best 1-6x scopes

The 8 Best 1-6x Scopes For The Money in 2021

There are a lot of conflicting ideas about the best magnification settings for rifle scopes which is quite understandable as different shooters have different demands. That being said, if you want something that helps you shoot accurately from point-blank ranges out to 600 yards, 1-6x shall be the ideal choice. Possessing good reaches, superb adaptabilities and wide fields of view, 1-6x scopes have seen extensive use in hunting, competitive shooting,… However, getting the best 1-6x scope is a tricky task due to a large number of products on the market.

Reviews Of Top-Rated 1-6x Scopes

You are feeling confused and could use a few suggestions? If that happens to be the case then you have come to the right place. Down below, you would be introduced to a couple of quality units that earn positive remarks from experts in the field and seasoned firearm enthusiasts. Glance over the following optics and see if you are able to get the best 1-6x scope for your gun.

1. Vortex Optics Strike Eagle – Best Of The Best

Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 1-6x24 scope

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Specifications:

  • Weight: 1.1 Pounds
  • Eye Relief: 3.5 Inches
  • Lens Diameter: 24 Millimeters  

Why This Is The Best

Light, compact and highly adaptable, Vortex Optics Strike Eagle is the best 1-6x scope in term of all-around performance. Being developed for fast engagement, the scope from Vortex Optics is able to help you nail target at short notice. On top of that, thanks to the clever use of fully multicoated lenses in its design, the scope always delivers crisp images to the shooters.  

For the reticle, the Vortex Optics scope utilizes an illuminated, glass-etched BDC pattern that is optimized for 5.56×45mm NATO. That means if you like to use AR-15 and its variants, the scope would serve you well on the field. Featuring multiple integrated brightness settings, the scope is the best 1-6x scope for AR as it let you shoot accurately in ever-changing outdoor conditions.

Regarding structural endurance, Vortex Optics Strike Eagle is waterproof, shockproof and fogproof which permit to work flawlessly in adverse environments. Moreover, the excellent sturdiness of the scope tube is appreciated by hunters that often have to walk through challenging terrains. The optic could handle a lot of abuse and still remain completely operational for years.

Pros:

  • Quality coating
  • Well built and rugged
  • Straightforward operation

Cons:

  • Somewhat unforgiving eyebox
  • No auto off feature for the reticle

2. TruGlo Tru-Brite 30 Series – Editor’s Choice

TruGlo Tru-Brite 30 Series

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Specifications:

  • Weight: 1.25 Pounds
  • Eye Relief: 3.75 Inches
  • Lens Diameter: 24 Millimeters  

Why It’s An Editor’s Choice:

Made from aircraft grade aluminum, TruGlo Tru-Brite 30 Series is capable of taking a beating and still hold up well. If you happen to want something tough, the TruGlo unit is going to be the best 1-6x scope for you. As a marvelous combination of precision, clarity and speed, the scope would surely bring significant boosts to your shooting experience. The turrets of the scopes lock firmly once push down so your setting is secured.

The scope from TruGlo incorporates an illuminated reticle that comes in 2 colors (red and green) but you could select the standard non-illuminated pattern (black).  Although there are complaints that the reticle is distracting as it’s too thick, others feel that everything is fine. About the operation, it’s a breeze for you to zero the scope thanks to its straightforward caliber specific settings.

Since TruGlo Tru-Brite 30 Series give true 1x magnification which proves extremely handy in close quarter engagements, people tend to call it the best tactical 1-6x scope for the money. For drawbacks, the scope is a bit heavy though not to the point that it might weight down your rifle. Furthermore, the quality of the sight image drops the highest magnification so it just barely adequate for long range shooting.

Pros:

  • Nice finish
  • Respectable endurance
  • Ergonomic adjustment turrets

Cons:

  • Picky eye relief
  • Mediocre illumination  

3. Primary Arms ACSS Gen III – Editor’s Choice

Primary Arms ACSS Gen II Scope

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Specifications:

  • Weight: 1.05 Pounds
  • Eye Relief: 3.3 – 3.5 Inches
  • Lens Diameter: 24 Millimeters  

Why It’s An Editor’s Choice

Boasting ACSS (‘Advanced Combined Sighting System), Primary Arms Gen III receive a lot of positive remarks from worldwide shooter communities. Made for rifles chambered in 5.56×45mm NATO, 5.45x39mm, .308 Winchester and 6.5mm Grendel, the Primary Arms is a great choice for a multitude of settings. Since it employs a very robust construction, you should have peace of mind knowing that the scope shall not break.

The reticle of the Primary Arms scope is only partially illuminated but you have plenty of briskness settings to pick. For the energy source, the scope requires a single CR2032 battery that is available everywhere. As it’s purged by nitrogen, the scope experiences no trouble working in foggy surroundings. Moreover, the scope is rated at IP 67 so it could survive water immersion as well.

There are many comparisons about Primary Arms 1-6x vs Vortex Strike Eagle on the Internet and while the Vortex Optics unit possesses superior performance, the model from Primary Arms tends to come out on top in respect of cost-effectiveness. Compared to its competitors, the scope is considerably more affordable and offers some of the most useful functions on the market which explain its popularity.

Pros:

  • Highly affordable
  • Sublime light transmission
  • Lifetime manufacturer warranty

Cons:

  • Slightly small reticle
  • The battery life is short

4. Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II

Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II

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Specifications:

  • Weight: 1.40 Pounds
  • Eye Relief: 3.8 Inches
  • Lens Diameter: 24 Millimeters  

Why We Love It

Using fully multicoated lens in its design, Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II is the best 1-6x scope available for purchase in term of clarity. For hunters that have to stay in the outdoor all day long, the Vortex Optics scope is an ideal companion. The scope regulates the annoying glare effect competently and in low light conditions, it still manages to provide sharp, well-defined images to the shooters.  

The reticle of the scope from Vortex Optics possesses a series of hold points but remain uncluttered for optimal view. Therefore, most people have no trouble taking shot as soon as an opportunity presents itself. As with many modern-day products, the scope integrates illumination settings for its reticle that deliver up to 10 intensity choice. That feature should let you keep the scope reticle clearly visible as surrounding light changes.

Regarding durability, Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II endures vibrations, shocks and more pretty well due to its robust build. That means the scope could take a couple of bumps in use without breaking apart. Assuming that you keep things appropriate, the scope shall last for years on the field. As a proof of its confidence in the scope, Vortex Optics offers you a limited lifetime warranty if you purchase the Viper which speaks volumes.

Pros:

  • Generous eye relief
  • Great visual performance
  • Fairly decent ruggedness

Cons:

  • On the heavy side
  • Slightly stiff turrets

5. Monstrum Tactical BDC

Monstrum Tactical BDC

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Specifications:

  • Weight: 1 Pound
  • Eye Relief: 4 – 4.5 Inches
  • Lens Diameter: 24 Millimeters   

Why We Love It

Unable to scrape together enough money to buy optics from Vortex Optics, Nikon and others? Then Monstrum Tactical BDC might be the ultimate choice for your rather limited shopping budget. Considering the price, it’s quite obvious that the features of the Monstrum scope would not blow your mind away. That being said, the scope is nonetheless the best 1-6x scope for cost-conscious shooters.

Tightly sealed and nitrogen purged, the scope from Monstrum is waterproof as well as fogproof. Because of its excellent resistance against the elements, the scope performs admirably in the outdoors. In order to protect the lens from damages, the scope comes along a lens cover. Since the lens cover is transparent, it’s possible for you to take aim and shoot without having to remove the cover from the scope.

One noteworthy characteristic of Monstrum Tactical BDC is its superb eye relief that comfortably supports the use of powerful calibers. Combining that with an illuminated BDC reticle, the scope let shooters score hit after hit on a multitude of platforms. Moreover, the bulk of the scope is very light so its influence on the balance of your rifle is insignificant for most of the time.

Pros:

  • Rugged construction
  • Abundant eye relief
  • Sublime resistances

Cons:

  • Wacky lock rings
  • Fairly rigid zoom selection

6. Primary Arms CQB Gen III

Primary Arms CQB Gen III

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Specifications:

  • Weight: 1.05 Pounds
  • Eye Relief: 3.3 – 3.5 Inches
  • Lens Diameter: 24 Millimeters  

Why We Love It

Resemble Primary Arms ACSS Gen III but actually optimized for 7.62x39mm and .300 AAC Blackout, Primary Arms CQB Gen III is definitely a worthwhile investment. Capable of bringing targets to you instantly, the Primary Arms units is the best 1-6x scope for you if your main concern is target acquisition. The scope support supersonic as well as subsonic loads so you could use a wide range of ammunition in circulation.

In term of reticle, the scope from Primary Arms receives a partially illuminated pattern like its cousin which is powered by a single CR2032 battery. You have a lot of brightness settings to pick that correspond to different light conditions. As a result, it’s simple to ensure that the reticle of the scope remains noticeable throughout the entire day. In most of the case, the reticle let you react quickly from 0 to 400 yards and shoot accurately up to 600 yards.

Constructed from quality aluminum and anodized finish, Primary Arms CQB Gen III operates soundly in unfavorable weathers and hostile environments. As it’s sealed and purged before leaving the factory, the scope overcome fog and water immersion without much difficulty. For post-purchase support, a lifetime manufacturer warranty accompanies the scope that takes care of manufacturing defects and ordinary wears.

Pros:

  • Fine glass
  • Hold zero well
  • Legible reticle

Cons:

  • Flimsy flip caps
  • Spilling illumination

7. Trijicon TR-25 AccuPoint

Trijicon TR-25 AccuPoint

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Specifications:

  • Weight: 1.2 Pounds
  • Eye Relief: 3.9 Inches  
  • Lens Diameter: 24 Millimeters   

Why We Love It:

Trijicon is a famous name in the business thanks to its high-quality products and TR-25 AccuPoint is a product that solidifies the brand reputation. Packing multicoated lenses, the Trijicon scope is able to minimize distortion and offer crystal clear images from dawn till dusk. Such a characteristic permits people to shoot virtually all day long without experiencing impaired visions.

For the reticle, the scope from Trijicon incorporates an illuminated pattern but instead of batteries, it employs tritium phosphor lamps. That means you don’t have to worry about the reticle going dark right in the middle of the hunt. Additionally, the scope utilizes advanced fiber optic technology which automatically adjusts the contrast and intensity of the reticle aiming point to match various light conditions.   

To make Trijicon TR-25 AccuPoint strong enough to endure challenging environments in the great outdoors, the manufacturer uses aircraft grade aluminum for the scope body. Because of that, the scope is weatherproof and would have no trouble tackling the elements. Despite the fact that it’s comparatively expensive, the scope is still in high demand due to its robust performance. All things considered, the scope deserve the title of the best 1-6x scope for the money these kinds of day.  

Pros:

  • Battery-free
  • Durable build
  • Dual illumination

Cons:

  • High acquisition cost
  • Reduced eyebox at high magnifications

8. Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II

Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II Scope 1-6x24

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Specifications:

  • Weight: 1.8 Pounds
  • Eye Relief: 3.6 Inches  
  • Lens Diameter: 24 Millimeters  

Why We Love It

Being made for hunting, plinking and competitive shooting, Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II never disappoints shooters on the field. Featuring extra-low dispersion glass in its lenses, the scope from Vortex Optics provides people with the best light transmission as well as color fidelity. Hence, the sight images remain relatively crisps as light in the surrounding start to fluctuate.

Similar to a lot of models on the market nowadays, the Vortex Optics scope also utilizes an illuminated reticle pattern. The scope presents quite a few brightness options so you could pick the one that suits your eye the most and lock down the setting. Regarding power, the scope delivers true 1x magnification which let shooter discharge while keeping both eyes open for enhanced awareness.

For endurance, Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II uses a combination of ArmorTek scratch resistant coating and top tier aluminum. As a result, it’s capable of putting with less than ideal operating conditions for a long time without sustaining major damages in the process. As it sealed and purged, the scope is immune to water immersion and fog which allow it to endure hardships.

Pros:

  • Waterproof and fogproof
  • High-performance reticle  
  • Attractive lifetime warranty

Cons:

  • Pricey
  • A bit heavy for some setups

In-Depth Buying Guide For The Best 1-6x Scope

Regarding a particular rifle scope, certain people could claim that it’s the perfect optic while others simply write it off as a mediocre product. That means the best 1-6x scope of someone else might be inadequate in your case. Hence, follow these hints if you truly wish to make the most of your money.

1. Take The Reticle Into Account

To put it plainly, the reticle is the aiming point of scopes so it’s safe to say that the reticle plays an important role. Nowadays, there are a multitude of reticle styles for you to choose like Duplex, Mil-Dot, BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator), illuminated, non-illuminated and more. You must consider aspects of your shooting environment in order to determine the most suitable reticle for your rifle scope.  

best 1-6x-scope review

2. Thoroughly Assess The Glass Quality

Scopes that use high-quality glass would deliver consistent images which let you acquire, observe and track targets without trouble. One way to ascertain the performance of the glass is to check out its coatings. Generally speaking, coated, multicoated and fully multicoated optics should be able to offer you outstanding vision in various light conditions. Of course, as the quality of the scope glass increase, the acquisition cost rise accordingly.   

3. Inspect And Exam Eye Relief

Overall, no one likes to use a rifle scope that is going to jam straight to their eye socket every time they take a shot. So to avoid receiving a nasty scope eye, it’s of utmost importance that you treat eye relief as one of the top shopping priories. For most of the time, the caliber of your own rifle shall give you a clue about acceptable eye relief. Normally, 3.5 inches is sufficient and there are even models that go as high as 5 inches.   

4. Thoroughly Assess The Scope Construction  

Although it’s true that you need to refrain from roughing your scopes, it’s strongly recommended that you get a unit that is capable of takings some minor hits. Regardless of how careful you are, there is always a chance that you could hit the scope against branches, bushes,… Because of that, having a tough unit definitely save you a headache on the field. Additionally, prioritize models that resist water, fog and so on if you intend to shoot extensively in the great outdoors.          

1-6x Scope

5. Think About Your Financial Capability

Similar to any other purchase, the shopping budget is an issue that requires special attention. Naturally, we want to obtain the best 1-6x scope using a minimal amount of money. That being said, it’s naive to expect top-of-the-line performance and premium materials from dirt cheap optics. So while it’s unnecessary to get the most expensive unit on the shelf, you have to hold back from picking up cheaply made products.    

Parallax Adjustment: Is It Vital?

In case you don’t know, parallax is an inconsistency that occurs once you shift the position of your eye. As it prevents the scope reticle from reflecting the direction that your weapon point at, parallax decrease your shooting precision. Because of that, your best 1-6x scope must incorporate parallax adjustment if you want to nail targets times and again. Fortunately, such a feature is available on most units nowadays.   

To tell if your scope is currently experiencing parallax, you should set the parallax adjustment to be as close as possible to the shooting range. Next, you need to aim down sight while adjusting the position of your eye steadily. After that, quickly focus on the reticle of the rifle scope relative to the target. In the case you notice that the scope reticle move as your eye moves, you are having a parallax issue.       

Fixing the parallax involve manipulating the parallax adjustment turret until the reticle finally stays put. In most of the case, it’s widely advised that you move your eye a bit to the left and see how things turn out. If the reticle of the scope moves to the left of the target, increase the distance on the parallax adjustment. On the other hand, if the reticle of the scope moves to the right of the target, decrease the distance on the parallax adjustment.

Last Updated on December 29, 2020

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