What 3x red dot on a budget?

[ldlfh7]

I have been in the market for a 3x red dot for my ar but not sure at which price point is quality not worth buying. I would like to stay under a couple hundred if possibly but do not want to buy a piece of junk. Anyone have any suggestions?

Thanks

 

[Wichaka]

I don't know all the brands for that price point...but staying under a couple hundred for a red dot and not ending up with junk is going to be a bit tough.

Going to 300 you may have a couple choices Vortex and Primary Arms. When you state 3x, I take it you want a magnified optic?

 

[ldlfh7]

Correct, magnification would be preferred.

 

[imashooter]

Probably something in the line of the Vortex Spitfire 3x prism or a Primary Arms equivalent would work just fine without busting the wallet. Curious, why a fixed 3x?

 

[ldlfh7]

The fixed 3X because I want some magnification. Poor eyes need magnification. I have a normal red dot non magnified and I can't hardly see the target out past 50 yards.

 

[Wichaka]

Might look at a variable power optic with a lighted reticle.

 

[imashooter]

There are also some decent, affordable 1-4 / 1-6 optics out there.

 

[Capt.Roll]

I have been in the market for a 3x red dot for my ar but not sure at which price point is quality not worth buying. I would like to stay under a couple hundred if possibly but do not want to buy a piece of junk. Anyone have any suggestions?

Thanks

Have you considered a red dot with a flip to side magnifier? It can help give you best of both worlds; red dot only when up close and personal and good extended range, maybe 200 yards, when you want to reach out and touch something. There are some workable, quality options that will meet your sub $200 criteria.

https://www.at3tactical.com/collect...d-dot-kit-includes-red-dot-riser-3x-magnifier

I have the AT3 Red Dot mounted on an upper that I use for short range training (under 50 yards) and shooting.

 

[ldlfh7]

Ended up going with a variable Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x. This makes more sense than the 3x red dot. Thanks for the suggestions.

 

[imashooter]

That should be a good choice.

 

[larueminati]

Your supposed to look past a red dot with two eyes open, not through the red dot like a scope (which is why I don't get magnification). When done properly the housing of the optic disappears and the dot appears to be on the target itself. Looking through a tiny objective lense magnified red dot is stupid IMO, get an illuminated scope if thats what you're looking for.

The Bushnell TRS-25 is pretty decent for the money. It's the only "budget" red-dot I recommend to people that ask.

EDIT: just seeing you went with a variable. good choice, enjoy.