lenses

  • 15.2mm Eye relief

  • 6.5 Degrees angular field of view

  • 341 ft. Field of view @ 1,000 yards

  • 2 Meter close focus

  • Prism Type: Roof

  • Length: 5.5 in.

  • Width: 5 in.

  • Height: 2 in.

  • Weight: 23.74 oz.

  • Includes soft case and Neoprene neck strap

These are the technical specifications off of the website, I know it’s a little boring but you need to know what you’re getting. I don’t have a lot of experience with other binoculars, I have carried the same pair for about 15 years or so from another leading company and I can tell you they don’t hold a candle to the GLX pair. These are super clear, light enough to carry with the neck strap around your neck all day. The color and light transmission I got from them reminds me of several high end rifle scopes I have looked through. I have tossed these in the bottom of my flat bottom boat, carried them in a backpack, in the saddle bags while riding horses. I even used them some during trapping season when I had a bunch of skunks I was trapping out of a piece of property. So to say the least they are durable, tough, waterproof and have survived the encounters that I have put them through. I have not been easy on them. 

I really wanted to see how the body held up with hard use without keeping them in the case all the time.  I found out they are tough as nails. The only piece that came off was off the focus ring in the center and it was just the logo for the company. I think it was glued on and it did not affect use of the binos. They were easy to use with sunglasses or my regular glasses. They just seemed to fit to your face once you get them adjusted. 

What I like about them is that they are over rubber and are easy to handle with wet or sweaty hands. I went to my local sports store and looked through their binoculars and tried to make a comparison but it’s hard to do inside. But from what I found is that the GLx 10x42’s are in the same quality of craftsmanship as others that are twice the price. 

I would like to tell you about field of view and all the other specs that are on there but it’s Greek to me. What I can tell you, is that for the money, you’re getting a quality pair of binoculars, for half the cost of a comparable model from those other large manufacturers.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Quality Binoculars at a fair price

Target Market:

Hunters, Bird watching, Backpackers, People watching, Those who like quality, and Concert goers 

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Midrange price point 

  • Primary Arms lifetime warranty 

  • Over molded 

  • Great light transmission 

  • Water resistance 

  • Rugged 

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

SLx

What others are saying?:

5 out of 5 Stars from Joe at Primary Arms

These binoculars are amazing, build quality is top notch and the glass is super clear. I have a high-end pair of Steiner binoculars, and these have just as nice glass as those which are schott glass.I have used a lot of High-end optics, and these are incredible especially at the price tag, these are by far the best binoculars I have seen on the market for that price if not double or triple what these cost.

Link to other reviews:

Target Tamers

Price point:

MSRP = $259.99

Retail = Same

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms or Amazon

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Rugged 

  • Great construction

  • Good quality 

Cons:

  • I really could not come up with any 

Score: 8.00 Great

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Primary Arms SLx 1-6x24 ACSS NOVA

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  Primary Arms has come out with a new Low Power Variable Optic in their SLx line, it’s the 1-6x24mm SFP Gen IV with the Illuminated ACSS Nova Fiber Wire Reticle. The difference between this new 1-6x24 LPVO, and others, is its new fiber wire reticle. The fiber wire produces an actual daylight bright center red dot. The SLx 1-6x24 Nova reticle also has a bunch of other upgraded features when compared to the SLx gen 3's. Let’s go check it out. 

  This new SLx 1-6x24 comes packed with features. Of course it has 1 power magnification so you can use it like a red dot. Or you can crank it up to 6 power to identify and engage targets at longer distances. To change the magnification, Primary Arms has upgraded the throw lever to their new dovetail style. This new throw lever can be taken out and swapped for different heights, including a fold down style. The magnification ring moves about 180 degrees between 1x and 6 x, which is nice. The SLx 1-6 is still a second focal plane optic, but now has different reticle options, including the Nova Fiber Wire reticle. To zero in the reticle, the SLx 1-6 uses capped turrets that adjust in 0.1 MIL increments. The turrets have a good audible clicks to them. There are also 3 tiny set screws to loosen and set those turrets to a known zero position. The scope weighs in at 17.9 ounces and is 10.4 inches long, which is a good balance for this style of optic.

  It’s time to talk about the SLx 1-6’s Nova fiber wire reticle. This Nova reticle is one of the reasons the Gen 4 SLx shines. Using a fiber optic wire allows the Nova reticle to have a center illuminated red dot. I used to complain when companies would say “daylight bright”, not anymore. The red dot inside the SLx 1-6 is BRIGHT. Not only can you see it in direct bright sunlight, but I'm pretty sure it can be seen while aiming it at the sun, but I wouldn’t recommend trying that. The dot is bright enough that it also doesn’t wash out when using a weapon light, a big plus in my book. Because the SLx is an etched reticle, the red dot does not starburst out for those of us that have an astigmatism, something I can’t say for normal red dots. The illuminated dot size measures 0.6 MOA at 1x and 3.6 MOA at 6x. Brightness for the center dot is adjusted on the left side of the scope. It has 11 levels of brightness with only one off position. It is not night vision compatible, the dot is just too bright at level 1 for that. Also included in the reticle are MIL hash marks. The vertical crosshair’s marks are at 1 MIL intervals. There are narrower 0.5 MIL subtension marks between the large 1 MIL ones. These 1 MIL marks decrease in width as you move down the crosshair. This is to estimate a 18” target’s width to help determine what range the target is at. Being a SFP optic, these stadia marks only are accurate at 6x. The horizontal crosshair has marks for wind or travel speed. These are 3,6, and 9 MPH as you move out away from the center dot. The Nova reticle is a great multi-purpose reticle that can range targets or be used as a red dot.

  Since the Primary Arms SLx 1-6x24 is now on the fourth generation of upgrades, this means the user gets upgraded glass. This upgraded glass gives the SLx fantastic clarity. To my eye, it compares to the clarity of my GLx 1-6, which is the next higher level of optics in the Primary Arms optics line. Eye relief on the SLx is stated at 4 inches, but it is very forgiving. The eye box is also pretty good for a scope in this class range. These two specs actually make it very easy to find the optic when shouldering the rifle.  

  I mounted up the SLx 1-6x24 Nova fiber wire on my purple AR15. For this particular rifle, the SLx is great. It is super clear and easy to pick up the reticle. That fiber wire makes the center dot so bright that I can actually use the scope like a red dot at 1x, in bright sunlight. The dot is so bright that I had to turn the brightness way down to get a good picture of the reticle, if that tells you anything. The turret adjustments give me good clicks, so when I turn them, I can tell when they moved. My only complaint about the SLx is the throw lever. It is too stiff for my liking. Even though it’s stiff, the throw lever’s movement is super smooth.

   If you are even remotely looking into getting a LPVO, the Primary Arms SLx 1-6x24 Nova reticle needs a look. The glass clarity is great. The reticle is top notch for a “one optic” rifle. Plus that red center dot has got to be one of the brightest of any LPVO in this price range. I would encourage you to go take a look at the SLx 1-6 Nova from Primary Arms. It might be one of the best LPVO’s in its price range

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Low power variable optic with a super bright red dot

Target Market:

Those wanting a LPVO that is actually daylight bright 

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Integrated Magnification Throw Lever

  • ACSS NOVA Fiber Wire Reticle

  • Battery Life: Up to 500 hours

  • Magnification: 1x – 6x

  • Second Focal Plane (SFP) 

  • Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm

  • Exit Pupil: 10.6mm – 3.8mm

  • Eye Relief: 4 in.

  • Total Windage/Elevation Adjustment: 120 MOA

  • Field Of View @100 Yards: 120 ft. – 20 ft. (Low – High)

  • Illumination: Red, 11 Illumination Settings

  • Click Value: 0.1 MIL

  • Length w/o Lens Covers: 10.4 in.

  • Weight w/ Included Battery w/o Lens Covers: 17.9 oz.

  • Lifetime Warranty

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Different Reticles

What others are saying?:

5/5 Stars at PrimaryArms.com

THE NEW STANDARD FOR BUDGET LPVO'S

Absolutely lives up to the hype, punches well above its price point. Yeah, it's going to get compared a lot to the PST Gen 2, and I can honestly say the overall glass quality and image/FOV/Reticle, and illumination are frankly better than the Vortex. Still doesn't quite match the Vortex in build quality or external controls, and the eyebox is a tad less forgiving, but this Nova scope is hands down the best LPVO on the market under $500.

Link to other reviews:

Lynx Defense

Price point:

MSRP = $339.99

Retail = Same, but Primary Arms runs sales often

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms

Our Rating: 

Pros:

  • Super brightly lit dot in center of reticle

  • Removable and changeable throw lever

  •  Lightweight 

  • Mil style reticle

Cons:

  • Second focal plane

  • Stiff throw lever

Score: 8.50 Great

Favorite Link:  Timber Creek Enforcer Review

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Primary Arms SLx MD-25 gen 2 red dot

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  Primary Arms has updated their SLx MD-25 red dot optic to a Gen 2. The Gen 2 gives you all the great stuff as the first generation, but it now includes Primary Arms’ AutoLIve. With the added AutoLive function, this makes a great red dot for either a rifle or carbine. There are two versions available, one with just a red dot, or one with an ACSS reticle. I received the ACSS version, so everything here will be on the MD-25 Gen 2 with the ACSS CQB reticle. Most of the specifications, except the reticle, apply to the dot only version of the MD-25 Gen 2 also.

  Let’s start this out with an AutoLive explanation. The AutoLive function, of the MD-25 Gen 2, automatically turns the red dot “On” when you pick up or move the optic. It also turns the optic into a sleep, or “Off” mode, after a few minutes of no movement. A big advantage to an auto-on reticle/dot is that it is ready when you need it to be. The AutoLive also extends the battery life, since your optic isn’t “on” all the time. Whatever setting the brightness dial is set to, is the brightness that it turns on at. No readjusting necessary. I absolutely love the AutoLive function. Speaking of brightness, the MD-25 Gen 2 has 11 adjustments on a dial. From night vision compatible all the way up to super bright. The 2032 battery is also housed in the brightness dial. Primary Arms specs the battery life at 12000 hours on the medium setting, so 5 or 6 on the dial. Battery life might seem a little low to some people, but there is more information in the ACSS reticle. For comparison, the MD-25 Gen 2 dot only version has a 50000 hour battery life.

  This particular MD-25 Gen 2 has the ACSS CQB reticle. If you don’t know anything about the Primary Arms ACSS reticles, they are usually a horseshoe line around some sort of chevron (think triangle). The horseshoe on the Gen 2 measures 65 MOA. The chevron triangle sits inside the horseshoe and is used as your main aiming spot. For close up work, just cover the target with the chevron. For more precise work, use the top point of the chevron. The ACSS CQB then has three dots below the chevron. These dot’s are for ranging, as is the bottom of the chevron. The reticle can work with a few different common caliber options as seen in the photo. I like the ACSS CQB reticle, but it is pretty small, so it can be difficult to make out the aiming points for different ranges. The MD-25 Gen 2 is still a red dot style optic. So this means that the image is projected onto the viewing surface. It is not an etched reticle like a scope. This really only affects you if you have an astigmatism, which I do. So for me, the chevron “starbursts” out and looks more like a dot. This is just something to take into consideration. If you have decent vision, the reticle will be very clear. For my use, the MD-25 Gen 2 is not a long range optic, so this doesn’t bother me at all. When shooting real close targets, an advantage to the ACSS CQB reticle is that you can figure out how far above a target you need to aim, to compensate for mechanical offset. Those dots below the chevron, as well as the 65 MOA horseshoe, also help for aiming at those close targets. You don’t have this option with a standard dot only reticle, which is why I feel the ACSS CQB is a better reticle option for an AR rifle.

  The Gen 2 MD-25 is not one of those super tiny red dot optics. I’d say it is medium size. Not so small that it’s hard to see through, and not so large that it’s a tank sitting on your picatinny rail. It only measures 3” long, so almost half the length of those expensive “red dots”. The MD-25 uses 25 mm lenses, but the field of view is really good. Primary Arms says it rivals 30 mm red dots, and I believe it after looking through the MD-25. Even though the MD-25 isn’t a small red dot, it still only tips the scales at 6.5 ounces. It also comes with different mounting height options. So no matter what you put it on, you can get the sight right up to your eye level. If for some reason you don’t like the supplied mount, the MD-25 can be mounted on standard T1 And T2 micro mounts. 

  I’ve been really impressed with the MD-25 Gen 2. It is built super strong. I’m not sure I could break it if I tried. Even if I was to, it’s covered by Primary Arms’ lifetime warranty. The little capped turrets even have raised nubs to keep them protected. These protection nubs will also keep stuff from snagging on the turrets, or at least help. The little turret caps also are aggressively textured with an adjustment built into them for making sight adjustments. The mount is also super strong. Once clamped down, the MD-25 isn’t going anywhere. I wouldn’t hesitate to put this on a rifle that gets beat around some.

  If you are looking for a rugged red dot, that’s not a dot, look into the Primary Arms MD-25 Gen 2 ACSS. This thing is a great size for almost any rifle. It has a ranging type ACSS reticle that even works with a .22 lr. The AutoLive gives you plenty of battery life, over a years worth, and it makes the optic “always ready”. Go check out the SLx MD-25 Gen 2 over at Primary Arms, It’s a good red dot style sight with a unique reticle. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Larger window red dot 

Target Market:

Those wanting an auto on/off red dot with a ranging reticle

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • AutoLive functionality

  • Wide field of view

  • ACSS CQB reticle

  • Up to 12,000 hour battery life at medium setting

  • Uses one CR2032 battery (included)

  • Next generation ruggedized mounting system

  • Includes risers and spacers for mounting to 0.96”, 1.41”, 1.54”, or 1.64” central height

  • Compatible with standard micro mounts

  • Fully multi-coated anti-reflective lenses

  • 12 Illumination settings, night vision compatible

  • 3" long

  • Weight - 6.5 Oz.

  • Fog resistant

  • 0.5 MOA adjustments

  • Lifetime Warranty 

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Dot Only version

What others are saying?:

5/5 stars on Primaryarms.com

This is my 5th or 6th scope purchase from PA. I've never been disappointed yet, so when this one was announced I quickly put it on pre-order to replace a Vortex SPARC that I've never been happy with. I bought this to go on a home defense bullpup shotgun. It is fantastic for this purpose. The big outer circle, with the small aiming dot in the middle, is perfect for fast sight acquisition, and the shake-awake feature gives you one less thing to think about in a crisis situation. The included height adjustment plates let you tailor the height of the sight to your own weapon and preferences. Just another area where PA beats the competition in quality, value, and price. With eleven brightness settings on this reticle, you see it outside in the brightest sun, all the way down to night vision compatibility. I usually prefer green illumination over red, but this sight is extremely clear and my old eyes have no problems with it. - Highly recommended.

Link to other reviews:

Lynx Defense   

Price point:

MSRP = $199.99

Retail = Same, but Primary Arms runs sales quite often

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Clear

  • Bright, well lit, reticle

  • Autolive

  • Mounting options

  • Field of view due to larger physical size

  • 65 MOA circle of ACSS reticle

Cons:

  • Hard to see bullet drop compensation marks

  • Battery life compared to Red Dot version

Score:  8.00 Great

Favorite Link:  Walker Defense

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Primary Arms Classic series 1-6x24

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  Primary Arms’ Classic series of optics is their budget or entry level line. But don’t stop reading just yet, this Classic series 1-6x24 still has a bunch of decent things going for it. The Classic series has good visual clarity as well as an illuminated dot in the center of the reticle. So let’s dive deeper into what the Classic 1-6x24 has to offer.

  Since the Primary Arms Classic 1-6 is an entry level scope, it uses a second focal plane reticle. For anyone that doesn’t know, this means that the reticle stays the same size throughout the 1-6 power magnification range. Since the Classic 1-6 uses a duplex dot style reticle, this doesn’t really affect much. You probably won’t be trying to range target distances with it. Something that amazed me on the Classic 1-6 was the optic clarity. For an entry level scope, everything was real clear, even at 6 power. I’ve seen entry level stuff that isn’t near this clear.

  The little Classic 1-6 has some other notable features. For one, it uses a 30mm tube that helps let light through the optic, plus it’s pretty much the industry standard for low power variable optics. The adjustment turrets are capped. This helps to keep your adjustments from getting changed. These caps are decently knurled to make them easy to take on and off. However, the windage and elevation adjustment turrets don’t have any marks to line up the turret with the body of the scope. So if you want to go 4 clicks, there’s no indication that you went there. Primary Arms does put a moveable “zero” piece on top of the turret, but without a mark on the scope body, it’s useless. I’d put a tiny dot of paint on it for location purposes. Even though there’s no visual reference on zero, the actual clicks on this Classic series are great. So it’s easy to count how many clicks you moved the turret. Each click is 0.5 MOA, so approximately ½” at 100 yds. There’s also a full 120 MOA of adjustment in the scope. Last on this feature list is the nice throw lever. It sticks up high enough to easily adjust the magnification, but it’s not super tall either. If you don’t like throw levers, it is simple to remove and then you are left with a standard style adjustment ring.

  One of my favorite aspects of the Classic 1-6 is its reticle. The reticle is a duplex dot style (see picture). The 3 heavy duplex lines draw your eye to the center of the reticle. Then in the center are some fine lines that point to a center dot. The center dot measures 2 MOA. This center dot has red illumination, if you want it to. The illumination has 10 settings. These pretty much go from barely visible to pretty bright. I say pretty bright, because in bright sunlight the dot illumination isn’t visible. But it’s a $200 scope and 90% of the time, you will be able to see the illumination of the center dot. This reticle works great on something like a standard AR, where the cartridge shoots pretty flat out to 300 yds. Plus, being a 1-6 power, at 1x it’s almost like using a red dot. The reticle really impressed me.

  I mounted the Classic 1-6x24 on a standard 16” AR in 5.56. I will say it works well for close targets. Even at 3-5 yds it performed respectfully. Moving out to 200 yds and jumping the magnification up to 6x, the Classic 1-6 still worked well. Targets were clear, but getting in the right eyebox window was a little challenging. With this Classic 1-6, you really need to have your eye in that sweet spot of the eye relief. This was the scopes biggest downfall for me. I also had to remind myself that it is an entry level LPVO. Especially since the glass was so much better than I expected. So much so, that it was easy for me to hit, and see, 4” plates at 200 yds, while using the Classic 1-6.

  If you are looking into trying out a LPVO, or just want a budget one, the Primary Arms Classic 1-6x24 is a great place to start. Its reticle is simple to use and it has great optic clarity for something in this price range. I'd say, for the price, you'd be hard pressed to find something as good. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Budget friendly 1-6 power optic

Target Market:

Those wanting a quality budget scope

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 1-6x Magnification range

  • Illuminated Duplex Dot reticle, Dot is 2 MOA

  • Second focal plane design

  • Fast focus eyepiece

  • Fogproof, dustproof, and IP67 rated waterproof

  • 6063 Aluminum body with matte black anodized finish

  • Integrated magnification lever

  • Uses 1 - CR2032 battery (included)

  • Includes lens covers

  • Click Value - 1/2 MOA

  • Eye ReliefLow: 3.5in. / High: 3.9in.

  • Field of View at 100yds - 1X: 113 ft. / 6X: 18.8 ft.

  • 120 MOA windage and elevation adjustments

  • Weight - 17.21 oz.

  • 30mm tube diameter

  • Lifetime Warranty

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

None

What others are saying?:

5/5 stars at PrimaryArms

GREAT VALUE

Don't expect top-tier performance (the highest illumination is not daylight bright, bare-bones reticle, eye box can be tight) but a budget LPVO can't really get much better than this - Clear glass and features every functional feature (capped turrets, audible adjustments, illuminated reticle center). 100% recommended if you're in the market for a high-value optic.

Link to other reviews:

Lynx Defense   

Price point:

MSRP = $199.99

Retail = Same, but Primary Arms has sales quite often

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Simple reticle with red center dot

  • 2 MOA center dot

  • Lifetime warranty

  • Clear

  • Price

Cons:

  • Narrow eye box

  • No marks for turret adjustments

Score: 7.50 Good

Favorite Link:  Timber Creek

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Primary Arms SLx 4-16x44 FFP

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  Recently Primary Arms updated the SLx 4-16x44. This update gave the feature rich, SLx 4-16 some new reticles. One of those is the ARC-2 MOA, a simple, yet effective, illuminated reticle. I was excited to put this optic through its paces and it did not disappoint. Primary Arms’ SLx line is what I like to call performance packed optics at a price everyone can afford.

  To put it simply, the SLx 4-16x44 FFP has magnification of 4x to 16x. It has a 44mm objective lens and a 30mm tube to help gather as much light as possible. Magnification is adjusted with a ring back by the eyepiece. The ring has a raised “fin” that can be removed if you don’t like it. It has a side parallax adjustment that goes from 20 yds to infinity. On the end, of said parallax adjustment, is the illumination ring. It has 11 values to illuminate the ARC-2 reticle. The lowest 2 settings are night vision compatible. The highest setting is “daylight” bright. I can actually see a little bit of red illumination in bright sunlight, something I can’t always say when things are “daylight bright”. The adjustment turrets on the SLx are of the tactical style. They are not capped, nor can they be. They have a pretty good tactile feel for the 1/4 MOA clicks, but are not very audible, if at all. These turrets are resettable to zero with the supplied allen wrench. No zero stop, but I can’t knock a $300 scope for that.

  Now that you have a general rundown of the optic, it’s time for more. I’ll start with the glass. For this being in the SLx line, the glass clarity is great, even at full 16x magnification. I could make out a wire fence at around 500 yds, see picture. The fast focus eyepiece gets the reticle super clear and the parallax adjustment gets the image spot on at all different ranges. I really am amazed at how clear the glass is for a $300 scope. The only real downfall of looking through the optic is its eye relief. Primary Arms specs the eye relief at 3.6 - 3.9”. So you really have to be in that 0.3” range to get a good eye box picture. Especially at those higher magnifications. I’m not using this on fast moving targets, so it doesn’t bother me much.

  The Primary Arms 4-16x44 FFP has a few different reticle options. Some are their ACSS style, but I’ll be focusing on the ARC-2 reticle of this particular scope. I chose the ARC-2 MOA reticle because it is not cluttered up with stuff, like so many “christmas tree reticles” are. First off, the reticle is in minutes of angle, which is what I prefer. Second, it’s a first focal plane (FFP) reticle. So all the subdivisions, or hash marks, stay the same size throughout the magnification range. The reticle grows as you increase the magnification. This is so those marks in the reticle stay the same, and are usable for windage and elevation holdovers, at any magnification. On that note, Primary Arms did a nice job with this reticle. Almost all of the MOA marks are visible when at 16x. I’ve seen FFP optics that, a big portion of, the reticle disappears when at full magnification. The reticle itself is essentially just a crosshair with little marks spaced every 2 MOA apart. Every 10 MOA, there is a larger mark and a number, at least on the elevation portion of the reticle. Windage is a little different, with 2 MOA marks for the first 10 MOA, and then marks every 5 MOA past that. See the reticle picture for values. This reticle is very clean. It’s kind of old school mil-dot meets new school technology. Did I mention that the grid portion of the reticle is illuminated? Well it is, in red, with 11 brightness settings. I really like the style of simple and useful reticles like the ARC-2.

  The ARC-2 is such a great reticle, but adjusting your scope is still very important. That brings us to the target style turrets on the 4-16x44. If you are into dialing your scope for windage and elevation adjustments, you want good target turrets. I found these to be repeatable, at least in my testing. If I dialed up 15 MOA, and then back down 15 MOA, it shot where I expected it to. I didn’t do a tracking test, But this isn’t a $1000+ scope, so I didn’t see any need for me to do that. The clicks on the turrets feel really good but you can’t really hear them. I prefer feel over hearing them anyway. They also have a little resistance to them, which is nice, so they don’t move if you bump them in the field. Each turret adjusts in 0.25 MOA/click and 15 MOA per 1 revolution of the turret. It has over 85 MOA of total adjustment, or about 6 full turns of the turret. L/R and UP are marked next to or under the turret, depending on which one it is. There is also a little mark to use for setting zero. The SLx 4-16 has the ability to set the turret dials to zero, after you have sighted it in. There’s 3 tiny set screws at the turret's top, loosen them and rotate the knob to zero. Tighten them back up and your zero is now set. 

  I have the Primary Arms SLx 4-16x44 mounted on a “varmint style” AR. The scope weighs in at 25 ounces. But in this case, it is the perfect scope for this particular rifle. The SLx has performed super well for me. It’s super clear for a scope in this price range. It’s easily adjusted, if needed. It has an illuminated reticle for low light use. A parallax adjustment that goes super low, so if I wanted to use it on something like a .22lr, I could. I wouldn’t hesitate to take this hunting in the brush. I think it would make an excellent hunting scope as the ARC-2 reticle doesn’t take up a lot of room in the scope. The magnification range is also great for this AR’s use case.

  If you're in the market for a feature rich FFP optic, the Primary Arms SLx 4-16x44 ARC-2 might be it. I just can’t get over all the options you get in this optic, and at an incredible price. It performed better than my expectations for sure. The updated SLx scopes from Primary Arms are definitely worth checking out.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Quality low priced FFP optic

Target Market:

Those wanting excellent quality in a mid range optic, but at a reasonable price

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • First Focal Plane ARC-2 MOA reticle

  • Partial Red Reticle Illumination, Visible in Sunlight

  • 11 brightness adjustments, including 2 that are Night Vision compatible 

  • Side Parallax adjustment

  • Click Value: 0.25 MOA

  • FOV @ 4x / 100 yd : 26.6 ft

  • FOV @ 16x / 100 yd : 6.5 ft

  • Total Windage and Elevation Adjustment: > 85 MOA

  • Zero resettable turrets  

  • Weight (with Battery, without Lens Covers): 25.4 oz

  • Tube Diameter: 30 mm

  • Eye Relief: 3.6 – 3.9 in

  • Fast Focus Eyepiece

  • Fog Resistant

  • Fully Nitrogen Purged, IP67 Waterproof Standard and Dust Proof

  • 6063 Aluminum with Anodized Matte Black

  • Flip-up Lens Covers Included

  • Uses one CR2032 Battery (Included)

  • Lifetime Warranty

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Tons in the SLx line    

What others are saying?:

Nothing found as of this review

Link to other reviews:

Same - nothing found

Price point:

MSRP = $299.99

Retail = Same, but Primary Arms always has sales going on

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms or Amazon

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Price

  • First Focal Plane reticle

  • Reticle options

  • Good Illumination

  • Clear field of view

Cons:

  • Non-forgiving eye box

Score: 8.50 Great

Favorite Link:  SLx 1x Prism

Primary Arms is an advertiser on the Gun & Gear Review podcast. This does not give them a better review than any other company. 

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Primary Arms Classic Mini & Micro red dots

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  Primary Arms has come out with a couple of new reflex sights. Both of these are from their value priced “Classic” line of optics. The two new red dots are the Classic Mini and Classic Micro. Both have 3 MOA dot sizes and are on common mounting footprints, making it easy to mount on various pistol slides.

  I’m putting the Micro and Mini together since they both function the same way. These reflex sights are your common “open” style. The main difference is size, weight, and mounting footprint. But as far as function, they are very similar. To turn them on, just push the brightness up button, marked with a plus sign. For off, just hold down the brightness down button for a few seconds, the one marked with a minus sign. If you forget to turn the sights off, they will automatically turn off after 12 hours of use. If you push a button anytime in that window of time, the sight resets the 12 hours. These two red dots both have 10 brightness settings. From sunny daylight bright down to midnight dark. You really can see and use all 10 of the brightness settings, if that’s what you want. The Mini’s up/down buttons are located on the left side of the reflex sight. The Micro has the up button on the left side and the down button on the right side. This is because the Micro is quite a bit smaller than the Mini.

Classic series MICRO

Classic series MINI

  When it comes to small red dot sights, people seem to want to know about battery life. I would tend to say that this is because everyone hates changing batteries. On the Primary Arms Classic Mini and Micro, the CR2032 battery is located on the bottom of the mounting surface. So battery life is more important because the sight must be taken off to change it. I’m not keen on the bottom mount battery, but since the battery lasts approximately 40,000 hours on brightness setting 5, I’m okay with it. 

Mini 3 MOA dot

Micro 3 MOA dot

  The 3 MOA dot size is a good option for the Micro and Mini. I like the precision that a 3 MOA dot allows. Yet it isn't too small to see on a handgun. I pick up the dot pretty quick with these reflex sights. Surprisingly, the dot on the squarer window of the Micro is easier for me to pick up, even though it is smaller. Don’t get me wrong, the red dot on the Mini’s more rounded window is still easy for me to pick up, but the window size is also noticeably larger. These reflex sights use fully multi-coated lenses to help make that red dot as bright and clear as can be. You do notice a very, very slight tint to them, but it doesn’t distract from seeing your target or the dot. To sight in the dot, they both have 1 MOA adjustment screws at the back and right side of the sights. They use a small allen wrench to adjust them, but they are not click adjustable. 

  The Classic series Mini is mainly for standard size pistols. It uses a RMR footprint to mount the red dot to a slide, or possibly a picatinny riser. The width is about 1.2 inches, when measured to the outside of the buttons, so it fits nicely on most compact and full size pistols. I really like how Primary Arms designed this for the RMR footprint, as it is one of the industry standards. So finding a slide or pistol to mount the Mini on is super easy. The Mini also has a decent sized window, at 24x17mm. This window is also slightly curved at the top to give you a better view of the red dot. This larger window also makes it easier to find the dot, so to speak. Being the larger of the two red dots, the Mini still comes in with a weight of 0.97 ounces.

Mini size compared to a penny, Micro is smaller yet

  Now onto the Classic series Micro. This is the smaller version mainly for use on sub-compact and micro pistols. It measures 1 inch at the buttons, but is actually a little slimmer in real life. Primary Arms uses the RMSc industry standard footprint for the Micro. Using the RMSc footprint is by far the best choice for this red dot. The window size comes in at 21x15mm. Even though the window isn’t very large, the squarer viewing window is easier for me to pick up. I mounted it on a glockish 43 and it looks right at home. The Micro is pretty much half the weight of its larger brother, coming in at 0.56 ounces. The height profile of the Micro also allowed me to use standard height backup sights. It does cut the sight’s viewing angle off some, but they still can be seen fine. So you may not have to purchase new iron sights with the Micro, a definite plus in my book.

  Both the Primary Arms Classic Mini and Micro red dots work great. They both handled recoil fine and I didn’t break them. I would recommend these to anyone looking for a cost effective red dot for range, competition, or just “fun” use. With no way to leave them on continuously, carry use is out for me. Look into the Primary Arms RS-10 if you need something for carry or home defense, as it will always be on. For what they are, the Mini and Micro are both great budget friendly options for a reflex style red dot.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Value packed reflex red dot sight

Target Market:

Anyone wanting a feature packed, low cost reflex style red dot

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

Both:

  • 3 MOA Red dot

  • Includes CR2032 battery

  • Up to 40k hour battery life on medium setting

  • 10 Brightness settings

  • Compact and lightweight design

  • Fully multicoated lens

  • 1 MOA adjustments

  • 6061-T6 aluminum housing

  • Bottom mounted battery

Mini:

  • Fits RMR footprint

  • Large 24x17mm Lens

  • Weight - 0.97 ounces

Micro:

  • Fits RMSc footprint

  • Compact 21x15mm lens

  • Optimized for micro-compact pistols

  • Weight - 0.56 ounces

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

None

What others are saying?:

???

Link to other reviews:

Lynx Defense - PA Micro and PA Mini

Price point:

MSRP = $149.99

Retail = Same

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms or Amazon

Micro

Mini

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Bright dot

  • Price

  • Lifetime Warranty

  • Fits common mounting footprints

Cons:

  • Turns off after 12 hours

  • Bottom load battery

Score: 7.50 Good

Favorite Link:  Kaiser US

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Primary Arms GLx 1-6x24 FFP ACSS Raptor

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  When I opened the box with the Primary Arms GLx 1-6x24, I was super excited. The GLx 1-6x24 is one of Primary Arms’ mid-tier optics. So it falls, price and feature wise, in between their SLx and PLx lines. This particular GLX 1-6x24 has an ACSS-Raptor reticle and is a first focal plane (FFP) optic. This low power variable optic (LPVO) is packed with features.

  Since the reticle is such an important part of your optic, let's start with the ACSS Raptor M6 reticle. The Raptor M6 Advanced Combined Sighting System, or ACSS, is a range estimating and bullet drop compensating reticle. Being that it is a FFP optic, the ranging and estimation properties stay the same throughout the magnification range. This is a big plus as one doesn’t have to recalculate anything at different magnification ranges. The Raptor M6 reticle is calibrated for these cartridges: 5.56 NATO, 5.45x39, .308 Win, 6.5 Grendel and 6.8 SPC. Give or take a few differences in actual ballistics. I mounted it on a 5.56 AR with a 16” barrel and the drop estimations seemed to work well, at least for the ranges I could test. 

1x - targets at 50, 100, & 200 yds. Full reticle illumination

6x - 200 yd targets. Full reticle illumination

  A description of the Raptor M6 reticle is probably in order. The Raptor is a horseshoe style reticle. So there's a larger circle around a chevron aiming point (think triangle). The circle is missing the bottom portion, hence the “horseshoe” name. Then the Raptor has a vertical line, with short horizontal lines on it, to compensate for bullet drops at various ranges. There’s also some dots for wind holds, if needed. On the right and left side of the chevron are MIL ranging lines. These are to quickly assess the range of a 5’ 10” target. The middle chevron aiming point is where precision comes into play. Use the top point of the chevron for accurate aiming. Or just put the chevron over something for quicker shots. The bottom triangle point will be your 200 yard holdover, and then the bottom of the chevron will be your 300 yard holdover. All of this is in Primary Arms’ manuals, I’m just trying to give you a quick summary. Now, if you turn the GLx 1-6 down to its true 1x, the reticle gets pretty small. Don’t fret, this is actually very useful. Now you can use it for super quick shots up close. Very similar to a circle dot reticle in a red dot. Even with both eyes open. Oh, did I mention the chevron is illuminated? It is, but it and the horseshoe are the only parts that are illuminated, the rest of the reticle stays black. 

  Primary Arms also stuck their “Autolive” on/off into the GLx 1-6. The autolive turns the reticle off after 3 minutes of no physical movement, then quickly turns it back on when a tiny bit of movement happens. I love the autolive function and in the case of the GLx, it gives around 600 hrs of battery life. They say it is a daylight bright reticle, but in direct sunlight, the red illumination is pretty non existent. Any time besides direct sun, the reticle’s illumination is easy to see and brightly lit up. It has 10 brightness levels, with and off between each one. I like that there's an “off” between each “on.”

  Now that the long winded reticle explanation is done, we can focus on the glass in the GLx 1-6. Primary Arms uses low-dispersion glass that is multi coated. Why do you care? Because it makes everything look super clear and bright. Yes, the glass is really that clear. The magnification ranges are true to the numbers, so 1x is really no magnification, and 6x is really 6 times normal. I really appreciate the true 1x for running close targets at the range. The 6x makes it pretty easy to hit targets at various ranges also. The field of view is pretty decent, specs are below if you're interested. The eye relief is pretty forgiving at 1x, it’s around 3 to 3.5 inches, but you don’t need to be perfect with it. At 6x that’s a different story, you really need to be in the scopes sweet spot. The clarity of the glass really does rival some of the higher end 1-6’s

  If you are not using the GLx’s Raptor reticle for bullet drop compensation, it has some pretty nice turrets to use instead. The GLx 1-6 comes from the factory with capped turrets. But hold on, there’s something more in the box. Also included is a single exposed turret. Yes, you can replace the elevation turret with a non-capped one. I suppose you could put it on the windage turret also, but why.  Now you can dial in the adjustments as necessary without having to take the cap off. I get that if you are running around in the woods, or doing secret squirrel stuff, you might want the advantage of having capped turrets. But for me, I instantly installed the tactical, non-capped turret. Adjustments are the same either way and adjust in increments of 0.1 MIL’s. These adjustments also use a steel on steel mechanism. This means you’ll have consistent adjustments and repeatability for a lifetime. The GLx 1-6 does have some physically large turrets. This makes it much easier to adjust with gloves, or just in general. The clicks are fairly decent and audible. They feel a tad bit mushy to me, but that’s probably due to the sealing that keeps water and dust out. In all, the turrets adjust well. These turrets can also be loosened up and set to zero. Not a zero stop, but at least you’ll have a zero point to adjust from. 

  There are a few other notable aspects of the Primary Arms GLx 1-6. One is the throw lever. The throw lever makes it easier and quicker to adjust the magnification ring. The ring adjustment operates smoothly, but having the throw lever is really nice. It sticks up about ½” above the ring. So it isn’t really in the way, but is still large enough to matter. Primary Arms also made the lever removable and changeable. It is screwed onto a tiny dovetail. Just unscrew it and slide it off to change it to a larger one, a folding one, or just to leave it off. This next aspect is its weight. It weighs in at 21 ounces. This is a few more ounces than some others in this mid-tier. When I say a few more, it’s like 3 ounces difference, so not much. But on the plus size of the weight, the GLx 1-6 is built like a tank. It is solid. I wouldn’t hesitate to use this LPVO harshly.

  If you are in the market for a top quality LPVO, but don’t want to pay top-tier pricing, the Primary Arms GLx 1-6x24 might be everything you need. The glass is super clear, it has a very useful FFP reticle, is pretty much indestructible, can range objects on the fly, and turns on and off automatically. What more could you want? I’d definitely look into one of these if you intend on running your stuff hard. You can check the GLX 1-6x24 ACSS Raptor M6 out at Primary Arms, as well as all the other products they have over there.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Mid-tier low power variable optic (LPVO) with first focal plane reticle (FFP)

Target Market:

Those wanting a quality mid grade LPVO

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 1-6x Magnification

  • 24mm objective

  • 3.3" - 3.5" of eye relief

  • FOV: 104 ft at 1x, 18 ft at 6x

  • 30mm main tube

  • High strength one-piece 6061-T6 aluminum body

  • 10.25" long

  • Weighs 21.3 Oz

  • Premium grade glass

  • Steel-on-Steel precision adjustments

  • Tactile and audible 1/10 MIL click value

  • Turrets are user configurable between Tactical or Capped

  • Movable and replaceable magnification ring fin

  • Partial reticle illumination - Inner part only

  • First Focal Plane ACSS Raptor M6 Reticle

  • Autolive motion activated illumination

  • 10 total brightness settings, 2 of which are night vision compatible 

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Griffin M6 reticle   

What others are saying?:

5/5 stars at Primary Arms

EXACTLY WHAT I NEEDED

Using this for an old m1a, as a red dot and magnifier don't really work for that platform. The glass is very clear and good eye relief, I zeroed and used out to 400 yards. Impact at 200 and 300 worked well on the bdc reticle, but I had to hold about 450 to hit the 400. I have access to longer range but haven't had chance to try it out yet. I let my friend shoot it and he was very impressed by the glass. Great scope for the price, it is bright on 11 but not like an aimpoint when shooting in the sunlight

Link to other reviews:

Thin Line Defense on YouTube it’s the Griffin reticle, but close enough 

Price point:

MSRP = $599.99

Retail = Same, but Primary Arms runs sales all the time

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Super clear glass

  • Ranging reticle

  • Large capped turrets

  • Optional Elevation turret that replaces capped one

  • Autolive motion activation

  • Removable Throw lever

Cons:

  • Reticle is not daylight bright

  • Heavy-ish

Score:  8.00 Great

Favorite Link:  Walker Defense Research

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Primary Arms SLx RS-10 red dot

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  When I first learned about the new Primary Arms SLx RS-10 mini reflex sight, I was very interested. Then I received one, and was even more excited. This little, open reflex, pistol mounted red dot is everything they said it would be. Including a great price of $199.99.

Autolive in action

  The SLx RS-10 is packed with features. It runs a 3 MOA red dot that is easily picked up. It has 11 brightness settings. Of which include night vision compatibility and daylight bright. I couldn’t try out the night vision setting, but the daylight bright setting is really bright, even in direct sunlight. You should have zero problems seeing the dot in any light. The RS-10 also has easy to use controls on the left side. These buttons are only raised slightly above the RS-10’s surface. Of course they control brightness as well as actual on/off. I say “actual” because the RS-10 features Primary Arms’ “Autolive”. The Autolive is an automatic on/off function that works fantastic. Just barely move the sight and the dot turns on. After about 3 minutes of zero sight movement, the sight turns off. Any teeny movement will keep the RS-10 on. Back to the “actual” on/off. To turn the sight off, as if you are going to store it for a long time, just hold the up and down buttons simultaneously for a few seconds and the sight will permanently turn off. Then to turn it back on, and into the Autolive feature, just hold either the up or down button a few seconds until the dot turns on. Primary Arms specs the battery life at 40,000 hours with a CR2032 battery. So if you change the battery out once a year, you should be good to go and never have the dreaded dead dot. If you couldn’t tell, I really like the Autolive feature.

  Primary Arms also stuck some other features into the RS-10. For strength, they manufacture the housing out of 7075 aluminum. This is the same grade aluminum that quality AR receivers are made from, so it should be good to go. I really like the shape they chose for the housing and window. The rounded, almost square shape seems to draw my eye to the dot. I seem to find the dot much faster than other pistol mounted red dots. Primary Arms says the window size is 23mm and even if it is a smaller window than some brands, see the above comments. I mentioned battery life earlier, but the RS-10 does have a side loading battery tray. That means you can change the battery without having to remove the sight from your desired mounting platform, keeping your zero intact. Coming in at just over an ounce, the RS-10 shouldn’t weigh you down either.

  Anymore, the mounting method for a reflex sight is very important. Mainly because one needs to know if it will fit on their handgun. The SLx RS-10 uses the fairly common Docter/Noblex footprint to directly mount to stuff. Primary Arms also includes a picatinny rail mount and a Glock MOS plate. That way if you aren’t mounting it directly to a pistol, you have some options. For instance, it would make a great 45 degree offset red dot for a rifle. I ended up mounting it on a Strike Industries Liteslide for a G19, as it has a multi optic mounting platform. The SLX RS-10 mounted in perfectly. Primary Arms decided to go with the Docter mounting footprint so they could use that CR2032 battery and have it side mounted. Since the battery is physically larger than other options, you end up getting more battery life out of it. For the small size of the RS-10, a different mounting footprint just wouldn’t work. 

  The SLx RS-10 is a great little red dot. This doesn’t come without a few tiny gripes. If you hold the RS-10 on target, and start shaking it a tiny bit, in a circle, the dot will galaxy out. So it literally looks kind of like a little galaxy inside the window. Does it bother anything? Nope, when shooting the pistol I didn’t even notice it. Even on moving and circling targets. Most people probably wouldn’t even notice it. I also would have liked to see it on a RMR footprint, but Primary Arms didn’t do this because of those “battery” reasons. I can understand this. Now, on a good note. Even for me, with my astigmatism, the dot is fairly clear. So those with normal eyes will see a nice crisp dot. 

  I am going to say this, the Primary Arms SLx RS-10 is currently my go to red dot pistol sight. This red dot impressed me more than I expected. I can find the dot easily. I haven’t destroyed it yet. Even if I did, it has a lifetime warranty. The size doesn’t get in the way. I’d say it is somewhere between one of the super small mini reflex versions and a Holosun 507. The RS-10 is always ready to go because of the “Autolive” feature. The click adjustments for windage and elevation make it easy to make adjustments, unlike other mini reflex sights that have no clicks. I ran this thing fairly hard and have had zero problems. 

  If you are looking for a mini reflex red dot, the SLx RS-10 from Primary Arms might be it. It is priced under $200. At that price, it’s a great deal for this feature packed red dot. With the Autolive function, you won’t have to worry about if the dot is on or off, because it will always be on. I don’t think you can go wrong selecting the Primary Arms SLx RS-10 mini reflex sight. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Quality Mini Reflex red dot sight for a great value

Target Market:

Anyone wanting a decent priced pistol mounted red dot

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 7075 aluminum body

  • Side-loading CR2032 battery compartment

  • Convenient push-button controls

  • 11 Brightness settings

  • Daylight bright and night vision compatible brightness levels

  • 3 MOA dot

  • Picatinny Rail Mount and Low Profile Adaptor Plate for Glock® MOS Slides Included

  • Autolive motion activation

  • 40,000 hour battery life

  • Weighs just 1.07 Oz

  • 23mm window

  • Lifetime warranty

  • Docter/Noblex footprint

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

None

What others are saying?:

5 out of 5 stars on Amazon 

Another great option from PA

Mounted on my Canik Rival with no issues. Great product for the price. Will highly consider getting another in the future.

Link to other reviews:

Lynx Defense  

Price point:

MSRP = $199.99

Retail = $199.99 but Primary Arms is constantly running sales

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Autolive motion activation

  • Price

  • Dot is easily picked up

  • Side loading battery

  • Actual “click” windage and elevation adjustments 

Cons:

  • Doctor / Noblex footprint

  • Galaxies when circling a target fast

Score:  8.00 Great

Favorite Link:  Walker Defense Research

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Expo Arms Patrol Series AR Upper

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  Expo Arms has recently gotten into the AR-15 upper receiver market. They have a few options for pistols, SBR’s, and standard AR configurations. This particular upper is their Patrol series with a 16” barrel and A2 flash hider. If you didn’t know, Expo Arms is the in-house brand for Primary Arms and is sold exclusively through them.

  The Expo Arms Patrol Series is an everyday use AR-15 barrelled upper receiver. These do not come with a bolt carrier group (BCG) or charging handle. However when you order the upper, Primary Arms gives some drop down menus with discounted add ons, such as a BCG. The Patrol Series comes with a bunch of good specs: A 5.56 chamber, 1:7 twist nitrided 4150 cmv barrel, mid-length gas system, A2 flash hider, T-marked upper receiver, and a 15” M-Lok handguard.

  Barrels are an important part of any AR system. On 16” barrels, like this one, I like mid-length gas systems. They are smoother feeling and put less wear on components then a carbine length gas system. Being that the barrel is also salt bath nitrided, it will have a good lifespan and keep corrosion away. Expo Arms uses a SOCOM profile on the barrel. I like the profile as it gives strength and consistency without being heavy. Of course the muzzle is threaded and comes with an A2 flash hider installed. The barrel consistently shoots under 1 MOA for me with 69 grain match rounds. 

  Expo Arms uses their own T-marked upper receiver. This is a standard forged version made from 7075-T6 aluminum. It has a round style forward assist and a standard mil-spec port door. The whole upper is nicely machined and anodized. 

  To cover the barrel, and give you something to hold onto, is the 15” M-Lok handguard. This is a very nice, useful, no frills handguard. It runs a full top rail that is not sharp. The sharp parts of the rail have been deburred slightly. Along the other portions of the handguard are M-Lok slots. These M-Lok slots are every 45 degrees around the handguard, not just the standard of every 90. It’s a clamp on style handguard, but also has some anti-rotation tabs to keep it from rotating. I’ve never had a problem with these style handguards rotating on me, but the tabs are a nice addition. I really liked the Expo Arms handguard, I’d even consider it as a stand alone item. 

  If you’re looking for a good quality AR upper, the Expo Arms Patrol series might just be it. It has a lot of nice features for the price. In fact, I am still amazed at the 0.75” group I shot with it. Definitely go check out the Expo Arms series of stuff over at Primary Arms. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Quality 5.56 AR Upper receiver at a fair price

Target Market:

Anyone wanting a 16” AR upper

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 7075-T6 forged aluminum MIL-SPEC upper

  • 5.56 NATO chamber

  • T-Marked

  • 16" Patrol Series Nitride barrel

  • 41V50 Chrome Moly Vanadium Steel barrel

  • SOCOM barrel contour 

  • Mid-Length Gas System

  • 1:7 Twist Rate

  • 15" Expo Arms Patrol Series M-LOK Handguard

  • A2 Flash Hider

  • No BCG or Charging handle

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Various

What others are saying?:

Nothing as of publishing

Link to other reviews:

Nothing as of publishing

Price point:

MSRP = $349.99

Retail = Check Primary Arms for sales

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Nitride Barrel

  • T-Marked upper

  • M-Lok handguard

  • Full top rail

  • Accurate

Cons:

  • Doesn’t come with BCG or CH (options are available)

Score: 8.50 Great

Favorite Link:  Walker Defense Nero Review

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Primary Arms IFAK Kit

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  Primary Arms has been releasing new products left and right. They recently came out with their own trauma medical kit and a pouch to hold it all in. Well, they may have teamed up with North American Rescue for the supplies, which is a good thing. Many of us are big proponents of having medical gear, especially trauma medical gear, me included. Let’s not forget the knowledge of how to use that med gear also.

  The main part of this med kit is the Individual First Aid Kit, or IFAK for short. It has all the goodies you will need to stop major trauma, see the FNB’s below for the contents. It is also vacuum sealed, so if you want to leave it that way, you can. Or open it up and use it as a refill for your current kit. One big advantage to this IFAK kit is that it comes with a CAT tourniquet. Another nice addition in the kit are chest seals. I actually added an inhaler and some antihistamines, because you never know when you might be allergic to something. If you don’t know how to use some of this stuff, they include a little instruction card to help you remember. The card doesn't take the place of actual training, but it can help.

  Primary Arms then adds in their First Aid Pouch. Mine is in OD Green, but they have black, red, and coyote. It also comes with a little red cross patch so that others know it’s some sort of medical kit. The pouch itself measures 7” x 6” x 4.5”. It’s a nice size for all the stuff in the IFAK, but is a little large to mount on a duty belt. However, it could work nicely on a vest or on a bag. For mounting the pouch, it uses the standard MOLLE snap straps. They are permanently affixed to the back panel of the pouch. Speaking of the back panel, it is separate from the pouch itself. The back panel is a big chunk of soft loop. The main pouch just sticks to the backing. The back then has a strap that can be wrapped around the pouch to keep it more secure. I really like this mounting, that way the pouch can be torn off and used quickly, or taken to someone who needs it. There is a handle on top to help with the aforementioned. Of course, the pouch has 2 zippers that meet at the top to make access easy. Various elastic pockets inside give you a variety of mounting options for all the medical gear in your kit. There is some MOLLE on the front, in case you need to attach something to the front of it, along with a strip of soft loop above the MOLLE. Lastly, it has a top flap that can hold the tourniquet on the outside. It’s a good idea, I just didn’t think it is sturdy enough to keep the tourniquet in place under hard use.

   Luckily, I have never had to use any of my trauma gear. Except maybe a band-aid or two. The Primary Arms IFAK is still a great way to have it ready if needed. Since they are reasonably priced, you can throw one in your vehicle, backpack, or wherever you might think you’ll need it. If you just want a decent small medical bag so you can put your own supplies in it, that’s an option also.

  I’m really glad Primary Arms started putting all this trauma medical gear in one place. You can’t go wrong with this IFAK kit, it has all the supplies you might need in this size of kit. I’d definitely check it out, especially since you can just get the refill kit if you already have some sort of med kit/pouch. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Individual First Aid Kit with tear away pouch

Target Market:

Anyone needing a first aid trauma kit

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

First Aid Pouch

  • 600D Construction

  • 7” x 6” x 4.5” 

  • MOLLE/PALS Compatible

  • Clam Shell Configuration

Kit

  • CAT Combat Application Tourniquet

  • Vacuum Sealed Bag

  • Patrolatum Gauze (3" x 18")

  • Emergency Trauma Dressing (4", Flat)

  • Blue responder gloves (Large)

  • Compressed Gauze

  • 1" Surgical Tape

  • Hyfin Compact Vented Chest Seal Dressing (Twin pack)

  • 1oz Eye wash solution

  • Safetec Burn Gel

  • Small 6.25" Trauma Shears

  • 10 flexible fabric bandages (3/4" x 3")

  • Ziploc Bag (2" x 5")

  • 2 Antibiotic Ointment

  • 8 Alcohol Prep Pads

  • Bleeding Control Instruction Card

  • Emergency Survival Blanket (52" x 84")

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Coyote, Black, or Red

What others are saying?:

As of writing, nothing on the Primary Arms website

Link to other reviews:

As of writing, I found no reviews

Price point:

MSRP = $139.99

Retail =

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Includes all essential trauma kit needs

  • Tear away pouch

  • Quick access

Cons:

  • External way of holding tourniquet 

Score:  8.50 Great

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Expo Arms / Forward Controls extended Keymo single chamber brake

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  Expo Arms, in collaboration with Forward Controls, introduced an extended muzzle brake for use with certain Dead Air silencers. This brake uses the “Keymo” mounting option and is for use on .223/5.56 suppressors, but it will also work on any .223/5.56 AR style rifle as just a normal muzzle brake.

  The extended Keymo muzzle brake has 1 port or chamber. Don’t let the 1 port fool you, as the muzzle brake works very well at reducing recoil. Because it’s for use with .223/5.56, it is threaded for the standard ½-28 found on those rifles. Expo/FC’s gave the brake a .30 caliber bore to reduce some noise. They also gave the ports a flat profile. The flat profile directs gasses straight to the side, so that people behind, and to the side of the shooter get less noise and concussion. Being that it is a muzzle brake, it is still fairly loud. 

Top view

  Having the Keymo mounting surface makes it useful for those with certain Dead Air suppressors. The Keymo system mounts the suppressor on a quick on/off taper system. The taper helps repeat a consistent bore to suppressor mount, along with making a tight seal. An advantage to using this type of muzzle brake, with a suppressor, is that the muzzle brake will reduce the forces against the blast baffle inside the suppressor. I however, do not have a Keymo suppressor, so I didn’t get to try this part out.

Bottom view

  Even if you don’t have a suppressor, the Keymo muzzle brake is useful for other reasons. Since this is an “extended” muzzle brake, it is long enough to take a 13.9” barrel and make it 16”. Of course for legal reasons, the muzzle brake must be pinned and welded, unless it is going on a pistol or SBR. Expo/FC already machined in a hole for the pin, if one chooses this route. 

  I have been using the single chamber brake on a 16” AR. Yes, it adds a little bit of length, but it didn’t seem to bother me any. I was really surprised at how well the single port did it’s job. The brake made the rifle shoot flat. I can shoot the AR quite fast with this Keymo muzzle brake. If they made this brake without the Keymo mounting, I would consider using it on a 13.9” barrel that needed a pinned and welded brake. 

  The Expo Arms Keymo brake is only available at Primary Arms. Not that this is a problem, as Primary Arms has a lot of quality gear. The Expo Arms/FCD Keymo brake is top notch, even if you don’t have the Dead Air suppressor to use it with. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Extended length muzzle brake for use with the Dead Air Keymo mounting system

Target Market:

Those wanting a Keymo brake that when pinned will make a 13.9” barrel extend to a legal 16”

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 2.7" Overall length

  • Single chamber design

  • Pin and weld to 13.9" barrels to meet 16" requirements

  • 1/2x28 threaded for 5.56/.223

  • .30 cal bore to reduce blast

  • Dead Air Keymo mount

  • 4140 steel

  • Properly heat treated

  • Salt bath nitride finish

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

none

What others are saying?:

5/5 stars at Primary Arms

QUALITY PIECE OF KIT

Just received this Expo Arms / FCD muzzle device and installed it today. First I would like to note that when torqued to spec on my barrel, no shims we’re needed as the device properly indexed off the bat! Second, the quality of materials and finish seem to be on par with Dead Air’s own devices. Third I’d like to state that the overall length of this device makes it cross-compatible with both Dead Air’s KeyMo and KeyMicro mounting systems! Will be putting a lot of rounds through this device in the future to see how it will hold up.

Link to other reviews:

Nothing found

Price point:

MSRP = $110.00

Retail = $89.99

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms

Our Rating: 

Pros:

  • Extremely effective

  • Extended to make a legal 16” from a 13.9” barrel, when pinned and welded

  • Keymo mounting

Cons:

  • Loud

  • Price

Score:  8.50 Great

Favorite Link: Walker Defense Research

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Primary Arms SLx 1-6x24 ACSS 22lr

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  Primary Arms may have come out with the perfect 22lr scope. It’s their SLx 1-6x24 with a second focal plane ACSS 22lr reticle. Since there are so many 10/22’s and AR22’s around, the 1-6 seemed like a great all around optic for these platforms. 

  The SLx 1-6 has a lot of features packed into a $290 scope. First up is the 1-6x power. The 1x lets you use the scope like it was a red dot or pism, more like a circle dot style because of the ACSS reticle. Is it a true 1x like a red dot? Not really, It’s pretty darn close. Anything closer than 10 yards is ever so slightly magnified. Not enough to cause any weird problems, just a little noticeable at close ranges. The 1x didn’t cause any problems for me shooting with both eyes open. The 6x will let you see targets farther away. The 6x is fine for certain targets and gives a good magnification, especially if you aren’t looking for precision shooting. In typical 1-6x fashion, the SLx uses a 30mm tube and a 24mm objective lens. It also uses ½ MOA click adjustments for windage and elevation. The clicks are nice and audible with decent detents stopping them.

  Where the SLx 1-6 really shines, is the ACSS 22lr reticle. This reticle is a horse shoe style with a center aiming dot. At 6x, the reticle has a 1 MOA dot and the outer part of the horseshoe is 8.6 MOA. The reticle also has ranging and a Bullet Drop Compensator (BDC). The BDC is calculated to work at 6x, since the SLx is a Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticle. The reticle therefore stays the same size throughout the magnification range. Just zero your 22lr at 25 or 50 yards using the center dot. Then the BDC has marks at 100, 125, 150, 175, and 200yds. It also has 5 MPH wind, or moving target, holds at the respective ranges. These holds are just an estimation and really depend on the ammunition used. I found they were a little off, even with some pretty fast 22lr ammunition. Just try them out first, so you know about where they shoot with your ammo. One can also “true” the scope to the ammo you use, which I haven’t done yet, but will be. Primary Arms can help you with this if you can’t figure it out, they have great tech support. The reticle and BDC can also be illuminated red. There is a brightness knob on the left side of the scope. This knob also houses the CR2032 battery. There are eleven brightness settings, including ones that can be seen in bright sunny daylight. The clicks on the brightness knob are pretty good, you can definitely feel each brightness setting as you turn to them. Off to the right of the reticle, is a ranging bar, which is also calibrated to the 6x magnification setting. It, however, does not illuminate, but It does let you range objects like cans, bottles, clay pigeons, and even small varmints. 

  I’ve found a few things I really like about the SLx 1-6, and a couple I don’t care for. The optic is really clear and bright, especially for the price. But, it also has very unforgiving eye relief. Yes the eye relief at 1x isn’t bad, but at 6x, it really gets limiting. At 6x, it can get fuzzy around the edge if you are not in the perfect eye relief spot. I like the size of the power adjustment knob. It even has a little bump to help aid in turning. But, the knob is pretty stiff, which makes it hard to use. I would like to see a larger bump, or maybe a removable lever that goes on the adjustment knob, to make turning it easier and quicker. The SLx 1-6 also weighs in at a little over a pound, which isn’t bad, but since it’s a dedicated 22lr scope, I’d like it a little lighter. One of the coolest features, in this Primary Arms optic line, is the extra battery storage in the windage adjustment cap. It even comes with an extra 2032 already in the cap!

  For a plinking or fast hunting scope, the Primary Arms SLx 1-6x 22lr is great. Yes, it has a few slight downfalls, but nothing that can’t be overlooked for the price. I really liked the clarity and the ACSS 22lr reticle. The center dot and horse shoe make using the SLx 1-6 extremely fast. Also, the BDC reticle can be useful for quick target changes. The Primary Arms SLX 1-6 is a decent scope that fits my criteria for a fast 22lr optic. Go check out the SLx line of optics at Primary Arms, they are good little optic for the price.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

1-6 optic with .22lr ACSS reticle

Target Market:

Those wanting a low power variable optic, with BDC drops, for a 22lr

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Second focal plane ACSS reticle designed for .22LR

  • Red illumination with 11 brightness settings

  • BDC accurate at 6x magnification

  • 1-6x total magnification

  • Uses one CR2032 battery

  • Single piece 6063 aluminum construction

  • Hardcoat anodized matte black finish

  • Fully multi coated lenses

  • 1/2 MOA adjustments

  • Extra battery holder in windage cap

  • Eye Relief: Low: 3.50 in / High: 3.30

  • Field View - Low: 110.00 ft / High: 19.30 ft

  • Objective Diameter: 24mm

  • Tube Diameter: 30mm

  • Weight: 16.9 Oz

  • Comes with Flip-up lens covers

  • Lifetime warranty

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

None

What others are saying?:

5 out of 5 stars @PrimaryArms 

MY NEW FAVORITE 22LR SCOPE

This is by far the best 22LR Scope I've put on my S&W M&P 15-22 and I've played around with some very nice Optics on my rifle including night vision. Primary Arms makes the only scope that I know of with this much Ballistic Data for a 22LR Rifle and once you have it sighted in all the hold over dots are right on the money. It really makes shooting different size targets out to 200 yards so easy. The glass in this scope is so crystal clear and it's something you normally only find in optics at a much higher price point. The # 10 - 11 power settings are very bright and it's easy to see that red reticle in the heaviest of sunlight but you really don't even need it as everything is etched in the glass when the power is off and it's just as easy to see. To put it simply, if you're like me and bought a .22lr Rifle just to have fun with and you don't have the Primary Arms SLx 1-6x24mm SFP Rifle Scope Gen III - Illuminated ACSS-22LR then you're really missing out.

Link to other reviews:

As of writing, nothing was found on the Gen III

Price point:

MSRP = $289.99

Retail = Same

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms

Our Rating: 

Pros:

  • Full illuminated reticle

  • Daylight bright

  • Clear, especially for $290

  • Hold over marks

  • Extra battery holder in elevation cap

Cons:

  • Battery Life, yes I left it on and it doesn’t have “AutoLive”

  • Second Focal Plane

  • Eye relief is a little limiting

Score: 7.50 Good

Favorite Link:  Walker Defense

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Primary Arms SLx 1x Prism

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  I was looking around for a prism sight to replace one of my red dots on an AR rifle. I was tired of the flared out dot due to my astigmatism. So when the chance came along to get behind the Primary Arms SLx 1x prism, I was literally a kid in a candy store. The Primary arms SLx worked great as the red dot replacement.

  The SLx 1x prism had all the features I wanted in a true 1 power optic. For one, it was a prism sight. Therefore it has an etched reticle, like most magnified optics. I really like this as a feature, it takes away the burst that red dots have for me, and it gives an actual reticle, even when not illuminated by the battery. I’ll get to the actual reticle later. The SLx’s reticle illumination is red, but green is also an option. Another feature that I wanted was good eye relief. Since it’s not a red dot style optic, eye relief is important. The SLx has a stated 2-6” of eye relief. But it really feels like more. I can get right up on the optic or back off even more than the 6”s and still get a good sight picture, so much so that it feels very much like looking through a red dot optic.

  Primary Arms gave the SLx 1x prism their ACSS Cyclops gen II reticle. The ACSS (Advanced Combined Sighting System) Cyclops is a horseshoe style etched reticle with a chevron, think triangle, in the middle. The round horseshoe part gives extremely fast target acquisition, especially for close up targets. It is also about the size of a 00 buck pattern at 25 yds. The chevron then takes over for precise aiming. You can also use the chevron like you would a red dot, if up close. The top point of the chevron is where you would zero your rifle. This point is also where you get pretty precise aiming by just putting the point on the target. The zero depends on what barrel length and caliber you are using (see picture). With a 16” 5.56 barrel, it would be 100 yds. The inner point of the chevron is now a bullet drop compensator. So with the same 16” barrel, this would be for 300 yds. Then the bottom part of the chevron would be 400 yds. The BDC is just a close estimation, since it also depends on ammunition type and the height at which the SLx is mounted. There is also range estimation built into the SLx. It uses a 5’10” tall or 18” wide object for range estimation. When sighting in, the SLx has 1 MOA clicks for both the windage and elevation adjustments. The clicks are very positive. The adjusting dial is recessed into the SLx’s housing so that the adjustments won’t be hit and knocked out of zero. It also makes for a smoother look. Even though the 1 MOA adjustments worked fine, since the SLx has the precise chevron aiming point, I would have liked to see more accurate adjustments, maybe more like ¼ MOA, or even ½ MOA.  

  Illumination comes from a CR2032 battery that rides inside the brightness knob. The SLx has 13 brightness settings. The highest are “daylight bright”, and the lowest 3 are for night vision. Yes, the “daylight bright” does illuminate the reticle in bright sunlight. It’s not quite as bright as a quality red dot, but you can still see that it is a brighter red. My biggest complaint about the SLx is it’s mushy and hard to turn brightness knob. The click between levels just suck, plus it’s hard to get the dial to turn to them. If it had better “clicks” I wouldn’t complain as much about the stiffness. But, on the other side of that is the awesome “Autolive” function. This is a motion activated auto on function. After a certain time of no motion, the illumination will turn off. Then, when it gets moved, even just a little, the reticle turns back on to the last brightness setting it was on. The Autolive works fantastic, see this as to how well it works: YouTube Video. Because of the Autolive function, battery life is greatly extended. In fact, Primary Arms states the battery life to be 29,000 hours on the medium setting! Remember, if the battery dies, you still get the advantage of having an etched reticle, it’s just no longer illuminated. 

  The SLx gives a very clear window in which to look through. I found this prism sight to be way clearer than I expected from a $250 optic. It has a pretty good Field of View at 76.5 ft @ 100yds. It has a very forgiving eyebox and even has a diopter to focus in the reticle for your eyes. Even when looking through the SLx at odd angles, I was still able to get a good sight picture. 

  The Primary Arms SLx 1x prism comes with a variety of mounting options, all of which are included in the package. The SLx comes with 4 spacers and a picatinny rail mounting base. 3 of these spacers are cantilevered, the other 1 is straight. This lets the SLx mount right above the rail, with no spacers, or up super high off the rail with the straight spacer plus the high cantilever one, and anything in between (see picture). Of course all mounting screws and wrenches are included to swap the heights around. Oddly enough, the SLx can also be mounted to a carry handle of an AR. All these height options let you tune the height, so if you are using a magnifier or back up iron sights, you can get it just how you like it. Yes, the SLx prism will work with those too.

This is not on full brightness, more like around setting 7 of 13, in full sun

  Primary Arms did a fantastic job with the SLx 1x prism. It does almost everything I wanted it to do, okay, it does everything I need it to do. The clarity is great, it’s bright, has auto on/off, good battery life, and even works without the illumination. The 1x appears to be a true 1 power to me. Everything close up and far away is clear and size appropriate. Shooting with both eyes open is just like shooting with a non magnified red dot, plus no starburst. Having the ability to mount the SLx at various heights is also nice. I like this optic so much that I might even mount it on my “go to” rifle. Go check out the SLx 1x prism at Primary Arms.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Etched reticle micro prism sight

Target Market:

Anyone wanting a solid 1x optic 

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • ACSS Cyclops Gen II reticle

  • 13 Illumination settings including Daylight Bright

  • 3 Night Vision Settings:  Low, Med & Flood 

  • AutoLive motion-sensing on/off battery saving technology 

  • 29,000 Hour battery life at medium setting

  • Includes 8 Mounting Height Options (incl. Absolute Co-witness & Lower 1/3 heights)

  • Length: 2.48”  

  • Weight: 7.6 oz with height riser (only 5.5 oz without riser)

  • Etched Reticle

  • Diopter for precision reticle clarity

  • Eye Relief Range:  2” to 6” with 3.6” for optimum Field of View

  • Field of View: 76.5 ft @ 100 yds

  • 120 MOA total Adjustments

  • 1 click = 1 MOA

  • Fully Multi-Coated optics

  • IP67 Waterproof, nitrogen purged for fog resistance, and dust proof

  • Uses (1) CR2032 Battery (Included)

  • Lens Covers included

  • Backed by Primary Arms Lifetime Warranty

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Green reticle or FDE housing

What others are saying?:

4 out 5 stars @PrimaryArms 

MAY BE MY NEW FAVORITE OPTIC!

Put this on an AR15 in 5.56 and the performance was fantastic. The included mounting system is excellent, the reticle is outstanding and the field of view for such a small optic is surprising. I like the etched reticle and the brightness settings are perfect for all lighting conditions. Up until now my favorite optic was the Trijicon MRO but at half the price red dot is hard to beat. Seems just as if not more so rugged that much more expensive options. The only drawback and it's a small one is the 1 MOA adjustment increments which could make it difficult to really dial it in at range but out to 50 yards on my rifle it was dead on.

Link to other reviews:

The Firearm Blog

Price point:

MSRP = $249.99

Retail = Same

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • AutoLive

  • Super Clear

  • Etched ACSS Cyclops reticle

  • Daylight bright

  • A lot of mounting height options

  • Forgiving eye relief

Cons:

  • 1 MOA click adjustments

  • Mushy brightness clicks

  • Tight brightness knob

Score: 8.50 Great

Favorite Link:  Walker Defense

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Primary Arms GLX 2x prism w/ACSS Gemini 9mm reticle

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  When Primary Arms offered to send their new GLx 2x prism sight out for review, I jumped at the chance. I had been looking for something to put on my 16” pistol caliber carbine, and this sounded perfect, especially since it was specifically designed for a 9mm PCC. This prism scope uses Primary Arms’ popular ACSS reticle with daylight bright illumination. The GLx prism is something different, that works quite well.

 The GLx 2x prism has numerous features. All of which make it a great optic. The first is the ACSS Gemini reticle. This reticle was designed for the 9mm Luger cartridge in a pistol caliber carbine. The simple explanation of the ACSS reticle is that it’s an upside down horseshoe shaped circle with a center triangle aiming point. It also has ballistic drop compensation (BDC) built into the reticle. Below the reticle is a target ranging ladder. The horseshoe also acts as an 8.6 mph lead when shooting moving targets. I do wish the reticle had some sort of hash marks, on the horseshoe, to keep it lined up with the aiming point, when leading a target. The bullet drops and ranging are best described by Primary Arms’ diagrams. Sighting adjustments are done with capped turrets. Once unscrewed, the caps can be turned over to adjust the windage and elevation in 0.25” MOA increments.

  Primary Arms uses multi coated low dispersion glass in the GLx. This glass gives the optic great clarity. I found that the view through the GLx is super bright and clear. The etched reticle is also very clear and defined. This is probably due to an adjustable diopter for getting the reticle perfectly clear and adjusted to your eyes. Because the GLx is a prism sight, there is eye relief. Primary Arms states the optimal eye relief is 3.7” from the optic. I found that the GLx is very forgiving in the eye relief department. I get a good sight picture with my eye only an inch away and all the way out at around 6 inches of eye relief. The reticle is still very clear and usable at both extremes.

  The GLx’s illuminated reticle has 11 brightness settings. The first 3 can be used with night vision devices. The highest 2 are what is called “daylight bright”, and are bright enough to be used in bright sunlight. Yes, the reticle shines a bright red, even in direct sunlight. However only the horseshoe and aiming triangle are illuminated. The BDC and ranging portions are not. Because of the nature of prism sights, if you have an astigmatism, the illumination will not “starburst” out like a normal red dot will. My only complaint about the illumination is the adjustment dial, the detent clicks are mushy feeling and not crisp at all.

  Battery life can be a concern for some people. Primary Arms gave the GLx what they call “AUTOLIVE” motion sensing technology. This greatly improves battery life from the single CR2032 battery. How you might ask? Well, it automatically shuts off the illumination after 3 minutes of inactivity and turns it back on when motion is detected. They say this gives a battery life of approximately 20,000 hours on the medium settings. The Autolive works extremely well. Everytime I pick up the rifle, the reticle is on. I tested the off function also, and it does turn the reticle off after around 3 minutes of sitting idle on a bench. I have left the reticle turned on for most of its life here, without any problems. Plus, if the battery does go dead, the GLx still has an etched reticle for you to use.

  Some people might wonder why the GLx prism comes in a fixed 2 power. The fixed 2x gives a little better target identification. But it also still gives the shooter an option to shoot with both eyes open. It barely took me any time to get used to it. I found the GLx to be just as quick, transitioning from target to target, as my previously mounted red dot. Having twice the magnification, plus the ACSS reticle, made the longer shots easier also. I was consistently hitting a 12” steel plate at 200 yards using the BDC portion of the reticle. For close targets, I just put the triangle on the target and pressed the trigger. If you want more precision, on close targets, one can use the top point of the triangle. 

  The GLx sight comes with all the mounting hardware needed. For one, it comes with three spacers to get the correct optic height for your carbine. It also uses standard mini ACOG bases, so if you don’t like the supplied mounting options, you can choose someone else's mount. Primary Arms also supplies various screws for the mounting of the spacers and for other styles of mounts. A little tube of Vibra-Tite (thread locker), wrenches, and a cleaning cloth are also included.

  I wouldn’t consider the GLx 2x prism to be on the large size for this type of optic. It leans toward the smaller side, but still larger than most of the red dots of today. The GLx is not a red dot, but I am using them as a comparison for size. Total length comes in at 5.3 inches. The total width is 2.3” inches because of the battery and brightness adjustment. Otherwise the tube is about 1.5 inches in diameter. Total height without any spacers is roughly 2 inches. It does weigh 11 ounces, so about twice what their 1x micro prism weighs, but the same as some other 1x prism sights. I thought the size and weight were about right for all the features the GLx has to offer.

  The Primary Arms GLx 2x prism works very well for its intended purpose on a 9mm PCC. I really like the AUTOLIVE feature. The 2x is a good all around magnification for a 9mm rifle. The ACSS reticle is clear, easy to use, and packed with features. I would definitely check out Primary Arms’ optic line. They did a very good job on the GLx with the Gemini reticle.


Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

2x prism optic with horseshoe style ACSS Gemini reticle

Target Market:

PCC shooters that want something more than a red dot

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • ACSS etched reticle

  • 2x fixed power

  • 11 brightness settings

  • Night Vision setting

  • Daylight bright red illumination 

  • AutoLive motion activation

  • 20,000 hr battery life

  • Uses 1 CR 2032 battery

  • 5.3” long

  • Weight - 11.0 ounces

  • 3.7” optimal eye relief

  • 0.25 MOA adjustments

  • FOV - 42ft @ 100yds

  • Low, Med., & High spacers included

  • Mini ACOG mounting interface

  • IP67 waterproof - 1 meter for 30 minutes

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

5.56/.308/5.45 BDC, 7.62x39/300 BO BDC, 

What others are saying?:

5/5 stars @ primaryarms.com

SHOCKINGLY AMAZING OPTIC

For a CZ Scorpion, this optic is perfect. As a member of the old eyes club, if its not a Prism sight, I can't see as clear as I need to, so red dots are off the table. I have tried many red dots, and they have a snowflake image when I look through them and they are 1X, so a 2X is much better for my needs. This optic is extremely clear. This is not quite a Trijicon, but at 1/3rd the price and with the ACSS Gemini 9mm Reticle, this is a fantastic optic, especially for PCC's. When they come out with a 3X GLX, I will buy it too.

Link to other reviews:

Nothing found on the 9mm version

Price point:

MSRP = $369.99

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • AutoLive activation

  • Battery life

  • Clear optics

  • Etched reticle

  • ACSS reticle

Cons:

  • Brightness knob detents are mushy

  • Has Eye Relief, unlike a red dot

  • Weight

Score: 8.00 Great

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Primary Arms is a sponsor of the Gun and Gear review podcast. This has no bearing on the review. It was rated on its merits and not the sponsorship.

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Primary Arms - Ultimate Weapon Light (Gen 2)

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Primary Arms - UWL

By Eric Janhunen

I've been in the market for a rifle mounted light option for awhile now.  After checking the usual suspects for something affordable, I Primary Arms - UWL 2went to the forums and that’s where I found the Primary Arms UWL (Ultimate Weapons Light).  The light comes with an integrated picatinny rail mount, multiple o-rings to seal things up and tight machine work.  I was also happy to see Streamlight batteries included to bring me the power needed to operate that light.  When I first saw this, my first thoughts were that this is a bit on the big side when you configure the housing to hold all 3 battery cells.  However, that was not the case.  The light may be a bit on the larger side, but not so much as to causing it to be a hinderance.  A small issue that I discovered is that I've yet to find a tape switch holder that will hold the switch to my rail.  This has caused me to improvise a bit.  From my research, I found that the rear housing and tailcap is outsourced. Primary Arms made the flashlight head and battery cell extension tube.  So sorry guys, this is not a 100% made USA product.  On the other hand, this sucker is bright at 450 lumens!  The UWL features one high power LED inside of an aluminum polished bezel flashlight head.  On a 16” bull barrel AR, there is slight muzzle shadow but it’s not enough to be an issue.  I find the beam to be sharp and very solid.  This makes the light comparable to some higher-end lights that I've used in the past.  With that being said, I think this is a great option for someone who wants to light up their life ( ha-ha) and not break the bank in doing so.  Primary Arms is on a lot of the AR and builder forums, so it’s clear that they listen to the customer base.  Overall, I have a feeling that these lights can only get better from an already solid system.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:  A value light that is a real contender!

Target Market:  A weekend warrior’s rifle to duty guns.

FNBs:  (Features & Benefits of this product)

  • High Lumens for the price point.
  • Very clean machining work on the housing.
  • Aluminum reflecting bezel instead of plastic.
  • Configurable from a 3 cell Cr123A body, to a 2 cell smaller body.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  You have two options for colors; Flat dark earth and black.  They also offer to bundle the light with a tape switch for another $19.

What others are saying?:  YouTube

Price point:

MSRP - $89.99 Retail - $89.99

I need it now! Availability:  Primary Arms ships  these products out extremely fast.  Primary Arms

Our Rating:  It’s a great little light! I’ve been to the range quite a bit and don’t take it easy on my guns, so far its held up great!

+ Cheap! With the tape switch this is a touch over 100 bucks shipped + Bright (450 Lumens) + Waterproof/shockproof + One year warranty

- Made overseas - Tape switch is on the large side and wont fit most rail switch mounts - Housing and head on the large side with the 3 cell configuration

Score: 8.080

 

 

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