Hey there, fellow hunters! Joel Mccartan here, and today we’re diving deep into the world of 1-8x scopes – some of my absolute favorite optics for versatile, everyday hunting. As an avid hunter who’s spent countless hours in the field, I’ve come to appreciate just how game-changing a quality 1-8x scope can be. The wide magnification range lets you seamlessly transition from close-quarters brush hunting to longer range shots across open terrain. And let me tell you, having that flexibility has saved my bacon more times than I can count!
Before we dive into the top picks, let’s talk about why 1-8x scopes are such a great choice for everyday hunting. These scopes offer the best of both worlds – true 1x magnification (or very close to it) for quick target acquisition in close quarters, combined with enough zoom to make precise shots at extended ranges. They’re incredibly versatile, allowing you to engage targets from point-blank out to 500 yards or more, depending on your skill and the cartridge you’re using.
I’ve tested dozens of 1-8x scopes over the years, putting them through their paces in all sorts of hunting scenarios. From whitetail in dense forests to hogs in open fields, these scopes have seen it all. I’m excited to share my top 10 picks that offer the best performance for us everyday hunters. Whether you’re after deer, elk, hogs, coyotes, or anything in between, these scopes will help you put meat in the freezer.
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what makes these scopes stand out from the pack!
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 – Best Overall
Kicking off our list is the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24, my pick for the best all-around 1-8x scope. I’ve had one of these mounted on my go-to AR for a few years now, and it’s been an absolute workhorse in the field. The Strike Eagle offers an impressive combination of performance, durability, and value that’s hard to beat.
Let’s start with the glass quality. For the price point, the clarity on this scope is outstanding. Even in low light conditions at dusk and dawn, I’m able to clearly pick out deer in thick cover. The fully multi-coated lenses do an excellent job of light transmission, giving you a bright, clear image even as the sun is setting on your hunt.
The illuminated AR-BDC3 reticle is one of my favorite features. It’s intuitive and allows for quick target acquisition up close, while still providing useful holdover points for longer shots. The center dot is daylight bright, making it easy to get on target quickly in any lighting condition. And with 11 illumination settings, you can fine-tune the brightness to match your environment perfectly.
One thing I really appreciate about the Strike Eagle is how lightweight and compact it is. At just 17.6 oz and 10 inches long, it doesn’t weigh down my rifle or make it unwieldy in tight spaces. The eye relief is also very forgiving at 3.5 inches, which is great when shooting from awkward positions in a tree stand or ground blind.
Durability is always a concern when it comes to hunting optics, and the Strike Eagle doesn’t disappoint. The aircraft-grade aluminum construction is tough as nails, and the scope is both waterproof and fogproof. I’ve taken mine through some pretty nasty weather, and it’s never missed a beat.
Vortex’s lifetime warranty provides great peace of mind too. I actually had an issue with the illumination on my first Strike Eagle, and Vortex replaced it no questions asked. That kind of customer service goes a long way in my book.
The capped turrets are another nice touch for hunting applications. They protect your zero from accidental adjustments as you move through thick brush, but are still easy to adjust when needed. The tactile clicks are satisfying and make precise adjustments a breeze.
For the money, I really don’t think you can beat the Strike Eagle as an all-purpose hunting scope. It’s rugged, reliable, and performs well in a variety of situations. Whether you’re chasing whitetails in the woods or taking longer shots on prairie dogs, this scope has you covered.
Primary Arms SLx 1-8×24 FFP – Best First Focal Plane Option
If you prefer a first focal plane (FFP) reticle, the Primary Arms SLx 1-8×24 FFP is tough to beat. The ACSS reticle on this scope is incredibly versatile, working great for both close range shots and stretching things out to 500+ yards. I’ve used this scope extensively on my .308 hunting rifle, and it’s quickly become one of my favorites.
Let’s talk about that ACSS reticle for a moment. It’s a game-changer for hunters who like to stretch their ethical shooting range. The horseshoe and chevron design naturally draw your eye to the center for fast target acquisition at low magnification. But as you zoom in, you get precise holdover points out to 800 yards, wind holds, and even moving target leads. It’s like having a ballistic calculator built right into your scope.
The glass quality on the SLx is excellent, especially considering its price point. Primary Arms uses high-quality Japanese glass that provides a bright, clear sight picture even in low light. And the FFP design means your holdovers remain valid at any magnification – a huge plus when you need to make a quick shot and don’t have time to zoom all the way in.
One standout feature is the auto-ranging capability built into the reticle. I’ve found it surprisingly accurate for quickly estimating distances to deer-sized targets. It’s saved me precious seconds in the field when a shot opportunity presents itself. No need to fumble with a separate rangefinder in those crucial moments.
The durability has also impressed me. I’ve banged this scope around pretty good crawling through brush, and it’s held zero without issue. The 6061-aluminum construction is tough as nails, and the scope is fully waterproof and fogproof. The lifetime warranty from Primary Arms provides additional peace of mind as well.
Eye relief is generous at 3.7 inches, making it comfortable to use even on hard-recoiling rifles. The eye box is fairly forgiving, especially at lower magnifications. This is a huge plus in hunting situations where you might not always have time for a perfect cheek weld.
The illuminated reticle is another nice touch, with 6 brightness settings to choose from. It’s not quite as daylight bright as some higher-end options, but it’s more than adequate for low light hunting situations.
One minor drawback is the weight – at 16.9 oz, it’s not the lightest option out there. But the extra ounce or two is a small price to pay for the features and durability you’re getting.
For hunters who appreciate the benefits of FFP and want a do-it-all scope, the SLx 1-8×24 FFP is a fantastic choice. The optical performance and feature set punch well above its price point. Whether you’re taking close shots on whitetails or reaching out for long-range elk, this scope has you covered.
Trijicon VCOG 1-8×28 – Premium Option
Now, if budget isn’t a concern and you want the absolute best 1-8x scope money can buy, look no further than the Trijicon VCOG 1-8×28. This is military-grade glass that will handle anything you can throw at it, and then some.
I had the chance to use a VCOG during a guided hog hunt in Texas last year, and I was blown away by the optical quality. The clarity and low-light performance are on another level compared to most hunting scopes. Even well after sunset, I could clearly make out hogs at 200+ yards. The extra 4mm of objective lens diameter compared to most 1-8x scopes might not seem like much, but it makes a noticeable difference in light gathering ability.
The illuminated reticle is also incredibly bright, rivaling red dot sights for quick target acquisition at 1x. Yet it still provides precise aiming points out to 800 meters for those of us who like to stretch our ethical hunting ranges. The segmented circle reticle is intuitive and fast, while still offering the precision you need for longer shots.
Durability is where the VCOG really shines though. This thing is built like a tank. Our guide actually dropped his rifle out of a helicopter during the hunt (don’t ask), and the VCOG didn’t miss a beat. The 7075-T6 aircraft aluminum housing is virtually indestructible, and the scope is waterproof to 66 feet. If you need a scope that can truly handle any conditions Mother Nature can throw at you, this is it.
The glass quality is, simply put, stunning. Trijicon uses broadband anti-reflective coatings that provide amazing light transmission and color fidelity. The edge-to-edge clarity is the best I’ve ever seen in a variable power optic. There’s zero distortion, even at the edges of the field of view.
One unique feature of the VCOG is the integrated mounting system. It comes with a thumb screw mount that attaches directly to a picatinny rail. This eliminates the need for separate rings and ensures a rock-solid, repeatable zero. It’s a small touch, but one that showcases the attention to detail Trijicon puts into their optics.
The First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle is another big plus for hunters who like to stretch their range. Your holdovers remain valid at any magnification, making it easy to make quick shots without having to zoom all the way in. And with 11 brightness settings powered by a common AA battery, you’ll always be able to see your reticle, no matter the lighting conditions.
The downside? Well, that tank-like construction means it’s also quite heavy at over 31 oz. This isn’t a scope you’d want to lug up a mountain on a backcountry elk hunt. And of course, the price tag is eye-watering for most casual hunters. You could buy a very nice rifle for the cost of this scope alone.
But if you demand the absolute best and are willing to pay for it, the VCOG delivers unmatched performance. It’s overkill for many hunters, but an incredible optic nonetheless. For those who hunt in extreme conditions or simply want the peace of mind knowing they have the best of the best, the VCOG is hard to beat.
Burris RT-6 1-6×24 – Best Budget Option
On the opposite end of the spectrum, we have the Burris RT-6 1-6×24. While not a true 1-8x, I had to include it as an honorable mention due to the incredible value it offers. For hunters on a tight budget, this scope delivers 90% of the performance of pricier options at a fraction of the cost.
The glass quality is surprisingly good for the price point. Burris uses high-grade optical glass with index-matched Hi-Lume® multicoatings. The result is a bright, clear image with excellent color fidelity. While it might not quite match the clarity of top-tier scopes, it’s more than adequate for ethical hunting shots out to 300 yards or more.
The illuminated Ballistic AR reticle works well for both close-range and moderately long shots. It features an illuminated center dot surrounded by a circle for fast target acquisition at low magnification. As you zoom in, you get holdover points out to 600 yards. The reticle is in the second focal plane, which means it stays the same size as you change magnification. This can be an advantage for hunters who prefer a clean, uncluttered sight picture at high magnification.
I actually keep one of these as a backup scope, and it’s saved a couple hunting trips when I’ve had issues with other optics. While not as rugged as some pricier scopes, it’s still held up well to normal field use. The single-piece tube is made from high-strength aluminum alloy, and the scope is both waterproof and fogproof.
The capped turrets are a nice touch for a hunting scope in this price range. They protect your zero from accidental adjustments in the field. When you do need to make adjustments, the clicks are tactile and audible.
Eye relief is generous at 3.3-4 inches, making it comfortable to use even on hard-recoiling rifles. The true 1x setting at the low end is great for both-eyes-open shooting in close quarters.
The tradeoff for the low price is that you only get 6x max magnification instead of 8x. But for most hunting situations inside 300 yards, that’s more than adequate. The compact size (just 11.6 inches long) and light weight (17.4 oz) are also nice bonuses for hunters who prefer a nimble setup.
Burris backs the RT-6 with their forever warranty, which provides great peace of mind. If anything ever goes wrong with the scope, they’ll repair or replace it, no questions asked.
If you’re just getting into hunting and want a solid scope without breaking the bank, the RT-6 is hard to beat. It’ll get the job done until you’re ready to upgrade to a higher-end optic down the road. For the vast majority of hunting situations, this scope will serve you well and leave you with more money in your pocket for other gear (or more hunting trips!).
Leupold VX-6HD 1-6×24 – Best Lightweight Option
For mobile hunters who count every ounce, the Leupold VX-6HD 1-6×24 is worth a close look. At just 13.3 oz, it’s one of the lightest scopes in its class. This is a scope that truly embodies Leupold’s reputation for top-tier optical quality in a compact package.
Don’t let the lightweight fool you though – this is still a premium piece of glass. The optical clarity is outstanding, rivaling scopes costing twice as much. Leupold uses their proprietary Twilight Max HD Light Management System, which delivers excellent edge-to-edge clarity and superior low-light performance. I’ve used this scope extensively on my mountain hunting rig, where every ounce matters on long backcountry treks. The ability to clearly pick out animals in the dim light of dawn and dusk has been a game-changer.
The FireDot illuminated reticle is another standout feature. It uses fiber optics to illuminate the center dot, providing a bright, crisp aiming point even in challenging light. The illumination is motion-activated, which helps conserve battery life in the field. I’ve found the crisp dot easy to pick up quickly, even when scanning for game in thick cover.
Durability is always a concern with lightweight optics, but Leupold doesn’t disappoint. The VX-6HD is built from 6061-T6 aircraft aluminum and is thoroughly tested to withstand the harshest conditions. It’s waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. I’ve put mine through some pretty rough handling on mountain hunts, and it’s held zero flawlessly.
The magnification range of 1-6x might seem limited compared to 1-8x scopes, but in practice, it covers the vast majority of hunting scenarios. The true 1x setting is excellent for close-range work in thick cover, while 6x provides more than enough magnification for ethical shots out to 300 yards and beyond, depending on your skill and the cartridge you’re using.
One of my favorite features is the CDS-ZL2 elevation dial. This allows you to quickly dial for different distances without losing your zero. You can even get custom dials made for your specific load, making long-range shots much more straightforward.
Eye relief is generous at 3.7-4.2 inches, and the eye box is forgiving, especially at lower magnifications. This is a huge plus when shooting from awkward positions or in high-stress situations.
The only real downside to the VX-6HD is the price – this is definitely a premium optic with a price tag to match. But for hunters who demand top-tier optical quality in an ultralight package, it’s worth every penny.
If you’re a mobile hunter who demands top-tier glass without the weight penalty, the VX-6HD should be high on your list. Your back will thank you after long days in the mountains! Whether you’re chasing sheep in Alaska or whitetails in the Midwest, this scope will serve you well.
Steiner T5Xi 1-5×24 – Most Durable
When it comes to bombproof durability, it’s hard to top Steiner optics. The T5Xi 1-5×24 is built like a tank and designed to handle the harshest conditions you can throw at it. While it’s not a true 1-8x, its exceptional ruggedness and optical quality earn it a spot on this list.
I’ve had one of these on my hog hunting AR for a couple years now, and it’s taken an absolute beating. I’m talking drops onto rocks, submerged in muddy swamps, the works. And it just keeps on ticking without losing zero. Steiner’s reputation for military-grade durability is well-deserved with this scope.
The optical quality is excellent as well, with crisp edge-to-edge clarity and minimal distortion. Steiner uses high-quality German glass with their proprietary CAT (Color Adjusted Transmission) lens coatings. These coatings enhance image contrast and provide true
color fidelity, which is especially useful when trying to pick out game in dense foliage. Even in the challenging low-light conditions often encountered during prime hunting hours, the T5Xi delivers a bright, clear sight picture.
The illuminated reticle is another standout feature. It’s daylight bright, making it easy to get on target quickly in any lighting conditions. The center dot is surrounded by a circle for rapid target acquisition at low magnifications, while still providing precise aiming points for longer shots. With 11 illumination settings, you can fine-tune the brightness to match your environment perfectly.
One thing I really appreciate about the T5Xi is the throw lever on the magnification ring. It makes it incredibly fast and easy to zoom in and out as needed – a crucial feature when a hunting situation changes rapidly. The lever is low-profile enough that it doesn’t snag on gear but substantial enough to grip easily even with gloves on.
The turrets on the T5Xi are another high point. They offer positive, tactile clicks that you can feel even with gloves on. The zero stop feature is a nice touch, allowing you to quickly return to your zero after dialing for long shots. The turrets are low-profile and capped, protecting them from accidental adjustments in the field.
Like some others on this list, you do give up some magnification compared to true 1-8x scopes. But for most hunting applications inside 300 yards, 5x is more than adequate. The true 1x at the low end is excellent for close-range work, rivaling red dot sights for speed.
Eye relief is generous at 3.5-4.3 inches, making it comfortable to use even on hard-recoiling rifles. The eye box is fairly forgiving, especially at lower magnifications, which is a big plus in hunting situations where you might not always have time for a perfect cheek weld.
At 18.2 ounces, it’s not the lightest scope on our list, but that weight translates to incredible durability. The 34mm main tube is machined from a single piece of aluminum, providing superior strength and waterproofing. Steiner also uses specially hardened steel in the zoom mechanism to ensure long-term reliability.
If you’re particularly hard on your gear and need a scope that can handle serious abuse, the T5Xi is worth a hard look. Just be prepared for the hefty price tag that comes with that German engineering and build quality. For hunters who venture into extreme environments or simply want the peace of mind knowing their scope can handle anything, the Steiner T5Xi 1-5×24 is an excellent choice.
Athlon Optics Ares BTR Gen2 1-8×24 – Best Value
For hunters looking to maximize bang for their buck, it’s hard to beat the Athlon Optics Ares BTR Gen2 1-8×24. This scope delivers features and performance that rival options costing hundreds more, making it an excellent value proposition for the budget-conscious hunter.
The glass quality is impressive for the price point, providing a bright and clear sight picture even in challenging light. Athlon uses fully multi-coated lenses with their XPL coating, which not only improves light transmission but also protects the lenses from dirt, oil, and scratches. During testing, I was consistently impressed with the edge-to-edge clarity and minimal distortion, even at max magnification.
The APMR FFP IR MOA reticle is a standout feature. Being in the first focal plane (FFP), the reticle size changes as you adjust magnification, meaning your holdover and ranging references remain valid at any power setting. This is a huge advantage for hunters who might need to take a quick shot without time to dial up to max magnification. The illuminated center dot is great for low-light situations and quick target acquisition.
I’ve run this scope through its paces on my .308 AR-10, and it’s held up admirably to recoil and field use. The one-piece 6061-T6 aluminum tube is built to take a beating, and the scope is both waterproof and fogproof. While not quite as bomb-proof as some pricier options, it’s more than durable enough for most hunting applications. Athlon backs it up with a lifetime warranty, which provides great peace of mind.
One standout feature is the zero stop on the elevation turret – something rarely seen at this price point. It makes it easy to quickly return to your 100 yard zero after dialing for longer shots. The turrets provide positive, tactile clicks, and I’ve found them to track consistently during testing.
Eye relief is generous at 3.5 inches across the entire magnification range, which is a nice touch. The eye box is reasonably forgiving, especially at lower magnifications. This makes it easier to get behind the scope quickly in hunting situations.
The true 1x at the low end is excellent for close-range work. While not quite as good as a dedicated red dot, it’s more than adequate for quick shots in thick cover. At 8x, you have plenty of magnification for precise shot placement at extended ranges.
At 20.8 ounces, it’s not the lightest scope on our list, but the weight is reasonable considering the features and durability you’re getting. The overall length of 10.3 inches keeps things compact enough for most hunting rifles.
If you want high-end features and solid performance without breaking the bank, the Ares BTR Gen2 delivers in spades. It’s a great choice for hunters looking to stretch their budget as far as possible. Whether you’re chasing whitetails in the woods or taking longer shots on predators, this scope has you covered. The combination of FFP reticle, zero stop, and quality glass at this price point is hard to beat.
Nightforce NX8 1-8×24 F1 – Best High-End FFP Option
For serious long range hunters who demand the absolute best in first focal plane performance, the Nightforce NX8 1-8×24 F1 is tough to beat. This scope represents the pinnacle of optical and mechanical precision, delivering stunning performance in a surprisingly compact package.
The optical quality on this scope is simply stunning. Edge-to-edge clarity is tack sharp, and low light performance is outstanding. Nightforce uses extra-low dispersion glass and fully multi-coated lenses to maximize light transmission and color fidelity. The result is a bright, clear image even in the challenging lighting conditions often encountered during prime hunting hours.
I had the chance to use one of these on an elk hunt in Colorado last fall, and it was a game changer. Being able to rapidly transition from close brush shots to long ridge-to-ridge shots was incredible. The true 1x at the low end is as close to a red dot as I’ve seen in a magnified optic, allowing for lightning-fast target acquisition in close quarters. Yet at 8x, I could easily pick out and range elk at distances over 800 yards.
The FC-MOA reticle is a versatile option that provides precise aiming points out to 800 yards and beyond. Being in the first focal plane, your holdovers remain valid at any magnification – a huge plus when you need to take a quick shot without time to zoom all the way in. The illuminated center portion of the reticle is daylight-bright, making it easy to pick up even against dark backgrounds.
Durability is top-notch, as you’d expect from Nightforce. The 30mm main tube is machined from a solid bar of aluminum alloy, providing superior strength and waterproofing. The scope is nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed, making it completely waterproof and fogproof. Even in harsh mountain conditions with rapid temperature changes, I never experienced any internal fogging.
The turrets on the NX8 are a joy to use. They provide positive, tactile clicks that you can feel even with gloves on. The ZeroStop feature allows you to quickly return to your zero after dialing for long shots. I also appreciate the low-profile design of the turrets – they’re easy to manipulate when needed but don’t snag on gear when moving through brush.
One of the most impressive features of the NX8 is how Nightforce has packed all this performance into such a compact package. At just 8.75 inches long and 17 ounces, it’s one of the shortest and lightest scopes in its class. This is a huge advantage for hunters who need to keep their rifle nimble and lightweight.
Eye relief is generous at 3.75 inches, making it comfortable to use even on hard-recoiling rifles. The eye box is fairly forgiving, especially at lower magnifications, which is a big plus in hunting situations where you might not always have time for a perfect cheek weld.
The power throw lever (PTL) is another nice touch. It makes it incredibly fast and easy to zoom in and out as needed – a crucial feature when a hunting situation changes rapidly. The lever is low-profile enough that it doesn’t snag on gear but substantial enough to grip easily even with gloves on.
The downside? Well, Nightforce quality doesn’t come cheap. This is one of the priciest options on our list. But for hunters who demand the absolute best in long range performance and are willing to pay for it, the NX8 delivers in spades. It’s a serious piece of glass for serious hunters.
Whether you’re taking close shots on whitetails or stretching the limits of your ethical hunting range on distant elk, the Nightforce NX8 1-8×24 F1 has you covered. Its combination of optical clarity, mechanical precision, and compact design make it a top choice for discerning hunters who demand the very best.
Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10×24 – Most Versatile
I know, I know – this is supposed to be a list of 1-8x scopes. But I had to include the Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10×24 as an honorable mention due to its incredible versatility. This scope essentially combines the best features of a red dot, 1-8x scope, and long range optic into one package, making it an incredibly versatile option for hunters who face a wide variety of shooting scenarios.
The optical quality is absolutely top notch, rivaling scopes costing thousands more. Vortex uses premium HD glass with their XR Plus fully multi-coated lenses to deliver exceptional light transmission and color fidelity. The edge-to-edge clarity is stunning, with virtually no distortion even at max magnification. During testing, I was consistently impressed with the scope’s ability to resolve fine details at long distances, even in challenging lighting conditions.
I’ve used this scope for everything from close quarters hog hunting to long range steel challenge matches. The ability to seamlessly transition from 1x to 10x is game changing. At 1x, the performance is virtually indistinguishable from a red dot sight, allowing for lightning-fast target acquisition in close quarters. Yet at 10x, you have more than enough magnification for precise shot placement at extended ranges.
The EBR-9 MRAD reticle is a versatile option that provides precise holdovers for shooting well beyond 500 yards. Being in the first focal plane, your holdovers remain valid at any magnification – a huge plus when you need to take a quick shot without time to zoom all the way in. The illuminated center portion of the reticle is daylight-bright, making it easy to pick up even against dark backgrounds.
Durability is top-notch, as you’d expect from Vortex’s flagship line. The 34mm main tube is machined from a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum, providing superior strength and waterproofing. The scope is argon-purged and O-ring sealed, making it completely waterproof and fogproof. I’ve used this scope in some pretty nasty weather conditions, and it’s never missed a beat.
The turrets on the Razor HD Gen III are a joy to use. They provide positive, tactile clicks that you can feel even with gloves on. The L-Tec Zero Stop system allows you to quickly return to your zero after dialing for long shots. The turrets are low-profile and can be locked, protecting them from accidental adjustments in the field.
One of the most impressive features of the Razor HD Gen III is the optical performance at 1x. The true 1x setting combined with the daylight bright illumination makes this scope as fast as any red dot for close-range work. Yet you have the ability to crank it up to 10x for those long-range shots. It’s truly a do-it-all optic.
The included throw lever is another nice touch. It makes it incredibly fast and easy to zoom in and out as needed – a crucial feature when a hunting situation changes rapidly. The lever is low-profile enough that it doesn’t snag on gear but substantial enough to grip easily even with gloves on.
The downside? Well, you’ll certainly pay for that versatility and optical quality. This is one of the priciest options on our list. It’s also fairly hefty at 21.5 oz, which might be a concern for hunters who count every ounce.
But for hunters who want one scope that can truly do it all, from close quarters to long range, the Razor HD Gen III is hard to beat. It’s become my go-to optic for multi-day hunts where I might encounter a variety of scenarios. Whether you’re taking close shots on whitetails, medium-range shots on mule deer, or stretching out for long-range elk, this scope has you covered.
EOTech Vudu 1-8×24 – Best Second Focal Plane Option
Rounding out our list is the EOTech Vudu 1-8×24, my pick for the best second focal plane 1-8x scope. EOTech is known for their holographic sights, and that expertise shows in the Vudu’s excellent close range performance.
The glass quality is excellent, providing a bright and clear sight picture across the entire magnification range. EOTech uses high-quality, extra-low dispersion (XD) glass with their proprietary lens coatings to maximize light transmission and color fidelity. The result is a crisp, high-contrast image that makes it easy to pick out game even in challenging lighting conditions.
I’ve used this scope extensively on my .300 Blackout hunting rig, and it’s been a joy to shoot. The true 1x performance rivals red dot sights for quick target acquisition, while still providing enough magnification for precise shots out to 500 yards and beyond.
The SR3 reticle is intuitive and easy to use, with an illuminated center dot that’s daylight bright. At 1x, it functions essentially like a red dot sight, allowing for rapid target acquisition in close quarters. As you zoom in, additional holdover points become visible, providing references out to 600 yards. Being in the second focal plane, the reticle stays the same size as you change magnification, which some hunters prefer for its clean, uncluttered appearance at high magnifications.
One standout feature is the throw lever on the magnification ring. It makes it incredibly fast and easy to zoom in and out as needed. The lever is low-profile enough that it doesn’t snag on gear but substantial enough to grip easily even with gloves on. This is a crucial feature when a hunting situation changes rapidly and you need to quickly transition from close to long range.
The capped turrets also provide peace of mind when moving through thick brush. When you do need to make adjustments, the clicks are positive and tactile. The zero reset feature allows you to quickly return to your zero after dialing for long shots.
Durability is excellent, as you’d expect from EOTech. The 30mm main tube is machined from a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum, providing superior strength and waterproofing. The scope is nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed, making it completely waterproof and fogproof. I’ve used this scope in some pretty nasty weather conditions, and it’s never missed a beat.
Eye relief is generous at 3.9 inches across the entire magnification range, making it comfortable to use even on hard-recoiling rifles. The eye box is fairly forgiving, especially at lower magnifications, which is a big plus in hunting situations where you might not always have time for a perfect cheek weld.
At 21.3 ounces, it’s not the lightest scope on our list, but the weight is reasonable considering the features and durability you’re getting. The overall length of 10.6 inches keeps things compact enough for most hunting rifles.
The illumination controls are well-designed, with 10 brightness settings to choose from. The push-button controls are easy to use even with gloves on, and the auto-off feature helps conserve battery life in the field.
For hunters who prefer second focal plane reticles and want a do-it-all scope, the Vudu 1-8×24 is an excellent choice. The optical quality and features justify the premium price tag. Whether you’re taking close shots on whitetails or reaching out for longer shots on predators, this scope has you covered.
Conclusion
Well folks, there you have it – my top 10 picks for the best 1-8x scopes for everyday hunting. We’ve covered a wide range of options, from budget-friendly choices to high-end premium glass. Whether you’re a casual weekend warrior or a serious backcountry hunter, there’s a scope on this list to fit your needs and budget.
Remember, the best scope is the one that works for your specific hunting style and budget. Don’t get caught up in the hype of the latest and greatest if it doesn’t fit your needs. Consider factors like the type of hunting you do most often, the typical ranges you shoot at, and the environments you hunt in when making your choice.
If you’re on a tight budget, the Burris RT-6 offers incredible value and will serve you well in most hunting situations. For those who demand the absolute best regardless of cost, the Trijicon VCOG or Nightforce NX8 are hard to beat. And for hunters who want a versatile do-it-all option, the Vortex Razor HD Gen III is tough to top.
My personal favorite? I still find myself reaching for the Vortex Strike Eagle more often than not. It just hits that sweet spot of performance, durability, and value that works for most of my hunting. The clear glass, intuitive reticle, and rock-solid reliability have served me well on countless hunts.
When choosing your scope, don’t forget to consider factors beyond just the optic itself. Make sure you budget for quality rings or a mount – even the best scope won’t perform well if it’s not properly secured to your rifle. And take the time to properly zero your scope and practice with it before heading out on a hunt. Familiarity with your optic is crucial when it comes time to make that all-important shot.
It’s also worth mentioning that while 1-8x scopes are incredibly versatile, they’re not the best choice for every hunting situation. If you primarily hunt in thick brush where most of your shots are under 100 yards, a red dot sight or 1-4x scope might be a better option. Conversely, if you’re regularly taking shots beyond 500 yards, you might want to consider a scope with higher magnification.
One trend I’ve noticed in recent years is the increasing popularity of first focal plane (FFP) reticles in hunting scopes. While traditionally more common in long-range precision rifles, FFP reticles are becoming more prevalent in variable power scopes like 1-8x. The advantage of FFP is that your holdovers remain valid at any magnification. However, this comes at the cost of a more cluttered sight picture at low magnifications and often a higher price tag. Consider your hunting style and preferences when deciding between FFP and second focal plane (SFP) options.
Another factor to consider is illumination. While all the scopes on this list offer some form of illuminated reticle, the quality and usability can vary significantly. Some, like the Trijicon VCOG, offer daylight-bright illumination that rivals red dot sights. Others may only be visible in low light conditions. Think about when and where you’ll be hunting most often when evaluating illumination features.
It’s also worth noting that the world of optics is constantly evolving. New technologies and innovations are continually pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in a hunting scope. Keep an eye out for emerging trends like integrated rangefinders, bluetooth connectivity, and even digital displays. While these features may seem gimmicky now, they could become game-changers in the future.
Lastly, I want to stress the importance of proper care and maintenance for your scope. Even the most rugged and waterproof optics can be damaged by neglect. Always use lens caps when not in use, clean your lenses with proper optical cleaning solutions, and store your scope in a cool, dry place. A little bit of care can go a long way in ensuring your scope provides years of reliable service.
As we wrap up, I want to encourage all of you to get out there and practice with your chosen optic. The best scope in the world won’t make you a better shooter if you don’t put in the time at the range. Familiarize yourself with your reticle, practice ranging targets, and work on quick target acquisition at various distances. The more comfortable you are with your scope, the more successful you’ll be in the field.
Remember, hunting is about more than just the gear. It’s about connecting with nature, challenging yourself, and providing sustainable, ethical meat for your family. A good scope is just a tool to help you achieve these goals more effectively.
I’d love to hear from you! What’s your go-to 1-8x scope? Any hidden gems I missed? Do you have any exciting hunts planned where you’ll be putting your optic to the test? Drop a comment below and let’s keep the conversation going. Sharing our experiences and knowledge is what makes the hunting community so great.
Until next time, happy hunting and stay safe out there! Remember to always prioritize ethical shots and conservation in all your hunting endeavors. Here’s to many successful hunts and full freezers in your future!