Primary Arms CLx 1x23mm Push Button Red Dot Sight Review

What Makes Primary Arms CLx 1x23mm Push Button Red Dot Sight Stand Out?

The Primary Arms CLx 1x23mm Push Button Red Dot Sight enters the market as a contender in the micro red dot arena, promising premium performance at an accessible price. Marketed by Primary Arms, this optic features a compact design, wide field-of-view via an aspheric lens, and a solar failsafe for extended battery life. Its aim is to deliver reliability and functionality without breaking the bank, making it an appealing option for a wide range of shooters.

I was in the market for a rugged, reliable red dot that wouldn’t add significant weight to my AR pistol build. Specifically, I wanted something with a long battery life and a clear, crisp dot that I could easily acquire under stress. I was looking to upgrade from a cheaper red dot that had a blurry reticle and chewed through batteries.

Upon unboxing the Primary Arms CLx 1x23mm Push Button Red Dot Sight, I was immediately impressed with its solid feel and compact size. The matte black finish looked durable, and the push buttons felt responsive. The included documentation was clear and concise, adding to the initial positive impression.

I considered the Holosun HS403B and the Sig Sauer Romeo5 before deciding on the Primary Arms CLx 1x23mm Push Button Red Dot Sight. While both are excellent options, the Primary Arms optic’s solar failsafe and reputation for durability swayed me. I was particularly drawn to the promise of an extended battery life and the peace of mind that the solar feature offered.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited by the features and build quality, but I knew the true test would be how it performed on the range. I hoped that it would live up to the Primary Arms reputation for reliability and accuracy.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Primary Arms CLx 1x23mm Push Button Red Dot Sight to the Test

First Use Experience

My first range trip with the Primary Arms CLx 1x23mm Push Button Red Dot Sight was at my local outdoor range on a sunny afternoon. I mounted it on my AR-15 pistol and zeroed it at 50 yards. The initial zeroing process was straightforward, with tactile and audible clicks from the adjustment turrets.

The optic performed admirably in the bright sunlight, the 3 MOA dot remaining crisp and easily visible. I fired several hundred rounds, focusing on accuracy and rapid target acquisition. The Primary Arms CLx 1x23mm Push Button Red Dot Sight allowed for quick and intuitive aiming, proving its worth in a dynamic shooting scenario.

The optic was easy to use right out of the box. I appreciated the simple push-button controls for adjusting brightness and the intuitive menu. There were no unexpected issues, and the optic held zero consistently throughout the session.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Primary Arms CLx 1x23mm Push Button Red Dot Sight has proven to be a reliable performer. I’ve taken it through various drills, training courses, and even a few hunting trips. It has consistently held zero and provided a clear, bright aiming point.

The optic has held up well to normal wear and tear. The finish shows some minor scuffs from handling and storage, but the glass remains clear and scratch-free. I’ve been careful to clean the lens after each use with a microfiber cloth.

Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe-down after each range session is usually all it takes. The battery compartment is easily accessible, making battery changes a breeze. Compared to the cheaper red dot I used previously, the Primary Arms CLx 1x23mm Push Button Red Dot Sight significantly outperforms it in terms of clarity, durability, and battery life.

Breaking Down the Features of Primary Arms CLx 1x23mm Push Button Red Dot Sight

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Primary Arms
• Magnification: 1x – This provides a true 1x sight picture for both eyes open shooting, allowing for fast target acquisition and situational awareness.
• Reticle: 3 MOA Dot – The 3 MOA dot is a good balance between precision and visibility, being small enough for accurate shots while still being easy to see in various lighting conditions.
• Illumination Color: Red – Red illumination is common in red dots and works well in most lighting conditions. However, some users with astigmatism may see a starburst effect.
• Adjustment Click Value: 1 MOA – 1 MOA clicks allow for precise zeroing and adjustments.
• Base/Mount Type: Fixed – This means it uses a standard footprint for mounting, allowing compatibility with various aftermarket mounts for different heights or attachment methods.
• Battery Type: Lithium Metal, CR2032 – CR2032 batteries are common and readily available, contributing to the convenience of this optic.
• Weight: 3.5 oz – The lightweight design minimizes added weight to the firearm, enhancing maneuverability and reducing fatigue.

These specifications combine to create a lightweight, versatile, and user-friendly red dot sight. The 1x magnification and 3 MOA dot are ideal for close to medium-range engagements, while the lightweight and durable construction make it suitable for a variety of applications.

Performance & Functionality

The Primary Arms CLx 1x23mm Push Button Red Dot Sight excels at its primary job: providing a fast and accurate aiming point. The dot is crisp and clear, even in bright sunlight, and the push-button controls are easy to use, even with gloves. The 1 MOA adjustments allow for precise zeroing, and the optic holds zero consistently under recoil.

The primary strength lies in its balance of features and affordability. The solar failsafe is a significant advantage, ensuring that the optic remains functional even if the battery dies. One area for potential improvement is the clarity of the dot for users with astigmatism; a version with a different reticle option, like an ACSS reticle, could broaden its appeal.

The Primary Arms CLx 1x23mm Push Button Red Dot Sight largely meets expectations for a red dot in its price range and even exceeds them with the inclusion of the solar failsafe. Its performance rivals that of more expensive optics, making it a great value.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is impressive for an optic in this price range. The aluminum housing feels robust and well-finished, and the push buttons have a positive tactile feel. At just 3.5 ounces, it adds minimal weight to the firearm.

The design is user-friendly with an intuitive push button for brightness adjustments. I found the optic very easy to pick up and use, with minimal learning curve required.

Durability & Maintenance

The Primary Arms CLx 1x23mm Push Button Red Dot Sight appears to be built to last. The rugged aluminum housing and scratch-resistant lens coating should provide years of reliable service. Regular cleaning and battery changes are all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a lens cloth and periodic battery replacement. The durable construction inspires confidence that it can withstand harsh conditions.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Primary Arms CLx 1x23mm Push Button Red Dot Sight comes with a fixed mount that is compatible with any industry standard base. This opens the door for a wide variety of aftermarket mounts and risers, allowing users to tailor the height and position of the optic to their specific needs. The optic is compatible with any picatinny rail system.

Pros and Cons of Primary Arms CLx 1x23mm Push Button Red Dot Sight

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Who Should Buy Primary Arms CLx 1x23mm Push Button Red Dot Sight?

The Primary Arms CLx 1x23mm Push Button Red Dot Sight is perfect for budget-conscious shooters seeking a reliable and feature-rich optic for their AR-15, pistol, or shotgun. It is also ideal for home defense weapon platforms. Its rugged construction and solar failsafe make it a great choice for those who prioritize reliability.

Individuals who require adjustable height mounts or have severe astigmatism and cannot use red dot sights effectively should skip this product.

A lower 1/3 co-witness riser mount and a high quality lens cleaning kit are useful modifications to consider.

Conclusion on Primary Arms CLx 1x23mm Push Button Red Dot Sight

The Primary Arms CLx 1x23mm Push Button Red Dot Sight is an outstanding value in the micro red dot market. Its durable construction, solar failsafe, and clear reticle make it a reliable and versatile optic for a wide range of applications. At $149.99, the price is more than justified by the features and performance it offers.

I would highly recommend the Primary Arms CLx 1x23mm Push Button Red Dot Sight to anyone looking for a high-quality red dot without breaking the bank. Upgrade your shooting experience today!