The Best 1×4 Scope & Optics: Top 10 Picks [Buying Guide]

You have the rifle, you have the bullets, and most importantly, you have the persistence to hit the target clean every time!

But you think something’s holding you back…the scope you have right now SUCKS. It just can’t keep up with your close-range shooting needs!

So now you’re wondering what you can do.

Enter the world of the ever-reliable variable scopes, and my recommendations for the 10 BEST 1-4X SCOPES in the market right now.

Best Value

Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x24mm Throw Down PCL Riflescope

• Magnification: 1-4x
• Diameter: 24mm
• Eye Relief: 3.5 in

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Best Overall

Vortex Optics Crossfire II 1-4×24 DFP Riflescope

• Magnification: 1-4x
• Diameter: 24mm
• Eye Relief: 4 in

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Best Budget

Primary Arms 1-4×24 SFP Rifle Scope

• Magnification: 1-4x
• Diameter: 24mm
• Eye Relief: 3.5-4.9 in

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The 10 Best 1-4x Scope for the Money – Full Scope Reviews

1. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 1-4×24 DFP Riflescope

BEST OVERALL

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With the Vortex Optics Crossfire II illuminated riflescope, making your shots hit the target every time is made easy.

It works in extreme weather conditions, low light conditions, and EVEN AT NIGHT!

Regardless of the time of day, this scope delivers and helps me land precise shots every time!

The scope has a fast-eye-focusing feature that you need for tracking and accuracy with clarity.

I definitely love the multi-coated lenses on these ones!

Shooting in the dark is made easier because of the Illuminating System, too. Amazing right?

Adjust it to your heart and eye’s content with the easy-to-adjust turrets and minute-of-angle (MOA) tweaks!

On top of that, I can’t say enough good things about the durability of this great scope.

The Vortex Optics Crossfire II 1-4x illuminated riflescope has a shockproof feature because of the aircraft-grade aluminum material it’s made of.

AND YES. It comes in a 30mm tube diameter that is waterproof and shockproof.

Are you convinced yet? I sure hope so.

I can definitely say that the Vortex Optics Crossfire II 1-4 X will hold up under scrutiny.

Offering BIG and IMPRESSIVE qualities for LESS than the rest in the market, I wholeheartedly recommend this sight.

2. Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x24mm Throw Down PCL Riflescope

BEST VALUE

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I can fully vouch that you get MORE than what you ask for out of the Bushnell, AR Optic, the best 1-4x for value.

To give you a quick rundown, the scope features one of the best BRIGHTEST settings you can buy for that pinpoint accuracy that you’ve been itching for.

With a staggering 11 different brightness levels, this scope is easily adaptable to whatever environment you are in.

I went hunting on a dark night and saw my target CLEARLY, and I wasn’t even set to the brightest setting!

Did I mention that this scope has multi-coated lenses too? 

You’ll definitely be able to maintain clarity in various shooting situations and weather conditions!

It’s also lightweight and durable! I used to tire easily from carrying my gear around, but this scope made it easier!

It wouldn’t be intimidating for beginners, and it’s easy for seasoned veterans to use.

You can also channel your inner Robin Hood accuracy through Power Change Lever for all the adjustments you need. 

It helped reach a target from up to 500 yards away!

The featured throw lever adds both great tactical looks and function to this rifle scope.

The Drop Zone reticle automatically compensates for the bullet drop, giving you more time and brainpower to focus on hitting your target instead.

Not to mention, the scope reticle is a Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticle!

This means that the reticle size remains constant, regardless of the magnification for precision!

Bushnell AR Optics definitely outdid themselves on this one, and it’s a MUST-HAVE on your arsenal if you’re looking to turn your shooting experience up a notch.

3. Primary Arms 1-4×24 SFP Rifle Scope

BEST BUDGET

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You’re in for a treat with Primary Arms 1-4×24. It’s my top pick for the best 1-4x scope on a budget!

The scope features adjustable brightness settings on the red dot to suit your shooting needs.

Not only would it be perfect for daytime shooting, but it also EXCELS at night and in foggy conditions, thanks to the reticle adjustment feature!

The glass doesn’t disappoint as well; its multi-coated lenses offer the perfect light transmission for a 30mm tube diameter!

The eye relief on this one is TRULY RELIEVING with an adjustable distance between 3.5″ to 4.9″ for your comfort!

I got scope bite once, and it wasn’t fun, so I am grateful for this much eye relief.

It’s astounding how much this budget offering from Primary Arms can have these many features!

If you’re an entry-level shooter who wants a highly functional and durable scope to start your new hobby, this offering by Primary Arms is a no-brainer.

Reach your targets easily, comfortably, and with peace of mind with this best 1-4x scope on a budget!

UPDATE: Sadly, this scope has been discontinued, so you can only find it from third-party sellers. Bummer.

4. Trijicon TR24 Accupoint 1-4×24 Dual-Illuminated Riflescope

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If you’re looking for the perfect sight picture every time you look down the sights, look no further than the Trijicon TR24 Accupoint 1-4X scope.

Aside from the awesome magnification power, the Trijicon TR24 Accupoint is special because it features an impressive, fully multi-coated lens.

Say goodbye to distortion and hello to an accurate sight picture!

The highlight, however, is in the illumination settings.

The amazing illumination settings on this scope allow it to run WITHOUT batteries! No more need for constant battery changes and charging.

I just have to slap it on my scope, and I’m good to return to the field.

While I’m normally skeptical about battery-less illuminated reticles, I know Trijicon delivers on its promises.

The scopes adjust to the light conditions in your surroundings to give you the best level of light transmission, regardless of where you are.

This battery-less light transmission is all thanks to the fiber optic system and tritium lamp that the scope has inside its body!

It helps you achieve quick target acquisition through optimized built-in lighting. I’m amazed, too!

To top it all off, the body of the Trijicon TR24 Accupoint is made of strong aluminum construction.

Did we mention that this illuminated dot scope has a second focal plane reticle? That makes it much EASIER to aim with!

Flexibility, reliability, and durability. These are things that shooters such as myself always look for in our beloved scopes.

It may come with some minor drawbacks, like its weight, but if you don’t mind that, then by all means, get this scope!

This scope is a WORTH-IT investment for your rifle!

5. Steiner P4Xi 1-4×24 Riflescope

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The Steiner P4Xi will definitely make your shooting experience WORTHWHILE!

For this scope’s price range, though, I’m definitely sure you’ll get what you paid for and more with its features.

It enables you to reach medium-range targets and longer-range targets from up to 600 YARDS away with ease.

Regardless of the lighting situation, I’m secured, thanks to its well-made, fully multi-coated lens. Clarity and accuracy are well within reach!

If you want to take things up a notch, this 1-4x scope is designed to work well with night vision devices and magnification attachments, too!

I was fortunate to try this scope with a pair of night vision goggles, and I was able to hunt with no issue!

Aside from enjoying the 1-4x magnification, I can assure you this is one of the MOST VERSATILE scopes you can use on various guns.

I highly recommend this product to shooters of ALL disciplines and experiences!

With its versatility, range accuracy, and clarity, the Steiner P4Xi scope is a definite 1-4x magnification scope you must have in your arsenal!

6. Vortex Optics Viper PST 1-4×24 SFP Riflescope

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Everyone in the optics community knows about Vortex.

The company produces a wide array of quality rifle scopes which earned the trust of our community.

I went from a skeptic to a loyalist after using their scopes!

One of their products, the Vortex Optics Viper PST is an all-rounder scope I just can’t get enough of!

Why do you ask?

It excels thanks to its FEATURES AND UNBEATABLE QUALITY.

The Viper PST 1-4x scope has a 30mm shockproof tube and an elevation adjustment feature to calibrate to your needs.

Precise shooting won’t be a chore with a reticle made for sharp accuracy, an illumination that is ideal for low light situations and even severe weather conditions.

And the best part?

It has an extremely high-quality, fully multi-coated lens to enhance the resolution of the target you’re spotting.

If you’re looking for an all-around scope that you can easily snap on any of your compatible rifles at a mid-range price, I HIGHLY recommend the Viper PST!

7. Athlon Talos BTR 1-4×24 Scope

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I will be upfront about what I love about the Talos BTR.

THE DUPLEX CROSSHAIR IS STAMPED. DIRECTLY ON THE GLASS.

A stamped reticle does have its pros and cons, and unlike an illuminated reticle, this won’t really be ideal for night shooting.

But if you’re a scope purist who likes to dial-in reticles the old-fashioned way but with a bit of a modern, mil-dot touch, you wouldn’t regret picking up the Talos BTR!

With its fully multi-coated optics, seeing a perfect sight picture of your target comes EASY.

Light transmission with these gorgeous glass pieces will offer you the accuracy you need!

You can bid moisture goodbye, too!

The Talos BTR 1-4×24 Scope is built like a tank. I don’t doubt that it will last me years, thanks to its EXTREMELY DURABLE aluminum material.

So how is the moisture kept out?

The aluminum tube that this scope has is heat-treated, making it extremely durable.

Looking for a well-built scope that can tank the environment can be hard, as rifle scopes can be fragile.

You wouldn’t have that problem with the Talos BTR, though!

This one is guaranteed to last you years and years, regardless of light conditions.

8. Monstrum G2 1-4×24 First Focal Plane FFP Rifle Scope

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Channel your inner PRECISION MONSTER with the MONSTRUM G2!

This high-precision tactical rifle scope’s shining feature is the functionally designed first focal plane rangefinder reticle.

This guarantees easy-to-read ranging, regardless of the magnification level you’re on.

With this, I definitely find myself making quick tactical decisions and faster range estimation.

To make things even more amazing, this 1-4x scope has an illuminated reticle to help you track close-range targets in the dark.

The scope is made of aircraft-grade aluminum construction sealed and nitrogen-charged for water and fog resistance.

The only drawback that might make you pass on this great tactical rifle scope is the limited compatibility.

Just make sure to check the specs of your rifle and decide if this is compatible. 

If it is, then you know the drill! I promise you won’t regret it.

This can be the right scope for you if you’re a hunter who wants a touch of modern flexibility for accurate shooting.

Having adjustable, illuminated reticles (green or red dot) can work wonders, and the aircraft-grade aluminum durability is not something you should ignore!

As long as your rifle is compatible, I definitely recommend it!

9. Burris MTAC 1-24×24 Illuminated Scope

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Coming at just a little longer than 11″, portability was never an issue for me with its compact and lightweight size.

But it doesn’t stop there!

The scope features a decent adjustment level of 100 yards, making mid-range shooting easier.

I’m sure you’d be excited with the reticle on this one, too! IT GLOWS!

It’s also compatible with a wide range of uses! This is a Swiss army knife of a scope that’s reliable on a hunt or in the field

The downsides for this 1-4x scope, though, are the fisheye effect the glass can make.

If you don’t mind those small things and just want to focus on pristine shooting, step right up!

With the Burris MTAC, though, you get a FLEXIBLE option for your rifles. This scope is surely worth the price!

UPDATE: This scope has also been discontinued, so you can only find it from third-party sellers.

10. Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4×20 Riflescope (for Shotgun/Muzzleloader)

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The Leupold VX-1 is one of my top choices in this best 1-4x scopes list!

Why?

This rifle scope is designed for dead-eye accuracy within short to medium ranged shooting!

The VX specs will surely excite you!

This 1-4x scope can help you compensate for wind drift and ballistic bullet drop with a 123 MOA adjustment range for windage and elevation for better accuracy.

Light transmission is exceptional, thanks to the proprietary Quantum Optical system that can deliver lighting of up to 92% HIGHER RESOLUTION and color fidelity!

It was like looking through a clear glass window on a sunny day!

Aiming down the sights on a VX also made it more convenient with the heavy duplex dot reticle that can assist you in low-light conditions.

Adjustments are also as easy to make as pulling the trigger!

The scope has a lockable fast-focus eyepiece and a low-profile tactile zoom lever for that easy one-finger zooming you’ve been dreaming of.

I haven’t even started with the build quality yet!

The build is something I can’t get enough of, with a 6061-T6 aluminum body housing in an oh-so-sleek and sexy matte black finish!

PLUS: You can say goodbye to objective lens fog with the nitrogen-filled body! Leupold, you’ve done it again!

The Leupold VX-1 is a gem to have if you’re in too short to medium-range shooting that is ideal for a lot of situations!

Did I mention they have a lifetime warranty?

To find more optics for shotguns, check out this buying guide!

UPDATE: Unfortunately, this scope has been discontinued and is no longer available. You can find this scope from third-party sellers only.

What Is a 1-4x Scope?

As the numbers imply, a 1-4x scope is a rifle scope that has a magnification range from 1x-4x.

To put it simply, imagine this:

• 1x is another way of saying zero magnification power, or basically how your eyes normally see.
• 4x means the target is 4x bigger in your sights than it actually is from your perspective.

The scopes at this range are also called Low Power Variable Optics (LPVO) as they only have power for short to mid-range accuracy.

Variable scopes have come a long way, and I can definitely say that 1-4x scopes are a FANTASTIC addition to your arsenal.

This kind of variable scope is becoming a popular choice among shooting hobbyists because of the flexibility it brings to the table!

Just imagine being able to hit your shots up to 200 yards with maximum magnification.

The benefits of these scopes are basically endless, and getting one (or two) of these bad boys can definitely make your shooting experience worthwhile!

Things to Consider Before Buying the Best 1×4 Riflescopes

Now that I’ve discussed what 1-4x scopes are, let’s get down to the basics of what to consider when buying your first 1-4x scope.

I examine these factors every time I need a new scope.

TAKE NOTE: You can apply this information in buying variable scopes of other magnification ranges as well!

Compatibility

When it comes to buying high-quality scopes, the first thing you should look at is if it’s compatible with your rifle!

The amazing optics and magnification range won’t matter if it doesn’t fit your gun, right?

1-4x scopes usually come with mounting rings. It’s best to check with the manufacturer if it is compatible with your setup.

These 1-4x scopes usually fit just fine with an AR-15. Just make sure to check the railings to see if they fit the scope body and mounting.

You can learn how to mount an AR-15 scope with iron sights here!

Lenses

The lenses are essentially the MOST IMPORTANT part of the scope system. You wouldn’t be zooming in anywhere or even aiming anywhere without it!

Lens quality is one of the first things you look at when shopping for a new scope, too.

It’s ideal to get a fully multi-coated optic, as that will allow you to shoot in various situations and lighting conditions.

Another important factor is the objective lens diameter. The common diameter of the 1-4x scope is 24mm, but they can vary depending on your needs!

Don’t be afraid to ask how the lenses perform in different weather conditions!

You’ll be looking and spotting through your scopes, so it’s best to get one that suits your shooting style. It should also have excellent objective lens quality.

Reticle Type

Choosing the right reticle type will depend on how you use the 1-4x scope.

There are different types of reticles, like the duplex reticle and the mil-dot reticle, and choosing which one is best for you completely depends on your aiming preferences and purpose.

Some scopes have additional features like an illuminated reticle for better vision in certain situations and lighting conditions!

It’s important to note the reticles are placed on different focal planes, too!

There are two kinds of focal planes for reticles:

• The FIRST focal plane reticle size changes as you zoom in, making the reticle bigger with higher magnification and smaller at a lower magnification.
• The SECOND focal plane reticle keeps the reticle size constant. This is because the reticle is placed on the scope’s eyepiece right before the magnification system.

Choosing the right reticle according to your preferences can help greatly. It’s best to try different types to find what you’re comfortable with!

Eye Relief

Making yourself comfortable with the hunting scope you use is extremely essential, too.

Of course, you’d want to consider the right kind of eye relief in the 1-4x scope that you’ll be using.

Different shooters have different preferences for this.

For example, if you are military-trained, you’d prefer a shorter eye relief in your 1-4x scope because you’ll be shooting Nose to Charging Handle (NTCH).

Casual shooters and hobbyists, however, will want longer eye relief for comfort and eye protection.

Believe me. No one wants to get punched in the eye by their scope due to strong recoil.

Just take note that the long eye relief for a 1-4x scope is usually 4 inches, so it’s best to keep that in mind!

Field of View

The field of view is the size of the viewing area in your scope as you aim down.

Think of this as the measurement of a target from a range and as the area that is visible through the scope at a range of 100 yards.

Consider this when purchasing your next scope because using the right field of view can help you, depending on your shooting style or discipline!

Windage and Elevation Adjustment

More often than not, some 1-4x scopes will not include these essential knobs.

Obviously, windage and elevation adjustments are important for you to land a direct shot, so do not ignore these!

Price

You wouldn’t want to spend your hard-earned cash on things you wouldn’t like, right?

While it is obvious that a budget 1-4x scope wouldn’t perform like the ones at the top of the line, that doesn’t mean the essential functionalities wouldn’t work the same.

Always consider the features you need based on your shooting style and habits! My list of recommendations above will surely help you decide on which one to get.

DON’T FORGET: The most important part of your hobby isn’t the gear but the experience of having fun with what you do!

However, if you have a specific budget in mind for buying a new rifle scope, you can check out my guides on the best rifle scopes for under five hundred dollars and under three hundred dollars for more options.

Is a 1-4x Scope For You?

Yes!

In my opinion, 1-4x scopes are GREAT for beginners who want to practice easy target acquisition and shooting at closer distances first.

Once you’re ready to move up to longer distances, a 1-4x scope is good for that too! 1-4x scopes NO-NONSENSE scopes that can teach you the basics at LOW prices.

How to Zero a 1-4x Scope

So you got the scope of your dreams…

CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR INVESTMENT! It’s definitely well worth it.

So now you enter the shooting range to fire a few test rounds on your shiny and brand-new 1-4x scope.

You tell yourself that everything feels right…

The magnification is pristine, the optics let ample light in, and the duplex dot reticle feels so good to aim with!

And now, as you pull the trigger on your AR-15, you begin feeling like your shots aren’t connecting…

Why? Well, I think you forgot to zero in on your new hunting scope! (Don’t worry, I’ve been there)

Basically, what you’ll be doing is simple!

Just think of this as an adjustment for your bullet, with consideration for the world’s physics and how your bullet interacts with gravity.

You just need to align the Point of Aim (POA) to the Point of Impact (POI), depending on how far your target is.

You can check the video below for a quick crash course to zeroing your hunting scope!

1-4x Scope vs. Red Dot: Which Is Better?

Red dots are great for short-range shooting, but in my opinion, they don’t outclass 1-4x scopes.

For starters, red dots don’t have their own magnification and need a magnifier to zoom in, while 1-4x scopes have that at the ready.

They also require batteries, so once the battery runs out, you will have to spend more on them; the next thing you know, your wallet is drained from batteries alone.

Not to mention, the red dot becomes useless!

Fortunately, some red dot batteries last long, and target acquisition is QUICK, thanks to their illuminated dots.

However, you get all of that WITHOUT the hassle of batteries or the lack of magnification with a 1-4x scope.

All it takes to zoom in on a scope is a twist of the magnification knob. It’s simpler, quicker, and less hassle.

At the end of the day, it depends on you!

Frequently Asked Questions

What Range Is a 1-4x Scope Good For?

100-500 yards is a good range to start with for a 1-4x scope. It allows the user to practice both close-range and mid-range shooting.

What Magnification Is Best for 100 Yards?

At 100 yards, a 1x magnification will suffice.

A general rule of thumb is 1x magnification per 100 yards, which can also depend on different factors.

In this case, you won’t need a super high magnification for a target as close as 100 yards only.

Is a 4X Scope Good for Hunting?

Yes!

A 4x scope will give you enough magnification to hunt for small game.

In fact, I can say that 4x is just right for any hunting situation!

How Far Can You See With 1-4×24 Scope?

In my experience, targets from 600 yards at most will still look clear with a 1-4×24 scope.

Conclusion

My top recommendation, the Vortex Optics Crossfire II, will surely amaze you as your daily driver for your AR-15! Its perfect mix of functionality, durability, and price are all factors that will please shooters from all disciplines.

Meanwhile, the Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x24mm Throw Down PCL Riflescope oozes in high-value functions and additional features that you wouldn’t regret, making it the best value scope for the money.

But if you’re a budget-conscious shooter or just a beginner in the hobby, you just can’t go wrong with the Primary Arms 1-4×24 SFP Rifle Scope! It has everything you need, all for a decent price!

I genuinely hope that our list helped you decide on the right 1-4x scope you need to channel your inner Robin Hood accuracy!