Red Dots VS Prism Scopes | Optics Trade Debates

By Polona Kraner Jul 2, 2018

Welcome to Optics Trade debates. In each episode, we will talk about a different topic and try to answer the most common questions we receive about it. Today, we are going to talk about the differences between red dots and prism scopes, why and how we should use one and the other and their main purpose.

Watch our Red Dots VS Prism Scopes Video

What is the Difference Between a Red Dot and a Prism Scope?

Both red dot sights and prism scopes are used for CQB, which stands for Close Quarter Battle. These are two different concepts for a very similar purpose.

The first main difference is in the magnification. Red dot sights operate at 1x magnification while prism scopes operate either at 1x, 2x, 3x, 4x, or 6x magnification. We can compare red dots with prisms scopes which operate at 1x magnification.

Red dots do not have a reticle, they only have a dot floating in the field of view. Prism scopes have a reticle which is etched onto the glass.

Illumination with both can be in two colours. With prism scopes, it is common that you can switch between the red and green colour. With red dots, the trend of offering the illumination in green is now coming to the stage.

Prism Scope Advantages

The advantages of prism scopes are diopter setting, an integrated mount, the option of ordering it with a magnification other than 1x, and a reticle etched onto the glass with holdover points for bullet drop compensation.

Looking for a Prism Scope?

Red Dot Sight Advantages

The advantages of red dot sights are unlimited eye-box and eye-relief that allow the user to shoot even if he or she is not in a perfect position to shoot, faster shooting at close range; smaller, more compact design and the ability to look through them with both eyes open.

Interested in Red Dot Sights?

How Far can your Shoot?

Basically, red dots are for close range while with prism scopes the user can shoot at close to medium range.

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