Primary Arms Optics Buyers Guide – 2026

TL;DR

Start out with the CLx® and SLx® tiers if you’re looking for an entry level optic; they’re some of Primary Arms Optics’ most popular optic lines and have a wide model range that incorporates ACSS® reticles. Step up to the GLx® tier if you’re looking for more of a mid-grade duty-ready reflex sight or prism scope and opt for the PLx® tier when your rifle is built for duty or long-range precision.

• Best Starting Point – SLx: Broadest lineup in the catalog; includes reflex sights, prism scopes, and rifle scopes
• Best Budget Pick – CLx: Most budget-friendly optics in the PAO lineup, built with 6061-T6 aluminum bodies; they carry lifetime warranties too.
• Best Feature Upgrade – GLx: Optics in this tier offer substantially higher glass quality and features including AutoLive® Motion-Sensing Illumination
• Best Premium Optic Line – PLx: PAO’s flagship optic tier, complete with Japanese ED glass, Red Dot Bright® illumination, and professional-grade durability.

Understanding the Primary Arms Optics Tier System

Primary Arms Optics separates their optics into four distinct tiers. And even though all the optics in each tier are worth considering, the PAO tier system helps enthusiasts get an idea of how each one ranks in terms of parts quality and intended use. These four tiers are the CLx®, SLx®, GLx®, and PLx®.

What changes as you move up the tiers is glass quality, feature set (illumination tech, turret design, reticle complexity), and how much abuse the housing is built to shrug off. But, regardless of whether you’re looking at an entry-level CLx optic or a professional-grade PLx optic, all PAO optics are built around the core design philosophy, with each being designed for different applications.

Primary Arms Optics Tier System

Optic Tier	Classification	Summary
CLx®	Entry-level	PAO’s Most affordable tier; made up of various reflex sights and prism scopes built around durable 6061-T6 aluminum bodies.
SLx®	Core Optic Line	PAO’s most popular line of optics with a broad model range that spans everything from reflex sights to high-power rifle scopes.
GLx®	Mid-tier	An innovation-forward tier that incorporates premium features and technology while staying relatively affordable.
PLx®	Flagship	PAO’s flagship optic tier; each optic in this tier is exceptionally durable, uses high-quality Japanese ED Glass lenses, and is packed with premium features.

CLx Tier

The CLx line of optics consists of PAO’s most affordable optics. At launch, this tier released with four optics (the CLx RD-23, MRS, MRSC, and CLx 1-6x24mm SFP Rifle Scope), all built on a 6061-T6 aluminum body and backed by the same lifetime warranty as every other PAO optic. Since the tier’s initial launch, PAO has since expanded the CLx lineup. It now includes multiple reflex sights, prism scopes, and variable power optics with nitrogen purged optic bodies, multi-coated lenses, and a lifetime warranty.

SLx Tier

The SLx tier is the most expansive one offered by PAO, with it having the highest model count of all the optic tiers. For most enthusiasts, it’s the right place to start looking for a new optic. The SLx optic tier is the one that built PAO’s reputation for crafting high-quality optics at competitive prices. Each one is engineered to perform well across a multitude of applications. They can feature a wide range of PAO’s ACSS reticles, but they all come standard with clear glass and a durable construction that holds zero in rough conditions.

GLx Tier

PAO’s GLx tier is the next step above the SLx tier, leaning on more premium features, technologies, and materials. This tier is made up of various reflex sights, prism scopes, traditional rifle scopes, and more. Illuminated GLx optics often come equipped with AutoLive® Motion-Sensing Illumination (a feature that powers down the optic after being still, and powers it on after sensing movement), locking turrets, and — on select models — solar backup that can take the load off of the battery in bright daylight conditions.

PLx Tier

The PLx optic tier is the flagship optic tier offered by PAO. These professional-grade optics are the most premium ones in their lineup, with them making use of Japanese ED (extra-low dispersion) glass, Red Dot Bright® illumination, and highly durable optic bodies engineered to surpass the needs of professional use in harsh conditions. This tier consists of high-quality reflex sights like the PLx HTX-1 Enclosed Pistol Red Dot Sight and premium variable power optics like the PLxC® 1-8×24, PLxC 1.5-12×36, PLxC 2.5-20×48, and PLxC 4.5-36×56 Rifle Scopes. These optics are for enthusiasts who need their optics to be tough enough to handle all extremes. So, if you’re wanting the best of the best PAO offers, the PLx tier is where it’s at.

PAO Red Dot Sights

PAO offers a wide range of reflex sights and red dot sights. Among their carbine-sized models, they offer many unique micro red dot sights, better known as just microdots.

Microdots are a more compact version of the traditional, full-size red dot sight. They have the same inherent advantages as full-size red dots, but they have a much more compact size that makes them a good pairing for multiple platforms ranging from the AR-15/AR-10 to the AK-47 and Pistol Caliber Carbines (PCCs). Being enclosed, the emitter diode is always protected from environmental debris like dust, dirt, and water. Also, they’re affordable too.

Optic	Controls	Reticle Options	AutoLive®	Solar Failsafe	Battery	Mounting Footprint
GLx® MD-21s	Push Button	2-MOA Dot or ACSS® CQB	Yes	Yes	CR2032	H1/T1
SLx® MD-21	Push Button	2-MOA Dot or ACSS CQB	Yes	No	CR2032	H1/T1
SLx MD-25	Rotary Knob	2-MOA Dot or ACSS CQB	Yes	No	CR2032	H1/T1
CLx® RD-23	Push Button	3-MOA Dot	No	Yes	CR2032	H1/T1

GLx MD-21s and SLx MD-21 Push Button Red Dot Sights

Both the GLx MD-21s and SLx MD-21 are based around the same design, albeit with some key differences that distinguish them. They’re similar in that they both use 21mm diameter lenses, push-button controls, mounting footprint, and use commonly available CR2032 batteries. Their differences lie in their feature set. The GLx MD-21s has a built-in solar failsafe unit that greatly extends the optic’s battery life, something that the SLx MD-21 doesn’t have. Both are excellent optics though. They both come equipped with AutoLive Motion-Sensing Illumination and can project either a 2-MOA dot reticle or the ACSS® CQB Reticle. Similarly, they both make use of an H1/T1 mounting footprint, so you can use most aftermarket optic mounts with them too.

Both optics are quite affordable too, with the MD-21s and MD-21 being priced around $230 and $180, respectively.

SLx MD-25 Rotary Knob Red Dot Sight

The SLx MD-25 is another microdot offered in PAO’s lineup. This optic is essentially the predecessor to the SLx MD-21. It has a larger 25mm diameter objective lens, is available with either a 2-MOA Dot or ACSS CQB reticle, and has AutoLive Motion-Sensing Illumination. Rather than using push-button controls, the MD-25 has a rotary knob controlling its illumination. Just like the MD-21s and MD-21, the MD-25 also uses an H1/T1 mounting footprint, allowing you to tap into the optic industry’s vast array of aftermarket optic mounts. Finally, the MD-25 typically costs around $200, making it a top pick for those wanting a more budget-friendly optic.

CLx RD-23 Push Button Red Dot Sight

Even though it’s the most budget-friendly microdot offered by PAO, the CLx RD-23 is still packed with many features. Being part of the CLx line of optics, the RD-23 is an awesome value for those wanting an entry-level red dot sight. Despite its lower cost, it’s still built around a 6061-T6 aluminum optic body, has a built-in solar failsafe unit to extend its battery life, and it uses the popular H1/T1 mounting footprint. Although it doesn’t come equipped with AutoLive, its solar failsafe unit greatly increases its overall battery life. Lastly, this optic comes standard with a 3-MOA dot reticle, and it’s incredibly affordable. You can typically find this optic priced at around $150.

PAO Mini-Reflex and Enclosed Pistol Red Dot Sights

Although most enthusiasts typically associate reflex sights with rifles, they’re also one of the go-to upgrades enthusiasts make to their handguns. Such optics are called mini-reflex sights, and as their name suggests, they’re essentially just smaller reflex sights designed to mount onto the slide of a handgun.

There are two types of mini-reflex sight available: open-emitter mini-reflex sights and enclosed emitter pistol red dot sights. We cover these at length in our guide on Reflex Sights vs. Red Dot Sights, but the core difference between them is their respective durability and field of view (FOV).

Open-emitter mini-reflex sights are a solid choice, but their open-design leaves the emitter diode exposed to dirt, debris, and whatever other contaminants are present in your immediate environment. Despite this, that open design gives them an exceptionally wide FOV, allowing you to see more of what’s around your target.

Enclosed pistol red dot sights are built like rifle-sized ones, with an enclosed optic body and two lenses. This design keeps the emitter diode protected from debris and adds to the overall strength of the optic, making them a great choice for professional applications. This extra durability comes with a slightly narrower, more constricted FOV, compared to open-emitter optics. That said, they’re still excellent optics, and regardless of which one you prefer, PAO has several in their lineup.

PLx HTX-1 Enclosed Pistol Red Dot

The PLx HTX-1 is perhaps the most prestigious reflex sight offered by Primary Arms. Made in America, it’s the first American-made optic they’ve ever created, and it’s built to outlast whatever environments and applications you plan to use it in. These optics are built around a durable 7075 Aluminum enclosed optic body, come standard with AutoLive Motion-Sensing Illumination, are powered by CR2032 batteries, and make use of the ACSS Vulcan reticle system.

Another side of this optic that sets it apart from the many other enclosed pistol optics on the market is its mounting system. Rather than being compatible with just one specific mounting footprint, the HTX-1 uses a patent-pending modular chassis system. Rather than mounting directly to the slide, the optic mounts to a specific chassis. PAO offers several chassis systems, making the HTX-1 compatible with many of the industry’s popular mounting footprints.

It’s worth noting that this is PAO’s most premium mini-reflex sights. As such, it’s priced around $750,

GLx RS-15R Mini-Reflex Sight

The GLx RS-15R is an upcoming, enhanced version of the GLx RS-15, one of PAO’s most popular handgun optics. Designed for full-size pistols, this optic will feature the same open-emitter design that the original RS-15 had. With it, the RS-15R will have a wide field of view, making it perfect for full-size, handguns. Although it will look the same as the original RS-15, it will use a new CR1632 battery and an updated RMR mounting footprint. Regardless of these changes, it’s still going to project the ACSS Vulcan reticle, and it’s going to have AutoLive to extend its usable battery life.

SLx RS-10R Mini-Reflex Sight

The SLx RS-10R is an exceptional budget-friendly pistol optic designed for full-size, carry, and compact pistols. It’s built around a rugged 7075 aluminum optic body and uses an open-emitter design to maximize your FOV. It’s powered by a CR1632 battery that installs from a side-loading gate, and it also comes with AutoLive Motion-Sensing Illumination. Lastly, the RS-10R is available with either a red or green 3-MOA dot reticle, and its use of an RMR/507C-compatible mounting footprint makes it ideal for concealed carry and defensive handgun builds. Plus, these optics are priced around $200.

CLx RS-E Enclosed Pistol Red Dot

Designed for sub- and micro-compact carry pistols, the CLx RS-E is an enclosed pistol red dot sight that punches above its weight class. Powered by a CR1632 battery, it offers an average battery life of 21,000 hours, which is possible with its built-in AutoLive technology. Being an enclosed optic, it’s very durable. Its optic body is made from 6061-T6 Aluminum alloy, and it makes use of premium glass lenses. Also, even though it’s an enclosed optic, it has a large 21x17mm optic window. Plus, it uses an RMSc mounting footprint, making it directly mountable to many of the industry’s most popular carry pistols. The RS-E is also a sub $200 optic, with it being priced around $180. As such, it’s a budget-conscious option for those wanting to upgrade their concealed carry setup.

PAO Prism Scopes

Prism scopes are arguably Primary Arms’ most well-known optics. Prism scopes essentially bridge the gap between smaller reflex sights and larger variable power optics. They offer fixed magnification levels and have etched reticles that remain visible without illumination, something that’s great for enthusiasts with astigmatism.

Although their lack of variable magnification power might sound like a con at first, it allows them to maintain a smaller profile with a lighter weight. This makes it a solid pick for anyone planning to shoot at extended distances—within 300 to 600 yards—but don’t want the added weight of a traditional rifle scope. And much like with reflex sights, PAO has a lot of options in their lineup:

Optic	Magnification	Controls	Reticle Options	AutoLive	Mounting Footprint
SLx 1x MicroPrismT™	1x	Rotary Knob	ACSS Cyclops (Red or Green) ACSS Gemini (Red or Green) T-Dot with RDB™	Yes	H1/T1
GLx 1x MicroPrism™	1x	Push Button	ACSS Cyclops (Red or Green)	Yes	MicroPrism/Mini-ACOG
SLx 3x MicroPrism	3x	Rotary Knob	ACSS Raptor® Variants	Yes	MicroPrism/Mini-ACOG
SLx 5x MicroPrism	5x	Rotary Knob	ACSS Aurora® MIL ACSS Aurora 5.56/.308 Yard	Yes	MicroPrism/Mini-ACOG
CLx 1x Prism Scope	1x	Push Button	Circle Dot (3-MOA Dot, 45-MOA Outer Circle)	No	H1/T1
CLx 3x Prism Scope	3x	Push Button	Cross Dot 5.56 BDC	No	H1/T1

SLx 1x MicroPrismT

The SLx 1x MicroPrismT is a 1x prism that offers a similar level of agility as a red dot sight, and it even shares their compact form factor too. The MicroPrismT is the design evolution of the original SLx 1x MicroPrism™ Scope. It keeps many of the same features, like its durable optic body, clear glass, and rotary knob for illumination. The biggest change implemented on the MicroPrismT is its mounting footprint—it uses an H1/T1 mounting footprint, which is one of the industry’s most common mounting footprints.

These optics come standard with AutoLive, and they can house multiple reticles including both the red and green variants of the ACSS Cyclops and ACSS Gemini reticles. One of the newest reticles these optics can house is the T-Dot reticle. It’s the first PAO Prism Scope to use their RDB™ technology, making its brightness on par with most red dot sights. And as far as price goes, they’re typically priced around $280.

GLx 1x MicroPrism

A direct upgrade over the original SLx 1x MicroPrism, the GLx 1x MicroPrism offers several enhancements that make it a practical choice for harsher use in rough conditions. Compared to the SLx 1x MicroPrism, the GLx 1x MicroPrism has a larger objective lens, a stronger optic body design, enhanced glass lenses, and push-button controls. It can house either a red or green version of the ACSS Cyclops reticle, it uses the original MicroPrism/Mini-ACOG mounting footprint, and it comes equipped with AutoLive to conserve the optic’s battery life. Being a more premium option, it costs a bit more than SLx 1x MicroPrismT, with it being priced around $330.

SLx 3x MicroPrism

One of the top offerings in the SLx MicroPrism line, the SLx 3x MicroPrism is a viable across a multitude of applications. Sharing many features in common with the SLx 1x MicroPrism, it has a fixed 3x magnification level, making it a better choice for ranged use, with it being effective out to 500 yards, depending on your individual skill as a sharpshooter. It retains a smaller form factor and light weight, with it weighing just 7.95 ounces. And, since it’s designed for ranged use, it houses many unique variations of the ACSS Raptor® Reticle. Lastly, these optics are available for around $350.

SLx 5x MicroPrism

The SLx 5x MicroPrism Scope takes the same philosophy as the SLx 3x but extends the usable range even further. Like the other prism scopes mentioned thus far, it has an incredibly small overall footprint compared to its 5x power magnification. As such, it’s a popular optic for rifles of all calibers, with it pairing particularly well on hunting rifles such as lever actions. Feature-wise it’s outfitted with the same durable optic body and clear glass as the other models in the SLx MicroPrism line, but it offers a unique set of reticles to better match its magnification output. It can house either the ACSS Aurora® MIL or the ACSS Aurora 5.56/.308 Yard reticles, and they’re priced around $400.

CLx 1x and CLx 3x Prism Scopes

Both the CLx 1x and 3x Prism Scopes are some of the newest prism scopes offered by PAO, and they’re also the most budget-friendly models in their lineup. Both are built around durable 6061 aluminum optic bodies that are nitrogen purged and waterproof. So, despite them being more of a budget optic, they’re still more-than-capable for use across various applications. Plus, they both have push button controls and intuitive reticle systems.

The CLx 1x Prism Scope has an 18mm objective lens and makes use of a Circle Dot reticle, similar to some red dot sights. The center dot is sized to be 3-MOA, while the outer circle spans 45-MOA. The CLx 3x Prism Scope, by design, offers more ranged versatility. It comes equipped with the Cross Dot MIL-based reticle. Regardless of which one you go with, both work well for first-time AR-15 builders and owners. And, like the MicroPrismT, both also use an H1/T1 optic mounting footprint.

Both of these optics are incredibly affordable. The CLx 1x Prism Scope is priced around $200, with the CLx 3x Prism Scope being priced around $220. As such, they’re some of the most affordable prism scopes offered by PAO.

Primary Arms Optics Magnifiers

Red Dot Magnifiers are a smart choice for those wanting some extra reach out of their rifle without having to sacrifice close-range agility. So, with reflex sights and select 1x prism scopes, many enthusiasts opt to run a magnifier. And in practice, a red dot magnifier is basically just a prism scope without a reticle, most of the time. As such, PAO offers several high-quality options.

SLx 3x Micro Magnifier

One of the most popular magnifiers in their lineup, the SLx 3x Micro Magnifier is a great choice that offers an added 3x magnification to your primary optic. As we noted above, this magnifier is essentially the SLx 3x MicroPrism with a different mounting footprint and no reticle. Because of this, it boasts the same level of durability and has incredibly clear glass. And with its adjustable diopter ring, you can fine-tune its optical clarity to fit your eye and setup. It’s compatible with several popular mounts, including those from Unity Tactical.

Typically, magnifiers don’t come with reticles since they aren’t designed to be a primary optic system. But that didn’t stop PAO from pushing the boundaries of magnifier design. Select 3x Micro Magnifiers are equipped with the ACSS Pegasus Ranging reticle.

The ACSS Pegasus reticle features a ranging ladder, one of the hallmark designs found in many ACSS pattern reticles. It’s positioned to sit lower than your primary optic’s reticle would be. So, you can use both without one interfering with the other. This reticle works especially well with more complex reticle designs like Circle Dot reticles and PAO’s ACSS CQB reticle. It gives you the flexibility needed to really use them to their fullest capability. Lastly, these magnifiers are very compact. They come in at just 2.83 inches long and weigh only 5.3 ounces (without a mount).

These magnifiers are commonly priced around $200 or $220, depending on whether you opt for the ACSS Pegasus Ranging Reticle or not.

GLx 6x Magnifier

If you’re wanting even more reach, the GLx 6x Magnifier is the move. As part of the GLx optic line, this magnifier is equipped with higher quality glass and a more durable optic body than the SLx 3x Micro Magnifier. It is bigger by comparison, but that’s always expected whenever adding magnification to an optic. Outside of this, this magnifier is another awesome choice for those already running reflex sights or 1x prism scopes. Currently, it isn’t available with specialized reticles like the ACSS Pegasus, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth considering.

Out of the box, this magnifier comes outfitted with a 1.41-inch flip-to-side mount, which is compatible with most other optics’ absolute cowitness mount heights. And just like the SLx 3x Micro Magnifier, the GLx 6x Magnifier has a built-in adjustable diopter ring.

It’s also worth noting that this magnifier uses the same mounting footprint as the SLx 3x Micro Magnifier. So, it’s compatible with many popular magnifier mounts. Like we mentioned, this optic is a bit longer and heavier than the Micro Magnifier. It measures 3.9 inches long and weighs 7.2 ounces. Despite this, it’s still relatively compact and light for a 6x magnifier.

With it being part of the GLx line of optics—and with it having a higher magnification—it costs a bit more than the SLx Micro Magnifiers. Still, it’s an incredible value, costing around $300.

Primary Arms Optics Rifle Scopes

To no one’s surprise, Primary Arms Optics makes a lot of unique rifle scopes, ranging from lightweight and compact LPVOs to long-range powerhouses designed to maximize precision at distance. So, no matter what your preferred rifle of choice is, PAO has something for everyone.

First Focal Plane vs. Second Focal Plane

If you’re new to owning variable power rifle scopes, you’ll need to know what the terms “First Focal Plane (FFP)” and “Second Focal Plane (SFP)” mean. Both terms describe where the reticle elements are placed within the scope, which determines how the reticle moves in correlation to the scope’s magnification.

On an FFP rifle scope, the reticle increases in size as you increase the optic’s magnification. This allows every element, like holdover marks, to remain accurate across all magnification levels, though the reticle can be difficult to see at low power settings. On SFP scopes, the reticle stays the same size regardless of what your magnification is set to. Because of this, it’s easier to see all the reticle elements at low power; however, the stadia are calibrated to be used at max power.

Neither type is inherently better than the other; they’re simply better for different applications. Generally, FFP rifle scopes are going to be the better option for more dynamic applications and long-range precision, as they can house more complex reticles that are better tailored for the job. On the flipside, SFP rifle scopes can still be very capable across similar scenarios, but they’re typically favored for less intense use like hunting. At the end of the day, so long as your scope of choice matches your preferences and individual needs, you’ll be good to go.

CLx Series Rifle Scopes

Scope	Focal Plane	Objective Lens	Tube Diameter	Length	Weight	Reticle
CLx 1-6x24mm	SFP	24mm	30mm	10.6 inches	17.21 ounces	ACSS 22LR G2
Classic Series 1-6x24mm	SFP	24mm	30mm	10.6 inches	17.21 ounces	Duplex Dot (2-MOA Center Dot)

CLx 1-6x24mm SFP Rifle Scope

The CLx 1-6x24mm SFP Rifle Scope is a simplistic, entry-level LPVO designed specifically for rimfire rifles chambered in .22LR. Built around a 6063 aluminum alloy optic body, these scopes are fully nitrogen purged, waterproof with an IP67 rating, and they have fog-proof lens coatings, making them a good choice for outdoor use. Being an LPVO, these optics are rather compact, measuring just 10.6 inches long and weighing just 17.21 ounces. Despite its smaller size, it has a 30mm optic tube, creating a lot of room for windage and elevation adjustments. Plus, it’s 24mm objective lens lets in enough light to brighten up your sight picture.

Compared to similar scopes in CLx/Classic Series (which we cover below), this one houses the ACSS .22LR G2 reticle. It uses a BDC-based design that’s calibrated specifically for many popular .22LR ammo loads. It features a center dot aiming point that can be illuminated, auto-ranging and ballistic stadia, and windage holds. As such, this rifle scope pairs exceptionally well with rimfire rifles like the Ruger 10/22, and it’s also incredibly budget friendly, with it being priced around $200.

Classic Series 1-6x24mm SFP Rifle Scope

The Classic Series 1-6x24mm SFP Rifle Scope makes use of the same optic body as the CLx 1-6x LPVO mentioned above. So, it has the same length and weight—10.6 inches and 17.21 ounces—and it features the same 6063 construction, lens diameters, and overall features.

The primary difference between the two is its reticle, as the Classic Series 1-6x LVPO uses a much simpler Duplex Dot reticle. It features a set of wire crosshairs and has an illuminated 2-MOA center dot that allows for some extra agility at close range. Just like the CLx 1-6x LPVO, it’s powered by commonly available CR2032 batteries, and it’s also available for around $200.

SLx Series Rifle Scopes

Scope	Focal Plane	Objective Lens	Tube Diameter	Length	Weight	Reticle Options
SLx 1-6x24mm Gen IV	SFP	24mm	30mm	10.4 inches	17.9 ounces	ACSS NOVA® (MIL or 5.56 BDC) ACSS Aurora® 5.56 Yard
SLx 1-10x28mm	SFP	28mm	34mm	10.5 inches	19.1 ounces	ACSS NOVA ACSS Griffin® M10S
SLx 2-12x40mm	SFP	40mm	30mm	11.5 inches	22.85 ounces	ACSS NOVA MIL
SLx 3-18x50mm Gen II	FFP	50mm	30mm	13.6 inches	32.04 ounces	ACSS Athena® BPR MIL ACSS Apollo® ACSS HUD® DMR .308
SLx 4-16x44mm	FFP	44mm	30mm	10.1 inches	20.5 ounces	ACSS Athena BPR MIL ACSS DEKA G2 ACSS HUD DMR .308
SLx 4.5-27x56mm	FFP	56mm	34mm	13.78 inches	32.6 ounces	ACSS Athena BPR MIL ACSS DEKA MIL® G2

SLx 1-6x24mm Gen IV SFP Rifle Scope

As far as entry-level LPVOs go, the SLx 1-6x24mm Gen IV SFP Rifle Scope is one of the top options to consider. Built around the SLx series design philosophy, it’s constructed with high-quality components and is great for carbines like the AR-15.

These optics are available in multiple configurations, but they all come standard with PAO’s Gen IV upgraded optical system, a built-in throw lever for quick magnification changes, and they are available with ACSS reticles. Plus, they’re remarkably compact, measuring just 10.4 inches long and weighing 17.9 ounces, and they’re also available in multiple finishes too. Being a scope with an SFP design, having a well-designed reticle is important, and these scopes come with either the ACSS NOVA® or ACSS Aurora® reticles.

The ACSS Nova uses a unique Fiber-Wire Reticle design, which blends traditional wire reticle designs with fiber optic tubing. The center dot of the NOVA illuminates incredibly bright because of this, giving you a true Red Dot Bright reticle. Additionally, there are two types of NOVA reticles—there’s a BDC variant that’s calibrated for 5.56 NATO, and a MIL-based variant (the standard ACSS NOVA reticle).

Meanwhile, the ACSS Aurora 5.56 Reticle is another excellent choice that incorporates more elements to make engaging targets out to 800+ yards as intuitive as possible. Currently there are two derivatives of the Aurora 5.56 Reticle available on the SLx 1-6x24mm SFP Gen IV: the Aurora 5.56 – Meter and Aurora 5.56 – Yard. Both use a similar overall design, with them both incorporating BDC holds calibrated for 5.56 NATO and .308 Winchester. However, as their names suggest, they use Meter- and Yard-based measurements, respectively. No matter which one you look at though, they all are priced around $350.

SLx 1-10x28mm SFP Rifle Scope

The SLx 1-10×28 SFP Rifle Scope is another of PAO’s more popular LPVO models, providing more ranged adaptability without sacrificing its 1x low-end magnification. It uses the same durable construction as the 1-6×24, albeit with a larger 34mm diameter optic body that has been extensively tested to ensure it’s capable of withstanding rough use and long strings of fire. Being a 1-10x scope, it is marginally longer and a bit heavier than the 1-6x, but it’s still quite compact and light. It measures just 10.5 inches long (just 0.1 inch longer than the 1-6x), and it weighs 19.1 ounces. This optic also has an integrated throw lever, and it comes equipped with the ACSS NOVA reticle. The 1-10x28mm with the ACSS NOVA reticle is the same one used in its 1-6x counterpart—it’s a MIL-based reticle with a Red Dot Bright center dot that’s great for both close- and medium-distance applications.

These optics are made for enthusiasts of all experience levels, and they’re only priced around $450, making them some of the most affordable 1-10x LPVOs on the market.

SLx 2-12x40mm Rifle Scope

The SLx 2-12x40mm SFP Rifle Scope forgoes the 1x low-end in favor of more power at max magnification. This rifle scope is better suited for those primarily engaging targets at medium distances, though it does still offer good close-range performance thanks to its 2x low-end magnification. Using a 30mm optic body, it’s an excellent choice for long-range AR builds, as well as lightweight bolt-action hunting rifles. It has an 11.5-inch total length, and it weighs 22.85 ounces due to its extra magnification and larger 40mm objective lens. This optic also makes use of the ACSS NOVA Reticle, and is priced around $400.

SLx 3-18x50mm Gen II FFP Rifle Scope

Stepping up to dedicated medium- to long-distance applications, the SLx 3-18x50mm Gen II Rifle Scope is a top pick for both AR-10 style rifles and bolt-actions. Being designed for long range use, these scopes come equipped with a generous 50mm objective lens for optimal light transmission, enhanced windage and elevation turrets that provide greater adjustability, PAO’s Easy-Stop locking zero mechanism, and each of the reticles it can house can be illuminated. This is a bigger optic compared to the ones mentioned thus far, but it has a relatively short length of 13.6 inches and a manageable 32.04-ounce weight. As far as reticles go, this optic can come equipped with either the ACSS Athena® BPR MIL, ACSS Apollo®, or the ACSS HUD® DMR .308.

The ACSS Athena BPR MIL is a MIL-based reticle that’s compatible with all calibers, so long as you know how to measure ballistic data using MILs. It combines an infinitely precise center chevron aiming point, crosshairs with 0.1-MIL subtensions, and a MIL grid. Combined, you can use each of these elements to accurately land hits on targets out to 1,000 yards away.

If you would prefer a BDC reticle, the ACSS Apollo is a smart pick. Calibrated for .308 Winchester and 6.5 Grendel, it features a series of BDC holds, windage and moving target leads, as well as an infinitely precise center chevron aiming point.

Lastly, this optic can also come with the ACSS HUD DMR .308 Reticle. As its name suggests, this reticle was developed specifically for .308 Winchester, although it is compatible with select 5.45x39mm and 6.5 Grendel loads. One of its more unique features is its holdover design. It features a BDC grid below the center chevron aiming point that can range out to 1,000 yards, as well as detailed wind and moving target holdover points.

Each optic in this line is priced around $500.

SLx 4-16x44mm FFP Rifle Scope

Designed to blend adaptability with a compact footprint, the SLx 4-16x44mm FFP Rifle Scope is one of the newest entrants in the SLx line of optics. While it doesn’t offer as much power as the 3-18x mentioned above, it still has the magnification to go the distance when needed, and its 4x power setting is great for closer-range use too. Part of what makes this optic so alluring is its size.

These optics are incredibly compact, despite their 4-16x magnification range. The SLx Compact 4-16x scope has an overall length of just 10.1 inches, and it only weighs 20.5 ounces. This makes it a fair amount smaller than many other optics of the same power, making it a good choice for everything from AR platform rifles to bolt actions. Their 44mm objective lenses can gather a lot of light, and they even have 30mm optic bodies too, making them compatible with most aftermarket mounts.

One other notable feature of this line of optics is their reticles. Just like the SLx 3-18x scope, they’re available with either the ACSS Athena BPR MIL, ACSS DEKA G2, or the ACSS HUD DMR .308. And since these scopes are tested to the PAO standards, they’re ready for nearly every application. Lastly, they’re priced around $400, making them a worthwhile addition to most rifle builds.

SLx 4.5-27x56mm FFP Rifle Scope

Rounding out the SLx rifle scope lineup is the new SLx 4.5-27x56mm FFP Rifle Scope, the high-power scope designed to offer long-range precision without breaking the bank. It’s currently the most powerful optic in the SLx line, complete with a 4.5-27x magnification range and an impressive 56mm objective lens for superior light transmission. It has a 34mm optic tube, giving it 32 MILs of elevation travel. It boasts the same waterproof and fog-resistant construction as the other SLx optics, and pairs well with larger bolt-action rifles. Given its magnification range, it is the largest of the SLx series optics, with it measuring 13.78 inches and weighing 32.6 ounces.

Like the SLx 3-18×50 rifle scope, the SLx 4.5-27×56 rifle scope also houses the ACSS Athena BPR MIL reticle. Sharing the same design, it has several elements that make it a solid pick for long-distance precision. Plus, with the higher power afforded by this scope, you can more easily get an image of your target while still having access to your reticle’s core elements.

The Athena BPR MIL G2 is an excellent reticle, but it’s not the only one that’s available on the SLx 4.5-27x rifle scope. It’s also available with the ACSS DEKA MIL® G2, a MIL-based reticle with a more simplistic design. Rather than having a full MIL grid, the DEKA MIL reticle relies on its crosshairs. Along both its vertical and horizontal crosshair stadia lines are a series of hashmarks spaced 0.1 MILs apart. And with it using a fine, 0.1-MIL dot as its center aiming point, it offers a clean sight picture that’s less cluttered at distance.

With this scope being the most powerful of the SLx line of optics, it is a bit pricier compared to the rest. That said, it’s still reasonably affordable, with it costing around $500.

PLx Series Rifle Scopes

Scope	Focal Plane	Objective Lens	Length	Weight	Turrets	Reticle Options
PLxC 1-8x24mm FFP	FFP	24mm	9.28 inches	16.95 ounces	SOS® (Steel on Steel)	ACSS Raptor 5.56 Yard G2 ACSS Griffin MIL G2
PLxC 1-8x24mm SFP	SFP	24mm	9.28 inches	16.8 ounces	SOS	ACSS NOVA – PLx
PLxC 1.5-12x36mm FFP	FFP	36mm	9.75 inches	19.67 ounces	SOS	ACSS Griffin MIL G2 ACSS Raptor 5.56 Yard G2
PLxC 2.5-20x48mm FFP	FFP	48mm	11.5 inches	30.05 ounces	Interchangeable Cartridge (EZ-Stop Elevation, Basic Windage)	ACSS Athena BPR MIL G2 ACSS DEKA MIL® G2
PLxC 4.5-36x56mm FFP	FFP	56mm	14.49 inches	34.33 ounces	Interchangeable Cartridge (EZ-Stop Elevation, Basic Windage)	ACSS DEKA MIL G2 ACSS Neptune®

PLxC 1-8x24mm FFP Rifle Scope

One of the most iconic optics offered by PAO, the PLxC 1-8x24mm FFP RDB Rifle Scope is a professional-grade LPVO that’s been engineered to be as durable and utilitarian as possible. It’s one of the more compact optics of its class, at just 9.28 inches long and light, with 16.95 ounces. It comes standard with premium Japanese ED Glass, SOS® (Steel on Steel) turrets, AutoLive technology, and a waterproof, shock resistant, and fog resistant construction. As of publishing, this scope is available with either the ACSS Raptor 5.56 Yard G2 or the ACSS Griffin MIL G2.

The ACSS Raptor 5.56 Yard G2 is a BDC reticle that’s equipped with PAO’s RDB center chevron and horseshoe. Calibrated for 5.56 NATO and .308 Winchester, it offers a full suite of vertical and horizontal ranging stadia, windage holds, and moving target leads to maximize its adaptability. At 1x power, the RDB elements are small enough and bright enough to create a red dot-like appearance, giving you nearly as agile an optic, while still having effective ranged capability. At max power, all the reticle elements come into view, allowing you to easily land hits on targets out to 800 yards away.

If you prefer MIL-based reticles, the ACSS Griffin MIL G2 is worth considering. This reticle also features an RDB chevron and horseshoe, but the ACSS Griffin reticle has a full MIL grid instead of BDC holds. So, if you know how to use MILs, it’s an excellent possibility to consider. Plus, this reticle keeps the vertical and horizontal ranging stadia too.

It’s worth noting that these optics are the most premium LPVOs offered by PAO. As such, they’re priced around $1,750.

PLxC 1-8x24mm SFP Rifle Scope

The PLxC 1-8x LPVO is also available in an SFP configuration. It has the same dimensions, features, overall quality, and a marginally lighter weight (16.8 ounces instead of 16.95) compared to the FFP version. The significant difference is its focal plane, which allows it to use the popular ACSS NOVA reticle. In fact, it houses the ACSS NOVA – PLx, a reticle exclusive to this optic.

The ACSS NOVA – PLx reticle is essentially a more detailed, MIL-based version of the standard NOVA reticle. Like the original, the NOVA – PLx uses a fiber-wire construction, giving it an exceptionally bright center dot that functions like a red dot sight at 1x power. The vertical stadia line below the center dot is lined with target ranging subtensions that range out to 600 yards, with the top of the bold crosshair being the 800-yard hold. The horizontal and upper vertical stadia are lined with MIL-based subtensions.

Despite having many of the same features as its FFP counterpart, the PLxC 1-8x SFP Rifle Scope has a lower price. It’s priced around $1,000, making it the most affordable PLx series rifle scope offered by PAO.

PLxC 1.5-12×36 FFP RDB Rifle Scope

Moving up the ranks of the PLxC catalog, you’ll find the PLxC 1.5-12×36 FFP Rifle Scope, one of the most unique rifle scopes currently offered by PAO. Although it shares a similar form factor and magnification range as many LPVOs, the PLxC 1.5-12x is more of an MPVO (Medium-Power Variable Optic). Even with its change in classification, it’s still remarkably adaptable and compact for an optic of its type. It boasts the hallmark durability and clear glass of the PLx line, and it also has a strikingly compact size and light weight with it measuring just 9.75 inches long and weighing 19.67 ounces. Additionally, even though it doesn’t offer 1x power, it’s still incredibly agile at close range, as 1.5x power is right in the sweet spot that allows you to easily aim with both eyes open. Plus, with the top-end 12x magnification, you can go the distance when needed.

Reticle-wise, it can house either the ACSS Griffin MIL G2 or the ACSS Raptor Yard G2, just like the PLxC 1-8x mentioned above. No matter which one you go with, both options are kitted out with PAO’s RDB reticle technology. So, the illuminated portions of the reticle will rival the brightness of reflex sights.

We cover this optic in-depth in our guide, “The PLxC 1.5-12×36 is Here”, give it a read if you’re thinking about getting one. Also, you’ll typically find these optics priced around $2,000 on our site.

PLxC 2.5-20x48mm FFP Rifle Scope

Announced at SHOT Show 2025 and released this year (2026), the PLxC 2.5-20x48mm FFP Rifle Scope is one of PAO’s most innovative optics they’ve offered. Like the earlier PLx optics above, it’s immensely durable, and is built to withstand harsh use in even worse conditions. But one of its most striking features is its magnification range. It has an impressive 2.5-20x magnification range, giving you the adaptability needed to engage targets at both close- and long-range. As such, these optics pair well with specialized semi-auto builds like SPR- and DMR-style ones, though it’s right at home on precision bolt-action builds as well.

One of the most innovative features introduced on this optic is PAO’s all-new Interchangeable Cartridge Turrets. Both the elevation and windage turrets are user configurable. Depending on what kind of features you want, or what caliber your rifle is chambered in, you can swap out the turrets for others with unique features. Out of the box, these optics come equipped with PAO’s EZ-Stop Elevation Turret, which has a built-in mechanical zero-stop feature. It also comes with PAO’s Basic Windage Turret. As of publishing this article, these are the only turrets available for this scope, but PAO plans to release more in the future.

Finally, this optic can come equipped with two familiar reticle designs: the ACSS Athena BPR MIL G2 and the ACSS DEKA MIL G2. Both offer incredible long-range performance, with the Athena BPR MIL G2 reticle having more flexibility for complex shots at distance thanks to its added details. That said, the simpler design of the DEKA MIL G2 reticle is great for those wanting less clutter at distance. Either way, you can’t go wrong, no matter which one you choose.

There’s a lot to unpack with this optic. If you’re considering it, we recommend checking out our guide, “PLxC 2.5-20×48: Compact Long-Range Optic”. Finally, being one of the most premium optics in the PAO lineup, these rifle scopes are typically priced around $2,300.

PLxC 4.5-36x56mm FFP Rifle Scope

Announced alongside the PLxC 2.5-20x, the PLxC 4.5-36x56mm FFP Rifle Scope is PAO’s flagship long-range rifle scope. At its low end, it offers 4.5x magnification, allowing you to more easily engage targets at closer ranges. At the top, it provides you with an incredible 36x magnification, more than enough to positively identify targets at ranges up to and beyond 1,000 yards. Just like the PLxC 2.5-20x, this scope is special for more than just its magnification range; it measures just 14.49 inches long, and it weighs 34.33 ounces. Its shorter length makes the optic’s balance quite nice, making it a solid pick for dedicated long-range rifle builds.

This optic also features PAO’s new interchangeable cartridge turret design. It comes standard with their EZ-Stop Elevation Turret and their Basic Windage Turret out of the box. Just like with the PLxC 2.5-20x, PAO plans to release more cartridge turrets in the future to give you the ability to tailor your scope to your specific rifle build.

What really sets this optic apart from PAO’s other long-range scopes is its reticle selection. It’s available with two reticles, one of which is the previously mentioned ACSS DEKA MIL G2—it offers the same advantages as it does on the PLxC 2.5-20x, but you’ll have more flexibility with it since the PLxC 4.5-36 has more magnification. However, new to the ACSS Reticle Family and made specifically for the PLxC 4.5-36x scope is the ACSS Neptune®, a highly detailed MIL-based reticle that’s designed for long-range precision.

The ACSS Neptune has an exceptionally fine 0.05-MIL center dot aiming point that’s surrounded by crosshairs with hash marks spaced 0.1 MILs apart. Below the center dot is a Christmas Tree-Style MIL Grid that’s dotted with several hash marks and ‘+’ markers that stand for various holdover points. Each full square in the grid spans a full MIL in both length and width, with the grid in its entirety spanning 6 MILs in total length. The sheer number of elements in this reticle make it more-than-worth considering if you’re planning to use your rifle for long-distance precision applications.

If you’re interested, we also have another guide, “A Closer Look at the PLxC 4.5-36×56 FFP Rifle Scope”, that offers a more in-depth look into this scope and its features. With these optics rounding out the PLx line from PAO, they are the most expensive and premium scopes they offer. They’re priced around $2,500, and for that price, you get one of the industry’s most advanced high-power rifle scopes.

Primary Arms Optics Binoculars

Binoculars are a tool that everyone should have. They can be used across multiple scenarios, ranging from hunting to recreational range trips. Within the optic industry, there are several excellent models to pick from, and Primary Arms offers two unique models.

Starting with the SLx 10x42mm Binoculars, they’re affordable and very utilitarian. Like the other optics in the SLx line, these binoculars go through a series of strict quality control measures and are engineered to be waterproof and shockproof. These binos have a fixed 10x magnification and a 309-foot FOV at 1,000 yards. Their 42mm objective lenses bring in more than enough light to brighten up your sight picture. On top of this, they’re rather compact at just 5.6 inches long and 5 inches wide. And with them weighing just 20.7 ounces, they can be comfortably kept on body with the included neoprene neck strap and stored easily in the included soft case.

If you want more of a premium set of binoculars, the GLx 10x42mm ED Binoculars are well-worth the extra cost. Visually, they share a lot in common with its SLx series counterpart, but it comes equipped with a few upgrades. Mainly, they offer a far wider FOV at 1,000 yards. Instead of 309 feet, you get a 341-foot FOV at 1,000 yards. In addition to this, they also make use of higher quality glass lenses that are fully multi-coated for optimal clarity. It is a bit heavier than the SLx variant as it weighs 23.74 ounces, but it’s still around the same size—5.5 inches long and 5 inches wide. Plus, it still comes with a soft case and a neck strap.

Both of these binoculars are a useful tool to have on hand or in a range kit. And with them being priced around $130 and $260, respectively, they offer a lot of utility for the price.

Primary Arms Optics Scope Mounts

No matter how good an optic is, it’s no good without a quality mount. And fortunately, PAO offers an assortment of them for both their own optics and others, the most notable of which are their scope mounts. PAO Scope Mounts are available in all types and sizes. And like their optics, they’re available in multiple tiers, including their Deluxe Mounts (commonly filtered under the CLx tier), SLx, GLx, and PLx tiers.

In the Deluxe Mount series, you’ll find a variety of one-piece scope mounts that can fit 1-inch and 30mm rifle scopes. Being more budget-friendly, these mounts cost fairly. They don’t have many unique features when compared to the other models, but they’re made from 6061 aluminum, and offer enough clamping pressure to keep your optic mounted to your rifle with no issues. Plus, these are the most affordable scope mounts PAO offers, with them priced around $60.

SLx scope mounts are machined down from 6061-T6 aluminum billets and use a more rigid mounting system. Instead of the more standard two-bolt mounting design used on PAO’s Deluxe Mounts, SLx scope mounts use steel hardware and have a three-bolt mounting design that offers 6,500 pounds of clamping force. Its dual-machined recoil lugs will keep your scope zeroed after heavy strings of fire or impacts, and these mounts are available in both a 30mm and 34mm size with varying heights. These mounts are priced around $90.

GLx scope mounts are 100% American-made and machined from 6061-T6 aluminum. It has a skeletonized design, and like the Deluxe Mounts, they use a two-bolt mounting system. Even though the mounting system is scaled back a bit, it’s still secure enough to keep your optic in place. Typically, you’ll find these mounts priced around $120.

PAO’s PLx scope mounts are the most premium one-piece scope mounts in their lineup, and like the GLx mounts, they’re made in America. Just like how the PLx optic tier consists of PAO’s flagship optics, it also is the home to their flagship scope mounts. PLx Scope Mounts are made from a tougher 7075 aluminum alloy, and they also make use of a three-bolt mounting system. They offer the most strength and rigidity out of all PAO’s scope mounts, and they even have a proprietary Electroless Nickel Coating for better abrasion resistance. Just like the other mounts, they’re also available in multiple heights and cants. Being the most premium and most durable mounts offered by PAO, they’re priced around $290.

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