EOTech G33 Magnifier

How the G33 Works With Your EOTech HWS

The G33 is a straight 3x magnifier with no reticle of its own—it simply magnifies the image from whatever optic sits in front of it, including the EOTech’s 68 MOA ring and 1 MOA dot. When flipped into the shooting position behind an EXPS3, you see the holographic reticle at 3x magnification, providing enough precision for 300+ yard shots on an AR-15 with 5.56 ammunition. When flipped to the side, you’re back to true 1x for close-quarters use. The transition takes less than a second and requires no zeroing adjustment—the two units work as a single optical system.

G33 vs. G45: Which EOTech Magnifier Should You Choose?

EOTech produces two current magnifiers: the G33 (3x) and the G45 (5x). The G33 is the more popular choice for general-purpose AR-15 use, providing a useful magnification increase for targets at 200–400 yards without making the optic system so powerful that close-range shots become difficult. The G45 offers 5x magnification for shooters who primarily need precision at 400–600 yards and are willing to trade some close-range versatility for more reach. For most defensive, patrol, and 3-Gun applications, the G33 is the better-balanced choice. The G45 appeals to precision-oriented shooters and those who engage targets at longer distances regularly.

Is the G33 Compatible With Non-EOTech Optics?

The G33 works with most red dot sights and holographic sights that use a standard Picatinny mounting footprint, not just EOTech products. It is compatible with Aimpoint Micro and CompM series, Trijicon MRO, and many Holosun optics when used with the appropriate spacer or mount height. The key consideration is mount height—the G33 must be at the same optical axis height as the primary optic for proper magnification. EOTech produces specific mount kits for various height configurations. That said, the G33 is optimized for EOTech HWS use and the EXPS3 + G33 remains the most common and best-documented pairing. See also: EOTech EXPS3.

G33 for 3-Gun Competition

The EOTech EXPS3 paired with the G33 magnifier is one of the most common optic setups in 3-Gun Open and Tac Optics divisions. The combination delivers speed at close range (1x holographic) and precision at distance (3x magnified) in a single setup that transitions faster than a variable-power scope. For 3-Gun stages that mix steel at 200 yards with close-range movement, the EXPS3/G33 gives competitors a meaningful advantage. The G33’s STS (Switch-to-Side) mount design was specifically developed for the quick transitions that 3-Gun and military use require.

G33 Specifications

The EOTech G33 magnifies at 3x with a 4.4″ body length and a weight of 10.6 oz without mount. It is waterproof to 33 feet and rated for use in extreme temperatures. The STS mount included with most G33 configurations uses a standard 1″ Weaver or MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny interface. Eye relief is approximately 2.2″, allowing use with a standard cheek weld behind an EOTech HWS. See also: EOTech Optics and Rifle Scopes & Optics.