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A non-magnified red dot is ideal for close to mid-range engagements, but less optimal for longer shots. On the other hand, low power variable optics (LPVOs) offer greater versatility, but also add more bulk and weight than most red dot sights. So, which optic is right for your rifle?
Choosing the primary sighting system for your rifle is essential to unlocking your build's full potential. The most popular optics in today's market tend to fall into two categories, red dot sights (also called reflex sights) and low power variable optics (LPVOs). What's the difference?
Unlike traditional rifle scopes, a red dot does not have any magnification whatsoever. The sight picture is 1:1 with what you would see outside of the optic window. By contrast, an LPVO has a range of magnification, usually starting at 1x (non-magnified) and peaking at 6-8x magnification.
Another key feature of LPVOs is the throw lever, which shooters can use to quickly make adjustments on the fly. This allows for a sight picture that is not dissimilar from a red dot at close range, but also empowers the user to "zoom in" closer on their target at greater distances.
Red dot or reflex optics are great for new shooters because they are relatively simple and straightforward. Just mount the optic to your rifle's top rail, zero the reticle at the desired range, and you're ready to shoot. The dot reticle is easy to pick up quickly and brightness can be adjusted for a variety of different lighting conditions.
Best of all, even the smallest red dot optic's window will provide better eye relief than an LPVO. This means that your eye can be farther away from the lens without compromising your ability to see the reticle, which is useful for CQB and self defense as it allows for better situational awareness.
Most manufacturers also offer an optional flip-to-side fixed power magnifier that can be used in conjunction with a red dot optic. Magnifiers can be purchased separately or as part of an optics bundle. The one drawback is that they take up additional rail real estate (rail estate?) on your gun.
LPVOs are purpose-built for engaging targets at various distances without switching firearms or adjusting zero. Simply adjust the magnification using the throw lever and you can engage targets at 50 yards or 300 yards with minimal effort. And like red dots, most LPVOs have illuminated reticles with several brightness settings for daylight or low-light shooting.
Due to their versatility, LPVOs are a popular choice for competition as well as RECCE rifles - both of which are typically configured for shooting under changing conditions. The ability to dynamically shift between low and high magnification is invaluable when every second - and every shot - counts.
An LPVO paired with a sturdy mount can elevate a rifle's performance, making it easier to make precise shots even at longer distances. That said, they are slightly more obtrusive than a red dot, so each shooter must weigh the added heft against the likelihood they will need to engage targets beyond 150-200 yards.
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Ultimately, your goals will dictate which optics setup is best for you. If you're building a dedicated home defense rifle, a red dot is going to meet your needs. You can always throw on a magnifier if you take your gun out backpacking or camping for the weekend, and there are plenty of red dots to choose from.
If you're building out a general-purpose rifle that needs to excel in a variety of use cases, an LPVO may be a better choice. The ability to change magnification with a quick throw lever gives you more options for engaging targets without making a ton of changes to your setup, which is a huge plus in the field.
And if you're on the fence, why not run both? With the right combination of parts, you can mount an LPVO with a red dot on top and you won't even have to cant your rifle as you would with a 45-degree offset red dot mount.
You may have already noticed that this blog doesn't mention the Trijicon ACOG, and that's because we have an entire video dedicated to comparing the ACOG to LPVOs and red dot / magnifier combos. Watch below for more information about all three sighting systems!
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