Are you tired of looking for the best prism scopes to no avail? Worry no more. In this guide, you will find a selection of the very best prism scopes, plus a comprehensive guide to help you narrow down your ideal model with ease.
Prism scopes are the most ideal sighting tool for any avid gun enthusiast that is walking away from the high-powered long-range scopes. They are a compact and affordable alternative for vast number of situations that require the use of a moderately powered optic. Besides, they are multi-platform friendly and great sighing equipment for a wide range of shooting applications.
With the right prism scope, you will be able to acquire targets more quickly than you would with a traditional scope. But with the sea of products available out there, finding a worthy one is no mean feat. Luckily, we are here to help. We will take a deeper look at the best prism scopes available on the market, but let’s begin by looking at the attributes that make a great prism scope for shotguns.
Attributes of a Great Prism Scope
A great prism scope is made of not one but multiple features that work together to produce a reliable sighting tool. These features include:
Durable Construction
A solid and sturdy make is the first attribute of a great prism scope. Rifles and shotguns emit a considerable amount of recoil that can easily damage a cheaply built scope. So, be sure to find a scope that is made with durable material such as aluminum.
Etched Reticle
The second thing that a great prism scope should boast is a glass etched reticle. This design not only increases shooting accuracy, but also improves the value of the prism. Glass-etched reticles also have the added advantage of withstanding recoil more effectively.
Quality Optics
The best prism scopes should also have quality glass elements that maximize resolution. On top of that, the lenses should be coated with premium-quality coatings for optimum light transfer.
Weatherproof Body
For all weather use, a great prism scope should have a body that is O-ring sealed and filled with a dry inert gas such as nitrogen or argon.
Sufficient Eye Relief
The other thing that a great prism scope should boast is sufficient eye relief to keep your eye safe from recoil and ensure optimum glassing comfort.
8 Best Prism Scopes – Our Top Picks
Prism scopes are built different from traditional lens scopes. They use a prism instead of lenses to focus light. Additionally, they come in different sizes and designs, and here are the best models to buy. Let’s take a look.
1) Primary Arms SLx Compact 1×20 Prism Scope
First on our list is the Primary Arms SLx Compact 1×20 Scope. This optic is an ideal choice for avid hunters who are looking to better their experience in the hunting fields. It allows for both eyes open viewing at close ranges and is ideal for use in all lighting and weather conditions.
The selling point of this prism scope is ability to accommodate all users even those with eye problems. It combines a generous eye relief and large exit pupil to make it an ideal choice for individuals with astigmatism. Furthermore, the glass-etched reticle has 11 illumination settings to enhance low light visibility.
When it comes to construction, the scope has a robust 6061 aluminum body that is lightweight but durable. The entire housing is shockproof and anodized against scratches as well as corrosion. Besides, the scope has a waterproof and fog resistant design for all-weather operability.
The other essential features included are capped tool adjustable turrets, 1/2 MOA click adjustments and a quick adjust diopter ring for easy reticle focusing.
Features
- Hardcoat anodized finish
- ACSS Cyclops reticle
- 6061 aluminum housing
- Waterproof and fog resistant
- Quick adjust diopter ring
- Capped turrets
- 1/2 MOA click adjustments
Pros
- Generous eye relief
- Large field of view
- Bright and clear glass
- Compact and lightweight
Cons
- Reticle size
2) Vortex Spitfire HD Gen II 3x Prism Scope
Vortex is a highly respected brand in the optics world. It manufactures a ton of high-quality optical devices and the Spitfire HD Gen II 3x Prism Scope is not built any different. It is packed with a multitude of superb features that every hunter/shooter needs to maximize the performance in the shooting range or hunting grounds.
The scope has a fixed 3x magnification power which is ideal for close and medium range use. With its HD optical system, it provides a clear view of targets at these ranges, even in dismal environments. Furthermore, the reticle is illuminated with 12 brightness settings to choose from.
Another feature that makes Spitfire HD Gen II 3x one of the best prism scopes is the lightweight and compact design. With this design, it is so easy to mount on the firearm and not add any unnecessary weight.
furthermore, this optic has fully multi-coated lenses to prevent internal reflection and ensure high levels of light transfer. In addition to that, it is 100% waterproof and fog proof.
Features
- HD optical system
- Rugged construction
- AR-BDC4 reticle with 12 illumination settings
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- 250 MOA adjustment range
- Low-glare matte finish
Pros
- Night vision compactible
- Lightweight and compact
- Holds zero well
- Tough and reliable construction
Cons
- Short eye relief
3) Monstrum S330P 3X Prism Scope
If you have a tight budget, the Monstrum S330P 3X Prism Scope is your ideal option. It is a compact, heavy-duty prism scope that is versatile, functional and rich in features yet remarkably affordable.
The scope is ideal for rapid close and mid-range target acquisition out to 300 yards. It uses a glass prism optical system that allows for better optical quality even in the less ideal lighting conditions. Additionally, it comes with a circle dot reticle that is glass etched and illuminated to provide clear sight picture in low light environments.
With a weight of 17oz, the scope is relatively light and easy to maneuver with during use. In terms of construction, it is crafted from 6061 aircraft grade aluminum to enhance durability and longevity. The entire body has a hard anodized finish for added shield from rust when use the scope in wet environments.
And that’s not all. The Monstrum S330P 3X Prism Scope is equipped with adjustable diopter to help with focus of both the reticle and sight picture. It also brings to the table precise turrets controls.
Features
- 3x magnification power
- Glass prism optical system
- Waterproof and nitrogen purged
- Heavy-duty construction
- Hard anodized finish
- Precise turret controls
- Multi-spectrum lens
Pros
- Reticle illumination
- Quick and easy to mount
- Inexpensive
- Easy to sight in
Cons
- Poor eye relief
4) Barska 3×30 ARX-Pro Prism Rifle Scope
Next on our list of the best prism scopes is the Barska 3×30 ARX-Pro Prism Rifle Scope. This innovative prism scope is unbeatable when it comes to versatility. It is ideal for hunting, shooting and military applications where it simplifies the aiming point and aids in rapid target acquisition.
With the newly designed illuminated Cross Dot reticle, the scope allows for pin-point targeting no matter the lighting condition. During use, you can easily change the brightness of the reticle using the push button included. As a result, you will have an easy time tailoring the scope match the ambient lighting environment.
To make the reticle useful in all situations, the scope features multi-coated lenses that limit glare and internal light reflection. As a result, more light is transmitted and bright, crisp and sharp image views are generated.
Moreover, the Barska 3×30 ARX-Pro Prism Rifle Scope is optimized for durability. It has a robust housing that is shockproof and recoil resistant. The scope is also fully waterproof and fog proof for use even in unfavorable weather conditions.
Features
- Second focal plane reticle
- Picatinny mount
- Multi-coated lenses
- Water, fog and shock proof
- Rubber armor finish
- External 1/4 MOA windage and elevation knobs
Pros
- Good value scope
- Great low light visibility
- Compact and lightweight
Cons
- Bad eye relief
5) SIG SAUER Bravo5 5x32mm Prismatic Battle Red Dot Sight
If you are in the market for a prism scope that is compatible with MSR or AR-platform weapon, you have found it in the SIG SAUER Bravo5 5x32mm scope. Getting this prismatic red dot sight will greatly boost your accuracy and enhance speed of target acquisition in all situations.
The scope is built to last. It has a rugged yet lightweight magnesium housing which is combined with an ergonomic construction to create a durable and reliable optic. Further, this prism scope is fully waterproof and fog proof to outlast the elements.
To complement the solid construction, the scope has an advanced prism and ocular design that provides a significantly large field of view. It also boasts low dispersion glass that is responsible for producing bright and most vivid image views without any distortion.
With all these handy features, the SIG SAUER Bravo5 5x32mm Sight guarantees great accuracy no matter the kind of shooting you will be doing.
Features
- Robust aluminum housing
- Picatinny mount
- Low dispersion glass
- Motion activated illumination
- Dependable IPX-7 waterproof rating
- Adjustable eyepiece
- Mega View system
Pros
- Good for astigmatism
- Large field of view
- Bright reticle
- Versatile
Cons
- Vulnerable front lens
6) Burris AR-536 Prism 5x36mm Tactical Red Dot Sight
Next up, we have the Burris AR-536 Prism 5x36mm Tactical Red Dot Sight. As one of the best prism scopes, this model sets the standard for tactical prism sights by striking the ultimate balance between performance and value.
With 5x magnification power, the scope makes it easy for shooters to engage targets out to 600 yards. On top of that, the large 36mm objective lens provides a large field of view that is essential for quick scanning and monitoring of mobile targets. The scope also features five brightness settings that make it an ideal choice for virtually any light condition.
Burris optics are known for their solid make and this model is not any different. Thanks to the heavy-duty construction, it is able to stand up to any abuse in the fields. Besides, it has a waterproof and fog proof construction to withstand any weather.
Moreover, the Burris AR-536 Prism 5x36mm Tactical Red Dot Sight has multi-coated lenses for optimal light transmission. It also includes an adjustable diopter and three Picatinny mounting points for ease of installation.
Features
- Ballistic CQ reticle
- Waterproof construction
- 5 illumination settings
- 3 picatinny mounting brackets
- Multi-coated lenses
- 5x fixed magnification power
Pros
- Versatile
- Compact and lightweight
- Easy to sight
- Excellent build quality
Cons
- The reticle crosshair is too thick
7) Athlon Optics Midas TSP3 3x28mm Prismatic Red Dot Sight
The Athlon Optics Midas TSP3 3x28mm Prism Scope is another premium-quality optic ideal for short and medium range use. At these ranges, it aids in fast scanning and quick target acquisition. It also fine-tune accuracy even in the most challenging shooting environments.
A defining feature of this optic is the selectable green/red illumination. During use, you can choose the illumination that you prefer and set the brightness level of the optic to match the ambient light conditions. Besides, the reticle is etched directly on glass to provide a consistent point of aim all the times.
Another outstanding feature of the sight is compact size. The prism design allows for a more small scope without cutting any corners on optical quality. Besides that, the scope is waterproof, fog proof and shock proof to guarantee unimpeded field use.
Optically, the Athlon Optics Midas TSP3 3x28mm prism scope has fully multi-coated optics to effectively reduce glare and light reflection. As a result, more light is transferred to give you brighter image views rich in color.
Features
- One piece chassis construction
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Aircraft grade aluminum housing
- Smart power management system
- Fully multi-coated optics
- 3x magnification power
- Glass-etched reticle
- Picatinny mount
Pros
- Dual green and red reticle illumination
- Mount included
- Crisp clear optics
- Compact and well made
- Low cost
8) Swampfox Blade 1x25mm Prism Scope
Lastly on our list of the best prism scopes, we have the Swampfox Blade 1x25mm Prism Scope. This optic is remarkably inexpensive but rich in features that make it an ideal choice for home defense and law enforcement use.
For both close and mid-range applications, the scope provides a wide field of view for quick target finding. On top of that, the true 1x magnification allows for both eye open shooting. This is important in that it increases your situational awareness in the field.
To rival the legendary rapid target acquisition speed of red dots, the scope features an incredibly forgiving eye relief and superb 13.5mm exit pupil. In addition to that, there are 12 brightness settings that you can use to customize the brightness of the reticle and enhance your shooting accuracy.
Furthermore, the scope is built with excellent glass elements to maximize image brightness and clarity which is vital for accurate target identification. It is also equipped with fully multi-coated lenses to enhance low light performance.
When it comes to construction, this prism scope has a ruggedized and waterproofed aluminum body that is shockproof to take in any abuse. The other essential features included are bullet rise compensation and the Shake N wake motion sensing technology
Features
- IPX-7 water resistance level
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Robust aluminum housing
- Picatinny mount
- 12 brightness settings
- Shake N Wake technology
Pros
- Night vision compatible
- Generous eye relief
- Lightweight yet durable
- Easy controls
Cons
- Short battery life
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Criteria for Choosing the Best Prism Scope
Let’s now go over the important things you should take into account when buying a prism scope.
Magnification Power
Unlike traditional scopes that have variable and high zoom power, prism scopes have a fixed magnification power that ranges from 1x to 5x. Make sure that you get a scope whose zoom power meets your shooting needs.
Intended Use
The next thing to take into account is intended usage. Prism scopes are multi-functional optics ideal for hunting, shooting, home defense and law enforcement applications among other applications. Take into consideration the kind of activity you will be using the optic for and pick the model that will work best for you. Also take into account the kind of firearm you will be using.
Durability
You will want to invest in a prism scope that is built with durability in mind. For the best prism scopes, look at the type material used and go for a product that uses either aluminum or magnesium. All scopes built with these two materials offer unmatched durability even with regular use.
Reticle
The next thing to consider is reticle. We recommend that you find a reticle that is illuminated and etched onto the glass. Illumination is important when shooting in low light settings. A scope with a glass-etched reticle is also vital in enhancing durability and being recoil resistant.
Lens Coating
You definitely don’t want a prism scope that yields blur views of targets during use. Always make sure that you pick a model that has fully-coated or multi-coated lenses. The lens coating feature is important in improving light transmission and reducing glare.
Advantages of Prism Scopes
Prism scopes have multiple advantages that make them an invaluable sighting tool. These advantages include:
- Compact Form. Prism scopes are much smaller in size for ease of portability and packability
- Versatility. The versatility of the best prism scopes is unmatched. They are compatible with a wide range of firearms and are ideal for hunting, shooting and home defense among other applications
- Better Image Views. Prism scopes use a prism to focus light. As a result, they are able to provide brighter and clearer sight pictures no matter the lighting condition
- Glass Etched Reticle. Most prism scopes have the reticle etched in glass. With this design, the reticle is able to maintain its visibility with or without battery illumination
Disadvantages of Prism Scopes
- Short Eye Relief. The main drawback that most prism scopes have is poor eye relief. This makes them less suitable for use with high recoiling weapons
- Fixed Magnification. The fixed magnification in prism scopes makes them ideal for taking shots at constant ranges only
Final Thoughts
A prism scope is a great sighting tool to have if you do your hunting and shooting within typical engagement distances. All the models we have listed above are designed to help improve your accuracy and ensure that you make the most out of your hunting/shooting expeditions. No matter the model that you end up getting, we do hope that you have found this article to be of significant help.