Sight Magnifiers

Red Dot-Magnifier Combo vs. Magnified Optics

The main difference between a red dot sight and a scope (or LPVO) is magnification and purpose. Red dots have no zoom, making them great for quick target acquisition at close range, but not ideal for long-distance shots.

Scopes, on the other hand, are built for long-range shooting with magnification levels from 4x to 24x and beyond, giving you the zoom you need to pick off targets at extreme distances. They’re great for precision at long distances but are bulky and not practical for close-range shooting.

A red dot with a magnifier combines both benefits. Magnifiers, usually offering 3x magnification (though you can find 4x magnifiers and beyond), add range to your red dot, allowing you to shoot effectively up to 300 yards while keeping your setup light and flexible.

Why Use a Magnifier for Red Dot?

The short answer is a red dot sight with a magnifier setup provides excellent adaptability of the whole weapon system. For example, pairing a Vortex Micro 3x Magnifier with your favorite red dot sight gives you a versatile solution for everything from competition shooting to varmint hunting.

So, whether you’re running an AR-15 or an AK platform, here’s why a magnified red dot sight or scope should be on your firearm:

• Versatility: Quickly switch between 1x for close range and 3x for mid-range without swapping optics or fumbling with an LPVO.
• Accuracy: A red dot magnifier combo enhances your precision compared to using just the red dot, allowing you to make longer, more accurate shots.
• Ease of Use: Modern magnifiers, like those from Vortex, Holosun, SIG, and EOTech, feature flip-to-side mounts, allowing for quick transition in under a second.

Sight magnifiers are compatible with all types of sights. Whatever you're looking for - a standard tube-style rifle sight magnifier, reflex sight magnifier, holographic sight magnifier - they are all the same devices.

How to Choose the Best Magnifier for Your Setup

• Magnification: Most magnifiers for red dot optics are 3x or 4x, ideal for mid-range distances. If you primarily shoot at further ranges, a dedicated scope might be more appropriate.
• FOV: Look for a magnifier with a wide field of view to maintain situational awareness.
• Construction: Don't overlook durability, particularly if you’re mounting your optic on a larger caliber AR or AK platform.
• Flip-to-Side Mounts: This is a must have.
• Eye Relief: Since optic magnifiers work as standard optical devices, eye relief might become an issue, making the acquisition speed slower. Look for proper eye relief.

Some of the best red dot magnifiers for AR and AK include Vortex Micro 3x, SIG Juliet (offered in 3x, 4x, 5x, and 6x magnifications and in a combo with the SIG Romeo sight), EOTech G33, and Holosun HM3X.

How to Sight In a Red Dot & Magnifier at once?

1. Mount Properly: Position a red dot magnifier behind the sight.
2. Zero Your Sight: Start by zeroing the red dot first. The magnifier doesn’t affect zero but will magnify your aim point.
3. Adjust the Magnifier: Once the red dot is zeroed, adjust the magnifier’s focus for a sharp, clear image.
4. Practice Transitions: If you’re running a flip-to-side magnifier, practice flipping it in and out of position.

Whether you’re a tactical shooter, hunter, or casual range-goer, the combination of a red dot with a 3x magnifier can elevate your shooting experience to new levels.

You can find the best sights and magnifiers fit for all kinds of weapons on Gritr Outdoors. Should you need an AR 15 holographic sight and magnifier to go with it, this is a great place to get them.