When it comes to Modern Sporting Rifles (MSR), tactical carbines, and AR-15 Rifles a high-quality optic is a Must have, however, you don’t have to break the bank to get one, our best budget LPVO list highlights high-quality scopes that are very affordable.
Low-powered variable optics (LPVO), have a wide range of magnifications typically 1-4x,1-6x or 1-8x, and 1-10x making them versatile for a wide range of close to medium and sometimes long-range applications.
In this guide, we will take a look at some of the best budget LPVO scopes for budget-conscious buyers. Let’s have a look.
What Makes a Good Budget LPVO?
One of the most important factors to consider when looking for a good budget LPVO is the quality of the optics. Fully multi-coated and Anti-Reflective optics are a must-have for an LPVO’s ability to produce clear and bright images. These optics enhance light transmission and reduce light reflection which in turn makes sure the resolution and color fidelity and top-class.
LPVO scopes have a magnification range from a true 1x to highs of 10x or 12x, the most common magnification for an LPVO is 1-6x with 1-4x and 1-8x also being a favorite among many. This magnification range makes the optic very versatile for close-quarters mid-range and long-range applications.
Durability and Construction, the best LPVO should feature a durable aircraft-grade aluminum build, this will not only make the scope strong and durable but also shockproof and versatile for attachments.
Waterproof, Shockproof, and Fogproof, An LPVO should be o-ring sealed and feature nitrogen purging to prevent internal fogging with temperature changes. O-ring seals prevent water, debris, and dirt from getting into the scope.
Other important features include Capped turrets, an illuminated reticle, long battery life, and an anodized finish for low glare and camouflage for hunters.
In summary, a good budget LPVO should have clear, crisp, and bright images, durable shockproof construction, easy, quick, and accurate adjustments for windage and elevation, good eye relief, a wide field of view, and be within your budget.
Best Budget LPVO Scopes
1) Primary Arms SLx 1-6 x24mm Rifle Scope
Primary Arms SLx 1-6 x24mm Rifle Scope is the best Budget LPVO scope, the scope features a quick focus eyepiece, reticle illumination, finger adjustable turrets, durable construction, and is protected by the Primary Arms Lifetime Warranty.
With a variable 1-6x magnification the scope is ideal for close to mid-range applications.
The ACSS Standard reticle is one of the best for LPVO, the reticle is a mix of BDC, wind holds, range estimation, and moving target leads for the best target acquisition system.
The scope is waterproof and fog-resistant for all-weather performance and features a durable 6063 aluminum build with a matte black anodized finish for reduced glare, camouflage, and durability.
Specifications
- Weight: 16.9 oz
- Eye Relief: 3.3 – 3.5 in
- Reticle: ACSS
- Length: 10 in
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Magnification: 1 – 6 x
- Material: Aircraft Grade Aluminum
- Exit Pupil: 4 – 9 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 110 – 19.3 ft at 100 yds
Pros
- Hardcoat anodized matte finish for durability, camouflage, and low glare
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Comes with Butler Creek flip-up lens covers
- Illuminated reticle
- Strong and durable 6063 Aluminum construction
- Waterproof and fog proof performance
- Impact and shock resistant
- 11 brightness settings
- 1-6x total magnification
- BDC is accurate at the highest magnification setting
Cons
- Not Night vision compatible
2) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope is the best budget LPVO 1-6 and is best described in two terms, Speed and versatility for close to mid-range applications.
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope is not only versatile but also very durable with its rugged Aircraft grade aluminum construction which is able to withstand impact and recoil from firearms.
It also features an ultra-hard and scratch-resistant external coating for scratch protection and depreciation caused by dirt and oil.
With a magnification range of 1-6x, you can use the scope for close encounters and also longer-range applications. The scope features an illuminated glass-etched reticle for precision even in low-light conditions. It also has a fast-focus eyepiece for easy and quick reticle focusing.
Quick target acquisition is also enhanced by the wide field of view and 11 brightness settings. The scope is not only shockproof but also fog proof, and waterproof.
It is a great scope if you are looking for a versatile, durable, and reliable scope for hunting, tactical and competitive shooting.
Specifications
- Weight: 18.5 oz
- Eye Relief: 3.5 in
- Reticle: AR-BDC3
- Length: 10.5 in
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Magnification: 1 – 6 x
- Material: Aircraft Grade Aluminum
- Exit Pupil: 4 – 24 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 19.2 – 116.5 ft at 100 yds
Pros
- Shockproof, waterproof, and fog proof
- Aircraft-grade, strong, and durable aluminum construction
- Fully Multi-Coated optics
- Illuminated reticle
- Fast Focus Eyepiece
- Extra-low dispersion (XD) glass for color fidelity and resolution
Cons
- Not ideal for extreme long-range shooting.
3) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm Rifle Scope
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm Rifle Scope is the best budget LPVO 1-8, it is a versatile scope for close to long-range applications.
With a true 1x magnification on the lowest setting, you are able to quickly engage targets while at the highest 8x magnification, you will be able to shoot mid and long-range.
The thread-in throw lever, wide field of view, an illuminated reticle with 11 brightness settings, and AR-BDC3 reticle are also very important in rapid shooting since it facilitates holdover and ranging references from 0-600 yards.
The scope is durably made with aircraft-grade aluminum which makes it shockproof and strong to handle impacts, recoil, and the harshness of the field.
You also get a fog proof and waterproof performance with this scope.
Specifications
- Weight: 17.6 oz
- Eye Relief: 3.5 in
- Reticle: AR-BDC3
- Length: 10 in
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Magnification: 1 – 8x
- Material: Aircraft Grade Aluminum
- Exit Pupil: 3 – 24 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 14.4 – 109 ft at 100 yds
Pros
- Aircraft Grade Aluminum construction
- 11 brightness settings
- Fully Multi-Coated optics
- Matte Anodized finish
- Fast Focus Eyepiece
- Illuminated Reticle
- Extra-low dispersion (XD) glass
Cons
- None
4) Atibal XP8 Mirage 1-8x24mm Rifle Scope
Atibal XP8 Mirage 1-8x24mm Rifle Scope is not only practical but comes with very innovative features that make it one of the best low-power variable optics for the budget buyer.
Its illuminated TDR BDC reticle on the First Focal plane makes it easy to acquire targets fast, especially at close range, and make precise shots at long range.
The scope features internal o-ring seals and nitrogen purging for a waterproof and fog-proof performance preventing dirt, water, and debris from entering the scope and preventing internal fogging which is caused by temperature changes.
With fully multicoated lenses there is increased light transmission for clarity and better image quality. To handle impacts and recoil the scope is shock and recoil-proof.
With the Atibal Rapid View Lever, you are able to make quick magnification changes confidently.
Other incredible features are Low Profile Capped Turrets, Illuminated Reticle with 11 brightness settings, and Extra Battery Storage
Specifications
- Weight: 17.6 oz
- Eye Relief: 3.5 in
- Reticle: AR-BDC3
- Length: 10 in
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Magnification: 1 – 8x
- Material: Aircraft Grade Aluminum
- Exit Pupil: 3 – 24 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 14.4 – 109 ft at 100 yds
Pros
- Illuminated reticle with 11 brightness settings
- Comes with extra battery storage
- Recoil and impact resistant
- Water and fog proof
- Low Profile Capped Turrets
- Atibal Rapid View Lever
- 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Fully multi-coated lens
- Lifetime Warranty
- First Focal Plane (FFP)
Cons
- None
5) Bushnell AR Optics 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
This 1-6x24mm riflescope comes with an illuminated BDC reticle for quick and precise target acquisition out to 500 yards.
This scope is lightweight, small, and compact for maneuverability and ease of use.
The scope features a throw-down power change lever which makes magnification changes quick and easy for quick target acquisition.
You also get capped turrets and fully multi-coated optics for increased light transmission for bright and clear images.
The scope is also O-ring sealed for a weatherproof performance, waterproof, and fog proof.
Specifications
- Weight: 16.5 oz
- Eye Relief: 3.6 in
- Reticle: Illuminated BTR-1
- Length: 10.2 in
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Magnification: 1 – 6x
- Material: Aircraft Grade Aluminum
- Exit Pupil: 4 – 24 mm
- Field of View: 100ft @ 1X to 16ft @ 6X
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Throw Down Power Change Lever for easy magnification changes
- Waterproof and fog proof performance
- Shock and impact proof
- Aircraft grade and durable aluminum construction
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- MIL-Based, capped, Non-Locking turrets
- Ultra Wide Band Coating
Cons
- No zero stop
6) NcSTAR STR 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
The NcSTAR STR 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope is a budget-friendly option if you are looking for a versatile, low-power variable optic.
The scope features a Glass etched LPV reticle for low light conditions and quick and precise target acquisition. The 1-6x magnification range allows for quick and easy target acquisition at close range while also providing the ability to make precise shots at longer distances.
The scope has fully multicoated optics for incredible light transmission, a quick focus eyepiece for quick target acquisition, and a black anodized finish for reduced glare, durability, and camouflage when hunting.
Specifications
- Weight: 15.5 oz
- Eye Relief: 3.8 in
- Reticle: Glass Etched LPV
- Length: 9.6 in
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Magnification: 1 – 6x
- Material: Aircraft Grade Aluminum
- Exit Pupil: 4.4 – 13.3 mm
- Field of View: 17.3 – 106.3 ft at 100 yds
Pros
- 5 brightness setting for red/green illumination
- A fast-focus eyepiece
- Anodized finish
- LED illumination
- Aluminum construction
- Fully multi-coated lens
- Target turrets with turret caps.
- One piece 30 mm scope body.
- Easily attaches to Weaver/Picatinny/MIL-STD 1913-type rails
Cons
- Not night vision compatible
7) Firefield RapidStrike 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
The Firefield RapidStrike 1-6×24 Rifle Scope is the best budget LPVO scope for 3-gun competition and shooting close to medium-range targets.
The riflescope features a locking and pop-up feature on finger-adjustable elevation and windage adjustments and a diopter adjustment to properly match the user’s vision, diopter adjustments will make sure the images appear sharp, crisp, and clear.
You also get multi-coated glass for bright and sharp imaging thanks to incredible light transmission, contrast, resolution, and reduced reflection.
The 1-6x magnification range just like in other LPVO scopes allows for quick target acquisition at close range while also providing the ability to make precise shots at longer distances.
Overall, the Firefield RapidStrike 1-6×24 Rifle Scope is a good choice for those on a budget looking for a versatile, reliable optic with an illuminated reticle.
Specifications
- Weight: 14.5 oz
- Eye Relief: 4 in
- Reticle: Circle Dot
- Length: 9.8 in
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Magnification: 1 – 6x
- Material: Aircraft Grade Aluminum
- Exit Pupil: 4 – 24 mm
- Field of View: 102 ft at 100 yds
Pros
- Waterproof, fog proof, and dustproof
- Fully multi-coated optics and anti-reflective glass
- Illuminated reticle
- Finger-adjustable elevation and windage adjustments
- Diopter Adjustment
- 6061-T6 30mm aluminum tube
- 5 brightness settings
- Pop-up locking turrets
Cons
- No sun shade
Read Also: Best LPVO Scopes for AR15 and Hunting
FAQs
What Does LPVO Mean on a Scope?
Low Power Variable Optic.LPVOs are riflescopes with a true 1x magnification, these scopes feature a lower magnification range than a traditional hunting scope. They start at 1x to highs of 4x, 6x, 8x, or even 10x. The 1-6x magnification range is the most popular and standard for LPVOs.
What Range is LPVO Good for?
LPVOs are designed for close to medium-range shooting. With typically a 1-4x,1-6x, or 1-8x magnification range LPVOs have a true 1x magnification which is similar to red dot sights which are known for quick target acquisition and precision at close range. As the magnification increases these scopes become versatile for precise shots at medium or long range.
LPVOs are used for hunting, target shooting, and gun competitions.
Is LPVO better than Red Dot?
LPVO (Low Power Variable Optic) and red dot sights are very popular for close-range applications and quick target acquisition, they both have pros and cons.
LPVO scopes offer a variable magnification typically from a true 1x magnification to 4,6.8 or even 10, a red dot sight on the other handle only features 1x magnification. This makes LPVOs more versatile in that they can be used close to midrange and in different scenarios such as hunting and competition.
LPVO scopes are much heavier than red dot sights and feature a wider field of view. Red dots are lighter and easy to use and the perfect choice for quick and easy target acquisition for close-range engagements. Additionally, a red dot sight is less sensitive to movement and allows the user to keep both eyes open while using it.
To sum it all up LPVO scopes are the best choice if you are looking to do close-range and fast shooting but also want to hit targets out at mid-range distances (500-800 yards) while a red dot is best for close-range (CQB-only).
Looking at all factors an LPVO is better and more versatile.
Is an LPVO Good for Home Defense?
Yes, LPVO scopes cant be used for both close and medium-range home defense needs. The ability to adjust the magnification can be useful in a home defense scenario, as it allows the user to quickly transition between close and long-range targets.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many budget-friendly LPVO options available on the market with the Primary Arms SLx 1-6 x24mm Rifle Scope being the most sort after. The NcSTAR STR 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope and the Firefield RapidStrike 1-6×24 Rifle Scope are the most affordable.
All the above-reviewed scopes are not only affordable but also offer reliable performance for different applications such as hunting and target shooting. They feature a 1-6x magnification range, generous eye relief, a wide field of view, and illuminated reticles that make them easy to use in low-light conditions.
Here is a summary of the best budget LPVO scopes
| 1) Primary Arms SLx 1-6 x24mm Rifle Scope
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| 2) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
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| 3) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm Rifle Scope
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| 4) Atibal XP8 Mirage 1-8x24mm Rifle Scope
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| 5) Bushnell AR Optics 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
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| 6) NcSTAR STR 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
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| 7) Firefield RapidStrike 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
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