The Primary Arms HTX-1 – Enclosed Emitter Optic

The world of red dot optics has grown exponentially over the past several years. Everybody and their uncle have something to offer. The problem is that many are inexpensive, low-quality optics manufactured abroad and labeled with a company logo. Some companies challenge that model with great success, though. Primary Arms is one of the newest companies to bring a super high-quality red dot to market with their new HTX-1 Enclosed Emitter Optic.

The HTX-1 – All American Enclosed Emitter Optic

Made in America, the HTX-1 is a revolutionary enclosed-emitter reflex sight that sets the new standard of American optics. They have even gone so far as to have the actual glass used in the optic made in the U.S. The final product is assembled at Primary Optic headquarters in Houston, Texas. This is also the genesis of the name HTX-1 (Houston, Texas-1)

Patented Chassis System

Its patented chassis mounting system is compatible with almost all existing footprints and offers the lowest possible centerline, co-witnessing with standard height iron sights. Unlike most add-on plates, the chassis system fits precisely into the optics cut. This perfect fit eliminates play between the optic and the gun. This fit also allows the optic to sit low and eliminates the need for special sights. The optic comes with three plates and screws for each pistol. They also go a step further and color code the bags with screws to match specific chassis. This is the attention to detail we are accustomed to seeing with Primary Arms.

The Primary Arms HTX-1 Features a Rugged Housing

Reliable in the most extreme conditions, the HTX-1 features an anti-reflective coating for a crystal-clear sight picture. Its rugged 7075 Aluminum construction is tested and proven reliable against intense exposure and abuse. The housing is also thin along the edges of the lens, which gives us a bigger viewing area, reduces distraction, and allows better shooting performance.

The HTX-1 also features Primary Arm’s patented ACSS Vulcan Dot reticle. It is powered by a side-loaded CR 2032 battery with AutoLive technology for maximum runtime. The reticle’s outer ring can be optionally disabled, leaving a 4 MOA dot reticle. The crispness of the dot and ring cannot be overstated. Even when brightness is run up high, the reticle does not flare out.

The Primary Arms HTX-1 – Enclosed Emitter Optic Performs as Advertised.

While the specs and talking points are impressive, it will always come down to performance. I had the opportunity to test drive the HTX-1 recently on a visit to Primary Arms in Houston. What I found was that the optic was everything they said and more. The glass quality was excellent, and I had no optical aberration at the edges. The red dot was crisp in all settings, and the operation was simple. The buttons on the optic are easy to index and give sufficient tactile response.

I tip my hat to Primary Arms for not only making an exceptional enclosed emitter red dot but also for doing everything here in the U.S. Yes; I understand the nature of international manufacturing and its benefits. However, I have a special loyalty to products made in the U.S. Primary Arms has done what many didn’t have the will or ability to do. The new HTX-1 is an exceptional optic and is above or on par with anything on the market today.