This roundup is for readers who already know they want a low power variable optic and need help choosing a specific model. The picks below focus on budget, hunting, home-defense, and duty-style rifle setups.
Need the basics first? Start with our LPVO scopes guide. Want a full hands-on review of a current 1-6x option? Read our Primary Arms SLx 1-6x24mm LPVO review.
Quick LPVO picks
| Pick | Best for | Why it made the list |
|---|---|---|
| Vortex Crossfire II 1-4×24 | Budget LPVO | Simple, compact, affordable, and practical for close-to-mid-range use. |
| Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 FFP | Hunting LPVO | More magnification, a usable first focal plane reticle, and a strong field/range fit. |
| Trijicon Credo 1-6×24 SFP | Home-defense or general-purpose rifle | Durable build, useful magnification range, and strong reliability reputation. |
| Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 | Premium duty-style LPVO | High-end glass, rugged build, and serious performance for users who can justify the price. |
How to use this roundup
Do not pick an LPVO by magnification range alone. The best choice depends on how the rifle will be used, how much weight you can accept, whether the reticle is easy to use, and whether the optic feels fast at low power.
The short reviews below keep the focus on each optic’s role. For the full buying framework, including magnification ranges, focal-plane choices, eye box, illumination, and mounting considerations, use the main LPVO scopes guide.
LPVO scope reviews
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!
For a newer hands-on 1-6x test, also read our Primary Arms SLx 1-6x24mm SFP LPVO Rifle Scope Gen IV review. For readers still deciding between optic types, see LPVO vs fixed scope.