Contrary to popular belief, rifle scopes are not only useful for making long-distance shots.
There is actually a type of rifle scope that works great for competition shooting, close-quarter battle, and rapidly transitioning from short to long-range engagements: LVPO.
LPVO stands for Low Power Variable Optic, a type of scope with a magnification range starting at 1x and going up from there. It is best known for its versatility and ability to improve your rapid target acquisition in the field.
Here is everything you need to know about LPVO, including the LPVO meaning and definition, how to use and maintain an LPVO scope, and the future trends in LPVO technology.
Contents
- What Is LPVO?
- How Does LPVO Work?
- How to Use and Maintain LPVO?
- How Did LPVO Start?
- What Is LPVO Good For?
- What Are the Benefits of LPVO?
- LPVO vs. ACOG vs. Red Dot with Magnifier vs. Prism
- What Are Key Factors to Consider When Buying LPVO Scopes?
- Purpose and Shooting Style
- Magnification Range
- Battery Life and Power Source
- Reticle Type
- Focal Plane (FFP or SFP)
- Optical Performance and Clarity
- Eye Relief
- Adjustments (Turrets) for Windage and Elevation
- Tube Diameter
- Illumination
- Durability and Weather Resistance
- Weight and Size for Handling Comfort
- Budget and Price Range
- Warranty and Customer Support
- What Are Future Trends in LPVO Technology?
- Final Thoughts on LPVO
What Is LPVO?
LPVO stands for Low Power Variable Optic. It describes a rifle scope with a magnification that starts at 1x or as close to it as possible.
These types of optics have a distinct look, featuring a larger eyepiece, ocular lens, and narrow objective lens that can help you identify targets with ease, given the lower magnification ranges offered.
Let us discuss what it means to use an LPVO scope and why you need it when shooting.
Magnification and Power Range
LPVOs typically have a magnification range of 1-4x or 1-6x. However, some models can go as high as 1-8x or 1-10x, with this lower range being their main difference from traditional variable scopes.
Their balanced magnification helps you achieve more accurate shots and consistent shooting at various distances.
Now, you might wonder, “How far do you use your LPVO?”
They are usually used for close-up and fast-action shooting. However, they can also shoot between 500 and 800 yards or mid-range engagement distances in the hands of a skilled shooter.
Eye Relief
LPVOs are designed to be the perfect hybrid, an optic somewhere between your red dot sight and a full-blown heavy-duty scope.
Because of the lenses they use and their design, LVPO scopes offer good eye relief, allowing you to keep your eye far enough away from the scope’s rear.
This gives you a wider sight picture and better peripheral awareness, making acquiring your target faster and more intuitive, similar to using a red dot sight.
It also gives you the magnification of a full-blown scope, which makes it stand out against traditional fixed-power models.
Mounts
LPVOs do not typically come with a mounting solution. This lets users choose the right solution for their weapons system and general comfort.
Mounting options are typically sold separately and can be upgraded with several advanced features, such as a Quick Detach (QD) design. If your weapon can handle it, you can have side-mounted optics instead of the typical top-mount design.
How Does LPVO Work?
Low-power variable optics start with a true 1x or no magnification. Then, you can increase it to its highest magnification of 4x to 10x.
While it is common to find LPVOs with ranges 1-8x and 1-10x, many shooters still prefer a maximum magnification of 6x or less because of their use case and context.
The most common reticle designs for these scopes are the bullet drop compensation (BDC) reticle, the Mil-Dot, and different illuminated reticles.
How to Use and Maintain LPVO?
Your LPVO allows you to transition from your short to mid-range shots quickly. This versatility allows them to cover a variety of shooting scenarios.
You can use an LPVO as a red dot substitute when set to 1x, especially with an illuminated reticle. It can help you transition quickly between shots while maintaining a clear sight picture with good eye relief.
However, it will not fully replace your red dots. They can be an alternative if a red dot is not available or if you are more comfortable using an LPVO, but their functionality will still be quite different.
That said, an LVPO is a great replacement for an ACOG-style sight when switched to its mid-range power, like 3x or 4x. It can shoot up to 300 yards while maintaining a wide-field view.
Lastly, making the most of the highest magnification level when working with mid to long ranges is important. You can still make the shots that count with these types of rifle scopes.
It is important to note that while LPVO scopes are mounted and zeroed much like typical scopes, they typically use more batteries, so it is best to have a backup on hand. They also tend to be heavier compared to other scopes.
How Did LPVO Start?
The first LPVOs were created in Germany in 1922 when optician Carl Zeiss produced the “Zielmulti” scope for German rifles.
He designed this for hunters who must easily and quickly transition between targets at different ranges, especially from short to medium or even long distances.
In the 1990s, the US Armed Forces learned that the LPVO was very useful for rapid target acquisition and verification at ranges past 50 yards.
Thus, LVPO scopes are now used in various shooting scenarios, whether for recreational hunting, competitive shooting, or even urban combat operations.
What Is LPVO Good For?
LPVO is best for those who need variable magnification and rapid target acquisition.
This type of scope can be used for numerous scenarios, including 3-gun competitions, hunting in diverse environments, and dynamic shooting.
However, these optics can also have different missions and purposes, especially if your setup is designed for a specific job.
For example, a tactical carbine with a holographic sight or red dot sight is best for closed quarters. Using them for medium to long ranges can be challenging.
On the other hand, rifles with fixed-power or standard variable-power scopes can let you reach targets beyond 300 yards. However, it is quite heavy and can be difficult in tighter situations.
LPVO serves as a happy medium between holographic sights and standard scopes, having a wide-sight picture and eye relief needed for fast-paced situations and variable magnification needed to hit targets farther away.
What Are the Benefits of LPVO?
LPVOs offer numerous benefits, from more precise shooting at long-distance targets to clearer sight pictures at close ranges.
They are highly versatile and can adapt to any situation. LVPOs give you the best of both worlds, allowing you to swap between close-quarters fighting and advanced medium to long-range shots.
This makes them perfect for various shooting conditions, including tactical, competition, and hunting.
They are also highly efficient, with less weight, size, and complexity than a red dot magnifier combo. Unlike other high-power scopes, they provide a faster way of acquiring and engaging targets.
Another factor that sets LVPOs apart is that your reticle can be completely different based on your magnification and focal plane. For example, an FFP scope can provide a reticle with a big red dot at 1x and a massive pyramid of drop and windage points at 8x.
LPVO vs. ACOG vs. Red Dot with Magnifier vs. Prism
Different types of scopes have varying advantages and disadvantages. You must consider several factors to find the right optic for your context.
LPVO | ACOG | Red Dot with Magnifier | Prism Scope | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Ease of Use | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Technology | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐ |
Accuracy and Precision | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐ |
Affordability | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Close-Quarter Battle | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Lightweight | ⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Flexibility | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐ |
Range | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐ |
For starters, an ACOG does not need batteries, magnification adjustment, or diopter, making it more straightforward and intuitive to operate. However, in the LPVO vs. ACOG debate, LPVOs stand out for their technological advancement and precision.
A holographic sight or red dot and magnifier are well-suited for close-quarter battles, but the price can vary depending on the magnifier. Red dots are also lighter and more compact, making them easier to take around, but take note that they become slightly bulkier and heavier due to the magnifier.
Red dots are also not as flexible as an LPVO, especially regarding precision. That said, many shooters still prefer red dot sights or a holo sight compared to iron sights and other options, and they can be an excellent backup for your LPVO.
As for prism scopes, they are known as the lightest, most durable, and affordable choice for optics. They are also non-electronically dependent and can offer the widest field of view.
However, it has an extremely short eye relief compared to LPVO. It is also tricky to use at extended ranges.
Overall, an LPVO is more likely to stand out and let you do it all compared to any other traditional scope. It is versatile and provides the most balanced performance on the market today.
What Are Key Factors to Consider When Buying LPVO Scopes?
LPVOs offer many features that can have each model varying wildly in terms of performance. It can be tricky to find the right one, especially with all the features you need to consider.
These are the different key factors to look into when buying your LPVO.
- Purpose and shooting style
- Magnification range
- Battery life and power source
- Reticle type
- Focal plane
- Optical performance and clarity
- Eye relief
- Adjustments
- Tube diameter
- Illumination
- Durability and weather resistance
- Weight and size
- Budget and price range
- Warranty and customer support
Here’s a deeper look at the importance of these critical factors when purchasing a Low-Powered Variable Optic.
Purpose and Shooting Style
You need to understand your intended use and shooting preferences. This will help you find the best LPVO based on your situation.
Working with optics made for hunting may work differently in a competition or tactical shooting setting.
Check the specifications of each small package to know its features, especially if you are looking for one for a specific mission type.
Learn how each scope can affect your performance and lean towards those that will fit your needs.
Magnification Range
All LPVOs start with 1x as their lowest setting. In this setting, you can expect not to have any magnification at all. You must look into how high its magnification and fixed power can go when choosing an LVPO.
You will need a range that can balance close-quarters versatility while allowing you to work with an extended shooting distance. You should easily be able to switch from close range to longer magnifications.
Not everyone needs a 1-10x magnification, like those on the Vortex Razor and Nightforce ATACR scope lines, especially if you do not do a lot of long-distance shooting in the first place. Many usually settle for 1-6x instead of 1-10x.
It depends on the situations you usually find yourself in when you use these types of magnified optics. The easier it is to adjust from your short-range setup to other setups, the better your optics are.
Battery Life and Power Source
LPVOs come with batteries, which can be one of the most significant limitations of these optical sights.
You should consider the type of battery and expected usage time, especially if you are using LPVOs with reticle illumination.
You should also look into extra batteries and how easy it would be to switch them out while on the field.
These are the typical deal breakers for purchasing LPVOs, especially with their dependence on a power source. However, doing prior research and being prepared is the best way to address battery management.
Reticle Type
When finding the right optic, it is important to consider your reticle design and type. They are another reason LVPO stands out against any other magnified optic on the market.
The higher the magnification of your optic, the more complicated your reticle tends to be, especially when considering windage, BDC, and the like.
You can choose reticle illumination, especially if you want true daylight bright illumination.
You should also look into simple crosshair reticles, especially if you are on a budget or a new hunter.
It is also recommended to consider a BDC reticle to compensate for the drop, especially for particular ranges.
Your reticle options and types can easily change how you aim for your bullseye, and it is best to learn more about them before purchasing your optic.
Focal Plane (FFP or SFP)
You must also choose between the first focal plane (FFP) reticle and the second focal plane (SFP) reticle based on your preference. It can affect the consistency of your reticle size or the sub-tensions at various magnification levels.
The FFP design places your reticle in front of the scope’s erector. This affects their growth and shrinking when adjusting your magnification settings.
LPVOs with an FFP design also come with bullet drop and windage markings that retain their measurements regardless of magnification.
Unlike the FFP reticle, an SFP scope places the reticle behind the scope erector. This retains the reticle size while you adjust your magnification settings. It might cause you to lose a little magnification on the top end of your optic.
When looking into different optics, weighing the differences between the FFP and SFP is crucial.
Optical Performance and Clarity
Any high-quality LPVO should have superior glass quality, coatings, and lens clarity. This will give you a better view of whatever you are aiming at.
For example, specific optics manufacturers, like Primary Arms, feature Japanese glass, providing more clarity when aiming. This is one of the reasons for Primary Arms’ fame in the optics industry.
Look into the options available and what would give you a good view of your target in any condition.
Eye Relief
When looking for a reliable optic, you would want one with good eye relief and a generous eye box. This will help you be more comfortable while on the field.
The eye box is the area behind your optic that lets you see a full-sight picture through your scope. The larger your exit pupil, the more space you have.
Partner your exit pupil and eye box with good eye relief, and you are more likely to be comfortable during long days on the field.
It also helps lessen the risk of getting injured from recoil, which can result in a scope bite.
Adjustments (Turrets) for Windage and Elevation
If you want accurate shots for long-distance shooting or competitions, you would want to look for an optic with reliable, repeatable, and precise turret adjustments.
They can be challenging to control and can stop between clicks. Having them in the wrong setting can affect elevation and windage while shooting.
As long as you have a reliable setup, they should be more manageable when you are on the field.
Tube Diameter
Your tube diameter immediately affects your objective diameter. It can give you a wider field view at each zoom setting.
The usual tube diameter for optics is around 30 mm or 1 inch. This helps ensure they are compatible with your firearm’s mounting systems and accessories.
However, finding the proper mounting options can still be challenging, especially for larger tube diameters. So, it is crucial to find a scope that will fit your setup.
Illumination
LPVOs with illuminated reticles must be assessed regarding their brightness levels, daylight, visibility, and controls for low-light situations.
Your optic should give you a better view of what you are aiming for and improve the image to make shooting easier.
Durability and Weather Resistance
You should look for a scope that can withstand different environments and rugged conditions, regardless of their price point.
They must be reliable enough to withstand moisture and shocks, especially outdoors.
Weight and Size for Handling Comfort
Weight and size can affect your comfort on the field and should be appropriately balanced with your firearm.
LPVOs are usually heftier than other optics, like red dot sights. However, some situations require them, especially if you need to switch from close ranges to longer ones.
Budget and Price Range
A certain price point can affect the caliber of scope you can get.
While there are many budget-friendly options, managing your expectations and requirements according to your budget is essential.
Warranty and Customer Support
Check your optics manufacturers’ warranty and the reliability of their customer support to ensure that you can get help regarding your purchase.
What Are Future Trends in LPVO Technology?
The Low Power Variable Optic technology continues to gain popularity across different skill levels, particularly due to its versatility and reliability.
LVPOs will continue to evolve when it comes to reticle designs, durability, and illumination to fit different situations.
Final Thoughts on LPVO
Now that you know what scopes like the LPVO stand for and how useful they can be on the field or home defense, you may consider adding them to your gear.
They are reliable in different situations, regardless of your skill level, and you can go out with confidence knowing that your LVPO scope will do precisely what you need it to do.