Last updated on October 30th, 2024
We’ve all heard the hype about running a Red Dot on your rifle, they’re a trendy bit of kit but let’s be honest, they’re not exactly designed for hitting targets on the other side of a football field. Enter the LPVO, or Low Power Variable Optic. These guys are the Swiss Army knives of the shooting world, perfect for anything from close quarters engagements to mid range engagements. They give you a massive field of view at low magnification. This makes it easier than ever to spot targets faster than a bad habit.
Crank up the zoom, and you’ve got the precision of a surgeon’s scalpel for those longer shots. Whether you’re storming through a tactical scenario or stalking game in the wild, LPVOs are the versatile scopes you didn’t know you needed. In this guide, we’ll break down best of the best of LPVO rifle scopes for 2024. Looking into their features including those all important reticles to help you find the perfect optic for your arsenal.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing an LPVO Rifle Scope
You’re on the hunt for an LPVO rifle scope, you want something that’s as reliable as your favorite pair of boots. And maybe just as versatile. First, you need to think about the magnification range. These scopes come in a variety of ranges like 1-4x, 1-6x, or the supercharged 1-8x. It’s all about how much zoom you need. Are you just looking to get a bit closer to the action? or do you want to feel like you’re eyeballing your target from miles away?
Next, consider the quality of the lenses. This is crucial. Imagine trying to spot a deer through a pair of dirty glasses. Not ideal, right? High-quality lenses will give you clear, bright images, like switching from an old fat back TV to a brand new 4K UHD . It makes all the difference when you’re out in the field. And let’s not forget durability. You need a scope that’s built like a tank. Able to withstand everything from torrential rain to the occasional knock against a tree. If your scope can’t take a bit of rough and tumble, it’s not worth your time or money.
Lastly, think about the reticle choice. The type of reticle and whether it’s illuminated can greatly impact your performance. An illuminated reticle can be the difference between hitting your target and just scaring it off. So, choose wisely, and you’ll have an LPVO that’s ready for anything you throw at it.
Best High End Tactical LPVO
Steiner T6Xi 1-6×24
The Steiner T6Xi 1-6×24, an optic that’s as impressive as a German engineered supercar and as rugged as a tank. I recently reviewed the much larger big brother of this optic, the Steiner T6Xi 5-30×56. I liked it when I got it and I ended up loving it by the time I had to give it back. The 1-6x variant LPVO, is a testament to Steiner’s knack for making top notch optics that make professional shooters drool. First off, the T6Xi is built like a brick outhouse. It’s designed to laugh in the face of harsh field conditions, shrugging off knocks, drops, and the sort of weather that would have lesser scopes crying for their mothers. This resilience isn’t just for show, it’s the hallmark of Steiner’s battle proven reputation.
Now, let’s talk about the glass. The optical clarity of the T6Xi is nothing short of awesome. It’s like looking through a window that’s been cleaned by someone with severe OCD. The images are sharp and clear, which is exactly what you need when you’re trying to acquire targets with accuracy. The optical system is well tailored for clarity and precision. This ensures that you can spot and identify your target faster than you can say “impact.”
The T6Xi doesn’t stop at great glass, though. It comes with a range of reticles, including the Special Competition Reticle (SCR). This little marvel provides precise holdovers and windage corrections, making it ideal for competitive shooting and tactical applications alike. Whether you’re competing in a match or on a tactical mission, the SCR ensures you’re always on target. Then there’s the magnification range. With 1-6x magnification, the T6Xi offers a broad field of view at lower settings, perfect for close quarter engagements. Crank it up to 6x, and you get detailed imagery for mid range shooting. It’s like having the best of both worlds in one compact, robust package.
User friendly functionality is another feather in the T6Xi’s cap. It features a throw lever for rapid magnification changes, even if you’re wearing gloves thicker than a grizzly’s pelt. The exposed or capped elevation turrets give you the option to adjust based on your preference or mission requirements. And let’s not forget the diopter locking ring. It ensures that once you’ve got the reticle focused to your eye, it stays there.
In short, the Steiner T6Xi 1-6×24 is the optic of choice for those who demand reliability, precision, and durability. It’s engineered to perform under the most demanding conditions. making the Steiner perfect for professional shooters who need an optic that won’t let them down when it matters most. So, whether you’re kicking down doors or stalking prey, the T6Xi is ready to deliver.
Best LPVO For Competitions
Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24
The Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24,a scope so well engineered it might as well come with its own cape. This piece of kit has earned its stripes among professional shooters, and it’s not hard to see why. Nightforce has built a reputation on supplying military contracts, and the ATACR series carries forward that legacy with rugged reliability, pristine optics, and user friendly functionality. First off, the ATACR 1-8×24 is built very well.
It’s designed to withstand the kind of rough treatment that competition and tactical scopes get exposed to. This is crucial for professional shooters who need equipment that performs flawlessly under the toughest conditions. The scope’s construction is not just robust, it’s battle proven and perfect for those who don’t shy away from challenging environments.
The optical performance of this scope is nothing short of spectacular. We’re talking excellent ED glass that delivers a crystal clear image and exceptional light transmission. This clarity ensures that you can spot and engage targets with the kind of precision that’s expected at the price point. Whether you’re in bright daylight or using night vision, the reticle remains visible and functional, thanks to its 10 brightness settings.
Speaking of reticles, the ATACR offers a choice between the MOAR and MIL-C reticles, both designed for precision. The MOAR reticle, for instance, features a floating center crosshair and 1 MOA markings, ideal for both competitive shooting and hunting. The reticles are thoughtfully designed, providing excellent holdovers and windage corrections, ensuring you can make those critical shots accurately.
The scope’s 1-8x magnification range offers incredible versatility. At 1x, you’ve got a wide field of view akin to using open sights, perfect for close-quarter engagements. Dial it up to 8x, and you get detailed imagery that’s essential for mid range shooting. This makes the ATACR an all rounder, equally at home in tactical situations or out in the wild on a hunt.
User friendly features include low profile turrets, which are capped to prevent accidental adjustments, and an integrated Power Throw Lever (PTL) for rapid magnification changes. The scope also boasts a robust illumination control knob with an off position between each setting, ensuring you won’t accidentally drain your battery when not in use.
In summary, the Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 is a marvel of modern optics engineering, offering the reliability, precision, and durability demanded by professional shooters. Whether you’re storming through tactical scenarios or tracking prey in the wild, this scope is designed to deliver exceptional performance every time.
Best Entry Level LPVO
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24, a scope that’s made waves for being one of the best LPVO you can get without having to sell a kidney. This little marvel combines affordability with a slew of features and an ironclad warranty, making it a top choice for shooters around the globe.
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 is designed for those who want a reliable LPVO without breaking the bank. This scope boasts a 1-8x magnification range, providing versatility from point blank engagements to more distant targets. The AR-BDC3 reticle, exclusive to this series, is a brilliant piece of engineering. It’s calibrated for popular 5.56 and .308 cartridges, providing holdover points for bullet drop and ensuring rapid target acquisition up close and precise shots at greater distances.
Now, let’s talk about the glass. The Strike Eagle is equipped with fully multi coated lenses that enhance light transmission and provide clear, crisp images. The extra-low dispersion (XD) glass ensures high resolution and true color fidelity, making those distant targets appear as if they’re just a stone’s throw away. Durability is another strong suit of the Strike Eagle. Built from aircraft grade aluminum, it’s shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof, essentially, it can withstand everything short of a direct meteor strike. The ArmorTek coating adds an extra layer of protection, keeping the lenses safe from scratches, oil, and dirt.
One of the standout features is the included throw lever. This nifty little addition allows for rapid magnification changes, perfect for those moments when you need to switch from scanning to shooting in the blink of an eye. And with a weight of just 17.6 ounces and a compact length of 10 inches, it won’t turn your rifle into a cumbersome beast.
The AR-BDC3 reticle is illuminated and glass etched, providing excellent visibility in all lighting conditions. It’s designed to pull your eye to the center for rapid target acquisition, and its BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) functionality ensures you can stay on target out to 650 yards. This makes the Strike Eagle a versatile choice, suitable for everything from dynamic competitions to hunting.
In summary, the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 is a brilliant choice for anyone needing a versatile, reliable, and affordable LPVO. Whether you’re competing, hunting, or just enjoying a day at the range, this scope has you covered with its superb optical clarity, robust build, and thoughtful features. It’s not just a scope; it’s one of the best LPVO for those who demand performance without the premium price tag.
Best Value LPVO
Vortex PST Gen II 1-6×24
One of my first ever scope reviews was the Vortex PST Gen II 5-25×50, a scope I had and loved for years on my long distance rifle. Now its time to look at the Vortex PST Gen II 1-6×24, a scope that’s a serious contender for the title of best LPVO. If the Strike Eagle is the reliable family sedan, then the PST Gen II is the sports car variant, a step up in build quality and performance that doesn’t skimp on features. The Vortex PST Gen II is renowned for its top notch optical clarity, thanks to extra low dispersion (XD) glass and XR fully multi coated lenses. These elements combine to deliver bright, crisp images with excellent color fidelity. Whether you’re shooting in broad daylight or in low light conditions, this scope ensures you see everything in sharp detail.
This scope features the EBR-2C reticle, available in both MOA and MRAD versions. It’s a masterclass in design, providing intuitive hold points for windage and elevation. This reticle isn’t just about precision, it’s about speed. The illuminated reticle, with its 10 intensity levels, ensures quick and accurate target acquisition, even in rough conditions. Durability is another area where the PST Gen II shines. Constructed from a single block of aircraft grade aluminum, it’s shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof. The ArmorTek coating adds an extra layer of protection to the lenses, keeping them free from scratches, oil, and dirt. This scope is built to withstand the rough and tumble of tactical use and hunting alike.
The precision click adjustments on the PST Gen II are nothing short of excellent. With 0.2 MRAD or 1/4 MOA adjustments, you can fine tune your aim with ease. The capped turrets ensure that your settings stay put, even after a bumpy ride. And let’s not forget the Precision Glide Erector System, which guarantees smooth magnification changes every time. At a length of 10.9 inches and weighing in at 22.7 ounces, the PST Gen II is compact yet robust. It offers a field of view ranging from 112.5 feet to 18.8 feet at 100 yards, providing a versatile range for different shooting scenarios.
The eye relief is a comfortable 3.8 inches, ensuring you can use it without straining your eyes. In summary, the Vortex PST Gen II 1-6×24 is a stellar LPVO that combines precision, durability, and excellent optics. It’s designed for shooters who demand reliability and performance, making it a superb choice for both competitive shooting and tactical operations. Whether you’re taking close-quarter shots or reaching out to mid-range targets, this scope delivers in spades.
Best Budget Package LPVO
Sig Sauer TANGO MSR 1-6×24
The Sig Sauer TANGO MSR 1-6×24, an LPVO that’s made quite a splash in the world of optics. This scope is the best LPVO for those looking to balance affordability with features. First off, the TANGO MSR comes with a high performance 6x optical system, boasting low dispersion glass that provides clear and crisp images. It’s perfect for what an LPVO is meant to be, transitioning quickly between close and mid range targets. This is easily achieved thanks to its integrated thread in throw lever for rapid magnification changes. This scope is all about speed and efficiency.
The reticle options, including the illuminated MSR BDC6, are designed with tactical and sporting shooters in mind. The BDC6 reticle features built in windage and holdover marks, making it incredibly user friendly for quick target acquisition and precise shot placement. With 11 brightness settings, this illuminated reticle ensures you can see your target clearly in various lighting conditions.
Now, let’s talk durability. The TANGO MSR is built well. It’s waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of the field. The scope also includes lay flat flip back lens covers and comes with a high quality ALPHA-MSR cantilever mount right out of the box. This makes it an excellent value package, ready to mount and go straight from the box. While this scope isn’t aimed at the hunting crowd who prefer a simpler duplex-style reticle, it shines in the tactical and sport shooting arenas. The user friendly design, combined with the quick adjust magnification ring and throw lever, ensures that you can adapt to changing situations with ease.
In conclusion, the Sig Sauer TANGO MSR 1-6×24 is a stellar choice for those seeking the best LPVO without breaking the bank. Its combination of quality optics, great build, and thoughtful features make it a formidable option for tactical and competitive shooting.
Best LPVO For Hunting
Meopta Optika6 1-6×24
The Meopta Optika6 1-6×24, a scope that’s firmly planted in the best LPVO category for those who need a bit of everything precision, durability, and clarity all without remortgaging the house. First off, the Meopta Optika6 1-6×24 is crafted with hunters in mind, but it’s versatile enough for medium range competition shooting as well. Built in the Czech Republic, this scope stands out with its impressive weight balance and superior glass quality. The lens coatings, including MeoBright and MeoShield, enhance light transmission and reduce glare, providing bright and clear images even in low-light conditions, which is crucial for those dawn and dusk hunting trips.
The scope offers four reticle options: some with ballistic dots and hashmarks, and others with simpler, hunting-focused designs. This means you can pick the one that best suits your shooting style. You also have the choice between first and second focal plane models. The second focal plane reticles remain constant in size across all magnifications, which many hunters find advantageous for quick target acquisition.
Durability wise, the Optika6 is a robust piece of kit. It’s shockproof, waterproof, and fog proof, ready to take on whatever the elements throw at you. The scope’s 30mm tube and capped turrets enhance its ruggedness while keeping it lightweight at just over 20 ounces. The turret adjustments are crisp, with a 0.5 MOA impact point correction, making fine-tuning a breeze.
The 1-6x magnification range is ideal for fast reflexive shooting at 1x, similar to a red dot sight, and allows you to zero in on more distant targets with ease at 6x. The illuminated reticle, with its seven brightness settings, ensures visibility in various lighting conditions, although it’s not quite daylight bright. The generous eye relief of nearly 4 inches and a wide field of view make it comfortable to use, even for extended periods. In summary, the Meopta Optika6 1-6×24 is a stellar option for those looking for the best LPVO that can handle both hunting and competitive shooting. Its combination of high quality optics, durable build, and versatile reticle options makes it a standout choice for any serious shooter.
Best All Round LPVO
Trijicon Credo 1-6×24
The Trijicon Credo 1-6×24, an LPVO that screams rugged durability and precision. Trijicon, famed for their battle hardened optics, delivers once again with this scope, designed explicitly for competition and law enforcement. If you’re after the best LPVO for dynamic shooting scenarios, this is your ticket.
The Credo 1-6×24 boasts Trijicon’s superb glass, providing edge to edge clarity and impressive light transmission thanks to fully multi coated lenses. This scope comes with an adjustable diopter, capped turrets that zero easily, and ¼ MOA adjustments for precise tuning. The turrets are crisp, offering reliable performance without any fuss.
Reticle options? You’ve got four to choose from, with both red and green illumination. These reticles are perfect for rapid target acquisition and come with ten brightness settings, ensuring you can see clearly in any lighting condition. The illumination uses Trijicon’s Bindon Aiming Concept, allowing for “both eyes open” shooting, which is brilliant for fast engagement in tactical situations.
Practicality is another strong suit. The Credo comes with lens covers, a neoprene scope cover, and an adjustable throw lever, making magnification changes swift and seamless. Plus, it’s built incredibly well being shockproof, waterproof, and tested to military standards, ensuring it can withstand the toughest conditions. Overall, the Trijicon Credo 1-6×24 is a top tier LPVO that blends military-grade durability with the versatile functionality needed for serious shooting applications. Whether you’re on the competition circuit or in the field, this scope delivers exceptional performance every time.
Summing Up
Each model offers something different, being quality, performance, and design, catering to different needs of competition shooters, hunters and professionals. The world of LPVOs is diverse, and there are plenty of choices, but understanding the differences of each model can help in making a more informed decision. The Steiner T6Xi sets a high standard for the tactical minded and the Nightforce ATACR follows closely, offering great clarity and usability. The Vortex models with the Strike Eagle and PST Gen II show that performance doesn’t always have to come at a premium price, making quality optics affordable.
In conclusion, the choice of which LPVO you need is a personal decision. It’s important to consider not only the specs and features of the LPVO but also how it fits with your needs. The right LPVO can provide greater adaptability across ranges, and offer the reliability required in different environments.
HIGH END TACTICAL PICK
Steiner T6Xi
Great tactical turrets, tough build quality from one of the best optics companies in the world
COMPETITION FAVORITE
Nightforce ATACR
Great glass and a tough exterior make this perfect for dynamic shooting
BEST ENTRY LEVEL
Vortex Strike Eagle
Great price and even better warranty, its the perfect starting point
BEST VALUE
Vortex PST Gen II
Punching above its weight, the PST has exceptional features for the price bracket it sits in
ALL ROUNDER
Trijicon Credo
Leaning more toward a tactical optic the reticle choices give you plenty of options
PRECISIONRIFLE