The middle ground is obviously the prism sight. Essentially, that eliminates the cost-savings benefit of opting for a reflex red dot sight.

However, if you want some versatility or distance of positive identification, you’ll need a magnifier to go with it. Since they have unlimited eye relief, they’re exceptionally suited to close-range work with two eyes open. They’re pretty affordable compared to scopes and the starting costs for quality prism sights. Shooting optics in action - Images by Tina Fa'apoi & Bill Maxwell (Own Work) for Target TamersĪ reflex sight is fast, easy, and simple to use. Where weight might not be so much of a bad thing in a long-range match, it means a lot to the shoulder that’s carrying it around all day in the brush, buildings, or streets.Ī riflescope may be the better option when variable power, distance, and accuracy outweigh the downsides of size and weight. However, a competition rig compared to a duty/patrol rifle or hunting setup is quite a different matter. Though red dots are often used in the hunt and in shooting matches where appropriate, riflescopes offer better tracking and precision especially at distance. Though suitable for the applications listed below, there are some further considerations to deliberate over.Īpplications like hunting, extreme-long range, and competition requires a precise, highly accurate setup. They’re lightweight for short carbines and hunting rifles. It’s excellent for close-range work up to 200 yards but can go the distance with the right reticle and magnification combo. A prism sight is a versatile optic between the reflex red dot and LPVO scope.

Best prism scope for ar15