EOTech G43 Magnifier: How to Set Up a Dot and Magnifier Rifle

A 3x magnifier behind a red dot or holographic sight gives you a fast 1x sight for close work and a flip-in boost for identifying and hitting farther targets. The EOTech G43 is one of the most common magnifiers for that job. Setting it up well comes down to height, spacing and a few habits.

What the G43 Is

The G43 is a compact 3x magnifier. The STS version comes on a switch-to-side mount: you flip it out of the way for 1x shooting and back in when you want magnification. It doesn't have its own reticle; it magnifies the dot or holographic reticle in front of it.

Step 1: Match the Height

The magnifier's center must line up with your optic's window. If it sits too high or too low, you see a cut-off or distorted picture through it. The G43's mount is designed around EOTech holographic height. Pairing it with a different red dot often needs a riser or a mount built for that height. Our mount height guide explains absolute and lower-third co-witness, which is the usual reference.

Step 2: Set the Spacing

Mount the optic forward, then place the magnifier behind it at the distance that gives you a full sight picture with your natural cheek weld. Magnifiers have a narrow eye box, so small moves of your head cut the image quickly. Try it in your shooting position, not standing at a bench.

Step 3: Check the Flip Direction

Decide which side the magnifier flips to. Most right-handed shooters flip it to the left so it doesn't block the ejection port area or a charging handle. Make sure it clears the rest of your gear, like a light or a sling mount.

Step 4: Zero the Optic, Not the Magnifier

Zero your red dot or holographic sight as normal at 1x; see how to zero an optic. The magnifier doesn't change your point of impact if it's aligned. If the dot sits off-center through the magnifier, adjust the magnifier's own centering (not your optic's zero) until it's centered.

Dot + Magnifier vs LPVO

• Dot + magnifier wins for fast close work, both eyes open at 1x, and if you already own a good dot.
• An LPVO wins for a wider magnification range, a reticle with holdover marks, and fewer parts on the rail.

Our full comparison is LPVO vs red dot plus magnifier. For an LPVO option, see the TANGO-MSR 1-10x28 guide.

Astigmatism Bonus

Magnification can make a blurry or starburst dot look sharper, and holographic sights often look cleaner than LED dots to people with astigmatism. It's worth trying before you give up on dots; see our astigmatism solutions guide. Browse more at Ammunition Depot's optics section.

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