Best Low Power Variable Optics (LPVO) Under $400

The Best Low Power Variable Optics (LPVO) Under $400 is brought to you by The Old Deer Hunters. In the ever-evolving world of optics, hunters and sports shooters are constantly seeking scopes that offer versatility and precision. One type of scope that has gained widespread popularity is the Low Power Variable Optic (LPVO) scope. In this post, we will examine the intricacies of LPVO scopes during my quest for a good LPVO for under $400.

We will explore and analyze the features and performance of some popular LPVO’s, including Vortex, Bushnell, Primary Arms, Sig Sauer, Monstrum and Burris Optics.

If you’re looking for information about a variety of reliable LPVO’s at affordable prices t, you’re in the right place. I am an Amazon affiliate so if you purchase a scope, I may get a small commission. The Best Low Power Variable Optics (LPVO) Under $400 has some budget priced scopes that will be fine for targets and hunting, but I suggest you go with more popular brands for defensive purposes.

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Best LPVO Common Characteristics

All of the scopes had a 30 mm tubes for strength and maximum windage and elevation adjustments. The magnification range of 1-6X or 1-8X are offered. Higher magnification scopes tended to cost a little more. The scopes are offered in First Focal Plane (FFP) and Second Focal Plane (SFP) configurations. First Focal Plane scopes costs more to manufacture so it sometimes pushed the price over the $400 mark.

All scopes had good glass and coated lenses that produced sharp images. They all had illuminated reticles which is essential for a FFP scope with a 1X base power. At 1X on an FFP scope, the reticle is so small you can hardly see it without some type of illuminated center horseshoe of circle. This illuminated center of the reticle is there to give you “both eyes open” shooting capability similar to a red dot sight for close quarters shooting.

The size of the scopes were similar and are pretty large. They are not compact or lightweight scopes. FFP scopes are larger than their SFP counterparts. They also cost more across the board. Another common feature is some type of throw lever to quickly adjust the power ring for changes of magnification.

Most of the scopes carry a lifetime warranty.

Best LPVO Differences

There are small differences in the characteristics of these scopes. Each of the brands have different reticles. The reticle is very important and tends to be one of the main differences in the scopes. Many shooters prefer certain types of reticles and will only buy a certain brand with a particular reticle. Some of the scopes offer BDC reticles, some offer MOA and some only have a circle or crosshair. Reticle colors for some are red and other have green illumination and some have both.

There is a big variation in cost between brands from about $100 to over $400. I provided budget scopes that I only recommend for target practice and plinking. The best of these scopes run in the $300-400 and you usually get what you pay for. It is one thing to test a new scope and see if it works when new, it is totally different to trust a scope brand for long lasting quality. If you are thinking self defense, think Vortex, Primary Arms or Burris.

My top Picks for Low Power Variable Optics (LPVO) Under $400

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Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm Second Focal Plane Riflescope $319 at Amazon
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm Second Focal Plane Riflescope $399 at Amazon
Burris RT-6 1-6x24mm SFP Tactical Rifle Scope $369 at Amazon
Sig Sauer 1-6x24mm Riflescope; MSR-BDC6 SFP Reticle with Mount $318 at Amazon
Primary Arms SLX 1-6×24 Second Focal Plane Gen IV Riflescope $339 at Amazon
Primary Arms SLX 1-6x24mm FFP Rifle Scope – Illuminated $399 at Amazon
Primary Arms SLX 1-6x24mm FFP Rifle Scope – Illuminated + Mount $459 at Amazon
Bushnell Trophy Quick Acquisition 1-6×24 Riflescope, Illuminated $228 at Amazon
Monstrum Banshee 1-6×24 LPVO Rifle Scope with Mount $129 at Amazon
Truglo 30MM AR15 1-4X Scope $98 at Amazon

Mounts
Vortex 30mm AR15 Mount for LPVO $119 at Amazon
Monstrum Cantilever QD Scope for LPVO $35 at Amazon

Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm Second Focal Plane Riflescope

Best Low Power Variable Optics (LPVO's) Under $400

Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm Second Focal Plane Riflescope $319 at Amazon
Vortex 30mm AR15 Mount for LPVO $119 at Amazon

The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm Second Focal Plane Riflescope is my personal favorite LPVO and sits on my 16″ AR-15 rifle. I prefer the second focal Plane reticle because it is easy to see and does not change at any magnification level. FFS reticles are hard to see at low magnification and if you can not see your reticle, it is hard to hit a target.

Speed and versatility—that’s what 1-6X variable optics offer shooters who need to engage targets from point-blank out to 600 yards, and that’s exactly what you get with the redesigned Strike Eagle. With the BDC3 reticle and a thread-in throw lever, you’ll be on target even faster.

PRO TIP: The glass in SFP scopes is usually better and still costs less than a FFP of the same brand and model because it costs more to manufacture FFP scopes.

The updated Strike Eagle 1-6×24 is defined by speed and versatility. A true 1x on the low end adapts to a wide range of scenarios, letting shooters rapidly engage targets from point-blank to extended ranges.
The magnification ring has been updated and now includes a thread-in throw lever, and the magnification indicators can now be seen without coming off the scope.
The new illuminated BDC3 reticle focuses the shooter’s eye to the target faster and holdovers allow for immediate use out to 650 yards for targets of known distance.
The fast focus dial on the eyepiece allows for quick and easy reticle focusing. Anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces provide increased light transmission for greater clarity and low-light performance.
Nitrogen purged and o-ring sealed the for water and fogproof performance. The one piece, aircraft grade aluminum, 30mm tube is shockproof shrugging off recoil and other impacts.
My pick for Best Low Power Variable Optics (LPVO’s) Under $400

BDC-3 (MOA) Reticle

Improved for ranging distances and holdovers and illuminated for clarity in low light.
Use the ranging feature at the top of the reticle to range a silhouette target up to 600 yd.
BDC subtensions accurately shoot targets from 20-650 yards.
5 MPH wind increments

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Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm Second Focal Plane Riflescop e

Best Low Power Variable Optics (LPVO's)VORTEX

Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm Second Focal Plane Riflescope $399 at Amazon

Higher magnification, even more versatility especially for long range. That’s what 1-8X variable optics offer shooters who need to engage targets in close or at longer range. Same size as the 1-6X Strike Eagle. With the BDC3 reticle and a thread-in throw lever, you’ll be on target even faster with more hits at long range.

This Strike Eagle 1-8X gives you a little more magnification if you need it for a few more $$. It also has the BDC-3 (MOA) Reticle.

The updated Strike Eagle 1-8×24 is defined by speed and versatility. A true 1x on the low end adapts to a wide range of scenarios, letting shooters rapidly engage targets from point-blank to extended ranges.
The magnification ring has been updated and now includes a thread-in throw lever, and the magnification indicators can now be seen without coming off the scope.
The new illuminated BDC3 reticle focuses the shooter’s eye to the target faster and holdovers allow for immediate use out to 650 yards for targets of known distance.
The fast focus dial on the eyepiece allows for quick and easy reticle focusing. Anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces provide increased light transmission for greater clarity and low-light performance.
The scope is nitrogen purged and o-ring sealed the for water and fogproof performance. The one piece, aircraft grade aluminum, 30mm tube is shockproof shrugging off recoil and other impacts.

Vortex 30mm AR15 Mount for LPVO’s

Use this cantilever mount for mounting 30 mm telescopic sights.
The 2-inch offset of this cantilever mount positions the scope in a forward location, allowing the correct eye relief and head placement.
The cantilever ring mount positions the center of the riflescope tube at a height of 1.59 inches (40.39 mm) from the base. Weighs 6.7 ounces
Aluminum construction
Weighs 6.7 ounces
Best Low Power Variable Optics (LPVO’s) Mount for AR-15

Vortex 30mm AR15 Mount for LPVO $119 at Amazon

Primary Arms SLX 1-6×24 Second Focal Plane Gen IV Riflescopes – Illuminated ACSS Reticle

Best Low Power Variable Optics (LPVO's) Under $400 PRIMARY ARMS

Primary Arms SLX 1-6×24 Second Focal Plane Gen IV Riflescope $339 at Amazon

Primary Arms is a leader in LVPO scopes in the $300 price range. You get a lot for your money and the features most shooters want in an LPVO. It has the ACSS NOVA Fiber Optic Reticle. The ACSS NOVA uses high-efficiency fiber optic wire for “Red Dot Bright™ illumination”. The purpose of this fiber optic is to make the illuminated reticle bright enough to see in bright sunlight. This rifle scope comes with a lifetime warranty.

Although this is one of the most popular reticles on the market, I prefer the Horseshoe and center dot more than the chevron only because I can see the larger horseshoe better.

Fully Upgraded Optical System
Integrated Magnification Throw Lever
Magnification: 1x – 6x (Min – Max) , Focal Plane: SFP
Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm , Exit Pupil: 10.6mm – 3.8mm , Eye Relief: 4 in.
Total Windage/Elevation Adjustment: 120 MOA
Field Of View @100 Yards: 120 ft. – 20 ft. (Low – High)
A top choice for Best Low Power Variable Optics (LPVO’s) Under $400

ACSS NOVA Fiber Wire Reticle
Illumination: Red, 11 Illumination Settings
Click Value: 0.1 MIL
Length w/o Lens Covers: 10.4 in. , Weight w/ Included Battery w/o Lens Covers: 17.9 oz.

Primary Arms SLX 1-6x24mm FFP Rifle Scope – Illuminated ACSS-Raptor-5.56/.308 & Primary Arms Deluxe 30mm Scope

Primary Arms SLX 1-6x24mm FFP Rifle Scope – Illuminated $399 at Amazon
Primary Arms SLX 1-6x24mm FFP Rifle Scope – Illuminated + Mount $459 at Amazon

This is the Primary Arms scope with the First Focal Plane reticle so the reticle gets larger with the increase of magnification. The bullet drop compensation works at all magnification levels. The center of the reticle can be hard to see at low magnification unless the illumination is turned on.

The Primary Arms first focal plane 1-6x scope takes the proven performance of our Gen III scope body and upgrades the internals to provide first focal functionality. This tough scope features full red reticle illumination, a quick focus eyepiece, and finger adjustable turrets covered by turret caps. The first focal plane construction allows the reticle to be small, fast, and simple at low magnification, with ranging and ballistic drops true at every magnification.

The ACSS Raptor 5.56 first focal plane reticle has been calibrated to be true at every magnification. The reticle’s features include automatic ranging out to 600 yards, moving target leads, and a large, fast horse shoe that easily draws your eye to the target. This caliber specific reticle is tuned for 5.56 NATO, 5.45x39mm, and .308 Win. Full red reticle illumination is provided by a single (included) CR2032 battery, and a spare battery is included inside the windage turret cap. A total of 11 settings take the reticle all the way up to daylight bright. All lenses are fully multicoated for maximum light transmission and the 6063 aluminum body is Type II hard anodized in matte black.

Burris RT-6 1-6x24mm SFP Tactical Rifle Scope

Burris RT-6 1-6x24mm SFP Tactical Rifle Scope $369 at Amazon

Designed for consistent and repeated firings, the Burris R-T6 1-6x24mm Low-Magnification Scope is ideal for mid-distance shooting applications. These AR15 Rifle Scopes from the pioneers at Burris feature high-performance glass that provides an eyes open engagement for more precise shots. With multi-coated lenses, the Burris R-T6 1-6x24mm Competitive Rifle Scope can compensate out to 600 yards to stalk big game. Tackle the harshest shooting environments known to mankind with the sleek and stylish Burris RT-6 1-6x24mm Shooting Rifle Scope.

Shorter than most 1-4x scopes for quicker, easier handling
The 6x zoom has true 1x setting for eyes open engagement
Ballistic AR reticle with trajectory compensation out to 600 yards
11 Brightness illumination settings

Sig Sauer Tango-MSR 1-6x24mm SFP Riflescope; MSR-BDC6 Reticle with Alpha-MSR Cantilever Mount

Sig Sauer 1-6x24mm Riflescope; MSR-BDC6 SFP Reticle with Mount $318 at Amazon

The Sig 1-6X24 FFP scope really peaked my interest in LPVO’s. The photo above is of our Sig LPVO’s and this scope offers you a lot for the money. It comes with a great mount and pop-open lens caps in the box. This scope also comes in a SFP or FFP model.

I prefer the SFP model because my old eyes picks up the reticle much quicker at low magnification. After mounting it on Fred’s rifle, it really made pounding steel at 100 and 200 yards a piece of cake. It has very good optics, the image is very clear for a scope in this price range and the zoom ring has a very smooth turn. It has the correct clockwise turn to increase the power. The only thing I did not care for was the friction windage and elevation knobs. They have no “clicks” and are hard to turn.

INCREDIBLE VALUE: Introducing the TANGO-MSR line of riflescopes by Sig Sauer. Featuring three new low power variable optics loaded with standard features and offered at an incredible value.

AMAZING FEATURES: These new models include illuminated reticles, factory installed flip-back lens covers, removable thread-in magnification throw levers and the impressive ALPHA-MSR cantilever mount.

ACCLAIMED LINEAGE: The TANGO-MSR follows the TANGO6T 1-6x24mm riflescope’s acclaimed lineage. Crafted by the hands of the experts, with the most sought out advanced technology and advancements.

TOP QUALITY: The TANGO6T has been the winner of three consecutive US military contracts: the Squad Designated Marksman Riflescope (SDMR), the Squad Variable Powered Scope (S-VPS) and the Direct View Optic (DVO) programs.

Best Value of the Best Low Power Variable Optics (LPVO’s) Under $400

Monstrum Cantilever Quick Release Scope Mount

Monstrum Cantilever QD Scope $35 at Amazon

Dual ring scope mount for mounting standard 1 inch tube rifle scopes to Picatinny equipped rifles
Slim profile design offers the weight of lightweight scope rings with the added rigidity and convenience of a one piece mount
Attaches and detaches easily via integrated quick release mechanism, without additional tools or tightening
2 inches of forward extension allows extra flexibility for optimum eye relief and shooting position
5 ounces in weight and 5 inches in total length, with a base of 3 inches and 2.5 inches of spacing between the rings

Bushnell Trophy 1-6×24 Riflescope, Illuminated Dot Drop Reticle Rifle Scope

Bushnell Trophy Quick Acquisition 1-6×24 Riflescope, Illuminated $228 at Amazon

Bushnell markets this scope as a hunting scope. I has an illuminated reticle that is designed for hunting, not a tactical type ACSS reticle. That being said, it still has all the benefits of an LPVO. It can also be used on a shotgun or lever action, not just an AR-15 type rifle. It has a quick focus ocular lens, capped turrets, 1/2 MOA reticle adjustments and weighs 18 ounces. It has multi-coated lenses to give you that famous Bushnell clarity.

THE TROPHY 1-6×24 QUICK ACQUISITION RIFLESCOPE – is a low-power variable optic (LPVO) designed specifically for the Short – Mid Range Hunter for quick shots. The illuminated 1/2 MOA floating dot helps aid those fast shots, but it also has opportunities for longer shots with the aid of the integrated 2 MOA spaced hold points on the reticle
RUGGED, COMPACT, AND LIGHTWEIGHT – The Trophy Quick Acquisition riflescope is made of one-piece aircraft-grade aluminum for ruggedness while also being lightweight so you can field it all day without being overly fatigued. The small form factor of this low-power variable optic makes it right at home on smaller platforms like lever rifles, or even on shotguns
ILLUMINATED DOT DROP RETICLE – The illuminated Dot Drop reticle features a 1/2 MOA illuminated center dot with 6 illumination settings with off positions between each setting. On the verticle crosshair there are 10 hash mark drop points at 2 MOA spacing for longer shots
LOW-PROFILE CONTROLS – Brush guns need low-profile controls and adjustments. The Trophy Quick Acquisition’s capped turrets not only protect your zero from getting bumped, they also help keep the optic from getting snagged in the brush
MADE FOR SHORT TO MEDIUM-RANGE HUNTERS – The Trophy 1-6×24 Quick Acquisition is a low-power variable optic truly designed with the hunter in mind. Whether hunting in the brush for hogs with your shotgun, spot & stalking Whitetail deer, or going for Cous deer with your favorite lever rifle, the Trophy Quick Acquisition is ready for the job it was designed for.
The sleeper of all the Best Low Power Variable Optics (LPVO’s) Under $400

The following LPVO’s are entry level and are good for target shooting and hunting but I would not recommend them for defense purposes.

Monstrum Banshee 1-6×24 LPVO Rifle Scope with Offset Scope Mount

Monstrum Banshee 1-6×24 LPVO Rifle Scope with Mount $129 at Amazon

The Monstrum Banshee is a very good optic for the money. It is right on par as far as optics quality with the more expensive scopes on our list. I probably would have bought the Banshee if it had a reticle similar to the Vortex Strike Eagle or Burris LPVO. The reticle has a large box in the center of the scope that is basically useless except to help center your eye, but much too large for aiming. The hash marks and dot in the center are small and hard for me to see at low power, even though it is a SFP reticle. If you like this reticle, it is a good value.

Low power variable optic from 1-6x magnification with newly designed optics assembly, providing longer eye relief, wider eye box, and true 1x magnification
Available with either second focal plane MX1 box reticle with MOA hashmarks, BDC B2 reticle with 5.56 BDC hashmarks, or BDC C1 daylight bright reticle. Second focal plane reticles remain the same size at all magnification levels for high visibility at all magnifications.
Inline dial controlled reticle illumination with 5 brightness levels in both red and green
More anti-reflective lens coating than competing scope models, offering higher light transmission and superior optical clarity
Product Bundle includes Monstrum Offset Scope Mount and matching set of Flip-Up Lens Covers
Best budget LPVO or the Best Low Power Variable Optics (LPVO’s) Under $400

Includes: 1-6×24 SFP LPVO Scope, CR2032A Battery (Preinstalled)
Reticle: Illuminated MX1 or BDC
Lens Coating: Full Multi-Layer
Materials: 6061 Aircraft Grade Aluminum
Compatibility: Rifles with Picatinny Rails
Scope Range: Close to Mid Range, 300+ Yards
Magnification: 1-6x
Objective Diameter: 24 mm
Rail Mount Torque: 20-25 in/lbs
Scope Ring Torque: 18 in/lbs
Tube Diameter: 30 mm
Eye Relief: 3.5-3.8 in
Weight: 17 oz
Length: 11 in
Color: Black or FDE
Fog & Water Resistance? Yes (Nitrogen Sealed)
Warranty: Lifetime Warranty

CVLIFE Eagle Feather 1-6×24 LPVO Rifle Scope with 30mm Cantilever Mount

CVLIFE EagleFeather 1-6×24 LPVO Rifle Scope with 30mm Mount $99 at Amazon

CVLIFE is a leader in low priced scopes. The EagleFeather may be one of the great deals for low cost optics. It has multi-coated lenses, etched and illuminated reticle, both red and green colors. Windage and elevation click adjustments and comes with a mount. For less than $100, it is hard to beat and the lowest priced LPVO in the Top 10 Best Low Power Variable Optics (LPVO’s) Under $400.

I would not recommend this scope for serious use, like self defense, but for a plinker and target practice it may be just the ticket.

Super Cost-Effective 1-6X LPVO: Designed to combine quality, performance, and precision with great value, the 1-6×24 scope features a true 6x zoom factor, comfortable eye relief, 5-level red and green illuminated reticle, and also features a cantilever mount required for low power variable optics.
Fully Multi-Coat HD Lenses: High-definition optics and fully multi-coated lenses provide excellent light transmission and color reproduction for improved edge-to-edge clarity and low-light performance, helping you achieve high visibility at all magnifications.
Etched Glass Dual-Illuminated Reticle: The 1-6x scope has 5 levels of red and green dual-light center illumination. The center point and circle lighting help you quickly focus on the target, help you aim quickly, and provide a clear aiming point in low light conditions, so as to achieve the same level of accuracy and holdover as in good light.
Precision Reset Turrets: The precision turret provides the most consistent and precise 1/2 MOA per click adjustment, and the capped turret ensures your zero locks and enhances durability. Equipped with reset zero, it can be reset to zero after sighting in.
Excellent Shockproof and Waterproof Performance: This 1-6x24mm scope is made of a one-piece aviation aluminum tube, it still held zero after 1000 rounds of 5.56 through it. Equipped with an O-ring seal, fog resistance, and waterproof capabilities, ensuring long-lasting durability.
Very popular low priced Best Low Power Variable Optics (LPVO’s) Under $400

TRUGLO TruBrite 30 Hunter 1-4X

Truglo 30MM AR15 1-4X Scope only $98 at Amazon

TRU•BRITE 30 HUNTER offers the perfect combination of clarity, precision, and speed for shotguns and rifles. Featuring a 30mm tube and variable 1–4 x 24mm magnification, the HUNTER model boasts an extremely wide field of view — ideal for turkey, deer, hog, and varmint hunting. With a large exit pupil and generous eye relief, the TRU•BRITE 30 HUNTER provides a bright image for hunting in the low light of thick woods.

LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY
BRIGHT IMAGE – With a large exit pupil and generous 3.75″ eye relief, the TRU BRITE 30 HUNTER provides a bright image for hunting in the low light of thick woods; fully-coated lenses provide maximum brightness, clarity, and contrast; durable leaf spring click adjustments for windage and elevation
ONE-PIECE AIRCRAFT-GRADE ALUMINUM TUBE – This hunting scope features aircraft-grade aluminum one-piece tube construction that is water & shock resistant; fog-proof;
COMPACT, LIGHTWEIGHT SCOPE – This hunting scope is part of the innovative Truglo compact scopes and delivers a number of impressive features; it is nitrogen gas-filled to prevent internal fogging; scratch-resistant, non-reflective finish
FEATURES – This durable aluminum hunting scope features extremely wide field of view; 1/2-MOA windage/elevation adjustments; weaver-style rings included; bright 24mm objective lens
For those on a budget, this scope is included in Best Low Power Variable Optics (LPVO’s) Under $400 but not recommended for personal defense.

Finding The Best Low Power Variable Optics (LPVO’s) Under $400

Our search for the Best LPVO scopes was set at a price point of Under $400. At that price point, all of the scopes had a 30 mm tube, all had a type of BDC reticle and clear glass. All of the scopes had pretty good battery life but few had shake away technology so you have to manually turn them off. Most had very bright illumination and fair to good image quality. Low-powered variable optics are a great option at a fair price.

There are many reticle options and reticle designs but most are similar with the popular horse shoe with center dot and BDC hash marks. We have included the best budget lpvo’s that we did not recommend for home defense. We reviewed 1-8X magnification range and 1-6X magnification range. We have included second focal plane scope and first focal plane scopes in the review. We reviewed 1-8X scopes but no higher powers like the 1-10X scopes. The sweet spot for lpvo’s seems to be 1-6X lpvo designs. At the lower price ranges we did not expect to find the best LPV scopes (best rifle scope) with excellent glass clarity. Some were better than expected. Most reticles had a red center dot like a red dot optic. Most of the reticles are made for close-quarters engagement or tactical use. The Bushnell and TruGlo scopes have a more simple reticle for hunting.

SSP reticle BDC works only on max power and in my personal experience are the best option for most applications. The United States Military uses similar, but much higher quality, more expensive LPVO’s. All of these LPVO’s have great reticle design and good quality optic and are a good option for target shooting. None of these scopes are good enough for military forces, dangerous game, but these low powered variable optic are great optic for small game hunting but not at longer ranges.

Scopes not covered were some of the more expensive optics like, Eotech Vudu, Nightforce atacr, Nightforce nx, Swampfox optics Tomahawk, Swampfox Arrowhead, Viper pst, Vortex razor or Steiner t because of the price point restriction. You will have to choose the best LPVO for you based on intended use and personal preference. Optics planet as well as Amazon are good places to purchase these 1-6 x performance or long distances high quality scopes.

Low Power Variable Optic Scopes and the Focal Plane Difference

Low Power Variable Optic scopes, often referred to as LPVOs, are a type of rifle scope designed to provide a variable magnification range, typically starting at a low power setting such as 1x or 1.5x. This allows users to enjoy a wide field of view similar to a red dot sight at the lowest magnification, while also having the capability to zoom in for more precise shots at higher magnifications, often reaching up to 4x, 6x, or even 1-8x or 1-10x magnification.

These scopes are typically light weigh, though some of them have a pretty large footprint when built on 30mm or 34mm tubes with small objective lenses. Not by any means as compact as a red dot or holographic sights type like the EOTECH EXPS3 Holographic Weapon Sight.

Top LPVO Features:

Versatility:
- LPVO scopes are known for their adaptability. They excel in scenarios that require quick target acquisition at close ranges, similar to red dot sights, and seamlessly transition to precise shooting at longer distances with increased magnification.
True 1x Magnification:
- The “true 1x” feature of LPVO scopes means that at the lowest magnification setting, the sight picture appears without any magnification, providing a nearly distortion-free, wide field of view for fast target acquisition.
Speed and Accuracy:
- LPVO scopes offer a balance between speed and accuracy. Shooters can swiftly engage targets at close quarters and, with a simple adjustment, zoom in for more precise shots at extended ranges.

First Focal Plane (FFP) vs. Second Focal Plane (SFP) Scopes:

Low Power Variable Optics have many models with first focal plane and many second focal plane, and you must know the difference before selecting an LPVO. I will try to explain the difference between first focal plane (FFP) and second focal plane (SFP) scopes in common terms.

First Focal Plane (FFP) Scope:

In an FFP scope, the reticle is located in the first focal plane, meaning it changes size in direct proportion to the magnification level. When you increase the magnification, the reticle and the target both appear to grow larger, maintaining the same relationship. This is particularly beneficial for range estimation and holdover corrections, as these values remain constant across all magnification settings.

Advantages of FFP Scopes:

Reticle remains proportional to the target at all magnification levels.
Allows for accurate range estimation and holdover corrections at any magnification setting.

Cons of FFP Scopes:

The Reticle is very small and hard to see at low power where it is used the most.

Advantages of FFP Scope

The reticle is very small a low magnification and hard to see, especially with no illuminated reticle.

Ideal Use Cases:

Scenarios where precise holdover calculations are critical.

Second Focal Plane (SFP) Scope:

In an SFP scope, the reticle is located in the second focal plane, situated near the eyepiece. The reticle remains a constant size regardless of the magnification level. While this simplifies the sight picture, it means that subtensions (e.g., hash marks or mil dots) on the reticle are only accurate at a specific magnification setting.

Advantages of SFP Scopes:

Reticle remains a consistent size, making it easier to see at lower magnifications.
Simplicity in sight picture, especially for rapid target acquisition.

Ideal Use Cases:

Close range or Long range shooting at Max Magnification for ranging targets and hold over.

Conclusion:

After using scopes with both types of focal plains, I would always opt for the SFP. It is much easier to use at close range because you can actually see the reticle, and you will always want to be at max magnification ranging targets and shoots past 250 yards.

Choosing between FFP and SFP LPVO scopes depends on your specific needs and the shooting scenarios you anticipate. Whether you prioritize consistent subtensions across magnifications or a simpler sight picture at lower power settings, understanding the focal plane difference is key to maximizing the potential of your optics. As the demand for versatile optics continues to rise, LPVO scopes stand at the forefront, providing users with the flexibility to navigate diverse shooting environments with confidence and precision.

Best LPVO’s For PCC Carbines, Lever Action Rifles & 22 Semi-Autos

Low Power Variable Optics are not just for AR-15 rifles and can be great hunting scopes for some applications. The lever action rifle used by so many hunters in thick timber is a good application for a LPVO. Likewise, rifles like the Ruger PC Carbine often used for home defense is a perfect example of a great application for an LPVO.

An LPVO with SSP reticle is also great for 22 rimfire semi-auto rifles like the Ruger 10/22. Just imagine how much fun you could have chasing fast moving rabbits with a Ruger 10/22 topped off with a LPVO.

The ACSS type reticle is also perfect for head shots on a sitting bunny.

When it comes to selecting a Low Power Variable Optic (LPVO) for PCC Carbines or 22 Rifles, there are several factors to consider to ensure you choose an optic that suits your needs. LPVOs are popular for carbines because they provide a wide field of view at low magnifications for quick target acquisition and can be dialed up to higher magnifications for more precision. Here are some key considerations:

Magnification Range:
- Look for LPVOs with a versatile magnification range, typically starting at 1x for close-quarters engagements and going up to 6x or 8x for mid-range shots. For hunting, a base power of 1.5X SFP scope may be a better option.
- Consider the type of shooting you’ll be doing. If you anticipate engaging targets at longer distances, a higher magnification range might be beneficial.
Objective Lens Diameter:
- A larger objective lens allows more light to enter the optic, improving performance in low-light conditions. Most LPVO’s have 24MM objective but with low magnification, that is usually sufficient.
- However, larger objective lenses can add weight and size to the optic, so find a balance based on your preferences and needs.
Reticle Type:
- Choose a reticle that suits your shooting style. Many LPVOs feature illuminated reticles with a central dot for quick target acquisition. If you choose a FFP scope, illumination is a must.
- BDC (Ballistic Drop Compensation) reticles are useful for estimating bullet drop at different distances.
First Focal Plane (FFP) vs. Second Focal Plane (SFP):
- Consider whether you prefer an FFP or SFP reticle. FFP reticles change in size as you adjust magnification, while SFP reticles remain constant in size.
- FFP is advantageous for using the reticle’s features at any magnification, but SFP scopes are often more budget-friendly and easier to see at low power.
Durability and Construction:
- Look for a rugged and durable construction to withstand recoil and harsh conditions.
- Optics with waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof features are ideal for all-weather use.
Eye Relief and Eye Box:
- Adequate eye relief is essential to prevent scope bite, especially on rifles with heavier recoil.
- A forgiving eye box makes it easier to acquire a sight picture quickly, which is crucial in dynamic shooting situations.
Weight and Size:
- Consider the overall weight and size of the optic, especially if you value a lightweight and compact setup for your carbine.
Brand Reputation and Reviews:
- Stick to reputable brands with a history of producing reliable optics.
- Read reviews from other users to get insights into real-world performance and durability.

Popular LPVO brands include Vortex, Trijicon, Leupold, and Primary Arms, among others. Ultimately, the best LPVO for your carbine depends on your specific needs, budget, and the type of shooting you plan to do.

Enhancing Home Defense: The Role of Low Power Variable Optics

In recent years, the concept of home defense has evolved beyond traditional measures, with many enthusiasts turning to modern technology to bolster their safety. One such innovation gaining popularity is the use of Low Power Variable Optics (LPVO) as a valuable addition to home defense setups. Let’s explore the advantages of LPVOs and how they can play a crucial role in fortifying your home security.

Understanding Low Power Variable Optics

Low Power Variable Optics, commonly known as LPVOs, are versatile optics designed to provide users with a range of magnification options. Typically starting from 1x for a true 1:1 sight picture, they can be dialed up to higher magnifications, such as 4x, 6x, or 8x, to enhance target identification and engagement at varying distances. This adaptability makes them an excellent choice for both close-quarters situations of home defense.

Quick Target Acquisition in Close Quarters

One of the primary advantages of LPVOs for home defense is their ability to offer a wide field of view at lower magnifications. This feature is crucial in close-quarters scenarios, allowing users to acquire targets rapidly and maintain situational awareness within the confined spaces of a home. The 1x magnification provides a true “both eyes open” sight picture, facilitating quick and instinctive target engagement.

Precision at a Distance

While home defense often involves close encounters, there are situations where engagements may occur at longer distances. You home may be a farm or a ranch, not just a house or apartment. LPVOs, with their variable magnification capabilities, empower homeowners to identify and engage threats effectively, even in larger residential properties or situations where the need for precision arises.

Illuminated Reticles for Low-Light Situations

LPVOs often come equipped with illuminated reticles, a valuable feature for home defense during low-light conditions. Whether it’s nighttime or navigating dimly lit areas in the home, the illuminated reticle ensures a clear and visible aiming point. This enhances target acquisition and provides a distinct advantage in situations where split-second decisions matter.

Ballistic Drop Compensation (BDC) for Improved Accuracy

Some LPVOs feature BDC reticles, designed to compensate for bullet drop at various distances. This can be advantageous for those who want to take a precision approach to home defense, especially in larger properties where potential threats may be encountered at varying ranges.

Factors to Consider

When choosing an LPVO for home defense from the Best Low Power Variable Optics (LPVO’s) Under $400 review, choosing the proper reticle is paramount. In vary close quarters, an SSP reticle is usually best. Larger properties may be better suited to a FFP reticle. Additionally, selecting a reputable brand known for quality optics ensures reliability when it matters most. Vortex, Primary Arms and Burris at tops in ruggedness and have best warranties.

Conclusion

Incorporating a Low Power Variable Optic into your home defense strategy can provide a significant advantage in terms of speed, precision, and adaptability. As technology continues to evolve, these optics offer homeowners a modern solution to enhance their ability to protect their loved ones and property. Invest wisely, train responsibly, and bolster your home defense with the versatility of a quality LPVO.

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