11 Best LPVO Scopes(Budget,AR15,Hunting)

Looking for the best LPVO Scope? You came to the right place.

A Low Power Variable Optic (LPVO) is a riflescope whose magnification range starts at 1x and goes to the highest magnification of 4x, 6x, or  8x. These scopes are known for their speed and downrange accuracy and are very popular among AR 15 owners.

If you are in the market for an optic that provides versatile variable zoom power for multiple shooting applications, an LPVO is the way to go. We have put up this review on LPVOs to help you find the appropriate sighting tool for your needs.

With the technological growth in the field of optics, Low Power Variable Optics (LPVOs) have started to dominate the optical market. Today, these versatile optics have grown to become a favorite among instructors, law enforcement officers, and military and civilian shooters.

Adaptability is the reason behind their rapid growth in popularity. With the best LPVO scope, you will have an optic that offers the best balance between the aspects of a traditional scope and a red dot sight. That way, you are able to use one sighting tool for long-range hunting and shooting, and still obtain precise shots at close and medium distances.

What Magnification LPVO Should I get?

LPVO magnification range starts at 1x and goes to the highest magnification of 4x, 6x, 8x, or 10x.

For close-range and fast target acquisition, a 1-4x or 1-6x magnification range is the best option, this range works perfectly for target shooting, hunting, tactical, or defensive situations. With lower magnification, you get a wider field of view which is essential for quick target acquisition.

For longer-range shooting, a higher magnification range, such as 1-8x,1-10x, or 1-12x is a better choice. in higher magnifications, the target appears smaller but with more details, these magnification ranges will work for extended-range target shooting, mid to long-range shooting, precision shooting, and mid to long range or hunting.

Ultimately, the magnification choice is dependent on your needs, preferences, and the type of shooting.

What are LPVO Scopes Good for?

LPVO scopes are great for close-up, fast-action shooting and mid-range distance shooting (500-800 yards)

Best LPVO Scopes

#1) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm Rifle Scope

 

 

The versatility you get from the Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm Rifle Scope is hard to get in any other optic. It adapts easily to any situation where it provides incredible precision at close to long ranges.

This scope is known for its speed and versatility and with its true 1x to 8x magnification, Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm Rifle Scope is the best LPVO scope on the market.

Vortex built this scope to offer supreme durability. It has an aircraft-grade aluminum housing that is shockproof, fog proof, and waterproof to provide unmatched reliability. It is also ultra-light to scatter heavy recoil effectively and optimize durability.

The reticle in this scope is illuminated and glass-etched for added durability and reliability. The fast-focus eyepiece allows quick and straightforward reticle focusing, while the fully multi-coated optics guarantee crisp resolution and image brightness from dawn to dusk.

Specifications

• Magnification: 1 – 8 x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm
• Field of View, Linear: 14.4 – 109 ft at 100 yds
• Length: 10 in
• Weight: 17.6 oz
• Reticle: AR-BDC3
• Eye Relief: 3.5 in
• Exit Pupil: 3 – 24 mm

Pros

• Glass-etched SFP BDC3 reticle for faster target acquisition
• Fast focus eyepiece for quick and easy reticle focusing
• Water and fog-proof performance
• Shockproof for impacts and recoil
• 30mm aircraft grade aluminum tube for durability and versatility
• Fully multi-coated lenses
• 600 yards range
• Matte anodized finish for camouflage and reduced glare
• Comfortable eye relief
• Red LED illumination
• 11 brightness settings
• Lightweight and durable
• Precise aiming under low-light conditions with the illuminated reticle

Cons

• None

Other Vortex LPVO Scopes

• Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm 30mm FFP Rifle Scope
• Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
• Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
• Vortex Crossfire II 1-4x24mm Rifle Scope
• Vortex Viper PST 1-4x24mm Rifle Scope

 

#2) Leupold VX-6HD 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope

 

 

 

This is one of the best AR 15 scopes on the market, whether you are hunting in timber or shooting in open plains this scope will deliver dead-on precision.

This is the best LPVO Scope for close to mid-range shooting, dangerous game, and mountain hunting.

This Leupold scope will deliver HD images thanks to its amazing light transmission and glare-reduction capabilities.

With Leupold’s Professional-Grade Optical System, the 1-6x power will perform exceptionally even in challenging lighting conditions.

Other incredible features include a versatile 6:1 zoom ratio, removable throw lever,in-scope electronic reticle level, and CDS-ZL2 ZeroLock elevation dial.

This scope is designed, machined, and assembled in the USA.

Specifications

• Magnification:1 – 6 x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm
• Field of View, Linear: 123.2 – 20.3 ft at 100 yds
• Length: 10.8 in
• Weight: 13.4 oz
• Reticle: FireDot Duplex
• Eye Relief: 3.7 – 3.82 in
• Exit Pupil: 4 – 24 mm

Pros

• Guard-Ion Rain Shedding optical coating
• Waterproof and fog proof
• Extended Battery Life
• Shockproof for impact and recoil
• Made in the USA
• Extreme Fast-Focus Eyepiece
• Reversible Throw Lever
• Illuminated reticle
• 8 brightness settings
• Twilight Max Light Management System
• Generous eyebox
• 6:1 Zoom Ratio

Cons

• No side focus
• No adjustable objective

 

#3) Swampfox Arrowhead LPVO 1-10x24mm Rifle Scope

 

 

 

This Swampfox Arrowhead LPVO 1-10x24mm Rifle Scope harbors a vast array of modern features and premium quality construction that makes it one of the best LPVO scopes out there.

Featuring a state-of-the-art optical design, the scope creates a bright sight picture and offers excellent resolution to ensure that it performs when you need it the most. Besides, it offers a wide field of view across the broad 1-10x magnification power for rapid target identification.

The scope houses all its high-end features in a 30mm main tube that is impact resistant and built to last. It has an IPX-7 water resistance level for all-weather use and fog-proof optics to provide a clean field of view even in adverse weather conditions.

This lightweight LPVO also boasts a second focal plane reticle that is illuminated to optimize its visibility in low-light settings.

Specifications

• Magnification:1 – 10 x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm
• Field of View, Linear: 11.5 – 115.6 ft at 100 yds
• Length: 10.67 in
• Weight: 20.3 oz
• Reticle: Illuminated BDC/MIL /BDC/MOA/MOA Illuminated
• Eye Relief: 3.46 – 3.54 in
• Exit Pupil: 2.3 – 8 mm

Pros

• 12 brightness settings
• 30mm main tube diameter
• Fully multi-coated lenses
• 1,100 G Forces impact resistance
• IPX-7 water resistant
• Fog proof and shockproof
• Fast focus diopter
• Second focal plane reticle
• Great glass quality and clarity
• Tactile locking turrets
• Illuminated reticle with auto-ranging
• Push/Pull Locking Turrets with Zero Reset

Cons

• Doesn’t come with scope rings

 

#4) Bushnell AR Optics 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope

 

 

 

Adding this Bushnell AR Optics 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope on your favorite rifle will fine-tune your skills and ensure that every shot you fire lands on the target accurately.

The high-performance 6x optical system ensures that the scope performs at its best when you need it the most. Besides, there are two throw-down power change levers provided for fast and easy magnification adjustment.

This rifle scope has an illuminated BTR-1 BDC reticle that is easy to use even in low-light conditions. This reticle is glass-etched to enhance its shock resistance and has drop points to provide precise shooting out to 500 yards.

Moreover, the scope has a rugged build quality to withstand bumps and rough handling. The turrets are capped to provide additional protection in the field and prevent accidental adjustments.

To top it all off, the scope has a waterproof and fog-proof construction which protects the optics from damage by elements.

Specifications

• Magnification:1 – 6 x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm
• Field of View, Linear: 1 – 6 ft at 100 ft
• Length: 10.2 in
• Weight: 16.5 oz
• Reticle: Illuminated BTR-1
• Eye Relief: 3.6 in
• Exit Pupil: 4 – 24 mm

Pros

• Capped turrets
• 30mm main tube
• Second focal plane reticle
• Fully multi-coated lens
• Waterproof and fog proof construction
• 1-6x magnification power
• Long eye relief
• Lightweight and compact design
• Crisp clear glass
• Solid build quality
• Decent price

Cons

• Fixed parallax

 

#5) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope

 

 

 

Vortex is a highly respected brand that prides itself on making quality and cost-effective optics.

The Viper PST Gen II 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope is updated to be a highly functional and intuitive sighting tool suitable for all your hunting and target shooting needs.

Featuring a 30mm main tube diameter, the scope provides ample room for adjustments and ensures easy installation.

It has a long eye relief for comfortable observation, with or without spectacles, and a fast-focus eyepiece that allows for easy reticle focusing.

Constructed from a solid piece of aircraft-quality aluminum, the scope will take in the beating and withstand rigorous use.

Furthermore, the 30mm main tube is O-ring sealed and argon purged to be fully waterproof and fog proof.

The scope also boasts built-in accuracy features that facilitate fast and accurate shooting, and an illuminated reticle to ensure precise aiming under low-light settings.

Specifications

• Magnification:1 – 6 x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm
• Field of View, Linear:18.8 – 112.5 ft at 100 yds
• Length: 10.9 in
• Weight: 22.7 oz
• Reticle: VMR-2 MRAD / VMR-2 MOA
• Eye Relief:3.8 in
• Exit Pupil: 4 – 24 mm

Pros

• Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof
• Fast focus eyepiece
• Second focal plane reticle
• XD lens elements
• Aircraft-quality aluminum housing
• XR fully multi-coated lenses
• Reticle illumination
• Crisp clear glass
• Comfortable eye relief

Cons

• Slightly heavy

 

#6) SIG SAUER TANGO-MSR LPVO 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope

 

 

If you are looking for a cost-effective LPVO scope that checks all the boxes required for hunting and shooting, you have found it in the SIG SAUER TANGO-MSR LPVO 1-6x24mm which is the best budget LPVO scope.

It is tailored to MSRs where it provides quick engagement and target acquisition.

This LPVO scope is made to be indestructible. It has dependable shockproof housing that is fully waterproof and fog proof. Better yet, it has a hard coat anodized finish that adds durability by shielding the scope from scratches and abrasions.

Moreover, the scope is built with a high-performance 6x optical system with low-dispersion glass.

It also boasts an illuminated second focal plane reticle with 11 brightness settings and a built-in throw lever that allows for quick magnification changes.

Specifications

• Magnification:1 – 6 x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm
• Field of View, Linear:19.6 – 124.8 ft at 100 yds
• Length: 10.9 in
• Weight: 18.5 oz
• Reticle: MSR BDC6
• Eye Relief:3.74 – 3.93 in
• Exit Pupil: 4.5 – 10.5 mm

Pros

• Spectracoat lens coating
• IPX-7 is waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof
• 6x optical system
• Premium quality low dispersion glass
• Rear focal plane reticle
• Bright and quality glass
• Illuminated reticle
• Easy to use
• 11 brightness settings

Cons

• Fixed parallax

 

#7) SIG SAUER TANGO-MSR LPVO 1-10x28mm Rifle Scope

 

 

 

The SIG SAUER TANGO-MSR LPVO1-10X28mm Rifle Scope is a great option for hunters and gun enthusiasts looking for a lightweight and multifunction LPVO.

The scope has a high-performance 10x optical system and a large 34mm main tube that maximizes room for internal adjustments.

Another stand-out feature of this LPVO is the solid construction that guarantees longevity. It has a shockproof body tube that is coated with a hard anodized finish to provide extra protection from corrosion and rust.

It is also IPX-7 water-resistant, dustproof, and fog-proof for all-weather use.

Other noteworthy features included are an illuminated reticle, built-in thread in throw lever, and a lay-flat flip-back lens cover.

Specifications

• Magnification:1 – 10 x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 28 mm
• Tube Diameter: 34 mm
• Field of View, Linear: 10 – 110 ft at 100 yds
• Length: 10.9 in
• Weight: 20.4 oz
• Reticle: MSR BDC10
• Eye Relief:3.22 – 3.54 in
• Exit Pupil: 2.8 – 9 mm

Pros

• Spectracoat lens coating
• Second focal plane reticle
• Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof
• 11 brightness settings
• Low dispersion glass
• Reticle illumination
• Turrets with crisp adjustment
• Solid mount

Cons

• None

 

#8) Swampfox Arrowhead LPVO 1-8x24mm Rifle Scope

 

 

Next up, we have the Swampfox Arrowhead LPVO 1-8x24mm Rifle Scope. This is a highly versatile LPVO scope that is ideal for target shooting, self-defense applications, and law enforcement applications among others.

It has locking turrets to prevent unintentional adjustments in the field. The supreme optical design coupled with the fully multi-coated lenses provides high-quality sight pictures and excellent resolution from dawn to dusk.

Furthermore, the scope has a fast-focus diopter and an illuminated reticle that stays clean and visible in any lighting condition. It is also tested and proven to be impact-resistant and IPX-7 water-resistant for greater durability and all-weather reliability.

Specifications

• Magnification:1 – 8 x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm
• Length: 10.61 in
• Weight: 20.3 oz
• Reticle: BDC
• Eye Relief:3.35 – 3.54 in
• Exit Pupil: 7.7 – 2.5 mm

Pros

• Push/pull locking turrets
• Impact resistant
• Fast focus diopter
• Second focal plane reticle
• Fog-proof and IPX-7 water resistant
• Durable and reliable construction
• Smooth magnification
• Illuminated reticle
• Good optics

Cons

• None

 

#9) Monstrum G3 1-3x24mm FFP LPVO Rifle Scope

 

 

For close and mid-range hunting and shooting, the Monstrum G3 1-3x24mm FFP LPVO Rifle Scope is your best FFP LPVO scope.

It has a first focal plane reticle for quick range estimation and holdover correction.

With a mere weight of 16oz only, the scope has a lightweight design to ensure that it doesn’t come in your way of shooting or affect your rifle’s accuracy.

Construction-wise, it is made from 6061-T6 aircraft-quality aluminum which is tough enough to handle rigorous use. The scope also has a Type III hard anodized finish that makes it impervious to scratches.

For all-weather reliability, this LPVO scope is water-resistant and nitrogen sealed. It also features fully multi-coated lenses to ensure that adequate light is transmitted in low-light settings.

Specifications

• Magnification:1 – 3 x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm
• Length: 9.8 in
• Weight: 16 oz
• Reticle: FFP X1
• Eye Relief:4 – 4.5 in

Pros

• All-brass mechanics
• X1 first focal plane MOA reticle
• Type III hard anodized finish
• Water-resistant and nitrogen sealed
• Variable 1-3x magnification
• Long eye relief
• Inexpensive
• Clear glass
• Holds zero well

Cons

• For use at close and medium ranges only

 

#10) Swampfox Arrowhead LPVO 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope

 

 

 

The Swampfox Arrowhead LPVO 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope is the best LPVO for an AR platform.

It has a variable 1-6x magnification for close and medium-range engagement across vast environments.

With the true 1x setting, the scope provides for fast target acquisition while maintaining your situational awareness.

The fully multi-coated optics provide bright sight pictures all through, while the locking turrets lock in different positions to prevent unwanted adjustments.

Furthermore, the scope has an IPX-7 water resistance level so you can use it even in adverse weather conditions. It also features an illuminated reticle with 12 brightness settings, 2 of which are night-vision compatible.

Specifications

• Magnification:1 – 6 x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm
• Field of View, Linear:119.9 – 19.27 ft at 100 yds
• Length: 10.67 in
• Weight: 20.3 oz
• Reticle: IR MOA
• Eye Relief:3.5 in

Pros

• Premium optical design
• True 1x settings
• Push/pull locking turrets
• 12 reticle illumination brightness levels
• Matte finish
• Fully multi-coated lenses
• Night vision compatible
• Bright and clear optics
• High build quality

Cons

• Mount not included

 

#11) Primary Arms SLx 1-8x24mm Rifle Scope

 

 

If you are looking for an LPVO scope that is accurate from 0-800 yards, look no further than the Primary Arms SLx 1-8x24mm Rifle Scope.

It combines bullet drop compensation, wind holds and moving target leads to give you the ultimate targeting system.

Featuring a single-piece 6063 aluminum construction, the scope is sturdy enough to weather whatever you throw at it. The 30mm tube is also shockproof, fog proof, and waterproof to be operable in different weather conditions.

Moreover, fully multi-coated lenses provide bright and crisp image views, by maximizing light transfer. The scope also features red reticle illumination with 12 brightness settings.

Specifications

• Magnification:1 – 8 x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm
• Field of View, Linear:110 – 14.5 ft at 100 yds
• Length: 10.4 in
• Weight: 16 oz
• Reticle: ACSS 5.56 / 5.45 / .308
• Eye Relief:3.3 – 3.5 in

Pros

• Second focal plane ACSS reticle
• Hard anodized matte finish
• Waterproof and fog-resistant
• 1-6x variable magnification
• Fully multi-coated lenses
• 6061 aluminum housing
• Durable construction
• Great glass quality
• Holds zero well
• Illuminated reticle

Cons

• The eye relief gets shorter with an increase in magnification

 

Related: 7 Best AR 15 Deer Hunting Scopes

 

Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best LPVO Scope

Reticle

LPVOs have different reticle designs suitable for different applications. Because LPVO scopes are used across different ranges, you will need a reticle that stays clear at every zoom setting. The reticle should also be easy to use and illuminated if you will be using the scope in low-light conditions.

Glass Quality

Glass quality has a significant impact on the scope’s overall optical performance. It influences resolution, color richness, and image sharpness. Go for the best glass quality you can afford. On top of that, get a scope that has proper lens coatings, preferably fully multi-coated lenses.

Eye Relief

Eye relief is one of the features that make LPVOs stand out. Unlike most long-range scopes that feature short eye relief, the eye relief in LPVOs is significantly more generous. But not all LPVOs have long eye relief. So, ensure that you get a model that offers accommodating eye relief.

Durability

Look for an LPVO scope that is built to withstand the rough handling you will subject it to. A scope that is well-built and durable will ensure that you use it reliably in any environment and get many years of hunting and shooting from it. The best LPVO scope should also be waterproofed and fog proof.

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Does the Military use LPVO?

Yes, the military uses LPVO scopes in different situations and applications. LPVOs are popular with the military because of their versatility and reliability in quick target acquisition and close to medium-range prowess, the ability to adjust these scopes for long-range makes them ideal for combat applications and training scenarios.

LPVO scopes are used on rifles such as M4, M16, and other assault and marksman rifles. With rugged construction, easy turret adjustments, easy-to-read reticles, and incredible performance even in low-light conditions make LPVO scopes a choice for the military.

Can you Hunt with an LPVO?

Yes, you can hunt with an LPVO scope, of the many uses of LPVO scopes hunting is very common, especially with AR15s. These scopes will offer you as a hunter a quick acquisition at close to medium-range combination while still giving you the ability to adjust to long-range shooting when needed, that’s how versatile an LPVO scope is.

LPVO scopes can be used for elk, deer, varmints, predator, and big game hunting. The wide range of magnification, from 1-4x, 1-6x,1-8x,1-10x, or even 1-12x allows for a variety of hunting scenarios and ranges. If you are hunting in low-light conditions you will require a scope with an illuminated reticle, higher magnification, and larger objective lens for ample light collection and transmission.

What LPVO do Special Forces/Marines use?

The United States Army Special Forces( Green Berets) use the Trijicon VCOG (Variable Combat Optical Gunsight), which is a 1-6x24mm LPVO that features superior glass quality, zero image distortion, forged aircraft-aluminum-alloy housing, built-in rangefinder reticle, and long-lasting battery.

The Aimpoint PRO (Patrol Rifle Optic) is also used by special forces, it is more of red dot sight with a true 1x magnification and a 2 MOA  reticle, long battery life, aluminum construction, unlimited eye relief,10 brightness settings and perfect for AR15, M4 Carbine, and M16 Rifles.

Another Special Forces LPVO scope is the Nightforce ATACR (NightForce ATACR 1-8×24 34mm FFP Rifle Scope) the notable features are ZeroStop and Hi-Speed technologies, DigIllum illuminated reticle, and durable Aluminum construction.

Is LPVO better than Red Dot?

An LPVO scope has a variable magnification while a red dot has fixed 1x magnification. With the LPVO’s variable magnification, the shooter is able to adjust the magnification to different needs ie from close range to medium or even long range. on the other hand, a red dot’s magnification is only used for close quarters.

LPVOs have reticles that can be used for ranging and holdover for accuracy at long-range applications while red dot sights have a dot projected on the field of view making them perfect for quick acquisition at close to medium range.

Red dot sights are easy to use with both eyes open which is not the case with LPVO scopes.

Both options have their own set of benefits and drawbacks, and the best choice will depend on the specific needs of the shooter and the intended use of the rifle.

What LPVO has the Best Eye Relief?

Eye relief is best described as the distance between the scope’s eyepiece and the shooter’s eye at which the field of view can be seen in its entirety.

The longer the eye relief the better as it is more comfortable and prevents injury from recoil impact, it also allows for natural head and eye movement.

LPVO scopes with the best Eye Relief include:

• Monstrum G3 1-3x24mm FFP LPVO Rifle Scope-4.5 in
• Vortex Viper PST 1-4x24mm Rifle Scope-4 in
• Vortex Crossfire II 1-4x24mm Rifle Scope-4 in
• SIG SAUER TANGO-MSR LPVO 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope-3.93 in
• Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm FFP Rifle Scope- 3.9 in
• Leupold VX-6HD 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope-3.82 in
• Bushnell AR Optics 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope- 3.6 in
• Swampfox Arrowhead LPVO 1-10x24mm Rifle Scope- 3.54 in

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Conclusion

LPVO scopes are excellent for a wide range of applications, including hunting, recreational shooting, and self-defense. In addition to being versatile, they are easy to use and great for hunters and gun enthusiasts of all skill levels.

Hopefully, this post will help you find the best LPVO scope that will help you excel in your next shooting or hunting excursion.

It’s important to remember that every LPVO scope is designed for a specific use, and what makes a good LPVO will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Before you get a rifle scope it is always a good idea to read reviews, research the product and if possible, test the LPVO before making a purchase.

Read Also

• 6 Best Vortex Scopes for AR (AR 15 /AR 10)
• 5 Best LPVO Scopes for AR15