LPVO stands for Low Powered Variable Optics. These optics first saw use by the United States military. They have grown more and more popular ever since. LPVO scopes start at 1x power (non-magnified) and can range all the way up to 10x on the higher end of the spectrum.
Benefits of LPVO Scopes
- They offer quick target acquisition like a red dot sight.
- You also get long distance shooting with their magnification.
LPVO Scope Reviews
If you want to get a new LPVO scope for yourself, you may be in for a shock when it comes to the number of options. Luckily you have come to the right place. Let’s go over some of the best LPVO scopes on the market to help narrow down your search!
Here are the best LPVO scopes I’ve tested and will review today:
- Vortex Crossfire II 1-4×24 (Best Budget LPVO Scope)
- Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 FFP (Best Hunting LPVO Scope)
- Trijicon Credo 1-6×24 SFP (Best Home Defense LPVO Scope)
- Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 (Best Military LPVO Scope)
1. Vortex Crossfire II 1-4×24 Review
Vortex has always produced quality optics at affordable prices. Their Crossfire II 1-4×24 LPVO scope is no exception. This scope comes with 1-4x magnification. It’s a good choice for close to mid-range distances. Use this scope for defense, hunting, or target practice out on the range.
What I like most about the Vortex Crossfire (besides its great price) is how small and compact it is. Its small size makes it hardly noticeable on the gun, and lower weight. If you want a lightweight scope that won’t break the bank, this one might be it!
The Vortex Crossfire LPVO scope is extremely affordable. It also comes with an unconditional Vortex warranty. You can put this scope up against those that cost a lot more, and get similar results. The only thing I would change about my Vortex Crossfire is its brightness levels. They could be better. Besides that, I have had no other complaints!
2. Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 FFP Review
It is no surprise to see another Vortex on our list, although this one is a few tiers higher than a Crossfire. The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 is one of Vortex’s first FFP (first focal plane) LPVO scopes. It takes quality and features to a whole new level. I found that this scope was easy to mount to my rifle, easy to get started with, and super bright.
An FFP scope may not be for everyone, but the Strike Eagle makes it easy to use regardless. Being an FFP scope, the reticle gets very small at 1 and 2x magnifications. But the center dot and 12 MOA ring shrink to give you a red dot appearance at shorter ranges. The new EBR-8 reticule helps shoot out to longer ranges.
This scope is my choice for hunting purposes, as it is very easy to use no matter what magnification you have it on. You can easily change the magnification power on the fly. From hunting coyotes to wild hogs, this rifle scope is an excellent tool for medium to long ranges.
3. Trijicon Credo 1-6×24 SFP
Trijicon makes some excellent sights, and many would consider them to be bomb-proof. The Trijicon Credo is no exception, providing great value and performance. My favorite is the 1-6×24 SFP, and think this is the ultimate home defense or SHTF LPVO scope. You want something that is durable and reliable for these things, and this scope will live up to the test.
Along with the traditional Trijicon quality, you get excellent eye relief. You also get different reticles to choose from. I went with the SFP model as it was more affordable, although it is available in FFP as well. You can also choose between 1-6x magnification and 1-4x.
Regardless of what choice you make each variant includes:
– ¼ MOA turret adjustments
– An easy-to-use power knob
– A scope coat to keep it all protected when not in use.
A home defense scope needs to be versatile and reliable, both of which the Credo delivers. This scope is a popular choice amongst cops, military, and hunters. There isn’t a lot that this scope can’t do. It makes an excellent option for a do-it-all, home defense scope on your rifle.
4. Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24
The U.S. military doesn’t mess around when it comes to optics on their guns. If they are using something, you might want to pay attention. I got my chance to test out the Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 scope on my buddy’s Ar-15 and was immediately blown away. I knew Nightforce created some of the best scopes in the world. But I didn’t expect this scope to be so bright and clear when shooting.
This lpvo scope is the pick for U.S. Special Operations and is FFP. The reticule is easy to see and use. Nightforce made this scope as durable as possible and can withstand anything. It’s waterproof, shockproof, and pretty much bomb proof. But I didn’t get to put that aspect of the scope to the test. I was very impressed with the crisp magnification settings and the nice eye relief..
I found that the 1-8x magnification was more than adequate to shoot out to a couple of hundred yards. Although I’m not the best shot, it helped me stay on target nearly every time. Even if you are not in the military, this scope is a great option. It can handle hunting, self-defense, or a combination of everything. The only thing I don’t like about it is the big price tag!
Final Thoughts
LPVO scopes are incredibly versatile and offer so many different benefits to shooters who use them. With more and more companies starting to produce these scopes, there are plenty of great options out there to suit your every need. The LPVO scopes I have covered here are my favorite picks, but there are even more out there!Â