Best AR 15 Prism Scope in 2023

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Today I’m going to show you the best AR 15 Prism Scope. I’m here to help you to finding the Prism Optic for your AR 15.

I’ve hand- tested over 10 scopes alone for this review.

I’ve sorted the Prism Sights by use while it’s High power prism optics or best 5x prism. So whether you’re on a budget Prism Optic or need the best prism optics, you’ll find it here.

Let’s Start!

Best AR 15 Prism Scope	Image	Buy
Vortex Spitfire 1x Prism Scope: Best Prism Scope for AR-15
Primary Arms SLX Compact 1×20: Best for 1x
Monstrum Marksman 3X30 : Best Fixed Magnification
Monstrum S330P 3X Prism Scope: Best for the Budget

Table of Contents

What is a Prism Scope?

A prism scope is a type of rifle scope that utilizes a prism to reflect and magnify light, allowing for precise aiming and target acquisition. Unlike traditional telescopic scopes that use lenses and multiple internal components, prism scopes use a prism to bend light and focus it onto the shooter’s eye.

Prism scopes are known for their compact size and rugged construction, making them suitable for use on firearms with limited rail space or for applications where durability is essential. They typically feature a fixed magnification level, such as 1x or 3x, and use an etched reticle that is illuminated for better visibility.

One of the key advantages of prism scopes is their ability to provide a clear and crisp sight picture even in low-light conditions. The use of a prism allows for a more compact design compared to traditional scopes, making them well-suited for close-quarters shooting and quick target acquisition. Additionally, prism scopes are often parallax-free, meaning the reticle and the target will remain in focus regardless of the shooter’s eye position or target distance.

Overall, prism scopes offer a combination of compactness, durability, and optical clarity, making them a popular choice for shooters who require a versatile and reliable optic for a variety of shooting scenarios.

Pros & Cons of Prism Scopes

Prism scopes offer several advantages and disadvantages compared to other types of scopes. Here are some pros and cons of prism scopes:

Prism Optic Pros:

1. Compact Size: Prism scopes are typically more compact and lightweight than traditional telescopic scopes, making them suitable for firearms with limited rail space or for shooters who prefer a more streamlined setup.

2. Rugged Construction: Prism scopes are known for their durability and ability to withstand harsh environments, making them suitable for tactical and outdoor applications.

3. Quick Target Acquisition: The design of prism scopes, particularly those with low magnification, allows for rapid target acquisition and engagement, making them well-suited for close-quarters shooting and fast-paced scenarios.

4. Eye Relief: Prism scopes often have generous eye relief, which provides a comfortable viewing experience and allows for easier target tracking and engagement.

5. Optical Clarity: Prism scopes typically provide excellent optical clarity, sharpness, and image quality, allowing for clear sight pictures and precise aiming.

Prism Optic Cons:

1. Limited Magnification Range: Prism scopes generally offer fixed or limited magnification options, such as 1x or 3x, which may not be ideal for long-range shooting or situations that require precise target identification at extended distances.

2. Limited Field of View: The compact design of prism scopes can result in a narrower field of view compared to larger telescopic scopes, which may affect situational awareness and target tracking.

3. Less Versatility: Due to their fixed or limited magnification and often non-removable reticles, prism scopes may offer less versatility in terms of adapting to different shooting scenarios or preferences.

4. Price: Prism scopes, particularly those with high-quality optics and features, can be more expensive than some other types of scopes, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious shooters.

Best Prism Optic

There are several excellent prism scopes available for AR-15 rifles. When selecting the best prism scope for your AR-15, consider factors such as your shooting preferences, intended use (close-quarters, medium-range, etc.), budget, and specific features you prioritize (reticle type, illumination, magnification range, etc.).

Here are a few top options that are highly regarded by shooters:

1. Vortex Spitfire 1x Prism Scope: Best AR 15 Prism Scope

The Vortex Spitfire 1x Prism Scope is a popular choice among AR-15 shooters who prioritize a compact and lightweight optic for close-quarters engagements. The Vortex Spitfire 1x Prism Scope is a reliable and compact option for shooters who prioritize quick target acquisition and close-quarters engagements. Its durability, clear optics, and illuminated reticle make it a popular choice among AR-15 enthusiasts. We can count it as best Prism Optic. Here’s a review of the Vortex Spitfire 1x Prism Scope:

Pros:

1. Compact and Lightweight: The Spitfire 1x Prism Scope is designed with a compact and lightweight construction, making it ideal for shooters who want to minimize weight and bulk on their AR-15 platform.

2. Prism-Based Optics: The prism-based design of the scope provides a crisp and clear sight picture with enhanced optical clarity and sharpness.

3. Illuminated Reticle: The Spitfire 1x features an illuminated reticle with multiple brightness settings, allowing for quick target acquisition and aiming in various lighting conditions.

4. Quick Ranging: The reticle of the Spitfire 1x Prism Scope includes hash marks for quick-ranging and holdovers, which can be particularly useful for shooters who need to engage targets at different distances.

5. Durable Construction: Vortex Optics is known for its robust and durable construction, and the Spitfire 1x is no exception. It is built to withstand recoil and harsh environments, ensuring reliable performance.

Cons:

1. Limited Magnification: As a 1x scope, the Spitfire doesn’t offer magnification for distant targets. It is primarily designed for close-quarters engagements and rapid target acquisition.

2. Eye Relief: Some users may find the eye relief to be a bit short, requiring them to position their eye closer to the scope to achieve a full sight picture.

3. Fixed Reticle: Unlike variable magnification scopes, the Spitfire 1x has a fixed reticle, which may limit its versatility for shooters who require adjustable magnification for different shooting scenarios.

Vortex Optics Spitfire 1x Prism Scope – DRT Reticle (MOA)

About this item

· The Spitfire Prism Scope has been built from the ground up to maximize the fast handling performance in close to medium range applications. This prism scope is backed with all the features you need in an optic.

2. Primary Arms SLX Compact 1×20: Best for 1x

The Primary Arms SLX Compact 1×20 Prism Scope is a popular choice for AR-15 shooters who are looking for a compact and lightweight prism scope with a simple and intuitive design. The Primary Arms SLX Compact 1×20 Prism Scope is a compact and lightweight option with clear optics and a simple reticle design. It is well-suited for shooters who prioritize quick target acquisition and close to medium-range engagements or we can say this AR 15 Prism Scope is perfect as best 5x prism.

However, the fixed magnification and limited range may not be suitable for those who require adjustable magnification or intend to engage targets at longer distances. It’s important to consider your specific shooting needs and preferences when choosing an optic for your AR-15 platform.

Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of the Primary Arms SLX Compact 1×20 Prism Scope:

Pros:

1. Compact and Lightweight: The SLX Compact 1×20 Prism Scope is designed to be compact and lightweight, making it a great choice for shooters who want to minimize weight and bulk on their AR-15 platform.

2. Clear Optics: The scope features high-quality optics that provide a clear and sharp sight picture, allowing for precise target acquisition and aiming.

3. Prism-Based Design: The prism-based design ensures a bright and crisp sight picture, even in low-light conditions.

4. Simple and Intuitive Reticle: The scope features a simple and intuitive ACSS Cyclops reticle, which provides quick target acquisition and holds for close-quarters engagements.

5. Durable Construction: The SLX Compact 1×20 Prism Scope is built with a durable and rugged construction, ensuring it can withstand recoil and harsh environmental conditions.

Cons:

1. Limited Magnification: The scope has a fixed 1x magnification, which means it does not offer variable magnification for long-range shooting.

2. Limited Eye Relief: Some users may find the eye relief to be a bit short, requiring them to position their eye closer to the scope for a full sight picture.

3. Limited Range: Due to the fixed 1x magnification, the scope is primarily suited for close to medium-range engagements and may not be ideal for long-distance shooting.

Primary Arms SLX Compact 1×20 Prism Scope

About this item

·        Silver-rated by the NTOA!
·        Glass etched reticle that works with illumination on or off
·        Partial reticle illumination with 11 brightness

3. Monstrum Marksman 3X30 : Best Fixed Magnification

The Monstrum P330-B Marksman 3X Prism Scope is a budget-friendly option that provides decent performance for its price and you can call it as best budget AR 15 Prism Optic. It offers a clear sight picture, durable construction, and adequate magnification for close to mid-range engagements. However, it may not have the same optical quality and advanced features as higher-end prism scopes. If you are on a tight budget and prioritize affordability, the P330-B Marksman can be a suitable choice for your AR-15.

Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of the Monstrum P330-B Marksman 3X Prism Scope:

Pros:

1. Affordable Price: The P330-B Marksman offers good value for its price, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious shooters.

2. Compact and Lightweight: The scope is designed to be compact and lightweight, which is beneficial for shooters who want to keep their AR-15 setup lightweight and maneuverable.

3. Prism-Based Design: The prism-based design ensures a clear and bright sight picture, even in low-light conditions.

4. Etched Glass Reticle: The scope features an etched glass reticle, which provides durability and ensures the reticle remains visible even if the battery dies or in bright sunlight.

5. Quick Target Acquisition: The P330-B Marksman has a 3x magnification, which strikes a good balance between close-quarters shooting and mid-range engagements. It allows for quick target acquisition and improved accuracy at moderate distances.

6. Sturdy Construction: The scope is built with a durable construction that can withstand recoil and harsh environmental conditions.

Cons:

1. Limited Eye Relief: Some users have reported that the eye relief on the P330-B Marksman is limited, which may require them to position their eye closer to the scope for a full sight picture.

2. Lower-Quality Optics: While the optics on the P330-B Marksman are serviceable, they may not provide the same level of clarity and brightness as higher-end prism scopes.

3. Limited Features: Compared to more expensive prism scopes, the P330-B Marksman may have fewer advanced features and adjustments.

Monstrum P330-B Marksman 3X Prism Scope

About this item

· Next generation prism sight with 3x magnification and 30mm objective lens, for lightning fast target acquisition out to 300 yards

4. Monstrum S330P 3X Prism Scope: Budget Prism Optic

The Monstrum S330P 3X Prism Scope is a compact and versatile optic designed for AR-15 and other rifles. The Monstrum S330P 3X Prism Scope is a budget-friendly option that provides reliable performance for close to medium-range shooting. It offers a clear prism reticle, durable construction, and compact design. However, it’s important to note the limitations in magnification and reticle options when considering this scope for your specific shooting needs.

Here are some pros and cons of the Monstrum S330P:

Pros:

1. Compact and lightweight: The S330P is designed to be compact and lightweight, making it easy to mount on your rifle without adding excessive weight.

2. Prism reticle: The scope features an illuminated prism reticle, which provides clear aiming points and allows for quick target acquisition.

3. Fixed 3X magnification: The 3X magnification offers a good balance between close-quarters shooting and medium-range engagements.

4. Durable construction: The scope is built with a rugged aluminum body and is shockproof, fog-proof, and water-resistant, ensuring it can withstand harsh conditions.

Cons:

1. Limited magnification: The fixed 3X magnification may not be suitable for long-range shooting or precision tasks that require higher magnification.

2. Limited eye relief: Some users have reported that the eye relief on the S330P is a bit shorter compared to other prism scopes, which may affect comfort during extended shooting sessions.

3. Limited reticle options: The S330P comes with a single reticle option, so if you prefer different types of reticles or additional features, you may need to consider other options.