In this buyer's guide, let's check out the best red dot magnifier scopes.
As the technology that can bends light and make scopes got better in recent years, more and more smaller size magnifier optics are coming to the market.
Let's check them out:
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How We Pick Red Dot Magnifiers
Buying a red dot magnifier scope is simple. It is simply a magnified scope without any reticle to enlarge a red dot sight picture for better target identification and extends the range for a red dot sight.
Here are specs we take into account to create this recommendation list:
Magnification - Pick a magnifier betwee 3x to 6x magnification, but 3x is a good choice for most rifle shooters, and 3X is the most popular on the market
Size and weight - Choose a small and lightweight design to save weight and balance your rifle. A shorter magnifier scope doesn't take up space while mounting behind the red dot sight
Eye relief - Pick a magnifier with long eye relief about 3 - 4" behind the optic to shoot comfortably without recoil. The higher the magnification, the tighter the eye box.
Quality construction - Look for magnifiers made of aircraft-grade T6 aluminum and coated lenses to resist scratches. Gas-purged and sealed models are waterproof and fog-proof.
Mount - Choose a flip mount to quickly move the magnifier behind your red dot sight when you need it. A quick-detach mount is cheaper but slower. Make sure it fits your optics and rifle’s rail space, with a sturdy locking mechanism.
Proper mounting - While most red dot magnifier scopes come with factory mount, if you are using a 1.93" or higher mount you need to buy aftermarket mounts in order to align with the red dot sight
Best Red Dot Magnifiers
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Sig Sauer JULIET4 Red Dot Magnifier - Best Overall
- Magnification 4x
- Objective Lens Diameter 24 mm
- Eye Relief 2.55 inches
- Linear Field of View 38.2 feet @ 100 yds
- Length 4.2 inches
- Weight 12.5 oz
This is a solid side flip 4x red dot magnifier, and it's the best 4X red dot magnifier we have found so far. The build quality is rugged and it went straight to our recommendation list.
Many people love its price point without spending over $400, and shooters are generally very satisfied with this product.
Aim at long-distance targets 4 times better and retract it to the side when transitioning back to the red dot sight in no time.
Read More: Sig Sauer Juliet 4 Review
Pros
- Very well built 4X magnifier
- Long eye relief
- Tight diopter adjustment ring
- QD side flip mount included
Cons
- Tight FOV
Vortex Micro 3X - Most Compact
- Magnification 3x
- Objective Lens Diameter 22 mm
- Eye Relief 2.64 inches
- Linear Field of View 38.2 feet @ 100 yds
- Angular Field of View 7.28 degrees
- Length 2.9 inches
- Weight 9.55 oz
Why pick Vortex Micro 3X is the compact version of the Vortex VMX 3T. It's a smaller and shorter optic features better eye relief, 28% more field of view, and a built in quick-release mount.
Recommended for users who like to mount their red dots more rearward to get the best eye relief distance.
The Vortex Micro 3X is the best red dot magnifier for the AR-15. It's compact, lightweight, and works with any holographic or red dot sight. The fixed magnification of 3X and 22mm objective lens make it perfect for close to mid-range shooting.
The glass is crystal clear with anti-reflective coatings, and the multi-coated lens eliminates glare. The magnifier is nitrogen purged and shock, water, and fogproof, making it durable.
The adjustable and ambidextrous flip mount is easy to use, and it can be swapped to other mount like the Unity Tactical FTC.
The entire unit weighs only 9.5 oz and has an extreme clarity with multi-coated glass lens. Vortex's unconditional warranty backs the magnifier. If you're looking for a fixed magnifier for your red dot or holographic sight, the Vortex Micro 3X is worth the investment.
Read More: Vortex Micro 3X Review
Pros
- Very rock solid body
- Minimum FOV obstruction
- Tight diopter adjustment ring
- QD mount included
- It works with the new Unity Tactical FTC mount
Cons
- Aesthetics could improve
Holosun Magnifier HM3X - Best For The Money
- Magnification 3x
- Eye Relief 2.75 inches
- Linear Field of View 37 feet @ 100 yds
- Angular Field of View 7. degrees
- Length 3.9 inches
- Weight 11.6 oz
One of the standout features of the HM3x is its durability. It is constructed from high-quality aluminum and is both shockproof and waterproof, making it ideal for use in a range of conditions. Additionally, the HM3x is nitrogen purged, which prevents fogging and ensures that the optic is always clear and ready to use.
Another benefit of the HM3x is its compatibility with a range of red dot and holographic sights. It comes with a quick-release mount that allows for easy attachment and detachment from your rifle, so you can switch between your red dot and magnifier quickly and easily.
The HM3x also has a generous eye relief, which makes it comfortable to use for extended periods of time. This is especially important for shooters who wear glasses or need to adjust their eye position frequently.
Perhaps the best feature of the HM3x is its price. Compared to other magnifiers on the market, the HM3x is incredibly affordable, making it an ideal choice for beginners or anyone on a budget. Despite its lower price point, it offers high-quality optics and excellent durability, making it a great value for anyone in the market for a magnifier.
Pros
- Very rock solid body
- Very rock solid flip mount included
- Tight diopter adjustment ring
- QD mount included
Cons
- Aesthetics could improve
EOTech G33 - Old School
- Magnification 3.25x
- Objective Lens Diameter 1"
- Eye Relief 2.64 inches
- Length 3.9 inches
- Weight 11.9 oz
- Side STS Mount
The EOTECH G33 Magnifier is an excellent option for shooters who want to upgrade their red dot sight without breaking the bank. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of some higher-end magnifiers, it still provides solid performance at an affordable price point.
The G33 offers 3x magnification, which is perfect for medium-range shooting using a red dot or a holographic sight. Its glass is incredibly clear and features an adjustable diopter, which allows for a customized viewing experience.
Additionally, its quick-detach mount makes it easy to attach and detach from your rifle, making it a great option for shooters who need to switch between magnified and non-magnified shooting quickly.
This magnifier is also built to last, with durable construction and a nitrogen-purged design that makes it both waterproof and fog proof. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to use and maneuver, even for beginners.
Overall, the EOTECH G33 Magnifier is an excellent option for those looking for a reliable and affordable magnifier for their red dot sight. Its solid performance, durability, and ease of use make it a great choice for beginners and seasoned shooters alike.
Check out NEW EOTECH Brand Magnifiers
Pros
- Very rock solid flip mount
- Rock solid body design
- Works with Unity Tactical FTC
- Matches well with EOTECH products
Cons
- A bit pricey for beginners
Aimpoint 3X-C - Lightest Weight
Features Unity Tactical FTC mount
- Magnification 3x
- Eye Relief 2.2 inches
- Angular Field of View 6 degrees
- Length 4 inches
- Weight 7.8 oz
The Aimpoint 3X-C is cheaper than the original Aimpoint 3X because it is a more streamlined version of the original. It has fewer features and simpler construction, which lowers the cost of production.
The 3X-C is designed to be a budget-friendly alternative to the original 3X while still providing the same quality and durability that Aimpoint is known for. Additionally, the 3X-C is made with a polymer housing instead of the aluminum housing found on the original 3X, which also contributes to the cost savings.
Despite the differences, the Aimpoint 3X-C still offers a reliable magnification solution for shooters who want to enhance their red dot sights without breaking the bank.
Read More: Aimpoint 3X C Review
Pros
- Very clean glass
- Much more affordable than the mil spec model
- Works with most 30mm ring mounts
- High quality coating
- Wide FOV
Cons
- Not mil spec to lower the price point
- Magnification 3x
- Objective Lens Diameter 24 mm
- Eye Relief 2.64 inches
- Linear Field of View 37.9 feet @ 100 yds
- Weight 7.9 oz
The Primary Arms 3X is the best 3x red dot magnifier under $100 on this list. For this money you are getting a non-expensive product to extend the range of your red dot sight.
The GEN IV has a longer 2.64 inches eye relief distance compared to the 2.2 inches on the Aimpoint 3X, which many people love.
Also with integrated diopter that provides fast focus ability to keep target image clear.
Rubber sleeve cover protects the body from harsh scratch and impact to last a long time outdoor.
Pros
- Very affordable for casual shooters
- Very affordable
- Gets the job done like Aimpoint 3XC
Cons
- Out of spec for some 30mm ring mounts
- Loose diopter adjustment ring
Sig Sauer JULIET6 - Best 6X Magnifier
- Magnification 6x
- Objective Lens Diameter 24 mm
- Eye Relief 2.3 inches
- Angular Field of View 4 degrees
- Length 5.4 inches
- Weight 14.7 oz
- QD PowerCam 90 Degree Flip Mount
Way more economical than getting the Aimpoint 6X for a magnifier exhibiting the same performance and quality.
The eye relief and eye box will be much tighter than a 3X magnifier, but that's expected for an optic with 6X zoom.
The sight includes an rugged PowerCam 90 mount for side flip sight transition or for quickly bring targets 6 times closer.
The built-in recoil lugs guarantee secure mounting on the hardest recoil rifles.
Pros
- Very affordable 6X on the market
- Same quality as Juliet 4
Cons
- Very tight field of view
- Not the same as 1-6X LPVO
Are Red Dot Magnifiers Worth It?
A magnifier scope extend a red dot sight 's capability for long-distance shots, and improves the zeroing process by simply zoom in the aim.
It's very useful within 100 - 170 yards before the shooter really need to get a long range rifle scope
Benefits are:
- Positively ID targets during the day and night when using a 1X optic
- Fast transition between 1X & higher power
- Finer zeroing
- Much more clear dot
- Shoot mid range targets
- Tuck it away when not in use
Zero Red Dot Sight Better
Fine-tune the zero with a magnifier scope.
Often times shooters zero their 2 MOA size dot at 25 or 50 yards with a good group, then they call it good.
A magnifier scope can fine-tune your point of aim simply by zooming in the image and correct as much as 0.2 - 0.5 MOA error.
Generally speaking, you can correct your zero up to +/- 3/8 " more accurate than without a magnifier.
Does Red Dot Increase In Size When Magnified?
Note: Red dot reticle doesn't increase in size when magnified, in fact, it stays the same even though it appears bigger.
Differences In Magnification Power
Between 3X and 4X, there isn't a big difference other than the POV & cost. The most important thing is to know what distance do you typically shoot and pick the best one.
For red dot magnifier combo users, a 3-4X is a good pick for anything within 200 yards, where most of your targets are around 50 yards.
For anyone that shoot mostly targets beyond 150 yards or 250 yards, a 6X scope is a better choice. However, with the increased magnification also means tighter eye box and increased scope length that can take up some rail real estate.
Red Dot Sight & Magnifier Mount Height
One thing the shooter must properly verify is the height of the two optics, they must align.
If the two optics are aligned, but the red dot is off-center in the magnifier view, then you need to center the magnifier to the zeroed dot.
Some magnifiers come to spacers you can add to your magnifier to lower or raise the height to align with the red dot sight, and some you can't.
As more tall optic mounts gain popularity in the market, riser magnifier mounts will be more readily available such as the Unity Tactical FTC, Scalarworks 1.93" mount.
Magnifier Scope Mount Options
Before you pick up a magnifier scope, make sure you know which mount you want.
There are fixed mounts, flip to side mounts or twist mounts.
Flip to the side mount is the most popular because you can basically tug the scope away if not needed, or flip it back when you need it.
Note: Make sure the mount allows you to switch mount direction in case you're a left-handed shooter, and you want it to flip to the left instead of to the right.
As the content creator of badassoptic.com, My background in the firearms industry and shooting sports gives me the experience to recommend tried and true products and keep away subpar ones.