When would you want a 1x optic?

[matir]

I don't mean a variable (1-6x or so) optic, but a pure 1x like this prism optic from primary arms: https://www.primaryarms.com/pa-1x-compact-prism-scope-with-acss-cyclops-reticle-black

 

What's the advantage/disadvantage compared to a red dot?

[TonytheTiger]

Better glass, finer etched reticle, works without batteries, usable BDC hashes, doesn't cause people with eye problems as much grief.

[matir]

Where does your eye focus with a 1x optic?  At the distance of the reticle?  I've always loved that red dots (even if they're a little off-round due to my astigmatism) focus at infinity so I can reasonably shoot with both eyes open.

[TonytheTiger]

Thats a fine question, I don't have enough time behind one to answer it though. 

I just listed the first benefits I've noticed when I've looked through them.

[jon49erfan]

It's the same as a scope that is on 1x. For me, its noticeably sharper than using a red dot. Plus there is no color change looking through the lens like a red dot has (some dots more that others). I can shoot both eyes open with mine.

 

Although I'd argue that the bdc was unusable in the Burris AR1x I had. Center dot completely covered targets as well. Went back to leupold prismatic and eventually Vortex Spitfire AR. Owned aim point t1, eotech xps, holosuns, primary arms t1 clones, and trijicon fiber optic and led dots. All except the holosun 510c is gone. For some reason, the dot is nice and crisp while every other red dot for me isnt. The fiber trijicon was crisp, but the image was so blue. 

[NoKimberDave]

Use it just like a red dot.

To me it has every advantage. Clarity, etched reticle, can get some with a tight center dot which is better for precision shots, etc.

 

The only disadvantages I have found is:

-Lack of unlimited eye relief (not a problem for me as eye box is generous.)

-Not as many choices.

 

I feel that most prism reticles are goofy and way too busy. Trying to do too much. This causes lots of problems when it is all illuminated and light starts getting low. It destroys my night vision and bleedsI like Leupold one the best, the one with crosshairs and only the center dot is illuminated, unfortunately it's unavailable.

Don't need anything but the center dot to light up in a prism or variable optic, imo.

 

 

[Midwest3Gunner]

Im going to run a Vortex Spitfire AR in limited this season because I couldnt find a iron sight set up that I liked. Like the others have mentioned, it's better for longer distance over a red dot and it's a little better on the eyes for those of us with an astigmatism. I can shoot with both eyes open just fine with a target focus up close, then switch to a reticle focus for the long stuff. That's just what works for me however, it would be best to get some time behind one and form your own opinions. Even shooting from unconventional positions isnt really that difficult, if you put enough practice in.