Today we will show you the best 3X prism scopes for CQB. Close-quarters battle is one of the deadliest fighting conditions you might encounter and to emerge victorious from the ordeal, a high-quality optic is paramount.
The dominant criteria in victory at close range are speed and precision; therefore, traditional iron sights aren’t up to the task. On the other hand, a competent CQB optic can be both precise and fast, allowing the shooter to collect targets and place bullets on them quickly.
Prism scopes have, over the years, gained popularity among gun enthusiasts because of their illumination, etched glass, and superior design. They are best for combat shooting at close to medium distances.
These optics mostly range from 1x to 5x magnification. In this guide, we’ll focus on 3x prism scopes. Let’s jump in!
1) Vortex Spitfire HD Gen II 3x Prism Scope
If you are looking for a fairly priced scope that is perfect for close to medium ranges, Vortex Spitfire HD Gen II 3x Prism Scope is ideal for you. The scope has an incredibly lightweight design that promises a fantastic time in the field, free of any extra weight that may weigh you down.
Images produced by this scope are excellent, thanks to the fully multi-coated lenses. With this feature, the scope is suitable for all lighting conditions. Another incredible feature of this scope is its unmatched durability.
Aircraft-grade aluminum is used on the outer tube. It is also sealed with O-rings and purged with nitrogen. Because of this inclusion, the scope can perform in all weather conditions. The hard anodized finish keeps the scope in perfect condition for a long time.
Additionally, the scope has a flip cap that ensures protection from dust and dirt that may damage the scope. The reticle in the scope is the AR-BDC which is etched and has twelve brightness settings. You may mount it on your night vision equipment because it has two-night vision settings.
Also present in the scope are recessed and uncapped turrets, making it easy to adjust and zero the optic. Accuracy is one of the highlights that make Spitfire HD Gen II 3x Prism Scope one of the best 3X prism scopes for CQB. With its optimized optical system, you can take down targets with unrivaled precision up to 400 yards.
Features
- Red LED illumination
- Easy adjustments
- Twelve illumination settings
- Two settings are night-vision compatible
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- AR-BDC4 reticle
Pros
- Robust construction
- Lightweight and compact
- Perfect for a 300-yard range
- A flip cap for optimal protection
- A fast-focus eyepiece
Cons
- Smaller eye relief
- Doesn’t come with flip caps
2) Primary Arms 3×32 Gen III Compact Prism Scope
Primary Arms 3×32 Gen III Compact Prism Scope brings to the table a bevy of features that make it worthy of your consideration. The scope is durably made owing to its aircraft-quality aluminum construction with a hard anodized matte black finish.
The unit’s exterior is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. This means that you can rely on it to perform its job even in rainy and snowy conditions and endures any recoil or abuse thrown at it. It is relatively lightweight for a prism scope, weighing only 16 ounces.
Notably, the reticle of the Primary Arms prism scope is a center chevron with BDC. It’s an ACSS reticle with many holdover points that improve accuracy, especially when shooting at moving targets. The reticle can be illuminated for better acquisition of the target.
Furthermore, it has eleven distinct levels of illumination powered by a single CR2032 battery. The settings can be changed using the dial at the top of the scope’s tube.
The battery is placed behind the elevation and illumination adjustment turret on top of the scope. Not only that, its glass is multi-coated for optimal light transmission essential for high-resolution images.
It is also worth noting that there are turrets that facilitate easy windage and elevation adjustments. The 1/4-MOA-per-click capped turrets are easy to zero and provide a 60-MOA reticle adjustment range. To prevent budging, the turret caps ate secured by rubber holders.
The SLx 3X Gen III combines performance, quality, capability and precision to create a reliable shooting solution for CQB and other shooting scenarios that require rapid target acquisition and shooting precision. No doubt it is one of the best 3X prism scopes for CQB.
Features
- Eleven illumination levels
- Multi-coated optics
- Easy windage and elevation adjustments
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- Hard anodized finish
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
- Massive field of view
- Perfect for moving targets
Cons
- Limited eye relief
3) Swampfox Trihawk 3x30mm Prism Scope
Introducing the Swampfox Trihawk 3x30mm Prism Scope a perfect short to medium-range optic for AR-15 and other tactical carbines. When it comes to CQB action, the Swampfox Trihawk is the best choice for you as it is easy to use, sturdy, and will always have your back.
As the name suggests, the scope utilizes a Trihawk reticle that works wonders. This etched reticle is illuminated and can work in either red or green. The reticle provides ten illumination settings, with the second having night vision compatibility.
It features a three-quarter circle that lights brilliantly. The bright three-quarter ring is very noticeable and fast on the target when utilizing the optic up close and personal with an obstructed shooting approach. It allows easy and fast focusing of the reticle essential for target acquisition.
The controls are on top of the Trihawk, just in front of the adjustment knobs, and are nearly flush with the device. The controls are dead basic. The up button increases the brightness, while the down button decreases it. The controls consist of only a few push buttons, which provide tactile feedback.
It is worth mentioning that the glass of The Swampfox Trihawk 3x30mm Prism Scope is affordable yet vividly clear. It delivers clear and high-quality images. The turrets are tethered and capped. To make adjustments, you’ll need anything with a flathead or a cartridge, and the included Swampfox tool is ideal for the job.
A battery powers the device, and depending on the brightness setting, it can last anywhere from 3,000 to 40,000 hours. The battery housing is integrated into the mount, which is a clever design. It keeps the battery out of your line of sight and the battery container out of your peripheral vision.
Features
- Ten illumination settings
- Ergonomic power controls
- Simple but effective reticle
- Weighs 15.4 ounces
- The battery can last up to 40,000 hours
Pros
- Great design
- Clear optics
- Great magnification
- Helps in rapid target acquisition
Cons
- Low eye relief
- Heavy
4) SIG SAUER Bravo3 3x24mm Red Dot Sight
SIG SAUER is celebrated for producing top-notch products in the optics industry, and the Bravo3 3x24mm Red Dot Sight is no different. With crisp glass and bright illumination, Bravo3 3x24mm Battle Sight is one of the best 3X prism scopes for CQB to mount on any AR or MSR platform.
Inside the sight is the MOTAC feature, which shuts off the reticle light after 2 minutes of inactivity and switches it back on when it detects movement. The reticle provides twelve brightness settings.
The inside is also well-constructed as the unit is housed in a sturdy finish. This makes it endure shocks or bumps that are associated with the outdoors.
In addition, the top and side rails provide mounting places for accessories such as a red dot sight, replacement batteries, or anything else you might want to attach.
Consistent adjustment clicks are easy to adjust after detaching the caps. Returning the optic to zero is a breeze. It also holds zero allowing you to strike your targets with no hassle. Also, this unbeatable sight comes at an affordable price, so you don’t have to go off-budget.
Features
- Waterproof
- MOTAC feature
- Shockproof exterior
- Twelve illumination configurations
Pros
- Reasonably priced
- Easy to make adjustments
- Maintains zero well
- Can hold accessories for more convenience
Cons
- Fixed power
5) Vortex Optics Spitfire 3x Prism Scope
Vortex Optics Spitfire 3x Prism Scope is another incredible scope on the market. It has unmatched versatility and durability, which is why it is ideal for you. Like other Vortex scopes, it is crafted from solid aircraft-grade aluminum for longevity.
The hard anodized matte black finish provides a durable exterior that will last many years. The finish is shockproof to withstand shock and bumps when in the field.
In addition, Vortex Spitfire 3x Prism Scope is completely sealed with O-ring seals and purged with dry nitrogen gas. As a result, the scope is waterproof and fog proof. This implies that it will do the job excellently regardless of environmental conditions. There is a flip cap that keeps away dirt, dust, and debris from entering the scope.
Regarding light transmission, the scope has fully multi-coated lenses that gather maximum light resulting in bright, sharp, and clear target pictures. With this, the scope works perfectly, even in low-light settings.
The reticle is etched right on the prism, guaranteeing shooters an accurate point of aim at all times and in all lighting conditions. There are five intensity levels to choose from, depending on your situation. The reticle guarantees impeccable image quality.
Another positive attribute of this scope is a fast-focus eyepiece that helps in sharp focusing of the reticle when rapid target acquisition is of the essence. Truly, the Spitfire Prism Scope is one of the best 3x prism scopes for CQB.
Features
- Durable aluminum housing
- Hard anodized matte black finish
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- The flip cap keeps away harsh elements
- The reticle has five illumination settings
- A fast-focus eyepiece
Pros
- Mount is adjustable
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Great image quality
- Ideal for low-light settings
Cons
- A bit bulky
- No other illumination on the reticle other than red
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Best 3x Prism Scopes for CQB Buying Guide & FAQs
How Do Prism Scopes Work?
Instead of employing a lens, a prism scope will focus the light through the use of a prism. Prism sights often have an etched reticle and an illuminated reticle, making them much more compact optics.
Prism scopes offer a large field of view, making them excellent for modern tactical rifles. The prism featured will operate to raise and focus the picture, allowing prismatic optics to be more compact in form.
Furthermore, the usage of lighted reticles in tandem with a prism sight makes them analogous to red dot sights. Unlike red dot sights, however, some prism scopes can be magnified up to a 5x zoom. As a result, prism scopes are superior. Prism scopes, despite their high magnification, are frequently utilized for close-quarter fighting.
Read: Best Red Dot Sights for 30-06
How to Choose the Best 3x Prism Scopes for CQB
Prism scopes are a game changer in the shooting arena. They feature a compact design and are perfect for engaging close and distant targets. Another hallmark of prism scopes is accuracy, consistency ease of hitting targets.
When looking for the best prism scope to attach to your firearm, you will be met with numerous options that claim to deliver the best performance possible.
If you are looking to get your first prismatic scope, the information from the manufacturers can be overwhelming and to help you find the best 3x prism scopes we have highlighted the key considerations to keep in mind when comparing different optics.
Clarity
Clarity of view is critical irrespective of the shooting activity or the type of optic being considered. It is, however, even more, crucial in CQB scenarios. You’ll need high-quality lenses that provide image clarity and fast target acquisition.
Accuracy
When you’re up against targets at close quarters, the best CQB optic scopes and sights will provide consistent precision. It’s an enormous mistake to choose an optic for CQB that doesn’t deliver accurate targeting. You may be the one on the receiving end of this.
Read: Best Red Dot Sights for CQB
Cost
This is a constant factor in all accessories. Set a reasonable budget based on your CQB activities and requirements. True, there are many high-priced CQB prism scopes on the market.
However, you do not have to break the bank to obtain one. Choose one that matches the bulk of your requirements while remaining affordable
The sole exception is if your CQB activities put you in dangerous situations. If this is the case, pay whatever it takes to have an optical device that offers you an advantage.
Lens coating
Getting a coated lens with multiple layers is more advantageous for any shooting application. Most rifle scopes, especially prism scopes, include multicoated lenses, which help you minimize glare and reflected light in brighter environments or when shooting in open fields.
They also come in handy in a dark environment by allowing maximum light transmission leading to images with better clarity and brightness.
Eye Relief
The most challenging aspect of buying a prism scope is determining how much eye relief you need. Most models only have 2 to 4 inches of eye relief. This simply implies that when aiming or firing at your target, you must be closer to the scope.
Prism scopes may not shield you from the impact of recoil if you’re shooting a high-powered rifle. On the other hand, they may be the greatest option if you’re using a semi-automatic rifle like the AR-15.
Read: Best Red Dot Sights for MP5
Ease of Use
There are optics in the scope industry that have a myriad of bells and whistles. They offer useful features and functionalities, but they take effort to adjust for the images you’re taking. These types of scopes are fine when you have all the time in the world.
In CQB circumstances, this is rarely the case. The scope you use should have simple, easy-to-use controls that allow you to fire off quick, accurate rounds. It’s also important to have a large field of view.
This is because, in addition to seeing the immediate target, you must also be aware of your surroundings. Faffing with knobs and functions will cost you precious seconds that could be life and death.
Read: Best Red Dots for AR Pistols
Best 3X Prism Scopes for CQB FAQs
Q: Are Prism Scopes Worth It?
It is best to have prism scopes if you’re looking for the best budget sight for your tactical rifle that will give you everything you need. You get all of the advantages of a standard low-power variable optic, plus the convenience of a red dot sight.
Q: Can You Magnify a Prism Scope?
You can’t magnify most prism scopes because they don’t have magnification. They usually have a fixed zoom of 1x. However, certain prism scopes have multiple magnification levels. The models above have a 3x magnification.
Because this magnification cannot be changed, you must ensure that you select a scope with the appropriate magnification for its intended use.
Q: What is a Prism Scope Good For?
Prism scopes are often confined to magnifications in the 1x to 5x range. They’re ideal for AR-15s and other tactical rifles because of their small size and low magnification range. They’re a viable substitute for ACOGs, Aimpoints, and red dot sights for short-range shooting.
Conclusion
The prism scopes above are made specifically for close quarters and are tough and dependable. They are valuable gear to have in your optics regimen. They will help in the quick acquisition of your target. Besides, they are easy to use, sturdy, and are a worthy place on your firearm.