Are you looking around for the best low power variable scope in 2023? With so many low power variable scopes on the market at different price ranges, it’s really difficult to choose the best low power variable scope to buy.
To solve this issue, we have spent a lot of time reviewing different low power scopes from various brands and narrowed the list down to the 5 best budget LPVO in 2023.
5 Best Low Power Variable Optics [LPVO] in 2023
| Brand | Power | Reticle | Illuminated | Illumination Levels | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bushnell | 1-4x | BTR-1 | Yes | 11 | |
| Primary Arms | 1-4x | Duplex | Yes | 12 | |
| Vortex Optics | 1-4×24 | V Brite MOA | Yes | 11 | |
| Nikon | 1.5-4.5x | BDC 600 | Non | N/A | |
| Leupold | 1.5-4x | Duplex reticle | Non | N/A |
Bushnell 1-4x Low Power Variable Optic [Best FFP LPVO]
Technical Specifications:
- Magnification Power: Variable power of 1-4x.
- Objective Lens: 24mm Diameter.
- Color: Comes in Black Color.
- Reticle: Illuminated BTR reticle.
- Focal Plane: First Focal Plane Reticle.
- Illumination Levels: 11 brightness intensity levels.
- Tube Dia: 30mm Main tube.
- Length: 9.4 inches.
- Weight: 18 ounces.
- Parallax Adjustment: Fixed at 100 yards distance.
- Field of View (1x): 112 feet at 100 yards.
- Field of View (4x): 27 feet at 100 yards.
- Windage Adjustment: 40.7 MIL.
- Elevation Adjustment: 34.9 MIL.
- Eye Relief: 3.5 Inches.
- Exit Pupil: 13.1mm.
- Construction Material: High-Durability Aluminum alloy.
- Finish: Matte Black.
- Adjustment Type: Mil Rad.
- Adjustment Click Value: 0.1 Mil Rad per Click.
- Travel Per Rotation: 6 Mil.
- Warranty: Ironclad Lifetime Warranty.
This Bushnell Low power variable Optic is equipped with a BTR-1 illuminated reticle that stays in the first focal plane to deliver maximum accuracy in every tactical shooting scenario.
There are 11 illumination levels to offer outstanding low light performance. It provides you a series of aiming points that allow expanding effective range for different types of ammunition.
Product Description:
The Bushnell 1-4×24 first focal plane scope is our first pick for the list of best low power variable scopes.
It comes in a stylish design, constructed from the finest materials, and assembled by highly skilled craftsmen to ensure an unfailing performance in the field even under the most demanding conditions.
One of the most impressive features of this best low power variable scope is its Throw down PCL (Power Change Lever) which makes magnification changes quick and easy.
For more rapid magnification change, you can replace the short PCL with the longer PCL which is included in the package.
This best low power variable scope carries a fast-focus eyepiece and fully multi-coated optics to deliver the performance that serious hunters and shooters demand.
Its multi-level illumination makes it an ideal candidate for low light conditions. The Bushnell 1-4×24 scope is waterproof, fog-proof, rustproof, and virtually scratchproof.
- Bushnell low power variable scope.
- CR2032 Battery.
- Lens Covers.
- PCL Throwdown Lever.
- Limited Lifetime Warranty.
- Allen Wrench.
- Sticker.
- Manual.
- Lens Cleaning Cloth.
Pros and Cons of Bushnell low power 1-4x illuminated scope
- PCL Throwdown Lever allows quick power changes.
- Multipurpose and versatile scope at an affordable price.
- The First Focal Plane illuminated reticle offers max accuracy.
- Ultra-compact low power variable scope.
- Works best for close to medium ranges.
- Scope rings are not in the box.
- It needs extra time for adjustments because of the precise 0.1 Mil click value.
Primary Arms 1-4x Scope [Best Low Power Variable Optic]
Technical Specifications:
- Type: Low Power Variable Optic.
- Magnification Power: Power is from 1x to 4x.
- Objective Lens Dia: 24mm.
- Tube Diameter: 30mm.
- Color: Black.
- Eye Relief (Low): 3.5 Inches.
- Eye Relief (High): 3.8 Inches.
- Weight: Weighs 16.7 Oz.
- Length: 11.75 Inches.
- Reticle: Duplex reticle.
- Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane.
- Illumination: Yes.
- Illumination Levels: 12 Brightness Settings.
- Battery Type: 3V CR2032 Lithium Coin.
- Waterproof: Yes.
- Fog Proof: Yes.
- Night Vision: Not Compatible.
- Optics: Fully multi-coated lenses.
- Adjustment Type: MOA.
- Click Value: ½ MOA per Click.
- Field of View (1x): 90 feet at 100 yards.
- Field of View (4x): 23 feet at 100 yards.
- Finish: Matte.
- Warranty: 1 Year Warranty.
This low power variable optic carries a Duplex reticle that is ideal for hunting or plinking. It is placed in the rear focal plane to maintain the same size appearance across all the magnification ranges.
Its 12 brightness levels allow you to shoot or hunt from dawn till dusk. The brightness can be adjusted by the side-mounted knob. You will find this duplex center dot reticle to be quick and easy to use.
Product Description:
If you are looking for something that has been made very well and at a budget-friendly price range then Primary Arms 1-4x scope for AR15 is ideal for you.
This best low power variable optic delivers at its best compared to the other overpriced low power scopes available on today’s market.
It’s a great shooting scope for close range, as well as for medium ranges, which makes this low power scope very versatile.
Its 4x magnification power allows you to see the target very clearly at close to medium ranges. The glass of this best low power variable scope is fully multi-coated and really clear.
The durable construction of the Primary Arms 1-4x scope for AR15 allows you to trust it even in the most demanding conditions.
This extremely durable and rugged targeting tool offers uncompromising performance in the field. Nitrogen purging and O ring seals help to stand up to any cold or wet condition.
- Primary Arms 1-4×24 Low Power variable Optic.
- Allen Key.
- Lens Cleaning Cloth.
- Lens Caps.
- Instructions.
- 3V CR2032 Lithium Coin Battery.
Pros and Cons of Primary Arms 1-4×24 (Best Low Power Variable Optic)
- Illuminated Center Dot Duplex reticle.
- Best low power variable scope at a budget-friendly price Range.
- Comes with a Spare battery holder.
- Excellent Customer Service and support.
- Primary Arms is known for its high-quality products.
- Ideal for Short to Medium range shooting and plinking.
- A bit longer scope.
- Illuminated reticles cannot be seen in the bright daylight.
- They offer only a one-year warranty.
Vortex Optics Crossfire II [Best low power variable scope]: Editor’s Choice
Technical Specifications:
- Power: 1x to 4x.
- Objective Lens: 24mm Dia
- Field of View (1x): 96.1 feet @ 100 yards.
- Field of View (4x): 24.1 feet @ 100 yards.
- Tube Diameter: Main Tube is 30mm wide.
- Color: Black.
- Lens Material: Glass.
- Exit Pupil: Ranges from 6mm to 24mm.
- Adjustment Type: MOA.
- Adjustment Graduation: ½ MOA per click.
- Max Elevation Adjustment: 100 MOA.
- Max Windage Adjustment: 100 MOA.
- Reticle: V Brite MOA reticle.
- Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane.
- Illumination: Yes.
- Eye Relief: 4 Inches.
- Parallax: 100 Yards.
- Focus Range: From 100 Yards to Infinity.
- Turret Style: Capped Turrets.
- Length: 9.8 Inches.
- Weight: 14.8 Ounces.
- Waterproof: Yes.
- Shockproof: Yes.
- Fog Proof: Yes.
- Coatings: Fully Multi-Coated.
- Finish: Anodized Matte Black Finish.
- Warranty: VIP Lifetime Warranty.
The V brite MOA reticle uses a V plex pattern. This reticle is positioned in the second focal plane so, it does not change the size with magnification changes.
It requires a CR2032 battery to illuminate the center dot of the reticle which is included in the package. This V brite illuminated reticle works great for hunters and shooters from dawn till dusk.
Product Description:
The Vortex Optics Crossfire II 1-4×24 is the Editor’s Choice among these 5 best low power variable scopes available on today’s market. Because this mid-priced scope is loaded with an array of outstanding features and offers incredible performance.
The Single-Piece housing of this best low power variable scope not only improves the accuracy and visual performance but also ensures strength.
Vortex Optics features premium quality lenses with multiple anti-reflective coatings for increased light transmission to provide outstanding image clarity at all magnification ranges.
Nitrogen Purging saves the scope from internal fogging and the O-ring seal makes it Waterproof. Moreover, this scope is backed by the Vortex Optics Fully transferable VIP full Lifetime warranty.
Another thing that Vortex Optics added to make the Crossfire II 1-4×24 great is its generous eye relief and fast focus eyepiece which allows you to quickly get a sight picture to place your bullets precisely.
This low power variable optic comes with a cantilever mount so, you don’t need to buy it separately.
- Crossfire II 1-4×24 Low power scope.
- Removable Lens Caps.
- Lens Cleaning Cloth.
- Battery.
- 2 Inches Offset Mount.
- Manual.
Pros and Cons of Vortex Optics Crossfire II 1-4×24 (Best low power variable scope)
- Vortex Optics always stands behind its products.
- V-Brite Illuminated MOA Reticle for low light performance.
- 2 Inches offset cantilever mount is included in the package.
- Fully transferable Vortex VIP Lifetime Warranty.
- Single-Piece Tube for improved accuracy and maximum performance.
- Clear and crisp glass provides unmatchable clarity of the target.
- Some users say that It has a mild fish-eye effect.
Nikon P-Tactical 1.5-4.5x [Best LPVO For the Money]
Technical Specifications:
- Power: Ranges from 1.5x to 4.5x.
- Objective Dia: 20mm.
- Color: Black.
- Main Tube: One Inch dia.
- Weight: 14.8 ounces.
- Length: 10.2 Inches.
- Eye Relief: 3.5 Inches.
- Reticle: BDC 600 Reticle.
- Focal Plane: Second/ Rear Focal Plane.
- Adjustment Type: MOA (Minute of Angle).
- Adjustment Click Value: 0.25 MOA per Click.
- Exit Pupil (1.5x): 13.3mm.
- Exit Pupil (4.5x): 4.4mm.
- Waterproof: O-ring sealed.
- Fog Proof: Nitrogen Purged.
- Parallax: 100 Yards.
- Finish: Matte Black.
- Shock Proof: Yes.
- Warranty: Lifetime Repair/ Replacement Warranty.
This best LPVO for the money uses Nikon’s BDC 600 Reticle which is made specifically for the .223 Rem 5.56 NATO round. It provides you with open circle aiming points to enhance accuracy that ranges from 100 yards to 600 yards.
That’s why it is called BDC 600 reticle. This reticle can be used with the Spot On Ballistic Match Technology by Nikon for exact holdover points. The only negative thing that I could say, is that the reticle is non-illuminated.
Product Description:
Our next pick for the list of best low power variable scopes is from Nikon’s family. They have made a name for tactical-style scopes on the market. The P-Tactical 1.5-4.5×20 scope is a great example of their quality.
This best low power variable scope for the money by Nikon provides you with the features that you need to enhance your shooting experience.
The first thing that stands out in this scope is its fully multi-coated optical system that is packed into a cast aluminum housing to provide superior light transmission even in low light conditions.
They use lead and arsenic-free glass for clearer and well-detailed images of the target.
This best low power variable rifle scope possesses Spring-loaded instant zero-reset Windage and elevation turrets that are engraved for quick, smooth, and repeatable adjustments.
For quick target acquisition, It features a fast-focus eyepiece having a smooth aluminum ring with an eye guard. This scope by Nikon also has the ability to withstand heavy recoils, thanks to its shockproof design.
- Nikon P-Tactical 1.5-4.5x scope.
- Warranty Card.
- Instruction Manual.
- Reticle Guide.
- Lens Caps.
- Lens Cleaning Cloth.
Pros and Cons of Nikon P-Tactical 1.5-4.5x Low power variable Scope
- Lead and arsenic-free, high-quality glass.
- Exposed and engraved Spring-loaded Target Turrets.
- BDC 600 reticle is compatible with Spot On Technology.
- Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof construction.
- Lifetime repair or replacement Warranty.
- BDC 600 reticle is non-illuminated.
- The objective lens is small compared to other scopes on the list.
Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4x [Best LPVO Under 500]
Technical Specifications:
- Magnification: This best LPVO under 500 ranges from 1.5x to 4x.
- Obj Lens Dia: The diameter of the Objective lens is 20mm.
- Color: Comes in Black color only.
- Reticle: Features Duplex reticle.
- Reticle Focal Plane: The reticle is positioned in the rear focal plane.
- Illumination: It is a non-illuminated reticle.
- Weight: Weight is 9.6 ounces.
- Length: The length is 9.35 Inches.
- Height: 20mm High.
- Eye Relief (Low): 4.17 inches.
- Eye Relief (High): 3.74 Inches.
- Elevation Adjustment Range: 125 MOA.
- Windage Adjustment Range: 125 MOA.
- Per Click Value: ¼ MOA per click adjustment graduation.
- Exit Pupil: 5mm.
- Lens Material: Glass.
- Housing Material: 6061-T6 Aircraft-grade Aluminum.
- Field of View (1.5x): 74.2 feet at 100 yards.
- Field of View (4x): 29.4 feet at 100 yards.
- Tube Diameter: One Inch.
- Coatings: Twilight Light Management System.
- Parallax: Fixed.
- Fog Proof: Yes.
- Water Resistance: 100% Waterproof.
- Finish: Matte finish.
- Made In: Designed and Manufactured in the US.
- Warranty: Leupold Full Lifetime Guarantee.
The Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4×20 carries a nonilluminated duplex reticle. This Duplex reticle was invented by Leupold in 1962. Now, It has become one of the most popular reticles in the world.
With its heavy posts and thinner center, it works great for quick target acquisition. This duplex reticle is placed in the rear focal plane that remains the same at all magnification ranges.
Product Description:
This Leupold scope features an amazing Twilight Light Management System that eliminates glare producing stray light to provide a hell of a view of the target.
Another wonderful attribute of this best low power variable scope under 500 is its scratch-resistant lenses. The lenses are treated with the Military Standard scratch-resistant coatings for added protection.
The unit is constructed from the 6061-T6 aircraft quality aluminum that can withstand the abuse of rigorous field use. Additionally, it has passed all the tests on the Punisher to prove the shock proofness.
Despite being so lightweight, It provides you unrivaled durability and uncompromising performance every time.
The Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4×20 is designed and manufactured in the United States of America. So, you don’t need to worry about the quality of the scope.
Some of its other useful features include a 3:1 zoom ratio system, a power selector for quick magnification changes, and ¼ MOA finger reachable windage and elevation adjustments.
- Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4×20 scope.
- User Manual.
- Leupold Sticker.
- Lens Cleaning Cloth.
Pros and Cons of Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4x low power variable rifle scope
- It has passed all the punisher tests to be shockproof.
- Ultra-lightweight but Rugged and reliable Construction.
- Twilight Light Management System for premium lens clarity.
- The exterior lens is treated with a scratch-resistant coating.
- Designed and manufactured in the United States.
- Lens Protective covers do not come with the scope.
- Non-illuminated reticle.
Conclusion:
We have included budget-friendly and best low power variable scopes on our list and we hope that after reading this article, now you can choose the best one from this list.
| Best Low Power Variable Scope In 2023 | Best For |
| Bushnell Optics BTR 1 | Best FFP LPVO |
| Primary Arms Classic Series 1-4×24 | Budget Friendly |
| Vortex Optics Crossfire II | Overall Best [Editor’s Choice] |
| Nikon P-Tactical 1.5-4.5x | Best For Shooting |
| Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4x | Best for the Money |