Welcome to my Primary Arms SLX RS-10 Review in 2024.
I’ve had the opportunity to test a wide array of optics. Recently, I got my hands on the Primary Arms SLx RS-1 and It stands out not just for its affordability but also for its performance and durability.
I’ll dive into what makes the RS-10 a worthy addition to your shooting gear, especially if you’re looking for reliability without breaking the bank.
Overview of Primary Arms SLx RS-10
The Primary Arms SLx RS-10 is a refreshing entry in the red dot market, striking a balance between functionality and affordability.
Primary Arms focuses on what matters most to shooters: a reliable, easy-to-use optic that enhances your shooting experience without overwhelming you with unnecessary features.
Core Specifications Table
| Specification | Detail |
| Battery Life | 25,000 – 50,000 hours |
| Battery Type | CR2032 3V lithium coin |
| Material | 7075 Aluminum |
| Brightness Settings | 11 settings (NV compatible) |
| Reticle | 3 MOA dot |
| Reticle Color | Red |
| Weight | 1.07 Oz |
| Finish | Hardcoat anodized |
What’s in the box?
- RS-10 Reflex Sight
- Adapter plate for Glock® MOS
- A low-profile Picatinny rail mount
First Look & Impression
Upon first handling the Primary Arms SLx RS-10, its lightweight yet sturdy build immediately stands out. The 7075 aluminum construction gives it a premium feel, and the hard coat anodized finish suggests it can withstand regular use and harsh conditions.
The simplicity of design, coupled with its clear and bright reticle, makes it an inviting optic for shooters of all levels.
Who Should Get Primary Arms SLx RS-10
The RS-10 is perfect for shooters who value simplicity, durability, and affordability in an optic.
It’s an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced shooters looking for a reliable red dot sight without unnecessary complexities.
Types of Guns Suitable for the SLx RS-10
- Glock 19 and other doublestack platform handguns
- Smith & Wesson M&P series
- Various guns with Docter/Noblex mounting footprint
- Firearms compatible with Picatinny rail mount
- Suitable for MOS Models
Features of Primary Arms SLx RS-10
1. Docter/Noblex Standard Mounting Footprint
The Primary Arms SLx RS-10’s compatibility with the Docter/Noblex standard mounting footprint is a significant highlight. This mounting standard is widely recognized and accepted in the handgun optics realm, providing a versatile and secure attachment system.
It ensures compatibility with a broad range of firearms, particularly those that are already set up for this mounting style. This feature makes the RS-10 a versatile choice for shooters who might have multiple platforms and want an optic that can easily transition between them.
My Testing
I tested the RS-10’s mounting compatibility using a variety of handguns, including the FN509, which is a recent addition to the list of compatible firearms.
The mounting was straightforward, and the optic sat securely in place. The provided screws and adapter plates made the process seamless. This compatibility adds to the RS-10’s practicality, ensuring a snug fit and a reliable shooting experience across different guns.
2. Side-loading CR2032 Battery Compartment
The side-loading design for the CR2032 battery compartment in the RS-10 is a thoughtful touch. This design choice allows for quick and easy battery changes without the need to remove the optic from the firearm.
It’s a convenient feature for those in the field or at the range, as it minimizes downtime and avoids the need to re-zero after a battery change.
My Testing
During my testing, the side-loading battery compartment was a mixed bag. While I appreciated the easy access, removing the battery was somewhat challenging.
It required a small tool to pry it out. Despite this minor inconvenience, the advantage of not having to detach the optic for battery replacement is a significant plus, especially considering the impressive 40,000-hour battery life.
3. Daylight Brightness Levels and 3 MOA Dot
The RS-10’s daylight brightness levels and the 3 MOA dot size strike a perfect balance for handgun optics. The 3 MOA dot is small enough for precision but large enough to acquire quickly in various lighting conditions.
The multiple brightness settings, including those compatible with night vision, offer versatility for different environments and scenarios.
My Testing
The brightness settings were more than adequate during my range tests. The dot remained crisp and visible even in the brightest conditions. However, under extreme lighting, there were some clarity Issues with a slight blue tint and reflections.
Despite this, the dot’s size was optimal for both precision shooting and rapid target acquisition, proving its effectiveness in diverse shooting situations.
4. Ruggedized Design and Material
The RS-10’s ruggedized design, utilizing 7075 Aluminum and a hardcoat anodized finish, is built for durability. This choice of material indicates a commitment to quality, ensuring the sight can withstand the rigors of regular use and harsh conditions.
The rugged design is crucial for maintaining accuracy and reliability, especially in a defensive or tactical context where the optic might be exposed to various environmental stressors.
My Testing
In my hands-on testing, the RS-10’s robust construction was immediately noticeable. I tested its durability by attaching it to a training gun and subjecting it to several drops from different angles. The sight withstood these tests admirably, maintaining its zero and showing no signs of functional impairment.
The hard coat anodized finish also proved to be resilient when I cleaned the sight after exposing it to dirt and water. This ruggedness assures me of its reliability in real-world scenarios where dependability is non-negotiable.
5. Multi-Coated Lenses
The Primary Arms SLx RS-10 comes equipped with multi-coated lenses, a crucial feature for any high-quality optic. These coatings are designed to reduce glare, improve light transmission, and enhance image clarity.
This results in a brighter, clearer sight picture, which is vital for accurate target acquisition and tracking. The multi-coating also adds a layer of protection against scratches and abrasions, ensuring the longevity of the lenses.
My Testing
In testing the RS-10, the multi-coated lenses proved their worth. The sight picture was consistently clear and bright, regardless of the lighting conditions.
There was a noticeable reduction in glare compared to non-coated lenses, which was particularly beneficial in bright outdoor environments. The lenses remained resilient against scratches during regular handling and cleaning, adding to the optic’s overall durability.
6. Comprehensive Lifetime Warranty
Primary Arms offers a comprehensive lifetime warranty with the RS-10, signifying their confidence in the product’s reliability and build quality.
This warranty covers any defects in materials and workmanship, providing peace of mind for the buyer. Such a warranty is a testament to the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction and product quality.
My Testing
While I did not have the opportunity to test the warranty process firsthand, knowing the availability of a comprehensive lifetime warranty provides a significant sense of security.
It’s a mark of trust from Primary Arms in their product, ensuring that any potential issues down the line can be addressed without additional expense.
Footprint and Mounting Considerations
The Primary Arms SLx RS-10 fits the commonly used Docter/Noblex standard mounting footprint, ensuring wide compatibility with various handguns. This specific footprint is crucial for shooters who prefer a seamless transition between different firearms.
However, it’s important to note that it doesn’t fit Weaver rails. For proper mounting, users should use the original optic mounting screws provided by the handgun manufacturer, ensuring a secure and accurate fit.
The inclusion of an adapter plate for Glock MOS and a low-profile Picatinny mount further enhances its adaptability.
Pros and Cons: Primary Arms SLX RS-10
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Side-loading CR2032 battery compartment for easy access
- Bright and crisp 3 MOA red dot reticle
- Lightweight and rugged design, made from 7075 Aluminum
- Long battery life ranging from 25,000 to 50,000 hours
- Multi-coated lenses for clear sight picture
- Docter/Noblex footprint for wide compatibility
- Comprehensive lifetime warranty
Cons
- Some clarity issues in extreme light conditions
- Reflection in the sight window under certain angles
Final Verdict
As a professional shooter who has rigorously tested the Primary Arms SLX RS-10, I can confidently endorse this red dot sight. Its standout performance, coupled with robust build quality, makes it an exceptional choice for both casual and serious shooters.
The RS-10 exemplifies a perfect blend of functionality, durability, and affordability, making it a top contender in the optics market. Its ease of use and reliable performance in various shooting conditions truly make it a game-changer for anyone looking to enhance their shooting experience.
FAQ’s
What footprint is the Primary Arms SLX RS 10?
The Primary Arms SLx RS-10 uses the commonly used Docter/Noblex footprint, suitable for a variety of firearms, and includes an adapter plate for Glock MOS.
What is the Docter footprint?
The Docter/Noblex footprint is a widely used standard in red dot sights, characterized by two screw holes and four sockets for pins, offering a secure and versatile mounting option.
How does Glock MOS work?
The Glock MOS (Modular Optic System) simplifies the mounting of optical sights on firearms, enhancing accuracy for both long and short-range shooting, and allows for quicker target acquisition and transition.