If you're in the market for a versatile optic that gives you a bit of everything, LPVOs are the way to go. An LPVO is your best shot at getting the best of both worlds: fast performance at 1x magnification and the ability to zoom in when you need it. 

But one thing to keep in mind when buying an LPVO is that there are unique benefits and trade-offs involved, no matter which option you go for. 

LPVOs come in different magnification ranges, the major ones being 1-6x, 1-8x, and 1-10x, and though they are all “low power variable optic” scopes, these usually appeal to different kinds of shooters with varying needs.

So, which LPVO is best for you? And how do you decide between a 1- 6x, 1- 8x, and 1- 10x?

This guide contains insight from years of interacting with customers, making and selling LPVOs, and it is designed to help you confidently pick the one that’s right for your rifle, your environment, and your shooting goals.

How Do You Choose the Right LPVO?

Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide based on your needs:

1. Buying a 1- 6x LPVO: The Fast and Simple All-Rounder

If you mostly shoot under 300 yards and want an optic that is lightweight, fast, and user-friendly, a 1- 6x LPVO might be exactly what you need.

 At 1x, you can aim quickly, with both eyes open (as you would a red dot), but you also get enough magnification at 6x to comfortably hit targets at medium range. 

1- 6x LPVOs are easy to master (in case you are new to LPVOs), and they are excellent for an AR-15 setup.

Consider 1- 6x LPVO if you are:

• A casual shooter and/or a beginner
• Mainly interested in home defence
• Participating in a 3-Gun competition, or just an enthusiast
• An AR-15 owner who wants simplicity and versatility

Buying a 1- 6x LPVO: Features to Look For:

• True 1x magnification (not 1.1x or 1.2x—those can mess with speed)
• Bright illuminated reticle for rapid dot-style aiming
• Generous eye relief and eye box
• Durable construction for recoil and field use

Recommended 1- 6x LPVO

• Magnification: 1-6x
• Reticle: Illuminated
• Eye Relief:
• Build Quality: 7075 aluminum.

2. Buying a 1- 8x LPVO: The Tactical Sweet Spot

A 1-8x LPVO hits the sweet spot between close-in speed and long-range clarity. It is designed for a shooter who wants a little more range than 1- 6x without giving up CQB ability.

The 1-8x gives you significantly better target identification and precision compared to a 1-6x, especially past 300 yards, while still retaining fast handling at 1x.

 This is the LPVO you want if you operate in environments where threats or game can appear both near and far.

Consider a 1-8x LPVO if:

• You are in law enforcement (i.e, a patrol rifle user)
• A tactical shooter and/or  competitor
• A hunter, especially in varied terrain

And yes, LPVOs can be used for hunting, although they are primarily designed for tactical use. A 1-8x LPVO may not be an official hunting scope, but it has enough range for a decent showing.

Tips for Buying a 1- 8x LPVO

Here are four key features to check when buying a 1- 8x LPVO:

• First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle- if you want accurate holdovers at all zoom levels
• High glass clarity—important for spotting details at 8x
• Daylight-bright reticle illumination
• Throw lever for quick magnification changes on the fly

Recommended 1-8x LPVO

• Reticle: FFP
• Glass Clarity: German Schott ED Glass, multi-coated lenses.
• Illumination: Daylight bright-5 levels
• Throw lever: Available

3. Buying a 1- 10x LPVO: The Maximum Versatility Option

If you want the most powerful LPVO out there, a 1- 10x gives you the closest thing to a hybrid between a red dot and a long-range scope.  Long-range identification and holdovers up to 800 yards, and it eliminates the need for two scopes.

A 1-10x scope is built for maximum versatility, for a shooter who wants everything an LPVO can provide, from rapid close-range target engagement to fine shot placement at longer distances. 

Consider a 1-10x LPVO scope if:

• Precision shooters
• Designated Marksman Rifle (DMR) users
• Tactical professionals in unpredictable terrain
• Long-range hunters or shooters working out to 800 yards

Tips For Buying a 1- 10x LPVO

• Look for top-tier glass, critical at 8- 10x for spotting and clarity
• Get an FFP reticle with useful holdovers
• Make sure the turrets are tactile, with locking or zero-reset features
• Ensure it is rugged and built for reliability under stress

Recommended 1-10x LPVO

• Glass quality: German Schott Glass, multi-coated lenses
• Reticle: FFP
• Turrets: Tactile, with zero stop 
• Build quality: 7075 Aircraft-grade aluminum

Final Thoughts

An LPVO can be one of the best upgrades you make to your rifle, especially if you shoot in varied environments or want to stretch your rifle’s capabilities without switching optics. Whether you’re a weekend range shooter, home defender, or competitive marksman, there’s an LPVO for you.

• Go 1- 6x if you want fast and light, and mostly shoot inside 300 yards.
• Go 1-8x if you want better mid-range control without losing 1x speed.
• Go 1- 10x if you demand maximum performance from CQB to long-range precision.

Explore the best uses for an LPVO optic, and refer to this scope magnification chart to understand your magnification range.