Ever wished your hunting or tactical rifle had the versatility of a Swiss Army knife? The ability to smoothly transition from a broad field of view at 1x for rapid target acquisition to a higher magnification for precise shots at a distance is precisely what a Low Power Variable Optic (LPVO) offers. The Best LPVO Scope can make all the difference, whether you’re ringing steel at the range, stalking deer in thick forests, or need a multipurpose scope for your AR.
But how do you make a decision when there are so many options available? I’ve done the research for you, so don’t worry. I’ll go over the main features, benefits, and drawbacks of the best LPVO scopes for hunters and shooters in this article, helping you decide which one is worth your hard-earned money.
Factors to consider when buying the Best LPVO Scope
Magnification Range
LPVOs usually fall into one of the following ranges: 1-4x, 1-6x, 1-8x, or even 1-10x. A 1-4x or 1-6x might be perfect if you require close-range versatility and quicker target acquisition. More flexibility is provided by 1-8x or 1-10x for extended-range precision.
Glass Clarity & Lens Coatings
Superior glass and multi-coated lenses enhance light transmission, reduce glare, and produce a clear, sharp image. To get the best visibility under various lighting conditions, look for scopes with fully multi-coated or HD glass.
Durability
A tactical or hunting scope must withstand adverse conditions. For resistance to recoil, look for features like: Shockproof construction. Sealing that is both fog-proof and waterproof for all-weather performance. Longevity through aircraft-grade aluminum housing.
Eye Relief
To avoid scope bite, especially on rifles that have recoil, a good LPVO should have a generous eye relief of at least 3.5 inches. A forgiving eye box facilitates speedy sight picture acquisition.
Weight & Size
The weight of LPVOs varies, usually ranging from 16 to 24 ounces. An AR or lightweight hunting rifle will maintain the balance of your setup if you mount it on one of these devices.
Best LPVO Scope
1) Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10×24
Specifications
- 1 – 10 x magnification
- 24 mm objective lens
- 34 mm tube diameter
- 2.4 – 24 mm exit pupil
- 116 – 11.7 ft at 100 yds FOV
- 3.6 in eye relief
- Weighs 21.5 oz
- First focal plane
- 100 yds parallax
With its true 1x magnification for close-quarters shooting and up to 10x magnification for long-range accuracy, the Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10×24 is the ultimate LPVO, providing unparalleled versatility. It has a broad field of view, outstanding light transmission, and crystal-clear clarity thanks to its premium HD glass and fully multi-coated lenses.
Its daylight-bright illumination improves visibility in all lighting conditions, and its first focal plane (FFP) reticle guarantees accurate holdovers at any magnification. It is made to endure the most severe conditions thanks to its sturdy, waterproof, and shockproof construction. The Razor HD Gen III is an exceptional LPVO that raises the bar for performance and longevity.
Pros
- True 1x magnification
- Exceptional HD glass
- First focal plane (FFP) reticle
- Daylight-bright illumination
- Rugged & durable
- Edge-to-edge clarity
Cons
- Premium price point
2) Primary Arms SLX 1-6×24 ACSS Gen III
Specifications
- 1 – 6 x magnification
- 24 mm objective lens diameter
- 30 mm tube diameter
- 4 – 9 mm exit pupil
- 110 – 19.3 ft at 100 yds FOV
- 3.3 – 3.5 in eye relief
- Weighs 16.9 oz
- Second focal plane
The Primary Arms SLX 1-6×24 ACSS Gen III is ideal for competitive, hunting, and tactical shooting applications. With the patented ACSS reticle from Primary Arms, it is highly versatile and provides wind holds, range estimation, bullet drop compensation (BDC), and quick target acquisition. With the true 1x magnification, you can shoot at close range quickly and with both eyes open, and the fully multi-coated lenses offer good clarity and light transmission.
Its sturdy design, shock resistance, fog resistance, and waterproofing guarantee dependability in challenging circumstances. For shooters seeking a dependable and reasonably priced LPVO, the SLX 1-6×24 ACSS Gen III is a great option because, despite lacking the premium glass of high-end optics, it offers exceptional performance for the price.
Pros
- ACSS reticle
- 6x zoom range
- Rugged & durable
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Budget-friendly
- True 1x magnification
Cons
- None
3) Leupold VX-6HD 1-6×24
Specifications
- 1 – 6 x magnification
- 24 mm objective lens
- 30 mm tube diameter
- 4 – 24 mm exit pupil
- 123.2 – 20.3 ft at 100 yds FOV
- 3.7 – 3.82 in eye relief
- Weighs 13.4 oz
- Second focal plane
Leupold VX-6HD 1-6×24 is a high-end LPVO that combines excellent optical performance with lightweight design. The Elite Optical System from Leupold is a feature that offers remarkable contrast, brightness, and clarity at all magnifications. The 6x zoom offers versatility for mid-range shots, while the VX-6HD’s true 1x magnification allows for quick target acquisition for close-range shooting.
No matter the magnification, the First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle retains precise holdovers and ballistic compensation. This scope is shockproof, waterproof, and fog-resistant, making it capable of handling challenging conditions and providing dependable performance in any setting. For hunters and tactical users searching for a high-performance, durable, and portable LPVO, its lightweight and small size make it ideal.
Pros
- Exceptional glass quality
- True 1x magnification
- First focal plane (FFP) reticle
- Rugged & durable
- Lightweight & compact
- Motion sensor technology
Cons
- None
4) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24
Specifications
- 1 – 8 x magnification
- 24 mm objective lens
- 30 mm tube diameter
- 14.1 – 113.6 ft at 100 yds FOV
- 3.9 in eye relief
- Weighs 1.49 lb
- 125 yds parallax
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 is a high-performance, reasonably priced LPVO that blends clarity, durability, and versatility. It offers remarkable versatility for a range of shooting situations, with a true 1x magnification for fast target acquisition at close range and up to 8x magnification for accurate shots at mid-range. The second focal plane (SFP) reticle offers quick aiming points and simple adjustments for a range of distances because it is the same size at all magnifications.
Clear, bright images are produced by the fully multi-coated lenses, and the sturdy design makes it resistant to shock, water, and fog. The Strike Eagle 1-8×24 is an excellent option for hunters, competitive shooters, and tactical users searching for a dependable firearm because of its low-profile turrets and fast-focus eyepiece, which further improve usability and ease of adjustments.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Rugged & durable
- Fast-focus eyepiece
- Low profile turrets
- True 1x magnification
- 8x zoom range
Cons
- None
5) Trijicon VCOG 1-8×28
Specifications
- 1 – 8 x magnification
- 28 mm objective lens diameter
- 34 mm tube diameter
- 11.8 – 3.5 mm exit pupil
- 109.2 – 13.1 ft at 100 yds FOV
- 4 – 3.9 in eye relief
- Weighs 31.5 oz
- First focal plane
The Trijicon VCOG 1-8×28 is a high-end, combat-tested LPVO designed for maximum accuracy and durability. Its variable magnification range of 1x to 8x makes it ideal for both mid-to-long-range and close-quarters shooting. The scope’s cutting-edge LED-illuminated reticle from Trijicon ensures bright, clear aiming points in both daylight and low light. It provides quick target acquisition with a true 1x magnification, and it can make accurate shots at greater distances with an 8x magnification.
The tough, military-grade design is fog-resistant, shockproof, and waterproof, and the first focal plane (FFP) reticle guarantees accuracy at all magnifications. The VCOG 1-8×28 is made for competitive marksmen, military professionals, and serious tactical shooters who need a scope that can function in harsh environments without compromising optical clarity or dependability.
Pros
- Versatile 1-8x magnification
- First focal plane (FFP) reticle
- Exceptional clarity
- Military-grade durability
- Trijicon LED illuminated reticle
- Parallax-free at 100 yards
Cons
- None
6) Sig Sauer Tango6T 1-6×24
Specifications
- 1 – 6 x magnifications
- 24 mm objective lens
- 30 mm tube diameter
- 4 – 24 mm exit pupil
- 17.7 – 105.8 ft at 100 yds FOV
- 3.9 – 4.1 in eye relief
- Weighs 22.1 oz
- 150-meter parallax
- First focal plane
The Sig Sauer Tango6T 1-6×24 is a tough, high-performance LPVO made for hunters and tactical shooters who want dependability and versatility in harsh conditions. With up to 6x magnification for accuracy at mid-range range and 1x magnification for quick target acquisition at close range, it offers the perfect balance for both short engagements and longer shots.
At any magnification, the first focal plane (FFP) reticle guarantees precise holdovers and range estimation, and in low light, the illuminated reticle offers distinct aiming points. The Tango6T is made with Sig Sauer’s exclusive HD lenses, which provide remarkable brightness and clarity. Its sturdy design also makes it resistant to fog, shock, and water. This scope is ideal for serious tactical shooters or hunters seeking a long-lasting, premium LPVO with military-grade performance.
Pros
- Versatile 1-6x magnification
- First focal plane (FFP) reticle
- High-quality glass HD lenses
- Rugged & durable
- Illuminated reticle
- Compact and lightweight
Cons
- None
Best LPVO Scope FAQs
What is an LPVO scope?
A rifle scope that has a variable magnification range, usually starting at 1x and going up to 4x, 6x, 8x, or 10x, is called an LPVO (Low Power Variable Optic). It offers the advantages of a magnified optic for mid-range accuracy and a red dot sight for close-range shooting.
Is an LPVO better than a red dot?
LPVOs are more adaptable than a red dot because they offer both 1x and magnified options. But when used with a magnifier, red dots are lighter, faster, and perform better in low light. The best option if you require long-range capability is an LPVO.
Do I need an illuminated reticle on an LPVO?
It is easier to acquire your target when you have an illuminated reticle because it increases visibility in low light. Although it’s not always required, it’s a fantastic feature for tactical shooting, hunting, and situations involving dusk or dawn.
Can I use an LPVO for hunting?
Yes! Hunting in dense woods, brush hunting, and hog hunting, where rapid target acquisition is essential, is a good fit for LPVOs. A 1-6x or 1-8x LPVO is a great option for the majority of hunting uses.
Are LPVO scopes good for low-light shooting?
The quality of the glass and lens coatings determine this. In low light, higher-end LPVOs with illuminated reticles, larger objective lenses, and fully multi-coated lenses perform better.
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Conclusion
One of the most versatile optics you can install on your rifle is an LPVO scope, which offers you the optimal combination of high magnification precision accuracy and fast target acquisition at 1x. Choosing the best LPVO depends on reticle type, budget, durability, glass quality, and magnification, regardless of whether you’re a hunter, competitive shooter, or need a dependable optic for tactical applications.
Purchasing a high-quality LPVO guarantees improved performance, long-term dependability, and clarity. I hope this article has helped you make a more informed decision. To advance your shooting, it’s time to choose the ideal LPVO! Happy shooting!
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