Red dot sights give you a strong advantage for hitting targets below the 100-yard mark. But there are some occasions where you might wish the sight would work past its 1x magnification setting.
The straightforward answer to this issue is to get a red dot magnifier. The best part is that most modern magnifier designs flip to the side. So, you can make use of the standard magnification setting and the magnified version just by the flick of a finger.
There is a vast assortment of options from which to choose. So, to help you decide on the best option, we’ve put together a list of eight best red dot magnifiers currently available. Let’s go through them and find the perfect magnifier for your needs…
Contents
- 1 Top 8 Best Red Dot Magnifiers Reviews
- 1.1 1 Aimpoint 3XMag-1 3x Magnifier – Best Lightweight Red Dot Magnifier
- 1.2 2 Sig Sauer Juliet 4 Magnifier – Most Versatile Red Dot Magnifier
- 1.3 3 Vortex Micro 3x Magnifier – Best Red Dot Magnifier for Holographic Sights
- 1.4 4 Vortex VMX-3T Magnifier with Flip Mount – Most Durable Red Dot Magnifier
- 1.5 5 Holosun HM3X 3x Red Dot Magnifier – Best Affordable Red Dot Magnifier
- 1.6 6 Bushnell Optics, 3X Magnifier, Matte Black – Best Red Dot Magnifier with Unlimited Eye Relief
- 1.7 7 Firefield 7x Tactical Magnifier – Best Red Dot Magnifier for Holographic and Reflex Sights
- 1.8 8 Primary Arms 3X LER Red Dot Magnifier Gen IV – Best Value for the Money Red Dot Magnifier
- 2 Best Red Dot Magnifier Buying Guide
- 2.1 First, do you need a red dot magnifier?
- 2.2 However, there is one issue…
- 2.3 But do you really need one?
- 2.4 Best Red Dot Magnifier for Long-Range Targeting
- 2.5 Best Tactical Red Dot Magnifier
- 2.6 Best Value Red Dot Magnifier
- 2.7 Speaking of eye relief, which red dot magnifier has the best eye relief?
- 2.8 Looking for more great Sighting options?
- 3 So, what is the Best Red Dot Magnifier?
Top 8 Best Red Dot Magnifiers Reviews
1
Aimpoint 3XMag-1 3x Magnifier – Best Lightweight Red Dot Magnifier
First up, we have the Aimpoint 3XMag-1 3x Magnifier. This can be used to extend the range of your current red dot setup or to observe the field as a handheld monocular.
Built to last…
This red dot sight magnifier is made with a shock-absorbing protective rubber cover that will endure harsh recoil but will also provide an ergonomic grip for one-handed use.
The housing is a hard-anodized aluminum, which gives you the perfect balance between ruggedness and lightweight construction. Plus, it’s encased in a shock-absorbing protective rubber cover. Furthermore, the magnifier can be submerged in water to depths of up to 25 meters. So, it will hold up in harsh weather conditions.
We should point out that the magnifier works best with Aimpoint sights, which is what it was designed for. However, it also works with the majority of other red dot sights out there.
Variable settings and flexible operation…
This device also features variable -3 to +3 dioptric settings, so that you can adjust it to your specific visual requirements.
It is a very flexible and easy-to-install 3x magnification sight that’s hard-wearing and reliable. It will handle any conditions that you throw at it and should ultimately enhance your tactical shooting experience.
Pros
- Can be used as a handheld monocular.
- Rugged/lightweight construction.
- Shock-absorbing rubber cover.
- Submersible up to 25 meters.
- Adjustable dioptric settings.
- 3x magnification.
Cons
- Quite expensive.
2
Sig Sauer Juliet 4 Magnifier – Most Versatile Red Dot Magnifier
The Sig Sauer Juliet 4 Magnifier, with its pivoting design, allows you to easily switch between close-quarter and medium-range targets. This red dot sight magnifier features a quick-release PowerCam Mount that flips swiftly to one side when you don’t want to use it.
Recoil shouldn’t be a problem…
The built-in recoil lugs ensure you’ll retain zero even after removing and reinstalling this magnifier. Plus, there are three height options to choose from.
The magnification setting is 4x, which is a typical go-to setting for most tactical shooters. It’s made from strong yet lightweight aluminum and weighs 12.5 ounces. Therefore, very little extra felt weight will be added to your platform.
Key specs…
The objective lens diameter is 24mm. You get 65mm of eye relief, and the full length of this device is 4.2 inches. The field of view is 6.25 degrees, and the exit pupil is 6mm.
You also benefit from a diopter adjustment of -2 to 2, which means you’ll be able to match the visuals to your specific viewing requirements, with no eyeglasses needed. Furthermore, it’s good to know that this magnifier is tested to be waterproof for up to one hour, and it can be submerged up to 20 meters.
Pros
- Pivoting design.
- Quick-release PowerCam Mount.
- Built-in recoil lugs.
- Lightweight construction.
- Good eye relief.
- Can handle tough use.
Cons
- Doesn’t work well with every red dot sight on the market.
3
Vortex Micro 3x Magnifier – Best Red Dot Magnifier for Holographic Sights
Now we look at the Vortex Micro 3x Magnifier. It comes in matte black, which is good for any tactical shooter or hunter who doesn’t want to give off any glare.
This is a lightweight and compact magnifier that is made to enhance the magnification of your red dot or holographic sight. The Vortex magnifier features fully multi-coated lenses for amplified light transmission. Plus, each Vortex Micro 3x Optic Magnifier will mount at absolute co-witness or at a lower 1/3 co-witness.
Made for the field…
This magnifier is waterproof and shockproof, making it suitable for use in inclement weather conditions and harsh environments. It has a flip-up mechanism built-in, which works smoothly and intuitively, and it’s ambidextrous.
Once the magnifier is flipped down over your red dot, you will have the ability to hit medium to long-range targets quickly and accurately. To ensure super clear visuals at all times, the device has been nitrogen gas purged to prevent fogging.
What’s in the box?
Your purchase includes a rubber lens cover, lens cloth, a 3mm Hex tool, and a lower 1/3 co-witness shim.
Pros
- Machined aluminum construction.
- Waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof.
- Fully multi-coated lenses.
- Ambidextrous flip-up action design.
- Height adjustability options.
Cons
- The eye relief isn’t generous.
4
Vortex VMX-3T Magnifier with Flip Mount – Most Durable Red Dot Magnifier
Here we have the Vortex VMX-3T Magnifier. It comes with a flip-up mount. Plus, the finish is matte black, meaning you’ll have less chance of exposing yourself to glare from this device.
Out in the field…
The Vortex VMX-3T Magnifier uses O-ring seals to prevent moisture, dust, and debris from getting inside the tube. This creates predictable and reliable performance in all environments.
It also has a very simple, fast, and effective push-button design, which allows you to engage and disengage the flip-mount super easily. The magnifier locks firmly into place when being used and provides you with 3x magnification in a split second.
The construction…
This magnifier is lightweight and tough due to its hard-coat-anodized and machined aluminum construction. It’s very durable, and the nitrogen purging consistently delivers fog-proof performance for clear visuals.
Overall, the Vortex VMX-3T Magnifier, along with its flip-up mount, is a versatile choice that can work with virtually any AR-height red dot sight. It weighs 11.9 ounces, gives you a linear field of view of 38.2 feet at 100 yards, and it’s waterproof.
Lastly, you get an unlimited lifetime warranty.
Pros
- O-ring sealed, and nitrogen purged.
- Rapid push-button design.
- Includes a flip mount.
- Lightweight and tough.
- Offers 3x magnification.
- Unlimited lifetime warranty.
Cons
- The eye relief could be better.
5
Holosun HM3X 3x Red Dot Magnifier – Best Affordable Red Dot Magnifier
The Holosun HM3X 3x Red Dot Magnifier was introduced in 2019 and offers shooters excellent value for the money. This relatively new magnifier allows you to seamlessly transition from 1x to 3x magnification. It features an adjustable diopter to dial in your desired focus, exceptionally clear glass, and some very generous eye relief.
Worth mentioning is its integrated QD mount, which has an optional spacer for absolute co-witness and lower co-witnessing.
Is it tough enough?
Tactical shooters and hunters need to have solid and reliable gear. So it’s good to know that Holosun has made this magnifier from a strong and very durable aluminum. Furthermore, the lenses are strong and present vivid clarity so that you can acquire targets quickly.
It is a flip-to-the-side type design, which functions smoothly. It’s also IP67 waterproof, so you can be assured that it will function well in the harshest of conditions.
Great field of view…
The length is a compact 3.9 inches, its height is 2.4 inches, and the width is 1.6 inches. You get a field of few of 37 feet at 100 yards and seven degrees of view angle. Additionally, you can change the diopter settings within a range of -3 to 3. Plus, it operates between temperatures of -22 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pros
- Great value for the money.
- Good eye relief.
- Flip to the side design.
- Integrated QD mount.
- Weatherproof.
- Exceptionally clear visuals.
Cons
- Might not handle heavy recoil well.
6
Bushnell Optics, 3X Magnifier, Matte Black – Best Red Dot Magnifier with Unlimited Eye Relief
Moving on, this sight comes in a matte black, so it won’t give off any glare. It’s of a solid design that pairs well with the Bushnell TRS-25. Yet it should work perfectly fine with any other red dot sight.
This magnifier mounts behind your optic and comes with an ambidextrous flip mount, which works fluidly and effectively in demanding scenarios. And, you can make use of the fast-focus eyepiece for quick tactical targeting.
Construction quality…
It’s made with fully multi-coated optics that provide the optimal light transmission out in the field, even in low light conditions.
And it’s also waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof due to the O-ring seal and purging. So whatever environment you find yourself in, this magnifier will be reliable and ready to serve your needs.
Unlimited eye relief…
You’ll be pleased to know that the eye relief on this sight is unlimited, which is handy for split-second reaction shooting. Plus, it’s a truly lightweight design, weighing just 13.2 ounces.
Lastly, the length of this device is a reasonable and compact 4.2 inches, and the lens diameter is a compact 25 millimeters.
Pros
- Matte finish for glare reduction.
- Ambidextrous flip mount design.
- Fast-focus eyepiece.
- Waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof.
- Fully multi-coated lenses.
- Unlimited eye relief.
Cons
- Clarity may reduce slightly at longer ranges.
7
Firefield 7x Tactical Magnifier – Best Red Dot Magnifier for Holographic and Reflex Sights
The Firefield 7x Tactical Magnifier is a multifunctional weapon accessory and is designed for use with holographic and reflex sights. For red dot sights, the increased magnification will improve your target recognition over medium-range distances.
The 7x Tactical Magnifier also features a very wide field of view, which supports easy target acquisition, and the high-quality multi-coated lenses give you precision accuracy and clarity.
Some specifications…
This magnifier comes in matte black, which is beneficial for shooters who don’t want to give off any glare. It can be mounted with any Weaver-style rail, and it comes with a 30mm Weaver mount.
The objective lens is 32mm, its length is 142.2 mm, and it weighs in at an incredibly lightweight 7.4 ounces. So, you’re not going to feel any added weight on your rifle when this is mounted.
Water, fog, and shockproofing, as well as more benefits…
It’s also IPX6 waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof.
Other benefits include the limited lifetime warranty. Plus, there is a host of accessories added to this package that enhance your user experience.
Pros
- Improves target recognition.
- Wide field of view.
- Fully multi-coated lenses.
- Extremely lightweight.
- Includes 30mm Weaver rail.
- Waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof.
Cons
- It may take a little effort to mount correctly.
8
Primary Arms 3X LER Red Dot Magnifier Gen IV – Best Value for the Money Red Dot Magnifier
Last in our review; we have the Primary Arms 3X LER Red Dot Magnifier Gen IV, which comes in matte black and, therefore, as with most of these magnifiers, works well for glare reduction. It features clear and crisp magnified visuals, and mounts quickly and easily.
One key aspect of this Primary Arms sight is the longer than average eye relief, which will prevent fisheye distortion. You also benefit from azimuth and elevation adjustments, making it easy to focus without obscuring your field-of-view.
Image clarity and magnification…
The magnification is 3x, and there’s an integrated diopter to provide you with fast-focus abilities. This also helps keep the sight image clearer. Furthermore, the sight is built with strong and durable aluminum to keep it functioning predictably over long periods.
Another strong positive for this sight is that it comes with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty. This applies to defects due to materials, workmanship, as well as normal wear and tear.
Overall, given that this magnifier costs a fraction of what others with similar features cost, we think you’ve got a great value buy on your hands here.
Pros
- Clear and crisp visuals.
- Quickly and easily mounts.
- Azimuth and elevation adjustments.
- Long eye relief.
- 3x magnification.
- Excellent value for the money.
- One-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Cons
- Some shooters might not like the height.
Best Red Dot Magnifier Buying Guide
In this section, we will provide you with some tips on how to choose the perfect red dot magnifier for different needs and requirements.
First, do you need a red dot magnifier?
A red dot magnifier is a great addition for tactical shooting platforms with red dot sights because they position your target and the reticle on the same plane. This translates into better accuracy and improved aiming capabilities at the new magnification setting.
The name of the game here is quick target acquisition. Therefore, it’s understandable why military forces and other tactical shooters like to use them.
However, there is one issue…
When the magnifier is in use, it can cause the red dot to become less accurate at shorter ranges. To resolve this, a very simple solution is the flip-up design. This is why we’ve ensured to add flip-up magnifiers to our reviews list.
But do you really need one?
It all depends on the style of shooting you do. If, for example, you usually shoot at targets in the 50 to 300-yard range, then a red dot magnifier has clear advantages. However, if long-range targeting is your priority, you should be checking out long-range scopes.
We’ve looked at eight magnifier choices in this article, but how do you choose which will be best for your needs? Well, here are our favorites for different needs…
Best Red Dot Magnifier for Long-Range Targeting
When you encounter a target from quite a distance, and your 1x red dot doesn’t cut it, you need a magnifier that will flip up and get you locked on-target in seconds. The best long-range magnifier that we’ve looked at in this review is the…
…because of its 4x magnification. Of course, it will be hard to be pinpoint accurate at long-range with just a magnifier. But this Sig Sauer design will give you a much better chance of acquiring targets at long-range, and certainly at mid-range distances.
Best Tactical Red Dot Magnifier
We think the most important factor to consider with the best magnifier for tactical shooters is how quickly it responds to your demands. It also has to be rugged and strong, plus be able to withstand extended exposure to harsh elements. It also helps if you have a wide field of view.
So, when considering all these factors, we think that the…
Firefield 7x Tactical Magnifier
…is a solid tactical shooter’s choice. It does take some effort to get it mounted, but once it’s in place, you get a very clear and crisp wide field of view with 3x magnification. It’s also waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof, meaning it’s likely to serve you well in any conditions.
Best Value Red Dot Magnifier
If you want to magnify your red dot or similar sight affordably, then the best option is to go for the…
Primary Arms 3X LER Red Dot Magnifier Gen IV
It’s from a well-established company. Plus, it usually sells for a fraction of the cost of other magnifiers. However, most importantly, it gets the job done with its 3x magnification. The extra-long eye relief is very welcome. And the one-year manufacturer’s warranty is good for reassurance.
Speaking of eye relief, which red dot magnifier has the best eye relief?
This choice is super easy, as there is one product that fits the bill perfectly. We’re talking about the…
Bushnell Optics, 3X Magnifier, Matte Black
The eye relief on this red dot magnifier is unlimited, making it easy to shoot with from various positions. And since it weighs in at just a mere 13.2 ounces, you won’t have to worry about any extra weight on your platform.
Looking for more great Sighting options?
If so, check out our comprehensive reviews of the Best Red Dot Sights Best Pistol Reflex Sights, the Best Red Dot Sights Shotguns, the Best Glock Reflex and Red Dot Sight, and the Best Gun Lights AR 15 Laser Lights on the market.
Or if you’re looking for a more traditional scope option, take a look at our reviews of the Best Long Range Scopes under 1000 Dollars, the Best Mil Dot Scopes, the Best Air Rifle Scopes, the Best Scopes for AR-15 under 100 Dollars, and the Best Scopes for M&P 15-22 you can buy in 2024.
So, what is the Best Red Dot Magnifier?
We’ve reached the end of our best magnifier for red dots review. And hopefully, you now have a much better grasp on which magnifier could suit your rifle setup and preferred red dot sight.
We think flip-up options are definitely the way to go, as they give you the best of both magnifications with just a flick of your finger.
Therefore, if we had to choose a favorite from all eight red dot magnifiers that we reviewed, our choice would be the…
It has a smooth-pivoting design and built-in recoil lugs. However, remember to research whether it will work with your red dot sight before buying.
So, thanks again, and the very best of luck finding the correct red dot magnifier for your firearm.