Top 5 Best Prism Scopes of 2018 Reviews & Buying Guide
Prism Scopes are one of the budget alternatives for expensive Reflex and Holographic sights. But people hardly know about them as they are not that common among professionals. However, a budget Prism Scope can prove as a worthy competitor to its similar Reflex or Holo counterpart that may come at twice or thrice in cost. But you need to get the best Prism Scopes for the premium experience and today, I’m helping you do just that.
What is a Prism Scope?
Prism Scopes are actually what they sound, “Prism” scopes. The name turned out to be Prism Scope because these scopes are composed of “Prisms” like the binoculars. Before I go into the technical parts of Prism Scope, let me clear a misconception about prism scopes.
There had been several times that people asked me to compare between Best Red Dot sight and Best Prism Scope. But they hardly realize that it’s not possible.
“Why?”
Because Prism Scope is actually a Rot sight. The very term “Red Dot Sight” does not imply a special kind of sights. Instead, Red Dot is a common term used to describe Firearm sights in general, which uses a Red Dot.
The proper classification will be like these:
First, Red Dot sight and it is divided into three types such as Reflex, Holographic, and Prism
So, Prism Scope is a kind of Red Dot Sight and that’s why the proper comparison will be Reflex sight vs Prism Scope or Holographic Sight vs Prism Scope, even though Holographic Sight and Prism Scope is no match to one another as holographic sight with magnifier is hardly a thing.
This is not the only thing that Prism Scope excels at. Along with good magnification, the best Prism Scope gives you both etched reticle and illuminated reticle system. Besides, the best prism scope is equipped to utilize more sophisticated reticles, which includes ranging or bullet drop info.
But the biggest advantage that Prism Scope has over any other Red Dot Sights is – its Diopter Adjustability.
Enough with the technical parts. Let me tell you how to use a Prism Scope with your arms.
Best Prism Scopes of 2018 Comparisons
Image | Product Name | Features | Our Ratings | Check Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Compact and lightweight and waterproof construction | |||
 | 12 different brightness settings, Horseshoe/Dot reticle type | |||
 | Burris's unique Ballistic CQ reticle,Multicoated lenses | |||
 | Waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof prism scope | |||
 | Compact, heavy duty, and lightweight prism scope, a glass prism optical structure |
Top 5 Best Prism Scopes
1. Vortex Optics Spitfire 3x Prism Scope
The prism scope by Vortex Optics is perfect for close to medium range shooting. The design of the scope allows for a compact optical system without damaging the optical quality. It gives an outstanding bright view because it features a fully multi-coated lens with anti-reflective coating.
For matching the situational conditions the selectable red/green brightened reticle features 5 intensity level. When you are at hunting, the prism scope ensures you the effective point of shooting all times despite illumination.
The high-quality prism scope is also waterproof and fog proof which ensures product longevity. The mounting system is multi-height featuring which allows for 30 to 40mm mounting height.
The EBR-556B reticle of the prism scope is specially made around the 5.56 x 45 cartridge to help rapid and targeted shooting both for near and far ranges.
What We Liked
What We Didn't Like
2. Primary Arms 2.5X Compact Hunting Scope
This waterproof and fog proof hunting scope give fixed magnification between 1x and 5x. Also, the reticles of the scope can be more complex and are flexible for focus. The primary arms are popular for quality, yet cheap red dots and scopes.
There are various brightness settings including 2-night vision options. The reticle is very sharp and the glass is very clear. It is an outstanding scope with affordable price. Without passive illumination, the prism scope is comparable to an ACOG.
This small sight is awesome and 2.5x is ideal for anything under 200 yards. I especially love the ACSS reticle and the glass for its great light transmission and color.
The prism scope is fog proof, waterproof, and nitrogen purged. Compact and outstanding design with a high-quality metal finish.
What We Liked
What We Didn't Like
3. Burris 300208 AR-332 3x32 Prism Sight
We are really impressed with the features of Burris AR prism sight. It is waterproof, fog proof, compact and comes with a unique Ballistic / Close Quarters reticle.
The prism sight is not only perfect for a short distance but also longer distances. It has five different illumination settings, and you can choose from red or green.
The best prism sight is also featured multicoated lenses, Picatinny mounting brackets, and, integrated lens cover. It also can easily be mounted on an AR carry handle.
The distinctive Ballistic reticle which is adjustable to match any lighting condition. The multi-coated lenses of the lightweight and compact prism scope decrease glare and confirm brighter images than others.
What We Liked
What We Didn't Like
4. Vortex Optics Spitfire AR 1x Prism Scope
The prism scope is specifically built for maximizing quick handling performance. Also gives super-fast functionality and awesome optical quality. The parallax-free, generous, sight picture and forgiving eye-box help hunters to target easily also in high-stress circumstances.
The illumination power control and rear-facing power are simple to operate and very easy to access. It also features 12 variable illumination settings which allow you to adjust the lighting condition perfectly.
The DRT reticle assures consistent point-of-aim nevertheless of whether or not the lighting is engaged. The prism scope is perfect for hunters who want to target fast for shooting. Also perfect close to medium or far range shooting. You can store or carry it easily into your backpack or shoulder bags.
What We Liked
What We Didn't Like
5. Monstrum Tactical S330P Ultra-Compact 3x Prism Scope
Compact and heavy-duty prism scope right now. It features 3x magnification and 30mm amazing lens.
It uses a glass prism optical system rather traditional scopes, which ensure better optical quality in a much smaller package.
With an adjustable focus lens, a comfortable eye relief of 3+ inches, and a crystal clear optics, it is similar to sights several times the price.
With or without illumination the reticle is visible, for a clean view picture regardless of light or environment.
The weight of the prism scope is 15 ounce that is very lightweight for easy shooting. You can shift between green, red, and black depending on the specific target. If batteries die out, you still get the functioning scope.
What We Liked
What We Didn't Like
User Guide: How to use the Best Prism Scopes with your firearm
Even though people may think that the best Prism Scope will be complex and difficult to use like the reflex and holographic sights, the case is exactly the opposite.
Prism sights are mostly easy to install and easy to use, especially the best Prism Scope from the market will have some additional features to help you use and install it on your weapon.
First of all, the good ones come with multi-height mount system that allows you to adjust the scope at any height you prefer. Besides, the best Prism Scope will most certainly have a built-in Picatinny mount in the bottom part of the housing.
As for using it, it’s like using a binocular.
But one major advantage of using Prism scopes that I want to talk about is it’s “no obtrusive reflection” characteristic.
I use glasses on a daily basis so when I’m using Red Dot sights, I face obtrusive reflection. But with the best Prism Scope, you can certainly expect the absence of obtrusive reflection of the dot.
Seems pretty easy to install and use, right?
You must be feeling like getting one for yourself. So allow me to explain how to buy the best Prism Scope from all the different brands and models you see in the market.
Buying Guide: What makes the Best Prism Scopes?
I can understand why it is a big deal to find the best Prism Scope from the market, especially when you have hundreds of brands and models.
But there are a few factors that make up the best Prism Scope. So allow me to break them down.
Magnification:
Magnification of Prism Scopes are the most prominent feature for them. They are fixed and often range from 1 times to sometimes 6 times with some expensive ones. The higher the magnification, the distant you can target.
But you don’t necessarily need a 5 or 6 times magnifier Prism Scope. Best Prism Scope does not mean they must have a 6x magnification. Most of the brands come with 2.5-3 times of magnification, which is ideal for Prism scopes.
Construction:
To ensure you are buying the best Prism Scope out of all, you must notify the overall construction of the scope. Usually, these Prism Scopes have a stiff, rigid, and durable body. Besides, they are compact in size, unlike open Reflex and Holo sights.
Reticle:
Also, unlike traditional Reflex sight and Holographic sight, the Prism scopes come with etched reticle along with an illuminated reticle. The best Prism Scope in the market will also have the option to choose between Red and Green for illuminated reticle.
The illumination has different intensity levels too. However, if your illumination doesn’t work for some reason, you have the etched reticle to help you target. The reticle can be either a dot or cross depending on the model and manufacturing company.
Diopter Adjustment:
The Best Prism Scope will be equipped with diopter adjustment. This adjustment allows people with astigmatism to use with 1-times magnification instead of using traditional Red Dot sights like Reflex sights or Holographic sights.
Weight:
As mentioned before, the Prism Scopes are compact and durable. That’s why they are not that baggy like open style reflex or holo sights. But the best Prism Scope will have a stiff metal on the body, which may put some additional weight.
Lenses:
Lenses of prism Scope can be either coated or non-coated with colors. If you are looking for the Prism Scope and don’t have any problem spending a decent amount on it, you can take multi-coated lenses that give your bright view, even in the low light.
Battery:
While holographic sight and reflex sights are power hungry when they are being used, Prism sight work on a light diet so that you don’t have to replace the battery very often.
Final Verdict:
So, here you go. Everything you need to know about these scopes to figure out what makes one the best Prism Scope over others and how would you know it. If you have carefully read the whole thing, I can assure you that you’re coming home with the best Prism Scope from the market, even if you are overwhelmed with several eye-candy choices.
