The best 1x prism scopes offer a perfect blend of clarity, durability, and versatility. Unlike traditional red dots, these scopes feature etched reticles that remain visible without power, making them a reliable option for critical situations.
They are ideal for users with astigmatism, as their reticle design eliminates distortion and ensures a sharp aiming point. With advanced features such as bullet drop or rise compensation, night vision compatibility, and wide fields of view, 1x prism scopes excel in tactical, hunting, and home defense scenarios.
Built to endure harsh conditions while delivering precise performance, they represent a top choice for shooters seeking uncompromising reliability and functionality.
Let’s look at the top 1x prism scopes.
Best 1x Prism Scopes
1) Primary Arms The SLx 1x MicroPrism Red Dot Sight
The Primary Arms SLx 1x MicroPrism Red Dot Sight is the best 1x Prism Scope, it is night vision compatible, has AutoLive motion-sensing technology, has a long battery life (29,000 Hours), 8 Mounting Height Options, Etched Reticle for astigmatism, diopter for precision reticle clarity, fully multi-coated optics and more.
This scope combines cutting-edge technology and exceptional build quality to deliver unparalleled performance. Rigorous field testing, including 7,000 rounds of .308 through a SCAR 17s, ensures the SLx MicroPrism is ready to perform in any environment, making it one of the best 1x prism scopes on the market.
The SLx MicroPrism is approximately half the size of its predecessor, the Compact 1x Prism, and over 20% lighter, making it highly portable and easy to integrate with various rifle platforms. Despite its small size, the optic offers robust features such as a wide field of view (76.5 feet at 100 yards) and an etched ACSS Cyclops Gen II reticle. This reticle works even without illumination, making it ideal for users with astigmatism.
The 13 illumination settings, including three-night vision-compatible modes, cater to a wide range of lighting conditions. Its AutoLive motion-sensing technology extends the impressive 29,000-hour battery life, ensuring the optic is always ready when you are. With a rugged IP67-rated construction, it is waterproof, fog-resistant, and dustproof, capable of withstanding harsh conditions.
Designed for close-quarters battle (CQB) and fast target acquisition, the MicroPrism offers an optimum eye relief range of 3.6 inches and a generous usable range of 2 to 6 inches.
The fully multi-coated optics ensure excellent clarity and brightness, while the diopter adjustment provides precision reticle focus for users of all visual acuities. Additionally, the 120 MOA windage and elevation adjustments with 1 MOA click values allow for fine-tuned accuracy.
Mounting versatility is another standout feature, with 8 height options included for absolute co-witness and lower 1/3 co-witness configurations.
This adaptability makes the SLx MicroPrism compatible with a variety of rifle systems and accessories, such as backup iron sights and magnifiers.
Pros
- Ultra-compact and lightweight design
- Etched reticle ideal for astigmatism and low-light use
- True daylight-bright illumination with 13 settings
- Exceptional battery life (29,000 hours at medium setting)
- Wide field of view (76.5 feet at 100 yards)
- Rugged IP67 waterproof and fog-resistant construction
- Versatile mounting options with 8 configurations
- Backed by a lifetime warranty
Cons
- Reticle design may have a learning curve for beginners
2) Vortex Optics Spitfire 1x Prism Scope
The Vortex Optics Spitfire 1x Prism Scope is one of the best 1x Prism Scopes, its generous sight picture and forgiving eye box allow for rapid target acquisition, whether you’re on the range or in a fast-paced tactical situation. With an eye relief of 3.8 inches and a wide field of view (79 feet at 100 yards), it provides excellent situational awareness and comfort during extended use.
The DRT MOA reticle, etched directly on the prism, ensures a clear aiming point even when the illumination is off, a great feature for low-light or battery-free operation. Additionally, the scope offers 12 brightness settings and dual-color illumination (red and green), so you can adapt the reticle to match the ambient lighting conditions perfectly.
Vortex’s HD Optical System features select glass elements for exceptional resolution, edge-to-edge sharpness, and true-to-life color fidelity. Fully multi-coated lenses improve light transmission, providing a clear and bright sight picture even in low-light scenarios.
Designed to withstand harsh environments, the Spitfire is shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof, thanks to its nitrogen-purged and O-ring-sealed construction. It’s built to handle the highest levels of recoil and impact, ensuring durability under heavy use.
One of the standout features of the Spitfire is its power source: a common AAA battery. With a battery life ranging from 250 to 3000 hours, depending on the brightness setting, it offers both convenience and longevity. This versatility ensures your optic is ready for extended outings or critical moments.
The Spitfire’s compact size and compatibility with AR platforms make it a versatile choice for a wide range of firearms. Its parallax-free design and precise 0.5 MOA adjustment clicks further enhance its ease of use and accuracy.
Pros
- The etched reticle remains visible without illumination
- Dual-color (red and green) illumination with 12 brightness settings
- Rugged shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof construction
- Generous field of view and forgiving eye box for fast target acquisition
- Fully multi-coated lenses for excellent clarity and low-light performance
- Long battery life with a common AAA power source
- Backed by Vortex’s lifetime VIP warranty
Cons
- Battery life at higher brightness settings is shorter compared to some competitors
3) Swampfox Raider Micro Prism 1x20mm Prismatic Sight
The Swampfox Raider Micro Prism 1x20mm Prismatic Sight is a high-performance optic specifically designed for close-quarters engagements, making it one of the top contenders for the best 1x prism scopes on the market.
Featuring a unique Bullet Rise Compensation (BRC) Reticle, this optic is perfect for short-barrel platforms like the 5.56/.223 AR-15, combining fast target acquisition with extended range capabilities.
The BRC Reticle ensures quick, accurate shots within 50 to 200 yards, focusing primarily on close-range engagements while still offering support for longer distances. The reticle incorporates dedicated holds for 5, 10, and 15 yards, making it particularly useful for AR-15 shooters in fast-paced situations.
Unlike conventional red dots, the Raider uses an etched reticle that avoids the starburst effect caused by astigmatism, providing a clear sight picture for all users. This etched design also prevents the reticle from washing out when illuminated by a weapon light, ensuring consistent visibility.
For low-light and daylight applications, the Raider offers red or green illumination with 10 brightness settings, including NVG-compatible settings and daylight brightness levels. The Shake N’ Wake illumination system conserves battery life by automatically powering off after 225 seconds of inactivity. Once motion is detected, it powers back on to the previous setting, allowing users to maintain their tactical advantage with minimal battery consumption.
Built to endure, the Raider’s die-cast zinc alloy housing is designed to withstand extreme conditions, including impacts up to 1200 Gs of force. This construction provides superior durability compared to standard CNC aluminum, ensuring that the Raider can handle recoil, rough handling, and adverse environments.
The T-2 mounting footprint offers versatile installation options, and the package includes both low-profile and medium mounts for customization. Titanium mounting screws further enhance the rugged reliability of this optic.
The Raider also includes high-quality flip-caps and a honeycomb anti-reflection device, providing additional protection for the lens while improving the optic’s clarity and reducing glare. Its 15mm exit pupil and expansive eye relief ensure a clear sight picture with both eyes open, increasing situational awareness and target acquisition speed.
Pros
- Bullet Rise Compensation (BRC) Reticle with holds for 5, 10, and 15 yards and 50/200 yards
- Shake N’ Wake motion-sensing auto on/off feature for battery conservation
- Etched reticle prevents issues like starburst and washout under weapon light
- The die-cast zinc alloy body provides excellent durability, capable of withstanding extreme impacts
- T-2 mounting footprint for versatile and secure mounting options
- High-quality flip-caps and honeycomb anti-reflection device included
- Wide field of view (70.7 ft at 100 yards) for fast target acquisition
- Lifetime warranty with 10 years of coverage for the LED
Cons
- Larger size compared to some ultra-compact optics
4) Burris Tactical Prism Sight
The Swampfox Raider Micro Prism 1x20mm Prismatic Sight stands out as a top-tier choice for shooters seeking a reliable and rugged optic for close-range and medium-range engagements. Designed with durability, precision, and versatility in mind, this prism sight is an excellent option for a variety of platforms, including AR-15s and other short-barrel rifles. With its ability to provide clear, fast target acquisition and a range of useful features, it ranks as one of the best 1x prism scopes on the market.
The Raider Micro Prism Sight offers push-button activation that allows users to choose between a green, red, or black reticle, providing full control over their sighting preferences.
This flexibility makes it suitable for different lighting conditions and environments, ensuring that users always have a visible reticle regardless of external factors. The etched black reticle is engraved directly on the prism, meaning that even without battery power, the optic remains fully functional with a clear sight picture.
For those looking for added precision, the reticle features easy-to-see hash marks for trajectory compensation up to 600 yards, allowing users to make accurate shots at varying distances. This makes the Raider an excellent choice for both close-range encounters and medium-range engagements where bullet drop compensation is critical.
The Raider also excels in low-light and bright conditions, thanks to specialized lens coatings that maximize glare resistance and improve low-light performance. Additionally, the sight is night-vision compatible, making it a versatile tool for different shooting environments, from daylight to nighttime use.
Built to withstand the most demanding conditions, the Raider Micro Prism Sight is shock-resistant, hand-fitted to the tightest tolerances, and is constructed with a waterproof and fogproof design. This rugged build ensures that the sight performs reliably in a variety of weather conditions and environments. The included tethered caps and flip-up lens covers add an extra layer of protection for the lenses, ensuring they stay clear and free from damage or debris.
With a single battery, the Raider provides up to 5,000+ hours of service, ensuring long-lasting performance in the field. This impressive battery life ensures that you won’t be left stranded with a dead optic in critical moments, and the battery-powered reticle can be adjusted to suit the conditions and your needs.
Pros
- Push-button activation for quick reticle brightness adjustment and color selection (green, red, black)
- The etched reticle remains visible even without battery power, offering versatility in any situation
- Trajectory compensation hash marks for accurate shooting up to 600 yards
- Lens coatings optimize glare resistance and enhance low-light operation
- Night-vision compatible, suitable for a wide range of lighting conditions
- Shock-resistant design for reliable performance in harsh environments
- Waterproof and fogproof to withstand any weather conditions
- Up to 5,000+ hours of battery life for long-lasting use
- Includes tethered caps and flip-up lens covers for added protection
Cons
- Larger size compared to ultra-compact optics
Read Also: 5 Best 5X Prism Scopes
Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best 1x Prism Scopes
Reticle Design and Versatility
When choosing a 1x prism scope, one of the most critical factors is the reticle design. A well-designed reticle enhances both aiming accuracy and target acquisition. Look for a scope that offers versatility in reticle styles, such as bullet drop compensation, range markings, and options for different colors like red or green.
This flexibility helps users quickly adapt to various lighting conditions and target ranges. A clear, easy-to-read reticle can significantly improve performance, especially in dynamic shooting situations, whether you’re engaging targets at close range or adjusting for longer distances.
Optical Quality and Clarity
The optical quality of a 1x prism scope plays a significant role in the clarity and brightness of the sight picture. High-quality optics ensure sharp images, minimal distortion, and vibrant colors. A clear sight picture not only improves target acquisition speed but also reduces eye strain during extended use.
Look for scopes with multicoated lenses that enhance light transmission and reduce glare, providing better visibility in both low-light and bright conditions. Good optical clarity also helps shooters maintain a clean sight picture at various ranges, making it easier to track and engage targets.
Durability and Construction
A durable construction is essential in any optic, especially for 1x prism scopes that are often used in harsh environments. Look for scopes made from rugged materials, such as aluminum or zinc alloy, which can withstand shocks, recoil, and rough handling. An optic’s waterproof and fogproof capabilities are also crucial to ensure it performs reliably in all weather conditions.
The construction should be weather-sealed to protect the internal components from moisture, dust, and dirt, ensuring long-lasting durability even in challenging outdoor settings.
Battery Life and Illumination Options
For optics with illuminated reticles, battery life is an important consideration. A good 1x prism scope should offer long-lasting battery life, especially for extended field use. Some optics feature energy-saving technologies like Shake N’ Wake, which automatically turns off the illumination after a period of inactivity, preserving battery power.
Additionally, it’s beneficial to choose scopes with multiple illumination settings that offer customizable brightness levels, ensuring that the reticle remains visible in various lighting conditions—from dim indoor environments to bright outdoor daylight.
Eye Relief and Comfort
Eye relief is an important factor to consider when choosing a 1x prism scope, especially for users who wear glasses or want to maintain situational awareness while shooting. A good 1x scope should provide generous eye relief to ensure that you can quickly acquire the reticle without needing to adjust your position or strain your eyes.
This also allows for rapid target acquisition, which is especially important in close-quarters situations. A larger eye relief provides more comfort during long shooting sessions and helps avoid eye fatigue, ensuring a more enjoyable shooting experience.
Field of View (FOV)
A wide field of view (FOV) is crucial for fast target acquisition and maintaining situational awareness. The wider the FOV, the easier it is to spot targets, especially in dynamic, fast-paced shooting scenarios.
For a 1x prism scope, look for an optic with a large FOV at 100 yards, typically measured in feet. This allows the shooter to track moving targets more effectively while keeping the surroundings in view. A wider FOV also helps users quickly transition between targets in close-quarters engagements, a common requirement for home defense or tactical use.
Mounting Compatibility and Ease of Use
The mounting system of a 1x prism scope can significantly affect its ease of use and versatility. Choose a scope with a standard mounting footprint, such as a T-2 footprint, which is compatible with a wide range of mounts and risers. This ensures that the optic can be easily mounted on various firearms, from rifles to shotguns.
Additionally, the scope should offer adjustable mount heights, allowing for customization to fit different shooting positions or firearm setups. An intuitive, simple mounting system will also save time and frustration during setup.
Price and Warranty
While performance and features are essential, price is also an important consideration. It’s crucial to find a 1x prism scope that offers a good balance between quality and cost. A well-priced optic should provide the features and durability you need without breaking the bank. Additionally, consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer.
A good warranty gives peace of mind, as it protects against potential defects or issues that may arise. Optics with lifetime warranties or extended coverage on the reticle or other components ensure that your investment is protected for years to come.
Best 1x Prism Scopes FAQs
What is the main advantage of a 1x prism scope over a red dot sight?
The primary advantage of a 1x prism scope over a red dot sight is the etched reticle, which remains visible even without illumination or battery power. This makes prism scopes a reliable option for situations where power sources may fail. Additionally, the etched reticle eliminates issues like the “starburst effect,” which can occur with red dots, especially for users with astigmatism.
Prism scopes also often feature advanced reticle designs, such as bullet drop or bullet rise compensation, enhancing their versatility in tactical and hunting applications.
Are 1x prism scopes suitable for users with astigmatism?
Yes, 1x prism scopes are an excellent choice for users with astigmatism. Unlike red dots that project light onto a glass surface, prism scopes have etched reticles that don’t rely on projection.
This design avoids the blurry or distorted appearance often experienced by users with astigmatism when using red dots. The clarity of the etched reticle provides a sharp and crisp aiming point, improving shooting accuracy and reducing eye strain.
How does the field of view (FOV) affect the performance of a 1x prism scope?
The field of view (FOV) determines how much of the surrounding area you can see through the scope at a given distance, typically measured in feet at 100 yards. A wide FOV is particularly beneficial for close-quarters engagements and fast-moving targets, as it allows the shooter to maintain situational awareness while tracking targets. A larger FOV also aids in target transitions, making 1x prism scopes with expansive FOVs ideal for dynamic shooting environments like tactical or home defense scenarios.
Can 1x prism scopes be used with night vision devices?
Many 1x prism scopes are night-vision compatible, featuring illumination settings specifically designed for use with night vision goggles (NVGs). These settings typically include very low brightness levels that don’t overpower night vision optics, ensuring optimal performance in low-light or nighttime conditions. It’s essential to check the specific model’s compatibility and brightness settings if night vision use is a priority for your application.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the best 1x prism scopes combine precision, durability, and user-friendly features to deliver outstanding performance in close-range engagements. Their etched reticles, robust construction, and advanced optics provide unmatched reliability and clarity, even in the most demanding conditions. Whether for tactical use, hunting, or home defense, these scopes cater to diverse needs while accommodating users with astigmatism and enhancing low-light capabilities