A red dot sight (RDS) or holographic sight can work wonders when your target’s up and close and personal, but what about those targets out at a distance? There are no zoom functions, so with ranged targets, they aren’t any good. That’s where the magic of magnifiers come in. Quality ones serve to enhance your optics and shooting by adding range, yet the question remains which ones are worth it? We researched dozens of magnifiers, 3x in particular. From our reviews of 10 top-rated products to our buyer’s guide that follows, we hope to help you find the best 3x magnifiers for our next outing.
With no more time to waste, let’s jump right into our top 10 countdowns.
Contents
Our Recommended 3x Magnifiers
- Our Rating
- Weight: 11.9oz.
Length: 4.3in.
Eye Relief: 2.2in.
- Our Rating
- Weight: 11.8oz.
Length: 4in.
Eye Relief: 2in.
- Our Rating
- Weight: 11.2oz.
Length: 3.9in.
Eye Relief: 2.2in.
10 Best 3x Magnifiers for the Money:
1. Vortex Optics VMX-3T Magnifier with Built-in Flip Mount
- The VMX-3T Magnifier and Flip Mount combo adds a 3x magnification to your rifles red dot sight. Simple, fast, and effective, the push button design engages and disengages the flip mount allowing the magnifier to lock in at your desired position.
- The lens are fully multi-coated maximizing resolution, light gathering capability, and color fidelity. Eye Relief-2.2 inches. Field of View-38.2 feet/100 yards
- The VMX-3T does not require any special sight-in. The dot centering screws can be used to help center your red dot image in the VMX-3Ts field of view.
- The magnifier is nitrogen purged for reliable waterproof and fogproof performance in the field.Use lens cleaning fluid and optical tissue or cloth to clean lenses
- Allows for lower 1/3 or absolute co-witness mounting heights and is ideal for shooters who want to increase the effective range of their red dot sight. Field of View: 38.2 feet/100 yards
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Review
The Vortex Optics VMX-3T Magnifier is a flip mount combination that enhances your red dot sight.
It uses a push-button design for quick placement and removal when you don’t need it.
This simple and lightweight magnifier is durable, and it doesn’t need any special sight-in.
It can work with mostly all red dot sights, but it’s not recommended for use with prism scopes.
What Consumers are Saying
Consumers praise the Vortex 3x magnifier for how easy it is to use. The flip-to-side design allows for quick engagement and disengagement. It’s especially versatile as it works for installing at lower 1/3 height or absolute co-witness height.
Appreciation is also seen for how well the magnifier resists water and fog
There have been complaints about eye relief since some feel as though it’s too small and uncomfortable.
Pros/Cons
- Optics are clear and bright
- Smooth flip action
- Mount is stable and solid
- Small eye relief
2. UTG 3X Magnifier with Flip-to-side QD Mount, W/E Adjustable
- Broadband Multi-coated Lens to Provide Crystal Clear 3X Image, Wide Field of View - 30% Bigger Than Comparable Models from Other Brands.Compatible Rail-Picatinny/Weaver.
- Windage/Elevation Adjustability for Optimum View Centering. Refer user manual for list of compatible manuals
- 42mm Center Height for Most Common Dot Sight Combination, Innovative Flip-to-Side Mechanism for Quick Transition between 1X and 3X Image.Objective Diameter:25mm;Field of View @ 100 yards:45
- Adjustable Eyepiece for Easy Dioptric Correction, Patented Quick-detach Lever Lock Mounting Base
- Precision Machining and Anodizing for Maximum Strength and Wear Resistance, Completely Sealed and Nitrogen Filled for Fog/Weather Proof.Eye Relief: 2 inch
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Review
The UTG 3x Magnifier is a flip-to-side magnifier that provides a wide field of view when used with both RDS and holographic sights.
It’s adjustable from the windage to the eyepiece.
This also features a quick-detach lever locking mechanism in the mounting base for simple installation.
It’s designed to last, built to withstand wear, fog, and water.
What Consumers are Saying
Our UTG 3x magnifier review discovered that consumers enjoy the user-friendly layout. It’s ergonomic and quick to flip to the side and out of the way.
Also, it mounts easily enough, and it remains secure.
For the complaints, some shooters say that the minimal eye relief can have you sitting too close, more so when you have to account for recoil.
Pros/Cons
- Easy to adjust for elevation and windage
- Secure mount
- Simple installation
- Eye relief could be better
3. EOTECH G33 Magnifier
- EOTECH G33.STS 3x Magnifier in TAN
- Magnification - Fixed 3x magnification in compact design
- Quick Transitions - Switch-to-Side mount allows instant transitions between 1x and 3x magnification
- Hws Compatible - Works with all EOTECH Holographic Weapon Sights
- EOTECH HWS Prestige Warranty - Comes with 10 year limited warranty
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Review
The EOTECH G33 Magnifier is designed in either a black style or a tan style with a focus on stealth for tactical use. It can easily attach to all EOTECH holographic sights.
You can transition almost instantly with this AR magnifier, and even though it features a robust build, it comes with a 10-year limited warranty.
What Consumers are Saying
Many consumers enjoy how well built this magnifier is, and they say it feels as though it can hold up to rough use. They also appreciate the small footprint since it sits at just under 4in. in length.
Further appreciation is seen in the flip function as users believe they can move it back and forth with ease. As for the price, there are some complaints that it’s a tough high, but many feel that the construction and clear view makes it worth it.
There may be a break-in period, however. The eye relief isn’t all that impressive, so it can take some getting used to.
Pros/Cons
- Durable construction
- Compact style
- Flips quickly
- Break-in period
4. UTG 30mm Flip-to-Side, Picatinny/Weaver QD Ring Mount
- Fits Magnifiers or Other Accessories with 30mm Tube Diameter, 40mm Center Height Ensures Compatibility with Many Popular Dot Sights
- Picatinny/Weaver Compatible Mounting Base with Patented Quick-detach Lever Lock for Rapid and Secure Installation
- Complete with 2 Inserts to Use with a Wide Range of Flashlights or Other Accessories with 30mm, 27mm or 1 Diameter
- Precision Machined From Aircraft-grade Aluminum Alloy with Anodized Black Matte Finish
- Patented, Innovative Flip-to-Side Design Allows Target Acquisition at Varying Distances and Flexible Position of Accessory
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Review
The Hammers 3x Magnifier Scope is designed with all marksmen in mind. There’s a good deal of adjustability when it comes to windage and elevation so you don’t have to zero in.
With a fully coated lens, it offers ideal performance in a number of different conditions. This also is intended to work well in low light situations.
What Consumers are Saying
From what we’ve gathered, consumers feel the lens is high in quality. The glass is clear, and the overall optics is bright enough for use even when the sun isn’t gleaming down.
They also like the protective caps that cover the adjustment knobs as well as the cap for the lens. Also, for further protection, users appreciate the rubber-armored grip.
Some users did feel that, in spite of being light in weight, the magnifier is noticeably bulky. This may interfere with your back-up iron sights.
Pros/Cons
- Protection caps for adjustment knobs and lens
- Lightweight
- Good lens coating
- A bit bulky
5. AT3 Tactical RD-50 PRO Red Dot Sight with .83″ Riser – for Absolute Cowitness with Iron Sights – 2 MOA Compact Red Dot Scope
- ACCURATE - Crisp 2 MOA red dot sight allows for accurate, both-eyes-open shooting. 11 red dot brightness settings provide optimal visibility in any light conditions. Multi-coated, scratch resistant amber lens provides enhanced image clarity.
- DEPENDABLE - Fully waterproof with sealed housing. Lifetime Warranty. Shockproof circuitry resists damage from rough handling. Matte black anodized finish resists scratches while keeping a stealthy profile.
- INCREDIBLE VALUE - Exceptional battery life – up to 50,000 hours at the lowest brightness setting. Genuine Renata CR2032 Lithium battery included. Factory direct pricing - no distributor markup.
- LIGHTWEIGHT MOUNT AND ARMOR - Includes Med .83” Cantilever Riser Mount for “absolute” cowitness with iron sights, and rubberized cover with integrated lens caps
- INSIDE THE BOX - Red dot sight, 0.83” PRO-MOUNT Riser, RD-ARMOR Optic Cover, CR2032 Battery, Rubber bikini cover, Instruction sheet, Lens cloth, Allen wrench
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Review
This AT3 Tactical gives you a red dot sight with magnifier.
The combination allows you to have clear sights to elevate your performance.
There’s good flexibility as the magnifier flips up and back in place as needed.
Both the RDS and the magnifier are built durable, but they come with a lifetime warranty if you need more peace of mind.
What Consumers are Saying
Consumers speak highly of this red dot magnifier because of its dependability. The magnifier is made with a 6061-T6 housing along with a steel mount so that it locks securely with no wobbling.
In addition, this magnifier also has a rugged rubber coating to give you a better, more reliable grip under different weather conditions.
We did notice some user complaints about the flip mechanism, however. Some feel like the mechanism is stiff, so it may need some breaking in so that you can use it easier and quicker.
Pros/Cons
- Good eye relief
- Quality construction
- Holds zero well
- The flip mechanism seems stiff
6. EOTECH HHS I Holographic Hybrid Sight
- EOTECH HHS I - Holographic Hybrid Sight includes EXPS3-4 sight wth G33 Magnifier
- Quick Transitions - Change quickly from close quarter to medium range targets with the included G33 Magnifier and Switch-to-Side mount
- Night Vision Campatible - Works with all Gen 1-3 night vision devices. Water Resistant - Submersible to 33 ft (10 m) depth
- Side Button Operations - Compact design and side button operation consumes minimal rail space. Fog resistant internal optics sealing
- EOTECH HWS Prestige Warranty - Comes with 10 year limited warranty
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With the G33 magnifier, you can readily switch to medium-range shooting in seconds. Even though it works fast, the mechanism is still sturdy, latching properly into place regardless of if you’re using it or not.
What Consumers are Saying
There’s quite a bit of praise about the hybrid unit altogether that saves you from buying a holographic sight and magnifier to go with it separately. Shooters also feel that it’s rather user-friendly in how easy it is to install and use.
The entire piece seems built well and meant to last through any situation you may think to put it through. Also, it’s easy enough to adjust, and this still provides you with the pinpoint precision of your target when magnified.
There’s ideal water resistance with this magnifier so that you may use it under rainy conditions without worry.
On the notion of downsides, many users believe that the eye relief is lacking, a feature that may not make this comfortable to use for everyone.
Pros/Cons
- Offers pinpoint precision
- User-friendly
- The flip mechanism feels sturdy
- Eye relief seems a bit poor
7. Primary Arms 3X Magnifier for Red Dot Sights – Long Eye Relief, Gen IV
- 3X MAGNIFICATION: Magnifies the sight picture of red dots and holographic reflex sights by 3x with clarity and brightness
- GEN IV IMPROVEMENTS: Longer eye relief, wider field of view and improved clarity over previous models
- SIGHT PICTURE: The integrated diopter can be used to focus the red dot and the azimuth and elevation adjustments to keep it center in your field of view
- RUGGED AND DURABLE: Magnifier is waterproof and fog resistant with a rubber armor sleeve that protects the optic body from harsh impacts
- 1-YEAR WARRANTY: We’ve got you covered for a year after purchase – If a defect due to materials or workmanship has caused your product to malfunction, Primary Arms will either repair or replace it
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Review
The Gen IV from Primary Arms is a 3x magnifier for red dot sights that features an enhanced design over their older models. There’s a noticeable improvement in eye relief and field of view.
This is also made with an integrated diopter that may provide you with faster focus while also maintaining accuracy.
It pairs well with the elevation adjustments as those help you keep the dot centered.
What Consumers are Saying
There’s a lot of praise seen for the rugged construction of the magnifier. Its rubber sleeve can help it withstand impact while also ensuring you have a firm grip even under wet conditions.
Consumers feel that the flip functions well too. There’s enough eye relief that it feels generous, and many claim that it offers ideal comfort.
Another high point is how well it withstands water in general. Also, the performance doesn’t appear hindered under foggy weather either.
You may not get much out of this magnifier in low light conditions, however. The clarity seems to drop unless there’s an optimal amount of light.
Pros/Cons
- Comfortable eye relief
- Flip functions well
- Durable build that’s waterproof and fog proof
- Poor performance in low light conditions
8. HOLOSUN HM3X 3X Flip to Side Magnifier,Black
- Flip to the Side design.
- Compatible with Absolute and Lower 1/3 Height Optics.
- QD Mount and Spacer Included.
- IP67 Certified.
- Durable Aluminum housing.
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It grants you a more seamless transition from 1x to 3x magnification, offering you high eye relief and clear glass for accurate targeting.
What Consumers are Saying
Numerous consumers agree that this HOLOSUN magnifier holds good value in terms of how well it’s built and how comfortable it is to use. There’s plenty of eye relief available, and it’s easy enough to see through thanks to the clear glass and next to no edge distortion.
It adjusts well too so you can achieve your desired focus in no time, giving you a clear view of your target even when magnified.
Another high point consumers mention is the rest of the windage and elevation adjustments. The process appears seamless.
Some users noted that it may be difficult securing it without noticing any wobbling. So, you may have to apply some effort when screwing this in place.
Pros/Cons
- Minimal distortion along the edges
- A good amount of eye relief
- Clear glass
- Some issues fitting it tight to the rail
9. Aimpoint 3X Magnifier with Twist Mount Picatinny Spacer Kit
- Mountable on a rail system behind Aimpoint sights
- Extremely fast and ingenious mounting solution (Twist Mount - Picatinny)
- Can also be mounted with a regular 30 mm ring
- NVD compatible, recommended mount on any MIL-Std 1913 Picatinny Rail
- 3XMag can also be attached to aftermarket flip to side mounts
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Review
The Aimpoint 3x Magnifier Kit is compatible for mounting on Aimpoint sights rail systems. With a twist mount system, it allows you to quickly turn and engage or disengage the magnifier whenever you need it.
There’s some versatility found in this as you can either use it to enhance your sights or as a solo as a handheld monocular.
What Consumers are Saying
This kit from Aimpoint provides you with a twist mount system and a magnifier, and a lot of consumers seem to like the simplicity behind it all.
Beyond that, there were many positive comments about glass quality. The optics appear clear under magnification, and the mount helps hold the center well.
Concerning the overall build quality, it seems rugged enough to hold up over multiple, frequent uses.
The main issue consumers have is the fixed design. Even though you can put it on and take it off fast, you must take it completely off and have somewhere to put it as it doesn’t simply move to the side like flip mounts.
Pros/Cons
- Mount holds center well
- Glass is high-quality
- Reliable construction
- Fixed-mount takes time to use
10. Sightmark 3X Tactical Magnifier Pro
- Improved rubber armor housing for increased durability, 3x5 eye relief provides improved shooting comfort
- Increases magnification of accompanying sights for greater engagement range
- Improved target recognition-especially medium range targets
- External wind age/elevation adjustment for reticle alignment
- Flip to side mount provides rapid transition between weapons optical systems
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It’s equipped with adjustments for windage and elevation, and it’s made with a quick-detach mount so you can readily install and uninstall.
What Consumers are Saying
Consumers make note of the slide-to-side design that lets you slip this magnifier in and out of place with no effort needed. This may help you adjust faster to your surroundings in a hunting and tactical scenario.
They also enjoy the adjustment process that may elevate your performance.
A major issue some consumers had, however, is that they feel like it doesn’t lock into place well. Some report the magnifier sliding off while in use.
Pros/Cons
- Fast slide-to-side design
- Good clarity
- Quality alignments for elevation and windage
- The chance that it can dislodge out of place
Factors to Consider When Buying the Best 3x Magnifier
RDS and other optics are only increasing in popularity as the years go by. In fact, many shooters moved beyond using them on rifles and have extended their use to handguns considering how beneficial they can be.
It’s no surprise then how many gun users are turning to the likes of a holographic sight with magnifier and others like it to get the best of both short-range shooting and medium to long-range shooting.
In light of our top 10 reviews, we understand how you may still be on the fence on what a 3x magnifier is actually the best. It’s subjective based on your needs, so we’ve created a buyer’s guide to help you understand more about the magnifiers to make your decision.
Mounting Type
There are two ways to mount your 3x magnifier: flip or fixed.
A flip-to-side style scope magnifier is highly recommended by us and other shooters for its versatility. You can swap from 1x to 3x magnification in a split second, a much-needed skill for tactical and hunting scenarios.
Fixed mounts aren’t the most recommended seeing as you have to either use the 3x or completely remove the magnifier to shoot up close. That can take up valuable time, so you’ll have to be careful about how you’re using your gun if you want a fixed mount magnifier.
For instance, this may not be much of an issue in some competitive shooting.
Eye Relief
RDS lacks any sort of eye relief, so it’s important that a red dot magnifier has it instead. Since we focus on 3x magnifiers, eye relief should only be a couple of inches. That should be comfortable enough to handle the zoom.
Additional Features
When choosing a 3x magnifier, you also want to keep in mind extra features beyond the zoom.
Check out the lens itself. Quality magnifiers offer anti-fog coating, for instance, so you can shoot well under various weather conditions.
Many are offer water-resistant or waterproof, surviving under light or heavy rain depending on the water rating.
Also, consider the field of view available as this will determine how fast you can acquire your target.
Recommended Reads: AR-15 Scopes under 200 bucks, and AR-15 Scopes under $300
3x Magnifier FAQ
How far is a 3x magnifier?
A 3x magnifier increases your optics to a range between 300-350 yards.
How to set up red dot and magnifier?
Setting up a magnifier on your RDS is straightforward as long as you follow the instructions that come with your specific magnifier. If you notice any wobbling, be sure to check that all the screws are tightened enough.
How do you know if you need a 3x magnifier?
When you want to shoot at medium distances with your RDS or holographic sight, then you need a magnifier. A 3x magnifier can handle some long distances, but they may be best at medium range as you can still maintain accuracy.
Making the Decision
Many shooters will agree that RDS and holographic sights have great close-range use, but if you want versatility, you need a quality magnifier.
The best 3x magnifier will allow you to nail targets from hundreds of yards out and switch back to close range as needed. So, we feel like the Vortex Optics VMX-3T Magnifier is the top choice for that.
It’s both simple and effective, and the flip design allows for quick use right when you need it. This also has good weather protection against water and fog, and the sights remain clear under various conditions.
Take a look more at our reviews to decide whether or not the VMX-3T is right for you, or check out the rest of our recommendations so you can find a quality 3x magnifier for your RDS or holographic sight.