Looking for an rifle optic that can do both CQB and long range?
Here are some of the best low powered variable optic for AR and other platforms on the market today based on magnification, size, reticle and price.
Best LPVO For CQB
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Vortex 1-10X Gen 3 FFP - Best 1-10X Overall
The choice of this low-power variable optic, the RAZOR HD Gen 3 1-10X, is driven by its exceptional ability to bridge the gap between close-quarters combat (CQB) and long-range precision, making it an ideal choice for the DD5 and similar platforms.
With a magnification power increased to 10X, this scope excels in merging the capabilities of a mid-range LPVO with those of a long-range precision scope, all without compromising size, clarity, or field of view.
Its features include a moving target hold feature, which allows for accurate leading of moving targets using dotted target holds, eliminating guesswork. Furthermore, the fast 1X target acquisition is facilitated by three inward arrows that swiftly draw the eye to the illuminated center reticle, ensuring quick and precise aiming at 1X magnification.
Additionally, for rapid range estimation, one can simply superimpose the hashmarked ranging subtension lines onto the target, providing immediate information on target distance, as well as holdover and windage corrections.
With a lifetime, unconditional warranty, Vortex promises to replace the optic at no cost in case of any damage or issues, guaranteeing long-term peace of mind for users.
Features:
- Magnification: 1-10X
- Objective Lens: 24mm
- Focal Plane: First Focal
- Tube Size: 34mm
- Reticle Type: EBR 9
- Turret Type: Capped
- Length: 10.1 inches
- Weight: 21.5 oz
- Low capped Turrets
- Fixed Parallax to 150 yards
Vortex Viper PST 1-4X SFP - Best 1-4X LPVO
The 1-4X variable optic is a compelling choice, offering a balanced blend of affordability and performance, backed by the esteemed reputation of Vortex Optics. Designed with competition shooters in mind, this scope boasts a one-piece aluminum construction for durability and reliability.
Its illuminated TMCQ MOA reticle provides full-ranging and holdover capabilities, making it suitable for day or night use. The tool-less turret adjustment system, complete with a zero-stop index point, simplifies zeroing adjustments without causing confusion in turret rotations.
With the XR low dispersion glass ensuring optimal image sharpness, you'll have a clear and crisp view of your target. Additionally, Vortex's lifetime, unconditional warranty means they'll replace it at no cost if you ever encounter any issues. This makes the 1-4X variable optic an excellent choice for various shooting applications, offering both quality and peace of mind.
Features:
- Magnification: 1-4X
- Objective Lens: 24mm
- Focal Plane: SFP
- Tube Size: 30 mm
- Eye Relief: 4"
- Click Value: 0.5 MOA
- Reticle Type: TMCQ MOA
- Turret Type: Capped
- Length: 9.7 inches
- Weight: 16 oz
- Tactical Turrets
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Trijicon AccuPower 1-8X28 - Best Overall 1-8X
Both competition shooters and hunters are fervent admirers of the Trijicon AccuPower 1-8X28 for its superior optical quality, low-light performance, and unmatched optic clarity.
Among the various 1-8X scopes available, the Trijicon AccuPower's 34mm tube size is one of the very few that can deliver a substantial field of view and generous eye relief, especially at 8X magnification.
Moreover, the ease of adjusting tactical turrets by hand while on the move is a standout feature, making it an excellent choice for high-speed tactical shooters. Lastly, the first focal plane reticle dynamically adjusts with changes in magnification, providing the shooter with the most accurate ranging and holdover capabilities possible.
Features:
- 1-8X Magnification
- Exit Pupils (3.5 - 11.8mm)
- Eye Relief (4 - 3.9 in)
- Weighs 27 oz
- 34mm tube
- 28mm Objective lens
- First Focal Plane
- Segmented Crosshair Reticle
- Turrets (0.25 MOA / Click)
Steiner M8Xi - Best For Military Applications
The reason why spec ops chose the Steiner M8Xi scope is because it is the ultimate military-grade, purpose-built Low Power Variable Optic (LVPO). If you are seeking the best option for your tactical Short Barrel Rifle (SBR), this scope is the top choice.
It boasts exceptional durability, and its compact design offers more space to mount night vision and thermal devices in front of the objective lens, without overcrowding the front of the rifle with accessories.
Although Steiner scopes may not be as commonly discussed in the civilian market, apart from their laser and IR products, we are pleased to introduce this exceptional option to you.
The finer adjustment provided by the MIL-dot reticle is preferred for precision shooting, and all Steiner optics adhere to the European milliradian (mRAD) system. Once you invest the time to learn how to utilize an mRAD scope, its precision surpasses that of MOA scopes.
The large and easy-to-operate tactical turrets on the Steiner M8Xi are another remarkable feature. Shooters can make elevation and windage adjustments with precision, clearly hearing and feeling each click. After completing adjustments, simply push down the turret cap to lock it in place, and turret zero indicators are conveniently built in.
While it is also suitable for 3-gun competitions, there are more budget-friendly options available for that purpose. However, for anyone, especially those actively using their rifles with thermal and night vision devices, the Steiner M8Xi stands out as the best combat LVPO for serious tactical applications.
Features:
- 1-8X Magnification
- Exit Pupils (3.5 - 11.8mm)
- Eye Relief (4 - 3.9 in)
- Weighs 28 oz
- 34mm tube
- 24mm Objective lens
- First Focal Plane
- DMR Reticle (Multi Caliber)
- Tac Turrets (0.1 MIL / Click)
Primary Arms SFP 1-8X24 - Best LPVO For The Money
We chose the Primary Arms - the SFP 1-8X24 as the best LPVO under $500 due to its excellent value for the money, and it's also the lightest LPVO suitable for beginners.
What we particularly appreciate about this budget-friendly LPVO optic are its price point and the inclusion of the ACSS reticle. The ACSS reticle provides shooters with a straightforward reference point within the crosshair, facilitating range estimation.
This reticle is highly suitable for novice shooters to start with. Additionally, a noteworthy feature is the inclusion of the moving target holdover reticle, which aids in accurately engaging moving targets at extended distances.
It's important to note that the ACSS reticle's accuracy is only maintained at 8X magnification, as this scope operates as a second focal plane scope. So for anyone wanting to use this for long range precision shooting, this may not be a preferred option.
Features:
- ACSS (5.56 / 5.45 / .308) illuminated reticle
- Capped turrets (0.5 MOA/Click)
- 30mm Tube
- Weighs (16.9 oz)
- Second Focal Plane
- 24mm Objective Lens
- 1-8X magnification
- Exit Pupil (9mm @ 1X, 3mm @ 8X)
- Eye Relief (3.3 - 3.5")
Best known price $399, at OpticsPlanet
Vortex Razor HD 1-6X24 Gen 2 - Best For 3 Gun
The Vortex Razor HD 1-6X24 stands out as the best 1x6 scope among various other models.
What sets the Razor HD apart is its exceptional glass clarity, extending from edge to edge. Even at 6X magnification, the image remains remarkably sharp, avoiding the blurriness that can be found in other scopes.
Upon picking up and peering through this 21.5 oz scope, the difference is palpable.
At 1X magnification, the Razor 1-6X provides a nearly identical experience to that of a 1X red dot sight. However, it's important to maintain a consistent cheekweld and sight acquisition, as deviating too far from the center may introduce scope shadows. With practice, achieving this sweet spot becomes second nature, rendering the shadow a non-issue.
In sum, when compared to a multitude of other options, the only drawback of the Razor 1-6X is its weight, which may not be the lightest. Nevertheless, its overall exceptional qualities more than compensate for this minor inconvenience.
Features:
- 1-6X Magnification
- Exit Pupils (4 - 24mm)
- Eye Relief (4 in)
- Weighs 21.5 oz
- 30mm tube
- 24mm Objective lens
- Second Focal Plane
- JM-1 BDC & VMR-2MRAD Reticles
- Capped Turrets (0.25 MOA / Click)
EOTECH Vudu 1-6X24 FFP - Best LPVO For CQB
This is EOTECH's newest, and one of the best 1-6 LPVO for CQB. It works great on semi auto or bolt action rifles. Here are couple great features especially the new reticle design:
Multiple Reticle Options - Choose between 3 different reticles (SR1, SR2 or SR3)
Lightest 1-6 Scope - Better quality and still doesn't compromise weight increase
EOTech Reticle Meets LPVO - The iconic 68 MOA holographic reticle works as is on 1X. At max magnification, the BDC speed ring comes into view for more precise aiming (SR2 or SR3 reticle)
Wind Correction - Same 68 MOA ring as the EOTech HWS with wind and BDC holds (Vortex 1-10X was a great choice until EOTech came up with this!)
High Quality Glass - Same glass quality as other major optics companies (Made in Japan)
Common FAQ
Does It Matter - 6X vs 8X
It doesn't matter which one you choose, but when it comes to distance shooting and dealing with low light, an 8X magnification is consistently superior to a 6X magnification in terms of target identification during daylight, albeit it comes at a higher cost.
If you opt for the 8X magnification, ensure that the glass is clear and its low-light performance is not inferior to the 6X you are comparing it to side by side. If the 6X performs better in these aspects, then go with the 6X.
There are other factors to consider as well:
- Eye box
- Field of view
- Glass quality
- Price
- Reticle
- Aesthetic appeal
- Weight
- Tactical turret designs
For individuals with access to long-distance shooting ranges and engaging in exciting activities, the 8X option may be worth the slightly higher expense as magnification increases.
We strongly recommend visiting a local store and personally testing the optics before making a decision. Optics are products that you must physically evaluate to gauge their quality.
Tube Size For a LPVO Sight
30mm is the most common scope size in the industry, but a 34mm tube provides several performance advantages including:
- Much wider field of view and eye box for 1X action with a LPVO
- More adjustment clicks
Close Quarter Eye Relief VS Red Dot Eye Relief
The eye relief at 1X on an LPVO is not exactly the same as on a red dot sight. The most significant distinction is that the LPVO scope exhibits shadowing as the head position nears the edge of the eye box.
Indeed, the eye box is present for an LPVO, but it is absent in a 1X red dot sight.
The eye relief distance for a red dot sight is unlimited, whereas most low-power variable optics feature a generous eye box.