Best 1-6x Scope – Top 5 Best Rated 1-6x Scopes Review

A 1-6x low power variable optic (LPVO) provides a nice balance of magnification for close to medium-range shooting. A popular option for AR-15s, the best 1-6x scope isn’t just for modern sporting rifles. These optics are also well-suited for hunting, 3 Gun competitions, and tactical applications. 

There are plenty of these versatile riflescopes on the market today. However, with so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to narrow it down to make a decision. We’re here to share a few of our favorite models to help you on your search. We’ll also cover a few key aspects to keep in mind while you shop for a new LPVO.

If you’re in a hurry and don’t have time for the details, here are our picks for the best rated 1-6x scopes:

1. EOTech Vudu 1-6×24
2. Leupold VX-6HD 1-6×24
3. Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24
4. Bushnell AR Optics 1-6×24
5. Primary Arms SLX 1-6×24

Advantages of a 1-6x Scope

It is no secret that using a magnified scope can improve shooting accuracy, especially when engaging distance targets. However, in some situations magnification can be more of a hindrance than a help. Zoom in with a high-magnification scope and the field of view narrows, decreasing peripheral awareness and making it difficult to track moving targets. Magnification can also make it difficult to engage targets that are at close-range. 

An LPVO allows shooters to engage targets both with and without magnification. With true 1x magnification, acquiring moving targets at close range is a simple process. When shooters need to make precision shots on long-range targets, they can dial up the magnification. 

This makes 1-6x scopes some of the most versatile tactical optics on the planet. They are often paired with modern sporting rifles like the AR-15 or SCAR 17. They are also a popular option for fast-paced 3 Gun competition and are rapidly gaining a following among serious hunters. 

Choosing a 1-6x Scope

While there are tons of top-notch 1-6x scopes on the market, they are not all created equal. Some are better suited for certain shooting applications than others. However, there are a few key things to look for when shopping for any LPVO.

Construction

Because LPVOs are often used for tactical and hunting purposes, they often need to survive rough use and harsh environmental conditions. Look for a durable scope that features o-ring seals, and has a hard-anodized exterior finish.

Lenses and Coatings

Image quality is important for accuracy. For best results, look for an optic made with high-density glass and fully multi-coated optics. 

Reticle

LPVOs feature a wide variety of reticle designs. Hunters often prefer the simplicity of a Duplex reticle, while long-range shooters prefer the precision of a BDC design. BDC reticles have more detailed markings that help with ranging and holdovers. 

An illuminated reticle can make it easier to engage targets in low-light environments. However, illumination relies on batteries for power. If the batteries die in the field, the scope becomes nearly useless. As a backup, a glass-etched reticle is still visible if the batteries die. You should also carry an extra set of batteries with you, just in case.

Best 1-6x Scope on the Market Reviews

With so many quality LPVOs currently in production, we can’t list them all. Since space is limited, this is by no means an exhaustive list. These are simply a few of our favorites.

 1   EOTech Vudu 1-6×24

Although EOTech is known for its tactical optics, the Vudu was actually designed with 3 Gun competition in mind. However, that shouldn’t make you think the Vudu is only for modern sporting rifles. The Vudu also makes a nice addition to any bolt action hunting rifle. 

EOTech uses premium XC high-density glass and broadband anti-reflection lens coatings to deliver a bright, crisp sight picture, even in low light. 

The Vudu also features an illuminated FFP (first focal plane) Speed Ring reticle that provides easy-to-see aiming points in any shooting light. The reticle marks hold true to the target whether you have the scope on 1x or cranked up to full power. The Speed Ring is also designed to facilitate rapid target acquisition on up-close moving targets. 

Like all EOTech optics, the Vudu is built for rough handling and demanding environments. The main housing is crafted from a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum. The exterior has a hard-anodized finish for extra durability. The whole unit is nitrogen-purged and o-ring sealed for reliable fogproof performance.

Is It Worth It?

If you know me, you know I’m a huge fan of EOTech optics, especially for tactical shooting applications. Although EOTech products tend to be pricier than some other brands, they are well worth the investment. I’ve never once been sorry I invested in one of these rugged, battle-ready optics. “Buy once, cry once,” as the old saying goes. 

Still not convinced? Here are just a few of the reasons the EOTech Vudu holds the number one spot on this list. 

• Durable construction.
• XC high-density glass.
• Broadband anti-reflection optical coatings.
• Waterproof, fogproof, shockproof.
• Illuminated FFP Speed Ring reticle. 
• Simple push-button controls.
• Surgically precise low-profile turrets.
• Limited lifetime warranty. 

Mounting and Accessories

The EOTech Vudu does not include mounting rings. You will need to purchase a set of 30mm rings separately. We recommend EOTech’s 30mm PRS 2 in Cantilever Riflescope Ring Mount.

 2   Leupold VX-6HD 1-6×24

Leupold is one of the most respected names in the optics industry, and one look through their VX-6HD riflescope makes it easy to see why. This LPVO has some of the best optical quality on the market, and it’s jam-packed with high-performance features to boot. 

This rugged optic is fully fogproof and waterproof and is designed to perform reliably in extreme temperatures ( -40ºF to 160ºF). All Leupold optics undergo rigorous impact testing, so you know this scope can handle any level of abuse you can dish out. 

The VX-6HD features an illuminated SFP (second focal plane) reticle, side parallax adjustment, a fast-focus eyepiece, and zero lock windage adjustment. Illumination is controlled by simple, user-friendly buttons, and the optic features motion sensor technology that automatically turns off illumination during periods of inactivity. 

One unique feature that hunters will particularly appreciate is the Twilight Max Light Management System. Using a proprietary combination of premium glass and lens coatings, Twilight Max enhances low light brightness and clarity, adding extra precious shooting light at the start and end of every day.

 Is It Worth It?

Leupold’s Twilight Max Light Management System should be enough to convince hunters and other low-light shooters of this optic’s worth. However, the VX-6HD has plenty of other selling points, including:

• Backed by a full lifetime warranty.
• Durable construction. 
• Built to resist internal fogging. 
• SFP reticle with push-button illumination.
• Motion sensor technology.
• Parallax adjustment.
• Generous eye box.
• Fast-focus eyepiece. Zero lock windage adjustment.
• Twilight Max Light Management System. 

Mounting and Accessories

Mounting the Leupold VX-6HD requires a set of 30mm scope rings. We recommend using Leupold’s PRW Weaver-style Cross-Slot Scope Rings. 

 3   Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24

Vortex riflescopes are famously rugged and reliable. The Viper PST is one of the company’s mid-range offerings. However, this scope outperforms some high-end offerings from other manufacturers. 

Delivering stunning brightness and clarity, the Viper PST features extra-low dispersion (XD) glass and proprietary anti-reflective lens coatings. Designed to maximize light transmission and reduce glare, Vortex’s patented multi-coatings deliver incredible edge-to-edge clarity and a bright sight picture, even in low light. 

To maintain that crystal clear sight picture, Vortex also added ArmorTek scratch-resistant coatings to protect lenses from dirt, sand, oil, and fingerprints. 

This super sturdy scope is crafted from a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum. The housing is argon-purged and o-ring sealed for reliable fogproof, waterproof, shockproof performance. The exterior has a hard anodized finish for extra durability. 

Other significant features include an illuminated SFP glass-etched reticle, tactical-style laser-etched turrets, a fast-focus eyepiece, and a CRS zero stop.

Is It Worth It?

Vortex optics never disappoint. If you need an LPVO to pull double duty for hunting and tactical shooting, the Viper PST Gen II is a highly capable option. This is also one of the best 1-6x riflescopes you’ll find for under $1000. 

Here are the specs:

• Constructed of sturdy aircraft-grade aluminum. 
• Hard-anodized finish. 
• Fogproof, waterproof, and shockproof. 
• XD glass.
• Fully multi-coated optics.
• ArmorTek anti-scratch lens treatments.
• Illuminated, etched-glass reticle.
• Tactical laser-etched turrets.
• CRS zero stop feature.
• Fast-focus eyepiece. 

Mounting and Accessories

We recommend using the Vortex 30mm Cantilever Riflescope Ring Mount for mounting the Viper on a modern sporting rifle.

 4   Bushnell AR Optics 1-6×24

Built specifically for modern sporting rifles, the Bushnell AR Optics 1-6×24 riflescope has a lightweight, compact design that won’t weigh down your rifle or throw off its balance. 

Other handy tactical features include a folding throw lever for quick power changes, capped low-profile turrets, and an illuminated BTR-1 reticle. Located on the second focal plane, the reticle is calibrated specifically for .223 Rem/5.56 ammunition loaded with 55-62 grain bullets. It provides reliable holdovers for targets out to 500 yards. 

This LPVO is super sturdy and features an IPX7 waterproof construction. Crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum, the main housing is o-ring sealed to keep the inside dry and prevent internal fogging. 

The optical quality on this scope is exceptional, especially for one in this price range. All air-to-glass surfaces are treated with multiple coatings to enhance light transmission and provide a crisp, vibrant sight picture, even in low light. 

Is It Worth It?

If you’re looking for an affordable, quality LPVO for your AR-15, this model from Bushnell is priced under $500. It also has plenty to offer for the money. Just don’t let the price tag fool you. This one performs well above its price point. 

The Bushnell AR Optics 1-6×24 has:

• A compact, lightweight design. 
• Sturdy construction.
• IPX7 waterproof rating.
• Illuminated SFP reticle.
• Reticle calibrated for common .223/5.56 loads.
• Folding throw lever for quick magnification changes.
• Capped, low-profile turrets.
• Fully multi-coated optics.

Mounting and Accessories

The Bushnell AR Optics 1-6×24 riflescope includes two throw levers (one long and one short), a lens cloth, and a scope cover. For mounting, you will need a set of 30mm scope rings.

 5   Primary Arms SLX 1-6×24

The Primary Arms SLX LPVO is a quality, low-cost option for budget-conscious shooters. The SLX is one of Primary Arms’ best sellers, and it’s easy to see why. This quality optic offers fully multi-coated lenses for impressive optical clarity, even at full magnification. 

The scope also features a patented ACSS (Advanced Combined Sighting System) reticle. This BDC reticle is located on the second focal plane. It’s instinctive design allows shooters to easily lead moving targets and estimate range. It’s a nice do-it-all design that works perfectly for hunting, competition, and tactical shooting. The reticle is calibrated for 5.56 and .308 loads. It also features partial, high-visibility red illumination with eleven brightness settings. It is powered by CR2032 batteries, which are included in the package. 

Is It Worth It?

While the Primary Arms SLX riflescope isn’t our top option, as a budget optic, it performs surprisingly well. Since life isn’t fair and not everyone has a ton of cash to drop on an LPVO, we’ve included this model for shooters with budget limitations.

Here’s what you can expect from this affordable LPVO:

• High-quality, fully multi-coated optics.
• Capped, low-profile turrets.
• Illuminated SFP reticle.
• Eleven brightness settings.
• Versatile, easy-to-use ACSS reticle design. 

Mounting and Accessories

The Primary Arms SLX does not come with a mount. We highly recommend the 30mm Burris AR-P.E.P.R Tactical Riflescope Rings with Mount, especially if you plan to mount the SLX on an AR-15 or AR-10.

Final Thoughts

It is impossible to crown one optic as the absolute best 1-6x scope on the market today. However, each of the options on our list is a high-quality, reliable optic. 

No matter which model you choose, be sure to spend some time practicing with your new rifle/scope set-up. Ultimately, your best weapon is shooting proficiency, and that is best developed through deliberate range practice.