If you are looking for the best 1-10 scope, this article is for you, 1-10x rifle scopes offer shooters an unparalleled level of versatility, combining the benefits of both red dot sights and high-powered magnification scopes into a single compact package.
With the ability to seamlessly transition from 1x (no magnification) for close-quarters and rapid target acquisition to 10x magnification for precise long-range shots, the 1-10x scope is a game-changer for a wide range of shooting disciplines.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the features, benefits, and considerations of 1-10x scopes, helping you understand why they have become a go-to choice for those who demand versatility and performance in their optics.
What is a 1-10x Scope?
A 1-10x scope is a low-power variable optic (LPVO) . The “1-10x” designation means that it offers variable magnification from 1x (no magnification) to 10x, allowing you to zoom in or out to adapt to different shooting scenarios.
What are the Advantages of a 1-10x Scope?
- Versatility: The variable magnification range allows you to use it for both close-quarters shooting and long-range engagements.
- Quick Target Acquisition: At 1x, it provides a wide field of view for fast target acquisition, similar to a red dot sight.
- Precision: At higher magnifications, it offers the ability to engage targets at longer distances with greater accuracy.
- Reduced Weight: One LPVO can replace multiple optics, reducing the weight and complexity of your setup.
What type of Shooting is a 1-10x Scope Best Suited for?
A 1-10x scope is suitable for a variety of shooting disciplines, including tactical shooting, 3-gun competitions, hunting, and general-purpose shooting. It excels in situations where you might encounter targets at varying distances.
Best 1-10 Scopes
1) Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10x24mm FFP Rifle Scope
Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10x24mm FFP Rifle Scope is the best 1-10 scope, it comes packed with features such as an FFP reticle, rugged construction, exceptional clarity, durability, and reliability, making it ideal LPVO for demanding shooters, and hunters.
The Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10x24mm FFP Rifle Scope is a cutting-edge optical device designed for precision shooting and versatility. Packed with advanced features, this rifle scope delivers exceptional performance and reliability in various shooting scenarios.
The scope features an HD Optical System for exceptional resolution, effectively cutting down chromatic aberration, and delivering outstanding color fidelity. It provides edge-to-edge sharpness and impressive light transmission, enabling you to see your target clearly in various lighting conditions.
With XR Fully Multi-Coated lenses there is increased light transmission for bright and clear sight pictures even in low-light conditions.
The scope features an illuminated glass-etched FFP Reticle for intricate and precise reticle designs. This reticle is protected between two layers of glass, ensuring optimum durability and reliability, so you can depend on it in critical situations.
To protect the exterior lenses from scratches, oil, and dirt, the scope features an ultra-hard, scratch-resistant ArmorTek coating which ensures your lenses remain clean and free from damage even in challenging outdoor environments.
With a 34mm diameter, the scope’s tube maximizes internal adjustment and strength. This provides ample room for precise adjustments and ensures durability in the face of heavy use. The scope’s tube is constructed from a solid block of aircraft-grade aluminum. This material ensures strength and rigidity, making the scope robust and reliable in the field.
The exterior is coated with a highly durable anodization, providing a low-glare matte surface. This finish also helps to camouflage the shooter’s position, making it ideal for tactical and hunting applications.
One of the most unique features is the patented Friction Reduction System that includes a heat-treated, hardened-steel pad, which floats on the end of the turret screw. It interfaces with a hardened steel ring on the erector tube for steel-on-steel contact, allowing for precise and smooth adjustments.
Specifications
- Tube Diameter: 34 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Eye Relief: 3.6 in
- Weight: 21.5 oz
- Length: 10.1 in
Pros
- Multiple anti-reflective coatings for increased light transmission
- HD Optical System for exceptional color fidelity and resolution
- Optically Indexed Lenses for edge-to-edge image brightness
- Faster target acquisition even in bright daylight conditions thanks to the daylight Bright Illumination
- Waterproof,fog-proof, and shockproof
- Hard Anodized Stealth Shadow Finish for camouflage and reduced glare
- Aircraft-Grade Aluminum for strength and rigidity
Cons
- Quite expensive
2) ATN ThOR 4 1-10x19mm Thermal Smart HD Rifle Scope
ATN ThOR 4 1-10x19mm Thermal Smart HD Rifle Scope is your best 1-10 scope if you are looking for a thermal scope. This Thermal Smart HD Rifle Scope combines cutting-edge thermal imaging with smart technology for incredible performance.
With features like the Gen 4 thermal sensor, video recording, ballistic solutions, and connectivity options, the integration of sensors and GPS elevates the scope’s functionality making it one of the best on the market.
This rifle scope is equipped with a cutting-edge Gen 4 thermal sensor with a high resolution of 640×480 pixels. The sensor is ultra-sensitive, allowing you to detect heat signatures with remarkable clarity and precision, even in the most challenging environmental conditions.
With the video recording feature, you are able to record and capture your hunting or shooting experiences. The ATN ThOR 4 allows you to record video onto a MicroSD card, saving your memorable moments for later review or sharing.
This scope offers a range of smart shooting solutions that enhance your accuracy, including the Smart Range Finder, Ballistic Calculator, and Profile Manager. These tools assist you in making precise shots, taking into account factors such as distance, environmental conditions, and your specific weapon and ammunition profile.
The scope features a recoil-activated video recording function, so you don’t have to worry about starting or stopping the recording manually. It automatically records video when it detects recoil, capturing the moment of your shot.
The 3D GS7 Gyroscope, 3D Accelerometer, and 3D Magnetometer provide critical data for accurate shot placement and tracking. The E-Compass helps you maintain your orientation and navigate effectively in the field.
The integrated GPS system not only geotags your location but also tracks your elevation. This data is invaluable for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and long-range shooters who need to account for elevation changes in their calculations.
Specifications
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Eye Relief: 3.5 in
- Weight: 31 oz
- Length: 13 in
Pros
- Ultra Sensitive Gen 4 640×480 Thermal Sensor
- Records Video onto a MicroSD Card
- GPS for Geotagging and Tracking Elevation
- 3D GS7 Gyroscope, 3D Accelerometer, 3D Magnetometer, E-Compass
- Smart Range Finder, Ballistic Calculator, and Profile Manager
- Wifi and Bluetooth Compatibility
Cons
- Quite expensive
3) Swampfox Arrowhead LPVO 1-10x24mm Rifle Scope
Swampfox Arrowhead LPVO 1-10x24mm Rifle Scope is one of the best 1-10 LPVO scopes, it’s a high-performance riflescope designed for law enforcement and self-defense applications. The scope is feature-rich, you get locking turrets, advanced optics, reticle choices, and robust construction among other incredible features.
The scope features toolless locking turrets that deter unintentional adjustments to ensure that your settings remain rock-solid during intense action.
With its Advanced Optical Design, the scope delivers brighter and sharper sight pictures. It also has a wider field of view for excellent resolution for precision shots.
You can choose from two Second Focal Plane reticles to suit your preferences and needs: the Guerrilla Dot BDC Long and the Guerrilla Dot MOA Long. These reticles are designed to assist with quick target acquisition and accurate shots, making them ideal for fast-paced and high-pressure situations.
Another incredible feature is the fast-focus diopter which allows for quick adjustments( -2 to +2) for crisp and clear reticle focus.
With the ability to withstand 1,100 G forces, the Swampfox Arrowhead is built to handle rugged and demanding conditions. Its durability ensures that it can handle the recoil of various firearms without compromising its functionality.
The scope is compatible with a ring mount, allowing for secure and stable attachment to your firearm. This ensures that the scope remains in place, even during rapid movements and firing.
Specifications
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Eye Relief: 3.54 in
- Weight: 20.3 oz
- Length: 10.67 in
Pros
- Incredible recoil and impact resistance
- Features Push/Pull Locking Turrets with Zero Reset
- Advanced Optical Design for brighter and sharper images
- Fully multicoated optics
- Illuminated
Cons
- None
4) EOTech Vudu 1-10x28mm Rifle Scope
The EOTech Vudu 1-10x28mm Rifle Scope is a premium 1-10 scope featuring aircraft-grade aluminum construction, user-friendly controls, advanced optical technology, and impact resistance.
Crafted from a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum and finished with an anodized coating, the Vudu rifle scope boasts extreme durability.
Precision is key in any shooting scenario, and the Vudu scope ensures that adjustments are both accurate and user-friendly with laser-etched adjustment indicators. This feature allows for simple and hassle-free manipulation of settings. Quick and easy illumination adjustments are at your fingertips with the push-button controls. Whether you’re transitioning from bright daylight to low-light conditions or vice versa, the Vudu scope ensures you have the right illumination level for a clear sight picture.
This scope is built to handle heavy recoil and rough handling. Its rugged construction ensures that it remains functional and accurate even after intense use. The Vudu scope’s single-piece tube and o-ring seals provide protection against moisture and dust, even in the harshest environments.
The Vudu scope features XC high-density, low-dispersion glass with anti-reflective coated lenses. This advanced optical system maximizes light transmission, resulting in a bright and clear sight picture with unmatched edge-to-edge clarity.
The one-piece eyepiece of the Vudu scope incorporates a sleek scalloped design, which allows for greater purchase and faster magnification adjustment. Additionally, it provides a removable throw lever, enhancing your ability to manipulate the scope settings with ease.
Specifications
- Tube Diameter: 34 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Eye Relief: 3.9 in
- Weight: 21.3 oz
- Length: 10.63 in
Pros
- Aircraft-grade aluminum Construction for durability
- XC High Density Glass for impressive light transmission and scene clarity
- Water, shock & fog resistant
- Laser-Etched Adjustment Indicators
- Illuminated Reticle for improved performance in low-light conditions
Cons
- Fixed parallax
5) SIG SAUER Tango-MSR FFP 1-10x26mm Rifle Scope
Finally on our best 1-10 scopes list is the SIG SAUER Tango-MSR FFP 1-10x26mm Rifle Scope.
Let’s look at the scope’s unique features.
The Tango-MSR FFP scope boasts a high-performance 10x optical system with advanced low-dispersion glass. This combination results in exceptional clarity and resolution, delivering a sharp and bright sight picture. Whether you’re engaging targets at close quarters or reaching out to longer distances, this scope is designed to excel.
You also get an integrated throw lever, which enables rapid and hassle-free changes in magnification. This is a crucial advantage in dynamic shooting situations where targets may be at varying distances.
The scope is equipped with the Illuminated MSR BDC-10 reticle, featuring 11 brightness levels. This reticle provides shooters with precise aiming points and range estimation, enhancing accuracy and target acquisition in different lighting conditions.
It is built to withstand the rigors of the field. It is waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof, ensuring it maintains optimal functionality even in adverse weather conditions and when subjected to heavy recoil.
The optical coatings on this scope are Spectracoat, enhancing light transmission and image clarity. This coating reduces glare, optimizes brightness, and ensures that you have a clear and crisp view through the scope.
The scope is compatible with a cantilever mount, a design that allows for proper eye relief and quick mounting on your rifle. This ensures that the scope is securely attached and maintains zero even under recoil.
The Tango-MSR FFP scope features a hard coat anodized finish, which provides durability and resistance to wear and tear. This finish not only protects the scope but also gives it a sleek and attractive appearance.
Specifications
- Tube Diameter: 34 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Eye Relief: 3.4 in
- Weight: 21.9 oz
- Length: 11 in
Pros
- Hardcoat Anodized for low glare and camouflage
- Spectracoat Optical coating for incredible light transmission
- Quick magnification changes with an integrated throw lever
- High-Performance 10x Optical System
- Waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof
Cons
- None
Read also
- 8 Best LPVO Scopes for AR-15
- 11 Best LPVO Scopes(Budget,AR15,Hunting)
- 7 Best Budget LPVO /Affordable LPVO Scopes
Best 1-10 Scope FAQs
What type of shooting is a 1-10x scope best suited for?
A 1-10 scope is suitable for a variety of shooting disciplines, including tactical shooting, 3-gun competitions, hunting, and general-purpose shooting. It excels in situations where you might encounter targets at varying distances.
How does the illuminated reticle work on a 1-10x scope?
Many 1-10x scopes feature illuminated reticles, which can be adjusted to different brightness levels. This illumination enhances the visibility of the reticle in low-light conditions, making it easier to aim accurately.
Are 1-10x scopes good for low-light conditions?
Some 1-10x scopes are equipped with features like illuminated reticles and high-quality glass coatings, making them suitable for low-light conditions. However, not all 1-10x scopes are created equal, so it’s important to choose one with good low-light performance if that’s a priority.
Can I use a 1-10x scope on an AR-15 platform?
Yes, many 1-10x scopes are designed for use on AR-15 and similar platforms. They can be mounted on a Picatinny or M-Lok rail using the appropriate mounts.
Do I need to adjust the scope for different magnifications?
In most cases, the reticle in a 1-10 scope is placed in the first focal plane (FFP), meaning that it maintains its size relative to the target as you change magnification. This ensures that the reticle’s subtensions are accurate at all magnification levels, so you typically do not need to make adjustments when changing magnification.
Can I use a 1-10x scope for long-range shooting?
While a 1-10x scope can be used for long-range shooting, it may not provide the same level of precision as dedicated high-magnification scopes. The effectiveness at longer ranges depends on factors like the scope’s quality, the reticle design, and the shooter’s skill.
How should I zero my 1-10x scope?
Zeroing your 1-10x scope involves aligning the point of impact with the crosshairs or reticle at a specific distance. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for zeroing your scope, typically by shooting at a target and making adjustments until your shots hit the desired point of impact.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a hunter in pursuit of elusive game, a competitive shooter seeking an edge, or a tactical operator requiring adaptability in dynamic environments, a 1-10 scope is an indispensable optic. Choose any of the above-reviewed scopes and you won’t be disappointed.