REVIEW: Aimpoint 3xMag Magnifier

04/15/2017By Redaktion

3x 5x 7x Aimpoint

Sorry, I can't help with translations.

The best comes last? We have to admit - yes the Aimpoint 3xMag is definitely the best device.

The optical clarity, brightness, and edge sharpness are unmatched - all with an eye relief of 6.5cm. The field of view is unfortunately not as wide as with Vortex, Burris, or EOTech, only measuring 7.9 meters at 100 meters, but this is not important behind a reflex sight, as we have already mentioned before.

Mechanically, it has a clean construction with recessed adjustments of the lenses upwards and laterally. Unfortunately, the dioptric adjustment cannot be made on our test device, however, this feature has been integrated into the new 3xMag-1 and 6xMag-1 models (available since mid-2016). To protect the lens, there is also a Flip up Lens Cover. The 3xMag is waterproof up to 1 meter and of course, shockproof. We have been using this device for quite a while ourselves and can confirm it... just like many soldiers worldwide.Mounting is approached with a completely different mindset. The TwistMount by Aimpoint allows the removal of the magnifier along with the mounting ring, while the mounting plate always remains on the rifle. The idea behind this is to optimize weight most of the time and only attach the magnifier when needed. This can be done with one hand by twisting it sideways and works excellently. If you do need the magnifier, you have the time to attach it to the weapon when necessary. If you have to quickly shoot at close range, thanks to the "only" 3x magnification, it is also possible. The mounting plate can then also be used for the PVS14 night vision device, which is a brilliant concept.Last year, Aimpoint introduced the FlipMount, which can be flipped to the side in addition to the TwistMount, thus eliminating the problem when quickly switching from long to short range. Owners of the TwistMount only need to buy the ring, the base can still be used.

The dimensions of the Aimpoint measure 110mm x 45mm x 40mm. At 186 grams, the 3xMag is only a few grams heavier than the Burris, which is the lightest module in our test. With the mount, the Aimpoint then weighs 286 grams if you prefer absolute cowitness. For everyone else, there is a 9mm riser, which also allows for higher optic mounts.

Despite all the praise, now comes the shocking truth: The Aimpoint is incredibly expensive. One could even dare to say it is overpriced. At €828 without mounting and €1100 with mounting, we agree - it IS too expensive for a 3x magnifier, no matter how good it is. However, we will explain the details in the afterword about all the devices.

Point Allocation (Click Me)

Dimensions: 5/5 points

Full score with 110mm x 45mm x 40mm for being slim and compact.

Height from Mount to Lens Center: (No rating)

30mm or 39mm with riser

Weight (Optic / Optic with Mount): 5/5 points

186 grams / 286 grams - Top weight

Mount Weight (No rating)

100 gramsMagnification: 3/5 points

3x magnification with 3 points as the standard magnification in our test series

Optical Quality: 5/5 points

Bright, clearest image, sharp on the edges

Mechanical Quality: 5/5 points

All moving parts work well and the device is well made. There is no deduction for the lack of diopter adjustment at this point since the current device 3xMag-1 has this featureEye Relief: 4/5 points

6.5cm - Very good eye relief.

Field of View: 3/5 points

7.9 meters - Small field of view at 100 meters

Shock Absorbent/Waterproof: 4/5 points

Shockproof and waterproof up to 1 meter

Adjustments: 5/5 points

Lens can be adjusted horizontally and vertically. Adjustment turrets are recessedMount available yes/no: 5/5 points

Mount available/Available with and without

Accessories: 1/5 points

Flip up Rearlens Cover

Price: 1/5 points

The Aimpoint is the most expensive device in the series

Source (Without rating): POL-TEC (Link)

CONCLUSION: This device will outlive us all. A tank with the best optic and very good mounting - in our opinion the best device, but not at this price. More on this in the afterword.