17 Best LPVO & 1-6x Scopes (Budget, Tactical, Hunting)

Are you looking for a low power variable optic to use when hunting? Do you need a scope that has all the illuminated reticle features or one that is a reliable daily driver?

Choosing a low power variable optic is one of the hardest decisions because of the wide variety of options in the optics industry. That said, there is bound to be one that fits your needs, and I am here to help you find it.

This is because choosing the best LPVO or tactical 1-6x scope means comparing their minimum and maximum magnification, glass clarity, and other features.

In this complete guide, I will compare the best LPVO scopes and give you their pros and cons, as well as factors to consider to help you choose the best one for your needs.

• Best Overall: Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24
• Best for AR-15: Bushnell Trophy QA 1-6×24
• Best Budget Scope: Monstrum Alpha Series 1-6×24
• Most Versatile Scope: Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24 Gen IV
• Best Tactical Scope: EOTech Vudu 1-10×28
• Best Precision Scope: Primary Arms Compact PLx 1-8×24
• Best Hunting Scope: Leupold Patrol 6HD 1-6×24
• Best for 3-Gun Competitions: Sig Sauer Tango MSR 1-6×24
• Best for Designated Marksman: Trijicon Credo HX 1-8×28
• Best for CQB: Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24
• Most Durable Scope: Vortex Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6×24
• Best for Quick Target Acquisition: Hawke Vantage 1-8×24
• Best Lightweight Scope: Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6×24
• Best FFP Scope: Nightforce NX8 1-8×24
• Best SFP Scope: Crimson Trace HardLine 1-10×28
• Best LPVO Under $300: Riton 3 Tactix 1-8×24
• Best Midrange Scope: GPO Spectra 6x 1.5-9×44

Best Overall

Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24

• Magnification Range: 1-8x
• Objective Diameter: 24 mm
• Length: 10 in
• Weight: 17.6 oz (499 g)
• FFP/SFP: SFP
• Reticle: AR-BDC3

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Best for AR-15

Bushnell Trophy QA 1-6x24

• Magnification Range: 1-6x
• Objective Diameter: 24 mm
• Length: 10.3 in
• Weight: 18 oz (510.3 g)
• FFP/SFP: SFP
• Reticle: Dot Drop

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Best Budget Scope

Monstrum Alpha Series 1-6x24

• Magnification Range: 1-6x
• Objective Diameter: 24 mm
• Length: 10.2 in
• Weight: 14 oz (396.9 g)
• FFP/SFP: FFP
• Reticle: Type-C

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1. Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 (Best Overall)

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Key Features

• Magnification Range: 1-8x
• Objective Diameter: 24 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm 
• Reticle Options: AR-BDC3
• Field of View: 14.4 – 109 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: Second focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.5 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Capped
• Length: 10 in
• Weight: 17.6 oz (499 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.5 in
• Other Special Features: Parallax is non-adjustable and fixed at 100 yards, reticle illumination with different brightness settings, has an etched reticle so it still works when the battery dies

The Vortex Strike Eagle can be considered the best LPVO scope for most people. It offers all the high-quality features you need in a Low Power Variable Optic without being too expensive or overcomplicated.

One of the key additions to this rifle scope is the BDC (bullet drop compensation) reticle. Compared to other LPVOs with the standard duplex style, the Vortex Strike Eagle has hash marks to help calculate bullet drop compensation.

The Vortex Strike Eagle also has an illuminated reticle that helps you better aim at a target in low-light conditions. What is remarkable is that the reticle itself is etched, so you can still see it even if the battery dies during use.

The Vortex Strike Eagle is, quite possibly, the best LPVO optic with an unbelievable value for money. It has all the turret adjustments you need, good eye relief, and optical quality you cannot get on another scope, all at the affordable price of $599 retail.

2. Bushnell Trophy QA 1-6×24 (Best for AR-15)

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Key Features

• Magnification Range: 1-6x
• Objective Diameter: 24 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm 
• Reticle Options: Dot drop
• Field of View: 19 – 112 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: Second focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.5 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Capped
• Length: 10.3 in
• Weight: 18 oz (510.3 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.7 in
• Other Special Features: Parallax is fixed and not adjustable at 100 yards, reticle is illuminated for nighttime visibility, optimized for hunting and for use with an AR-15, IPX7 waterproof to withstand the elements

The Bushnell Trophy Quick Acquisition 1-6×24 is the best pick if you want to mount an LPVO scope on your AR-15. Its 1x minimum magnification – 6x zoom range is similar to many LPVOs, and it has a wide field of view to assist with short to midrange use cases.

Furthermore, if you are looking for a cheaper model that will not break the bank but provide a reliable, decent performance, this is the one for you.

One of the underrated features of this Bushnell Trophy QA 1-6×24 scope is its low-profile adjustment turrets. They are easy to adjust but do not stick out too much, which helps reduce the risk of accidental adjustments.

Having turrets that help you rather than hinder you on an AR-15 that you will be lugging around a lot, whether for hunting or short to midrange plinking, is a great feature. This is what makes the Bushnell Trophy a must-buy.

3. Monstrum Alpha Series 1-6×24 (Best Budget Scope)

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Key Features

• Magnification Range: 1-6x
• Objective Diameter: 24 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm 
• Reticle Options: Type-C
• Field of View: 16.1 – 103.2 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: First focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.5 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Exposed
• Length: 10.2 in
• Weight: 14 oz (396.9 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.5 – 3.9 in
• Other Special Features: No parallax information available (but it is fixed), all-brass turrets, fog and water-resistant, nitrogen-sealed, fully integrated throw lever for quick zoom changes

If you are looking for the best budget LPVO on the market, the Monstrum Alpha Series 1-6×24 is your best bet. It is a Low Power Variable Optic that is a smidge under $150 yet performs admirably well.

While it is missing some features that other scopes on this list have, like other reticle options, illumination, and premium lenses, it does all the basics well.

When looking at the price point, this LPVO stands out compared to other cheap scopes because of the long eye box, unique reticle, quick magnification knob adjustment, and fog proofing it offers.

While this scope is not for those looking for the best image quality or those hoping to make long-range shots, it is a great option for those who only need a brighter reticle during the day and a first focal plane optic at a low price.

4. Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24 Gen IV (Most Versatile Scope)

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Key Features

• Magnification Range: 1-6x
• Objective Diameter: 24 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm 
• Reticle Options: ACSS Aurora, Nova Fiber Wire, 300BO
• Field of View: 19.3 – 110 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: Second focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.5 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Capped
• Length: 10.4 in
• Weight: 17.9 oz (507.5 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.5 in
• Other Special Features: No parallax information available (but it is fixed), low-profile turrets, reticle is illuminated for low light performance with 11 brightness settings, Silver Rated by the National Tactical Officers Association, fully water and fog proof

If you are looking for versatile LPVO scopes that can adjust and adapt to any situation, then the Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24 is your best bet. The reticle options, zoom, and lightweight construction make it the all-around stand-out.

The Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24 has all the standard offerings any suitable LPVO scope needs, like magnification setting adjustments, good optical performance, and an illuminated reticle.

However, one defining feature is the ACSS reticle that can be calibrated to your rifle’s specific caliber, whether it be 5.56, 5.45, or .308. That makes it highly adjustable and versatile by compensating for differing muzzle velocity.

The Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24 is one of the best LPVO scopes if you value versatility, are looking at second focal plane scopes, and do not want to break the bank.

5. EOTech Vudu 1-10×28 (Best Tactical Scope)

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Key Features

• Magnification Range: 1-10x
• Objective Diameter: 28 mm
• Tube Diameter: 34 mm 
• Reticle Options: SR4, SR5, LE5 Cross-Hair
• Field of View: 11.7 – 116.6 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: First focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.25 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Capped
• Length: 10.6 in
• Weight: 21.3 oz (603.8 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.3 – 3.9 in
• Other Special Features: No parallax information is available (but it is fixed), low-profile tactical turrets, reticle is illuminated for low light performance with ten brightness settings, has a detachable throw lever for changing quickly from high to low magnification, and Japanese glass for superior optical performance

If you are looking for a Low Power Variable Optic that offers excellent quality optics, better light transmission, higher zoom, and is from a reputable brand, then the EOTech Vudu 1-10×28 should be your first draft pick.

This tactical LPVO stands out from the rest because it uses Japanese glass and high-quality build construction. It also has a higher zoom than other LPVOs while retaining the low magnification ranges.

This wider zoom range, along with a detachable throw lever, gives it an advantage in tactical situations that other AR optics cannot compare with. This makes it a deadly companion to have while in the field.

Although EOTech is known for its holographic and red dot sights, the company has used its expertise in holographic optics when constructing rifle scopes like this one.

You cannot go wrong with EOTech scopes.

6. Primary Arms Compact PLx 1-8×24 (Best Precision Scope)

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Key Features

• Magnification Range: 1-8x
• Objective Diameter: 24 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm 
• Reticle Options: ACSS Raptor M8, Griffin MIL
• Field of View: 14.6 – 121 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: First focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.1 MIL adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Capped
• Length: 9.3 in
• Weight: 17 oz (481.9 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.2 – 3.7 in
• Other Special Features: No parallax information available (but it is fixed), user-configurable stippled grip turrets, reticle is illuminated for low-light performance, has a detachable throw lever for changing quickly from high to low magnification, and Japanese glass for superior optical performance

Other than the Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24, there is also the Primary Arms PLx 1-8×24. The main difference between the two is the extra zoom on the latter, which helps make it a higher-precision shooting optic.

The Primary Arms PLx 1-8×24 shares features with the Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24, including the lightweight but durable design, ACSS reticles, and wide field of view.

However, the Primary Arms PLx is in the first focal plane and has far superior quality optics. It also has more zoom and precise adjustments compared to the Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24.

This Primary Arms PLx model costs nearly 5x that of the Primary Arms SLx, so it’s up to you to decide if these extra features are worth it for the precision shooting advantage.

7. Leupold Patrol 6HD 1-6×24 (Best Hunting Scope)

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Key Features

• Magnification Range: 1-6x
• Objective Diameter: 24 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm 
• Reticle Options: FireDot Duplex, CM-R2
• Field of View: 19.2 – 120.9 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: Second focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.25 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Capped
• Length: 10.8 in
• Weight: 16.2 oz (459.3 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.8 in
• Other Special Features: Fixed 150-yard parallax, CDS turret adjustment system, reticle is illuminated for low-light performance, waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof

The Leupold Patrol 6HD 1-6×24 is the best LPVO for deer hunting. This is because of the lightweight but durable construction, low-light performance, reticle illumination, and the simple and clear BDC reticle onboard.

Leupold is one of the well-known brands when it comes to rifle scopes, and the 1-6x magnification 6HD is one of their best offerings. The glass clarity combines with the CDS system and wide field of view for great outdoor performance.

Being only 16.2 ounces, it will not weigh down on your rifle as you walk around looking for game to hunt. It also has a reticle that illuminates in the dark to help you pinpoint the targets even after sunset.

8. Sig Sauer Tango MSR 1-6×24 (Best for 3-Gun Competitions)

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Key Features

• Magnification Range: 1-6x
• Objective Diameter: 24 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm 
• Reticle Options: MSR BDC-6, Illuminated BDC
• Field of View: 19.6 – 124.8 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: Second focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.5 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Capped
• Length: 14 in
• Weight: 18.5 oz (524.5 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.9 in
• Other Special Features: Fixed parallax, reticle is illuminated with 11 brightness settings, IPX7 waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof, Removable throw lever and includes scope mounts

The Tango MSR from Sig Sauer is probably the best LPVO scope for use in 3-gun competitions (rifle-pistol-shotgun). This is not just because it was made for use on MSRs, but because of its features.

Along with the standard LPVO features like 1-6x zoom, the Tango MSR reticle has 11 brightness settings to help you aim better on target in any lighting condition. The adjustment turrets are stippled for better grip, too.

The eye relief is one of the best on this list, which is essential when moving from target to target and switching guns quickly.

Finally, it is waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof, with the latter being the most important when shooting in a more humid environment. You want the clearest sight picture in high-pressure 3-gun competitions.

9. Trijicon Credo HX 1-8×28 (Best for Designated Marksman)

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Key Features

• Magnification Range: 1-6x
• Objective Diameter: 28 mm
• Tube Diameter: 34 mm 
• Reticle Options: MOA Segmented Circle
• Field of View: 13.2 – 105.8 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: First focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.25 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Capped
• Length: 10.8 in
• Weight: 25.6 oz (725.7 g)
• Eye Relief: 4 in
• Other Special Features: Fixed parallax, low-profile turrets with zero-stop, reticle is illuminated with five red dot and five green dot settings, waterproof to 3 meters (10 feet)

If you are training to be a designated marksman or want something that bridges the gap between red dot optics and sniper scopes, then the Trijicon Credo HX 1-8×28 is the best LPVO for you.

The main advantage of this scope is the ability to do two-eyes-open shooting. This allows a shooter to keep tabs on their surroundings while still putting in accurate shots down range.

It also has different illumination colors and settings on its reticle, with five red dot and five green dot options. This is useful in constantly shifting tactical conditions in the field or busy city backdrops.

However, at nearly $2,000, this is not a cheap optic by any standard, but it could be worth it, especially if you find it at a discount.

10. Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 (Best for CQB)

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Key Features

• Magnification Range: 1-8x
• Objective Diameter: 24 mm
• Tube Diameter: 34 mm 
• Reticle Options: FC-DMx
• Field of View: 13.1 – 96.1 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: First focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.1 MIL adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Capped
• Length: 10 in
• Weight: 21 oz (595.3 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.7 in
• Other Special Features: Fixed parallax at 140 yards, low-profile turrets with grips, reticle offers daylight bright illumination, integrated power throw lever for quick zoom level adjustment

If you are looking for a good CQB scope that prioritizes fast target acquisition with better maximum magnification, then the Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 is your best bet.

This scope is one of the few on this list with illumination on the reticle that can be seen even during the daytime. This makes it act as a pseudo-red dot in terms of aiming at multiple targets in CQB situations.

The low-profile capped adjustment turrets help reduce the accidental bumps that can offset your zero. These bumps and scrapes can easily set off the zero, especially in chaotic CQB environments.

However, this scope is not for the budget-oriented enthusiast, as you can usually find it for a little under $3,000.

11. Vortex Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6×24 (Most Durable Scope)

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Key Features

• Magnification Range: 1-6x
• Objective Diameter: 24 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm 
• Reticle Options: JM-1 BDC, VMR-2 MOA, VMR-2 MRAD
• Field of View: 20.5 – 115.2 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: Second focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.5 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Capped
• Length: 10.1 in
• Weight: 21.5 oz (609.5 g)
• Eye Relief: 4 in
• Other Special Features: Fixed parallax at 100 yards, low-profile turrets with friction reduction, reticle offers 11 brightness settings and a daylight bright center dot, HD lens elements plus fully multi-coated lenses, Made with aircraft-grade aluminum, coated with ArmorTek scratch, oil, and dust resistant coating, shockproof, waterproof, and fog proof

If you want to take your LPVO scope wherever you go and expect it to perform perfectly throughout, then the Vortex Razor HD is the perfect optic for you.

The Vortex Razor is all about being durable and reliable, starting with its aircraft-grade aluminum construction. It is also finished in a patented ArmorTek scratch, oil, and dust-resistant coating.

Furthermore, the lenses are waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof, meaning they can be used in all conditions without damage. Plus, they are very clear, being made with HD lens elements.

However, the Vortex Razor is not for everyone, as the nearly $2,400 price tag can be too much for some shooters. That said, this is the one to get if you are looking for a rugged scope without compromises.

12. Hawke Vantage 1-8×24 (Best for Quick Target Acquisition)

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Key Features

• Magnification Range: 1-8x
• Objective Diameter: 24 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm 
• Reticle Options: L4A Dot, Circle Dot, 1 MOA
• Field of View: 15.1 – 20.4 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: Second focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.5 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Capped
• Length: 10.5 in
• Weight: 16.5 oz (467.8 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.5 in
• Other Special Features: Fixed parallax at 100 yards, reticle is illuminated with either a green or red dot and five brightness levels, fog proof and waterproof lenses

If you want an LPVO to be used primarily in closer-range engagements, then the Hawke Vantage 1-8×24 is the best option. It has features that help a shooter aim faster and hit what they are aiming at.

One of the features that helps in fast target acquisition is its lightweight design. At only 16.5 ounces, it is lighter and more maneuverable than most other scopes on this list.

Including the fast focus eyepiece, green and red dot options on the illumination on the reticle, and the simple but easy-to-use German #4 style LPVO reticle means it aims in very quickly, allowing you to move from target to target with ease.

However, if you want to use a caliber with more bullet drop than normal, look elsewhere. The simplicity of the reticle also means that there are no hash marks to compensate for bullet drop.

13. Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6×24 (Best Lightweight Scope)

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Key Features

• Magnification Range: 1-6x
• Objective Diameter: 24 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm 
• Reticle Options: AR-BDC3
• Field of View: 19.2 – 116.5 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: Second focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.5 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Capped
• Length: 10.5 in
• Weight: 18.5 oz (524.5 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.5 in
• Other Special Features: Fixed parallax at 100 yards, low-profile turrets, reticle has illumination to help with low light performance, has an etched reticle so it still works when the battery dies, O-ring sealed for water and fog proofing

If you are looking for the best scope that happens to also be lightweight, the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6×24 is your best bet. It is the compact little brother of our top pick, the 1-8x variant.

One of the differences between the two Vortex Strike Eagle models is the zoom. This Vortex Strike Eagle model only goes up to 6x while the other goes up to 8x.

However, it is also much cheaper at $399 instead of $599. The extra zoom and better optical performance on the 8x Strike Eagle model might be worth it to you, though.

If your budget only stretches to a maximum of $400 and you prefer a much lighter scope, then this 1-6x Strike Eagle is more than enough.

14. Nightforce NX8 1-8×24 (Best FFP Scope)

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Key Features

• Magnification Range: 1-8x
• Objective Diameter: 24 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm 
• Reticle Options: FC-MOA, FC-Mil
• Field of View: 13.2 – 106.0 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: First focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.5 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Capped
• Length: 8.7 in
• Weight: 17 oz (481.9 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.7 in
• Other Special Features: Fixed parallax at 125 yards, low-profile turrets, ZeroStop system, reticle has illumination to help with low light performance, comes included with rubber lens covers

If your primary requirement for getting an LPVO is that it is in the first focal plane, then the Nightforce NX8 1-8×24 should be your pick.

This LPVO from Nightforce has great glass quality and is very lightweight, especially for a scope that can go all the way to 8x zoom. It is also not too long or wide that other scope mount systems will not fit.

One helpful feature not found on many other rifle scopes is the ZeroStop adjustment turret. You can easily return to zero after firing using this high-zoom scope with MIL reticles at the flick of your wrist.

Unfortunately, this rifle is not for those looking for the best budget LPVO because it is pretty expensive at $1,750. However, if you value glass clarity and need an FFP LPVO, this is the best scope for you.

15. Crimson Trace HardLine 1-10×28 (Best SFP Scope)

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Key Features

• Magnification Range: 1-10x
• Objective Diameter: 28 mm
• Tube Diameter: 34 mm 
• Reticle Options: Illuminated MOA/Mil Dot
• Field of View: 12 – 118.5 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: Second focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.5 MOA or 0.1 MIL adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Capped
• Length: 10.9 in
• Weight: 18 oz (510.3 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.5 in
• Other Special Features: Fixed parallax at 100 yards, reticle has LED illumination to help with low-light performance, fully multi-coated lenses, shockproof, fog proof, and IPX7 waterproof

On the other hand, if you are specifically looking for an SFP scope, then the Crimson Trace HardLine 1-10×28 scope should be your go-to option.

Aside from the excellent zoom lens that stretches from 1x to 10x, it has many reticle design options. There is a MIL/MRAD and an MOA option, with both being illuminated.

The HardLine 1-10×28 is also quite durable, being made of aerospace-grade aluminum with the lenses being fog proof, shockproof, and IPX7 waterproof.

This is the perfect scope for someone looking for an SFP that has the most options for reticles.

16. Riton 3 Tactix 1-8×24 (Best LPVO under $300)

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Key Features

• Magnification Range: 1-8x
• Objective Diameter: 24 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm 
• Reticle Options: OT/PDTR
• Field of View: 13.1 – 105.8 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: Second focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.5 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Capped
• Length: 10.9 in
• Weight: 19.3 oz (547.1 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.5 in
• Other Special Features: Fixed parallax at 100 yards, zero-stop adjustment, 11 levels of red dot illumination on the reticle, comes included with flip covers, fully multi-coated lenses that are waterproof

If your budget is capped at a maximum of $300, then your best option is the Riton 3 Tactix 1-8×24. This optic is one of the best options for a more budget-conscious buyer.

The Riton 3 Tactix has slightly more zoom than the average scope, reaching up to 8x. It also has a 3.5-inch eye relief, which is not amazing but is not bad either.

The real value of this scope comes in the 11 illumination settings for the reticle, the fully multi-coated waterproof lenses, and the unique BDC hash mark reticle.

The best part is that it comes in at under $300. It is not the best in any category but does everything decently well at a price point others cannot compete with.

17. GPO Spectra 6x 1.5-9×44 (Best Mid-Range Scope)

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Key Features

• Magnification Range: 1.5-9x
• Objective Diameter: 44 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm 
• Reticle Options: G4i
• Field of View: 15 – 91.1 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: Second focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.5 MOA or 0.1 MIL adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Capped
• Length: 13.3 in
• Weight: 20.3 oz (575.5 g)
• Eye Relief: 4 in
• Other Special Features: Fixed parallax at 100 yards, daytime use red dot illumination on the reticle, GPOBright Lens Coating for 99.7% light transmission, PASSIONtrac turrets allow it to return to zero immediately

The GPO Spectra 6x 2.5-9×44 is the perfect LPVO if you want to shoot more in the mid-range rather than up close. That is why it starts at 1.5x instead of 1x and goes up to 9x zoom.

Light transmission is the best feature of this scope, with GPOBright lens coatings to give it an insane 99.7% rating. That, coupled with the 44mm objective lens diameter, means almost no light will be wasted.

Other than its great optical performance, the GPO Spectra 6x also offers daytime illumination on its reticle. The second focal plane reticle itself is also a joy to use, not being too busy but still having hash marks for ballistics drop.

What Are Key Factors to Consider When Buying LPVO Scopes?

Some key factors you need to consider include how you will use it, how much zoom you need, battery life, the type of reticle, focal plane, eye relief, optic quality, ease of adjustment, and more.

Purpose and Shooting Style

The first factor to consider when choosing is how you will be using the LPVO.

If you are going hunting with it, you will need a reticle that is easy to see or one with hash marks if you are doing midrange plinking.

Magnification Range

How far your scope zooms in and out is also important since LPVO magnification can change the field of view, how expensive, and how heavy your scope will be.

For example, 1-6x scopes are usually not as heavy as 1.5-9x scopes.

Battery Life and Power Source

Having a long battery life is important, especially if you need the reticle to be lit up in low light for better target acquisition.

While plenty of models use some type of illumination, some models need batteries, while others do not.

Reticle Type

Some reticles are simpler and do not have hash marks, which are ideal for hunting.

However, other BDC reticles are more complicated and are used more for pure accuracy.

Focal Plane (FFP or SFP)

FFP scopes retain the same reticle size at all zoom levels, which makes them more consistent and better for accuracy.

However, SFP scopes make it easier to see each hash mark at a low zoom level, which is better for aiming speed.

It is a trade-off that you will need to think about before picking up a scope. This is because it completely changes the behavior and look of the scope as you zoom in and out.

Optical Performance and Clarity

Optical performance is one of the most important factors when choosing an LVPO because it can directly affect your aiming accuracy.

Clear glass helps you stay on target and see them much clearer and quicker.

Sometimes, you will have to pick between amazing optic performance and price. It is up to you to balance the value and price with the kind of performance you require.

Eye Relief

The eye box or eye relief is how far your eye needs to be to the scope to see clearly through it.

Generally, longer eye relief is better, especially for higher recoil weapons, because it prevents you from getting a “scope eye.”

Getting hit in the face and a black eye from your scope due to recoil is not fun.

However, some scopes for lower recoil rifles do better with short eye relief because it helps you get a good cheek weld on the stock, stabilizing your aim.

Adjustments (Turrets) for Windage and Elevation

Getting convenient and precise windage and elevation adjustments is useful in getting on target much faster.

However, you should consider getting low-profile capped turrets to reduce the chances of accidentally adjusting the dial in between shots.

There are also zero-stop turrets that allow you to return to the default setting with a flick of the wrist, which is very convenient and much quicker than manually turning the dial to recalibrate every shot.

Tube Diameter

The tube diameter on LPVOs is typically 30mm, and mounts for scopes generally support that size.

If you are getting a non-conventional size (like 34mm), make sure to buy mounts that support it.

Illumination

Having your reticle illuminated allows you to shoot well in low-light conditions.

Some brighter reticles can even be seen during the day, which makes it even easier to aim with, like the dot reticle on a red dot optic.

Durability and Weather Resistance

While you will not be dunking your optics in water and mud, it is better to be on the safe side.

Many optics offer waterproofing, fogproofing, and shockproofing for added peace of mind, but at an additional cost.

If you shoot primarily in the great outdoors, the cost will well be worth it.

Weight and Size

Weight and size are important considerations if you are doing a lot of walking with your rifle and scope.

You do not want to be lugging around a heavy optic everywhere you operate.

Budget and Price Range

AR optics can get pretty expensive fast, so setting a hard ceiling to your budget is important so you do not break the bank.

Pick an optic that offers the best value for money at your final price point.

Warranty and Customer Support

While most companies offer “lifetime warranties,” check their limitations and disclaimers.

Some exceptions for warranty coverage include being a secondhand buyer, modifying the scope, or not having the original receipt.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

You may have more related questions after learning more about the best LPVO scopes. I have answered the most commonly asked questions about them below.

What Is LPVO?

A Low Power Variable Optic is any rifle scope with a lower power magnification range, starting from 1x magnification and usually going 6-8x. However, it can be as short as 1-4x or as far as 1-10x zoom.

How to Zero LPVO Scopes?

To zero an LPVO, simply choose a zoom level and a fixed distance to zero at and then fire a handful of test shots at a target. Based on the results, adjust your scope and try again until you are satisfied that your point of aim matches your point of impact.

How to Mount LPVO on AR-15?

To mount an LPVO on an AR-15, you must use a scope mount compatible with your scope’s tube diameter. Some scopes come with one in the box, but you can easily buy one online. This can then be attached to the rails on your rifle.

Final Thoughts on the Best LPVO & 1-6x Scopes

Picking an LPVO can be tricky because of the different features and zoom levels that each one offers. Always choose an optic based on your shooting needs and personal preferences.

Prioritize the quality of the optical glass, overall build, and zoom levels as the main features to look out for, and consider everything else as nice-to-haves.

My recommendation for the best overall LPVO for people is the Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 1-8×24. The Strike Eagle is the best overall scope due to its performance and value for money.

Now that you know what to look for, you are ready to find the best LVPO for your shooting adventures!