If you are looking for a high-quality rifle scope that can handle any shooting situation, you might want to check out the new Primary Arms 3-18×44 (see our GLx 3-18×44 review here) and 4.5-27×56 FFP GLx rifle scopes. These scopes are part of the GLx line, which offers premium technology and materials at an affordable price.
Whether you are hunting, target shooting, or competing, these scopes will give you the flexibility and performance you need to hit your mark. In this article, we will review the features and benefits of the 3-18×44 and 4.5-27×56 FFP GLx rifle scopes. By the end, you will have a better idea of which scope suits your needs and preferences best.
Primary Arms’ 3-18×44 and 4.5-27×56 FFP GLx rifle scopes share numerous characteristics that make them both versatile and reliable choices for shooters. They both have First Focal Plane (FFP) reticles, which scale with the target as you adjust the magnification, allowing for accurate range estimation and holdovers at any magnification level.
The 3-18×44 and 4.5-27×56 FFP GLx rifle scopes are designed with an objective lens diameter of 44mm and 56mm respectively, offering a clear, bright field of view. The magnification range for the 3-18×44 is 3x to 18x, while the 4.5-27×56 scope provides a range of 4.5x to 27x, catering to both close-to-medium range and long-range shooting scenarios.
Both scopes offer multiple reticle options designed for specific cartridges or a more versatile mil-based grid system, giving shooters the flexibility to choose the best fit for their shooting preferences. They also feature AutoLive motion sensing illumination technology, ensuring optimal reticle visibility in varying light conditions.
While the 3-18×44 and 4.5-27×56 FFP GLx rifle scopes share many features, they also have unique characteristics that set them apart. The 4.5-27×56 scope, being larger and heavier, is specifically designed for precision long-range shooting, and its higher magnification range gives shooters a significant advantage at extended distances.
In contrast, the 3-18×44 scope is a more compact and lightweight solution, making it a more versatile option for a wider range of shooting scenarios, including hunting and tactical applications.
Specification | Value |
Objective Lens Diameter | 44 mm |
Magnification | 3 – 18 x |
Reticle | ACSS Athena BPR MIL or ACSS Apollo .308/6.5 Grendel |
Reticle Focal Plane | First Focal Plane (FFP) |
Color | Black |
Battery Type | CR2032, Stand Alone Lithium |
Elevation Adjustment | 180 MOA |
Eye Relief | 3.5″ |
Main Tube Diameter | 34 mm |
Length | 13.66″ |
Weight | 29.6 Oz |
Body Material | 6061-T6 aluminum |
Glass Quality | Premium grade |
Turret Mechanisms | Patented locking and return to zero turrets |
Adjustment Type | Steel-on-Steel precision adjustments |
Click Value | Tactile and audible 1/10 MIL |
Specification | Value |
Objective Lens Diameter | 56 mm |
Magnification | 4.5 – 27 x |
Reticle | ACSS-Apollo-6.5CR/.224V or ACSS Athena BPR MIL |
Reticle Focal Plane | First Focal Plane (FFP) |
Color | Black |
Battery Type | CR2032, Stand Alone Lithium |
Tube Diameter | 30 mm or 34 mm |
Eye Relief | 3.5″ |
Length | 14.25″ |
Weight | 32.5 Oz |
Body Material | 6061-T6 aluminum |
Glass Quality | Premium grade |
Turret Mechanisms | Patented locking and return to zero turrets |
Adjustment Type | Steel-on-Steel precision adjustments |
Click Value | Tactile and audible 0.1 MIL |
Both the 3-18×44 FFP GLx and 4.5-27×56 FFP GLx rifle scopes are equipped with a host of useful features to help shooters achieve precision and consistency. These features include patented locking and return to zero turrets, AutoLive motion sensing illumination, and adjustable reticle brightness for different lighting conditions.
The scopes are also made with premium-grade glass and a durable 6061-T6 aluminum body, enhancing both optical performance and durability.
The patented locking and return to zero turrets feature present in both scopes are incredibly beneficial for maintaining your zero and making precise adjustments.
These turrets work by locking in place once you’ve set your zero, avoiding accidental changes during field operations. The return to zero feature allows rapid return to the original elevation setting without tracking your adjustments.
Both scopes come equipped with AutoLive motion sensing illumination technology. This feature turns off the illumination when the gun is stationary for a few minutes, preserving battery life. The illumination resumes when you pick up the gun, ensuring the reticle is always visible when you need it.
The 3-18×44 FFP GLx and 4.5-27×56 FFP GLx rifle scopes offer different reticle options designed to cater to various shooting needs and preferences, enabling accurate targeting at a range of distances.
The 3-18×44 FFP GLx rifle scope features the ACSS Athena BPR MIL and ACSS Apollo .308/6.5 Grendel reticles. The ACSS Athena BPR MIL reticle employs a mill-based grid system, whereas the ACSS Apollo reticles are bullet drop compensation (BDC) based, specifically tailored for 6.5 Creedmoor or .308 Winchester cartridges.
The GLx 4.5-27×56 offers two reticle options: ACSS-Apollo-6.5CR/.224V and ACSS Athena BPR MIL. The ACSS-Apollo-6.5CR/.224V reticle is specifically designed for 6.5 Creedmoor and .224 Valkyrie cartridges, while the ACSS Athena BPR MIL reticle uses a mil-based grid system, compatible with any caliber.
Both scopes are designed with reticles that aid in ranging, holdovers, and windage adjustments. The reticle’s grid system allows for easy calculation of holdovers to compensate for bullet drop at various distances.
The reticle also provides guidance on windage adjustments, aiding in target acquisition even in challenging conditions.
The 3-18×44 FFP GLx and 4.5-27×56 FFP GLx rifle scopes are made with premium grade glass and a robust 6061-T6 aluminum body. These materials significantly influence the optical performance and durability of the scopes.
The high-quality glass provides a clear, bright image, while the sturdy body construction ensures the scope withstands the wear and tear of regular use.
To ensure your scopes’ longevity, it’s crucial to regularly clean the lenses with a microfiber cloth and check for any loose parts or damage.
Storing the scopes in a cool, dry place when not in use helps avoid moisture accumulation and potential damage. These simple maintenance steps can significantly extend the lifespan of your 3-18×44 FFP GLx and 4.5-27×56 FFP GLx rifle scopes.
The 3-18×44 FFP GLx rifle scope is designed with user-friendly features like adjustable turrets for different shooting scenarios. For example, if you’re shooting at a long-range target, you’ll likely need to dial in more elevation to account for bullet drop.
The locking and return to zero turrets make this process simple and efficient, ensuring your rifle remains accurate and consistent between shots.
The 4.5-27×56 FFP GLx rifle scope from Primary Arms is designed to enhance your long-range shooting capabilities. The first focal plane (FFP) reticle scales with the target as you zoom in or out, useful for accurate range estimation and holdovers at any magnification level.
The fine aiming dots displayed in 1 MIL increments facilitate easy target ranging and application of holdovers. When used with a ballistic calculator, advanced calculations like spin drift and Coriolis effect can be accounted for without adjusting the turrets.
In conclusion, the Primary Arms 3-18×44 and 4.5-27×56 FFP GLx rifle scopes are excellent options for shooters who want a versatile and reliable scope that can handle any distance and condition.
These scopes feature innovative reticles, locking and zeroing turrets, motion sensing illumination, and premium glass and body. They also offer a great value compared to other similar products in the market. If you are interested in learning more about these scopes or purchasing one for yourself, check out the links at the top of this page to read more about each option.
What are your thoughts on the fresh GLx rifle scopes series by Primary Arms? Is there a particular magnification level or reticle design that piques your interest most significantly?