These All Kinda Suck... Primary Arms Pistol Red Dots (RS-10, Classic Mini, Classic Micro)

Published on February 19, 2023
Duration: 18:53

This review critically examines three Primary Arms pistol red dot sights: the RS-10, Classic Mini, and Classic Micro. While the RS-10 offers better build quality and features like a removable battery tray and 7075 aluminum construction, it suffers from a poor emitter refresh rate. The Classic Mini and Micro, built from less durable 6061 aluminum with bottom-loading batteries and lacking auto-on, are noted for insufficient brightness and potential wandering zero issues, respectively. The reviewer suggests improvements for future iterations, particularly for the RS-10, to make it a competitive option in its price bracket.

Quick Summary

The Primary Arms RS-10 offers better build quality and features like auto on/off, but suffers from a poor emitter refresh rate. The Classic Mini and Micro, built with less durable materials, lack auto-on, have insufficient brightness, and the Micro exhibits wandering zero issues, making them generally not recommended for critical applications.

Chapters

  1. 01:23Introduction to Primary Arms Pistol Red Dots
  2. 01:38Primary Arms RS-10 Overview
  3. 03:33Primary Arms Classic Mini & Micro Overview
  4. 05:43RS-10 Performance Issues: Refresh Rate
  5. 06:48Micro & Mini Performance Issues: Brightness
  6. 07:35Mini Optic Window Size
  7. 07:50Micro Optic Issues: Battery & Zero
  8. 09:00Mini Optic Zero Shift Discussion
  9. 09:38Contacting Primary Arms About Issues
  10. 10:02Comparison to Holosun and Overall Recommendation
  11. 10:51Conclusion: Can't Recommend Current Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between the Primary Arms RS-10 and the Classic Mini/Micro red dots?

The RS-10 is built with stronger 7075 aluminum, features a removable battery tray for easier changes without re-zeroing, and includes auto on/off. The Classic Mini and Micro use 6061 aluminum, have bottom-loading batteries requiring re-zeroing, and lack auto-on functionality, making them less ideal for duty or concealed carry.

What are the primary performance issues with the Primary Arms RS-10 red dot?

The main drawback of the RS-10 is its poor emitter refresh rate, estimated between 30-45 Hz. While the dot is bright enough for daylight, the refresh rate can be noticeable when moving the optic, though it's unlikely to significantly impact shooting splits.

What are the key problems with the Primary Arms Classic Mini and Micro red dots?

Both Classic models suffer from insufficient brightness for very bright conditions. The Classic Micro specifically has issues with random battery shut-offs and a wandering zero, requiring frequent re-zeroing after about 100 rounds, which is a major concern for reliability.

Are the Primary Arms Classic Mini and Micro red dots recommended for concealed carry?

The reviewer strongly advises against using the Classic Mini and Micro for concealed carry due to their lack of auto-on functionality, potential for random shut-offs (Classic Micro), and the need to re-zero after battery changes. The wandering zero issue on the Micro is also a significant reliability concern.

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