If you are looking for the best riflescope for short to medium range hunting or shooting in 300 to 500 yards range, you might need a scope with 1-8x variable magnification. To get the ranging performance of 1-4x and 3-9x scopes from one unit, surely 1-8x scopes are the best replacement.
With the Best 1-8x scopes, you can workout shots for most shooting disciplines. As an AR-15 shooter, you will need a medium-size ballistic package for ranging. 1-8x scopes are the best platform size for this firearm with functional rounds.
The best 1-8x scopes also suit various firearms for close to medium range hunting. But it won’t work for super short distances. The range is right around the normal distances where most of the hunters shoot.
We have tested 10 Best 1-8x Scopes for hunting that acquire targets well.
The Best 1-8x Scopes of 2022
| Product | Name | Reticle | Eye Relief | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Trijicon Credo HX | MOA Segmented Circle | 3-4 in | Check Price |
 | TRUGLO Omnia | All Purpose Tactical Reticle | 3.5 in | Check Price |
 | Vortex Strike Eagle | AR-BDC3 | 3.5 in | Check Price |
 | Bushnell AR Optics | Illuminated BTR-1 | 3.6 in | Check Price |
 | EOTech Vudu | MOA | 3.5 in | Check Price |
 | Leapers UTG MRC | Mil-dot | 3.35 in | Check Price |
 | Riton Optics X3 | OT | 3.5 in | Check Price |
 | Athlon Optics Argos | ATSR5 SFP IR MOA | 3.4 in | Check Price |
 | Primary Arms SLX | ACSS 5.56/5.45/.308 | 3.3-3.5 in | Check Price |
 | Visionking Optics | Mil-dot | 4.3-3.5 in | Check Price |
10 Best 1-8x Scopes Reviewed
1. Trijicon Credo HX Illuminated Hunting Riflescope
Trijicon Credo HX Illuminated Hunting Riflescope is also one of the most ideal hunting scopes that are designed to be a great companion to rifles out there.
If you are looking for a scope that would not make you doubt its quality, this specific scope model is designed to withstand long periods of rugged use and it is also tested to pass military standards, so you would not have to double think about getting this scope.
High-quality Optics: This scope is designed with a lot of features that contribute to having a very high quality of optics. This scope has fully multi-coated lenses that ensure maximum possible transmissions of light. It is the best scope for 300 yards.
This illuminated reticle scope is also designed with an anti-reflective glass that ensures true detail of the surroundings you are viewing through your scope.
Together, these two features are what mostly makes this scope have very great quality when talking about optics. Also, these two features provide zero distortion and clarity that you can enjoy from edge to edge.
The design of this scope has adjustable LED settings too—it can easily adapt to any environment that you are going to conduct your shooting activities in.
Quick and Easy Adjustments: This scope would not cause any trouble when you are needing to adjust some settings regarding windage and elevation.
This scope does not require any tool for that. Of course, the last thing you would not want to happen while shooting in the field is being distracted by having to adjust.
All you should think of when you are in the field is being focused on your targets. You need not worry about that because this scope comes with quick and easy adjustments that will surely give you the concentration you need.
2. TRUGLO Omnia Tactical Riflescope
TRUGLO Omnia Tactical Riflescope is one of the most incredible riflescopes when it comes to both military purposes and tactical applications.
This scope is preferred by a lot of hunters and shooters because of its reliability and durability when used. Also, this scope is not as expensive as the other scopes mentioned but it does not mean that you will experience less.
This scope has the same quality and can offer you a lot of cool features that you would expect from the best 3x9x50 scopes.
Ideal Mounting Position: This scope is designed and built to include an Aptus-M1 mount—this mount is the one that is responsible for giving it a stronghold and the perfect mounting position when used with modern rifles nowadays.
Not just that, while it provides an ideal and perfect mounting position, this feature also adds up to the style of the scope—if anything, it makes this scope look more appealing and cooler.
Versatile Reticle Type: This scope is designed and built to have an all-purpose tactical reticle that improves its function as an amazing scope. To be specific, it will give you increased accuracy and precision even when you are using hard-kicking calibers and rifles that have high recoil.
Also, this scope is designed to have a swift zoom lever that will give you the luxury of changing the magnification settings as easily as possible.
This feature, when partnered with this scope’s multi-coated lenses, you would experience enhanced contrast and clarity of images that you have never seen before.
Durability and Reliability: This scope is engineered to have a hard-coated anodized matte finish that gives this scope a very cool exterior when compared to the usual ones.
Appearance aside, this scope has been designed to withstand even the toughest and harshest conditions due to the built it has. Also, this scope performs well by being fog-proof due to it being nitrogen-filled.
3. Vortex Optics Strike Eagle Riflescope
Vortex Optics Strike Eagle Riflescope is one of the most affordable rifle scopes under $500 that you can get when you are looking for a scope that has a magnification setting that ranges from 1X to 8X.
There are some misconceptions about this scope saying that this scope can only have a magnification setting of 1X to 6X, that is not true—it can extend up to 8X.
Reliability: This scope is made durable and reliable due to its being nitrogen-purged and an O-ring-sealed. With these features, this scope has been designed to be waterproof and fog-proof too, so you would not have any problem with its durability.
Also, this scope is built to have an aircraft-grade aluminum casing that makes it shock-proof. I mean, what more can you ask for? This one is the epitome of being reliable and durable at the same time.
High-Quality Optics: This scope is built to have a fast focus dial that will allow you to do have easy and very quick reticle focusing. This scope is also built to have anti-reflective glasses that will make you enjoy the luxury of seeing extremely clear images.
Its lenses are also known to give the user the maximum possible light transmission based on the conditions. With these optics, you will be able to use this scope even when you are in a low-light condition.
4. Bushnell AR Optics III BTR-2 Riflescope
Bushnell AR Optics III BTR-2 Riflescope is another riflescope that has a magnification setting that ranges from 1X to 8X. This specific scope model is also one of the most ideal options that shooters and hunters can get when they want to buy a scope from a trusted brand.
If you are one of those people who do not want to risk by getting a scope from a new brand, then this one is for you. Surely, you would not regret getting this one.
Fully Multi-coated Optics: This scope is a reliable scope even when you are shooting in different conditions—may it be during bright conditions or during low-light conditions.
You can rely on this scope to perform consistently no matter the situation is and that is because of its fully multi-coated optics that will surely provide bright, clear, and crisp images all the time.
BDC Reticle: This scope has the feature of having a BDC type of reticle that is best when doing holdover measurements. Also, its reticle has six different settings that you can choose from when you want to adjust it.
Also, this reticle type is expedient for some elevation holds that are precise and also for some specific ammunition. Its type of reticle is also illuminated in order to provide you with clear images even when in low-light situations.
Durability, Reliability, and Aesthetics: This scope is also designed with an aluminum casing tube that is perfect for rugged use and for the toughest and harshest conditions that you may encounter in the field.
Also, this scope is designed to be nitrogen-purged; thus, making it waterproof and fog-proof. Truly a reliable scope and also, it is designed to have an exterior that is described to be of eye-catching aesthetics.
5. EOTech Vudu Precision Riflescope
EOTech Vudu Precision Riflescope is one of the scopes that does not need an introduction because the brand that manufactured it—the EOTech—is one of the most famous brands that has established a truly solid reputation of manufacturing high-quality scopes that are durable built and reliable performance.
Well, EOTech’s Vudu Precision Riflescope lives up to that reputation. This specific scope model is built to be of extreme use for people who want to have an improved shooting experience.
XCHigh-Density Glass: These types of materials are used to design this scope—well, if anything, it helps a lot of shooters and hunters because this feature is the reason behind producing impressive and maximum light transmission.
This feature also causes the scope to have optics that are extremely clear. Also, it is built with anti-reflective lenses that will surely enhance its optics more.
Magnification Ring: Of course, we are not going to talk about this scope’s advantage in magnification since every single scope on this list has a magnification that ranges from 1X to 8X. But this scope has a magnification ring that makes it an interesting scope to consider.
This magnification ring will give you the ability to switch from a magnification setting to another magnification setting without exerting a lot of effort. You will experience easy and fluid transitions.
Extreme Durability: This scope is designed and built to have an aircraft-grade aluminum casing—this type of material is one of the most famous materials that are used to construct the best and most durable scopes out there.
This specific scope is designed to withstand rugged use, especially when used by those people who consider themselves serious hunters.
Read Also: Best EOTech Clones and Alternatives.
6. Leapers Inc. UTG MRC Scope
Leapers Inc. UTG MRC Scope is another scope model that is preferred by many hunters and shooters. This 1-8x scope is distinctively designed to have an elevation knob that is specifically designed to have mend the negative effects of the Earth’s gravity on the rifle’s bullets especially when shot at a considerable length or distance.
When you purchase this scope, the package includes all the mounting accessories that you are going to need such as ring mounts.
Emerald-coated Lenses: This scope is designed to have high-quality optics that will surely make you see through it. Not just the usual views, but you will be able to enjoy seeing clear and bright images with the help of its emerald-coated lenses and etched glass type of reticle.
Also, it has the feature of having a multi-color mode in order for you to be able to use it during almost every weather condition that you can think of.
Rangefinder Markings: This feature will help you shoot even for the longest ranges you want your targets to be placed at.
With the help of this scope’s ballistic drop compensation, you will be able to shoot the target at a distance of up to 600 yards—this distance is pretty long and only the most reliable scopes can reach a distance this far.
Durability and Reliability: This scope is made of aluminum casing that is designed to be shock-proof and recoil-resistant—this casing is one of the reasons why this scope is considered one of the most durable.
Also, this scope is nitrogen-filled, and it is completely sealed too. With those, this scope is made reliable by being fog-proof, waterproof, and dustproof.
7. Riton Optics X3 Tactix
Riton Optics X3 Tactix is one of the most underrated scopes that you may find at the markets these days. This scope came from a brand that is not yet well-known but to tell you honestly, hunters and shooters are missing out a lot because they have not discovered this brand yet.
The Riton Optics is a brand that is veteran-owned and has a goal of manufacturing high quality and impressive optics at a very low price. Come and check out its amazing features for you to be convinced that this one is truly worthy to be on this list.
Durability and Reliability: Just like most of the scopes mentioned above, this, too, is made from an aircraft-grade aluminum casing that is ruggedly designed in order to withstand or endure all conditions in the field—including the harshest and the toughest ones.
Also, it is not just durable, it is also designed to be reliable in the field. You may be wondering how, but it is 100% waterproof, fog-proof, and even shock-proof. It is proven and tested to withstand accidental drops and even when accidentally submerged in water.
Lifetime Warranty: One of the most amazing things that buyers want is a warranty. Well, if you are one of those buyers who want to be sure that your money would not go to waste once you purchase something, then this scope is the perfect one for you.
With its warranty that lasts a lifetime, you would be able to ask the company that manufactured this certain scope to repair or replace it when you find some damage or defects on it.
8. Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN 2 Riflescope
Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN 2 Riflescope is another scope that you can get especially when you are shooting with .223 and 5.56 ammo. With a lot of unique reticles out there, it will be hard to find the perfect fit for you.
But with this one, is specifically designed for the two types of ammo that are mentioned above. So, if you are one of those hunters or shooters who use that ammo, then this one is the perfect choice for you.
Also, this scope is made perfect for the purpose of hunting. But worry not, you can also use this for other purposes.
Fully Multi-coated Lenses: This scope is designed and built to provide high-quality optics that you will surely enjoy. This scope’s lenses are very effective in that it not just transmits the maximum light possible, it also reduces the possible reflected light in order to give you the bright image or view that you desire.
This type of optics cannot be found in normal coated lenses, so this one is truly a good find. Also, this scope has reticle etched on its glass—this feature is for this scope’s greater durability. In addition, this feature will give you a much higher resistance to both shock and recoil.
Versatile Illuminated Type of Reticle: The reticle of this scope is what makes it more versatile especially during different lighting conditions. You can rely on this scope during nighttime as much as you can rely on it during daytime.
You would not have a problem with it being less functional at night since it can still perform well. With its feature of having an illuminated reticle, this scope can also be reliable during cloudy situations and other low-light conditions.
9. Primary Arms SLX SFP Riflescope
Primary Arms SLX SFP Riflescope in another scope that will amaze you with its affordable price but very remarkable built and construction. Its optical system makes it the best scope for DMR.
With this scope’s glass quality and durability, you surely do not regret buying it once you have it already.
It cannot be denied that this is one of the scopes that is worth more than the amount it costs—clearly, it has proven that its quality is beyond what is expected of it which is why it is included on this list.
Illumination Settings: This scope comes with 11 illumination settings that contribute to its versatility. With the first two settings made perfectly for night vision, you surely would not have a problem using this scope in low-light situations.
It will perform and spot with the brightest targets when used under direct sun, but it will still be able to perform well and provide adequate light when used at night.
Durability and Reliability: This specific model of scope is designed to have a 6063-aluminum body that makes it very durable; and when this body is combined with this scope’s nitrogen-purged parts and black anodized finish, the whole scope is made shock-proof, waterproof, and fog-proof.
So, if you are looking for a surely reliable scope that you can use, then you might as well consider this one because it will surely last long too.
Lifetime Warranty: As mentioned above, having a lifetime warranty is one of the most amazing features that all products can have.
Imagine having your purchased product backed with an assurance that you can have it fixed or replaced anytime it has defects or damages. Truly, this is one is a good find since and surely worth every centavo you are going to spend to for it.
10. Visionking Optics Riflescope
Visionking Optics Riflescope is one of the finest you will see at the market these days. This one is ruggedly designed, and it can provide one of the finest optics you will ever experience. Also, it is one of the most appealing on the exterior.
It has a matte black finish that makes it look very elegant and classy. Also, it is one of the most top-rated scopes at the online markets nowadays—truly proof that it is one of the most relevant scopes that you will ever see.
Durability and Reliability: Since this scope is ruggedly designed and has a nitrogen-filled built, this scope is also one of the most durable and most reliable scopes you will ever encounter. With this scope’s construction, it has been proven to last long and perform well in the field.
Also, this scope has an instant and extreme target acquisition that works well in different weather conditions—even the tough and harsh ones.
Versatility: This scope is made to perform just as well even in low light conditions. As much as it is a perfect choice during bright conditions, it will still not let you down when used during nighttime or cloudy days where there is very little light.
This feature does not just talk about this scope’s versatility in different conditions, it can also be due to this scope’s reliability in different activities or purposes such as hunting, military uses, and even target shooting.
Fully Multi-coated Lenses: Another factor that contributes to this scope’s reliability even in low light conditions is its lenses that provide the maximum light transmission possible. If you are looking for a scope that performs well overall, then this might be your choice.
Importance of Having a Good Scope
Even if you have a mediocre rifle, you can be able to have a good fight in the field as long as you have the best scope with you. As mentioned above, having a good magnification setting for your scope is one of the most important factors that you should consider.
But besides that, there are also some other things that you should consider too. And it is important that you have a good scope since it will make you accurate and precise when you are shooting your targets in the field.
How far can you shoot with an 8X scope?
The scope with a 1-8X power range has the potential to work according to a wide variety of situations. Purchasing a riflescope that is not exceeding the 8X range is a great option when it comes to thinking about power settings.
Initially, you need to understand that most of the military snipers utilize the riflescope which has a power range from 7-10. This indicates the 8X power magnification suits appropriate to the pattern of functional performance.
The power ranging from 2X to 7X is very effective in every practical range while hunting. By using this power range, you can hit the target from 300 to 1000 yards. Also, this magnification range allows the user to hunt the prey even it’s far away.
Keep in mind that the glass of the riflescope should be quality. Because the quality of the image depends upon the quality of glass that is installed in the 8X power range device. Due to the quality of glass, the price range of the scope will be valid consideration at this point.
Which is better, FFP or SFP?
The main element of the riflescope is its reticle, which is placed in either FFP (First Focal Plane) or SFP (Second Focal Plane). Regardless of magnification, the prime variation between FFP and SFP is that an FFP reticle will appear to be the different sizes, but the size of the reticle will appear the same in the SFP reticle.
A number of American hunters have been utilizing the SFP reticle-mounted riflescope. The reason is that the style of the SFP reticle has been very common and useful for American hunting purposes for generations. At the same time, the FFP reticle was widely used by long-range shooters/snipers. The FFP reticle clearly follows the techniques of long-range snipers, making it ideal for hunters who want to shoot long-range.
In the FFP reticle, it’ll appear either smaller or larger through the riflescope’s magnification range is decreased or increased, respectively. But in reality, the FFP reticle keeps the identical view with the target size throughout the range of magnification, which means the holdover point of the scope remains constant throughout the magnification range.
In the SFP reticle, the holdover point of the scope only works at one magnification range (usually in the highest setting). If the magnification of the scope is set to lower, then the size of the reticle will change corresponding to the change of the target. At this point, the addition of the spacing will also change.
Experts reported that you can utilize a mathematical formula to accurately find the space for each power setting and achieve the goal quickly. But sometimes such a mathematical formula itself can become confusing and complicated.
Things to Consider before Buying a Scope
• Optics
In order for you to fully assess the quality of the scope you are buying; it is important that you consider looking at its optics first. The optics is what will make you see bright and clear images through it. Obviously, the higher the quality of the optics, the better.
• Durability
This is another important factor that you should check when you are looking for a scope. Of course, you are looking for a scope that would last long so you can use it longer and make it your hunting companion for a long period of time.
• Weight
You should also consider the portability of the scope that you are going to buy. It is important that you can carry it anytime and anywhere especially when you are a very spontaneous person who likes to go hunting at unexpected times and occasions.
• Price
Nowadays, there are a lot of scopes that are offered for a low price but perform as well as the high-end ones. So, it is important that you choose a scope that will make you spend less while having the luxury of enjoying more features.
Takeaway
The magnification of your scope is one of the most important decisions that you should take when you are planning to buy one. With that considered, you would not have any problems because all of the above-mentioned scopes are of great help in that since they all have a scope magnification setting that ranges from 1X to 8X.
The only factors that you should consider when it comes to buying one is the other features such as the durability, the versatility, the reliability, the reticle type, the quality of optics, the price and many other things.
Well, good for you because all of the things that you have to consider are already mentioned above and could serve as your buying guide. With a lot of choices that you have at the markets these days, you surely would enjoy having them narrowed down by this list.
Remember that everything is always a matter of preference—choose the scope that you are comfortable using even if it does not have the most powerful features. You are still the one that is in control, and you will be at your best when you are comfortable with the scope that you are using.