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- Alfred Mendoza
- June 2, 2023
If you’re a fan of red dot sights, you probably already know the benefits it could give your weapon during an actual day or night pursuit. But imagine this—your weapon’s accuracy can be upgraded—ten folds better than what it used to be. The best red dot magnifier can do “just” that. Are you curious yet? Well, read this review to have an informed decision when purchasing the best red dot magnifier for your most favorite rifle.
- Shuffles from 1x magnification - 3x magnification.
- Has fog-resistant internal optics
- Compatible with broad of red dot sights
- Ideal for target shooting, tactical training, and hunting
- Quick-detach rail mount
- Compatible with Aimpoint red dot sights
- Equipped with 39mm twist mount and base
- Can shift between non-magnified and magnified aiming without re-zeroing
- Encased in a shock-absorbing protective rubber cover
- Has ergonomic designs
- Versatile design
- Dialectic coated prism
- Quick-release flip mount
- Protective lens covers
- High-quality aircraft-grade CNC aluminum housing
Table of Contents
Top 10 Red Dot Magnifiers in 2022
1. EOTECH G33
The EOTECH G33 Magnifier is one of the best red dot magnifiers and one of the most compact and lightweight magnifiers available on the market today. It features a fast-transitioning mount, allowing switch-to-side mount between 1x and 3x magnification.
This magnifier also offers tool-free vertical and horizontal adjustments, large field-of-view, and an adjustable diopter for improved and more accurate focusing. The G33 red dot magnifier also works with all EOTECH HWS models.
This best red dot magnifier provides EOTECH HWS Prestige Warranty that comes with a 10-year limited warranty. It only weighs 11.2 oz, has an eye relief of 2.2 inches, and 7.3 field of view. This magnifier is also submersible up to 10 m, bearing a fog-resistant internal optic.
PROS
- Shuffles from 1x magnification - 3x magnification.
- Has fog-resistant internal optics
- Compatible with broad of red dot sights
- Ideal for target shooting, tactical training, and hunting
- Quick-detach rail mount
CONS
- Eye relief could be a little longer
- Small eye box
2. Aimpoint 3XMag
The Aimpoint 3XMag Magnifier is one of the best red dot magnifiers that features a magnification of 3X and is compatible with Aimpoint red dot sights for longer range aiming and surveillance.
This magnifier can be used as a handheld 3X monocular and is encased in a shock-absorbing protective rubber cover. With this magnifier, no re-zeroing is needed when shifting between non-magnified and magnified aiming points.
This RDS Aimpoint 3X magnifier uses a magnifying module system, an eye relief of 5 degrees, and a 40 – 90 mm field view, with 60-65mm as its full field of view. It also features anodized aluminum, dark grey, and rubber covered black finish.
PROS
- Compatible with Aimpoint red dot sights
- Equipped with 39mm twist mount and base
- Can shift between non-magnified and magnified aiming without re-zeroing
- Encased in a shock-absorbing protective rubber cover
- Has ergonomic designs
CONS
- Short eye relief
- The flip mount is not included.
3. Sig Sauer SOJ41001
The SIG Sauer SOJ41001 is also one of the best red dot magnifiers that provide easy transitioning from close-quarters to intermediate-range targets. It also features a dialectic coated prism and a versatile design that works as a stand-alone magnification solution in conjunction with a reflex optic.
This red dot magnifier also features a mounting system that allows the shooter to flip the magnifier to the side for close-range scenarios quickly. It also has a back up for 4x magnification and a quick-detach mount featuring built-in recoil lugs for repeatable zero. It is made of high-quality and lightweight aircraft-grade CNC aluminum housing and is IPX8-rated waterproof for up to 20m for 1 hour with fog-resistant construction.
PROS
- Versatile design
- Dialectic coated prism
- Quick-release flip mount
- Protective lens covers
- High-quality aircraft-grade CNC aluminum housing
CONS
- Somewhat pricey
- Not compatible with MRO
4.Vortex Optics VMX-3T
The Vortex Optics VMX-3T is a red dot magnifier scope that features a magnification of 3X to your AR-15 rifle’s red dot sight. It also features a simple, effective, and fast push-button design that engages and disengages the flip mount for a personalized lock-in at your desired position.
The magnifier’s lenses are fully coated, maximizing their resolution, light gathering capability, and color fidelity. It also features an eye relief of 2.2 inches and a field of view of 38.2 feet per 100 yards.
The VMX-3T magnifier doesn’t require any special sight-in as the dot centering screws can center your red dot image in its field of view at 100 yards. The VMX-3T is also nitrogen purged for a resolute waterproof and fog-proof performance in the field. This magnifier also allows for lower 1/3 or absolute co-witness mounting heights.
PROS
- Weather-resistant
- It doesn’t require a special sight-in.
- Durable, waterproof, and fog proof
- Versatile flip-to-the-side mount
- Allows co-witnessing mounting heights
CONS
- Short eye relief
- A little hefty
5. UTG 3X
The UTG 3X is a non-magnified dot or holographic red dot sight on a sporting AR-15 rifle that features an integral flip-to-side mount, allowing a transition between 1X magnification – 3X magnification in split-seconds. This magnifier also features a main ergonomic body that intuitively pulls back. The shooter can also flip the magnifier into and out of position through its support hand.
With the UTG 3X, the shooters don’t need to wrestle with small switches, buttons, or cam levers. It provides a MIL-STD-1913 base with a patented quick-detach lever lock system allowing quick installation and removal of the magnifier completely.
This magnifier also provides a 30% larger field of view than most current magnifiers, the SCP-MF3WEQS. It also has a tailorable eyepiece dioptre, fully coated lenses, and fog and rainproof performance, providing clarity and high-quality performance.
PROS
- Precision windage and elevation centering adjustment
- Maximum strength quick-detach lever lock
- Flip-to-side QD
- Broadband multi-coated lens
- 42mm center height
CONS
- Issues with gathering light and body design
- Not compatible with absolute co-witness RDS
6. EOTECH HHS II
The EOTECH HHS II is a holographic hybrid sight that features an excellent red dot magnifier combo with an XPS2-2 red dot sight and G33 magnifier. This red dot sight also transitions between near and far targets with laser-driven and holographic speed using its switch-to-the-side mount. The HHS II also provides iron sights backup, giving easy control and access to its 3X magnifier at any given range.
The HHS II also features a quick-detach lever that fits the 1 inch Weaver and MIL-STD 1913 rail mounts. It also has a compact side button operation that consumes minimal rail space and a 10-year limited warranty.
PROS
- Lightning-fast target acquisition and reliable toughness
- Allows quick transitions and switch-to-side mount
- Works with all gen 1-3 night vision devices
- Submersible to 33 ft (10 m) depth
- Provides easy to use side button operations
CONS
- It is not suitable for use at the night
- The quick-detach mount is claimed to be flimsy
7. Feyachi M36
The Feyachi M36 is a red dot magnifier designed to work with an absolute co-witness red dot sight and a lower 1/3 co-witness. It also features a fast flip-to-side engagement and a push-button design that engages and disengages the flip-mount for better stability.
The M36 also features an all-steel mount body, rugged enough to withstand extreme weather conditions without affecting your zero. This magnifier’s flip-to-side Picatinny rail mount allows the shooter to shoot either 1X or other 1.5 – 5X magnification by simply pushing the magnifier to the side.
PROS
- 1x-5x magnification
- Easy to use and has crystal clear multi-coated lens
- Steel Flip to Side Mount
- Broad compatibility with Red Dot Sights
- Quick-Attaching Thumbscrew Mount
CONS
- You need to position your eye closer to the scope to maintain a clear sight picture.
- No fixed focal point
8. Falcon V1
The Falcon V1 is a red dot magnifier owned and developed by Tacticon, a combat veteran-owned company. This magnifier features rapid target acquisition with 2.5 inches of eye relief, making it easy to center the dot in the lens.
The Falcon V1 also includes a flip-to-side Picatinny rail mount with an optional 3mm shim, allowing the shooter to toggle either 1X magnification – 3X magnification by simply pushing the magnifier to the side. The optional 3mm shim increases the magnifier’s vertical height to match the elevation of almost any red dot optic available.
Tacticon Armament’s Falcon V1 magnifier also offers 2.5 inches of eye relief along with a focus adjustment. Each lens is sourced from Germany and is coated for anti-glare, providing 3X crystal clear magnification. This magnifier is engineered to be cross-compatible with all red dot optics brands, including EOTech, Aimpoint, SightMark, Holosun, and others.
PROS
- Compatible with Tacticon and other brands with 1X optics
- Has push button flip-to-side integrated mount
- Has fully adjustable reticle centering
- O-ring sealed weatherproof aluminum housing
- 3mm removable shim
CONS
- Eye relief is so short
- Some customers complain about its stability when mounted
9. Primary Arms
The Primary Arms Long Relief 3X Magnifier (Gen IV) is another red dot magnifier that features a long eye relief, wide field of view, and improved clarity, providing an enhanced user experience. This magnifier is also waterproof and for proof.
The Primary Arms magnifier is placed behind any red dot or holographic reflex sight, instantly magnifying the sight picture at 3X magnification power. It also features an integrated diopter providing fast focus ability for a high-quality and clearer image.
It also has an Azimuth and elevation adjustments keeping the dot centered perfectly in your field of view. And lastly, it also features a rubber armor sleeve that protects the optic’s body from harsh impacts.
PROS
- Features a rubber armor sleeve
- Gen IV improvements
- Has an integrated diopter
- Comfortable extended eye relief
- Azimuth and elevation adjustments
CONS
- Lacks focus adjustments
- Short warranty period
10. Feyachi M37
The Feyachi M37 is another red dot optics magnifier that adds 1.5X – 5X variable magnification to any standard red dot sight while maintaining a wide field of view and a comfortable 2.2-3.6 inches eye relief.
This magnifier also features a focus adjustment providing a fast focus ability that helps keep the image sharp and clear. The M37 also comes with an adjustable windage and elevation feature for optimum view centering.
The Feyachi M37 also comes with fully multi-coated lenses, ensuring a good resolution, enhanced light gathering capabilities, and solid color fidelity. It also includes a flip to side mount designed for Absolute co-witness with an easy snap of the switch. This magnifier is made with hard-coat-anodized machined-aluminum construction ensuring durability and a longer life span.
PROS
- Adds 1.5X - 5X variable magnification
- Features a focus adjustment
- It comes with adjustable windage and elevation.
- Includes a flip to side mount
- Made with hard-coat-anodized machined-aluminum construction
CONS
- Somewhat big and heavy
- Eye relief issues
Buying Guide
Budget
Compared to other comparable LPVOs (Low-Powered Variable Optics), the best budget red dot magnifier comes with a fairly affordable price tag. Keep in mind that in most cases, you always get what you pay for. So, if you aim for a high-quality magnifier, expect a higher price, although this rule doesn’t always come as 100% sure.
That is why you need to check-out options and read and understand their features before purchasing a red dot magnifier to avoid overspending or choosing an affordable magnifier with cheap features. Since these tools enhance your weapons’ accuracy, it is better to weigh your options in a spot-on and clever way.
Durability
Magnifiers often take a lot of abuse, like standard iron sights, so you need to consider their durability before purchasing one. Magnifiers made of aircraft-grade aluminum alloys are most likely to be more durable than those made with polymer or other cheaper plastics. Also, consider the durability of the magnifier’s lens.
We suggest that you buy a magnifier with a multi-coated lens made of high-quality glass to make sure durability against extreme conditions. Furthermore, consider getting a magnifier with an O-ring seal to prevent water and dust from getting into it.
Magnification
It is also best to consider the overall magnification of the magnifier. Generally, magnifiers provide 1X – 6X magnification power options. However, based on research, 3X magnification power is the most popular option.
Choosing the right magnification power is a crucial step you need to consider before buying your magnifier because it may affect the sighting tool’s overall performance. The too large and too small magnification power of its objective lens may obstruct your magnifier’s field of view. The 2X – 3X magnification powers make your shot accurate at 200 – 300 yards.
Flip to Side or Inline
Magnifiers either come with a mount that can be a flip to the side or an inline option. Flip to side mount gives you the ability to switch back and forth between magnification and non-magnification, making this magnifier best for dynamic tactical range shooting situations. This mount is best for targets engaged at constantly evolving distances.
On the contrary, an inline mount is permanently attached behind your red dot sight like iron sights, so the ability to switch positions isn’t possible. With this, our team suggests that you get flip-to-side, slide-to-slide, or switch-to-side mount for magnifiers instead.
Mounting Options
As mentioned earlier, your magnifier’s mounting options are essential because it could affect the overall performance of your weapon’s accuracy. For the flip-to-side, slide-to-slide, or switch-to-side mounts, your magnifier gets better transitioning options for different uncalled for situations. On the other hand, the inline mount offers permanent attachment, so you need to be extra careful, primarily when the magnifier will be used for different rifles and guns.
Eye Relief
Eye relief is the eye’s distance from an optical instrument’s eye lens that is best suited to the instrument’s use. [1] It is essential to determine where you can put your head when using the magnifier. It is also best to consider your eye condition, such as astigmatism, because it can also affect your accuracy when using a magnifier with an unfit eye relief best for your situation.
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Size & Weight
You also need to consider the size and weight of your magnifier. Imagine having a heavy weapon with a red dot sight and then topped with another heavy red dot magnifier. Can you handle the weight and bulky size while on the hunt?
It is best to consider the time you would spend when hunting. You can’t expect to hold a heavy weapon while hunting for long hours, especially in low light conditions. It’s also noteworthy to remember that the size or weight of its objective lens or its body may affect the magnifier’s overall weight. So we suggest that you get a compact and lightweight magnifier.
Extra Features
The extra features of a magnifier attract most consumers. Most magnifiers offer the same features, so having a few additional advantages over the other brands is a wise choice. Some magnifiers offer special lens coatings, extra included mounts, wider field of view at 100 yards, and longer eye reliefs.
Versatility
Having a red dot magnifier that can be used with any other weapon or rifle is another advantage.
It could save you a lot of money since you won’t need to buy a few extra red dots for your guns. We suggest that you get a magnifier that can mount on standard mounting rail systems.
It is also best to consider magnifiers that come with their included mounting systems.
Warranty
Since you have already checked out how durable your magnifier is, you might think that a warranty isn’t necessary anymore. Well, you are somewhat wrong to think so. Warranty is a special extra guarantee for your red dot magnifier’s durability.
There might be some instances that these tools would stop working fine, so you need to find a brand that offers a great lifetime warranty deal. Some brands offer a year up to 10 years warranty. If you’re lucky enough, you may also find some which offer lifetime and even transferable warranties.
Why Buy A Red Dot Magnifier
You need to buy a red dot magnifier if you want to achieve your rifle or firearm accuracy. When you use a red dot sight, it may give you a little hand, but it won’t dramatically increase your weapon’s accuracy rate and your range. With the best red dot magnifier, you can easily sight in your target and save more time, more ammo, and more shots while hunting or target range shooting.
How Do These Work?
The best red dot magnifier best works when attached to non-magnifying red dot sights. These special sighting tools enhance the range and accuracy of your firearms. They also produce a magnified image of your target to enhance magnification and eliminate distortion. Most RDS magnifiers use a Doublet, Triplet or, Achromat Lens System.
RDS magnifiers may be attached permanently, or flip-to-side mounted. When screwed-in style, it could provide 2X magnification by directly threading into the scope’s body. Some RDS magnifiers come with their own mounting system rails, having a 30mm scope ring. Attach these magnifiers at the back of your red dot sight, and you’re good to go.
Are Red Dot Magnifiers Worth It?
Red dot magnifiers are worth it because they enhance your weapon’s accuracy and range when shooting close range to mid-range. They magnify your targets even at long-range shootings, giving you the ability to shoot your target at a safe distance without disrupting your prey. Some magnifiers even offer quick transition mounts wherein the shooter can switch magnification powers in just a few snaps. RDS magnifiers also make your guns more versatile, enhancing your shooting and hunting expedition experiences.
FAQs
With a red dot magnifier, you can shoot as far as 400 yards. It increases the standard 100 yards distance a red dot optic can give to your rifle. Therefore, a red dot magnifier can help you achieve a mid-range to long-range shooting beyond 100 yards, which a red dot scope won’t achieve alone.
Yes, red dots magnify. It helps a non-magnifying scope such as red dot scopes to achieve a generous magnification power for a faster target locking. Most RDS magnifiers come with 3x magnifier scope standard power. It could reach out to the upper end of the 5.56 x 45’s effective range. These special tools also help shooting in low light conditions, as they pull in more light than the red dot optics could pull alone.
Yes, you need to put a magnifier behind a red dot to increase your weapon’s accuracy and range. As red dot scopes are non-magnifying scopes, a magnifier could help magnify your targets from a safe distance.
And Our #1 Red Dot Magnifier is...
Based on research, our team chose our #1 red dot magnifier as the EOTECH G33 because it is one of the most compact and lightweight magnifiers today. EOTECH G33 magnifiers also come with a mount, allowing us to fast-transition switch between 1x magnification – 3x magnifier scope magnification. We find this feature beneficial since we like to hunt fast-moving targets as a challenge.
We also liked how this RDS magnifier offers a large field of view and an adjustable dioptre, which improved our focus while hunting. This magnifier is also durable enough to withstand the extreme pressure of our hunting sprees. We aren’t afraid to let the rain stop us from hunting since this tool has a fog-resistant internal optic and is even submersible up to 10 m.
Our #1 Recommendation
EOTECH G33 Highlights
- It has a flip-to-the-side design
- Has fog-resistant internal optics
- Best for target shooting, tactical training, and hunting
- It has a large field of view.