Finding the perfect 1-8x riflescope can feel like a daunting task. The market is flooded with options, each promising superior optical clarity, rugged construction, and intuitive reticles. Whether you’re a competitive shooter pushing your limits or a hunter seeking a versatile optic for varied terrain, the right low-power variable optic (LPVO) can significantly enhance your effectiveness and confidence on the range or in the field.
Our team has rigorously tested and evaluated a wide array of 1-8x scopes to separate the truly exceptional from the merely adequate. We focused on critical performance metrics including glass quality, illumination brightness, reticle design, turret feel, and overall durability. This roundup is designed to guide you toward the ideal scope for your specific needs and rifle platform, ensuring your next purchase is an informed one.
Our Top-Tested 1-8x Scope Picks
- Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 1-8×24 SFP Riflescope
- Primary Arms SLx 1-8x24mm FFP Scope with ACSS Raptor
- Burris RT-8 1-8x28mm Illuminated Ballistic CQ Reticle
- Trijicon AccuPower 1-8×28 with Red Illuminated Crosshair
- Leupold Mark 5HD 1-8x24mm with FireDot Illuminated Reticle
- EOTech Vudu 1-8×28 FFP Precision Scope with SR5 Reticle
- Swampfox Optics Tomahawk 1-8×28 LPVO with BDC Reticle
- Athlon Optics Talos BTR 1-8×24 First Focal Plane Riflescope
Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 1-8×24 Second Focal Plane Riflescope
The Vortex Strike Eagle stands as a benchmark for value in the LPVO category. It provides a feature-rich package that is accessible to a wide range of shooters. The illuminated AR-BDC3 reticle in the second focal plane is easy to use, especially for rapid, close-range shooting, as the holdovers remain a constant size throughout the magnification range.
Built to handle recoil, the scope is shockproof and features a hard anodized single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube. The fast-focus eyepiece and fully multi-coated lenses ensure a bright, clear sight picture. Vortex backs this scope with their legendary VIP warranty, guaranteeing performance and providing exceptional customer peace of mind.
Primary Arms SLx 1-8x24mm FFP Rifle Scope with ACSS Raptor Reticle
Primary Arms has carved out a niche with its innovative reticle designs, and the SLx 1-8x24mm is a prime example. The ACSS Raptor reticle is etched in the first focal plane, meaning its ranging and holdover features are accurate at any magnification setting. This makes it incredibly versatile for both close-quarters engagements and precise shots at distance.
The scope offers a generous eye box and clear glass for its class, facilitating quick target acquisition. It is built to be durable and reliable, with a robust construction that stands up to heavy use. For shooters who want a sophisticated, feature-packed FFP reticle without a premium price tag, the SLx is a compelling choice.
Burris RT-8 1-8x28mm Illuminated Ballistic CQ Reticle Riflescope
The Burris RT-8 is designed for speed and close-to-medium range engagements. Its Ballistic CQ reticle is simple and uncluttered at 1x power, functioning almost like a red dot for rapid shooting. As you increase magnification, additional holdover points become visible, aiding in shot placement out to several hundred yards.
This scope features a 28mm objective lens, which can provide a slight edge in light gathering compared to 24mm models. The illumination controls are intuitive, and the entire unit is built to military standards for shock and vibration resistance. The RT-8 is a solid option for those who prioritize a fast, close-range field of view.
Trijicon AccuPower 1-8×28 Riflescope with Red Illuminated Crosshair
Trijicon is renowned for its rugged and reliable optics, and the AccuPower 1-8×28 lives up to that reputation. It offers exceptional optical clarity and color fidelity, thanks to its high-quality glass and coatings. The illuminated red crosshair reticle is simple, precise, and highly effective in low-light conditions.
Where the AccuPower truly shines is in its build quality and precision. The turrets provide tactile and audible clicks with a true zero-stop feature, allowing for confident and repeatable adjustments. This is a premium scope designed for professionals and serious enthusiasts who demand uncompromising performance and durability.
Leupold Mark 5HD 1-8x24mm Riflescope with FireDot Illuminated Reticle
The Leupold Mark 5HD 1-8×24 represents the cutting edge of LPVO technology, offering an incredibly lightweight and compact profile without sacrificing performance. The glass is exceptionally bright and sharp, with industry-leading resolution and edge-to-edge clarity that you would expect from the Mark 5HD line.
Its FireDot illuminated reticle provides a bright, daytime-visible aiming point for fast shooting, while the non-illuminated portions remain fine and precise for longer shots. Built with a 35mm main tube for increased adjustment range and strength, this scope is a top-tier choice for hunters and shooters where every ounce and every fraction of optical performance counts.
EOTech Vudu 1-8×28 FFP Precision Riflescope with SR5 Reticle
EOTech brings its expertise in holographic sights to the LPVO market with the Vudu 1-8×28. This scope features outstanding glass quality that competes with the best in its class. The first focal plane SR5 reticle is a clean, Christmas-tree-style design that is brilliant for precision shooting and holds at extended ranges.
The reticle illumination is bright enough for use in direct sunlight, and the scope maintains a relatively forgiving eye box even at higher magnifications. With its sleek design and exceptional optical performance, the Vudu is a fantastic option for the shooter who needs a dual-purpose scope capable of both speed and precision.
Swampfox Optics Tomahawk 1-8×28 LPVO Scope with BDC Reticle
The Swampfox Tomahawk offers a great balance of performance and affordability. It features a bright, illuminated BDC reticle in the second focal plane, making it straightforward to use for a variety of shooting applications. The glass is clear with good light transmission, providing a sharp image across the magnification range.
This scope is built to be tough, with a 6061 aluminum housing and shockproof construction. It also includes user-friendly features like a throw lever for quick magnification changes. The Tomahawk is a strong contender for anyone seeking a reliable, no-frills LPVO that performs well above its price point.
Athlon Optics Talos BTR 1-8×24 First Focal Plane Riflescope
Athlon Optics delivers remarkable value with the Talos BTR, bringing a first focal plane reticle to an extremely accessible price point. The APLR2 FFP IR MOA reticle allows for accurate holdovers and ranging at any magnification, a feature typically found on much more expensive optics.
Despite its budget-friendly nature, it doesn’t skimp on important features, including fully multi-coated lenses for a bright view and a precision-glide erector system for smooth zooming. For new shooters entering the LPVO world or experienced marksmen on a budget, the Talos BTR provides an excellent introduction to the benefits of a first focal plane design.
What to Look For in a 1-8X Scope
Choosing the right 1-8X scope for your rifle is about balancing performance, durability, and budget. I have tested many models, and a few key factors always separate the good from the great. Let’s break down what you should prioritize.
First, consider the optical quality. A sharp, bright, and clear glass is non-negotiable, especially at higher magnifications and in low-light conditions. Cheaper scopes often have a blurry image on 8X, which defeats the purpose. Look for fully multi-coated lenses; they significantly improve light transmission. The reticle is just as important. First Focal Plane (FFP) reticles are popular for long-range shooting because the reticle size changes with magnification, so your holdover points are always accurate. Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticles stay the same size, which is simpler for close-quarters work on 1X, but your holdovers are only correct at one magnification, usually the highest.
Next, think about the mechanics. The turrets should have a positive, tactile click when you adjust for windage and elevation. I prefer zero-stop or similar features, so you can easily return to your zero after dialing for long shots. The magnification ring and windage/elevation caps should be easy to grip and turn, even with gloves on. A stiff or musky throw lever can be a real problem when you need to quickly shift from 1X to 8X.
Durability is paramount. Your scope needs to handle recoil and the elements. Look for scopes made from a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum. They should be both shockproof and, crucially, waterproof and fog-proof. Nitrogen or Argon purging is standard for preventing internal fogging. A hard-anodized finish will also help resist scratches and corrosion.
Finally, eye relief and eye box are critical for safety and speed. A generous eye relief, around 3-4 inches, is safer on high-recoil rifles and more forgiving of head position. A wide eye box, particularly on 1X, allows for fast target acquisition, making it feel almost like a red dot sight. When you are looking at the 8 best 1-8X scopes for your rifle, tested and rated for 2025, pay close attention to how forgiving the sight picture is at both ends of the magnification range.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the advantage of a 1-8X scope over a 1-6X?
The main advantage is the extra magnification on the top end. An 8X setting gives you more precision for target identification and shot placement at longer distances compared to 6X. This makes a 1-8X scope a more versatile option if you anticipate engaging targets from point-blank range out to 500-600 yards. It’s like having a red dot and a mid-power scope in one package.
Is a First Focal Plane or Second Focal Plane reticle better for a 1-8X scope?
This depends entirely on your primary use. For a tactical or competition rifle where you need to make rapid holdovers at unknown distances, a First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle is superior because the holdover marks are accurate at every magnification. For a general-purpose or defensive rifle where most close-range shooting is done on 1X and you only use 8X for precise, unhurried shots, a Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticle is simpler and often has a cleaner center dot for fast shooting.
Can I use a 1-8X scope for hunting?
Absolutely. A 1-8X scope is an excellent choice for hunting, especially in mixed environments like wooded areas where a quick shot might present itself, or open fields where you need more magnification. The 1X setting is perfect for moving targets at close range, while the 8X gives you the clarity to make an ethical shot at longer distances. Just make sure the scope is lightweight if you’ll be carrying it for long periods.
How much should I expect to spend on a good 1-8X scope?
You can find entry-level 1-8X scopes starting around $300, but for a model with reliable turrets, clear glass, and robust construction, I recommend budgeting between $500 and $1,500. The high-end models from brands like Nightforce and Schmidt & Bender will cost significantly more. You are paying for superior optical clarity, bomb-proof durability, and advanced features like illuminated reticles with multiple brightness settings. When I test and rate these optics, the performance jump in the mid-tier price range is very noticeable.
What does “true 1X” mean and why is it important?
“True 1X” means that on its lowest setting, the scope provides 1 power of magnification, meaning it does not minify or magnify the image. This is important because it allows you to shoot with both eyes open, just like with a red dot sight. This provides a much wider field of view and faster target engagement for close-quarters shooting. Some cheaper scopes may have a “1.1X” or similar low setting, which can feel slightly zoomed in and disrupt that natural, fast point-and-shoot capability.
Are illuminated reticles necessary on a 1-8X scope?
While not strictly necessary, an illuminated reticle is a massive advantage, especially on the 1X setting. In low-light conditions or against a dark background, a black reticle can be difficult to see quickly. A bright, illuminated center dot or circle allows for extremely fast aiming. For tactical use, competition, or dawn/dusk hunting, I consider it an essential feature. Most good 1-8X scopes will include this, often with night-vision compatible settings.