First Impressions of Primary Arms The SLx 1x23mm Mini Red Dot Reflex Sight
The Primary Arms The SLx 1x23mm Mini Red Dot Reflex Sight is a compact optic designed for pistol and AR platform use, offering features like a 3 MOA dot, night vision compatibility, and a long battery life. It seemed like a solid contender in the crowded mini red dot market, especially given Primary Arms‘ reputation for value.
My search for a new optic stemmed from the limitations of my aging red dot on my Glock 19; the reticle was fuzzy, and battery life was abysmal. I was looking for something more reliable, with a clearer dot and better runtime, without breaking the bank.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the solid feel of the 7075 aluminum housing. It felt robust and well-made, definitely not like a cheap, flimsy optic.
I considered the Trijicon RMR and Holosun 507k, but the Primary Arms offering presented a compelling price-to-performance ratio. The deciding factor was the promise of a daylight bright dot and night vision compatibility for under $250.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; the build quality seemed excellent, but the true test would be its performance at the range. Could the SLx RS-10 live up to the hype and provide a reliable and accurate sighting solution?
Real-World Testing: Putting Primary Arms The SLx 1x23mm Mini Red Dot Reflex Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Primary Arms The SLx 1x23mm Mini Red Dot Reflex Sight at an outdoor range, mounting it on my Glock 19 using the included Glock MOS adapter plate. The weather was sunny, providing ample opportunity to test the daylight brightness of the reticle.
The dot was indeed daylight bright, easily visible against the bright sky and various target backgrounds. Zeroing was straightforward, with positive clicks on the adjustment turrets.
I did notice a slight flicker in the reticle during rapid firing, which was a bit distracting at first. Despite the initial flicker, the optic held zero throughout the session, and I found the 3 MOA dot to be a good size for both close-quarters and longer-range targets.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the SLx RS-10 has proven to be a reliable optic. I’ve subjected it to various conditions, including rain, humidity, and temperature fluctuations, without any noticeable degradation in performance.
The hard coat anodized finish has held up well, with only minor signs of wear and tear from holster use. Cleaning the lens is simple, and the side-loading battery compartment makes battery changes hassle-free.
Compared to my previous red dot, the Primary Arms The SLx 1x23mm Mini Red Dot Reflex Sight has been a significant upgrade in terms of clarity, brightness, and battery life. It has consistently delivered accurate and reliable performance, exceeding my initial expectations for an optic in this price range.
Breaking Down the Features of Primary Arms The SLx 1x23mm Mini Red Dot Reflex Sight
Specifications
The Primary Arms The SLx 1x23mm Mini Red Dot Reflex Sight boasts a robust set of specifications for a mini red dot. Its 7075 aluminum construction provides excellent durability at a lightweight 1.07 oz.
The 1x magnification and 23mm objective lens offer a wide field of view for rapid target acquisition. The 3 MOA dot reticle is ideal for both pistol and rifle applications, providing a balance between precision and visibility.
The optic is powered by a CR2032 battery, offering an impressive 40,000-hour battery life. It also features night vision compatibility, enhancing its versatility for low-light scenarios.
This red dot is both waterproof and shockproof, ensuring reliable performance in harsh environments. The hard coat anodized finish adds another layer of protection against scratches and wear.
The included Picatinny rail mount and Glock MOS adapter plate provide versatile mounting options for various firearms.
Performance & Functionality
The Primary Arms The SLx 1x23mm Mini Red Dot Reflex Sight performs admirably, providing a clear and bright reticle for fast target acquisition. The 3 MOA dot is well-defined, allowing for precise aiming at various distances.
The optic is reliable, maintaining zero even after repeated firing and exposure to recoil. However, as noted earlier, some users have reported a slight flicker or refresh rate issue with the reticle, which can be distracting for some.
Overall, the SLx RS-10 meets and generally exceeds expectations for a mini red dot in its price range. Its combination of brightness, clarity, and durability makes it a solid performer for both recreational and tactical applications.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Primary Arms The SLx 1x23mm Mini Red Dot Reflex Sight is exceptional, with a rugged 7075 aluminum housing that feels incredibly durable. At just over an ounce, it adds minimal weight to a pistol slide or rifle receiver.
The push-button controls are easy to access and operate, even with gloves. The side-loading battery compartment is a thoughtful design feature, allowing for quick and easy battery changes without removing the optic.
The SLx RS-10 is relatively user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve for those familiar with red dot sights. Its compact size and intuitive controls make it easy to adapt to various shooting styles and platforms.
Durability & Maintenance
The durable construction of the Primary Arms The SLx 1x23mm Mini Red Dot Reflex Sight suggests that it will last for years with proper care. The hard coat anodized finish is resistant to scratches and wear, and the waterproof and shockproof design ensures reliable performance in harsh conditions.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lens with a microfiber cloth. The side-loading battery compartment eliminates the need to remove the optic for battery changes, further simplifying maintenance.
With its robust construction and easy maintenance, the SLx RS-10 is designed to withstand the rigors of regular use and provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Primary Arms The SLx 1x23mm Mini Red Dot Reflex Sight comes with a low-profile Picatinny rail mount, and a low-profile adapter plate for Glock MOS slides. This provides immediate mounting solutions for the most common firearm platforms.
While the optic itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, its Docter/Noblex footprint makes it compatible with a wide range of aftermarket mounts and adapter plates. This allows users to customize the mounting height and platform to their specific needs.
The SLx RS-10 is also compatible with various aftermarket lens protectors and covers, further enhancing its durability and longevity.
Pros and Cons of Primary Arms The SLx 1x23mm Mini Red Dot Reflex Sight
Pros
- Excellent value for the money; offering features typically found on higher-priced optics.
- Daylight bright and night vision compatible brightness levels.
- Rugged 7075 aluminum construction for exceptional durability.
- Long battery life (40,000 hours) with a convenient side-loading battery compartment.
- Includes Picatinny rail mount and Glock MOS adapter plate for versatile mounting options.
Cons
- Some users report a slight flicker or refresh rate issue with the reticle.
- The reticle can exhibit some distortion around the edges of the lens.
Who Should Buy Primary Arms The SLx 1x23mm Mini Red Dot Reflex Sight?
The Primary Arms The SLx 1x23mm Mini Red Dot Reflex Sight is perfect for budget-conscious shooters looking for a reliable and feature-rich mini red dot. It is also a good fit for those who want an optic that can handle both daytime and nighttime shooting scenarios, or someone looking to upgrade a pistol for home defense or duty use.
This product may not be the best choice for competitive shooters who require the absolute highest level of performance and clarity or for individuals who are extremely sensitive to reticle flicker.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality lens cleaning kit to maintain optimal clarity. Consider a dedicated pistol or rifle case to further protect the optic during storage and transport.
Conclusion on Primary Arms The SLx 1x23mm Mini Red Dot Reflex Sight
The Primary Arms The SLx 1x23mm Mini Red Dot Reflex Sight offers an impressive combination of performance, features, and value. While it may not be perfect, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, making it a compelling option in the crowded mini red dot market.
The price is definitely justified; you get a rugged, reliable, and feature-rich optic for a fraction of the cost of some of its competitors. The SLx RS-10 delivers on its promise of providing a clear and bright reticle, long battery life, and durable construction.
I would personally recommend the Primary Arms The SLx 1x23mm Mini Red Dot Reflex Sight to anyone looking for a budget-friendly mini red dot that doesn’t compromise on quality or performance. Upgrade your shooting experience today and see the difference a reliable optic can make!