As hunting has become the most common hobby nowadays. Getting into the wild with the right gear is always very important. So that you can return home with dozens of flesh and happiness.
Now, what is the major gear needed for hunting? Absolutely, the rifle is very important, but you can’t make a perfect shot without an optic for the rifle. I think you’ve got my point. Rifle alone cannot bring incredible success for your hunting. An optic or scope is the must-have gear for your hunting or shooting.
Now you’ll have a doubt, what type of optic will help me throughout my adventure? When looking for it, all of our eyes will go behind the high-power scope. But I’d say, high-power scopes may not help you at all times. It would be the best choice for long-range hunting. For low to medium-level hunting, I’d always prefer LPVO scopes.
What is LPVO?
LPVO scopes are the Low Power Variable Optics that are extremely popular among tactical and sporting aficionados. It is designed with very low magnification levels for close to medium-range shots. They have a true 1x magnification at the lower end and ranges up to 10x, that is 1x-4x, 1x-5x, 1x-6x, 1x-8x, 1x-10x, etc, and anything above it is not considered as a low power variable optic (LPVO).
Among these, the 1-6x and 1-8x scopes have become more popular with the introduction of bullets that have increased ballistic capability, such as the 224 Valkyrie. This shows that LPVO’s can also be used for long-distance shooting, with just a turn of a power ring. No one can beat the accuracy and speed of the LPVO’s.
These LPVO’s are mostly compared with red dot optics as both are used in the same way to make faster and accurate shots at close and mid ranges. Therefore, it is an effective solution for self-defense, competitive shooting, hunting, and other applications.
So here, my complete review is about the Best LPVO scopes under different magnification ranges. The review is fully based on my experience and testing, so you can hopefully go for it.
Best LPVO Scopes Reviewed
The 1-4x LPVO is remarkably versatile magnification scopes that do not need much effort for working. Personally, I like the 1-4x options a bit more.
1. Monstrum Alpha Series 1-4x 24mm Riflescope
Monstrum is continuously surprising us with their top-quality optics that won’t break the bank. The Alpha Series 1-4x LPVO of Monstrum is budget-friendly but performs well above its paygrade. So don’t think that it is a low-quality optic for its price tag under 200. It would be a perfect partner for home defense.
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Magnification: 1 – 4 x
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Reticle: Type-C
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Eye Relief: 3.5 – 3.9 in
- Weight: 14 oz
Image Quality
The scope is built with impressive glass and fully multi-coated lenses to provide excellent image quality. Truly, the image quality is phenomenal at variable magnification ranges.
Adjustment Knobs
The smooth turrets provide easy windage adjustments and precise holdover. It has a long eye relief between 4 and 4.5 inches.
Reticle
It boasts the first focal plane reticle with etched glass for reliable performance. It is a new line of optics without bells and whistles. As the reticle is not illuminated, it is visible in black. Further, the BDC reticle works well at both the lower and higher end of the magnification range.
Construction
The Monstrum Alpha series is engineered with aircraft grade 6061 aluminum that is tough and highly durable. It is provided with a nitrogen-filled tube to resist fog and water. In addition, it has given a hard-anodized outer finish to protect the scope from scratches. It also comes with flip-up lens covers to protect the scope lenses when not in use.
Overall, it would be a guilt-free purchase for shooters who’re on a tight budget. You won’t feel that you’ve pinched too many pennies.
Pros
- Smooth adjustments
- Rugged construction
- Faster range estimation and holdover correction
Cons
- Reticle is not illuminated
2. Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x 24mm Riflescope
Bushnell is also the topmost brand in the tactical industry well-known for its quality production. Though it uses high-quality materials, Bushnell tries to give their products in an affordable box. Their AR Optics 1-4x 24mm riflescope also comes in that line.
It is the most affordable and the best option for those who go for 3-gun shooting competitions.
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Reticle: Illuminated BTR-1
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Exit Pupil: 6 – 24 mm
- Color: Black
Throw Lever
The biggest difference of Bushnell from any other optic in the list is the integrated throwing lever. Bushnell designed it on the magnification ring to avoid snapping while in the field or training. You can also fold it for storage.
Reticle
The next noteworthy feature in Bushnell AR optics is the BTR-1 reticle. The BTR-1 reticle is as simple as the BDC reticle that enables the horizontal crosshairs to estimate the ranges between 300 and 500 yards.
Magnification
To be honest, shooting with 4x magnification at 600 yards is a bit of a stretch. Your vision with 4x at 600 yards will be the same as with 1x at 150 yards, which means you can’t see much at 600 yards and above. For me, the happy place of Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x rifle scope is anywhere up to 300 yards. To go beyond that, you need more skills and training.
Parallax Adjustment
It is mostly compared with the red dot scope than the expensive scopes. A red dot can be mounted anywhere in the rifle as it gives unlimited eye relief and better parallax below 50 yards. Similarly, Bushnells offers 3.5 inches of eye relief, but a better parallax at 100 yards and above.
Build Quality
And finally, its build quality. The Bushnell AR optics riflescope features an anti-reflective coating on all air/glass surfaces. This improves light transmission and delivers high-contrast, bright images regardless of the magnification.
It also boasts target-style exposed turrets that help you make easy adjustments for windage and elevation.
Pros
- Fully-multi coated optics
- Throw Down PCL power change lever
- Deliver crisp images in all lighting conditions
Cons
- The 4x magnification is not wide at 600 yards.
3. Steiner T5Xi Tactical Rifle Scope
There’s a lot to say about the Steiner T-Series, and it’s one of my favorites. Steiner Optical Systems is one of the finest optics in the world. The company polished all their lenses and produced multiple layers with their exclusive coatings to provide incredible image clarity, contrast, and sharpness.
If your wallet is hefty enough to make a big purchase of LPVO, then the Steiner T5Xi Tactical Scope is for you. Most shooters will be very well aware of the number of quality features packed into this pricey little beauty.
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Magnification: 1 – 5 x
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Field of View, Linear: 21 – 108 ft at 100 yds
- Eye Relief: 3.5 – 4.3 in
- Color: Black
- Weight: 19.4 oz
- Length: 11.3 in
Lenses
Steiner’s optics is more popular for their impeccable image clarity and this is because of the unique lens system. The lens is applied with exclusive coatings layer after layer to increase contrast, detail, and clarity even in low light.
Throw Lever
The Steiner optics holds a throw lever for quick magnification adjustments and a second rotation indicator helps you keep up with that adjustment.
What’s special in it?
Steiner’s Special Competition Reticle (SCR) is the competing feature here. It is glass-etched and illuminated to help you aim in low light conditions. This FFP reticle is detailed and provides 1/2-mil holdover lines, 2/10-mil windage, and 1/10-mil ranging brackets. These markings are calibrated for 7.62 NATO, saying that this Steiner scope would be the best M1A scope for your M1A rifles.
Further, it features 11 brightness settings to optimize visibility. It even has 4 settings optimized for use with night vision.
Pros
- SCR illuminated Reticle
- Razor-sharp image clarity
- Low-profile turret
Cons
- Parallax adjustment can be much better
4. Vortex Optics Strike Eagle SFP Riflescope
This Vortex Optics Strike Eagle Riflescope has a high reputation for the best of the best performance of long range scope. This is a popular choice for military and law enforcement.
Serious competition shooters also love these optics because of their reliability, quality, broad adjustment range, and beneficent magnification.
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Magnification: 1 – 6 x
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Field of View, Linear: 19.2 – 116.5 ft at 100 yds
- Eye Relief: 3.5 in
- Weight: 18.5 oz
Magnification & Parallax
There are different magnification options available in this scope, in which 4-24x magnification range is suitable for long range hunting. The magnification ring is very nice and smooth, you can quickly switch the magnification range.
The parallax adjustment knob is next to the illuminated knob, so it is a bit hard to turn. The parallax adjustment starts from 20 ft to infinity.
Optics Quality
The fully multi-coated lens of this scope provides a bright and crisp image of the target. The glass-etched gives detailed hold points and provides an optimal view. The 50 mm objective lens allows maximum light transmission of the better view in low light conditions.
Reticle
The EBR-4 reticle is used in this scope, it is specially designed for long-range shooting. This reticle is more effective on windage correction, range determination, and moving target leads.
The reticle is placed on the second focal plane that is behind the magnifying lens, so the reticle size will be the same in all magnification ranges. The advantage of the SFP reticle is it will maintain the same appearance.
Eye Relief and Eye Box
The eye relief distance is 3.5 inches, it is a safe distance to shoot long-range targets. The eye box is also okay, but you have to be more careful when the scope is fully magnified.
Elevation and Windage Adjustment
Elevation and windage adjustment is important to focus the moving target. The turret for elevation adjustment is a bit hard to operate, but it will be fine when you are using it continuously. It will adjust 1/4 MOA per click, and the total adjustment range is 80 MOA in both the elevation and windage adjustment range.
Note: The illuminated reticle has 11 brightness settings that helps to focus on the target during dawn or dusk.
Pros
- Durable construction
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Smooth magnification change
- 11 brightness setting
Cons
- The turret is hard to use for the first time
5. Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II SFP Riflescopes
If you can able spend more money on bright reticles and good quality optics then Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II SFP Riflescope is a better choice. The premium quality material used in this scope provides durability, so you can use it for long period. This scope from Vortex is one of the best options for long-range shooting.
- Magnification: 1-6X
- Objective Lens: 24 mm
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Field of view: 18.8 – 112.5 ft at 100 yards
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane
- Illumination Type: LED
- Weight: 22.7 oz
Magnification
There are different magnification ranges are available in this scope, from that 5-25x magnification range is suitable for long-range shooting. The magnification ring is very smooth and easy to access, so you quickly switch the magnification range. Moreover, the 1-6x magnification option of the scope is suitable for close-range to mid-range targets.
Glass Quality
The Extra-low dispersion glass is used in this scope that increases the color fidelity and resolution of the image. The XR fully multi-coated lens provides a crisp and clear image of the target. Also, the Armortex coating will protect the lens from dirt, oil, and scratches. The 24mm objective lens allows maximum light transmission for the bright image in low light conditions.
Reticle
The VMR-2 MOA style reticle is used in this scope, it provides high intuitive, functional, and detailed hold points to the shooters. It helps to the perfect shot for every time.
Construction
This scope has a single-piece design, which is constructed by using aircraft-grade aluminum that provides a durable platform to the shooters. The Argon purged and O-ring seal does not allow moisture into the scope and it provides fog-proof and waterproof performance.
Pros
- Extra-low dispersion glass
- Adjustable parallax
- Fiber optic rotation indicator
- RZR zero stop
Cons
- Bit pricey
6. Primary Arms SLX 1-6x24 SFP Rifle Scope
This Primary Arms SLX 1-6x is the best budget-friendly LPVO scope. This SLx is one of the famous LPVO scopes used in a lot of rifle competitions. This SLx optics from the Primary Arms has a separate fan base because it comes with a more new generation option for their customers.
The wind hold, bullet drop compensation range estimation, and moving target leads help to the easy use and the instinctive sighting system is very fast while shooting 0-300 yards targets and it gives accurate shot from 300-800 yards.
- Magnification: 1-6x
- Objective Lens: 24 mm
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane
- Field of View: 110-19.3 ft at 100 yards
- Eye Relief: 3.3-3.5 inches
- Battery Type: CR2032
Magnification and Parallax
This Primary Arms SLx Riflescope has a variable 1-6x magnification that gives a versatile performance. The lens has always 1x magnification, so it is also considered the best scope for CQB and short-range shooting. In addition, it does not come with the parallax adjustment, which is not really important for the LPVO.
Durability
This scope is constructed by using 6063 aluminum alloy and the tube has nitrogen purged that gives durability to this scope. The lens gives a fog-proof and waterproof performance. The matte black finish helps well in test drops, bumping, and scratches. The 30 mm tube gives a sturdy and compact design that gives durable performance.
Eye Relief
The 3.3-3.5 inch eye relief of this Primary Arms SLx riflescope helps to get excellent performance and the eye box is also very comfortable to use. This scope also has a wide field of view. You can also easily and quickly shoot the target just like the best scout scope.
Reticle
This rifle scope has a patented Advanced Combined Sighting System (ACSS) 22LR reticle. This reticle is placed in the second focal plane, which means it will remain in the same size in all magnification range. The illumination of this reticle is red in color with an 11 brightness setting that gives a wide selection option. The brightness setting ensures that you can shoot and hunt in dawn and dusk.
Pros
- Rugged construction
- Fully multi-coated lens
- Spare reticle illumination battery compartment
Cons
- Heavy
7. Leupold VX-6HD 1-6x24mm Riflescope
If you want to spend money for the most premium quality LPVO scope, this Leupold VX-6HD Riflescope is highly recommended for you. It is not only the best LPVO scope and also it is one of the best shotgun scopes. The incredible features of this scope provide durable and reliable performance, which is more important in competitions.
- Magnification: 1-6x
- Objective Lens: 24 mm
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane
- Field of view: 123.2-20.3 ft at 100 yards
- Weight: 13.4 oz
- Illumination Type: Fiber Optics
Glass Quality
The glass of this scope provides a crystal clear view. The grade-ion optical coating also helps to a crisp and clear image of the target. The flip-back lens cover is also provided in this scope, so you don’t want to worry about scratches.
The twilight max light management system makes this scope provides better performance while hunting in dawn and dusk. But it does not come in the list of best night vision scope for AR-15. It can only able to extend the twilight shooting by half an hour.
Reticle
One of the favorite features of this scope is its ultrabright first duplex reticle. It allows you to adjust the brightness level by using the push button. The electronic leveling system of this scope indicates when the reticle is not in the level.
Windage and Elevation Knob
The turrets are very crisp and audible click for the easy turn. The removable throw lever of this scope provides excellent long-range shots. By using the CDS-ZLZ dial lock, you can lock the turret setting for the perfect shot. Once you set it, the lock will ensure that the scope will not accidentally knock it off zero.
Magnification
The magnification range of this scope is 1-6x. This magnification range makes it great for hunting small games and you don’t require two different scopes to shoot rabbits and deer in the same hunting.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Illuminated FireDot Reticle
- Works well in low light condition
Cons
- The turret is hard to use for first time
8. EOTech Vudu 1-8x SFP Riflescope
EOTech Vudu Precision Riflescope is one of the best lpvo that does not need any introduction because it was manufactured by the most famous brand EOTech that has set a truly solid reputation in manufacturing high-quality scopes. Their scopes are built strong, durable, and provide reliable performance.
Well, this EOTech’s Vudu Precision Riflescope also lives up to that reputation. It is a new model unveiled in 2019, not an improved version of the 1-6x riflescope. It’s entirely new to the market in all its features. It is made specifically for extreme use to have an improved shooting experience.
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Magnification: 1 – 8 x
- Tube diameter: 30mm
- Reticle system: HC3 reticle
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Eye relief: 3 to 4 inches
- Color: Black
- Length: 10.6 inches
- Weight: 21.3 ounces
XCHigh-Density Glass
One interesting feature that makes the scope more expensive is the XCHigh-Density Glass. This helps shooters and hunters by providing impressive image clarity with maximum light transmission. It is built with anti-reflective lenses that enhance the optics more.
Magnification Ring
Here, I’m not going to talk about magnification, because all the scopes under this category have 1-8x magnification. Then what else to deal here? The magnification ring. It is an interesting feature to consider.
The magnification ring will give you the ability to switch from one magnification setting to another without much effort. You will experience easy transitions from 1x to higher.
Durability
This scope is built with aircraft-grade aluminum which is the most durable material out there. The solid and tough construction can withstand rugged use.
Pros
- Great for shooting
- XC High density glass
- Solid construction
Cons
- Might be heavy
9. Trijicon Credo HX Riflescope
Trijicon brings a lot of value to all their products and the price tag reflects it. Their scopes are made with premium quality materials that offer strong durability and consistent use for longer periods and so they have gained a lot of military contracts. The Trijicon Credo RX riflescope is one of the best options for long-distance shooting.
- Objective Lens Diameter: 28 mm
- Reticle: MOA Segmented Circle
- Tube Diameter: 34 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Field of View, Linear: 105.8 – 13.2 ft at 100 yds
- Field of View, Angle: 20 – 2.53 degrees
- Eye Relief: 3 – 4 in
- Color: Black
- Weight: 25.6 oz
Magnification
Though it is a long-range scope, it opens up with a true 1x for close targets. With added flexibility, you can shoot out to 400 yards and farther away to 800 yards with practice.
Reticle
The Credo HX 1-8×28 scope comes with MOA segmented reticle. It uses a cross-hair and adds MOA lines on all four axes to give you aiming points for holdovers. It also features dual illuminated reticles (red/green) that provide a clear aiming point for hunting in any environment. Further, it offers LED brightness settings to adapt to any environment.
Build Quality
It is made of 6061 Aircraft Grade Aluminum material, which sounds good. The rugged design ensures that it can withstand extreme hunting conditions and they are tested to military standards and protocols.
Lens
The objective lens is slightly bigger compared to other scopes on this list. The lens and fully multi-coated anti-reflective glass offer excellent image clarity and good low-light performance. The eye relief is between 3 to 4 inches and so you can keep both the eyes open while shooting.
Quick Adjustments
It does not require any tool for windage/elevation adjustments and is made very simple. Sleek finish and low-profile controls prevent snagging. Capped or zero stop adjusters ensure no accidental shift.
Pros
- Easy windage and elevation adjustments
- Military standard quality
- Dual illuminated reticles
Cons
- A bit heavy
10. Swampfox Arrowhead 1-10x 24 Riflescope
Swampfox is a new company organised in 2018. Though it came late into the market, it is primarily catering products to the military, law enforcement, and others. The Arrowhead LPVO series from Swampfox is an excellent choice for hunters, offering several useful features both on range and duty.
- Reticle system: Guerilla Dot BDC or Guerilla Dot MOA
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Magnification: 1 – 10 x
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane
- Eye Relief: 3.46 inches
- Weight: 20.3 oz
- Length: 10.91 in
This 1-10x model features a 24mm objective lens diameter coupled to a 30mm scope tube, making it compatible with an array of 30mm scope rings.
The Arrowhead projects its reticle on the second focal plane, making it an ideal general-purpose optic. The glass is of high grade and provides superb image clarity at all magnification settings, with minimal edge blurring at 10x. Turret tracking of Swampfox is top of the line compared with expensive scopes.
Swampfox offers three reticle options for the Arrowhead Lpvo scope: Guerilla Dot BDC and Guerilla Dot MOA. If you primarily shoot .223/5.56 or .308/7.62 NATO, the BDC model features a battlesight zero centre dot accurate at 50 to 200 yards. It also includes three hash marks for 300 to 500 yards and three chevrons for 600 to 800 yards.
If you need more precision out of your reticle, then you can prefer the MOA model. It features a 30 MOA vertical hash mark ladder. Depending on the cartridge you shoot, the reticle will allow you to make precise shots at 900-1000 yards or more.
For hunting or heavy use in low-light conditions, the LED illumination system turns the reticle red with no blurring. Therefore, your aim will always be precise with a clear reticle showing your intended target at all times.
Pros
- Generous eye relief
- Multiple reticle options
- Superb turret tracking
Cons
- No major cons
How to choose LPVO Scope
The LPVO scope is similar to the red dot sight with a magnifier. Both optics are enhancing the precision of your shooting and help to the fast target acquisition in close range.
Image Clarity
The best LPVO scope should produce high contrast images and razor-sharp image clarity. The clarity of the glass is more important to consider in the best low-power variable optics.
If the dust in the optics, especially the scope with illuminated reticle will make the scope very difficult to use. Dust in the scope is one of the problems in the affordable scopes. It will make a major problem when the illumination kick on, the light will show flecks of dust that will affect the quality of the image.
In some rare cases, the barrel length may cause this problem when the magnification range is 1X. In this case, you have the choice of whether the barrel visible at the bottom of the image is a problem for you or not.
Light Transmission
In the LPVO scopes, low power performance and light transmission are not big issues in the high magnification range. Because increasing the magnification range shrinks the exit pupil that will reduce the amount of light transmission.
So you can experience the brightness of the image in a high magnification range, especially in 6x and 8x. If you want to get a crystal clear quality image and better low light performance even in maximum magnification range then you can choose the best 1-6x scope that nearly provides a bright image in all magnification range.
Field of View
Field of view is also important to consider in the variable power scope, especially in the case of replacing a scope for iron sight and red dot sight. The field of view is how much around the center of the scope reticle. Don’t be a confused field of view with Eye Box.
Durability
If you require a truly versatile scope with a variable magnification range then it is also important to look at strength and durability. When it comes to durability, iron sight is an excellent one, it will be handled as much as abuse with the gun. Even the best 1-6x scope will not last that time period, but you don’t need to replace some other scope for a few years.
Conclusion
Most people consider 1-6x scopes as the standard for an LPVO, but there are a few more options that go either higher or lower. Choose wisely.