Swampfox Trihawk 3X Prism Scope Review – Clear Choice is brought to you by The Old Deer Hunters. There is an old adage about rifle scopes that says, “You can’t hit what you can’t see”. Well, you have not seen anything until you have looked through the Swampfox Trihawk 3X Prism Scope. This new prism scope, developed for modern AR-style rifles is a game changer for me.
Hunters understand the importance of having the right gear to ensure success in the field. Whether you’re hunting game animals in woods or open fields, having a reliable optic can make all the difference. In this blog post, we’ll explore how the Swampfox Trihawk 3X Prism Scope can enhance your hunting experience with your modern sporting rifle (MSR).
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Discovering the World of Prism Scopes:
What are Prism Scopes?
The military has used the Trijicon ACOG prism scope for years, but most hunters have never used an ACOG or any type of prism scope. ACOG prism scopes are renowned among soldiers for their unparalleled clarity, reliability, and ruggedness. These advanced optics also offer a distinct advantage in various hunting environments, providing hunters with the clarity and precision they need to make accurate shots. Prism scopes excel in short to medium-range shooting and are an excellent choice for hunters who use modern sporting rifles.
Swampfox Optics has made it possible for shooters and hunters to take advantage of this great type of scope for MSRs. Swampfox prism scopes are available in 1X, 3X, and 5X fixed magnification models. Sports shooters who want an optic for close-quarters shooting usually choose the 1X model for fast “both eyes open” shooting, but most hunters turn to the 3X or 5X models for hunting. In this review, I will concentrate on the 3X model. I chose this model, because I think it will be perfect for hog hunting or deer hunting with my AR15 rifles chambered in 223 and 6.5 Grendel.
Swampfox Trihawk 3X Prism Scope Specifications
The Swampfox Trihawk 3X Prism Scope is a high-quality 3X prism scope with an exceptionally wide field of view at 100 yards for fast target acquisition. The Trident reticle provides close and medium-range shooting capabilities using either a 5.56/.308 BDC reticle or MOA ladder, with red or green glass etched “Shake ‘N Wake” reticle illumination. It has a 30 mm objective lens and a fully adjustable ocular lens. Trihawk’s durable and compact design makes it ideal for a modern sporting rifle. Here are the critical spec’s;
| Adjustment Click Value | 0.5 MOA |
| Reticle Type | 5.56 / .308 BDC or MOA Ladder |
| Magnification | 3 x prism scope |
| Lens Diameter | 30mm |
| Illumination Positions | 10 total brightness settings, 2 NV |
| Brightness Adjustments | Up/Down Digital Press |
| Shockproof G Forces | 800Gs |
| Waterproof | 1 Meter/ IPX7 |
| Battery Type | CR123a |
| Max Battery Life | 3,000 hours |
| Dimensions | 4.55”(length) * 2.28” (width) * 3.43”(height) |
| Weight | 15.4 ounces |
| Lens | Picatinny T25 Star Mount Bolts: 35 inch-pound torque. |
| Specialty Coatings | Anti-fog, hydrophobic, anti-scratch |
| Parallax | Parallax free @100 yards |
| Eye Relief | 2.36″, adjustable ocular present |
| Exit Pupil | 9.5mm |
| Mount Type | 6061-T6 Aircraft-grade aluminum |
| Chassis | 6061-T6 Aircraft grade aluminum |
| Windage/Elevation Movement Range (MOA) | ‘+/- 45MOA/ Total 90MOA Range |
Pro’s & Con’s
Very Clear Image
Very Wide Field of View
Compact & Lightweight
Long Battery LIfe
Illuminated
Fixed Power at 3X may not be enough magnification for some shooters
Swampfox Trihawk 3X Prism Scope Findings
One look through the Swampfox Trihawk was all it took to convince me that I needed one. I hunt year-round with my MSRs for hogs, coyotes, and sometimes for deer. The image quality of the Trihawk is exceptionally clear. The field of view is very wide, twice as wide as the average traditional scope at 3X magnification. The Swampfox Trihawk 3X has a true ten-degree field of view, offering superior situational awareness compared to other 3X prism scopes.
Today’s trends for AR shooters are low-power variable optics (LPVO) or high-power variable scopes with first focal plane reticles. These scopes may be great for close-quarters shooting, or long-range target matches, but neither are great hunting scopes at typical medium-range engagements of 50-200 yards. The reticles are very hard to see at low power and the scopes are usually large and quite heavy.
In that critical range of 50-200 yards where about 95% of shots for hogs and deer are taken, the Trihawk’s very clear and sharp image is totally adequate. Shooting from the window rest of my deer blind, I can easily hit a six inch target out to 200 yards. It is amazing how well you can aim with the Trihawk. The etched reticle lets you aim precisely without covering the target like a red dot or traditional crosshair. The area around the target you see through the scope is also much larger.
That larger image area makes it easier to pick up moving game or see another animal to the side of your target animal. You can observe more in the scope without moving from side to side. I have always been a proponent of a larger field of view for thermal scopes. Now I can have the option of a larger field of view in a daytime scope.
The Trihawk is always in focus out to 200 yards. Swampfox says the Trihawk is parallax free @100 yards. I did not notice any movement of the reticle at any distance out to 200 yards, even when I moved my head from side to side. Excellent choice for someone with astigmatism who has issues with dot sights. This is one of the main reasons I use a prism scope instead of a red dot sight. I can clearly see this prism scope reticle. The dot in a red dot sight or LPVO looks more like a diagonal bar to me than a dot.
The etched, illuminated chevron-shaped reticle is razor sharp. The BDC lines are clear and easy to see for ranges past 200 yards, thanks the high glass quality. Fast focus adjustable ocular lens lets you to set the focus for your eye.
The reticle is similar to many LPVO second focal plane reticles. It has crosshairs merging into a circle with a chevron aiming point in the center. The circle, chevron, and BDC/MOA ladder is illuminated. The illumination does not “glow” in bright sunlight but is a darker shade of green or red that still helps with aiming. In daytime shade, it appears bright.
Hunting in low light conditions at dawn, I turned the illumination down to low setting so the horseshoe did not over power the center of the reticle. I find this common for a these type reticles. I had no trouble taking a coyote the came by in the dark shadows on my first hunt.
The Shake N’ Wake technology automatically illuminates the reticle when you pick up your firearm and turn it off after a period of inactivity, saving battery life. Red illumination or green illumination is available. The etched reticle ensures visibility even if the illumination fails, providing a reliable aiming point in any situation. It uses one CA123 battery and lasts for 3000 hrs.
Resolution is equal or exceeds traditional scopes that cost twice as much. I can see 1″ tall letters and bar separation on an Air Force 1951 resolution chart at 100 yards. My shooting buddy, Fred, and I compared three traditional scopes in the $500-750 range with the Trihawk and we agreed the Trihawk had equal or clearer image quality.
Shooting at 200 yards, I can easily aim at 4″ square targets. That is the size of the kill zone size of a coyote. I have only shot one coyote at about 75 yards so far, but a 200-yard shot should be very possible. Swampfox recommends the Trihawk be zeroed at 50 yards for the 223/5.56 BDC. Zeroing a 223/5.56 with a 55-grain bullet will give you a trajectory to be about 1-1.5″ high at 100 yards and back down to zero at 200 yards. That coincides for the maximum point blank range for a 4″ target (coyotes) out to about 225 yds. For 150gn 308 Winchester, the trajectory would be close to the same.
The turrets are capped and have standard coin slots for adjustment. The adjustments feel very tight, almost like a friction instead of individual clicks. Moving the adjustments moves the reticle quickly unlike typical rifle scopes that only move 1/4″ per click. I was able to quickly zero the scope and it holds zero on my 6.5 Grendel with no issues.
Mounting The Trihawk 3X Prism Scope
The eye relief of the Trihawk is about 2 1/2″ which is adequate, but I wanted the scope to sit farther back on the rifle. Not for greater eye relief but for positioning. I solved this issue with a low-profile rail extension. The Monstrum Picatinny rail extension set my scope back about one inch. I can now see the full field of view with my stock fully extended. Plus the rear of the rail is relieved so it is still easy to grab the charging handle. Great help from Monstrum Tactical. More information and link below.
Among the few prism scopes available to hunters, the Swampfox Trihawk 3X Prism Scope stands out as my top choice for hunters seeking exceptional performance at an affordable price. Crafted with precision engineering and built to withstand the rigors of the hunt, the Trihawk offers hunters unparalleled clarity, precision, and durability.
Swampfox Trihawk 3X Prism Scope Review Conclusion
As you can see from the features above, The Trihawk Prism Scope boasts a range of advanced features designed to elevate your hunting game. With its illuminated reticle and bullet drop compensation, the Trihawk ensures quick and accurate target acquisition, even in low-light conditions. Additionally, its exceptionally wide field of view provides hunters with unparalleled situational awareness, allowing for easier tracking of game.
Whether you’re stalking hogs in tight cover or scanning open wood lots for whitetails, the Swampfox Trihawk 3X Prism Scope delivers the clarity and precision you need to make every shot count. My hunting friends who see the Trihawk are equally impressed with the Trihawk. I am positive if you take a look through this new scope, you will want one too.
When it comes to choosing the perfect all-round optic for your MSR, it is hard to beat the Swampfox Trihawk 3X Prism Scope. With its advanced features, rugged durability, and unmatched image quality, the Trihawk is the ultimate companion for hunters seeking to elevate their shooting game. Invest in the Trihawk and experience the difference it can make in your hunting adventures.
Ideal for: Hunters and tactical shooters who prioritize lightweight maneuverability and clear image quality for diverse hunting conditions. Thanks for viewing the Swampfox Trihawk 3X Prism Scope Review – Clear Choice post.
I am an Amazon affiliate so if you purchase one of these scopes I may get a commission that does not increase the cost to you. I purchased my Trihawk at retail price and have. no affiliation with Swampfox Optics. Swampfox Trihawk 3X Prism Scope Review – Clear Choice is brought to you by The Old Deer Hunters.
SWAMPFOX TRIHAWK 3X30 Prism Scope, Red/Green Reticle, BDC/MOA
- Multiple reticle options: Choose from red/green illuminated BDC or MOA reticles to suit your preference and shooting style.
- Trihawk’s Shake-awake technology: Automatically activates the reticle when moved, extending battery life.
- Wide field of view: 52 ft wide field of view at 100 yards
- Bright Illumination: Bright red or green advanced reticle illumination technology w/3000 hour battery life.
- Durable and lightweight: Aircraft-grade aluminum construction keeps it tough, while the compact design maintains agility.
- Honeycomb anti-reflective device: Minimizes glare and reflections for a clear view in bright conditions.
- Flip-up lens caps included
- Red illumination or green illumination versions
- Ideal for: Hunters and tactical shooters who prioritize lightweight maneuverability and clear image for diverse lighting conditions.
- Trihawk’s glass features premium glass
- 3X magnification is the sweet spot for an MSR Optic
- Trihawk’s reticle features a chevron for better shot placement than a dot
Picatinny Rail Extension For Better Eve Relief
Monstrum Shrapnel Offset Picatinny Riser Mount with Recoil Stop Base | 8 Slot 3.5 inch for Better Eve Relief. Prism Scopes do not always provide proper eye relief on an AR. This Monstrum Picatinny extension set my scope back about one inch so now I have proper eye relief. I can now see the full field of view. Plus the rear of the rail is relieved so it is still easy to grab the charging handle. Great help from Monstrum Tactical.
Other SwampFox Prism Scopes
Blade Prism Scope (1X25) $205 at Amazon
Swampfox Saber 5X Prism Scope $389 at Amazon
Swampfox Raider Micro Prism Sight 1×20, IR BRC Reticle, Red $238 at Amazon
Blade 1X Prism Scope (1X25)
Blade Prism Scope (1X25) $205 at Amazon
Blade Prism Scope (1X25) for Speed and Precision with IR BRC Reticle.
Bullet Rise Compensating Reticle Compensates for Optic Height Over Bore. with Auto-On Shake N’ Wake Technology
The scope is similar in size to the Trihawk but offers 1X magnification. At close ranges, the bullet seems to “rise” from the muzzle to align with the aim point in the optic due to the scope’s mechanical offset or “height over bore.” The BRC reticle provides specific holds for 5, 10, and 15 yards to account for this effect. These holds are designed for when the scope is mounted at a certain height over the barrel.
There’s no need to manually turn the illumination on or off, thanks to Shake N’ Wake technology. This feature automatically turns off the illumination after 220-230 seconds of inactivity and instantly reactivates it with any movement, returning to the previous setting.
The 50/200-yard battle sight zero applies only to 5.56 NATO and .308 Win calibers. However, the shorter range holds work with any barrel length or caliber. At distances under 15 yards, different calibers like .22lr, 9mm, or 7.62×39 have almost identical points of impact.
This scope is an excellent choice for individuals with astigmatism who struggle with dot sights. This is one of the main reasons I prefer a prism scope over a red dot sight.
Pro’s & Con’s
Very Clear Image
Compact & Lightweight
Long Battery Life
Etched Reticle (no battery required)
Bullet Rise Compensating Reticle Compensates for Optic Height Over Bore
Fixed Power at 1X may not be enough magnification for some shooters
Swampfox Saber 5X Prism Scope (5X36)
Swampfox Saber 5X Prism Scope $389 at Amazon
The Sabor 5X has Red or Green Strike MOA Reticle. It also has 90° Sidecar mount for reflex sight for very close shots. fMotion Sensing Auto-On Shake N’ Wake Technology extends battery. You never have to switch it on or off to save battery.
This is also a great choice for hunters who want a little more magnification than the 3X Trihawk.
The 5x Saber prism scopes provide excellent optical clarity with a true 10-degree field of view from a 36 mm objective lens. Not as wide as the 3X Trihawk but wider than the average 5X scope.
The Saber features an etched Strike MOA reticle with red or green illumination, creating an illuminated ring that quickly draws your eye to the center for rapid target acquisition. It also includes a 42 MOA vertical hold ladder, and the etched reticle remains visible even if the battery fails.
Saber utilizes the proven Shake ‘N Wake system with a CR123a battery (1550 mAh), extending illumination life up to six times longer. The reticle illumination automatically shuts off after 225 seconds of inactivity and instantly reactivates with any motion.
The B1913 MIL-STD Picatinny base requires only 7 slots, eliminating the need for additional 90° or 45° offset mounts. The SABER comes with built-in dual (ambi) SIDECAR 90° Sentinel mounts, and a 30° roll enables a seamless transition from 5x magnification for mid-distance to 1x for close-quarters battle.
Pro’s & Con’s
Very Clear Image
Compact
Etched Reticle (no battery required)
Long Battery Life
Large Objective Lens
Fixed Power at 5X may be too much magnification for some shooters
Swampfox Raider Micro Prism Sight 1×20, IR BRC Reticle, Red
Swampfox Raider Micro Prism Sight 1×20, IR BRC Reticle, Red $238 at Amazon
Small compact 1X prism scope from Swampfox. Made to replace Red Dot sights for close-quarters shooting. Special bullet rise compensation is unique to the industry. Easier to see dots if you have astigmatism.
The Raider Micro Prism offers dual-color illumination, providing red and green options to adapt to different lighting conditions. The brightness settings are adjustable, allowing for optimal visibility. Enhanced by Shake ‘N Wake technology, the Raider conserves battery life by automatically shutting off the illumination after a period of inactivity and instantly reactivating it with any movement.
Built to withstand harsh environments, the Raider Micro Prism Sight is shockproof, fogproof, and waterproof, ensuring durability and reliability. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to mount on a variety of firearms without adding unnecessary bulk. Powered by a CR123a battery, the Raider ensures long-lasting performance, keeping the sight ready for use over extended periods.
The Swampfox Raider Micro Prism Sight 1×20 with IR BRC Reticle is an excellent choice for shooters seeking a durable, reliable, and versatile optic. Perfect for home defense, competition, or duty use, it delivers quick and accurate target acquisition in a sleek and compact design.
Pro’s & Con’s
Very Clear Image
Compact & Lightweight
Etched Reticle (no battery required)
Long Battery Life
Large Objective Lens
Great for Close Quarters Shooting
1X may be enough magnification for some shooters
Other Swampfox Products include Red Dot sights and LPVO scopes.
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