50+ Best LPVO (Low Power Variable Optic) 1-10x, 8x, 6x, & 4x Scopes in 2020

LPVOs (Low Power Variable Optics) are immensely popular among the tactical community and sporting aficionados. These variable rifle scopes provide users with the right magnification range for covering the effective range of the most-popular cartridges (including 5.56 NATO) used in AR-15 and other AR-style rifles.

The most important features of LPVOs include a true 1x magnification at the lower end and zoom power of 4x, 6x, 8x, and 10x. While 4x zoom Low Power Variable Optics are the most common ones, the higher power LPVOs (6x, 8x, and 10x) are the more recent offerings.

The higher magnification LPVOs (1-6x, 1-8x, and 1-10x) are becoming more popular with the introduction of cartridges having increased ballistic capability such as the 224 Valkyrie. These scopes make it sure that the tactical shooters are able to hit the targets precisely throughout the entire magnification range, right from close-quarter engagements to long-range precision shooting with the simple turn of a power ring.

If you are looking for a riflescope for covering the effective range of the most popular cartridges for close-quarter engagements to long-range precision shooting, always buy the best LPVO (Low Power Variable Optic) scopes in 2020. Check out the best LPVOs in accordance with varying power (magnification range): 1-4x, 1-6x, 1-8x, and 1-10x.

Best LPVO Scopes as per Power (Magnification Range)

Best 1-10x LPVO Scopes

The LPVO 1-10x scopes are best for the professional shooters who look for sports and tactical shooting at short to long distances without changing weapons. Unfortunately, there are only a handful of scopes that offer such flexibility in distances. All the manufacturers are trying to come up with their version of 1-10x Low Power Variable Optics to remedy this shortage.

However, this advancement will not be achieved until the optics companies are able to optimize their assembly technology and lens design to increase scope potential and come up with a more precise, economical and lightweight LPVO line with 1-10x magnification range.

The LPVO 1-10x riflescopes are specialized scopes that are right for the shooters who need them for a precise and clean shot. Let’s check out the best 1-10x LPVO scopes in 2020.

1. Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10×24 FFP Rifle Scopes

Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10×24 Riflescopes are the next evolution of the immensely popular Razor line of scopes. These scopes bring you the highest level of first focal plane (FFP) performance with extreme versatility (from true 1x lowest power magnification to 10x long-range capability). With Vortex Razor HD GEN III 1-10X24 Riflescope, you can shoot without limits.

Best for Use

• Military
• Law Enforcement
• Competition shooters

Highlights

• Razor HD Gen III 1-10×24 scopes bring you the crispness and clarity of an HD optical system, illuminated reticle, and high durability in a package that weighs just 21.5 oz (the same weight as the 1-6x model).

• These riflescopes provide you with a true 1x magnification in the low end so that you can shoot targets in the closest range. The 10x power enables a shooter to shoot a target in any range.

• The daylight bright illumination provides you reliable performance in all conditions, no matter whether it is close-range or long-range.

• Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10×24 Scopes come with EBR-9 (Enhanced Battle Reticle) reticle, which is a hashmark ranging reticle with MOA or MRAD based subtension lines for ranging, holdover, and windage corrections.
  The reticle is placed at the First Focal Plane (FFP) so that its scale remains in proportion to the zoomed image with constant subtensions (allowing accurate holdover as well as ranging at all magnifications).

• Razor HD Gen III 1-10×24 riflescope line with a 34 mm diameter tube size that provides maximized internal adjustment as well as strength.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• This new scope line in 2020 sets a new standard as it provides enhanced capabilities (1-10x in place of 1-6x) without changing the size or weight. Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10×24 Riflescope combines the capability of 3 riflescopes. Therefore, a shooter can achieve versatile high-level performance in a full effective range of capability and distance.
• Daylight bright reticle in the first focal plane with the red dot design at the center helps in precise aiming and targeting. Even at off angles, the illumination doesn’t vanish.
• It is a good value for money. It is priced at around $2,000. This riflescope has extreme shooting versatility (from CQB to long-range capabilities), providing you with capabilities of three riflescopes.

Cons:

• There is hardly any negative aspect associated with this scope.

Specifications

2. Sightmark Citadel 1-10×24 Rifle Scopes

Sightmark Citadel 1-10×24 Riflescopes are perfect for those hunters, shooters, and law enforcement personnel who are looking for a scope that enables them to hit targets from close-range to mid-range and at the same time help them in quick target acquisition. These 10x power (1-10x magnification range) scopes come with CR1 reticle (fine-etched, red-illuminated reticle having 11 brightness settings, BDC reticle calibrated for .223 55-grain ammo) and HDR reticle, located at the Second Focal Plane (SFP).

Best for Use

• Quick target acquisition
• Close-range to mid-range shooting for:
  • Competition Shooters
  • Hunters, and 
  • Law Enforcement

Highlights

• 10:1 Zoom Ratio (1-10x magnification)

• These scopes can withstand up to 50 BMG maximum recoil.

• Second Focal Plane reticle (CR1 and HDR reticles): Red-illuminated etched reticle with 11-brightness settings

• BDC Reticle calibrated for .223 55-grain ammo for CR-1 Reticle; HDR Reticle with ½ MOA click adjustments

• Capped low-profile turrets

• Fully multi-coated lens

• 30 mm single-piece tube. The main body is manufactured from aircraft-grade aluminum.

• Hard anodized finish

• IP67 waterproof, shockproof and fog proof

• Throw lever and flip-up caps are included

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Sightmark Citadel 1-10×24 Scopes belong to a rare breed of rifle scopes that provides you extreme versatility, thanks to its 1-10x magnification range (with true 1x power), rugged body structure, and ability to withstand up to 50 BMG maximum recoil. You can use it with almost all firearms including AR-15s.
• Fully multi-coated lens and illuminated reticle choices (CR1 or HDR) helps you hit targets in low light conditions as well as indoors.
• Citadel 1-10×24 Riflescopes come with excellent eye relief.
• Sightmark has been successful in providing hunters, competition shooters, and law enforcement personnel with a high quality, versatile riflescope that comes at a price below $400, a sweet spot for most shooters.

Cons

• The image looks almost grainy. However, at a below-$400 price point, the optical clarity is justified.

Specifications

Best 1-8x LPVO Scopes

The LPVO 1-8x scopes make it possible for hunters and shooters to make lengthier range shots and increase the probability of hitting the target. The true 1x magnification helps you to make extreme close-range shots successful. The 1-8x Low Power Variable Optic provides you more magnification without taking you to the higher class of riflescopes. That’s why these low-power scopes have become so popular. These riflescopes can be used in all ranges on most popular rifles.

So, let’s take a look at the best 1-8x scopes in 2020 so that you can pick out the best as per your needs and preferences.

1. Nightforce NX8 1-8×24 F1 Rifle Scope

Nightforce NX8 1-8X24 F1 Riflescopes are the class-leading scopes that have been optimized for short-to-mid-range shooting. These scopes deliver amazing image clarity and trusted Nightforce performance. Thanks to the compact body structure and lightweight performance, NX8 1-8X24 F1 scopes add minimal size and weight to any rifle, thereby helping you get the best out of shooting.

Best for Use

• Short-to-mid-range shooting & hunting (including hog hunting)
• Sports and competition shooting (including 3 Gun competitions)
• Defense and Tactical

Highlights

Nightforce NX8 1-8X24 F1 Scopes come with intelligent FC-Mil and FC-MOA reticles, located at First Focal Plane (FFP). While the daylight visible center red dot enables you to engage targets with speed at close range, precise hold points provided by the intelligent reticle helps in hitting targets at long distances with precision. Illumination is both daylight visible as well as externally adjustable.

• Lightweight (17 ounces) and compact scope structure (only 8.75 inches length) ensure that the scope adds minimal size and weight to the rifle.

• The 30 mm tube diameter ensures that you get 100 MOA/30 MRAD internal adjustment range (both elevation and windage) so that you can easily dial for long-distance shots. The click-value adjustment of the turrets is either .500 MOA or .2 MRAD.

• Nightforce Optics has incorporated the ZeroStop elevation adjustment, thereby allowing a rapid and positive return to zero. This feature is especially helpful for those shooters who prefer to dial for long-range shots.

• A built-in Power Throw Lever (PTL) has been incorporated in the riflescope for helping in fast magnification adjustments.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 8x zoom ratio (1-8x magnification range), high-quality optics, and rugged structure makes it a preferred choice for sports & competition shooters and close-to-medium-range hunters.
• Availability of this versatile scope (having trusted Nightforce performance) at a price below $2,000 makes it a popular choice among pro shooters/hunters.
• Nightforce NX8 1-8X24 F1 Scopes are lightweight, compact, and durable, thereby adding minimal size and weight to the rifle.

Cons

• Some complain that the reticle is hardly visible at 1x.

Specifications

2. EOTech Vudu 1-8×24 SFP Rifle Scope

EOTech Vudu 1-8×24 SFP Riflescope is the new release of the manufacturer for 2020. The true 1-8x magnification range provides multi-distance versatility and also increases your target acquisition speed.

This new 1-8×24 Second Focal Plane rifle scope boosts your speed advantage up close (as close as your muzzle) and also adds next-level surgical precision at distance (out to 500 to 600 yards with ease).

EOTECH has released this new, rugged, and feature-packed SFP scopeline to meet the needs of precision shooters. EOTech Vudu 1-8×24 SFP Riflescope fits all Modern Sporting Rifles (MSRs) including AR-15.

Best for Use

• The new EOTech Vudu 1-8×24 SFP Riflescope is a preferred choice of all precision shooters for:
  • Sports & Competition Shooting (including 3-Gun competition)
  • Pinkling
  • Home Defense
  • Duty & Law Enforcement
• These scopes can also be used by the starters who want to engage targets as close as the muzzle of a rifle and also at longer distances up to 500-600 yards with ease.

Highlights

• EOTech Vudu 1-8×24 SFP Scope comes with an ideal power range of 1x to 8x, allowing shooters to engage targets at point-blank range to medium-range easily. The included Power Throw Lever (PTL) helps shooters to change magnifications swiftly, which is especially helpful on field when you have to make decisions quickly.

• Vudu 1-8×24 scopes come with EZ-Clik SURGICALLY PRECISE TURRETS, which are low-profile, capped turrets. These are tactical-style turrets that have large, easy-to-adjust knobs as well as easy-to-read markings.
  EZ-Clik turrets help in quick, effortless return to zero. These knobs always land in perfect alignment and keep on delivering surgical precision even during hard use or in harsh conditions.

• A single CR2032 battery provides power for reticle illumination. It provides 500 hours or more than 20 days of continuous usage (when set on the middle brightness setting).

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 8x zoom ratio (1-8x magnification range), high-quality optics, and rugged structure makes it a preferred choice for sports & competition shooters and close-to-medium-range shooters.
• The pro-shooters will find the price attractive. At a price point around $1,300, the precision shooters will be able to enjoy the multi-distance versatility as well as increased target acquisition speed. 

Cons

EOTech Vudu 1-8×24 SFP Scopes weigh around 21.3 oz, which is a bit more than its peers. However, this weight will also not add much weight to the rifle system and you can use it easily for stalking and other sports that require you to move and act swiftly.

Specifications

3. Kahles K18i 1-8x24i Rifle Scope

Kahles has released its 8x zoom K18i 1-8x24i rifle scope to meet the needs of the 3-Gun and IPSC matches. This match-winner comes with an ultra-wide field-of-view, unique MAX LIGHT function, an individually adjustable throw lever, and extra-bright illuminated reticle(s).

Best for Use

Kahles K18i 1-8x24i Riflescope is best for sports and competition shooting. It is optimized for:

• 3-Gun matches
• IPSC matches

Highlights

• Kahles K18i 1-8x24i SFP Scopes come with 8x zoom, allowing shooters to engage targets from point-blank range (thanks to the true 1x magnification) to medium-range easily.

• It also provides the shooters with the ultra-wide field of view, enabling them to have a look at the wider range of visual field area.

• The K18i scope line comes with two special reticle options (3GR and IPSC), located in the second Focal Plane (SFP), and extra-bright day/night illumination (having MAX LIGHT function for extreme backlight situations). These specialized reticles have been designed with the support of recognized pro-shooters.

• Kahles has integrated throw levers in two alternative sizes having infinitely adjustable positions (that can be adjusted individually) in the K18i scope line. While one is compact (0.862 inches), the other is extended (1.43 inches) throw levers.

• Kahles K18i 1-8x24i Rifle Scopes come with OILPHOBIC coated lenses.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Pro shooters can choose reticle as per their specific requirements or sports/competition. The specialized reticles, designed with the support of recognized pro-shooters, give the sports shooters advantage in their respective games and gaining the advantage of their competitors.
• You can shoot even in extreme backlight situations, thanks to the MAX LIGHT function and the extra-bright day/night illumination.
• 8x zoom ratio (1-8x magnification range), high-quality optics, and rugged structure make Kahles K18i 1-8x24i SFP Scope a preferred choice for pro shooters, who want to shoot targets for sports and competition. The true 1x magnification enables you to shoot at close range (as close as a point-blank range).

Cons

There is hardly any negative point about it. However, some sports shooters may find the $2,500 price high. But it must be very clear that Kahles K18i 1-8x24i Rifle Scopes is a premium riflescope, which is a specialized one meant for the pro shooters only. Hence, the above $2000 price point is justified.

Specifications

4. Steiner M8Xi Rifle Scope

Steiner M8Xi Riflescope series is the new benchmark in the Designated Marksman Riflescope (DMR) series that comes with 8x zoom and an outstanding field of view (4.8-34.2 m at 100 m). Right from close quarter to mid-range scenarios, Steiner M8Xi 1-8×24 Scopes provide its operators with more flexibility as well as higher resolution.

Amazing optical quality coupled with the large field of view enables the shooter to get a perfect overview of the surroundings at all times. These new riflescopes have been manufactured to resist the toughest conditions.

Best for Use

Steiner M8Xi 1-8×24 Rifle Scopes are Designated Marksman Riflescopes that are best for combat, law & order, and other advanced shooting scenarios.

Highlights

• Steiner M8Xi 1-8×24 Riflescopes come with a 34 mm main tube that provides users with greater elevation and windage adjustments, enabling users to take longer-range shots.

• These scopes come with enhanced legendary Steiner ruggedness. It operates within a temperature range from -40°C to +64°C, remains waterproof up to 20 m (66 feet), and withstands up to 900Gs.

• Steiner M8Xi Riflescopes are available with DMR8i illuminated reticle.

• Steiner M8Xi 1-8×24 Scopes come with an overall short length. It is just 10.8 inches long and weighs 26.5 oz. This short length provides more rail space for clip-on devices so that designated marksmen can use advanced devices (such as thermal imaging or night vision) to carry out superior operations in combat situations.

• Steiner Optics has incorporated low profile turrets in the Steiner M8Xi 1-8×24 riflescopes, providing shooters with outstanding situational awareness during combat. In fact, this provides additional mounting options so that shooters can use add-ons and accessories, as per need and choice.

• The elevation and windage adjustments are precise, easy to adjust, and readily adjustable for repeated accuracy. The elevation/windage turrets come with tactile click-by-click feedback that the shooter can hear and feel. To enable the shooter to know where exactly he/she is in the adjustment, Steiner M8Xi 1-8×24 Scopes come with a second rotation indicator.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• It is a high-quality scope that comes with extreme sturdiness and amazing high-quality optics.
• DMR8i is a precise reticle, enabling operators in the combat to hit the target precisely.
• The shorter size of this riflescope enables shooters to attach advanced devices such as thermal/night vision scope.

Cons

• The above $3,000 price may be a dampener for some. As Steiner M8Xi 1-8×24 is a premium category scope, meant for designated marksmen, the price is justified.

Specifications

5. Schmidt Bender PM II 1-8×24 ShortDot Rifle Scope

Schmidt Bender PM II 1-8×24 ShortDot Dual CC Rifle Scope is one of the most technically advanced day scopes in the market.

This feature-rich scope comes with a true 8x zoom (1-8x magnification range), a true 1x power setting, ideal both-eyes-open optical sight at 1x setting, Mil Dot-based reticles (located at the First Focal Plane or FFP) such as MDR and MDR T6, a highly visible and distinctive center dot (with adjustable intensity illumination) in the Second Focal Plane or SFP, and lockable elevation/windage turrets. This riflescope has won a German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) tender, making it the top-notch scope in the 1-8x range.

Best for Use

Schmidt Bender 1-8×24 PM II ShortDot Rifle Scopes are perfect for:

• Most advanced multipurpose close combat
• Short to mid-range mobile-use shooting in urban terrain
• Identification purpose

Highlights

• CC in the Schmidt Bender PM II 1-8×24 ShortDot Dual CC Rifle Scope stands for Close Combat. This scope design provides the combat shooters with the advantages of both a conventional riflescope and a reflex sight. In the CC mode, this riflescope provides you with a true 1-time magnification as well as a parallax-free feature up to 7 m. The parallax remains free up to 100 m when you increase the magnification above the CC mode of the scope.

• Schmidt Bender PM II 1-8×24 ShortDot Dual CC Rifle Scopes come with a highly visible and distinctive center dot or FlashDot in the Second Focal Plane (SFP). The size of the red dot seems to remain constant and doesn’t get magnified. The FlashDot comes with adjustable intensity illumination (eligible 3 different illumination increments).

  As you crank up the magnification to higher values, you will be able to use the mildot reticle (either MDR or MDR T6) in the First Focal Plane (FFP), enabling you to directly measure the target and object size. There are 8 different incremental reticle illumination, out of which 3 illuminations have been optimized for night vision usage.

• Schmidt & Bender 1-8×24 PM II ShortDot Dual CC Scopes are compact 2-in-1 riflescope systems, having a length of just 293 mm (11.54 inches). These lightweight rifle scopes weigh just 625 g (22.05 oz).

• The shooters get wide field-of-view, which ranges between 35.3 m and 4.9 m at 100 m.

• The elevation/windage turrets are lockable ones, protecting the zero position against any kind of unintentional adjustment.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• It is regarded as one of the leading technically advanced day scopes that has also won a German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) tender.
• Schmidt & Bender 1-8×24 PM II ShortDot Dual CC Scopes provide you the RDS (Red Dot Sight) advantage as well as the magnification range of a LPVO (8x zoom or 1-8x magnification range).
• You can use it with a wide range of firearms including a proper 7.62 battle rifle, a longer barreled build firearm, a hunting rig, 300 BLK, and iterations of 300 BLK such as super short 5-inch barreled AR and traditional longer barreled bolt action.
• Schmidt & Bender 1-8×24 PM II ShortDot Dual CC Riflescope is an absolute powerhouse in the LPVO category. The brand name vouches for the quality of the scope. It is perfect for combat operations and can be used in extreme field and weather conditions.

Cons

• The $4,000 price-range may be too high a price for some pro shooters. However, if you are looking for a combat-ready LPVO riflescope for short-to-medium range shooting, this is definitely one of the best in the market currently. Considering the quality and combat-readiness, the price is justified.

Specifications

6. Swarovski Z8i SR 1-8×24 Rifle Scope

Swarovski Z8i SR 1-8×24 Rifle Scope is a versatile and powerful experts’ rifle scope that comes with an exceptional field-of-view, perfect optical system, 8x zoom (1x to 8x magnification range), a slim & elegant design, and Swarovski’s special features such as Swarolight, Swaroclean, and rugged SR SWAROVSKI OPTIK Rail mounting rail (for the SR variant only).

Swarovski Z8i 1-8×24 Scopes are available with specialized Flexchange 4A-IF (switchable) reticle.

This line of scope helps you maintain an overview in rapidly changing situations and consequently helps you in making the right decision at the right time.

Best for Use

Swarovski Z8i 1-8×24 4A-IF SFP Riflescope is best for expert hunters who are looking for:

• Driven hunting
• Big game hunting

Highlights

• Swarovski Z8i 1-8×24 Scopes come with the first switchable 4A-IF FLEXCHANGE reticle. The hunters can switch on/off an illuminated ring around the red center dot with the simple push of a button. This switchable reticle provides you greater flexibility so that you can adapt in accordance with any hunting situation or challenge.

• The Swarovski Z8i rifle scopes come with an outstanding optics and 8x zoom. These scopes combine high levels of detail accuracy with a large field of view. Therefore, a hunter or shooter can get optimum detail recognition at all magnification ranges, including at high magnifications. Uncompromising image definition throughout the entire field-of-view and exceptional viewing comfort enables you in rapid target acquisition.

• Swarovski has created new standards in design and ergonomics to come up with this perfectly designed scope: Swarovski Z8i SR 1-8×24. This scope comes with a slim central tube (having 30-mm diameter), compact design, and clear lines. That’s what makes them blend seamlessly with all types of hunting firearms. To make Z8i quick and reliable to handle, Swarovski Optik has incorporated a perfectly ergonomic illumination unit and large operating features.

• Swarovski has come up with a Ballistic Turret Flex (BTF), the single turret that is best suited for all eventuality. The specialty of this BTF turret is that a hunter or shooter can be configured separately with the use of 3 different ring types. You can combine this turret with all kinds of available reticles, providing you enhanced flexibility of use. BTF turret can be used both as a side or top turret.
  1. When used BTF as a top turret, you can use it to compensate for bullet drop.
  2. When used as a side turret, you can use it for windage adjustment as well as estimate the lead distance.

• A Personalized Ballistic Ring (PBR) accessory (optional) accompanies the BTF. It helps the hunter to make the maximum adjustment with respect to all relevant hunting distances. The PBR can be customized as per the data fed by the shooter into the SWAROVSKI OPTIK ballistic program and therefore is customized as per the ammunition selected/preferred by the shooter.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Swarovski Z8i SR 1-8×24 4A-IF SFP Riflescope comes with an incredible optic (along with Swarolight and Swaroclean features) that gathers and transmits more light so that you can have crystal clear, edge-to-edge view of the target and surrounding in all light conditions (including twilight).
• The illuminated, switchable reticle (4A-IF FLEXCHANGE) provides you greater flexibility so that you can adapt to the hunting situation or challenge. The illuminated center at the reticle helps you take shots during twilight or low light conditions.
• With an 8x zoom ratio, you can shoot from point-blank range (true 1x magnification) to 8x medium-range magnification.
• The Ballistic Turret Flex (BTF) system is user-configurable and it helps in making adjustments for shooting easily at varying distances.
• The turrets are user-friendly, making it easy to hold and adjust with/without gloves.

Cons

The price of more than $2,500 may look steep to some hunters. As Swarovski Z8i scopes belong to a premium category, meant for expert hunters, the price is justified.

Specifications

7. Other Best LPVO 1-8x Scopes

Best 1-6x LPVO Scopes

The LPVO 1-6x scopes are capable of doing almost anything. While they can be used as fast as a red dot sight at close-up shots, the 6x magnification can be used for hitting targets at several hundred yards easily.

Now, you may ask why you should choose an LPVO of 1-6x magnification range instead of a red dot sight having a magnifier combo. The LPVOs are superior to the red-dot and magnifier combination as the former provides you a range of magnifications instead of 1x or 3x magnifications. This feature is especially helpful for the shooters in competition. The most important benefit of LPVOs over the red-dot-cum-magnifier combo is that of the reticles that provide shooters the advantage of shooting at longer distances. The etched reticles in LPVOs also don’t need a battery. The reticles in LPVOs are especially clearer for those hunters and shooters who suffer from astigmatism.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the best 1-6x scopes in 2020 so that you can pick and choose the best as per your needs and preferences:

1. Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24 Riflescope

Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24 Rifle Scope is the perfect versatile scope for the shooters who want to hit targets right from close quarters to long-range ones. To help the shooters get easy access to the knob and at the same time streamlined performance, Vortex Optics has put the illumination dial on the opposite side of the windage knob. It offers shooters with a highly functional and intuitive VMR-2 reticle (located in Second Focal Plane), available in both MOA and MRAD.

Best for Use

Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24 Rifle Scopes are best for:

• Practical shooting
• Tactical shooting
• Multiple hunting scenarios (including rabbit hunting)

Highlights

• Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24 Riflescopes come with a hash-marked VMR-2 reticle (located in the Second Focal Plane or SFP), which uses either MOA or MRAD-based subtension lines to the range, holdover, windage corrections, and moving target leads. This illuminated reticle helps shooters in precise aiming under low light conditions.
  
  This highly functional and intuitive reticle (located in the Second Focal Plane) provides detailed hold points but at the same time also provides shooters with an uncluttered and optimal view. There are 10 illumination brightness levels with off positions between each setting.

• Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24 Rifle Scope comes with 6x zoom (1x to 6x magnification range), making it a perfect versatile scope for multiple hunting scenarios. It is especially best for rabbit hunting and tactical scenarios. Whether you are shooting at an almost point-blank range, 300 meters, or even more, you will find the 6x zoom very helpful.

• This riflescope line comes with a 30 mm diameter tube size so that you can get maximum internal adjustment as well as strength. The single-piece main tube is constructed from solid block of aircraft-grade aluminum, providing shooters with maximum strength as well as rigidity. The highly durable hard-coat finish provides shooters with a low-glare matte surface and at the same time also helps the shooter to camouflage.

• Extra-low dispersion (XD) lens elements along with proprietary XR Fully Multi-Coating provides hunters and shooters with crystal clear and sharp images having high resolution and color fidelity.

• Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24 Scopes have been provided with ArmorTek ultra-hard, scratch-resistant coating so that the shooters can use them in all field/weather conditions without worrying about scratches, oil, and dirt.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• This LPVO riflescope works with almost any carbine application, making it a true all-rounder from close quarters to long-range shots. It works best with AR platforms, making it a desirable optical device for multiple applications (tactical, hunting, competition, 3 Gun, etc.).
• With all the robust features, Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24 Scopes cost just over $500. That’s why it is a popular choice for all shooters and hunters looking for a high-quality, versatile scope at around $500, a real value for money.
• It comes with an excellent optical lens coupled with proprietary XR Fully Multi-Coating, providing hunters and shooters with sharp and crystal clear images.

Cons

• It comes with a single reticle choice (VMR-2). There could have been more reticle choices.

Specifications

2. Leupold VX-6HD 1-6×24 Rifle Scope

Leupold VX-6HD 1-6×24 Rifle Scope is a versatile and multi-gun scope that helps you in all kinds of hunting and shooting scenarios, right from the open plains to the thick timber (close to mid-range). This scope comes with edge-to-edge clarity, amazing resolution, color consistency, and outstanding brightness, enabling you to dominate the hunting landscape during dawn and dusk. The wide 6x zoom ratio (1-6x magnification range) along with other features such as in-scope electronic reticle level, removable throw lever, and CDS-ZL2 Zero Lock elevation dial make this a leader in its class. It comes at a street price of around $1,000-1,500, making it a preferred choice for pro hunters and shooters.

Best for Use

Leupold VX-6HD 1-6×24 Scopes are best for:

• Dangerous game
• Mountain hunting, 
• 3-Gun shooting, and 
• All kinds of close-to-mid-range competition shooting

Highlights

• Leupold VX-6HD 1-6×24 Rifle Scopes come with Twilight Max HD Light Management System, enabling hunters and shooters to see more in less light. This innovative light management system provides premium high-definition (HD) edge-to-edge lens clarity, eliminates 90% more glare-producing stray light than its peers, and enables you to shoot or hunt 15-to-30 minutes extra when the sun is coming up or going down.
  
  The Twilight Max Light Management System combines both lens coatings and mechanical design features, thereby maximizing light transmission across the entire visible spectrum, reducing glare, and ultimately improving contrast. This advanced light management system maximizes two colors or wavelengths of light: blue and red.
  
  While the light’s blue color is most sensitive to the human eyes during low-light conditions, red color is most prevalent in typical hunting situations. As the Twilight Max Light Management System maximizes these two wavelengths of colors that we can most easily see, the hunters can have bright, crisp views during all shooting hours.

• VX-6HD 1-6×24 Scope line is available in three reticle choices: Firedot Circle, Firedot 4 Fine, and Firedot Duplex reticles. All these reticles are illuminated and come with FireDot technology, which helps to bring your eye to the reticle center, thereby helping in quick target acquisition. The firedot illumination creates a visible aiming point in low-light conditions.
  1. Firedot Circle (illuminated) reticle is specially designed for fast-moving targets and is best for hunting games such as pigs, turkeys, and dangerous games.
  2. Firedot 4 Fine (illuminated) reticle comes with a European influenced design, having thinner outer posts. Its upper field-of-view remains obstruction-free.
  3. Firedot Duplex (illuminated) reticle comes with a classic design and can be used for a wide array of shooting applications.

Both Firedot Circle and Firedot 4 Fine reticles feature Leupold’s proprietary Motion Sensor Technology (MST), which extends battery life by deactivating the illumination after 5-minutes of inactivity and reactivating instantly with any detection of movement.

• Leupold VX-6HD 1-6×24 Scopes come with a powerful 6:1 zoom ratio (1x to 6x magnification range), providing both hunters and shooters with excellent versatility in multiple environments. It is the top-of-the-line hunting scope for Leupold that is perfectly suited for the evolving needs of American hunters.

• Leupold has incorporated High-Definition lenses that are specifically designed to correct chromatic aberration and also enhance resolution. If you are a hunter, you can differentiate between a gray-brown deer from a brown-gray background, thereby providing you a clearer and more precise view of the target.

• VX-6HD scopes come with exposed, resettable, locking elevation and windage turrets, which are marked in .25-MOA increments. These turrets have a spring-loaded button on its circumference above the “0” mark. To unlock the dial and make adjustments, you have to push the button. The button automatically pops out for locking the dial when you return to the zero setting.
  
  The CDS Custom Dial System elevation dials are two-tiered. While the button remains flush with the dial edge on the first evolution, it retreats into its recess on the second dial. This smart and advanced CDS system provides you with an instant visual and tactile reminder of how much you have dialed so that you don’t confuse between a 6-MOA and a 26-MOA correction. The Custom Dial System makes it simple for you on the field. You can spot it, range it, dial, and shoot at the target. It’s that simple.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• The ultra-lightweight design of Leupold VX-6HD 1-6×24 Riflescopes makes it a preferred choice for most hunters, especially when the time comes to choose among the leaders in the category. This advanced design disperses recoil energy, providing the scopes with unrivaled durability and performance. Many pro hunters are also of the opinion that it is this ultra-lightweight design that made them choose this scope over other leaders in this category such as Vortex Razor HD Gen II 1-6×24 Scopes. While Vortex Razor HD Gen II 1-6×24 weighs 21.5 oz, Leupold VX-6HD 1-6×24 weighs just 13.4 oz.
• The lens quality is excellent and at par with the other leader in the 1-6×24 category, Vortex Razor HD Gen II 1-6×24. The incorporation of the Twilight Max HD Light Management System along with the advanced lens quality provides you with a clearer and more precise view of the target.
• Leupold VX-6HD 1-6×24 is a versatile riflescope that can be used by both hunters and competition shooters with the same efficiency and ease. Whether you are shooting in the forests, shooting in a CQC (Close Quarter Combat) style stage, 600-yard stage, or pounding it in the run, ruck, rain, and mud, VX-6HD 1-6×24 riflescopes enable you to deliver the best in all kinds of scenarios.

Cons

• There is no negative aspect noted.

Specifications

3. Sig Sauer TANGO6T 1-6×24 Scope

Sig Sauer TANGO6T 1-6×24 Riflescope is a military-standard scope that is now available for commercial use. You can use this rifle scope for extreme clarity and low-light performance, thanks to the HDX optical system.

Sig Sauer TANGO6T’s uncompromising quality had made the US Army to choose this scope for both the Squad Designated Marksman Rifle System and US Special Forces. Its sleek design has made it perfect for use with the most commonly used firearm platforms such as MSR/AR and bolt action platforms.

This riflescope features HellFire fiber optic, glass-etched illuminated reticles in either First or Second Focal Plane, LENSARMOR abrasion-resistant lens coatings, proprietary Mil-Spec oleophobic LENSHIELD coating, LockDown Zero System stop-locking turret, highly efficient, ultra-wide broadband, anti-reflection SPECTRACOAT lens coatings, and STEALTH ID electro-Optics industrial design.

Sig Sauer TANGO6T 1-6×24 Rifle Scope is guaranteed forever by an unlimited lifetime guarantee and the electronic components by Limited 5 Year Warranty. It is assembled completely in the Wilsonville (Oregon, USA) factory of Sig Sauer.

Best for Use

Sig Sauer TANGO6T 1-6×24 Rifle Scopes are best suited for:

• Military
• Law enforcement
• CQB
• Mid-range tactical engagements
• 3 Gun competitions
• Hunting

Highlights

• Sig Sauer has built this riflescope with 6x Super-Zoom Advanced Optical System, enabling the hunters, competitive shooters, and CQB shooters to hit targets at all ranges. 

• Sig Sauer TANGO6T 1-6×24 Scope provides you with industry-leading light transmission as well as optical clarity for all kinds of situations, thanks to HDX optics extra-low dispersion glass (ED) combined with high transmittance glass (HT).

• The TANGO6T series riflescopes provide shooters with a wide range of reticle choices, located in either First Focal Plane (FFP) or Second Focal Plane (SFP). These reticles come with Night Vision (NV) Illuminated reticle settings having locking illumination dial.
  
  The electronically illuminated HELLFIRE reticle system utilizes advanced fiber optic technology for varying the brightness level of the central aiming point from IR (InfraRed) dim to HellFire bright for daylight illumination. This system provides defined aiming-point so that you can make precise shot placement in all environmental and field conditions.

• Sig Sauer has provided these TANGO6T 1-6×24 Scopes with a stop-locking turret called the LockDown Zero System, which helps in rapid return to Zero. When you dial up elevation for an extended range shot, this LockDown Zero System eliminates your worry about how much to dial for returning the elevation adjustment to zero. When you use LockDown Zero System to quickly get back to zero, it ensures that the turret also locks at zero.

• Sig Sauer provides unlimited lifetime INFINITE GUARANTEE to its Electro-Optics. This warranty is fully transferable and it requires no warranty card, receipt, charge, and time-limit. The manufacturer has also provided Limited 5-Year Warranty (from the date of manufacture) for defects in all electronic components (either in the material or workmanship in the electronic and Tritium components of illuminated scopes).

Pros & Cons

Pros

• The best thing about this riflescope is that it comes with an excellent Japanese glass, which is second only to German glasses. This superior glass provides you with higher light transmission and clarity of image. Sig Sauer TANGO6T 1-6×24 Rifle Scope’s glass is equally good and competent as the Vortex Razor HD Gen II Riflescope line. TANGO6T’s glass is definitely better than that of either Vortex Viper PST Gen II Riflescopes or Vortex Strike Eagle. With true 1x magnification, edge-to-edge clarity, and good eye relief at high power, makes Sig Sauer TANGO6T 1-6×24 Riflescope a leading scope for engaging targets at CQB to 400 yards or more.
• The US Army always chooses the best product for its infantry. Sig Sauer, with its uncompromising quality, has maintained military standards and ultimately made it through the rigorous testing of the US department. The US Army has chosen TANGO6T for both the Squad Designated Marksman Rifle System and US Special Forces.
• TANGO6T 1-6×24 Riflescopes are a true value for money as it provides the robust performance oriented scope at an economical price point. It comes with an MSRP of around $1,689.99-1,819.99. However, you can buy it at a price of around $1,000 from the leading stores. Therefore, you can buy this superior-quality and military-standard scope at a price point that is significantly lower than many other similar quality scopes.

Cons

• There is hardly any negative aspect to point out in this Sig Sauer scope line.

Specifications

4. Vortex Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6×24 Scope

Vortex Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6×24 Riflescope line is the newer and enhanced (denoted by “E”) version over the original Razor HD Gen II 1-6×24 riflescope line. Vortex Optics has manufactured this scope as a tank to the on a 30 mm main tube (created from aircraft-grade aluminum) but with an ultra-sleek design. The manufacturer has incorporated a true 1x magnification at the lower end along with other helpful features such as ultra-forgiving eyebox and generous eye relief.

For a streamlined performance, the manufacturer has incorporated the scope with ultra-low profile, capped windage and elevation turrets. The accompanying turrets are zero-resettable and with a single turn you can make either 50 MOA or 20 MRAD of adjustment, thereby ensuring ample travel.

Best for Use

• Vortex Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6×24 scopes are the top notch optical solution for all kinds of tactical solutions from short range to medium range.

Highlights

• Vortex Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6×24 is around ¼ pounds lighter than the original Razor HD Gen II 1-6×24 scopes. Lighter weight is especially helpful because it creates less arm fatigue and also helps in quicker transitions between targets.

• You can use these scopes on almost all firearms, especially the AR platforms. It is perfect for use with the popular AR platform (AR-10, AR-15, and other AR pattern rifles).

• These riflescopes provide you with the highest level of optical clarity and resolution, edge-to-edge sharpness of image, and amazing color accuracy.

• Vortex Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6×24 Riflescopes come with multiple reticle options (JM-1 BDC, VMR-2 MOA, and VMR-2 MRAD) in the SFP (Second Focal Plane) setting, illuminated center dot, and locking illumination system.

• A true 1x magnification along with ultra-forgiving eyebox and generous eye relief help you get a heads-up-display-like sight picture. With daylight bright illuminated center dot in the reticle, this riflescope is perfect for extremely fast target acquisition in close quarters.

Pros & Cons

• Vortex has worked on its already amazing Razor HD Gen II 1-6×24 Riflescope line and now come up with an enhanced Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6×24 Riflescope line that is almost ¼ pounds lighter than the original. Therefore, tactical shooters can make quick transitions between targets. When you have to remain for longer hours on field, the lighter weight ensures that your arm suffers from less fatigue. 
• The Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticles are great for all types of tactical shooting, right from CQB to known distance work. 
• The reticle illumination is just perfect. It is neither too bright for the day nor too dim for low light situations. 
• The turret adjustments are crisp. As they come with large diameters, you can make accurate adjustments fast and easily. The caps on these turrets provide them external protection. The precision machined (to sub-2 micron tolerances) turret screws provide low-friction, wear-resistant performance. 
• Though this scope is built like a tank, it is very easy to calibrate and zero. 

Specifications

5. Kahles K16i 1-6×24 Scope

Kahles K16i 1-6×24 Scope is an ideal riflescope for very quick target acquisition in  all environments. It is manufactured to meet all kinds of shooter requirements including the toughest ones. 

That’s why it is one of the preferred LPVOs for the competition and tactical shooters. This scope line comes with an ultra-wide field of view, extra-high nose and the large, and easy to use adjustment ring. Kahles K16i 1-6×24 Riflescope comes with an extra bright day-illuminated reticle (3GR, SI1, and SM1) in the Second Focal Plane (SFP). 

Other important features include OILPHOBIC coated lenses, 30 mm main tube, clockwise adjustment, right side windage turret, parallax wheel integrated in the elevation turret, left side illumination turret, extremely lightweight (16.9 oz), and 0.1 MRAD click adjustment. Availability of 10-years warranty makes the deal perfect.

Best for Use

Kahles K16i 1-6×24 Riflescope is best for:

• Competition 
• Tactical shooters

Highlights

• Kahles K 16i riflescope line comes with an ultra-wide field-of-view of 42.3 – 6.7 m/100 m (138.8 – 26.2 ft./100 yd), enabling the competition and tactical shooters to have a look at a wider scene on the field per 100 yards or meters. Therefore, with Kahles K16i 1-6×24 Scope on your firearm, you are in a better position to keep a watch on the scene and consequently take a better and informed decision.

• Kahles K16i 1-6×24 comes with multiple reticle options in the Second Focal Plane (SFP), which is ideal for short-to-medium range shooting for the tactical and competition shooters.

These reticles come with daytime bright aimpoint and it is so bright that you can easily view light colored targets even in bright Texas summer sun.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Kahles K16i 1-6×24 Scope comes with a stunning glass having edge-to-edge clarity, incredible resolution, excellent color rendition, and an amazing contrast. Whether the target is at close range or at a distance of 400-500 yards, you can always take a clean shot.
• It is extremely lightweight, making it easier to carry on your firearm (as it puts minimum weights of just 16.9 oz). It creates least arm fatigue during long hours of competition or tactical operation. Being a lightweight scope, the shooters will find it easy to make quick transitions between targets. When compared with RAZOR HD GEN II-E 1-6X24, it is lighter by almost 5 oz. Kahles K16i 1-6×24 is one of the most lightweight LPVOs in the market currently.
• With a 95 mm eye relief and a tremendous eye box, you can always be ready to engage the target fast as the buzzer goes off with Kahles K16i 1-6×24 Riflescope. 

Cons

It comes at an MSRP of $1,999, which could be overwhelming for some of the shooters. However, it is a top-notch LPVO scope that you could bargain for. The extremely high optics quality, extreme lightweight design, 6x zoom factor, 1x true lower magnification, ultra-wide field-of-view, amazing reticle illumination, and multiple reticle design makes this scope one of the leading one in the LPVO section. If you are a pro competition/tactical shooter looking for a high-end, premium riflescope, Kahles K16i 1-6×24 Riflescope is a value for money.

Specifications

6. Nikon BLACK FORCE100 1-6×24 Rifle Scopes

Nikon BLACK FORCE100 1-6×24 Rifle Scope series is the true “next level” LPVO riflescope with a 1-6x optical system that enables users to shoot at a broader range of magnifications, right from close-quarters engagements to targets at extended ranges.

These versatile riflescopes come with new reticle design, increased ergonomics to MSR platform, distortion-free targeting with both eyes open at low power, one-piece 30mm main body tube, low profile, and capped turrets. Nikon BLACK FORCE100 1-6×24 Scopes are extremely durable rifle scopes and the shooters can sight with confidence under tough conditions.

Best for Use

Nikon BLACK FORCE100 1-6×24 Riflescopes are best for use with AR rifles and MSR platforms. This versatile, multi-purpose scope can be used over a broader range of magnifications, right from close-quarter engagements to targets at extended ranges.

Highlights

• Nikon BLACK FORCE100 1-6×24 Riflescope 16660 comes with a multi-function, glass-etched reticle and they call it FORCE-MOA reticle. This reticle has been specially designed for carrying out continuous momentum shooting from target to target, right from close to medium range targets.
  
  This multi-function reticle comes with an illuminated red center dot that acts as a quick reference for centering on the target when the scope is at the lowest 1x magnification. The best part is that you can center the target with both eyes open and it acts quite similar to a red dot sight.
  
  When you crank up the magnification level to 6x, the lower hash marks of the FORCE-MOA reticle provide hold-off points for wind and the holdover points for longer known ranges (determined by calculating with the help of ballistic table or app).
  
  FORCE-MOA is an illuminated reticle. There are 10 intensity levels of the red center dot’s illumination. You can quickly and easily adjust the illumination intensity level with the side-mounted control, which has an OFF switch between each step. The illumination will shut off automatically after 2-hours of non-operation.

Force MOA

• Nikon has manufactured BLACK FORCE100 1-6×24 scope with a single-piece 30 mm main body tube. This feature provides these riflescopes with extreme durability, sighting confidence under tough conditions, and minimum weight.

• Nikon BLACK FORCE100 Scopes have been incorporated with Low Profile Capped Turrets having single screw zero-reset. Nikon has provided this scope line with a low profile, ¼ MOA turrets that are protected by sturdy aluminum caps. These turrets also come with single-screw zero-reset, allowing fast zeroing of turret after sight-ins.

• The side-mounted illumination control is extremely helpful. There are 10 intensity levels of red illumination. Between each step, there is an OFF switch. With the help of this, you can make brightness adjustments to the reticle illumination easily and quickly. When not in use for 2-hours, the illumination will shut off automatically. 

• To help you get on target quickly, Nikon BLACK FORCE100 1-6×24 Rifle Scope has been incorporated with generous and consistent eye relief. To help the shooters with trouble-free rotation as well as rugged performance, Nikon has provided this scope series with aluminum quick focus eyepiece.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Nikon BLACK FORCE100 1-6×24 Rifle Scope is a versatile and multipurpose scope having a zooming range from a true 1x magnification to 6x magnification. 

• It comes at a price point just above $500, making this multipurpose riflescope a preferred one for most hunters and shooters, who like to use AR and MSR platforms.

Cons:

• There is hardly any negative aspect associated with this riflescope line. 

Specifications

7. Other Best LPVO 1-6x Scopes

Best 1-4x LPVO Scopes

1-4x rifle scopes are the new hotspot of the LPVO (low powered variable optics) segment. They have become a fad in the firearms world and are the most popular rifle scope segment currently. LPVO 1-4x riflescopes are compact and lighter weight scopes that are available at an overall affordable price. 

With the availability of a true 1x magnification, you can use these scopes with almost the same efficiency as that of the red dot sights. As LPVOs come with variable magnification, you can increase the magnification to engage targets at longer distances. You can use LPVO 1-4x scopes for all kinds of shooting genres including competition, hunting, and competition from 5 yards to 500 yards.  

Now, let’s take a closer look at the best 1-4x scopes in 2020 so that you can pick and choose the best as per your needs and preferences:

1. Trijicon Accupoint 1-4×24 Rifle Scopes

Trijicon AccuPoint 1-4×24 is a battery-free illuminated (thanks to the patented fiber optics and tritium) riflescope line that comes with a true 1x lower magnification, 4x zoom ratio (1x to 4x magnification), and varying reticle patterns in the Second Focal Plane (SFP). 

The varying illuminated reticles provide the big game safari hunters and competitive shooters the vivid aiming point to hit the target where he/she intends to. The battery-free illumination also makes the scope lighter than most of its contemporaries. The wide-array of reticles available are:

• Green Triangle Post Reticle
• Amber Triangle Post Reticle
• Red Triangle Post Reticle
• German #4 Crosshair w/ Amber Dot
• German #4 Crosshair w/ Green Dot
• Duplex Crosshair w/ Amber Dot
• Standard Duplex Crosshair w/ Green Dot 

Trijicon AccuPoint 1-4×24 Riflescopes feature “BOTH-EYES-OPEN” fast shooting feature, ruggedized design engineered to withstand extreme conditions, crisp, precise, windage/elevation, generous windage & elevation adjustment, edge-to-edge clarity, and most importantly the legendary ruggedness of Trijicon brand.

Best for Use

Trijicon AccuPoint 1-4×24 Scopes are best for:

• Big game safari hunters 
• Competitive shooters (especially 3 Gun competition shooting)

Hunters and shooters can use it with all kinds of rifles including the large caliber rifles and the 5.56 cartridges. The longer eye relief and ultra strong built makes it ideal to protect against high-impact recoil.

Highlights

• Trijicon has incorporated AccuPoint 1-4×24 with their patented tritium/fiber optic illumination technology that illuminates the reticle without using a battery and automatically adjusts itself to the lighting conditions.

• Trijicon AccuPoint 1-4×24 comes with a “both-eyes-open” shooting facility. This scopeline has illuminated reticles that provide a clear aiming point, drawing the shooter’s eye towards the center for fast target engagement. This patented illuminated aiming point helps in getting the work done in both hunting and competition shooting in the shorter distances.

• Trijicon Accupoint 1-4×24 Scopeline comes with multiple reticle designs and illumination colors.

Pros & Cons

• AccuPoint 1-4×24 is a lightweight scope. It weighs just 14.4 oz. (408.23g). It has been possible because they have made this scope battery-free and instead used their patented tritium/fiber optic illumination technology for reticle illumination.

• Trijicon has incorporated illuminated reticles (no matter which reticle you choose, they come with green, red, or amber illumination color) having clear aiming point. It draws the shooter’s eye towards the center, helping in fast target engagement. The best part is that you can engage targets with both eyes open. The proven reticle design ensures fast ranging and holdovers, which is best for most of the discerning hunters.
  
  

  No matter whether you are a hunter or competition shooter, you’ll find the patented illuminated aiming point at Trijicon AccuPoint 1-4×24 helpful because of “both-eyes-open” shooting facility and fast target engagement ability.

• Trijicon Accupoint Riflescopes come with excellent optics that are fully multi-coated. The broadband, anti-reflective glass are fully multi-coated, thereby providing excellent light transmission, zero distortion, and true detail & color.

Specifications

2. Steiner P4Xi 1-4x Rifle Scopes

Steiner P4Xi 1-4x Rifle Scopes are one of the leading versatile scopes available in the market currently, which comes with a 4x zoom and a true 1x magnification. The tactical shooters can use this scope efficiently for close-quarters engagements with 1x magnification or crank up the magnification to maximum 4x to hit targets at 400 yards.It comes with high-contrast optics that helps shooters hit targets even under poor light conditions. Steiner P4Xi 1-4x has won the NRA’s Shooting Illustrated Optic of the Year for 2018. It is one of the first choices for both patrol rifles and AR platforms. The best aspect of this riflescope is that you can use it in the darkest conditions around.

Best for Use

Steiner P4Xi 1-4x Scopes are best for: 

• Tactical community
• Law enforcement applications
• Self-defense
• Competition shooting, especially 3-gun-type competitions
• Use with patrol rifles
• Use with popular AR platforms

Highlights

• Steiner has incorporated P3TR reticle with P4Xi 1-4x riflescope. It is essentially a BDC reticle that has been calibrated for use with 5.56 and 7.62 NATO ammo. It has stadia lines for four distinct ranges: for 200 yard, 300 yard, 400 yard, and 500 yard distances.
  
  This illuminated reticle has 11 varying brightness levels, which includes 5 daytime settings, 4 low-light settings, and 2 night-time settings. Between each setting, there is an “off” position, which prevents draining of battery.
  
  The P3TR reticle layout helps shooters to range targets that are up to 600 yards away from the gun. This reticle layout enables you to have more control over shots. The illuminated center is hugely helpful in bringing the shooter’s eye quickly on the bullseye. The illumination is not so bright that it obscures the bullseye itself.

• Steiner P4Xi 1-4x Scope comes with low-profile turrets as well as illumination controls. This is especially helpful when you are moving because the chances of snagging or hanging up is at a minimum.

• This riflescope comes with the legendary, high-quality German optics that gives you more control on each shot you take. The multi-coated lens takes in enough light so that you get a bright, edge-to-edge, and clear image of the target. The multiple material coating also provides the image with added contrast so that you can distinguish the target from its surroundings clearly. When using this scope, you don’t have to worry about the risk of glare.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Steiner P4Xi 1-4x Riflescope has a better glass and build quality than many of its peers such as that of Vortex Viper scopes and Primary Arms. The quality of the scope can be compared with that of Vortex Razor HD Gen II scope. 

• The P3TR BDC reticle with a daylight bright led center dot is highly usable, no matter whether you are hitting targets at shorter range or longer range. The 11 brightness levels (5 day/4 low Light/2 NV levels) gives you more options to set the brightness as per the lighting condition. 

• The consistent eye relief with a generous eye box across the magnification range and wide field-of-view gives the shooter an added advantage throughout the entire magnification range. 

Cons:

No negative aspect noticed in this scope.

Specifications

3. Elcan SpecterDR 1x/4x Rifle Scopes

ELCAN SpecterDR 4x/1x Dual Role Optical Sight is the world’s first truly dual field-of-view (DFOV) combat scope, which is perfect for medium-range to CQB engagements for modern professional use. With the help of a throw lever, you can switch the sight from a 1x CQB sight to a 4x magnified sight instantly. 

This sight is different from other zoom sights. Elcan SpecterDR 1x/4x Rifle Scopes come with an optimized optical path as well as an identical eye relief in both the magnification modes: 1x and 4x. 

ELCAN SpecterDR Dual Role Optical Sights are the preferred choice for the elite Special Operations Missions of USSOCOM. These dual role rifle sights are deadly accurate, amazingly bright, and highly reliable.

If you are looking for the best LPVO for CQB engagements and medium range shooting at a price around $2,000, buy this high-quality, dual role optics: Elcan SpecterDR 1x/4x Rifle Scopes. It is definitely the best LPVO in the premium category.

Best for Use

ELCAN SpecterDR 4x/1x Dual Role Optical Sight is best for:

• Military
• Law Enforcement
• Tactical shooting
• Competition Shooting

Highlights

• ELCAN SpecterDR 4x / 1x Riflescope comes with an enormous field-of-view at both magnifications. The field-of-view at 1x magnification is 48.8 m @ 100 m (146.3 ft @ 100 yds) and at 4x magnification is 11.4 m @ 100 m (34.2 ft @ 100 yds). The best part is that you can change the magnification with a throw lever easily & instantly and accordingly get the desired FoV.

• ELCAN SpecterDR 4x / 1x Dual Role Optical Sight comes with a legendary crystal clear image, offering you the clearest scope image in the scoping industry.

• SpecterDR 4x / 1x is available with 2 reticles: CX5395 and CX5396.
  • CX5395 reticle is meant either for 5.56 carbine (100-600 m) or 5.56mm LMG (700-1000 m)
  • CX5396 reticle is meant either for 7.62 rifle (100-600 m) or 7.62mm LMG (700-1000 m)

Pros & Cons

Pros

• The Dual Role Optical system is the greatest aspect of ELCAN SpecterDR 4x / 1x riflescope. With the simple throw of a lever, you can instantly switch from a 4x magnified sight to a 1x CQB sight. The unique aspect of this sight is that both of its magnification modes (1x and 4x) have an optimized optical path and identical eye relief. Therefore, with the ELCAN SpecterDR 4x / 1x Sight, you are getting a scope of twice the capability but at half the weight. In fact, it also does away with the need of carrying two scopes and changing it on the field.

• The professional shooters will enjoy the legendary crystal clear image of ELCAN SpecterDR 4x/1x Dual Role Optical Sight. This optical system provides you with generous field-of-view and long eye-relief. The optical clarity can be compared with that of Trijicon ACOG scopes.

• SpecterDR 4x/1x Sight is just 6 inches (155 mm) long. This short profile makes it perfect for using it with a short barreled rifle. 

Cons

A $2,000 price for an LPVO is too high a price. However, the features loaded in this scope and the benefits that it brings in makes the scope a value proposal. 

Specifications

4. Trijicon Credo 1-4×24 Rifle Scopes

Trijicon Credo 1-4×24 Rifle Scopes are versatile low-power variable riflescopes (LPVOs) that feature low-power variable riflescope, 4x zoom, extra-wide field of view, and multiple reticle choices (including specialized BDC Segmented Circle reticle for CQB applications) in the Second Focal Plane (SFP) setting. 

The available SFP reticles with Trijicon Credo 1-4×24 Riflescopes are:

• Red MRAD Ranging
• Green MRAD Ranging
• Red BDC Segmented Circle .223 / 55gr
• Green BDC Segmented Circle .223 / 55gr

Best for Use

Trijicon Credo 1-4×24 Scopes are best for:

• CQB applications (especially when you choose either Red BDC Segmented Circle .223 / 55gr or Green BDC Segmented Circle .223 / 55gr reticle)
• 3-gun match or other competition shooting
• Punching paper on a range day

Highlights

• Credo 1-4×24 Riflescopes come with ruggedized design, making the scope ultra-durable. The rugged design (tested to military standards and protocols) helps Trijicon Credo withstand extreme conditions, ensuring extreme reliability.

• Trijicon has incorporated the Credo line of scopes with fully multi-coated, broadband, anti-reflective glass, providing excellent light transmission, vivid color, true detail, zero distortion, and most importantly edge-to-edge clarity.

• Trijicon Credo 1-4×24 Rifle Scopes come with extra-wide field-of-view, which provides the operators to have maximum situational awareness. It helps in fast scanning, detection, and tracking.

• These scopes are available with multiple reticle choices (with varied design and reticle illumination color) in the Second Focal Plane (SFP) setting. These specially engineered reticle designs help shooters with fast ranging and holdovers.
  
  You can adjust the brightness of the reticle illumination (user-adjustable) as per your requirement and lighting conditions. In between each illumination brightness setting, there is an “off” setting so that you can adapt to any environment.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Credo 1-4×24 Scope’s greatest strength is its glass, edge-to-edge clarity, and overall quality, which is available at an economical price of around $650. 

• It weighs just 17.1 oz (484.78g), helping you to move easily with your firearm system during competition shooting. 

• Trijicon Credo 1-4×24 Scopes come with illuminated reticles, providing the shooters with a clear aiming point, which draws the shooters’ eye to the center for fast target engagement. This feature helps in “Both Eyes Open” shooting. 

Cons:

• No negative aspects found in this scope.

Specifications

5. Sig Sauer TANGO4 1-4x Rifle Scopes

Sig Sauer TANGO4 1-4x Riflescopes are one of the most popular scoping solutions for mid-to-long-range shooting around $500. This scope comes with first-focal plane design, 4:1 zoom (1x to 4x magnification), a 30 mm main tube, illuminated glass reticles, MOTAC (Motion Activated Illumination), SBT (SIG Ballistic Turret) custom-lasered elevation dial, abrasion-resistant LENSARMOR lens coatings, LockDown Zero System (a stop-locking turret with rapid return to Zero), highly efficient, ultra-wide broadband, anti-reflection SPECTRACOAT lens coatings, and many more.

TANGO4 1-4x Scopes are available with 3 reticle choices:

1. 5.56/7.62 Horseshoe Dot
2. 300 Blackout Horseshoe Dot
3. MOA Milling / MRAD Milling

Best for Use

Sig Sauer TANGO4 1-4x Rifle Scopes are best for:

• Tactical engagements
• Designated marksmen
• Hunting
• 3 Gun competitions

Highlights

• TANGO4 1-4x Scopes come with LENSARMOR lens coatings that are abrasion-resistant. This coating provides extreme durability and helps the lens to remain sharp, bright, and clear.

• There are 3 reticle options to choose from and all of them are illuminated ones placed at First Focal Plane (FFP).

• Sig Sauer has provided these TANGO4 1-4×24 Scopes with a stop-locking turret called the LockDown Zero System, which helps in rapid return to Zero. When you dial up elevation for an extended range shot, this LockDown Zero System eliminates your worry about how much to dial for returning the elevation adjustment to zero. When you use LockDown Zero System to quickly get back to zero, it ensures that the turret also locks at zero. 

• Sig Sauer TANGO4 1-4x Riflescopes come with MOTAC motion sensing technology that powers up illumination when it senses motion. It powers down when it senses no motion, thereby extending the battery life.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Sig Sauer TANGO4 1-4x Scope is a really good scope in the First Focal Plane (FFP) setting that is available at a reasonable price. A good quality FFP scope at economical price is very rare in the market and that’s what Sig Sauer has been successful in providing. 

• It has a sturdy construction, which keeps the scope ready all the time, especially during demanding situations and when you need it most. 

• Sig Sauer has incorporated these riflescopes with large and tactile turrets (with fairly sharp and positive clicks) so that the tactical/competition shooters and hunters can make precise adjustments fast and easy.

• Sig Sauer TANGO4 1-4x Riflescope comes with a super clear edge-to-edge lens.

• The unlimited lifetime Infinite Guarantee is a great feature, which you can’t find with many scopes. This means that your Sig Sauer electro-optics is guaranteed forever. 

Cons:

• It doesn’t come with a true 1x. However, it is still reliable at close quarter combat situations. 

Specifications

6. Vortex Crossfire II 1-4×24 Rifle Scopes

Vortex Crossfire II 1-4×24 Rifle Scope is an incredibly versatile scope that is available at an affordable price of around $200. You can mount it on your AR and shoot easily and efficiently, especially if you are hitting targets in the 0-200 yards range. Crossfire II 1-4×24 scope comes with exceptionally clear fully multi-coated optics and superior build quality, enhancing your shooting experience without putting stress on your purse. It is a very lightweight scope, making it easier for you to use it conveniently at competition and stalking hunts. 

Vortex Crossfire II 1-4×24 Riflescope V-Brite MOA CF2-31037 features 30 mm single-piece main tube (constructed from a solid block of aircraft-grade aluminum), highly durable hard-coat anodized finish, quick and easy reticle focusing Fast Focus Eyepiece, fully multi-coated lens, capped reset turrets, and V-Brite (MOA) reticle in the Second Focal Plane (SFP).

Best for Use

Vortex Crossfire II 1-4×24 Scope is a versatile rifle scope that is ideal for:

• Hunting (including varmint hunting)
• Target shooting at intermediate ranges (short-to-medium range)
• Self Defense
• CQB purposes
• 3 Gun competition

It can be best used with:

• All kinds of AR including AR-10s and AR-15s
• All set-ups up to .50 BMG
• MSR platforms
• PSAK-47 (use a side-mount using a picatinny rail on top, 30mm rings for mounting the scope on the side mount)

Highlights

• Vortex Optics has manufactured this scope from a single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum, providing robustness, strength, and shock proofing. That’s why it is capable of handling almost any rifle up to .50 BMG. Whether you are using ARs, MSR platform, or PSAK-47, you can use Crossfire II 1-4×24 Riflescope with almost all of them. In fact, you can use it with SCAR too. In that case, if your scope runs into any issue, then it is covered by VIP Warranty of Vortex.

• The scope is nitrogen purged and sealed with O-ring, ensuring waterproof and fog-proof performance all along.

• Vortex Crossfire II 1-4×24 Rifle Scope comes with a simple but effective reticle:

• This scope is very lightweight. It weighs just 14.8 oz, making it perfect for use in almost all hunting expeditions, especially the competition and stalking hunts that require the shooter/hunter to move. 

• Crossfire II 1-4×24 riflescopes come with Capped Reset Turrets. While these turrets allow you to quickly re-index for zeroing, caps provide external protection for turret (so that the adjustments don’t accidentally change on the field).

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• The value for money is the real winner in this scope. It is available at around $200 and it is highly effective in almost all hunting and target-shooting up to 200 yards, making it an ideal scope in this price range.

• The illuminated V-Brite reticle is simple but effective with the red dot easily visible.

• The fully multi-coated lens is clear and you can enjoy edge-to-edge clarity.

• The build, fit, and finish of Vortex Crossfire II 1-4×24 Riflescope is good and can accompany almost any rifle, especially all ARs. It is capable of withstanding recoils up to .50 BMG.

• It is easy to zero. 

Cons:

• Considering the price-range, no negative aspects are found in this scope. You may find issues with images at highest magnification or crave for better light transmission especially in low light conditions. However, considering the $200 price range, the quality seems good. It is an overall good scope at an affordable price.

Specifications

7. Other Best LPVO 1-4x Scopes

FAQs on LPVOs (Low Power Variable Optics) 

Here are the top 15 Frequently Asked Question (FAQs) on LPVOs (Low Power Variable Optics):

FAQ #1: What is an LPVO?

LPVO is the abbreviation for Low Power Variable Optic. These riflescopes are quickly gaining popularity among the hunters and shooters using the AR-15 rifles. LPVOs (Low Power Variable Optics) are those riflescopes whose lower magnification starts with either 1x or close to it (say, 1.5x). They are generally available in multifarious zoom ranges: 4x (1-4x magnification), 6x (1-6x magnification), 8x (1-8x magnification), and 10x (1-10x magnification).

With their rising popularity among the sports/tactical/recreational shooters and hunters (especially using the AR-style rifles or other popular semi-auto carbines), almost all scope manufacturers have at least one or many LPVOs in their stable. Low Power Variable Optics vary significantly in terms of price, quality, and performance. You can also check the 140+ Best AR 15 Scopes in 2020 for more LPVOs and other variable power optics.

FAQs #2: Who Should Buy LPVOs?

A low power variable optic (LPVO) is the most viable solution to most of the practical shooting purposes. Depending upon the zoom range (4x, 6x, 8x, or 10x) you are choosing, you can hit any target from low range (including point-blank range and close-range moving targets), mid-range engagements, to long-range. LPVOs enhance capability of “Do-it-all” weapons, right from door-kicking to downrange.

LPVOs have become so popular because of the growing world of 3-gun competition, thereby creating a new market for low variable power scopes. LPVOs provide hunters and shooters an edge that bigger scopes don’t.

Low Power variable Optics (LPVOs) can be used by:

• Sports shooters, especially 3-Gun Competition
• Recreational shooters
• Hunting community
• Law enforcement
• Military

LPVOs are best for use with:

• AR-style rifles (especially AR-15s)
• Tactical carbines

FAQ #3 Is an LPVO right for you? Which is better: LPVO or Red Dot?

You can choose an LPVO as per your need of identifying targets at designated ranges. Most of the LPVO applications vary within 300-400 yards, for which an 1-4x or 1-6x LPVO is enough. If you are looking for identifying targets at 800 yards, either choose a scope with 1-8x or 1-10x magnification range.

In case, you want to shoot fast and your target identification range is solely limited to within 75-100 yards, you can go for non-magnifying red dots or holographic sights. Whether it is close-up, fast-action shooting or hitting targets with precision at mid-range distances (500-800 yards), nothing can do better than an LPVO. 

FAQ #4 What to look for in an LPVO?

There are many low power variable optics (LPVOs) available in the market. While some are expensive, others are either affordable or economical. Though the buying decision depends upon the preferences of the hunter/shooter, there are certain aspects that you should look for in an LPVO. 

Some of the aspects to look for in an LPVO are true 1x magnification, the magnification range (1-4x, 1-6x, 1-8x, or 1-10x), FFP or SFP reticle, and usage/application. While choosing an LPVO, check the availability of true 1x magnification, “nuclear” bright reticle illumination, the appropriate magnification range, the focal plane (FFP or SFP), and budget (affordable, economical, mid-range, or premium). 

True 1x Magnification

A true 1x magnification provides a hunter or shooter with speed. No one looks for a true 1x magnification for precision. It provides them with a large exit pupil, wide field of view, low distortion, and an aiming point that is very easy to pick up. 

While choosing an LPVO with a good performing 1x, you’ll find that good quality true 1x scopes are more prevalent in 1-4x category than 1-8x or 1-10x categories. If you’re looking for a versatile scope that can do everything from point-blank range to medium-to-long-range, try to shell out some more money and get the best 1-8x or 1-10x scopes available in the market. 

Reticle Illumination

While choosing a Low Power Variable Optic (LPVO), try to get one having “nuclear” bright reticle illumination. It will definitely cost you more money. Always keep in mind that there is a significant difference between reticle illumination that stands out during the day and reticle illumination that you can see during the day. So, balance your priorities accordingly. 

Choice of Magnification Matters

You must be absolutely sure about your need for magnification. Ask yourself at which range do you need to identify targets with the LPVO you are going to buy – is it a more regular 300-400 yards or 800 yards? 

1. An example will help you make the right choice. If your target identification need is inside of 300-400 yards, you can choose riflescopes such as:

• Steiner P4XI 1-4X24 / Trijicon AccuPoint 1-4×24 / Trijicon Credo 1-4×24 ($700-800)
• Sig Sauer TANGO4 1-4×24 ($500)

These scopes will provide you with true 1x magnification, great view throughout the magnification range, and bright reticle illumination at 1x (that can stand out during the day). The best thing is that these scopes are available at an economical price-range of $500-800. 

2. If you really need a scope to identify targets at around 800 yards, try to spend some money to experience the best. Some of the best options (as per budget) you can get your hands on are:

• Schmidt Bender 1-8×24 PM II ShortDot (around $4,000) 
• Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 F1 / Swarovski Z8i 1-8×24 / Schmidt Bender Exos 1-8×24 (around $2,500-2,800)
• Nightforce NX8 1-8×24 F1 / Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10×24 / March Compact 1-10×24 ( $1,500-2,000)
• Burris Xtreme Tactical II 1-8X-24 / EOTech Vudu 1-8×24 ($1,000-1,200)
• Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 / Sightmark Citadel 1-10×24 (around $400)

3. FFP or SFP

LPVOs up to 1-6x work well with both First Focal Plane (FFP) and Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticles as long as they are designed and implemented well. 

• In FFP scopes, reticles appear to be growing or shrinking with increase or decrease of magnification. FFP scopes come handy especially when you are shooting or hunting at longer ranges, especially for both trajectory compensation and POI correction.

• In case of SFP scopes, the reticles look the same throughout the entire magnification range with increase or decrease of magnification. No matter whether the image details get bigger or smaller, the reticle size appears to remain the same. In Second Focal Plane riflescopes, reticle subtensions only remain accurate at one magnification, which is almost always the maximum magnification (4x in 1-4x range, 6x in 1-6x range, etc.).

In the real world of shooting, most hunters and shooters use LPVOs at extreme magnifications, either at 1x or at maximum magnification (4x, 6x, 8x, or 10x magnification). 

• If your need for the LPVO is limited to short to medium range target identification/shooting, you’ll get more value of your money if you buy a Second Focal Plane scope. 

• In case, your requirement of the scope varies throughout 1x to 8x/10x magnification range (especially long-range shots), you can go for FFP scopes as it will help provide you with both trajectory compensation and point-of-impact correction.

Therefore, always look for the above mentioned aspects and titrate them with your preferred budget and requirements/preferences before buying LPVOs.

FAQ #5 How far can you shoot with a 1×6 Scope?

With a 1×6 LPVO scope, you can hit a big game at around 1,000 yards, considering the aiming error to be less than ½ MOA. 

FAQ #6 How far can you shoot with a 1×4 Scope?

An LPVO of 1-4x magnification range will allow you to hit a  target fast and accurately up to around 300 yards or so. In fact, you can bring down large game (including deers or larger animals) during hunting or hit targets at informal target shooting from around 25 yards to 400 yards. If you want to hunt small animals (such as antelope) at long distances, you may need a bit more magnification. 

FAQ #7 Fixed or Variable Scopes: Which one should you choose?

Both fixed and variable scopes have their own advantages and disadvantages. Whether you choose one over the other depends upon your need. 

Fixed Riflescopes

Fixed riflescopes come with fixed magnification such as Leupold FX-II Scout 2.5x28mm (magnification fixed at 2.5x), Trijicon ACOG 6×48 (magnification fixed at 6x), etc. 

Pros

• These are highly reliable riflescopes.

• The greatest advantage of the fixed scopes is that it provides a brighter and clearer view. This is because there are no different lenses for the light to be emitted through the riflescope.

Cons

• The greatest disadvantage is that with a fixed riflescope you won’t be able to change the power when required. Suppose, you need to change the magnification to get a better view of a target on a hunting expedition or tactical application. You won’t be able to do it with a fixed scope.

Variable Scopes

Variable scopes come with variable magnification ranges such as 1-4x, 1-6x, 4.5-27x, 6-24x, and others. 

Pros

• It is a real sense versatile riflescope that allows a hunter or shooter to turn down magnification for shorter distance applications and turn up for longer range applications.

• You have complete control on the field (especially helpful for hunters) as the hunter/shooter can adjust the focus with the target moving closer or farther away.

Cons

• Variable scopes don’t provide the same level of optical clarity as the fixed scopes.

Some of the popular and high quality variable power riflescopes are:

1. Trijicon Credo 1-4x24mm (1-4x magnification range)
2. Meopta Optika6 1-6x24mm (1-6x magnification range)
3. Sig Sauer TANGO6T 1-6x24mm (1-6x magnification range)
4. EOTech Vudu 1-8x24mm (1-8x magnification range)
5. March Compact Tactical 1-10×24 (1-10x magnification range)
6. Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10x24mm (1-10x magnification range)
7. Elcan SpecterDR Scope 1.5x/6x (1.5x and 6x magnifications)
8. Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x50mm (3.5-10x magnification range)
9. Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27x56mm (4.5-27x magnification range)
10. Nightforce NXS 5.5-22x56mm (5.5-22x magnification range)
11. Zeiss CONQUEST V4 6-24x50mm (6-24x magnification range)

Now, that you know the pros and cons of both variable and fixed scopes, you can choose the one that suits your needs best. 

FAQ #8 What magnification should I use at 100 yards?

At 100 yards, you can view a target with your naked eye. Whether you are hitting a barn door or a bullet hole at 100 yards, you can do that without any magnification. If you are looking for a scope to hit targets (including bullet holes) at 100 yards, you would need a good optics and an appropriate size aiming point for precision shot. While some use iron sights to hit targets at 100 yards, others may look out for scopes having 1-4x, 2-10x, 3-9x, 4-12x, or 3.5-10x magnifications. 

Some of the scopes you may buy for hitting targets at 100 yards are:

1. Trijicon AccuPoint 1-6x24mm (1-6x magnification range)
2. Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm (1-8x magnification range)
3. Nikon P-TACTICAL 1.5-4.5x20mm (1.5-4.5x magnification range)
4. Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm (2-7x magnification range)
5. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm (3-9x magnification range)
6. Leupold VX-R 4-12x40mm (4-12x magnification range)
7. Bushnell Elite Tactical XRS-II 4.5-30x50mm (4.5-30x magnification range)

FAQ #9 What magnification do I need for 200 yards?

If you want to hit targets at around 200 yards, you can choose a fixed power riflescope having fixed magnification of 3x, 4x, 5x, 6x, or 7x. In case, you want a variable-power riflescope, you can go for a 3-9x magnification range scope for hitting targets at 200 yards. 

Some of the scopes you may buy for hitting targets at 200 yards are:

1. Trijicon AccuPoint 2.5-10x56mm (2.5-10x magnification range)
2. Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40mm (3-9x magnification range)
3. Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm (3.5-10x magnification range)
4. Trijicon ACOG 4x32mm (4x fixed magnification)

FAQ #10 What magnification do I need for 300 yards?

The least magnification that provides you with a clear image is considered as the best magnification at a certain distance. The magnification that provides a clear image at 300 yards is generally 4x. 

A scope having 4x magnification (either 4x fixed scope or 4x magnification in a variable scope) will be perfect for you to take a clean shot at 300 yards, especially in case of big game hunting. If you are hunting varmints or other smaller animals such as prairie dogs and squirrels, you may need more magnification, say 6x. 

Some of the scopes you may buy for hitting targets at 300 yards are:

1. Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x50mm
2. Vortex Crossfire II 4-12x50mm AO
3. Vortex Diamondback 1.75-5x32mm
4. Swarovski Z8i SR 1-8x24mm
5. Kahles K18i 1-8x24mm
6. Sightmark Citadel 1-10x24mm
7. EOTech Vudu 1-8x24mm

FAQ #11 What magnification do I need to shoot 400 yards?

A riflescope having magnification anything from 4x to 6x will be enough for you to make precise shots at 400 yards. If you follow a thumb rule, it will be easier for you to know which magnification will serve good for hitting targets at what distance. For each 100 yards, 1x to 1.5x magnification is more than enough. 

Some of the scopes you may buy for hitting targets at 400 yards are:

1. Vortex Viper PST 6-24x50mm
2. Leupold VX-6HD 4-24x52mm
3. Nightforce NX8 2.5-20x50mm
4. Schmidt Bender PMII 5-25x56mm
5. Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27×56
6. Steiner T5Xi 5-25x56mm
7. Leica PRS 5-30x56mm
8. Bushnell Nitro 4-16x44mm
9. Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm
10. Zeiss CONQUEST V4 3-12x56mm
11. Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10x24mm

FAQ #12 What magnification do I need to shoot 500 yards?

To hit a target at 5x, the bare minimum magnification needed is 5x. You may need a higher magnification for a clear view of the target if you are targeting a smaller target, say a smaller animal or bullet hole targets. For most shots, you will find 5x magnification insufficient. Experts recommend 10x magnification for taking a good shot.

Some of the scopes you may buy for hitting targets at 500 yards are:

1. Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10x24mm
2. Sightmark Citadel 1-10x24mm
3. Steiner M8Xi 
4. Schmidt Bender PM II 1-8×24 ShortDot
5. Swarovski Z8i SR 1-8x24mm
6. Nightforce NX8 1-8x24mm
7. EOTech Vudu 1-8x24mm
8. Kahles K18i 1-8x24i
9. Carl Zeiss Optronics Hensoldt ZF 6-24x72mm
10. Kahles K318i 3.5-18x50mm
11. Sightmark Latitude 10-40x60mm
12. Hensoldt ZF 3.5-26x56mm
13. Kahles K525i 5-25x56mm
14. March X High Master 10-60x56mm
15. US Optics FDN FX10 10x40mm
16. Trijicon ACOG 6x48mm

FAQ #13 What kind of scope do I need for 1000 yards?

The answer varies as the choice for a tactical shooter differentiates from that of a benchrest shooter and other applications. The minimum magnification usually required for hitting a 1.5-2.0 MOA target at 1,000 yards is 10x. In such a case, you can choose any scope, even if it is a cheap one (having an average glass and target size). If you choose a 10x fixed-power riflescope (of any glass quality), you can easily hit a target of 1.5-2.0 MOA size or any average-sized target. 

However, in the case of the military (such as the US Marine Corps), 10x magnification is not enough to hit a target at 1,000 yards distance. This is because they are not hitting clearly visible white/black plates of steel but targets that are either wearing camouflage or trying to hide in their environment. Therefore, a 16x fixed power riflescope will be good. 

Though 16x magnification may be great for hitting targets at longer ranges (especially around 1,000 yards in challenging environmental and field conditions), be prepared to fight mirage. Even if it is not hot outside, you can still get a mirage simply from the temperature differential between ground and air. So, make your choice carefully.

In case, you have to reduce magnification while shooting, a 16x or even a 10x magnification will not be a good choice. In that case, try choosing a 4-16x variable-power scope or higher (such as 5-25x, 6-24x, 2-16x, 1-10x, 5.5-22x, and others). 

While choosing a high-magnification variable-power riflescope, always avoid a low-cost one. While choosing a high-magnification, variable-power scope, don’t let the scope define the mission and instead define the mission first before choosing the riflescope or other shooting equipment. 

Some of the scopes you may buy for hitting targets at 1,000 yards are:

1. Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm
2. Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27x56mm
3. Steiner T5Xi 5-25x56mm
4. Schmidt Bender PMII 5-25x56mm
5. Trijicon AccuPoint 5-20x50mm
6. Vortex Viper HST 6-24×50mm
7. Nightforce NX8 2.5-20x50mm
8. Schmidt Bender PMII 10×42
9. Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm
10. Nightforce NXS 5.5-22×56mm
11. Swarovski Z8i 3.5-28x50mm
12. Trijicon AccuPower 4-16x50mm
13. Leupold VX-6 7-42X56mm
14. Nightforce SHV 5-20x56mm
15. EOTech Vudu 3.5-18x50mm
16. Zeiss Victory V8 4.8-35x60mm
17. Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10x24mm
18. Sightmark Citadel 1-10x24mm
19. Trijicon Tenmile 5-50x56mm
20. Sig Sauer WHISKEY5 3-15x52mm
21. Kahles K318i 3.5-18x50mm
22. Meopta Optika6 4.5-27x50mm
23. Leica PRS 5-30×56 i Scope
24. Burris Xtreme Tactical XTR II 5-25x50mm
25. Bushnell Elite Tactical XRS-II 4.5-30x50mm 

FAQ #14 Does a 1x scope magnify?

A 1x scope magnifies or not depends upon the fact whether you are using a fixed power scope, variable power scope, or red dot sight. If you are using a fixed power riflescope or a red dot then it will not magnify. In case, you are using a Low Power Variable Optic (LPVO) then it can magnify from 1x to 4x, 6x, 8x, or 10x, depending upon the scope they are choosing. In fact, you can use a red dot scope along with a magnifier (of 2x, or 3x, or other available) to view targets beyond 100 yards. 

Here are some of the LPVOs that magnify beyond 1x:

1. Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10x24mm
2. Sightmark Citadel 1-10x24mm
3. March Compact 1-10x24mm
4. Nightforce ATACR 1-8x24mm
5. Burris XTR II 1-8X24mm
6. Trijicon Credo HX 1-8x28mm
7. Schmidt Bender Exos 1-8x24mm
8. US Optics TS-8X 1-8x24mm
9. Crimson Trace Optics 5 Series Tactical Riflescope 1-8x28mm
10. Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm
11. Nightforce NX8 1-8x24mm
12. Leupold Mark 6 1-6x20mm
13. Zeiss Conquest V6 1-6x24mm
14. Meopta MeoPro Optika6 1-6x24mm
15. US Optics 1-6x24mm
16. Trijicon VCOG 1-6x24mm
17. Vortex Razor HD Gen II 1-6x24mm
18. Burris MTAC 1-6x24mm
19. Swarovski Z6i 1-6x24mm
20. Leica Amplus 6 1-6x24i
21. Steiner M6Xi 1-6x24mm
22. Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6x24mm
23. Trijicon Credo 1-4x24mm
24. Schmidt Bender Zenith 1.1-4×24
25. Trijicon AccuPoint 1-4x24mm
26. Burris MTAC 1-4x24mm
27. Sightmark Core TX 1-4x24mm
28. Zeiss Victory V8 1.8-14x50mm
29. Bushnell Prime 1-4x32mm
30. Trijicon Ascent 1-4x24mm

FAQ #15 LPVO vs Red Dot w/ Magnifier: Which one should you Choose?

Speed and accuracy are two most important aspects of modern shooting, especially when you are using the most popular AR-15 carbines. Whether you are on battlefield, tactical shooting, hunting, or sports shooting, two scoping optics that are most preferred by the AR-rifle users are LPVOs (Low Power Variable Optics) and Red Dots with Magnifiers. Both of them offer you with speed and accuracy. Which one should you choose? Let’s compare LPVOs and Red Dots w/ Magnifiers to know which one suits you best. 

LPVO vs Red Dot w/ Magnifier: Comparison

1. Variable Magnification

LPVOs: 

• The biggest advantage of low power variable optics is the “variable” magnification aspect. With LPVOs, you can use 1x magnification and shoot up & close by keeping both eyes open. With variable zooming range in place, you can crank up the magnification to view distant objects twice, thrice, or many times larger.

• LPVOs provide much more range to the shooters, right from true 1x to 4x/6x/8x/10x. 

• You can enjoy greatly improved accuracy, especially when hitting targets at more than 100 yards. 

Red Dots w/ Magnifiers: 

• In case of red dots, there is no magnification available to view distant targets. Red dots are highly effective for hitting targets at high speed and with accuracy within 100 yards. However, beyond 100 yards, red dots are highly ineffective. 

• You can use magnifiers with red dots to do away with the prime weakness of the red dots. Magnifiers (separate stand-alone optic placed either behind the red dot in its own mount or with flip-to side configuration) can provide shooters with 2x, 3x, or 4x magnification without doing away with the advantages of the red dots. However, magnifiers can’t provide you with the smoother variable magnification change facility, which is available with the low power variable optics. 

Winner: LPVO is the obvious winner as it provides more magnification as well as much smoother transition of magnification ranges. While LPVOs provide up to 10x zoom ratio (4x or 6x or 8x or 10x), the magnifiers available till now are limited to 6x only. Magnifiers of 8x or 10x are yet to be heard of. 

2. Reticles

LPVOs: 

• Low power variable optics come with etched reticles that look black-shape and contrasted against the field-of-view. 

• Reticle illumination is also available in many advanced LPVOs. In those cases, the reticle is illuminated by either battery, fiber optics, or other light source. 

• The best aspect of the reticles in LPVOs is that irrespective of the battery status, etched reticles are always visible (they may be difficult to view in low light condition or at night though). 

• Unlike red dots, LPVOs come with all kinds of reticle design (right from simple crosshair to complex). BDC reticles for long-distance ranging and ballistics are also available with long range LPVO riflescopes (especially 1-8x and 1-10x). 

• The shooters having astigmatism can also experience superior reticle sharpness with the LPVOs on their ARs. 

Red Dots w/ Magnifiers: 

• When it comes to reticles in red dots, the best aspect is its intense reticle brightness. This bright red dot illumination instantly grabs the eyeballs of the shooter, even in bright sunlight. 

• Red dots with magnifiers lack reticle design, a huge disadvantage when compared to the LPVOs. Even if advanced reticle designs are available, they are difficult to utilize with the red dots. 

• One of the greatest challenges in red dots is that no sight picture is available if there is no battery. 

• The shooters having astigmatism or other medical conditions will struggle with the appearance of the dot. 

Winner:

In case of reticles, LPVO is the definite winner. It provides a wide range of etched reticle designs, clear view for all shooters (including the ones having astigmatism or other medical issues), and clear sight picture irrespective of the battery power. However, one aspect where red dots w/ magnifiers are better is the intense reticle brightness, much superior than that of Low Power Variable Optics. 

3. Other Feature Comparison

• Weight & Size: The red dots are lightweight and therefore adds minimum bulk to the rifle system. In terms of size and weight, red dots (along with magnifiers) are way superior to LPVOs. 

• Price: Even the advanced red dots w/ magnifiers are way cheaper than the Low Power Variable Optics. If your main objective is to hit targets within 100 yards, Red Dot-Magnifier combo (right from budget red dot to top-of-the-line) will provide you with better value for money than the LPVOs.

• Both Eyes Open Shooting: Red dots (with magnifiers) provide you the facility to shoot by keeping both eyes open. Though this facility is available at LPVOs when used at true 1x, they are not as good as red dots. 

• Sight Picture Acquisition: Red dots are better and faster in sight picture acquisition within 100 yards than that of LPVOs (even at true 1x magnification). 

• Battery Life: Red dots have a way better battery-life than that of the low power variable optics. 

Final Words: LPVOs vs Red Dots w/ Magnifiers

If you want to quickly acquire sight picture of the target and surrounding then red-dot is the best option available within 100 yards. In case, your main shooting distance is within 100 yards with occasional need of distant shooting then you can choose red dots with magnifiers (2x, 3x, or 4x) as per your need. 

If you are looking for a variable power scope with shooting/hunting needs ranging from point-blank range to 200 yards, 300 yards, 400 yards, 500 yards, or more, then Low Power Variable Optic (LPVO) scopes are the best choice for you. LPVOs are available in 1-4x, 1-6x, 1-8x, and 1-10x magnification ranges. 

Hence, it can be said that you should choose red dots w/ magnifier when the need is limited predominantly within 100 yards. If the shooting range varies for a shooter from within 100 yards to more than that then LPVOs are a better choice.