Q4 2025 Firearm Optics Sector & Black Friday Sales Deals Analysis

The fourth quarter of 2025 represents a pivotal moment in the small arms optics industry, characterized by a distinct shift from the supply-chain constrained pricing of the early 2020s to a saturated, highly competitive “buyer’s market.” As we analyze the Black Friday 2025 sales landscape, it becomes evident that manufacturers and major retailers are engaged in aggressive inventory rationalization strategies. This report analyzes the top 25 firearm optics deals of the season, selected not merely for their percentage discount, but for their strategic value to the consumer, technical relevance, and market positioning.

The overarching theme of the 2025 holiday sales cycle is the democratization of professional-grade technology. Features that were previously gated behind substantial price barriers—such as thermal imaging sensors with usable resolution, fiber-optic daylight illumination in variable optics, and enclosed emitter architectures for pistol sights—are now permeating the mid-tier and budget categories. Retailers like Palmetto State Armory (PSA), EuroOptic, Primary Arms, and OpticsPlanet are leveraging these technological trickledowns to drive volume, resulting in price floors on legacy “Gen 2” technology that offer exceptional return on investment (ROI) for the end-user.

Our analysis identifies three primary market forces driving the deals detailed in this report:

  1. The LPVO Bifurcation: The Low Power Variable Optic (LPVO) market has split into two distinct value segments. The entry-level segment, dominated by Vortex and Sig Sauer, has seen prices crash below $250 for duty-capable optics, driven by economies of scale in Chinese manufacturing. Conversely, the premium segment, reliant on Japanese Light Optical Works (LOW) glass, is seeing discounting on specific “Gen II” models as manufacturers prepare to transition to 1-10x and digital hybrid systems.
  2. Thermal Commoditization: The most disruptive trend of 2025 is the rapid deflation of thermal optic pricing. High-resolution sensors (384×288 and 640×480), once exclusively priced for government contracts or affluent enthusiasts, are appearing in sub-$1,600 SKUs. This shift is catalyzing a migration from traditional night vision (image intensification) to thermal imaging for civilian predator management.
  3. The Enclosed Emitter Standard: In the handgun optics sector, the open-reflex sight—long the industry standard—is facing obsolescence pressure from enclosed emitter systems. Retailers are heavily discounting flagship open-emitter models (like the Trijicon RMR Type 2) to clear inventory, creating a unique opportunity for consumers to acquire battle-proven reliability at mid-tier prices.

The following report provides an exhaustive, analyst-grade breakdown of the 25 best opportunities for capital allocation in the optics market this Black Friday.


2. Low Power Variable Optics (LPVO): The Modern Standard

The LPVO remains the dominant optical system for the general-purpose carbine, offering a versatility bandwidth from true 1x close-quarters engagement to 6x or 8x precision fire. The 2025 sales data indicates a “race to the bottom” in terms of pricing for Second Focal Plane (SFP) optics, creating unprecedented value for the consumer.

Deal 1: Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 Gen 2 (w/ Cantilever Mount)

Market Position: Entry-Level Dominance

Retailer: Palmetto State Armory (PSA) / SportOptics

Analysis:

The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 Gen 2 represents the baseline against which all other budget LPVOs are measured. For Black Friday 2025, retailers have structured bundle deals that effectively price the optic chassis near $150 when accounting for the included mount. This pricing strategy is a defensive moat designed to prevent market encroachment by emerging generic brands.

From a technical perspective, the Gen 2 iteration is a significant maturation of the platform. The inclusion of the AR-BDC3 reticle is a critical upgrade over previous iterations. This reticle is specifically calibrated for the ballistic trajectory of common 5.56 NATO and.308 Winchester loads, providing the shooter with rapid holdovers out to 600 yards without the need for turret dialing. The integration of a thread-in throw lever—often a $50 aftermarket accessory—adds to the “turn-key” nature of this deal.1

While the optical system utilizes Chinese-sourced glass, which inherently suffers from tighter eyebox constraints and chromatic aberration at maximum 8x magnification compared to Japanese competitors, the value proposition at ~$219 (including mount) is mathematically difficult to beat. This deal is optimized for the recreational shooter or the “minuteman” rifle build where budget constraints are primary but reliability cannot be sacrificed. The inclusion of the cantilever mount addresses the primary hidden cost of LPVO adoption, making this the most accessible entry point into variable optics this year.3

Deal 2: Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24 SFP Gen IV (ACSS NOVA Reticle)

Market Position: Best-in-Class Illumination

Retailer: Primary Arms / Simmons Sporting Goods

Analysis:

If the Strike Eagle is the value king, the Primary Arms SLx Gen IV NOVA is the performance disruptor. This optic has fundamentally altered the expectations for sub-$400 optics by introducing “fiber wire” illumination technology. Unlike traditional etched reticles which rely on reflecting LED light off the glass—often resulting in reticles that wash out in bright daylight—the NOVA utilizes a fiber optic wire to deliver Red Dot Brightness aiming points.

At a sale price oscillating between $229 and $254, this optic offers a capability that previously required a $600+ investment (such as the Vortex Viper PST Gen II). The Gen IV housing is notably compact and lightweight, addressing the “weight penalty” criticism often leveled at LPVOs. The ACSS NOVA reticle itself is a study in minimalism compared to Primary Arms’ usual complex BDC grids; it provides a simple, ultra-bright red dot for 1x speed, with subtensions available for ranging and drop compensation when needed.5

This deal is particularly significant because it signals a shift in consumer preference toward “speed” and “usability” over raw magnification. For users prioritizing 0-100 yard engagement speed—typical of home defense and tactical competition—the daylight-bright illumination of the NOVA makes it superior to the Strike Eagle, despite the lower 6x magnification ceiling. The market data suggests Primary Arms is using this aggressive pricing to capture the market share of users upgrading from basic red dots.7

Deal 3: Vortex Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6×24

Market Position: The Professional Standard

Retailer: Focus Camera / EuroOptic / PSA

Analysis:

Despite the release of the Gen III 1-10x, the Razor Gen II-E (Enhanced) remains the “gold standard” for professional use. The “E” designation refers to the weight reduction program that shaved nearly 4 ounces off the original chassis, bringing it into competitive parity with lighter optics. The Black Friday price point of $999 (often achieved via discount codes at retailers like Focus Camera) represents a psychological and financial barrier break.

The optical engine of the Razor Gen II-E is manufactured by Light Optical Works (LOW) in Japan, renowned for producing some of the highest clarity glass in the world. The resulting image quality is characterized by exceptional resolution, color fidelity, and contrast. Most notably, the “eyebox” (the volume of space behind the optic where the user can see a full image) is massive, and the scope body bezel virtually disappears from the shooter’s field of view at 1x. This creates a “floating image” effect that provides unmatched situational awareness.9

The discount to $999—down from an MSRP of nearly $2,000—is a strategic move to clear inventory as the market slowly transitions toward 1-10x ratios. However, for 90% of carbine applications, the 1-6x ratio is arguably superior due to the more forgiving light transmission and eyebox characteristics. This deal represents a “buy it for life” opportunity; at this price, the Razor Gen II-E offers a performance-to-cost ratio that outstrips even significantly more expensive modern competitors.11

Deal 4: Sig Sauer Tango-MSR 1-6×24 (Bundle)

Market Position: The Aggressive Challenger

Retailer: Palmetto State Armory / OpticsPlanet

Analysis:

Sig Sauer’s approach to the optics market mirrors their firearm strategy: aggressive innovation combined with relentless value packaging. The Tango-MSR 1-6×24 is designed specifically to undercut the Vortex Strike Eagle by including not just a mount, but also high-quality flip-up lens caps and a throw lever in the box.

Priced around $239, the Tango-MSR competes directly in the budget tier. Analyst reviews and user feedback suggest that the glass quality of the MSR line offers slightly better light transmission and edge-to-edge clarity than comparable Chinese-manufactured competitors. The included Alpha-MSR mount is also notably robust, avoiding the bulk and weight issues common with cheap bundle mounts. The reticle is a standard BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) design, intuitive for shooters familiar with the AR-15 platform.4

This deal highlights Sig Sauer’s vertical integration capability. By controlling the entire ecosystem, they can offer a “ready-to-fight” package that appeals strongly to first-time buyers who are overwhelmed by the complexity of selecting rings, mounts, and leveling tools. The Black Friday pricing effectively removes the friction of entry for new LPVO adopters.14

Deal 5: Nightforce NX8 1-8×24 F1

Market Position: Ultralight Capability

Retailer: EuroOptic / Mile High Shooting

Analysis:

The Nightforce NX8 is a marvel of optical engineering, compressing an 8x zoom ratio and First Focal Plane (FFP) mechanics into a chassis that is merely 8.75 inches long and weighs 17 ounces. This optic is designed for the “Recce” rifle concept, where weight savings and compactness are paramount, but positive identification (PID) at distance is required.

Nightforce products are notoriously resistant to deep discounting. Therefore, the “deals” identified for Black Friday 2025 typically manifest as “Demo,” “Showroom,” or “Open Box” inventory at major distributors like EuroOptic and Mile High Shooting. These units, often priced between $1,500 and $1,755 (vs. $1,950 new), carry the full factory warranty and are indistinguishable from new stock. This 10-20% reduction is significant for a brand of this pedigree.15

The NX8 features a daylight-bright center dot that functions similarly to a red dot at 1x. While the compact optical system does result in a tighter eyebox compared to the larger ATACR line, the trade-off is accepted by users who prioritize mobility. For the discerning buyer building a lightweight, general-purpose rifle, securing an NX8 at these prices is a strategic acquisition of duty-grade reliability.17

Deal 6: Delta Stryker HD 1-6×24

Market Position: The Hidden Gem

Retailer: Darn Fine Shot / Annex Defense / EDgun West

Analysis:

Among industry insiders, the Delta Stryker HD is often described as “95% of a Vortex Razor for 70% of the price.” Manufactured in the same Japanese LOW facility as the Razor Gen II-E, the Stryker shares many of the same desirable characteristics: the disappearing bezel, the daylight-bright illumination dot, and the lightweight chassis.

With Black Friday pricing dipping into the $750 – $849 range, the Stryker represents a massive arbitrage opportunity. It lacks the massive marketing budget and the “no-questions-asked” warranty infrastructure of Vortex, which accounts for the price difference. However, for the pragmatic buyer who prioritizes optical performance over brand support networks, the Stryker is unmatched.19

The DSMR reticle offered in the Stryker is a mil-radian based system, which many precision shooters prefer over the BDC reticles found in other LPVOs. This deal is less about a slashed MSRP and more about acquiring Tier 1 glass at Tier 2 pricing. It is a niche choice, but one that demonstrates high market literacy on the part of the consumer.21

Deal 7: Burris RT-6 1-6×24 (Bundle with PEPR Mount)

Market Position: The Competition Starter

Retailer: Bass Pro / Cabela’s / Battlehawk Armory

Analysis:

The Burris RT-6 has carved out a loyal following in the amateur 3-Gun community. Known for a field of view that exceeds many of its competitors and “fast” glass that facilitates rapid target transitions, it is a dedicated speed optic.

The Black Friday deal, priced between $299 and $349, typically includes the Burris P.E.P.R. (Proper Eye Position Ready) mount. While the mount itself is heavy, it is extremely secure and includes Picatinny tops for mounting secondary reflex sights—a popular configuration in competition. The RT-6 sits in a “Goldilocks” zone of pricing: significantly better optical quality than the sub-$250 tier, but affordable enough for a first competition rifle.23

Burris’s “Forever Warranty” adds a layer of security to the purchase. The aggressive pricing this year suggests Burris is fighting to defend its market share against the encroachment of the Primary Arms NOVA and Sig Tango-MSR. For the shooter looking to enter competitive shooting without mortgaging their house, this bundle remains the logical starting line.25


3. Red Dot & Reflex Sights: The Shift to Enclosed Systems

The market for non-magnified sighting systems is undergoing a technological transition. The “open emitter” design—where the LED projector is exposed to the elements—is rapidly becoming a legacy technology, replaced by “enclosed emitter” sights that seal the optical path with a second pane of glass. This shift is driving massive discounts on formerly flagship open-emitter products.

Deal 8: Vortex SPARC Solar 2 MOA Red Dot

Market Position: Maximum Value / Clearance

Retailer: Palmetto State Armory (PSA)

Analysis:

Statistically, this is the most significant discount of the 2025 season. The Vortex SPARC Solar, originally an MSRP $349.99 optic, is being liquidated at ~$89.99. This ~75% price reduction signals a complete inventory flush, likely to make room for Vortex’s newer “Defender” series of red dots.

Despite the clearance status, the tech specs remain impressive. The “Solar” designation refers to the Auto D-TEC technology, which switches seamlessly between solar power and battery power, extending the CR2032 battery life to a theoretical 150,000 hours. The optic uses the industry-standard Aimpoint Micro T1/T2 footprint, meaning consumers have access to hundreds of aftermarket mounts from companies like Unity Tactical and Reptilia.14

At $90, this optic disrupts the “Amazon cheap” market. It offers a lifetime VIP warranty and duty-grade features for the price of airsoft-grade optics. It is the ideal candidate for a backup rifle, a.22LR trainer, or a budget-constrained home defense build where reliability is still required.28

Deal 9: Holosun 507 Comp (Red or Green)

Market Position: Competition Dominance

Retailer: EuroOptic / Simmons Sporting Goods / Primary Arms

Analysis:

The Holosun 507 Comp has rapidly achieved hegemony in the USPSA and IDPA “Carry Optics” divisions. Its defining feature is a massive optical window—significantly larger than the Trijicon SRO—which allows the shooter to track the dot through the recoil impulse more effectively.

Holosun enforces strict Minimum Advertised Price (MAP) policies, so “deals” on this optic often require “Add to Cart for Price” or “Email for Price” mechanics at retailers like Simmons Sporting Goods and EuroOptic. The street price dropping to the $369 – $399 range represents a significant savings on a high-demand item.29

The Competition Reticle System (CRS) allows users to toggle between a 2 MOA dot, 8 MOA circle, 20 MOA circle, and 32 MOA circle. This versatility is unmatched, allowing a shooter to select a precision dot for distant steel or a massive ring for close-range hosing. While it is an open emitter, its use case (competition) makes this less of a liability. This deal is a “must-buy” for the competitive handgunner.31

Deal 10: Trijicon RMR Type 2 (Adjustable LED)

Market Position: Legacy Duty Standard

Retailer: EuroOptic / SportOptics / Primary Arms

Analysis:

The Trijicon RMR (Ruggedized Miniature Reflex) Type 2 is the optic that legitimized the concept of slide-mounted red dots for police and military duty. Its patented shape diverts impact energy away from the lens, making it nearly indestructible.

However, with the release of the Trijicon RMR HD (a forward-looking light sensor model) and the Trijicon RCR (Rechargeable/Enclosed), the Type 2 is now a “legacy” product. Retailers are pricing the Adjustable LED models in the $478 – $513 range to clear stock. This is a dramatic fall from its historical $600+ street price.33

For the user who values proven reliability over the latest features, this is an exceptional opportunity. The RMR Type 2 has millions of rounds of duty use backing its reputation. While it requires removing the optic to change the battery (a bottom-load design) and is an open emitter, it remains the standard by which all durability is measured. This deal appeals to the “buy once, cry once” crowd who want the industry benchmark at a mid-tier price.35

Deal 11: Holosun 407K / 507K X2

Market Position: Micro-Compact Essential

Retailer: Primary Arms / PSA / Simmons Sporting Goods

Analysis:

The rise of the “Micro-Compact” 9mm carry gun (Sig P365, Glock 43X, Springfield Hellcat) necessitated a new footprint of optic. The Holosun “K” series established this footprint standard.

Black Friday deals see the 407K (6 MOA Dot only) dropping into the $180 range and the 507K (Multi-Reticle) near $220. These optics feature side-loading battery trays (fixing the RMR’s main flaw) and a built-in rear notch sight to facilitate co-witnessing on small slides. The 6 MOA dot of the 407K is particularly favored for defensive use, as the larger dot is easier to acquire under stress.6

While the enclosed EPS Carry is technically superior for debris rejection, the K series remains lighter and slimmer, which matters for deep concealment. These deals keep the K series relevant as the value option for the concealed carrier.27

Deal 12: Lead & Steel Promethean LP-1

Market Position: The Disruptor

Retailer: Lead & Steel / Panther City Tactical

Analysis:

The Promethean LP-1 is a direct challenge to the large-window holographic sights from EOTECH and the Vortex AMG UH-1. However, instead of using laser holography (which consumes batteries rapidly), it uses LED technology to achieve 50,000+ hours of battery life.

Priced around $449 for Black Friday, this optic offers a unique value proposition. It features a “crumple hood” designed to sacrifice itself to save the glass during catastrophic impacts, and “AuraWake” technology that keeps the reticle ready. The large window and crisp LED reticle make it an excellent choice for users with astigmatism who find holographic sights “fuzzy” or “grainy”.38

Lead & Steel is using this aggressive pricing to build user base and credibility. For a “duty grade” large-format optic, this price point undercuts the EOTECH EXPS series by nearly $150, making it an attractive alternative for a primary rifle optic.41

Deal 13: Sig Sauer Romeo 5 Gen 2

Market Position: The Default Option

Retailer: PSA / Amazon / Bereli

Analysis:

The Sig Romeo 5 is the most ubiquitous red dot in America, known for bringing “Shake Awake” (MOTAC) to the masses. The Gen 2 refresh updates the aesthetics and improves the tactile feel of the brightness adjustment buttons.

With deals pushing the Gen 2 down to the $110 – $125 range, it retains its title as the “default” budget optic. While it lacks the solar features of the Vortex SPARC Solar, its track record for surviving abuse is well-documented. It is the safe, conservative choice for a budget build.42

The Gen 2’s enhancements are subtle but meaningful for usability. The clearer glass and better switchgear justify the slight premium over the clearance-priced Gen 1 models. This deal is volume-driven; retailers expect to sell thousands of these units as “stocking stuffers” for gun owners.44

Deal 14: Holosun SCS Carry

Market Position: System Integrated Design

Retailer: Black Raven Industries / EuroOptic

Analysis:

The Solar Charging Sight (SCS) line represents a leap in integration. Designed to mount directly to the slide serrations and footprint of specific guns (like the Glock MOS or PDP) without an adapter plate, it sits low enough to use standard iron sights.

The SCS Carry brings this enclosed-emitter, solar-charging tech to the K-footprint (slimline) market. Black Friday prices around $399 represent the first major discount on this relatively new SKU. The internal battery is non-removable but recharges via solar panels, theoretically lasting indefinitely.30

This optic is for the user who hates maintenance. It has no battery to change, no brightness to adjust (auto-brightness only), and no adapter plate to loosen. It is the ultimate “set and forget” solution for a carry pistol.


4. Precision Rifle & Long Range Optics: Analyzing the Glass

The realm of precision shooting—whether for NRL22 rimfire competition or Extreme Long Range (ELR)—is defined by the quality of the glass and the reliability of the turret tracking. Black Friday 2025 offers specific opportunities to acquire “alpha tier” capability at mid-tier prices.

Deal 15: Bushnell Match Pro ED 5-30×56

Market Position: The Rimfire King

Retailer: Bushnell.com / EuroOptic / Amazon

Analysis:

The Bushnell Match Pro ED has completely monopolized the entry-level precision market, particularly in the NRL22 (Rimfire) discipline. The inclusion of Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass at this price point was a market shock when introduced.

At a deal price of ~$644 – $674, this optic offers a feature set usually reserved for $1,200+ scopes: a 34mm main tube for massive elevation travel, a 56mm objective for brightness, and a First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle (Deploy MIL 2) that is excellent for holdovers. The turrets are locking and feature a true zero-stop.48

This deal is critical because it lowers the barrier to entry for precision competition. A shooter can now build a competitive rig for under $1,500 total. The “ED” glass significantly reduces chromatic aberration (purple fringing), which is vital for seeing bullet holes on paper targets at 300+ yards. It is widely considered the best value in long-range optics today.50

Deal 16: Meopta Optika6 Series (Various Models)

Market Position: European Clarity

Retailer: SportOptics / EuroOptic / OpticsForce

Analysis:

Meopta, based in the Czech Republic, is an OEM manufacturer for many top-tier European brands. Their house-brand Optika6 line utilizes this manufacturing prowess to offer exceptional glass clarity at prices that undercut Asian-manufactured competitors.

Deals on the Optika6 line (ranging from $449 to $699 depending on the 2.5-15x, 3-18x, or 4.5-27x model) offer a “glass-first” value proposition. The DichroTech coatings provide contrast and color fidelity that is noticeably superior to similarly priced options from Vortex or Athlon. These scopes are heavy and built like tanks, utilizing rubber-armored control surfaces.52

This deal appeals to the hunter or shooter who prioritizes optical resolution—the ability to distinguish a tine on a deer’s antler in deep shadow—over tactical features. Meopta’s pricing strategy in the US is aggressive to gain market share against entrenched brands.54

Deal 17: Arken Optics EP-5 5-25×56 / EPL-4

Market Position: The Value Stacker

Retailer: ArkenOpticsUSA.com

Analysis:

Arken Optics exploded onto the scene via social media marketing, promising “guaranteed tracking” at budget prices. Their Black Friday strategy relies on “value stacking”: offering a discount code (bringing prices to ~$350 – $450) combined with a “Goody Bag” of accessories (rings, levels, throw levers) and often a rebate for a free suppressor or other hardware.

The EP-5 is a heavy, robust optic known for turrets that have very distinct, audible clicks—a feature highly prized by precision shooters who dial for every shot. While the glass is not on par with the Meopta or Bushnell ED, the mechanical reliability is the selling point. It tracks true, returning to zero reliably.55

For a budget-conscious builder of a PRS Production Class rifle, this bundle provides everything needed to mount and shoot the optic in one purchase. The ROI is maximized by the accessory inclusion.55

Deal 18: Nightforce ATACR 7-35×56 F1

Market Position: The ELR Summit

Retailer: EuroOptic / Mile High Shooting

Analysis:

The ATACR 7-35x is the reigning king of Extreme Long Range (ELR) shooting. It is the optic of choice for military snipers and King of 2 Miles competitors alike. Its optical system allows for parallax adjustment down to 10 meters, making it uniquely versatile for everything from rimfire trainers to.50 BMG anti-materiel rifles.

As with the NX8, Black Friday deals on the ATACR are typically found in “Demo” or “Open Box” inventories. Securing a unit for ~$3,400 (vs. the $3,800+ MSRP) is a significant saving on a flagship product. These units are inspected by Nightforce and carry full warranties.57

This purchase is an investment in capability. The ATACR is virtually indestructible and offers a level of image resolution and mechanical precision that has no upgrade path. It is the end-game optic.18

Deal 19: Zeiss Conquest V4 4-16×44

Market Position: Precision Hunting

Retailer: EuroOptic / SportOptics

Analysis:

The Zeiss Conquest V4 bridges the gap between American-style utility and German optical precision. At a sale price of ~$649, it competes directly with the Vortex Viper PST Gen II but offers superior light transmission due to Zeiss’s T* (T-Star) coatings.

This optic features exposed elevation turrets with a ballistic stop, allowing hunters to dial for distance, while the windage turret is capped to prevent accidental adjustment in the field. The 4-16x magnification range is ideal for western hunting, covering everything from timber stalks to cross-canyon shots.58

The value here is in the “glass-to-weight” ratio. It is significantly lighter than tactical scopes, making it ideal for a mountain rifle where every ounce counts. The $649 price point makes Zeiss ownership accessible to the mid-tier market.60

Deal 20: Swarovski Z3 3-10×42

Market Position: Lightweight Classic

Retailer: Camera Land NY / SportOptics / 1 Shot Gear

Analysis:

Swarovski is synonymous with brightness. The Z3 is their entry-level line, designed specifically for the American market’s 1-inch tube standard. Black Friday deals often see this optic dip slightly in price or include significant accessory bundles, pricing it around $750 – $800.

The Z3 is incredibly lightweight (around 12 ounces), making it the perfect match for a classic featherweight hunting rifle. The optical quality is staggering, often outperforming scopes with much larger objective lenses due to the efficiency of the Swarovski glass and coatings.61

This deal is for the traditionalist who does not need dialable turrets or illuminated Christmas-tree reticles, but simply wants the brightest possible image in the last 5 minutes of legal shooting light.63


5. Thermal Imaging & Night Vision: The Digital Frontier

The most dynamic sector of the 2025 market is thermal imaging. The technology curve is accelerating, pushing prices of “last year’s” tech down rapidly.

Deal 21: AGM Rattler V2 25-384 Thermal Scope

Market Position: The Thermal Gateway

Retailer: Night Vision Outfitters / The Thermal Store / EuroOptic

Analysis:

The AGM Rattler series single-handedly lowered the barrier to entry for thermal hunting. The V2 update addresses the primary complaints of the V1 by adding a proprietary rechargeable battery system (solving the CR123A hunger) and improved refresh rates.

The “384” in the name refers to the sensor resolution (384×288). This is the critical threshold for usability; resolutions lower than this (like 256) are pixelated and difficult to use for identification past 100 yards. At a sale price of ~$1,595, the Rattler V2 25-384 offers a detection range suitable for hog and coyote hunting inside 300 yards.65

This pricing is a watershed moment. It moves thermal from a “group buy” asset to an individual purchase. The Rattler also functions as a handheld scanner, adding to its utility.65

Deal 22: Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XL50

Market Position: High Definition Dominance

Retailer: Thermal Optics Plus / Outdoor Life (reporting on PSA)

Analysis:

At the opposite end of the spectrum is the Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XL50. This unit features a 1024×768 HD thermal sensor—the highest resolution commercially available in a rifle scope form factor. It provides image detail that rivals black-and-white photography, allowing for positive identification of game species (e.g., distinguishing a coyote from a domestic dog) at extended ranges.

Retailers are clearing these flagship models with discounts ranging from $1,500 to $2,000 off, bringing the price to ~$5,499. While expensive, this represents a massive percentage drop. The integrated Laser Range Finder (LRF) feeds data directly into a ballistic calculator, adjusting the reticle automatically for drop.68

This deal is for the professional rancher or serious predator hunter who requires the absolute best capability for legal and ethical engagement at night.14


6. Observation, Accessories & Prism Sights

Deal 23: Primary Arms GLx 2x Prism

Market Position: Astigmatism Solution

Retailer: Primary Arms

Analysis:

The GLx 2x Prism is unique in the market. It offers a 2x fixed magnification, which is a “Goldilocks” zone: low enough for both-eyes-open CQB shooting (like a red dot), but with enough magnification to identify targets at 200+ yards.

Crucially, because it uses an etched reticle, it works without batteries and provides a crisp black aiming point that does not “bloom” or “starburst” for shooters with astigmatism. Black Friday pricing around $314 is a modest but welcome discount on a high-demand item.8

The GLx line features premium glass and mounts, sitting above the budget SLx line. For older shooters or those with vision issues, this is often a superior choice to a red dot.71

Deal 24: Vortex Diamondback HD 10×42 Binoculars

Market Position: The “Door Buster”

Retailer: Sportsman’s Warehouse / Amazon / OpticsPlanet

Analysis:

These binoculars are the “Toyota Camry” of the optics world: ubiquitous, reliable, and high value. The “HD” upgrade added dielectric prism coatings, significantly improving brightness over the original model.

At a Black Friday price of ~$129 – $149, these serve as a “door buster” deal. They are priced low enough to be impulse buys or gifts. While they lack the edge-to-edge clarity of the Viper or Razor lines, they are more than adequate for general hunting and observation.72

The Vortex VIP warranty (unlimited, lifetime, transferable) makes these a zero-risk purchase. They are the perfect “truck glass”.74

Deal 25: Leupold SX-4 Pro Guide HD Spotting Scope (20-60×85)

Market Position: Western Hunter’s Choice

Retailer: MeatEater Store / Leupold / Cabela’s

Analysis:

This is a serious tool for the western hunter who needs to judge antler size from a mile away. The SX-4 features Leupold’s “Twilight Max” light management system, which optimizes the image for the blue/red spectrums prevalent at dawn and dusk.

Deals pricing this scope around $999 (often bundled with gift cards) represent a clearing of Gen 1 inventory as Leupold introduces Gen 2 updates. The 85mm objective lens gathers massive amounts of light, but the magnesium body keeps the weight reasonable for packing.76

For the hunter planning a once-in-a-lifetime elk or mule deer hunt, this scope offers the performance needed to save miles of hiking.76

Deal 26: EOTECH EXPS3-0 Holographic Sight

Market Position: The Night Vision Standard

Retailer: EuroOptic / Bereli / Palmetto State Armory

Analysis:

Holographic sights differ from red dots in that they use a laser to project a hologram. This results in zero parallax error and a reticle that appears to float on the target plane. The EXPS3-0 is the Night Vision compatible model, widely considered the best passive aiming solution under NVGs due to its high light transmission.

With prices softening to the $550 – $620 range, EOTECH is responding to pressure from “hybrid” competitors. This optic remains the gold standard for CQB speed and NVG use. It is a proven, combat-hardened piece of equipment available at a consumer-friendly price.79

Deal 27: Riton Optics (Various Models)

Market Position: Maximum Budget Savings

Retailer: RitonOptics.com / Bereli

Analysis:

Riton Optics is aggressively fighting for market share with a “Riton the Money” rebate campaign. By combining up to 50% off sales with cash-back rebates (e.g., $50 back), they are creating price floors that are hard to ignore for budget builds.

While Riton lacks the brand cachet of Vortex or Leupold, their “Primal” and “Conquer” lines offer surprisingly decent glass for the liquidation prices. This is the choice for the shooter who wants to put glass on a spare rifle for the absolute lowest cost possible.81


7. Summary of Opportunities

The table below summarizes the 27 key deals analyzed in this report, providing direct reference to the retailer and the nature of the discount.

RankOptic ModelDeal Price (Est.)Discount TypeBest Use CaseRetailer Source
1Vortex SPARC Solar$89.99Clearance (75% Off)Home Defense / Budget27
2Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x$219.99Bundle w/ MountGeneral Purpose AR-151
3Primary Arms SLx 1-6x NOVA$229.99Sale PriceCQB / Run & Gun6
4Trijicon RMR Type 2$478.00Sale PriceDuty Pistol34
5Holosun 507 Comp$369.00Add-to-Cart PriceCompetition Pistol29
6Vortex Razor Gen II-E 1-6x$999.00Coupon CodePro/Duty LPVO9
7Bushnell Match Pro ED 5-30x$644.00Sale PriceNRL22 / Precision Rimfire48
8AGM Rattler V2 25-384$1,595.00Sale PriceThermal Hunting Entry65
9Holosun 407K / 507K$180-$220Sale PriceCCW / Micro Compact6
10Sig Sauer Tango-MSR 1-6x$239.00Bundle w/ MountBudget All-in-One13
11Primary Arms GLx 2x Prism$314.00Sale PriceAstigmatism / Carbine8
12Lead & Steel Promethean LP-1$449.00Sale PriceNV / Duty Rifle38
13Nightforce NX8 1-8x$1,500.00Demo / Open BoxUltra-light Recce15
14Meopta Optika6 Series$449+Sale PriceHunting / Clarity52
15Arken EP-5 / EPL-4$350+Code + RebatesBudget Long Range55
16Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XL50$5,499Clearance ($2k Off)Pro Thermal14
17Vortex Diamondback HD 10×42$129.00DoorbusterGeneral Observation72
18Sig Romeo 5 Gen 2$110.00Sale PriceBasic Red Dot42
19Delta Stryker HD 1-6x$750.00Sale PriceValue Razor Alternative20
20EOTECH EXPS3-0$550.00Sale PriceNV / Holographic79
21Burris RT-6 Bundle$300.00Bundle w/ Mount3-Gun Starter23
22Zeiss Conquest V4$649.00Sale PriceHunting Crossover59
23Leupold SX-4 Spotting Scope$999.00Sale PriceWestern Hunting76
24Nightforce ATACR 7-35x$3,400Demo / Open BoxELR Competition57
25Riton Optics SeriesVarRebates (Up to 50%)Maximum Budget Savings81
26Holosun SCS Carry$399.00Sale PriceIntegrated Carry30
27Swarovski Z3 3-10×42$750.00Sale PriceLightweight Hunting61

8. Conclusion

The 2025 optics market is defined by a surplus of high-quality inventory. The wise consumer will look past the marketing hype of “Gen 3” or “Gen 4” releases and identify where the “Gen 2” technology—which is often 95% as capable—is being liquidated. The Vortex Strike Eagle bundle and the clearance pricing on Trijicon RMR Type 2s are prime examples of this phenomenon. Simultaneously, the thermal market has finally matured to a point where entry-level devices are genuinely capable tools rather than novelties.


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