5 Best Prism Scopes

Prism scopes represent a compelling alternative to traditional rifle scopes, offering shooters a unique blend of compactness, durability, and optical performance.

With their fixed magnification and simple reticle designs, prism scopes excel in fast-paced shooting scenarios, providing quick target acquisition and reliable performance in various environments.

Whether for tactical operations, hunting expeditions, or recreational shooting, the best prism scopes combine rugged construction, superior optical clarity, and intuitive functionality to meet the demands of discerning shooters.

In this article, we'll explore the best prism scopes on the market, highlighting their key features, advantages, and considerations to help you make an informed decision for your shooting needs.

Is a Prism Scope Better than a Standard Scope?

Whether a prism scope is superior to a standard scope hinges on the shooter's unique requirements and preferences, as well as the intended shooting context.

While prism scopes typically offer compactness and lightweight advantages ideal for tactical or lightweight hunting rifles, standard scopes with variable magnification excel in versatility, optical performance, and long-range precision shooting.

Prism scopes may boast simplicity and durability with fewer moving parts, making them suitable for rugged conditions, but standard scopes often deliver superior optical clarity and brightness, especially at higher magnification levels.

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Best Prism Scopes

1) Vortex Spitfire 1x Prism Scope

Specifications

• Reticle: DRT MOA
• Material: Aluminum Alloy Chassis
• Magnification: 1 x
• Eye Relief: 3.7 in
• Battery Life: 250 - 3000 hours
• Weight: 11.2 oz
• Gun Make: AR Platform
• Length: 4 in

The Vortex Spitfire 1x Prism Scope is the best Prism scope, it features Fully Multi-Coated optics,compact Single-Piece Aluminum Alloy Chassis,Hard Anodized Finish,Green, Red and DRT MOA Reticle among other features.

Crafted with precision, the Spitfire 1x Prism Scope boasts a fully multi-coated lens system, ensuring maximum light transmission for crystal-clear images even in low-light conditions.

Its prism-based design delivers unparalleled optical quality while allowing for the incorporation of a unique DRT (Dual Ring Tactical) reticle, etched directly onto the prism. This ensures consistent point-of-aim at all times, whether you choose red or green illumination from the five intensity levels available.

Built to withstand the harshest environments, this scope is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. O-ring seals prevent moisture, dust, and debris from compromising performance, while nitrogen gas purging ensures fogproof clarity in any weather condition. The rugged construction can handle recoil and impact with ease, thanks to its shockproof design.

The Spitfire 1x Prism Scope features a single-piece chassis, making it compact, lightweight, and incredibly durable. Its hard anodized finish not only adds to its durability but also reduces glare, ensuring stealthy operation in the field.

With an operating temperature range from -22 degrees to +122 degrees Fahrenheit, this scope is ready for action in any climate. Plus, its variable mount heights allow for customization, with options for both lower 1/3 co-witness and 30mm mounted heights.

Another incredible feature is the battery life. With a typical battery life of 250 hours at maximum brightness and a staggering 3,000 hours at minimum brightness, you can rely on this scope to perform when it matters most.

Advantages

• Rapid Target Acquisition with 1x magnification and DRT MOA reticle perfect for close-quarters engagements.
• Red or green illumination with five intensity levels for optimal visibility in any lighting condition.
• Aluminum Alloy Chassis construction to withstand the rigors of the field,
• Shockproof design and hard anodized finish
• Waterproof and fogproof design
• Compact and Lightweight

Disadvantages

• While the battery life is impressive, the scope does require batteries for illumination, which could be a concern in prolonged use without spares.

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2) Burris AR-332 Prism 3x32mm Scope

Specifications

• Brightness Settings: 10
• Eye Relief: 2.5 in
• Length: 5.29 in
• Weight: 14.2 oz
• Brightness Settings: 10
• Eye Relief: 2.5 in
• Material: Aluminum
• Magnification: 3 x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 32 mm

This Burris AR-332 Prism 3x32mm Scope is made to meet the demands of competitive shooters, law enforcement personnel, and military operators.

To start us on the features is the features is the fast-action ballistic CQ reticle which is optimized for rapid target acquisition and engagement. The circular center provides ultra-fast engagement at close distances, while smaller reticle dots offer trajectory compensation out to an impressive 600 yards for both 5.56 and 7.62 cartridges.

With three reticle color settings (red, green, and black) and five red and five green illuminated settings, you have unparalleled flexibility to adapt to any lighting condition. The illuminated reticle reduces time to get on target and dramatically increases accuracy in darkness, ensuring you never miss a shot.

The rotary illumination control dial offers 10 settings to match any light condition, while the reticle's black color setting is available even without battery power, providing peace of mind in any situation.

With a fixed 3x magnification and a 32mm objective, this scope delivers bright, crisp images, even in low-light conditions, thanks to its index-matched, Hi-Lume multicoating.

Built to withstand the harshest conditions, the AR-332 features rugged construction that can handle recoil, abuse, and all types of weather. Three Picatinny rail mounting points provide stable, secure accessory mounting, while the option to remove the bottom rail mount allows for mounting to an AR carry handle.

Nitrogen-filled body tubes prevent internal fogging in the cold and rain, ensuring clear visibility at all times. Precision-gauged, hand-fitted internal assemblies maintain a consistent point of impact, regardless of shock and vibration, giving you confidence in every shot.

Backed by the Burris Forever Warranty, you can trust in the durability and reliability of the AR-332 for years to come. Plus, its compatibility with the AR-QD mount with quick-detach design makes attachment and removal a breeze, adding to its versatility and ease of use.

Advantages

• Fast Target Acquisition with the Fast-Action Ballistic CQ Reticle
• Three reticle color settings (red, green, and black) and five illuminated settings for unparalleled flexibility
• Enhanced Accuracy
• Built to withstand recoil, abuse, and adverse weather conditions
• Clear Optics , the32mm objective lens, coupled with index-matched, Hi-Lume multicoating, delivers bright, crisp images with glare elimination, aiding in low-light performance and enhancing shot success rates.
• Three Picatinny rail mounting points provide stable and secure accessory mounting
• Compatibility with the AR-QD mount with quick-detach design offers easy attachment and removal.

Disadvantages

• Fixed 3x magnification may limit versatility in certain shooting scenarios that require variable magnification.

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3) Swampfox Blade 1x25mm Prism Scope

Specifications

• Reticle: CQB
• Length: 4 in
• Weight: 13 oz
• Gun Model: Universal
• Brightness Settings: 12
• Eye Relief: 3.8 in
• Magnification: 1 x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 25 mm

Next on the best prism scopes list is the Swampfox Blade 1x25mm Prism Scope, tailored specifically for home defense and law enforcement patrol rifle applications.

The scope features innovative bullet rise compensation, addressing the mechanical offset or height over bore phenomenon. With dedicated holds for 5, 10, and 15 yards distance on an AR-15 or similar platform, this scope ensures precise hits matching your point of aim, even at close ranges.

Equipped with red, green, or amber reticle illumination variants, including night vision compatible settings, the Blade 1x offers versatility for any lighting condition.

Its Shake 'N Wake motion-sensing illumination technology preserves battery life by shutting off after a period of inactivity, instantly resuming illumination upon the slightest movement.

The chemically etched reticle and fast-focus adjustable ocular lens provide a clear sight picture, accommodating shooters with imperfect vision or astigmatism. Even when used with a bright weapon light, the Blade's reticle won't wash out, ensuring visibility in critical moments.

Packed with premium features such as tough construction, premium glass with anti-reflective coatings, and a complete set of accessories including high-quality flip caps and the Honeycomb Anti-Reflective Device, the Blade 1x offers everything you need out of the box.

Despite its focus on close-quarters shooting, the Blade 1x doesn't compromise on quality, featuring the same excellent glass found in Swampfox's long-range precision optics. Its forgiving eye relief and generous exit pupil rival the target acquisition speed of red dots, making it lightning fast in acquiring targets.

Backed by Swampfox's 50,000 Round Guarantee, the Blade 1x is built to last, ensuring reliability and performance when it matters most.

Advantages

• Mission Specific Design for home defense and law enforcement patrol rifle applications
• Bullet Rise Compensation
• Available in red, green, or amber reticle illumination
• Shake 'N Wake Technology to Preserves battery life
• Premium Construction and Accessories
• Excellent glass with anti-reflective coatings for optimal light transmission and clarity
• Forgiving eye relief and a generous exit pupil

Disadvantages

• The Blade 1x is optimized for close-quarters shooting and may not be as versatile for long-range or multipurpose applications.

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4) Primary Arms SLx 3x MicroPrism Red Dot Sight

Specifications

• Reticle: ACSS RAPTOR 5.56 Y
• Eye Relief: 2.7 - 3 in
• Material: Aluminum
• Magnification: 3 x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 17 mm
• Mount Type: Picatinny
• Weight: 7.95 oz

Primary Arms SLx 3x MicroPrism Red Dot Sight combines the compact size of a microdot with the precision of a 3x magnified optic to make one of the best prism scopes.

The SLx 3x MicroPrism offers 13 illumination settings with AutoLive motion-sensing on/off technology and multiple night vision compatibility options.This optic is lighter and more compact than many red dot sights, yet it delivers crystal-clear glass and enhanced precision at distance.

Featuring an etched reticle with adjustable diopter, the SLx 3x MicroPrism ensures a clear, crisp reticle image, even for users with severe astigmatism.

With maximum illumination, the reticle is fully daylight bright, while three different NV-compatible settings accommodate low-light conditions. The AutoLive motion-sensing technology extends battery life by activating illumination only when needed, ensuring an exceptionally long runtime at any brightness setting.

Moreover, the SLx 3x MicroPrism includes a ruggedized mounting system with an industry-standard mini-prism footprint, guaranteeing reliability and zero retention through heavy use and adverse conditions. The mount offers eight different mounting heights and configurations out of the box, ensuring compatibility with any rifle system.

Advantages

• Compact and Lightweight
• Versatile Illumination Settings with 13 illumination settings
• AutoLive Motion-Sensing Technology
• Etched reticle with adjustable diopter provides for clear and crisp image
• The reticle is fully daylight bright, providing excellent visibility even in bright outdoor conditions, enhancing target acquisition speed and accuracy.
• Rugged Mounting System providing a secure and stable platform for the optic.
• Wide Field-of-View and Forgiving Eye Relief

Disadvantages

• Limited Magnification Range

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5) TRYBE Optics S.L.E.D 3x32mm Prism Scope

Specifications

• Reticle: 4 MOA Dot
• Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum
• Magnification: 3 x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 32 mm
• Brightness Settings: 11
• Eye Relief: 2.72 - 2.92 in
• Battery Life: 3000 Hours

The TRYBE Optics S.L.E.D 3x32mm Prism Scope is built for durability,with a 6061-T6 main body and components with hard coat anodizing for ruggedness and longevity even in the harshest conditions.

The scope is fully nitrogen purged and IP67 waterproof,making it dust-proof and capable of withstanding immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.

Designed to handle extreme recoil, the S.L.E.D Prism Scope is compatible with standard carry handle mounts and features accommodation for anti-reflection devices (ARD), further enhancing its versatility and adaptability to different shooting setups.

Featuring 11 red brightness settings, this scope ensures optimal visibility even in bright sunlight, allowing shooters to maintain a clear sight picture in any lighting condition. With a staggering 3,000 hours of battery life, you can rely on the S.L.E.D Prism Scope to perform reliably round after round.

The 32mm objective lens diameter provides excellent light transmission, ensuring bright and crisp images with enhanced clarity and detail. Additionally, the scope features a removable 1913 MIL STD top Picatinny rail, allowing for the attachment of micro reflex sights for added versatility.

Advantages

• 11 red brightness settings for optimal visibility
• Impressive 3,000 hours of battery life
• Versatile Mounting Options
• Constructed with 6061-T6 main body for durability
• Waterproof and Dust-Proof
• Designed for Extreme Recoil

Disadvantages

• Depending on the setup, the scope's weight may be heavier compared to other lightweight optics, which could affect firearm balance and handling, especially for users prioritizing portability and maneuverability.

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Next Read: Best Red dots for AR 15

Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Prism Scopes

Here are the factors to consider when choosing the best prism scopes, along with explanations for each factor:

Magnification Range

The magnification range of a prism scope dictates its versatility and suitability for different shooting scenarios. A wider magnification range provides flexibility for engaging targets at varying distances.

For close-quarters combat or fast target acquisition, a lower magnification is preferred, while for precision shooting at longer ranges, higher magnification may be necessary. It's essential to choose a magnification range that aligns with your intended shooting application and environment.

Reticle Design and Illumination

The reticle design and illumination options greatly influence target acquisition speed and accuracy. Prism scopes offer various reticle designs, from simple crosshairs to complex bullet drop compensating (BDC) reticles.

Additionally, illumination settings enhance reticle visibility in low-light conditions. Consider a reticle design that matches your shooting style and preferences, and ensure the scope offers adequate illumination options for different lighting environments.

Durability and Construction

The durability and construction quality of a prism scope are crucial for withstanding recoil, impact, and harsh environmental conditions. Look for scopes built with high-quality materials such as aircraft-grade aluminum and featuring rugged construction.

O-ring seals and nitrogen purging ensure waterproof and fogproof performance, enhancing durability and reliability in adverse weather conditions.

Optical Quality

Optical quality directly impacts the clarity, brightness, and resolution of the image seen through the scope. High-quality glass, multi-coated lenses, and precision engineering contribute to clear and crisp images with minimal distortion or aberrations.

Assess the optical quality of a prism scope by examining factors such as light transmission, image sharpness, and color fidelity to ensure optimal performance in various shooting scenarios.

Mounting Compatibility

The mounting compatibility of a prism scope determines how easily and securely it can be attached to your firearm. Consider the mounting system used by your rifle, whether it's a Picatinny rail, Weaver rail, or specific mounting interface. Ensure the scope is compatible with your firearm's mounting system to avoid compatibility issues and ensure a stable and secure attachment.

Size and Weight

The size and weight of a prism scope affect firearm balance, maneuverability, and portability. A compact and lightweight scope is ideal for rifles used in dynamic shooting situations or carried for extended periods.

However, balance these factors with the desired magnification range and optical performance to find a prism scope that offers the right combination of size, weight, and functionality for your needs.

Battery Life and Power Source

Prism scopes with illuminated reticles require batteries to power the illumination system. Consider the battery life and power source requirements of the scope, ensuring it offers sufficient runtime for your shooting sessions.

Additionally, opt for scopes with convenient battery access and easy-to-replace batteries to minimize downtime in the field.

Waterproof and Fogproof Performance

Waterproof and fogproof performance is essential for maintaining optical clarity and functionality in adverse weather conditions. Look for prism scopes with sealed construction and nitrogen purging to prevent water ingress and internal fogging.

These features ensure reliable performance in rain, snow, or humid environments, allowing you to shoot with confidence in any weather condition.

Warranty and Customer Support

Warranty coverage and customer support provided by the manufacturer offer reassurance and peace of mind regarding the quality and reliability of the prism scope.

Choose brands known for their excellent warranty policies and responsive customer support, ensuring prompt resolution of any issues or defects that may arise with the scope.

Read Also: 6 Best Holographic Sights for AR 15

Advantages of Prism Scopes

Overall, the compactness, durability, simplicity, and ease of use make prism scopes an attractive option for a wide range of shooting applications, from tactical operations to hunting and recreational shooting.

Prism scopes offer several advantages

1. Compact and Lightweight: Prism scopes are typically more compact and lightweight than traditional rifle scopes, making them ideal for firearms where minimizing weight and bulk is important, such as tactical rifles or lightweight hunting rifles. This compactness also contributes to improved maneuverability and ease of handling in tight or confined spaces.
2. Fixed Magnification: Many prism scopes feature a fixed magnification level, which eliminates the need for adjustment and simplifies the shooting process. This can be advantageous in fast-paced shooting scenarios where quick target acquisition is critical.
3. Durability: Prism scopes are known for their rugged construction and durability. They often have fewer moving parts than traditional rifle scopes, reducing the risk of mechanical failure or damage from recoil, shock, or impact. This makes them well-suited for use in demanding environments and adverse weather conditions.
4. Quick Target Acquisition: Prism scopes typically feature a simple and intuitive reticle design that allows for quick and easy target acquisition. This can be particularly beneficial in close-quarters combat or fast-moving target scenarios where split-second decisions are required.
5. Easier to Use with Both Eyes Open: Due to their design and typically generous eye relief, prism scopes are often easier to use with both eyes open compared to traditional rifle scopes. This enhances situational awareness and allows shooters to maintain a clear view of their surroundings while engaging targets.
6. Less Sensitive to Eye Position: Prism scopes are less sensitive to changes in eye position compared to traditional rifle scopes. This means that shooters can maintain a consistent sight picture even if their eye position shifts slightly, resulting in improved accuracy and shot placement.
7. Reduced Parallax: Prism scopes generally have less parallax error compared to traditional rifle scopes, particularly at closer ranges. This helps ensure that the reticle remains aligned with the target regardless of the shooter's head position, resulting in more accurate shots.

What are the Cons of a Prism Scope?

While prism scopes offer various advantages, they also have some drawbacks to consider:

1. Limited Magnification Range: Prism scopes typically have a fixed or limited magnification range compared to standard scopes with variable magnification. This can restrict versatility in engaging targets at different distances.
2. Eye Relief and Field of View: Prism scopes often have shorter eye relief and a narrower field of view compared to standard scopes, which may affect comfort and situational awareness, especially in fast-paced shooting scenarios.
3. Size and Weight: While generally more compact and lightweight than standard scopes, prism scopes may still add bulk and weight to the firearm, potentially impacting balance and maneuverability, particularly on lightweight rifles.
4. Optical Performance: Prism scopes may not offer the same level of optical performance, such as image clarity, brightness, and resolution, especially at higher magnification levels, compared to premium standard scopes.
5. Cost: While prism scopes can be more affordable than premium standard scopes, high-quality prism scopes with advanced features may still come at a significant cost, making them less accessible to budget-conscious shooters.
6. Limited Reticle Options: Prism scopes often have fewer reticle options compared to standard scopes, which may limit customization and adaptability to different shooting preferences and scenarios.
7. Mounting Options: Mounting options for prism scopes may be more limited compared to standard scopes, particularly if the firearm has specific mounting requirements or accessories.

Do Prism Scopes have Unlimited Eye Relief?

Prism scopes generally offer more generous eye relief compared to traditional rifle scopes, providing shooters with a comfortable shooting experience and greater flexibility in their shooting position.

While prism scopes typically have sufficient eye relief to accommodate various firearm setups and shooting scenarios, they do not offer unlimited eye relief. The specific eye relief distance varies depending on the design and specifications of the prism scope, with most models offering eye relief distances ranging from around 2 inches to 4 inches or more.

This ample eye relief allows shooters to maintain a safe distance from the scope while still obtaining a clear and full sight picture, minimizing the risk of scope eye injuries and ensuring optimal shooting comfort and accuracy.

Are Prism Scopes Good for Astigmatism?

Prism scopes can be beneficial for individuals with astigmatism, as they typically feature an etched reticle that remains crisp and clear regardless of the viewer's eyesight condition.

Unlike red dot sights, which project a dot that may appear blurry or distorted to individuals with astigmatism, prism scopes offer an advantage with their etched reticles. The etched reticle provides a sharp, well-defined aiming point that is less affected by astigmatism-related visual distortions.

Additionally, some prism scopes offer adjustable diopter settings, allowing users to fine-tune the focus for their specific eyesight needs. However, it's essential for individuals with astigmatism to try different reticle types and diopter settings to find the combination that works best for their eyesight condition.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the best prism scopes offer shooters a versatile and reliable optic solution for a wide range of shooting applications.

With their compact size, durable construction, and intuitive functionality, prism scopes excel in fast-paced shooting scenarios, providing quick target acquisition and precise shot placement.

By carefully considering factors such as magnification range, reticle design, durability, and optical quality the above reviewed products are the best on the market.