When you have an incredible optic like a Low Powered Variable Optic (LPVO), it is always worth it to spend some time learning how to make the most out of it. 

A modern LPVO offers so much more than you probably can imagine. First, it is the perfect all-in-one optic, and it comes in handy in almost any shooting scenario. However, even if you intend to use it for more specialized shooting applications like CQB or 3-gun competitions, there is still so much you can accomplish.

These tips will cover basic skills like setting up your LPVO the proper way, adjusting your scope, and also some techniques you must master if you like to make the most of your optic.

1. Learn How to Choose the right mounting position.

A lot of your success in using an LPVO depends on how good the mounting system is. A good mounting system is not only solid, sturdy, and stable but also efficient. 

Efficient in the sense that it allows you to attain maximum accuracy with the least strain on your eyes, head, or arms. 

When your LPVO is not properly mounted, it is basically impossible to be accurate when you place your shots. You might also have problems like:

• The scope might be misaligned
• The eye relief might be improper 

So, how do you ensure your LPVO is properly mounted? Follow these tips:

i. Use a Cantilever Mount.

If you have an AR-style rifle like the majority of American shooters do, use a cantilever mount. A cantilever mount works because:

• It pushes the optic forward, giving you extra space to find the proper eye relief.
• It also leaves room for a comfortable cheek weld, which in turn improves accuracy and consistency.

ii. Level Your Reticle

If your reticle is canted, you will definitely have a frustrating day, especially if you are using holdovers at longer distances.

So, before tightening the scope rings, take time to ensure the reticle is perfectly level. Use a bubble level or a scope leveling tool to level your reticle properly. These should come in the package when you buy your LPVO.

2. Find the Perfect Eye Relief

Keep Adjust your scope position forward or backward until you find the perfect eye relief. Eye relief is about finding the perfect balance between the comfort and safety of your eyes and visibility through the scope.

• Typically, LPVOs have a specific eye relief between 3-4 inches.

But, you are free to adjust until you feel that your head is in a position where your eyes are safe, you can see the image clearly through the scope, and you can hold the position for a long time as you shoot. 

3. Master the Magnification Ring

The key advantage of using any LPVO is that you get variable magnification. Now, variable magnification is only an amazing advantage if you know how to make the most of it.

The power ring (some people call it the magnification adjustment) is the most important feature of your LPVO. Being able to adjust it quickly and effectively to switch between 1x and higher magnification will help you be quick and efficient in different shooting scenarios where using an LPVO really makes a difference.

i. Use a Throw Lever

A throw lever (also known as a cat tail) is a small attachment that comes with your scope. Its role is to make magnification faster and easier, especially when you are wearing gloves.

ii. Train for Speed

Practice switching between 1x and max magnification quickly. Practice makes perfect, and the more you do it, the quicker you get. Do it until it becomes basically an instinct.

Remember, there are many self-defense and competition scenarios where being able to adjust magnification rapidly can mean the difference between hitting and missing a shot.

4. Understand Your Reticle and Holdovers

Reticles all perform the same role, but they are not the same. The more familiar you get with the kind of reticle your LPVO comes with, the more you are able to maximize your accuracy. Most reticles come with BDC reticles or MOA reticles.

• BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticles come with pre-calculated holdovers for different distances. They are great because they allow you to make quick adjustments without necessarily dialing the turrets.

• If you use an MRAD or MOA reticle, you will be required to make the adjustments manually. You must, therefore, master the subtensions and learn what turrets to turn and in what direction.

The advantage of MOA reticles is that they offer greater precision for long-range shootings. When you master the adjustments, there is not limit on how accurate you can get.

i. Practicing Holdovers

If your LPVO features holdover marks, take time to practice at different distances so you can understand how they correlate with your specific rifle and ammunition.

A BDC reticle, for example, may be calibrated for a specific caliber and bullet weight, so confirm how it performs with your loadout.

5. Optimize Your Eye Box for Fast Target Acquisition

First things first, the eye box is that usable space behind the scope where you can position your eye and still be able to get a clear sight picture. 

Typically, with an LPVO, the eye box space narrows down as you increase magnification. So, you are going to have to keep moving your head and readjusting your position.

Optimizing your eye box means you train your muscle memory so that you can, in critical moments, consistently align your eye with the scope and save the precious time you would have had to spend adjusting to a new magnification level.

Here’s how to optimize your eye box:

At 1x Magnification:

• Keep both eyes open for fast target transitions.
• Maintain proper head positioning to avoid scope shadow.

At Higher Magnifications

• The eye box becomes more restrictive, so focus on ensuring your head is properly aligned behind the optic.
• Avoid rifle canting, which can cause misalignment with your reticle holdovers.

6. Adjust the Illumination for Different Lighting Conditions

Modern LPVOs feature illuminated reticles, meaning they help enhance your visibility in different lighting conditions. However, that is not that:

• Illumination is not necessary in every scenario.
• Some scenarios require more illumination than others.
• In some scenarios, improper illumination can even hinder your performance.

Illuminated reticles offer different levels of brightness (some LPVOs offer as many as five levels), so you can choose the level of illumination that best matches your shooting scenario.

Follow these tips to adjust your illumination for different lighting conditions.

i. In Bright Daylight:

• Increase illumination so that the reticle is visible against the bright background.
• Check if your LPVO has daylight-bright settings.

ii. In Low Light Conditions

Reduce the illumination so you can get a clear and crisp aiming point. In low light, an overly bright reticle causes washout and glare, which is more harmful than helpful.

If your LPVO lacks an illumination feature, practice using the reticle in different lighting conditions to get accustomed to its visibility.

7. Zero Your LPVO Properly

Of course, you can always head out to the nearby shooting range and have your LPVO zeroed for you. However, knowing how to zero your optic by yourself is always an essential skill to have.

The first step is to choose your zero distance. Here are some tips for choosing your Zero distance:

• If you use an AR-15, which offers a flat trajectory with minimal deviation between close and mid-range shots, the best zero distance is 50/200 yards.
• If you are aiming for consistency at longer distances, the best zero distance is 100 Yards.

More Zeroing Tips

• Use a stable shooting position (such as a bench rest) for consistency.
• Fire three-round groups and adjust your scope based on the center of impact.
• Confirm your zero at various distances to understand bullet drops and holdovers.

7. Train for Rapid Target Engagement

LPVOs shine when you can seamlessly transition between close-range and long-range targets. Again, it all comes down to muscle memory. To develop this skill:

• Practice drills that involve switching between magnifications (e.g., engaging a target at 15 yards at 1x, then transitioning to a 200-yard target at 6x or 8x).
• Work on proper cheek weld and stance to maintain consistency when acquiring your sight picture.
• Engage moving targets to test your ability to track and adjust your aim while changing magnification.

With repetitive training, making adjustments will become almost second nature in real-world scenarios.

8. Maintain and Protect Your LPVO

Like any optic, an LPVO requires regular maintenance to keep it in peak condition. In fact, LPVOs, because of their complex structure and additional components, require more maintenance than many other kinds of scopes. 

To maintain your LPVO, you must, amongst other things, follow these tips:

• Always keep the lens caps on to protect the glass from scratches and dirt.
• Clean lenses properly. Use a microfiber cloth and lens cleaner to remove dust and smudges. Do not use any rough materials that might scratch the coating.
• Check the mounting screws over time to maintain your zero. Screws tend to loosen over time with recoil and handling.

Get the Right Optic

Here’s a bonus tip for you: get the right optic. The right optic is not necessarily the most expensive one. There are several brands out there that will give you a good price for your money. 

When buying an optic, determine what your budget range is, then find the scope within that range that offers the most advanced features. Check out a brand like Gunnr

Gunnr Optics: Good Quality LPVOs

Gunnr LPVO scopes hit the ground running last year, and the brand has not received glowing reviews from reviewers and experts alike. 
Our brand is focused on providing quality for money. Gunnr’s ODIN offers the ideal magnification range for CQB and all the features and specifications to enable you to be efficient in every possible magnification range.

• You get true 1x magnification with an illuminated reticle.
  
• The lenses are made of German Schott ED glass, which gives clear image quality, even in low light, with no chromatic aberration.
  
• The exterior of each optic is made of 7075 aluminum alloy, which is durable and can withstand harsh hunting conditions.
  
• They are all tested to withstand 1,000 impacts at 1,000G and 2,000 live-fire rounds.
  
• They are also waterproof and fogproof. They are built to withstand temperatures from -59°F to 149°F and have an IP67 waterproofing rating.
  
• They come with cantilever mounts, directly compatible with the Picatinny rails. You can use them with no additional adapters.
  

Final Thoughts

Regular training is key—practice adjusting settings, engaging targets at different distances, and transitioning quickly between magnifications. Whether you're using an LPVO for tactical shooting, hunting, or competition, these essential tips will sharpen your skills and improve your overall shooting performance.