When it comes to choosing the best 1 to 8x scopes, shooters want something that performs well at close range but still allows accurate shots at medium distances. A good 1-8x scope combines versatility, clarity and durability in one optic, letting you move fast, track targets efficiently and maintain confidence no matter the situation. Whether you are hunting, competing or training, the right scope can make all the difference in speed and accuracy.
In this guide, we’ll explore the advantages of 1-8x scopes, the features that make them effective, a detailed review of the top seven options and answer some of the most frequently asked questions.
By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of what to look for and which scope might best suit your needs.
Advantages of Using the 1- 8x Scopes
Versatility Across Distances
One of the biggest strengths of a 1-8x scope is its ability to handle both close-range and medium-range shooting. At 1x magnification, you can acquire targets quickly and react to fast-moving situations. When you zoom up to 8x, you can take precise shots at longer distances without changing optics. This flexibility makes 1-8x scopes ideal for tactical use, hunting and training, all while keeping your rifle setup simple.
Accurate Targeting
Scopes with first focal plane (FFP) reticles or well-calibrated reticle systems help shooters maintain accurate hold points at all zoom levels. With an FFP reticle, your aiming references remain true whether you’re at 1x or 8x magnification. This allows you to estimate range, lead moving targets and account for bullet drop, making every shot more predictable and reducing costly guesswork.
Quick Target Acquisition
Clear optics and low magnification let you find and engage targets almost instantly. Red illuminated reticles improve visibility in bright sunlight and low-light conditions, which is especially helpful in dynamic scenarios or when tracking moving targets. Fast acquisition is one of the key advantages that makes 1-8x scopes indispensable for many shooters.
Durable and Reliable Build
High-quality LPVOs (Low Power Variable Optics) are built to last. Most use aircraft-grade aluminum or similarly strong materials and they’re waterproof, fog-proof and shock-proof. This durability ensures the scope survives harsh weather, heavy recoil and rough handling without losing zero, giving shooters confidence that their optic will perform under pressure.
Clear and Bright Image
Premium lenses with coatings enhance brightness, clarity and contrast. This is crucial for identifying small details, tracking targets, and maintaining accuracy in changing light. A clear optic reduces eye strain and makes shooting more comfortable, especially during extended sessions in the field or on the range.
Easy Adjustments and User-Friendly Design
Adjustable turrets, throw levers and generous eye relief make these scopes easy to operate. Lockable or resettable turrets help maintain zero and many scopes include smooth, responsive magnification controls. This level of user-friendliness allows shooters of all skill levels to handle the scope confidently in any situation.
Features to Look for in the Best 1- 8x Scopes
First Focal Plane (FFP) Reticle
An FFP reticle scales as you zoom, keeping hold points and ranging marks accurate at any magnification. At 1x, it functions like a red dot for quick shots and at 8x, it provides the detail needed for medium-range precision. FFP scopes are ideal for shooters who want flexibility without sacrificing accuracy.
Magnification Range
The 1-8x magnification range strikes a balance between fast close-range engagement and precise medium-range aiming. It allows shooters to cover most shooting scenarios without needing multiple optics, making it a practical choice for tactical applications, hunting and competitions.
Clear and Bright Glass
The quality of lenses is critical. ED (Extra-low Dispersion) or Schott glass provides sharp, detailed images with accurate colors. Coatings reduce glare and reflections, improving visibility in direct sunlight or low light. High-quality glass helps shooters maintain speed and confidence, even in challenging environments.
Illumination Options
Many 1-8x scopes feature red or dual-color illumination. Adjustable brightness allows you to match the environment, from bright daylight to dim conditions or night vision. LED systems provide consistent reticle visibility, which is especially useful for moving targets or fast-action scenarios.
Durable Build
A rugged body ensures longevity. Aircraft-grade aluminum and shock-resistant materials are common. Waterproof and fog-proof designs allow the scope to endure heavy use and environmental stress. Durability is essential to ensure consistent performance in demanding situations.
Easy Adjustment and Mounting
Smooth, lockable turrets, quick-throw magnification levers and adequate eye relief make operation simple and precise. Standard tube sizes and compatible mounts ensure the scope can be installed easily on most rifles. These features enhance practicality and adaptability for shooters of all experience levels.
Best 1-8x Scopes
1) Primary Arms PLx 1- 8x24mm LPVO
The Primary Arms PLx 1- 8x24mm Compact LPVO is one of the best 1- 8x scopes for shooters who want a high-performance optic in a small package. Made in Japan, this scope combines clear optics with a robust and lightweight design. At just over 16 ounces and 9 inches long, it stays balanced on your rifle without feeling heavy or cumbersome.
The Japanese ED lenses deliver a bright, sharp image with accurate colors. The first focal plane ACSS Griffin MIL M8 reticle provides flexibility at any magnification. At 1x, the horseshoe functions like a red dot for quick close-range shots. At 8x, it expands to help with precise holds, ranging and bullet drop adjustments. This makes the PLx ideal for tactical situations, hunting and training.
Operating the scope is simple and intuitive. The AutoLive illumination preserves battery life by turning the reticle on only when the rifle moves. The throw lever makes changing magnification smooth and fast. Lockable turrets allow shooters to customize adjustments to their needs.
The PLx is also built to withstand harsh conditions. Its 30-millimeter tube is waterproof, fog resistant and shockproof. The hardcoat finish protects the body from scratches and wear. Backed by a lifetime warranty, this scope provides optical quality and durability in one compact package.
Pros
- Excellent Japanese ED glass
- Versatile first focal plane reticle
- Wide field of view
- Lightweight and compact
- Motion activated illumination
- Waterproof, shockproof and fog resistant
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Higher price compared to entry-level scopes
2) Meprolight MVO 1- 8x28mm LPVO
The Meprolight MVO 1- 8x28mm LPVO is a strong contender among the best 1- 8x scopes. Its German Schott glass delivers sharp detail and accurate colors across the full field of view. The larger 34-millimeter tube provides brightness and clarity even in challenging lighting.
This scope moves seamlessly from 1x to 8x magnification, allowing fast engagement at close range and accurate targeting at medium distances. The first focal plane MRAD reticle keeps hold points precise at all zoom levels. Multi-coated lenses reduce glare and maintain a clear image edge to edge.
Illumination options include red and green daylight bright settings, adaptable to different conditions. The turrets are large, easy to grip and lockable. A detachable throw lever helps change magnification quickly without disrupting your aim.
Designed for tough environments, the MVO holds zero in extreme temperatures and rough handling. Its solid build and quality optics make it suitable for hunting, tactical training and professional use.
Pros
- Clear German Schott glass
- Sharp edge-to-edge image
- Red and green illumination
- Strong build for harsh conditions
- Locking turrets and resettable zero
- Oversized controls for gloved use
- Throw lever included
Cons
- Heavier than most LPVO options
- Less budget-friendly
3) SIG SAUER TANGO 1- 8x24mm Scope
The SIG SAUER TANGO MSR 1- 8x24mm scope is designed for shooters seeking reliability and clarity in the best 1- 8x scopes category. It comes with a cantilever mount for easy setup on modern sporting rifles. Its one to eight power range makes it effective for close- to medium-range shooting.
Low dispersion lenses and Spectra coat finish provide a sharp, bright image in various lighting conditions. At one hundred yards, the field of view spans 124 feet at 1x and narrows to 20 feet at 8x. This wide-to-narrow field of view ensures fast target acquisition and precision when engaging at distance.
Adjustments are intuitive with half MOA turrets and a plus or minus 2.5 diopter for reticle sharpening. The eleven brightness levels allow clear aiming in day or low-light conditions. The thread-in throw lever makes zooming smooth without interrupting your shooting flow.
Built to endure tough conditions, the TANGO MSR is waterproof to IPX 7, fogproof and shock resistant. The included lens covers and hardcoat anodized finish provide added protection. SIG SAUER’s Infinite Guarantee ensures long-term confidence in performance.
Pros
- Clean low dispersion glass
- MSR BDC8 reticle with 11 brightness levels
- Wide field of view at close and mid range
- Thread-in throw lever for fast magnification changes
- Waterproof, fogproof and shockproof
- Comes with mount and lens covers
- Backed by Infinite Guarantee
Cons
- Slightly heavier than some compact LPVOs
4) Vortex Strike Eagle 1- 8x24mm LPVO
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1- 8x24mm FFP is a versatile scope in the best 1- 8x scopes lineup. Its first focal plane EBR 8 reticle stays consistent at all magnifications, which helps shooters make fast, reliable decisions. The scope is clear at 1x for quick target engagement and stable at higher powers for medium-range accuracy.
The fully multi-coated glass delivers a crisp, bright sight picture. Red illumination improves visibility in varying lighting conditions. Eye relief of around four inches keeps shooting comfortable and reduces fatigue during extended sessions.
The turrets provide precise quarter MOA adjustments and generous travel for sighting in. The included throw lever allows quick magnification changes, which is essential in dynamic situations. The scope’s rugged construction ensures it can handle heavy use, recoil, shock and fog.
For shooters who want a dependable, durable and flexible optic, the Strike Eagle 1 to 8×24 is a solid choice. It balances optical clarity with practical features for field and range use.
Pros
- First focal plane reticle
- Smooth magnification with throw lever
- Rugged construction
- Wide field of view at low power
Cons
- Parallax fixed at 125 yards
- Longer body than some LPVOs
5) Trijicon VCOG 1- 8x28mm Scope
The Trijicon VCOG 1- 8x28mm scope is a premium choice among the best 1- 8x scopes. Its first focal plane reticle remains accurate at all magnifications, providing simple and reliable hold points. This makes the VCOG suitable for both close- and medium-range engagements.
Its bright LED reticle offers eleven brightness levels, including night vision and extra-bright modes. Eye relief is consistent across zoom levels, allowing shooters to maintain a comfortable position without adjusting their head. The scope uses a long-lasting AA battery for reliable illumination.
The wide 1x view and narrow 8x field help with scanning and precision aiming. The scope is fully waterproof, fogproof and shockproof. Included accessories such as a mount, battery, cleaning tool and warranty card add convenience for the shooter.
Trijicon’s VCOG combines clarity, durability and advanced features for shooters who demand the best performance in any condition.
Pros
- First focal plane reticle
- Compatible with multiple calibers
- Eleven brightness levels including night vision
- Long battery life
- Strong aluminum body
- Waterproof, fogproof and shockproof
- Smooth magnification changes
Cons
- Heavier than many 1- 8x scopes
6) Swampfox Arrowhead 1- 8x24mm LPVO
The Swampfox Arrowhead 1- 8x24mm is a reliable and easy-to-use scope for shooters seeking the best 1- 8x scopes. Its 30-millimeter tube and throw lever make changing magnification fast and intuitive. Two reticle options allow customization for different shooting styles.
Bright, clean optics provide sharp edge-to-edge detail and consistent eye relief. The first focal plane reticle maintains hold points at all zoom levels, making fast target acquisition natural and efficient.
The red illumination offers twelve brightness levels and runs on a common CR2032 battery. Locking turrets help maintain zero, while the scope’s rugged construction ensures it can handle recoil, heavy use and adverse weather conditions. Flip caps and a cleaning cloth help protect the lenses for long-term use.
The Arrowhead is ideal for training, home defense and general tactical use. Its combination of simplicity and performance makes it an excellent choice for shooters who need a dependable LPVO.
Pros
- Bright and clear glass
- Two reticle options
- Locking turrets maintain zero
- Throw lever enables fast magnification changes
- Waterproof, fogproof and shockproof
Cons
- Slightly heavier than some 1 to 8x scopes
7) Primary Arms SLx 1- 8×24 FFP
The Primary Arms SLx 1- 8×24 FFP is a versatile and reliable LPVO in the best 1- 8x scopes category. Its ACSS Raptor reticle features moving target leads and ranging marks, keeping hold points accurate at any magnification.
At 1x, shooters can move quickly and track targets, while 8x magnification allows precise aim at medium distances. Red illumination with eleven brightness settings ensures clarity in varied lighting. The aluminum body provides strength and durability and the mount comes included for easy setup.
The scope remains clear and dependable in many conditions and holds up under rough use. Its balanced design, practical reticle and solid performance make it a top choice for shooters looking for a flexible and straightforward optic.
Pros
- Reticle has moving target leads
- Ranges to 600 yards
- Image stays sharp
- Eleven brightness settings
- Strong aluminum body
- Mount included
Cons
- Illumination may be dim in direct sunlight
You can also look at: 6 Best Zeiss Binoculars
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a 1-8x scope different from other rifle scopes?
A 1-8x scope has variable magnification from 1x- 8x. It allows fast target acquisition at close range and precise aiming at medium distances. First focal plane reticles keep hold points accurate at all zoom levels.
Are 1-8x scopes suitable for hunting and tactical use?
Yes. They are versatile for multiple applications. Low magnification lets you engage close targets quickly, while higher magnification allows accurate medium-range shots. Most are durable enough to handle rough environments and heavy recoil.
What features should I look for when choosing a 1-8x scope?
Look for clear glass with coatings, a first focal plane or reliable reticle, consistent eye relief, durable construction and smooth adjustable turrets. Illumination options and quick magnification control are also valuable for efficiency and accuracy.
Conclusion
The best 1 to 8x scopes give shooters unmatched versatility. They let you move fast at close range while still making accurate medium-distance shots.
Among our top picks, the Primary Arms SLx 1-8×24 FFP stands out for its sharp visuals and versatile ACSS Raptor reticle. The Swampfox Arrowhead 1-8x24mm is budget-friendly without sacrificing performance, while the Trijicon VCOG 1-8x28mm is the premium option for durability and clarity.
No matter your budget or shooting style, these scopes offer reliability, clear optics and practical features that make shooting safer, faster and more effective. Choosing the right 1-8x scope ensures you stay confident on every range and field scenario.