Are you in the market looking for the best red dot magnifier for AR-15? If you have been browsing through dozens of magnifiers options and find it difficult to choose, you have come to the right place. Read on, as we will also share some of the important features you need to keep in mind when buying the best red dot magnifier for the money.
The red dot magnifier is an excellent addition to any AR-15 with a red dot or holographic scope and adds a lot of versatility to an already very versatile platform.
So what are Magnifiers? Magnifiers are usually used in the so-called “Co-witness,” with red dots or other low magnification optical systems. Two of which are mounted on your firearm and can be used without a magnifying glass; flip the Magnifier and lock it in place; the Magnifier will magnify the red dot.
This comprehensive guide will introduce the role of red dot magnifiers. We will also share how to find the best red dot magnifiers on the market and we will dig out the best price for you.
Best Red Dot and Magnifier for AR15
The best red dot magnifier for the AR-15 rifle should have the best price to performance ratio. As you will quickly find out, the magnifiers we have shared in this list are packed with many features to provide you with the performance you may need for a wide range of shooting applications.
The main aim of this guide is to help you make a well informed purchase. You will not make the expensive mistake of buying a red dot magnifier that is not compatible with the AR-15 rifle.
Towards the end, we will share some of the important features you need to look out for when buying a red dot magnifier.
Without wasting much time, let us get right into it.
1Aimpoint 3x Magnifier – Best Overall
The Aimpoint 3x Magnifier is a 3x power amplifier module designed to meet the needs of professional end-users. 3x Magnifier is optimized with Aimpoint Micro T-2/H-2 and CompM4/M5 series sights or a handheld 3x monocular.
The fixed diopter 3x Magnifier is perfectly matched with the Aimpoint sight, using the red dot of the optical element as the aiming line.
The points in the Magnifier can be centered quickly and easily through intuitive module wind resistance and height adjustment.
The 3x Magnifier can be submerged 3 feet underwater, is fully shockproof, and can withstand temperatures from -40℉ to 131℉. A 7- degree field of view (FOV) can provide a wide field of view picture. This magnifier configuration comes with Aimpoint TwistMount, which can be easily connected to the Picatinny rail (MIL-STD-1913).
The Aimpoint magnifier can be installed behind the Aimpoint sight, so there is no need to reset to zero when switching between non-magnified and magnified aiming.
Features
- It is shockproof and waterproof
- It can be submerged up to 3 feet.
- It has a temperature span of -40℉ to 131℉
Sig Sauer Juliet4 4x Magnifier – Best Value
The Juliet4 4x Magnifier is designed as a stand-alone magnification solution or in combination with reflective optics. This series of magnifiers is an excellent choice for transitioning from short-range targets to medium-range targets.
Combined with reflective lenses, Juliet4 can be adjusted in height by using spacers. It has a PowerCam 90˚ mount, so it can be quickly flipped to the side for more explicit close-up scenes or quickly deployed to zoom the target four times closer.
Its quick-release mount has a built-in recoil lug that can be reset to zero repeatedly. Juliet4 has a front and rear threaded lens protection device from elements.
The Magnifier is super clear, taking your experience to the next level. Pair it with your red dot sight/reflex sight and watch everything unfold.
Features
- It has a PowerCam 90˚ mount
- It has a front and rear threaded lens
- It has a built-in recoil lug
EOTech G33
EOTech G33 red dot scope magnifier is a quick and convenient way to give your professional red dot scope a more excellent range. These red dot sights from EOTech are the first choice for Elite Special Operations Forces in the United States.
They use powerful optical elements to increase the magnification of your chosen red dot by 3 times, greatly extending the range and accuracy of your gun.
The matte black EOTech G33 magnifier is equipped with a switch to side(STS) quick-release stand, allowing the shooter to switch to the unamplified viewing mode by simply pushing the G33 to the side. The STS mount has an optional 7mm riser for mounting raised iron sights.
The EOTech G33 magnifier is lighter and shorter than its previous version, G23. It has tool-free azimuth adjustment and a vast field of view, allowing you to achieve higher magnification without affecting target acquisition.
Use the EOTech G33 Magnifier with an adjustable diopter to enhance the effectiveness of the holographic sight.
Features
- It has a magnification of 3x
- It comes with an improved switch to side(STS) mount
- It features an adjustable diopter
Vortex Optics VMX-3T
VMX-3T is our pick for the best red dot magnifier we have chosen. It combines outstanding performance and reliable price points, making it one of the most valuable products on this list.
Simple, fast, and practical are the three words that accurately describe the vortex VMX-3T magnifier. This 3x Magnifier uses an integrated Picatinny flip mount, which can convert 1x power red dots into extended range 3x optical elements with the push of a button.
The O-ring seals prevent moisture, dust, and debris from entering the tube, thereby achieving reliable performance in all environments.
The hard-coated anodized machined aluminum structure is lightweight and strong to ensure durability, while the nitrogen purge function provides reliable waterproof/anti-fog performance.
Features
- It has a waterproof and fog proof construction
- It features a Picatinny flip mount
- The lenses are fully multi-coated
Bushnell AR Optics Transition 3x Magnifier
The Bushnell AR Optics transition 3x Magnifier fits on a Picatinny rail behind your Bushnell TR-25 or other selected red dot sights. You can flip it in and out of sight using the included smart flip mount.
The optical system provides bright and clear multi-layer coated components and unlimited vision and eye relief.
The device also has horizontal and vertical alignment adjusters to align correctly with the markings of your sight.
The housing is made of aluminum alloy that provides waterproof, anti-fog, and impact resistance to withstand challenging environments and conditions.
The earthquake-proof structure can withstand bumps and drops, as well as the bumpy environment in the field. Its Nitrogen purged anti-fog-Nitrogen in the scope ensures that the internal optical surface will not fog due to rapid changes in humidity or temperature.
Feature
- It is Nitrogen purged for a fog proof performance
- The lenses are fully multi coated
- It features horizontal and vertical alignment adjusters
Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Red Dot Magnifier for AR 15
You can spend between $50 and $1,000 on a magnifier, so you can want to make sure to make most of your hard-earned money. You need a magnifier that will deliver value for the money you spend.
Therefore, the price should not be an obstacle if the magnifier offers reliable performance for your shooting needs.
In this section, we will share some of the important aspects you need to keep in mind when buying the best red dot magnifier for the AR-15 rifle. The main aim of this section is to help you make a well informed purchase.
The following are some of the key elements to look out for in the high-quality red dot magnifier:
Size and Weight
When it comes to magnifiers, please choose a smaller and lighter design. This can help you reduce weight and maintain the balance of the rifle. The increased length will also affect your eye relief.
Eye relief
Eye relief is one of the ways that modern magnifiers are superior to old magnifiers. The two-inch eye distance used to be good. Now you can get an inexpensive magnifier with an eye distance of nearly 3 inches. Getting a magnifier with a longer eye distance is good when all other options are the same.
Short eye relief is more difficult to use and may put your eyebrows at risk of being hit when the gun is back seated. Please note that when comparing magnifiers of the same technical level, extending your eye relief will usually result in a smaller field of view. However, for the red dot sights and magnifiers, a little smaller FOV is not a big problem.
Magnification
Magnification is the most important aspect when choosing a magnifier. Occasionally, you will look at magnification options, with 3x being the most popular option. This is because 3x is the best choice for most rifle shooters.
For this reason, we recommend 3x, unless you have other special needs.
Construction
Please check the construction of all your shortlisted magnification red dot sights. The prices of these accessories range from two to four digits. This means that you may invest a lot of money to make a purchase.
The last thing you want is a fragile model. You need a product that can withstand the wear and tear of shooting activities and reliably serve you for many years.
In this regard, it is always worth checking the warranty of the magnifier.
Conclusion
In summary, we have shared the Best red dot magnifier for AR-15 available in the market today, and if you wish to have a red dot magnifier for your firearm, you have to check our complete guide.
Red dots or holographic sights are a good way to spend up target acquisition and improve accuracy. Although the red dot is very suitable for 3 guns, hunting, home defense, and tactical applications, these convenient optical components have become more versatile by adding a high-quality magnifier.
Nevertheless, even with the best red dot magnifier, you will need to spend a lot of time practicing in the shooting range.
Adding new components to your setup takes some time to adapt. This means that you need some proper training to get the best shooting experience.
We hope that this guide provides you with all the information you need to make a satisfying purchase of the best red dot magnifiers for AR-15.