It is no secret that many shooters prefer to pair their AR-15 with an LPVO. At first, the reason might seem quite obvious: it's a scope, and it has higher magnification! That is correct, but a wide range of magnification is not the only reason. An LPVO, paired with an AR-15, offers much more than that. In this article, we will explore this common phenomenon in the shooting world, unravel the reasons behind it, and see how this information can help you become a better shooter. 

THE FIRST REASON IS THE VERSATILITY

LPVOs are unrivaled when it comes to flexibility. In fact, the primary advantage of using an LPVO is that it allows you to quickly switch between low and high magnification, making it the ideal scope for a wide range of shooting situations.

At 1x magnification, your LPVO is practically a red dot sight: it provides a similarly fast and intuitive point of aim with no magnification. Yet, when longer-range precision is needed, you can simply dial up the magnification to 4x, 6x, or even 10x (depending on the model) to allow for accurate shooting at greater distances.

Both AR-15s and LPVOs share this versatility, which makes them perfect for each other. Most shooters simply prefer having one all-in-one solution for their AR-15, which allows them to switch between short—and long-range targets on the fly. 

AN LPVO PROVIDES TRUE 1X CAPABILITY

A lot of optics claim to offer 1x magnification, but not every one of them succeeds in pulling it off flawlessly. A good LPVO, on the other hand, offers a true 1x magnification: there is no distortion or warping of the image. 

This makes shooting with both eyes open much more natural, similar to how you’d use a red dot sight. This advantage mostly comes in handy in close-quarter situations where you need your success or failure could depend on fast target acquisition. 

By combining your AR-15 with an LPVO, you get the best of both worlds: the speed and simplicity of a red dot at 1x and the ability to zoom in for distant shots when needed.

THE COMBINATION ENHANCES PRECISION AT LONGER RANGES

For those who use their AR-15 in competitions, hunting, or tactical situations, an LPVO enables them to improve their precision over a longer range. Generally, a standard AR-15 with a barrel length of 15-20 inches is accurate at hitting targets up to about 600 yards away. Beyond this range, most AR-15s might need a little help.

When engaging targets at medium to long ranges, typically 100-300 yards or beyond, an LPVO’s higher magnification provides a clear advantage over red dots or holographic sights. At 6x, 8x, or even 10x magnification, you can accurately place shots on small or distant targets, something that would be much more difficult with a non-magnified optic. 

This enhanced precision is invaluable, especially for shooters who use their AR-15s for longer-range shooting, where precision matters.

LPVOs ARE DURABLE AND RELIABLE  

Another reason people prefer LPVOs on their AR-15s is that they are ruggedly built and dependable in almost any weather. Most people use their AR-15 for home defense, hunting, or tactical training, all situations that require their gear to be dependable and weather resistant. Not all scopes can bear such conditions. 

An LPVO will provide consistent performance without the need for constant adjustment. If you have an LPVO like the Odin from Gunnr, you can practically shoot anywhere and in any weather. Gunnr’s LPVOs are made of 7075 Aluminum, which is capable of resisting harsh environments and the recoil from repeated shooting. These scopes are waterproof and dustproof and can resist extreme temperatures from below -590F to 1490F.

With an LPVO, you can be assured of consistent performance, and that is why many shooters pair them with their AR-15s. 

THERE IS NO NEED FOR BACKUP MAGNIFIERS

Some shooters prefer another AR-15 setup: pairing a red dot sight with a flip-up magnifier for longer-range shots. This setup is quite effective, but it requires additional hardware to operate successfully. 

In addition to the extra cost of purchasing some of this hardware, adding more components to your setup adds to the weight and bulk of the AR-15. In a shooting scenario where you need to move or adjust quickly, a heavy rifle can be a liability. 

With an LPVO, there is no need for a secondary magnifier: your single optic covers both close-quarters and long-range engagements. You are left with a more streamlined setup that is lighter to carry around without having to sacrifice the versatility of your AR-15.

TRAINING AND SKILL DEVELOPMENT

An LPVO can help shooters improve their overall shooting skills, especially in varied situations. Because it offers both close-range and long-range engagement options, shooters must learn to adapt to different scenarios, enhancing their marksmanship, situational awareness, and decision-making. By practicing with an LPVO on your AR-15, you can become proficient in multiple disciplines of shooting, whether it’s CQB or precision long-range shots.

CONCLUSION

Using an LPVO on your AR-15 rifle offers unmatched versatility, allowing you to seamlessly switch between close-range and long-range shooting with the turn of a dial. Whether you’re a hunter, competitive shooter, or preparing for tactical situations, the LPVO provides a comprehensive solution that enhances your accuracy, speed, and adaptability. The ability to use a single optic for a wide range of distances simplifies your setup and increases your rifle’s effectiveness in various scenarios, making the LPVO a standout choice for AR-15 users.

GETTING A GOOD LPVO

If you are in the market for an LPVO to pair with your AR-15, then you absolutely have to check out Gunnr’s Odin Scopes. The Gunnr Odin  LPVOs offer you the perfect blend of innovation and reliability at a price that won't break the bank. It comes with the superior clarity of German Schott ED Glass, ensuring exceptional edge-to-edge sharpness for every shot. 

The first focal plane (FFP) reticle provides fast, accurate distance estimation at any magnification, adapting seamlessly to changing light conditions with six brightness settings. Constructed from durable 7075 aluminum alloy, this scope is IP67-rated for dust and waterproof performance, guaranteeing dependability in any environment. 

With the Gunnr Odin, you're equipped with a versatile tool designed to enhance your shooting experience and leave you wondering how you ever aimed without it.

Check out the Odin, and subscribe to Gunnr for more useful tips and information, including how to properly zero your LPVO.