We are pleased to showcase the best LPVO scopes for AR-15. Harboring innovative and beneficial features, these optics will deliver the most precise performance when paired with AR-15.
Low Power Variable Optics or LPVOs as they are commonly known are rifle scopes designed for close and mid-range shooting scenarios. Most models will start from 1x and go up to 6x magnification, but some models can go as high as 10x.
LPVO scopes are mainly used for hunting, recreational target shooting and plinking. When looking for the best LPVO scope, it is important that you first determine what you intend to use it for so you can get the best model possible.
Best LPVO Scopes for AR-15-Our Top Picks
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Sig Sauer Tango MSR LPVO 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope |
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Swampfox Arrowhead LPVO 1-8x24mm Rifle Scope |
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Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm Rifle Scope |
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Athlon Optics Ares ETR 1-10 x 28 mm Rifle Scope |
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NightForce ATACR 1-8×24 F1 Scope
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Steiner T5Xi 1-5×24 mm SFP Rifle Scope |
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Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10x24mm Rifle Scope |
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Trijicon AccuPoint TR-24 1-4x24mm Rifle Scope |
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What Makes a Great LPVO Scope?
When you want the very best low-power variable optic without compromise, you must pay attention to some attributes of a rifle scope. Firstly, LPVO scopes should allow confident aiming in any light making reticle illumination a crucial consideration when searching for an LPVO scope.
The other characteristic of an LPVO is solid construction. The best LPVO scopes should be engineered to withstand extreme hunting conditions. The tube housing the optics should be made of high-quality materials and tested to match military standards. Shock resistance and weatherproof capabilities are also mandatory in LPVO scopes.
When it comes to optics, the scope should feature a state-of-the-art optical system. Superb glass and lens coating are important in optimizing light transmission to give the shooter the brightest images at any time of day.
Lastly, LPVO scopes should be easy to use. User-friendly controls help simplify matters when in the field. The turrets should be easily accessed by hand and smooth when dialing. The windage and elevation adjusters should also be capped to prevent accidental dials after zeroing in the scope.
8 Best LPVO Scopes for AR-15 & Tactical Carbines
In this post, we have compiled a list of the best LPVO scopes that are currently available on the market. These scopes are quality, dependable and suitable for a wide range of applications. Let’s take a look.
1) Sig Sauer Tango MSR LPVO 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
Sig Sauer Tango MSR LPVO 1-6x24mm is one of the best LPVO scopes out there. It is a high-quality rifle scope that offers top performance thanks to the amazingly reliable features it presents.
Tango-MSR 1-6x24mm Riflescope harbors an array of incredible features making it one of the best LPVO scopes for close combat scenarios.
The scope features an adjustable magnification from 1x to 6x and an integrated thread-in throw lever that aids in quick magnification adjustments. With the premium low-dispersion glass, the scope provides industry-leading light transmission for exceptional clarity in any situation.
It also boats an illuminated BDC reticle with 11 brightness levels for precision aiming in different lighting environments. Another outstanding feature of the scope is the high-quality housing.
This LPVO scope is shockproof to stand up to impacts and recoil from high-caliber weapons. Besides, it is designed to provide dependable waterproof and fog-proof performance.
It also has a hard coat anodized finish which reduces glare to camouflage your position when hunting under direct sunlight. Across all the magnification powers, the reticle is very clear and images remain sharp.
Surely, the Tango-MSR 1-6x24mm riflescope is a front-runner among the best LPVO scope and overall, a great scope that offers excellent value for money. Mount this scope on your weapon and experience the difference quality optics make.
Features
- High-performance optical system
- 1-6x magnification range
- 30mm main tube
- Second focal plane reticle
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- Hard coat anodized finish
- Spectracoat optical coating
Pros
- Illuminated reticle with 11 brightness settings
- Top-notch image quality
- Lightweight design
- Throw lever included
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Illumination is not bright in broad daylight
2) Swampfox Arrowhead LPVO 1-8x24mm Rifle Scope
If you are in the market for a quality workhorse LPVO optic, this is it. It meets and exceeds every requirement for hunters, shooters and law enforcement officials. Superb glass is just the icing on the cake that cements Swampfox Arrowhead 1-8×24 SFP riflescopes as the best LPVO scopes.
An advanced optical system helps maintain image brightness across all magnification powers. A forgiving eye box facilitates quick target acquisition and a throw lever allows swift power switches.
This scope has a 30mm tube that is fully waterproof and fogproof for use in any weather condition. It is also shockproof to stand heavy recoil, impacts and anything nature throws at it. Even after firing many shots, the riflescope will not lose its zero.
Furthermore, it boasts fully multi-coated optics that optimize the transmission of light for bright, crisp, and color-accurate image generation. Coupling this with the great glass used in the lenses, you get brighter images at any time of the day.
The scope has a lightweight design for convenient portability. It also brings to the table a variable magnification from 1x to 8x for close and medium-range shots. At close distances, it provides a massive viewing angle as well as a better acquisition of targets at longer distances.
It also has a second focal plane reticle that is illuminated for accurate aiming when the light settings are poor. The turrets on the scope are lockable and easy to use. After sighting through the scope, you simply push the turrets toward the scope’s body to lock them in place.
Features
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Matte finish
- 30mm main tube
- 1-8x magnification range
- Second focal plane reticle
- IPX- waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
Pros
- Illuminated reticle with 12 brightness settings
- True 1x
- Crisp clear glass
- Easy to use
- Effortless to zero in the scope
- User-friendly controls for rapid target acquisition
- Unbeatable turret tracking and reticle fidelity for long-range precision
Cons
- Slightly heavy
3) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm 30mm FFP Rifle Scope
Vortex has a longstanding reputation for making good optics and this is clear in the Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm 30mm FFP Rifle Scope. It is designed to adapt to any situation and give you the versatility you need for close and medium-range shots.
Unrivaled versatility and amazing features are the highlights that make the Strike Eagle 1-8×24 FFP scope one of the best LPVO scopes. This riflescope features fully multi-coated lenses which enhance the transmission of light for bright, clear and sharp image views.
Better yet, it utilizes extra-low dispersion glass that offers increased resolution and color-rich image views even in low-light settings. Furthermore, it has a first focal plane reticle that is illuminated for better target acquisition in low-light settings.
Another impressive feature of the scope is the robust housing. It is crafted with aircraft-grade aluminum which optimizes its strength and rigidity. On the exterior of the scope is a durable matte anodized finish that shields the scope from rust. This coating also helps minimize glare when hunting under bright sunlight. Above all, the scope is fully waterproof and fogproof.
Features
- Fully multi-coated optics
- 30mm main tube
- First focal plane reticle
- 1-8x magnification
- IPX-7 water-resistance, fog proof and shockproof
- Matte anodized finish
- Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
Pros
- Illuminated reticle
- Simple to use even for beginners
- Great scope for the money
Cons
- Bulky
4) Athlon Optics Ares ETR 1-10 x 28 mm FFP Rifle Scope
Next on our list is the Athlon Optics Ares ETR 1-10 x 28 mm Rifle Scope. This scope is designed to offer great performance at varying ranges thanks to the variable 1-10x magnification. At long distances, the scope provides better and fast target acquisition and an ultra-wide field of view at closer ranges.
This rifle scope boasts an ATMR3 IR MIL reticle that is housed on the first focal plane. It aids in fast CQB for distant targets and since it is illuminated, it aids in greater accuracy in low-light settings. As one of the best LPVO scopes, this riflescope delivers image brilliance both in close-range and long-range shooting applications.
Furthermore, the scope utilizes UHD glass and advanced fully multi-coated lenses which work together to provide bright, clear and tack-sharp sight pictures. No matter the prevailing lighting conditions, Ares ETR 1-10×28 will get the job done with the utmost prowess.
Another strength of this riflescope is its sturdy make. It has a 1-piece main tube that is shock resistant to take any beating. Whether it’s shocking from rifle recoil or vibrations from a fall, you can rest assured, that the internal components of your scope will not be affected.
It is also fully waterproof and fog-resistant to provide reliable performance in all seasons, year in and year out. This scope also brings to the table a high-precision erector system, locking elevation turret and precision zero stop.
Features
- A First focal plane glass-etched reticle
- Precision zero stop
- 6061 T6 aluminum housing
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- 34mm 1-piece tube
- XPL coating
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
Pros
- Locking elevation turrets
- Illuminated reticle
- Crisp clear glass
Cons
- No parallax adjustment
5) NightForce ATACR 1-8×24 F1 Scope
The NightForce ATACR 1-8×24 F1 Scope is a high-end LPVO scope designed to provide the ultimate performance at close and long ranges. With the 1x magnification, it offers a large field of view equivalent to that in red dot sights but vastly more accurate. Night vision makes ATACR 1-8×24 F1 stand out among the best LPVO scopes.
It has a compact size that measures just over 10 inches for convenient packability and portability. It also has a light yet durable 34mm main tube which offers plenty of room for reticle movement as well as windage and elevation adjustments. Furthermore, it features an illuminated first focal plane reticle that stays highly visible even in broad daylight.
This rifle scope is designed to offer unmatched optical performance. It features pristine ED glass which delivers high resolution and exceptional color fidelity. It is also equipped with a power throw lever that aids in quick magnification adjustments and low-profile turrets which are capped to prevent accidental adjustment.
Features
- 34mm main tube
- 1-8x magnification range
- First focal plane reticle
- Pristine ED glass
- Power throw lever
- Bomb-proof reliability
Pros
- Bright daylight illumination
- Capped low-profile turrets
- Compact in size and ultralight
- Intelligent and illuminated reticle
- Unmatched precision for long-range shooting
- Pristine images across all magnification powers
Cons
- High cost
6) Steiner T5Xi 1-5×24 mm SFP Rifle Scope
As one of the best LVPO scopes, the Steiner T5Xi 1-5×24 offers the best optical solution for close-quarters and intermediate use. It offers unmatched clarity and accuracy regardless of the shooting activity you are engaged in.
The scope features a 1-piece 30mm tube which increases strength and reliability. It also makes the scope ideal for use with multiple firearms. It also offers generous and consistent eye relief which eliminates the need to keep repositioning your eye when you change the magnification. Furthermore, it comes with a throw lever for easy and quick magnification adjustment.
This rifle scope is made to be virtually indestructible. It is made from aircraft-grade aluminum for great strength and rigidity. It is also shockproof, fog proof and waterproof to stand up to any beating as well as any weather condition.
All Steiner T5Xi 1-5×24 rifle scopes also boast a locking diopter to help prevent accidental rotation of the diopter when you are in the field. Offering practical sighting solutions for all your shooting needs, the Steiner T5Xi shines among the best LPVO scopes because of its unparalleled accuracy, clarity and versatility.
Features
- A tapered all-metal magnification ring
- 1-5x magnification range
- Water-resistant and fog-proof
- Locking diopter
- Large, easy-to-grip windage and elevation adjustment knobs
- 1-piece 30mm tube
- Robust aircraft-grade aluminum housing
Pros
- Generous and consistent eye relief
- Lightweight and portable
- Crystal clear glass
- LED illumination
Cons
- Expensive
7) Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10x24mm FFP Rifle Scope
The Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10x24mm Rifle Scope is arguably one of the best LPVO scopes ever made. This is a high-end scope that is built with plenty of innovative features to deliver the most precise performance.
Featuring an adjustable magnification from 1x to 10x, this scope is ideal for both close and long-range applications. It boasts a large 34mm main tube which provides more room for reticle movement and maximized internal adjustments.
Moreover, it has an APO system that ensures peak color accuracy across the whole visible light spectrum and XR, fully multi-coated lenses that amplify light transmission for bright, crisp and clear image views.
The scope is made to offer reliable performance even in the most demanding conditions. It is crafted from a solid block of aircraft-quality aluminum that makes it nearly indestructible.
It also comes with an Armortek lens coating that protects the lens from scratches, oil and dirt, and a hard anodized finish that helps camouflage your shooting position. This scope is also waterproof, fogproof and sturdy enough to withstand powerful recoil.
Features
- Glass-etched reticle
- Scratch-resistant Armortek coatings
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- XR fully multi-coated lenses
- Erector tube system
- 34mm main tube
- Locking side illumination
Pros
- HD optical system
- Daybright reticle illumination
- Throw lever included
- Hard anodized finish
Cons
- No parallax adjustment
- Tight eye box at higher magnification settings
- Costly
8) Trijicon AccuPoint TR-24 1-4x24mm SFP Rifle Scope
If you are looking for the best LPVO scope for hunting, look no further than the Trijicon AccuPoint TR-24 1-4x24mm SFP Rifle scope. Its versatility makes it an excellent option for hunting all kinds of games in different environments from close to medium ranges.
This rifle scope has an illuminated reticle to help you get the job done every time. unlike other models whose illumination is powered by batteries, this model is illuminated through fiber optics and tritium.
This way, it provides a vivid aiming point all the time since it is not prone to failure. It also features multi-layer coated lenses that amplify light transmission to deliver exceptional image clarity with zero distortion.
Furthermore, the scope has a lightweight design for convenient portability. When it comes to construction, it is made from aircraft-quality aluminum which increases its durability and strength.
It is also fully water-resistant, fog-free to offer reliable performance in all weather conditions and shockproof to stand up to anything you throw at it. Above all, this LPVO scope has a 30mm tube which provides a wider range of mounting options.
Features
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- 30mm main tube
- Hard anodized finish
- Advanced fiber-optics
- Dual illumination system
- Side parallax adjustment
- Rugged aircraft-quality aluminum housing
Pros
- Ample eye relief
- Lightweight and portable
- Easy-to-use external turrets
- Versatile
Cons
- High cost
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Best LPVO Scopes Buying Guide & FAQs
How to Choose the Best LPVO Scopes
Choosing the best LPVO scope is not something you should do on a whip. Here are a number of the key factors you should take into consideration while sorting through the multiple options available.
Magnification
You must choose a scope whose magnification suits your shooting or hunting needs. If you will be engaging targets at distances longer than 300 yards, you should get a scope with more than 4x maximum magnification. However, if you hunt and shoot mainly within 300 yards, a 1-4x model will be more than sufficient.
Reticle Design
Look for a scope that has a reticle that will match your hunting/shooting skills and experience. If you are a beginner, you should get a scope that has a reticle system that is easy to use. A complicated one will have you spend most of your time figuring out how to use it.
Since LPVOs are trusted for close and mid-range applications, it is wise to get a model with an illuminated reticle. This will enhance your accuracy even in low-light conditions.
Glass Quality
A scope with good glass will make your hunting or shooting expedition more rewarding. It will provide high resolution and color-accurate images even in low-light settings. Scopes with ED or HD glass present the best image quality from dawn to dusk.
Also, make sure that you pick a scope that features proper lens coatings. Scopes with either fully-coated or fully multi-coated are the best. They amplify light transmission for bright, crisp and sharp image views. Proper lens coatings also help protect the glass from abrasions.
Pricing
Another important thing to consider is the cost of the LPVO scope. The most affordable models cost no more than $500. While they are cheap, they don’t compromise on quality. Such scopes are ideal for beginners and budget buyers.
If you are looking to get a solid, high-quality LPVO scope, be prepared to pay more. You can pay as much as $2,000 or more for the premium models and from $,1000 to $2,000 for the mid-range models.
Durability
Don’t forget to check on the housing quality of the scope you intend to buy. A scope with high-quality housing will not only give you many years of use, but it will also be more reliable. It will withstand rough handling and maintain zero even when you use it on a high-recoiling rifle.
Look for LPVO scopes made from high-quality materials such as aluminum or magnesium. Such scopes offer unbeatable durability.
Additionally, look for a scope that is tested to be fully waterproof, fog-proof, and dustproof to offer a lifetime of reliable performance even during harsh weather conditions.
LPVO vs Red Dot Scope: What is Better, Red dot or LPVO?
Low-power variable optics and red dot sights share some similarities as they are mainly used in close-range shooting scenarios where quick shots and quick target acquisition are required.
Choosing between the duo isn’t easy as both optics excel in their applications. Ultimately it boils down to your needs and preferences. Understanding what each optic offers first will help you make the decision easily.
The main advantage of LPVO over a red dot scope is versatility. Their variable magnification is useful in different applications such as hunting, competitive shooting and target practice. The reticle used in these scopes has finer crosshairs, increasing precision as the distance increases.
Think of an LPVO as a hybrid between a traditional scope and a red dot sight. The enhanced optical brilliance and performance of an LPVO come at a price. The scope is heavier than a red dot scope. Additionally, some LPVOs are more costly compared to red dot sights.
The most important advantage of a red dot is speed which is ideal for short-range engagements. When sighting using a red dot sight, you only focus on the target and the dot itself which aids in swift target acquisition and improved accuracy. Red dots applications are limited because of their fixed magnification.
Read: Best Ruger AR-556 Scopes
How Far Can You Shoot with an LPVO?
Versatility is one of the hallmarks of an LPVO. From close-ups to medium engagements, an LPVO has you covered. All lower power variable optics start with 1x magnification. At this power, you benefit from a wide field of view and rapid target acquisition.
The most common LPVO magnification range is 1-6x so with a magnification power of 6x you have the precision needed to take down targets as far as 600 yards. Hunters have quickly adopted the LPVOs for their shooting needs because they allow quick target acquisition which is useful when hunting in thick cover where quick shots are critical.
There is no specific distance designated for an LPVO because the magnification range and reticle differ from one scope to another. The common LPVO ranges include:
- 1-4x
- 1-6x
- 1-8x
- 1-10x
The choice of LPVO will depend on the activity and the distance you intend to take down the targets.
What are the Benefits of LPVO on AR-15?
If you are wondering whether an LPVO is the best companion for your AR-15, rest assured they offer numerous benefits making them ideal for your weapon. The increased use among hunters, shooters and law enforcement personnel is a testament to the benefits of the LPVO.
LPVOs are liked by many because of their versatility. You can use these rifle scopes for different shooting scenarios. The 1x power is ideal for close-range shooting scenarios and depending on the magnification range, you can confidently use the LPVO for medium-range and long-range applications for up to 1000 yards.
Unlike traditional rifle scopes, LPVOs allow rapid target acquisition at lower powers. At lower powers, you benefit from a large field of view which makes it easier to acquire targets. The LPVO will help you deal with the situation amicably when speed matters.
The other benefit that sets apart an LPVO from the ordinary riflescope is reduced parallax. When focusing through the scope, the reticle remains stationary even when you move your head so you can maintain the sight picture and take an accurate shot.
Another benefit of an LPVO is weight. The housing of an LPVO weighs considerably less than other rifle scopes, making it easier to carry. This is particularly useful to hunters on the move.
Best LPVO Scopes FAQs
Q: What Magnification is Considered LPVO?
Typically, a scope with 1x to 6x is considered an LPVO. However, some scopes with 8x or 10x maximum magnification are also considered to be LPVO.
Q: How Far Can You Shoot with 1/6 LPVO?
An LPVO with 1-6x magnification is ideal for close and mid-range hunting or shooting. You can use it to acquire targets that are as far as 500 yards accurately when used with a quality rifle.
Q: Are LPVO Good?
Yes. LPVOs are great optics for those shooting targets at close and medium ranges. For non-tactical applications, LPVOs are great optics for hunting at both close quarters and mid ranges. They have an added advantage of offering a wide field of view which is essential for rapid target acquisition.
Conclusion
We do hope that you have found this detailed guide enlightening and helpful. All the scopes we have listed above offer incredible precision and unmatched durability. Consider what you intend to use the scope for and your preference then weigh the features each present. This will help you find the right model for your specific needs.