[Discussion] Primary Arms Launches Budget CLx Optics Line With Four Models From $149

Primary Arms launches four-model CLx optics line

Primary Arms has introduced its new CLx optics family, a lower-cost tier positioned below the company’s SLx series. The launch includes four models: two red dots and two prism scopes, all aimed at budget-focused buyers.

The lineup consists of the CLx RD-23 Push Button Red Dot Sight, the CLx Enclosed Reflex Sight, the CLx 1x Prism Scope, and the CLx 3x Prism Scope. Retail pricing starts at $149 and runs to $219.

According to Primary Arms, every CLx optic includes fully multi-coated lenses, a nitrogen-purged waterproof housing, night-vision-compatible illumination, and the company’s lifetime warranty.

Pricing and model breakdown

The CLx RD-23 Push Button Red Dot Sight is listed at $149.99. The CLx Enclosed Reflex Sight is priced at $179.99. On the prism side, the CLx 1x Prism Scope retails for $199.99, while the CLx 3x Prism Scope is listed at $219.99.

The new family covers both rifle and pistol use. The RD-23 and both prism optics use the Aimpoint Micro-style T1/T2 mounting pattern, while the enclosed pistol optic uses the RMSc footprint.

Red dot options

The CLx RD-23 is a compact rifle-style red dot with a 3 MOA dot, 10 brightness settings, and two night-vision settings. It includes push-button controls, an integrated solar backup, and a Picatinny mount. Primary Arms lists battery life at 16,500 hours on a CR2032 battery. The optic weighs 3.5 ounces and measures 2.27 inches long.

The CLx Enclosed Reflex Sight is a micro enclosed-emitter pistol optic with a 3 MOA dot and RMSc compatibility. It is designed for compact and slimline handguns, but Primary Arms also notes it can be used on pistol-caliber carbines, shotguns, or as an offset sight on rifles. Features include AutoLive motion-sensing illumination, a side-loading CR1632 battery, an integrated backup rear iron sight, and 10 brightness settings with two night-vision levels. Claimed battery life is 21,000 hours on a medium setting. It weighs 0.98 ounce and is 1.61 inches long.

Prism scope options

The CLx 1x Prism Scope is a fixed-power prism optic with an etched illuminated circle-dot reticle. The reticle uses a 3 MOA center dot with a 45 MOA outer circle. It offers 10 illumination settings, including two night-vision-compatible levels, and remains usable without battery power because the reticle is etched. The optic ships with a 1913 Picatinny mount, uses a micro-dot style footprint, and runs on a CR2032 battery. Primary Arms lists battery life at 2,000 hours on medium. Weight is 6.63 ounces.

The CLx 3x Prism Scope uses an illuminated cross-dot reticle calibrated for standard 5.56mm bullet drop. Like the 1x model, it has an etched reticle for use without battery power and is intended to provide a crisp aiming point for shooters who may have difficulty with conventional red dots. It includes 10 brightness settings with two night-vision options, top-mounted push-button controls, and an included mount. The optic weighs 7.32 ounces and measures 3.01 inches long.

Shared features and warranty

Across the line, Primary Arms emphasizes waterproof and shockproof construction, hardcoat-anodized aluminum housings, and fully multi-coated lenses. The prism models also offer an option for users who prefer etched reticles, including those with astigmatism.

All four CLx models are covered by the Primary Arms Lifetime Warranty.

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