Prism scopes don’t offer higher magnification when compared to the red dot, which apart from offering good eye relief it is magnified. The prism scopes are, however, highly functional and come with an etched reticle.

Choosing between a prism scope and a red dot can be a daunting task because both optical sights are highly functional when used either for hunting or long-range shooting. So to make the job easy for you we will prepare a summary of their features illustrating their differences then we will do a comprehensive review to determine which of the sights performs better.

What are the differences between the Prism Scope and the Red dot?

Prism scope vs Red dot – How Do They Compare?

• Optical Performance

The Burris AR 332 prism scope has been specially configured for use with the tactical carbines; the reason being that it enables faster target acquisition when engaging the fast-moving targets or when shooting at a close range. The unit will additionally provide you with up to 32 feet field of view so that apart from target acquisition you can assess the surrounding environment first.

The sight is waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof, and comes complete with a fully multi-coated lens that are not only clear but enhances brightness. The optical sight offers one dot size which then makes it highly versatile and you can therefore use it on targets that are at a far distance.

The Burris red dot fastfire III has been equipped with an equally highly accurate optical sight, that offers two dot sizes, the 3MOA and the 8MOA, both of which can be used respectively at either short or long ranges. The only problem with this sight is that users will have to depend on the automatic brightness sensor to ensure that their sight complements the existing environment.

In overall, therefore, the Burris Ar 322 prism scope offers the best optical performance first because it is equipped with a 3x magnification and illuminated ballistic reticle, offers a field of view of up to 32 feet and the fully multicoated lenses enable brightness and clarity.

• Objective lens diameter

The diameter of your optical sights objective lens will determine the clarity of the images provided, and as a rule of thumb if you wish to attain the high-resolution images then you will have to settle for an optical sight with a larger diameter objective lens. The Burris Ar 322 prism scope has incorporated a larger diameter objective lens measuring 32mm.

The above then means that the sight admits in more light consequently offering high-resolution images. The Burris fast fire III, on the other hand, has been equipped with a smaller objective lens when compared to the prism scope which then means that its performance is quite low given that it doesn’t admit more light into the lens. The above then makes the Burris Ar 322 prism scope the better sight because of its ability to render high resolution and clear images.

• Waterproof rating and submersion

Both the Burris Ar 322 prism scope and the Burris fastfire III red dot are waterproof, meaning that they will well suffice when used in moist environments without admitting water into the sight and neither will it fog up. So while being waterproof makes both the sights versatile and functional, a submersible optical sight will definitely be more attractive to many shooters.

The Burris Fastfire III is, therefore, submersible a feature that gives it a competitive edge when compared to the Burris Ar 322 optic sight that is only waterproof.

• Weight

At 14.2oz the Burris Ar 322 prism scope is the heaviest unit, and will, therefore, add to the weight of your weapon, a thing that most shooters dislike because, in theory, the added pounds tend to affect transition from one target to another. The weapon will also be a bit heavier but some enthusiasts enjoy the extra pounds as they say it helps with recoil.

The Burris Fastfire III, on the other hand, weighs a mere 1.5oz, the featherweight encourages quick transition between targets, dot recovery is a breeze, and engaging a target is much easier especially where speed is of the essence, a feature that makes the Burris fastfire III the better unit.

Prism Scope vs the Red dot scope- A comparison Overview

Burris Ar 332 Prism Sight Multi-Coated Optics

Burris Ar 332 Prism Sight Multi Coated Optics 1.5 Inch Sunshade Matte Ballistic Cq

Check Price

The Burris AR 322 is a heavyweight optical unit, with a professional outlook complete with customizable dials that have been positioned within the shooter’s reach. The unit is bulky and quite large in size, offers users a 3MOA dot size in a tunnel-shaped design, therefore, users who wish to get the best performance at a short-range then this is the unit to settle with.

The above is not to say that the prism scope is not efficient at longer ranges, and you will, therefore, be provided with a bullet drop compensation out to 500 yards. What’s more, is that you can expect to be treated to a clear sharp view thanks o the multi-coated lenses.

Pros

• Offers better contrast and faster targeting
• The sight is waterproof
• Comes equipped with unique ballistic/CQ reticle

Cons 

• Retails at a rather higher price

View Price on Amazon

Burris Fastfire III with Picatinny Mount

Burris Fastfire III with Picatinny Mount

Check Price

Faster red dot recovery, easy transition between targets, high waterproof rating, and highly submersible are the functional features that most shooters look out for in the optical sights and which you will get in the Burris Fastfie III. And even more interesting is that the accuracy of target acquisition has been enabled by the automatic brightness sensor, which enables shooters to adjust and match their environmental conditions, with the option of manually tweaking the three brightness settings.

Pros

• Windage and elevation adjustments don’t require tools
• Feature a lightweight construction
• Users get to choose between the 3MOA or the 8MOA red dot

Cons

• Battery life not durable

View Price on Amazon

Conclusion

For a versatile optical sight the Burris fastfire red dot III is the better unit because it offer up to two red dot sizes. But for a highly functional unit that will provide clear images, with varied brightness level.

Final Verdict

The Prism scope is the better unit because it has been equipped with a large objective lens diameter is water proof and offers both the red and the green dot.

FAQ’s

1. Is it possible to remove the Picatinny mount on the Burriss Fasfire III red dot and mount it on the Burris Fastfire mounting plate for a Glock?

Yes, the switch can be done successfully, more especially because they come in separate boxes.

2. Is it possible to obtain more adjustment, when my Burris Ar 332 Prism Sight adjustments have maxed out?

Yes, it is possible, the problem is often a result of alignment on the weapon, and is, therefore, difficult to put your finger on the one specific feature that caused it, as it could either be the drilled and tapped holes, the bases, rings or the threading in of the barrel at an angle.

To rectify the alignment issues, you will have to check on the windage adjustable bases, and you can shim the base if you find out the issue is with the sight’s elevation.