Are you looking for the best low power variable optics for your next hunting or shooting excursion?
Do you need a reliable and durable optic that will not break the bank? Look no further!
Low power variable optics (LPVOs) are a great way to maximize accuracy and performance without sacrificing size or budget.
With so many options available, it is challenging to determine which is best for your specific needs.
Below is a list of the 10 best low power variable optics available in 2023.
From low-priced budget optics to the most advanced and feature-rich models, these are the optics you want to be considering.
These optics offer crystal clear glass, a wide field of view, and excellent eye relief, giving you the edge you need for your next hunt or shooting session.
Table of Contents
#1. EOTech Vudu 1-6x24mm Illuminated SR-3 (FFP) Precision Rifle Scope
- Magnification: 1x – 6x
- Objective Size: 24mm
- Tube Size: 30mm
- Focal Plane: First
- Weight: 20.1 oz
The EOTech Vudu 1-6X24mm Illuminated SR-3 (FFP) Precision Rifle Scope is perfect for shooters who want high-end features on a medium-ranged LPVO.
With a 1x to 6x magnification, you can quickly switch from close-quarters engagements to medium-range precision shooting.
It has an illuminated SR-3 first focal plane reticle with a reticle ring design for faster engagements and improved accuracy from short to medium range.
EOTech designed it with several power options with push button illumination controls.
The battery can last up to 500 hours in the middle power setting and includes a two-hour auto shut-off feature to save power.
It comes with XC high-density glass, providing enhanced clarity and protection.
The optics also come with a broadband antireflection coating that will not give your position away to your target.
If you are looking for a medium-ranged LPVO with a precision SR-3 FFP reticle, the EOTech Vudu 1-6X24mm Illuminated SR-3 (FFP) Precision Rifle Scope is a perfect choice.
It is available from Palmetto State Armory. Here’s where to buy it: www.PalmettoStateArmory.com
#2. Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 Gen2 Riflescope W/ AR-BDC3 Reticle
- Magnification: 1x – 8x
- Objective Size: 24mm
- Tube Size: 30mm
- Focal Plane: Second
- Weight: 17.6 oz
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8X24 Gen2 Riflescope W/AR-BDCX3 Reticle is an affordable LVPO with a powerful 8x magnification.
This scope provides shooters a smooth transition between up close and personal shooting with a true 1x magnification to a long-range 8x magnification quickly with its thread-in throw lever.
It comes with a glass etched illuminated AR-BDC3 reticle, which provides enhanced clarity in low light conditions and quick points of aim for references up to 650 yards.
With a second focal plane design, the reticle will remain the same regardless of the magnification for consistent shooting.
They built the Vortex Strike Eagle to last with its Armortek finish and is nitrogen gas-purged, shockproof, fog proof, and waterproof.
For shooters who want to quickly change between short- and long-range engagements at an excellent price point, the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8X24 Gen2 Riflescope W/AR-BDCX3 Reticle is the ideal choice.
It is available from Palmetto State Armory. Here’s where to buy it: www.PalmettoStateArmory.com
#3. Trijicon Credo 1-8x28mm Illuminated MRAD Segmented Circle (FFP) Riflescope
- Magnification: 1x – 8x
- Objective Size: 28mm
- Tube Size: 34mm
- Focal Plane: First
- Weight: 25.6 oz
The Trijicon Credo 1-8x28mm Illuminated MRAD Segmented Circle (FFP) Riflescope provides shooters with a wide range of magnification settings paired with a 28mm objective lens.
With up to 8x magnification, a repositionable magnification lever, and a first focal plane design, you can quickly acquire your target up close or have enhanced precision at a distance.
You can be confident that you can acquire your target in any lighting condition with a user-selectable red or green led brightness setting with five power levels.
With 39 hours of red illumination or 94 hours of green illumination, you will have plenty of charge for any hunt.
Trijicon constructed the Credo riflescope with premium-quality glass designed for maximum clarity.
The optics are fully multi-coated, broadband, and anti-reflective, offering authentic detail and color with zero distortion.
For hunters who want a premium-grade LPVO with up to an 8x magnification, the Trijicon Credo 1-8x28mm Illuminated MRAD Segmented Circle (FFP) Riflescope is an excellent choice.
It is available from Palmetto State Armory. Here’s where to buy it: www.PalmettoStateArmory.com
#4. Leupold VX-6HD 1-6x24mm Firedot Duplex Illuminated Reticle Rifle Scope
- Magnification: 1x – 6x
- Objective Size: 24mm
- Tube Size: 30mm
- Focal Plane: Second
- Weight: 16.2 oz
Leupold’s VX-6HD 1-6x24mm Firedot Duplex Illuminated Reticle Rifle Scope is an excellent option for hunters who want to change from close range stalking to medium quickly ranged takedowns.
It has an ultra-lightweight design that is perfect for any rifle, with an overall length of 10.76 inches.
With the reversible throw lever, you can take advantage of the 1x to 6x magnification, which allows you to shift between magnifications to take down any target quickly.
With a Guard-Ion lens coating, aluminum lens caps, and a waterproof/fog proof design, it can withstand the harshest environments.
It has a second focal plane design, a 24mm objective lens, an electronic reticle level, and a 3.7” to 3.82” eye relief, it will provide consistent shots at any range.
Another remarkable feature is the motion sensor technology that extends battery life by turning it off after five minutes of inactivity.
One of the best things Leupold offers with this scope is their lifetime guarantee, which covers any defects in workmanship or materials.
If you want one of the best LPVOs on the market with advanced features, check out the Leupold VX-6HD 1-6x24mm Firedot Duplex Illuminated Reticle Rifle Scope.
It is available from Palmetto State Armory. Here’s where to buy it: www.PalmettoStateArmory.com
#5. Truglo Tru-Brite 30 1-4x24mm Duplex Mil-Dot Tactical Rifle Scope
- Magnification: 1x – 4x
- Objective Size: 24mm
- Tube Size: 30mm
- Focal Plane: Second
- Weight: 13.4 oz
If you are looking for an entry-level LPVO that will fit any budget, you cannot go wrong with the Truglo Tru-Brite 30 1-4x24mm Duplex Mil-Dot Tactical Rifle Scope.
As the most affordable option on this list, it is perfect for those who want to experience the benefits of having a 4x variable scope with everything included to install it.
They craft it from durable aircraft-grade aluminum and includes an anodized matte finish, a fully coated lens, shock-resistant housing, nitrogen gas-filled, waterproof, and is waterproof and fog proof.
It comes with all the basics, and with up to a 4x magnification, it is a decent choice for a few hundred yards or up close with a true 1x magnification.
For its price, you cannot beat the Truglo Tru-Brite 30 1-4x24mm Duplex Mil-Dot Tactical Rifle Scope.
It is available from Palmetto State Armory. Here’s where to buy it: www.PalmettoStateArmory.com
#6. Burris RT-6 1-6x24mm Illuminated Ballistic AR Rifle Scope
- Magnification: 1x – 6x
- Objective Size: 24mm
- Tube Size: 30mm
- Focal Plane: Second
- Weight: 17.4 oz
The Burris RT-6 1-6x24mm Illuminated Ballistic AR Rifle Scope is an excellent second focal plane scope that is perfect for shooting competitions at an excellent price point.
It has an illuminated ballistic AR mil reticle with trajectory compensation up to 600 yards and 11 brightness settings.
The ability to make quick brightness adjustments with a 24mm objective lens allows you to get an excellent shot in any lighting condition.
To get the tightest shot group possible, it comes with an 80 MOA windage and elevation adjustments at .5 MOA increments.
To take down targets up close, it has a true 1x setting, allowing up to a 6x magnification to engage your targets down range.
Burris provides a throw lever to make snap adjustments for a fast transition to get the perfect magnification.
With a waterproof, shockproof, fog proof, and nitrogen-filled design, it is ready to take on the elements.
Burris also offers a lifetime warranty for the RT-6, which gives it even more value.
It is important to note that the mounting hardware is sold separately.
If you are looking for a durable LPVO with excellent features, the Burris RT-6 1-6x24mm Illuminated Ballistic AR Rifle Scope is a top choice.
It is available from Palmetto State Armory. Here’s where to buy it: www.PalmettoStateArmory.com
#7. Trijicon VCOG 1-6×24 Riflescope Segmented Circle/Crosshair .223/55 Grain Ballistic Reticle W/ TA51
- Magnification: 1x – 6x
- Objective Size: 24mm
- Tube Size: Not Specified
- Focal Plane: First
- Weight: 23.2 oz
The Trijicon VCOG 1-6×24 Riflescope Segmented Circle/Crosshair .223/55 Grain Ballistic Reticle W/ TA51 is the perfect choice for any tactical shooter.
Featuring a first focal plane reticle, superior quality glass with a multi-coated lens, and rugged aluminum-alloy housing, it offers the highest level of precision and accuracy.
The eleven adjustable brightness settings, bullet drop compensating and ranging reticle, paired with quick magnification adjustments, make it the perfect tool for any situation.
Its constant eye relief and waterproof design ensure you can keep your eye on the target in any condition.
With 1x to 6x magnification, the Trijicon VCOG 1-6×24 Riflescope has everything you need to hit your target with ease and precision.
Battery swaps are simple, with an easy single AA battery design with up to 700 hours of battery life.
It also has a no ring design, which allows you to easily mount the scope to any weapon with a rail system.
The VCOG is built to last and is virtually indestructible.
It has passed a series of tests by the military to ensure it is combat-ready in any environment.
It can operate in subzero conditions up to a blistering 140 degrees Fahrenheit and is shockproof, waterproof, and fog proof.
If you are looking for a premium LPVO that can take a beating with top of the line features, the Trijicon VCOG 1-6×24 Riflescope Segmented Circle/Crosshair .223/55 Grain Ballistic Reticle W/ TA51 is an excellent choice.
It is available from Palmetto State Armory. Here’s where to buy it: www.PalmettoStateArmory.com
#8. Sig Sauer Tango MSR LPVO Scope 1-6x24mm SFP W/ Alpha Cantil. MSR Mount
- Magnification: 1x – 6x
- Objective Size: 24mm
- Tube Size: 30mm
- Focal Plane: Second
- Weight: 18.5 oz
If you are looking for both performance and reliability at an excellent price point, the Sig Sauer Tango MSR LPVO Scope 1-6x24mm SFP W/ Alpha Cantil. MSR Mount is a perfect choice.
It comes with an ALPHA-MSR one-piece aluminum cantilever mount, making it effortless to install on any rail-based platform.
Sig Sauer constructed the Tango MSR LPVO to last with a dependable waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof design.
You can quickly engage your targets at any range with the 1x to 6x magnification, adjustable reticle brightness, and the integrated throw lever.
A second focal plane will provide you a consistent sight no matter the range, and the low light dispersion glass ensures a crystal clear sight picture.
The Sig Sauer Tango MSR LPVO Scope 1-6x24mm SFP W/ Alpha Cantil. MSR Mount is an excellent option for any shooter looking for their next quality build at a reasonable price.
It is available from Palmetto State Armory. Here’s where to buy it: www.PalmettoStateArmory.com
#9. Sig Sauer Tango MSR LPVO FFP 1-10x26mm W/ Alpha MSR Mount
- Magnification: 1x – 10x
- Objective Size: 26mm
- Tube Size: 34mm
- Focal Plane: First
- Weight: 21.9 oz
The Sig Sauer Tango MSR LPVO FFP 1-10x26mm W/ Alpha MSR Mount is an excellent option for shooters who want a reasonable price for a solid-performing first focal plane LPVO.
Compared to the other scopes on this list, it offers an extended magnification of up to 10x, allowing you to get precision shots even further.
They equipped it with an illuminated MSR BDC-10 reticle with eleven brightness settings, allowing you to quickly engage targets with a true 1x magnification or precision shooting at 10x.
This is all made easy with Sig Sauer’s integrated thread-in throw lever, allowing you to make split-second adjustments.
For enhanced durability, it is waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof, allowing you to operate in the harshest of environments.
It also includes an ALPHA-MSR one-piece aluminum cantilever mount.
If you are looking for a first focal plane LPVO with a fantastic 10x magnification, the Sig Sauer Tango MSR LPVO FFP 1-10x26mm W/ Alpha MSR Mount is your best option.
It is available from Palmetto State Armory. Here’s where to buy it: www.PalmettoStateArmory.com
#10. Leupold Service VX-4.5HD 1-4.5x24mm Firedot Bull-Ring Illuminated (SFP) Rifle Scope W/ CDS-ZL2 Adjustment
- Magnification: 1x – 4.5x
- Objective Size: 24mm
- Tube Size: 30mm
- Focal Plane: Second
- Weight: 13.4 oz
For competition shooters, the Leupold Service VX-4.5HD 1-4.5x24mm Firedot Bull-Ring Illuminated (SFP) Rifle Scope W/ CDS-ZL2 Adjustment is a simple choice.
It comes with a 1x to 4.5x magnification, which is the maximum magnification allowed for NRA Service Rifle competitions.
With the Twilight Max HD light management system, Guard-Ion lens coating, and Bull-Ring reticle, you will have a crystal clear sight picture.
The Guard-Ion coating sheds rain, dirt, and fingerprints to ensure you have a clear shot no matter the conditions.
It also comes with a CDS-ZL2 elevation adjustments dial that will allow you to make quick elevation adjustments for competition ranges with a push-button Zerolock system to prevent accidental range adjustments.
If you are looking for a competitive edge in competition shooting, the Leupold Service VX-4.5HD 1-4.5x24mm Firedot Bull-Ring Illuminated (SFP) Rifle Scope W/ CDS-ZL2 Adjustment is an excellent choice.
It is available from Palmetto State Armory. Here’s where to buy it: www.PalmettoStateArmory.com
What Is A LPVO?
A Low Power Variable Optic (LPVO) is a type of rifle scope that allows you to adjust the magnification.
This type of scope has become increasingly popular because of its versatility and convenience.
LPVOs typically have a variable magnification range, usually between 1x and 6x, but it can be more.
This means you can adjust the zoom to the right amount depending on the situation.
For example, if you’re shooting in close quarters, you can use the lowest magnification to get a wider field of view.
On the other hand, if you need to shoot at longer ranges, you can increase the magnification for more accuracy.
Additionally, most LPVOs come with illuminated reticles, which can help you acquire your target more quickly.
With all these features, it is no wonder why LPVOs are so popular among shooters and hunters.
What Features to Look for In an LPVO
There are many benefits of owning an LPVO, the primary one being versatility.
Thanks to their wide variety of ranges and features, LPVOs are an excellent option for those that will be engaging their targets at different ranges.
Magnification
LPVOs start with a 1x magnification and generally go to 6x, except for a few exceptions.
This magnification range makes them perfect for short and medium-range shooting.
While LPVOs have a true 1x magnification that is perfect for close-quarters combat and target practice, a red dot or holo sight would be a better option if that is all you are doing because they are more compact and more affordable.
Focal Plane
Scopes either have with a first or second focal plane.
First focal plane scopes offer a short-range reticle for up close engagements, and when a shooter increases its magnification, it adjusts to provide enhanced precision at distances.
Second focal plane LPVOs have a fixed reticle, which provides a consistent sight picture regardless of the magnification.
It comes down to preference, but second focal plane LPVOs tend to be more affordable.
Features
Depending on the LPVO you select, they will come with various features such as throw levers, different lens coatings, adjustable reticle illumination, and different reticles, or they will come with mounting hardware for an easy install.
It is essential to have high-quality glass for the optics and comfortable eye relief to have a clear sight picture.
Final Verdict
If you want the versatility of engaging your targets at a short or medium range, an LPVO is a perfect addition to your next rifle build.
See Also
LPVO Optics: 7 Things You Need To Know
He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 2004 and has served over 18 years as a communications maintenance technician with three deployments to the Middle East.
He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in English and Creative Writing from Southern New Hampshire University and a bachelor’s degree in Information System Security with a concentration in Digital Forensics from American Military University.
- 8 Best Glocks for Women For 2023 - September 21, 2023
- Space-A Flights: 7 Things You Need to Know - September 8, 2023
- 8 Best Sig Sauer Pistols For 2023 (Picked By A US Marine) - August 26, 2023
