I’ve been on the hunt for a solid red dot sight that wouldn’t break the bank, and the Primary Arms SLX MicroDot kept popping up in my research. After finally getting my hands on one, I gotta say, I’m impressed. Let’s break down the good, the not-so-good, and everything in between.
Specs:
- Reticle Options: 2 MOA dot or ACSS CQB reticle
- Battery Life: Up to 50,000 hours (2 MOA dot), 12,000 hours (ACSS CQB)
- Weight: 7.7 oz
- Durability: IP67 waterproof and fogproof
- Mount: QD compatible
Best Features:
- Price: This is a huge win. You’re getting a lot of red dot for your money.
- ACSS Reticle (Optional): This reticle is fantastic for close quarters work with a chevron for fast acquisition and holdover marks for longer shots.
- Durability: It feels like it can take a beating. I wouldn’t throw it off a cliff, but it seems ready for the range and some bumps and bruises.
- Clear Glass: The sight picture is crisp and clear, no complaints here.
Advantages in Use:
- Easy to Use: Controls are simple and intuitive. Sighting it in was a breeze.
- Hold Zero: So far, it’s held zero well. I haven’t had to constantly re-adjust.
- Auto Live (Gen II): This feature (on Gen II models) automatically turns the sight on and off with movement, saving battery life.
Disadvantages to Consider:
- Battery Life (ACSS Reticle): The ACSS reticle eats battery life compared to the 2 MOA dot. Something to keep in mind if battery changes are a hassle.
- No Shake Awake: Some higher-end red dots have motion sensors to activate the reticle. This one is manual on/off.
- Rotary Knob Controls: While simple, some folks prefer push-button controls.
My Experience:
Overall, I’m really happy with the Primary Arms SLX MicroDot. It’s a great option for anyone looking for a no-frills, reliable red dot sight at a fair price. The ACSS reticle is a major plus for close-quarters shooting, and the build quality feels solid. It’s not going to win any awards for being fancy, but it gets the job done well.
What Others Are Saying:
Customer reviews online seem to echo my experience. People love the price, the ACSS reticle (for those who choose it), and the overall durability. Some folks with astigmatism mention the dot appearing slightly blurry, but that’s a common issue with red dots in general. A few reviewers wished for a shake-awake feature or push-button controls, but that’s mostly nitpicking for the price point.
Final Verdict:
The Primary Arms SLX MicroDot offers fantastic value for the price. It’s a solid red dot sight that won’t let you down. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that punches above its weight, this is definitely a contender.
