A low power variable optic (LPVO) offers shooters and hunters with the flexibility needed for close to mid range applications, offering low magnification that can be as low as 1x up to as high as 8x, although some models are available at 10x magnification power.
Brands like Vortex, Leupold, and Primary Arms are known for LPV scopes. But the question, “can you hunt with a LPVO?” The short answer is yes. In fact, low power variable optics offer hunters with much-needed versatility and power at the same time.
LPVO Uses & Applications
Low power variable optics is considered a highly adaptable and multi-purpose scope that possesses the best qualities of a red dot sight and a long range riflescope. A red dot sight excels in close quarter battles and quick target acquisition, while traditional long range scopes, are you guessed it, for long range accuracy.
There are many uses of an LPVO not just for hunting, and in fact, they’ve been used by professionals, like 3-gun shooters, security personnel, and military law enforcement guys. Competition shooters also choose it for pretty much the same benefits like quick target acquisition and close range targeting.
A low power variable rifle scope is also extremely useful and suitable for MSR or AR rifles.
Is LPVO good for hunting?
Yes, and in many situations.
Those hunting and stalking deer and elk in the woods can take advantage of the wide field of view and quick target acquisition provided by an LPV scope, especially in situations in which there is a narrow shot.
Meanwhile, hunters of predator and hog also need an LPVO’s ability to help with fast follow-up shots particularly when there are multiple targets in sight.
On the other hand, mountain hunters can also make use of a lighter scope. For example, muzzle loaders will rarely take a game beyond the 200 yards marks. Hunters can also benefit from a high quality and bright glass.
Then, users in the bear country and are pursuing dangerous, huge games can greatly benefit from an LPVO’s quick target acquisition capabilities. That’s the power of a low power variable scope like a 1x scope, which can save them in a life and death situation when they need to aim and shoot fast.
Nevertheless, an LPVO’s used outdoors are undeniably advantageous for hunters. In line to this, it’s why a lot of hunters are adding a low power variable scope in their optics arsenal.
Some considerable disadvantages of an LPVO in hunting could be its overall weight and smaller front aperture. But even so, LPVOs can offer a lot of benefits especially if taking shots within 200 yards and more as well as users who prefer sighting devices with lower magnifications.
Are you hunting in low light? If you plan to hunt at dusk or dawn or in low light, I recommend a scope with a larger objective lens or use one made with top quality coatings and glass for superior image quality, which is very important in low light especially that most LPVOs have a smaller objective.
And if you’re planning to hunt more in the early and late hours of daylight, you should invest in a scope with a higher quality scope, which can cost a little more expensive than other scopes.
It is also important to factor in the performance of the scope under the intense sunlight. So if hunting mostly in daylight time, choose a low power variable scope that is made with adjustable brightness settings. This will let you dial it based on the lighting conditions you’re in.
What Makes an LPVO good for hunting?
It can work like a red dot sight at 1x, giving you a larger field of view (FOV) and assisting with getting on your target faster versus a magnified scope. This scope also lets you zoom in at a higher power when identifying targets at a farther distance, making it suitable for hunting areas, like open country, large meadows, and thick forest.
How far can I shoot with a LPVO?
Let’s take a 1-6x LPVO, which is a common choice. It can offer you with a sufficient magnification or power. This is significant for hitting targets at distances out to 1,000 yards, depending on the glass quality, optics, and skills, although LPVOs can be more useful for close range targets that are most suitable for a majority of shooters.
Is there too much power from a low power variable scope?
Remember that cranking up the scope’s power will definitely narrow your field of view, reduce light transmission, affect the cheek weld for a tighter eye box, and hinder speed of target acquisition. But then, some users with vision issues may be aided with more magnification for improving precision at longer ranges.
Also be reminded that there will always be pros and cons of having or not having higher power in a scope. There are cases when a higher powered scope isn’t always ideal for the situation. So at the end of the day, select optics suitable for the purpose and application and factors in aspects that include using the right magnification.
How much magnification is enough?
Generally, shooting at 100 yards will require 1x power for people with a good vision, but using 2x for every 100 yards may be the go-to solution for hunters hunting in terrains with adverse weather and lighting conditions as well as shooting within 400 yards.
For users with bad eyes and looking to spot groupings, they might as well be better off with a 1-8x or 1-10x scopes. Still though, personal preference varies.
Final Thoughts
LPVOs are good for hunting, although they have some limitations like other optics. The higher magnification can be more suitable for hunting in low light conditions.
Nevertheless, an LPVO is one of the most versatile scopes out there to offer you with plenty of advantages like flexibility and versatility, offering you the best qualities of red dots and longer range scopes. They’re highly versatile for close quarter encounters and long range targets.
But when choosing a hunting LPVO, choose one that suits the type of application you’ll need it for, as it is still your preference that should win in the end.
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