March 22nd, 2023
11:56 runtime
In todays test, I review some of Primary Arms MicroPrism optics.
The two on the test bench today are the SLx 1X MicroPrism and SLx 3X MicroPrism.
These optics were a fantastic addition to Primary Arms ever-expanding line of optics.
Optics are often the first accessory added to a modern rifle. Primary Arms offers a range of affordable products including these MicroPrisms reviewed here.
These Primary Arms MicroPrisms are part of the SLx optics line.
According to Primary Arms, the SLx optics are built with a reputation for innovation, reliability and value.
All Primary Arms SLx optics undergo rigorous field testing during development to best serve you in any environment.
Prism optics like these MicroPrisms are perfect for shooters with astigmatisms. These optics remain crisp and clear due to the etched reticle.
Build Quality
The SLx 1X MicroPrism has a minimal form factor.
Frankly, its something thats not much larger than the body of an Aimpoint T2 red dot.
The body feels sturdy and has 1 MOA adjustment for windage and elevation.
These optics are incredibly small. So much so that the 3X is barely larger than the 1X prism.
Both can be adjusted easily with a flathead screwdriver or similar object.
The optic has 120 MOA in elevation and windage adjustment.
On the opposite side of the body is the battery compartment and illumination adjustment for the reticle.
These optics have numerous brightness settings, including night vision and bright daylight settings.
The optics rigorous field testing included testing with more than 7,000 rounds fired while mounted on a .308-chambered rifle.
For an optic with a micro-sized body like this, thats a highly impressive feat.
The SLx 3X is a lot of the same when we talk about the build quality.
The SLx 1X doesn’t have unlimited eye relief like a red dot. However, it might as well have since the eye box is so large.
It has all the same controls in the same spots, but on a larger scale.
The optic is still in micro size, as its name suggests.
All in all, its probably a bit larger than a Trijicon MRO.
With these ACSS reticles in the MicroPrisms, we were able to shoot and hit IPSC targets out to 300 yards.
This optic and the 1X both have threaded tubes that accept an anti-reflection grid known as kill flash.
Kill flashes for the 1X and 3X can be found on the Primary Arms website.
Once you find the desired height, the manual recommends that you tighten the screws to 25-30 in.-lbs.
The adjustments for these optics are fantastic, with audible and felt clicks for each adjustment. The 1X adjusts in 1 MOA increments, while the 3X adjusts in .25 MOA increments.
The cross bolts on the removable base should be tightened to 55-60 in.-lbs.
with a T25 Torx and a blue thread lock applied.
Specifically, the 1X features the ACSS Cyclops Gen II reticle.
The 1X reticle has different ranging distances for5.56mm, .308, 7.39x39mm, 12 Gauge 1 oz.
slugs, and 300 Blackout (both super- and subsonic).
The circle part of the reticle represents a shotgun pattern at 25 yards.
The SLx 3X MicroPrism has a reticle that is similar to the ACSS found in the SLx 1X.
However, the reticle found in the SLx 3X is the ACSS RAPTOR 5.56 Y.
We shot it on the Hellion, chambered in 5.56 with a 16 barrel.
We zeroed the bullpup at 100 yards for this caliber and barrel length.
Then, the bottom hashes go to 400, 500 and 600 yards.
Laterally from each of these hashes are dots for wind holds at those respective distances.
The inner dots represent a 5 MPH wind hold, and the second one represents a 10 MPH hold.
Each of the hashes can also be used to range a target.
The hashes measure 18 wide at their respective distance.
Performance
I first started with the 1X on the range and was delighted with its performance.
As you might have imagined, the 1X has a very generous eye box.
Its not unlimited like a red dot, but in all honestly, it might as well be.
The field of view is fantastic also, with it being able to see 76.5 ft at 100 yards.
When illuminated to the max, I can confirm that the reticle is daylight-bright.
The etched reticle is fantastic, crisp and clean, and extremely easy to shoot accurately with it.
Its extremely easy to pick a point and aim with the tip of the chevron.
The adjustments of this little scope are also fantastic.
They feature nice audible and felt clicks.
The adjustments are relatively easy, but hard enough that accidental changes are unlikely.
We really enjoyed using this small but robust optic.
The SLx 3X MicroPrism proved to be just as fantastic as the 1X, but in its own right.
As weve mentioned, one of the best parts is that its micro-sized.
The 3X is crystal clear with a great etched reticle that has illumination capable of daylight brightness.
Conclusion
These optics are great in nearly every way.
The price point for the 1X is $269.99, while the 3X is $319.99.
These MicroPrisms are at a very competitive price point, especially considering the quality.
Im glad Primary Arms continues to innovate and update its line of optics to bring new solutions to customers.
These are great additions that fill a void in the optics community.
I hope Primary Arms continues to innovate for results like this, and I suspect they will.
