When it comes to optics for our firearms, primarily rifles, a lot of shooters are of the mindset that you need lots of magnification for everything that you are doing. They seek out more and more and more zoom in their scopes thinking that if they had a 100x optic it would solve all of their problems. The sheer reality though is that the more magnification you deploy while shooting there are actually going to be more problems that arise: smaller field-of-view, stronger intensity of a mirage on hot days, more difficulty to stay on target, and the list goes on. So, what is the answer? LPVOs are the answer! Low Powered Variable Optics have become increasingly popular for not only modern sporting rifles, but also hunting rifles and shotguns.

There is no set size for an LPVO, but typically any scope that has a variable power that starts on 1x and increases from there would be considered an LPVO. For example, Athlon Optics makes an Argos BTR 1-4x24mm and Vortex Optics has a Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm. Since both start on only 1x magnification and offer increased magnification beyond that you get the best of two different worlds. When utilizing the low end of your given magnification spectrum you can treat the optic like a red dot. You can shoot with both eyes open, have better awareness of your surroundings, and are not forced into a “tunnel vision” mentality. This makes LPVOs suitable for shotgun hunting whitetail deer and for use on carbines.

Then, with the ability to increase magnification sometimes up to 8x or 10x, you have the power available to make impacts on targets out to 300 – 400 yards or whatever distance you personally feel comfortable shooting. These optics are lighter than a full-blown riflescope and have a much smaller dimensional footprint on our firearms as well. Many of them feature lighted reticles so as previously mentioned on 1x you can treat them like a red dot yet simultaneously can crank out some magnification for longer shots.

An issue with stronger optics is that the more magnification you deploy the more your field-of-view shrinks. Yes, with an LPVO maxed out to 8x or 10x your field-of-view does shrink some, but not nearly to the extent a strong riflescope would on 16x or 24x like some people prefer to use. Also, with more intense magnification comes a more intense mirage effect on hot days. So, sometimes staying on the weaker side of magnification can be very beneficial in more ways than one.

 

When it comes to running and gunning while shooting competitions or even hunting, LPVOs are truly all the rage at the moment. We understand that LPVOs might not trip everyone’s trigger, but we wanted to offer a different perspective on optics and why people choose certain ones over others this week. As always, let us know all of your thoughts in the Comments below. We love it when you participate in our articles and keep the conversation going!