Primary Arms PLx Compact LPVO: 1.5-12x36 Precision Scope with RDB Reticle

Primary Arms positions the PLx Compact 1.5-12x36 as a high-mobility, high-precision optic designed for compact and lightweight builds. At just 9.75 inches long and 19.7 ounces, this first focal plane scope delivers the magnification range of a traditional LPVO in a noticeably smaller package.

The 1.5x lower magnification provides a wide field of view for rapid target acquisition at close range, while the 12x upper magnification supports precision work out to intermediate distances. The compact form factor shaves length and weight compared to conventional 1-8x or 1-10x scopes without sacrificing optical performance.

Primary Arms equips the PLx Compact with extra-low dispersion glass manufactured in Japan. ED glass reduces chromatic aberration — the color fringing that appears around high-contrast edges — delivering sharper, more accurate images across the magnification range.

The fully multi-coated lens system maximizes light transmission and minimizes reflection, improving image brightness and clarity in low light conditions. Combined with the 36mm objective lens, the PLx Compact provides sufficient light gathering for practical use in dawn and dusk conditions while maintaining the compact profile.

The 30mm main tube provides 100 MOA of elevation adjustment, sufficient for most practical shooting scenarios with 5.56 NATO, .308 Winchester, and similar intermediate cartridges.

The PLx Compact uses Primary Arms' Red Dot Bright (RDB) diffractive reticle technology. Unlike traditional fiber optic or etched illuminated reticles, RDB employs a diffractive optical element to project the reticle illumination.

This approach provides more consistent illumination across different lighting conditions and viewing angles. The reticle remains visible and crisp regardless of ambient light, from bright daylight to low light transitions where traditional illuminated reticles can appear washed out or insufficient.

The AutoLive motion-sensing illumination system conserves battery by entering standby mode when the rifle is stationary. Upon detecting movement, the reticle illumination automatically reactivates. This extends battery life during extended periods in the field or on a ready rack.

Users can configure the Steel-On-Steel (SOS) turrets as either capped or exposed elevation configurations depending on their intended use case. Capped turrets protect adjustments from inadvertent changes, while exposed turrets provide quick dial-up capability for precision shooting.

The PLx Compact launches with two Advanced Combined Sighting System (ACSS) reticle options designed for different shooting applications:

Both reticles are first focal plane, meaning the reticle scales proportionally with magnification. This ensures holdover and wind correction references remain accurate at any magnification setting, particularly valuable in the 1.5-12x range where shooters frequently adjust magnification to match engagement distance.

Primary Arms also revealed the updated Top Cap Reflex Mount (TCRM) V2, designed to integrate a micro reflex sight on top of the scope. This piggyback configuration provides a true 1x offset optic for close quarters work without adjusting the variable scope's magnification.

The V2 revision features increased centerline height and revised mounting geometry for improved clearance and secure interface compatibility with common micro red dot footprints. The higher mount position reduces the need for an extreme chin weld when transitioning from the main scope to the offset optic.

This setup appeals to shooters who run magnified optics but need rapid-fire capability at close range, particularly in competitive shooting, dynamic shooting drills, or tactical applications where engagement distances vary unpredictably.

The PLx Compact 1.5-12x36 targets the growing demand for compact, lightweight LPVOs that deliver premium optical performance without the bulk of traditional variable scopes. At 9.75 inches and under 20 ounces, this scope competes directly with other compact LPVO offerings while adding Primary Arms' RDB reticle technology and AutoLive illumination.

The 1.5-12x magnification range differentiates from conventional 1-8x or 1-10x scopes. The 1.5x lower end sacrifices minimal field of view compared to true 1x but provides a wider view than 2x starts seen on some compact scopes. The 12x upper end extends practical range compared to 8x or 10x options, useful for precision work at 400-600 yards with 5.56 or .308.

Japanese ED glass and RDB technology position this scope in the premium tier, likely competing with offerings from Vortex, Trijicon, and Nightforce in the $1,200-$1,800 range based on Primary Arms' existing PLx lineup. The combination of compact form factor, extended magnification, and diffractive reticle technology differentiates from both budget LPVOs and traditional full-size premium scopes.

The updated TCRM V2 addresses a practical concern with offset optics: mount height and ergonomics. The revised geometry suggests Primary Arms received feedback on the first-generation mount and made adjustments to improve usability without requiring extreme head positions.

Availability in the first half of 2026 gives Primary Arms time to build inventory and refine production before the scope reaches customers. MSRP has not been announced.

Check our Optics Catalog as the PLx Compact becomes available, or use our Interactive Builder to configure your rifle with current optics.