Primary Arms SLx Advanced Push Button Microdot 1x20mm 2 MOA Red Dot Sight Review

Let’s Talk About Primary Arms SLx Advanced Push Button Microdot 1x20mm 2 MOA Red Dot Sight

The Primary Arms SLx Advanced Push Button Microdot 1x20mm 2 MOA Red Dot Sight is a compact and lightweight optic designed for a wide range of firearms. Manufactured by Primary Arms, this red dot offers a balance of durability, functionality, and affordability. I’ve spent over a decade working with various optics, and I’m always on the lookout for reliable gear that doesn’t break the bank.

I was looking for a small, rugged red dot sight for my AR-9 pistol build, something that wouldn’t add excessive weight or bulk. My primary goal was to find an optic that could withstand the rigors of regular range use and potentially serve as a backup on my patrol rifle. The Primary Arms SLx Advanced Push Button Microdot caught my eye because of its reputation for reliability and its reasonable price point.

Unboxing the Primary Arms SLx Advanced Push Button Microdot, my initial impression was positive. The sight felt solid and well-constructed, and the hardcoat anodized finish looked durable. The push-button brightness controls were intuitive, and the 2 MOA dot appeared crisp and clear.

I considered other red dots in this price range, like the Sig Sauer Romeo5 and the Vortex Crossfire. Ultimately, I chose the Primary Arms offering because of its reputation for better durability and the more streamlined push-button design compared to the rotary dial on some competitors. I was excited to see how this little optic would perform in real-world scenarios.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Primary Arms SLx Advanced Push Button Microdot 1x20mm 2 MOA Red Dot Sight to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Primary Arms SLx Advanced Push Button Microdot at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was sunny and clear, providing ideal conditions for sighting in the optic. I mounted it on my AR-9 pistol and began the zeroing process at 25 yards.

The optic performed admirably, providing a clear and easily visible red dot even in bright sunlight. Adjustments were straightforward, with audible clicks for each 0.5 MOA increment. After only a few shots, I had the optic zeroed and was consistently hitting center mass.

I encountered no immediate issues with the optic’s performance. The push-button brightness controls were easy to use even with gloves on, and the dot remained crisp and clear throughout my initial testing session. I was impressed by the sight’s ability to maintain zero even after firing several hundred rounds.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Primary Arms SLx Advanced Push Button Microdot continues to impress me. I’ve used it in various conditions, including rain and high humidity, and it has performed flawlessly. The IP67 waterproof rating gives me confidence that it can handle almost any weather condition.

The hardcoat anodized finish has proven to be quite durable, showing only minor signs of wear and tear despite being subjected to regular use and handling. Cleaning the optic is simple, requiring only a soft cloth to wipe away dust and debris. The lenses remain clear and scratch-free.

Compared to other budget-friendly red dots I’ve used in the past, the Primary Arms SLx Advanced Push Button Microdot definitely outperforms them in terms of reliability and durability. It instills confidence, and it’s nice not having to worry if your optic will fall apart or lose zero at any given moment. I am confident in this optic, which is very important in my line of work.

Breaking Down the Features of Primary Arms SLx Advanced Push Button Microdot 1x20mm 2 MOA Red Dot Sight

Specifications

• The Primary Arms SLx Advanced Push Button Microdot features a 1x magnification. This provides a true, unmagnified view, perfect for close to medium range engagements and maintaining situational awareness.
• It has a 20mm objective lens diameter. This offers a wide field of view while keeping the optic compact and lightweight.
• The reticle is a 2 MOA dot. This size is small enough for precise aiming yet large enough to be quickly acquired in dynamic situations.
• It provides 12 brightness settings. This includes daylight bright settings and two night vision compatible settings, offering versatility in varying lighting conditions.
• Adjustment click value is 0.5 MOA. This allows for precise zeroing adjustments, ensuring accuracy at various distances.
• The emitter type is enclosed, and the battery type is lithium, with a battery quantity of 1. The battery life is an impressive 50,000 hours, maximizing operational readiness.
• This product is built from aluminum with a hardcoat anodized finish. This ensures durability and resistance to corrosion.
• The sight features weather resistance and is dustproof with a water resistance level of IP67. This rating makes it extremely robust in adverse environmental conditions.
• It is both shockproof and fogproof. The shockproof nature means it can handle recoil and impacts, and the fogproof feature maintains visibility in humid conditions.
• This optic is compatible with the AR Platform, specifically the AR-15. It is an ideal choice for AR-15 platforms and similar modern sporting rifles.
• The length is 2.35 inches, and the weight is 3.8 oz. These compact dimensions ensure it doesn’t add excessive weight to your firearm.
• It uses a picatinny mount and is attachment-ready. This provides compatibility with a wide range of firearms and mounting solutions.

These specifications matter because they directly influence the optic’s performance, durability, and usability. The lightweight and compact design makes it easy to handle, while the long battery life ensures it’s always ready when needed. The robust construction and weather resistance provide peace of mind in demanding environments.

Performance & Functionality

The Primary Arms SLx Advanced Push Button Microdot excels in its primary function: providing a fast and accurate aiming solution. The 2 MOA dot is easy to acquire and precise enough for accurate shots at reasonable distances. The push-button brightness controls are intuitive and allow for quick adjustments to adapt to changing lighting conditions.

One of the strengths of this optic is its ability to maintain zero even after repeated use and exposure to recoil. The adjustments are precise and repeatable, making it easy to fine-tune the zero as needed. The optic also offers a clean sight picture, with minimal distortion or reflection, even at the highest brightness settings.

One potential weakness is the lack of an auto-shutoff feature. While the 50,000-hour battery life is impressive, an auto-shutoff would further extend battery life and prevent accidental battery drain. Overall, the Primary Arms SLx Advanced Push Button Microdot meets and exceeds my expectations for a budget-friendly red dot sight.

Design & Ergonomics

The Primary Arms SLx Advanced Push Button Microdot features a streamlined and functional design. The aluminum construction feels solid and durable, and the hardcoat anodized finish provides excellent protection against scratches and wear. The optic is lightweight and compact, making it comfortable to use on a variety of firearms.

The push-button brightness controls are well-placed and easy to access, even with gloves on. The integrated turret adjustment tab on the removable turret caps is a thoughtful touch, allowing for convenient windage and elevation adjustments without needing a separate tool. There is virtually no learning curve to this optic.

Durability & Maintenance

The Primary Arms SLx Advanced Push Button Microdot is built to last. The robust aluminum construction and hardcoat anodized finish provide excellent resistance to impacts, scratches, and corrosion. The IP67 waterproof rating ensures that it can withstand exposure to rain, snow, and other harsh environmental conditions.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft cloth to remove dust and debris. The lenses are scratch-resistant and easy to clean. I expect this optic to provide years of reliable service with minimal maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Primary Arms SLx Advanced Push Button Microdot is compatible with industry-standard micro red dot bases, offering a wide range of mounting options. This includes compatibility with Aimpoint Micro pattern mounts and other popular mounting solutions. The optic also features ARD accommodations, allowing for the use of aftermarket anti-reflection devices.

While the Primary Arms SLx Advanced Push Button Microdot doesn’t come with a lot of accessories, its compatibility with popular mounting systems makes it easy to customize to fit your specific needs.

Pros and Cons of Primary Arms SLx Advanced Push Button Microdot 1x20mm 2 MOA Red Dot Sight

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Who Should Buy Primary Arms SLx Advanced Push Button Microdot 1x20mm 2 MOA Red Dot Sight?

The Primary Arms SLx Advanced Push Button Microdot is perfect for:

• AR-15 owners looking for a reliable and affordable red dot sight.
• Home defense enthusiasts who need a compact and always-ready optic.
• Law enforcement officers seeking a durable and dependable backup sight.
• Hunters and recreational shooters who want a lightweight and easy-to-use optic.

Who should skip this product?

• Competitive shooters who require a larger field of view or more advanced features.
• Users who prioritize automatic brightness adjustment or advanced reticle options.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• A quality picatinny riser mount to achieve optimal co-witness with iron sights (depending on your firearm).
• Lens covers to protect the lenses from dust and scratches.

Conclusion on Primary Arms SLx Advanced Push Button Microdot 1x20mm 2 MOA Red Dot Sight

Overall, the Primary Arms SLx Advanced Push Button Microdot 1x20mm 2 MOA Red Dot Sight is an excellent value for the money. It offers a compelling combination of durability, functionality, and affordability, making it a great choice for a wide range of users. The rugged construction, long battery life, and clear reticle make it a reliable optic for both recreational and professional use.

The price is definitely justified, considering the features and performance offered by this optic. It provides similar performance to more expensive red dot sights at a fraction of the cost. I would personally recommend the Primary Arms SLx Advanced Push Button Microdot to anyone looking for a quality red dot sight on a budget.

If you’re in the market for a reliable and affordable red dot sight, I highly recommend giving the Primary Arms SLx Advanced Push Button Microdot a try. You won’t be disappointed. It provides all of the rugged features of higher-end optics without breaking the bank.