Primary Arms GLx 1x MicroPrism Review: A True SHTF Optic

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	Primary Arms GLx 1x MicroPrism	Check Price

A couple of years ago, I started my search for a new prism sight due to my astigmatism and landed on the Primary Arms SLx 1x. I quickly realized that the etched reticle was the best option for my eyes, and have been using it in some capacity ever since.

The SLx 1x wound up being one of my go-to testing optics for firearms, as it worked exceptionally well for me. Once I saw that the GLx 1x was coming out earlier this year, I knew it was only a matter of time before I had one join my collection.

It may have taken me a little bit to get one (shoutout to Primary Arms for sending this one out), but it was worth the wait.

Keep reading to see why I liked it and to determine if one is suited for one of your next builds!

Despite its attractive price point, the GLx 1x comes with everything you need to go from unboxing to sending rounds down range. From the included mount to various spacers and even a couple of tools, you won’t need anything additional to hit the ground running.

Right out of the box, the GLx 1x MicroPrism feels bombproof. The construction is solid, and it has that reassuring heft without being overly heavy. It’s worth noting, though, that these are heavier than your comparable-sized red dot, so if you’re going for a lightweight build, it’s something to take into consideration.

This small optic is packed with numerous impressive features.

Let’s start by taking a closer look at the ACSS Cyclops reticle. The pairing of the horseshoe and center chevron provides a nice combination of quick target acquisition and precision.

Right underneath the chevron, you’ll notice an auto-ranging ladder for estimating target distances.

You can choose from 13 illumination settings that range from daylight bright down to a few that are night vision compatible.

Thanks to the fully multi-coated lens, the glass is extremely clear, and when paired with the fantastic eye relief, it’s an optic that is genuinely a pleasure to use.

Attention was paid closely to the controls, especially the push buttons, which are placed next to each other but separated to avoid unintentional manipulations.

They are relatively flush, which can cause a slight delay in finding them in a hurry, but they are well placed, and you slowly become accustomed to them, as with anything.

Running on a single CR2032 battery, which is loaded on top of the optic, you don’t have to remove it to replace it. You can expect up to ~15,000 hours of battery life on setting five.

If you’re following a suggested 6-month battery change cycle, you should never have to worry about it running out!

Lastly, the optic features AutoLive motion-sensing on/off technology, an IP67 waterproof rating, and is backed by a lifetime warranty.

Over the last couple of months, I’ve run the GLx 1x on various rifles and PCCs, but mostly on my BCA-15 from Bear Creek Arsenal and my Aero Precision EPC9. On both firearms, it’s performed flawlessly.  

The ACSS reticle gave me plenty of confidence transitioning between targets at varying distances between 15 and 75 yards, where I was consistently hitting my smaller steel targets with ease, despite it being a 1x.

Through more than 500 various rounds, the optic held zero, and I never had to adjust unless I was switching firearms. Adjustments are easy and convenient, requiring no special tools, which I always appreciate.

I haven’t had it long enough to comment on battery life, but the beauty of a prism scope is that even when the batteries die, you still have the etched reticle to fall back on.

If you have astigmatism or just want the precision and clarity of a prism optic without giving up speed, the GLx 1x MicroPrism is easily one of the best bangs for your buck. It’s compact, rugged, and incredibly versatile, plus it comes with everything you need right out of the box.

While I don’t run prism scopes on every one of my rifles, there are quite a few that I would without hesitation, run this one on. With an MSRP of $320, this optic punches well above its weight class.

As always, stay safe, train hard, and have fun.