For several decades, law enforcement officers working the streets were equipped with a handgun. Some, but not all had a shotgun as a backup. Carbine-style rifles and long guns were reserved for SWAT Teams and other specialty units.
If a situation warranted these types of rifles, then the office had to make a call to request one of the SWAT Teams and then wait for the response. Law enforcement leadership never saw the need to equip patrol officers with rifles. That was until February 28th of 1997.
On the morning of February 28th, 1997, two heavily armed bank robbers robbed a bank in Northern Hollywood. The responding officers confronted the two men which resulted in a 44-minute gunfight with several wounded law enforcement officers.
The responding officers carried 9mm handguns and 12-gauge shotguns as a secondary option. Both weapon platforms were ineffective against the body armor worn by the bank robbers and at the distance, they were engaging during the gunfight.
The two bank robbers wore body armor and were armed with semi-auto rifles. Some of those rifles had been converted to full auto as well. Needless to say, the responding police officers were outgunned.
That incident was a turning point for law enforcement weaponry and tactics. They realized the need to better equip patrol officers and allow them to carry rifles. Today rifles are commonplace for patrol officers.
With the increased use of rifles by law enforcement officers, there comes a need to modernize them with better optics to make them more effective and able to adapt to different situations on the fly.
There are many optics on the market and choosing the right one is essential when you depend on that rifle every day you’re on duty. Enter the LPVO (Low Power Variable Optic).
(Photo: Clandestine Media Group)
What is an LPVO Scope
What does LPVO stand for? LPVO stands for low-powered variable optic. It refers to a magnified optic that starts at a 1x setting and then varies to a higher setting of 4x, 6x, or 8x depending on the manufacturer of the optic. In the past, scoped rifles were reserved for designated marksmen or trained snipers.
The advent of a true 1x scope with a daytime visible reticle has truly changed the game. That technology has merged the red dot sights with a traditional scope design which resulted in the creation of the LPVO optic.
Looking at traditional RDS (red dot sight) sights, they are generally going to come in with a price point of around $300 depending on the manufacturer.
The advantage is that you have a single plane of reference for aiming. The red dot sight also cuts down on training time and increases accuracy and speed. The disadvantage of the red dot sight is that if there is any positive identification needed you can’t really do that past what the naked eye can accurately identify.
By adding magnification in the form of an LPVO to the same gun, you’re now able to positively identify and engage threats out to 400-600 yards depending on the shooter’s skill.
The Crimson Trace Hardline Pro 1-6×24 is one of the best LPVO Scope buys on the market right now. It’s a true daytime visible reticle, true 1 power, and goes up to 6 power. For a sub $1000 optic, the platform really is hard to beat.
Crimson Trace also went with a first focal plane design allowing for more consistent range estimation through the different magnification settings.
First focal plane means that when you adjust the magnification, the reticle is going to change size as the magnification changes.
As a result, if you’re using your reticle for range estimation, no matter the magnification, your range estimation is going to be true.
The Crimson Trace Hardline Pro LPVO uses an illuminated custom competition reticle taking the guesswork out of range estimation.
Moving Forward With the LPVO
With an LPVO, law enforcement agencies can transform a stock AR-15 into a hybrid carbine capable of close CQB work at 1x and then dial up the magnification to 6x for mid-range engagements out to 500 yards.
This gives law enforcement the ability to go from 1x to 6x on the fly without having to change guns or optics.
Using lessons learned from previous fights and acknowledging the evolution of weaponry will keep law enforcement as effective as possible moving forward.
From kicking in doors to mid-range hostage situations, the Crimson Trace Hardline Pro 1-6×24 LPVO has you covered.
Best Budget LPVO
Still would like to get into an LPVO but don’t have the funds for a higher-end option? The good news is we have a quality budget option for you to consider.
The Primary Arms Gen III 1-6×24 second focal plane is a proven performer trusted by thousands of shooters to deliver consistent performance.
This tough LPVO optic features both red and green reticle illumination, a quick-focus eyepiece, and finger-adjustable turrets covered by turret caps. The second focal plane construction keeps the reticle the same size at all magnifications for quick sight acquisition in all conditions.
With the high-quality construction, a solid brand reputation, and a sub $300 price this LPVO is likely the best budget LPVO currently on the market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best LPVO for an AR 10?
One highly recommended LPVO for an AR 10 is the Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen III 1-10×24. This optic offers a versatile magnification range, allowing you to transition smoothly between close-quarters engagements and longer-range shots. The Razor HD Gen III provides exceptional optical clarity, ensuring a crisp and clear sight picture.
Another notable LPVO choice is the Trijicon AccuPoint 1-6×24. This optic combines a bright illuminated reticle with a high-quality glass lens, enabling fast target acquisition and enhanced accuracy. The AccuPoint series is known for its durability and reliability, making it a popular choice among AR 10 enthusiasts.
For those seeking a budget-friendly option without compromising performance, the Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24 is an excellent choice. It offers a clear and bright reticle, solid construction, and reliable performance at a more affordable price point.
What magnification is best for LPVO?
For close-quarters engagements and rapid target acquisition, a lower magnification setting such as 1x or 2x is often preferred. At these lower levels, the LPVO essentially functions like a red dot sight, offering a wide field of view and facilitating quick target transitions.
On the other hand, if you anticipate engaging targets at longer distances or require more precise aiming, higher magnification settings become more advantageous. LPVOs typically offer magnifications ranging from 3x to 10x or even higher. A higher magnification allows for better target identification and finer aim at extended ranges.
What is the best LPVO for an AR-15 pistol?
Vortex Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6×24: This LPVO offers a versatile magnification range, allowing seamless transitions between close-quarters and mid-range engagements. With exceptional optical clarity and durable construction, the Razor HD Gen II-E ensures a crisp sight picture and reliable performance.
The Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24 is a budget-friendly option without compromising performance and is the best all-around LPVO for most people. With a clear reticle, solid construction, and reliable functionality, the SLx 1-6×24 is a popular choice among AR-15 pistol enthusiasts seeking a cost-effective LPVO solution.
How far is a LPVO scope good for?
LPVO scopes are an excellent option for individuals seeking a versatile solution that caters to both faster close-up shooting and engaging targets at mid-range distances of around 600 yards. While a red dot sight is more suitable for close-quarters combat (CQB) scenarios and a high-power scope excels in precision shooting, neither can offer the combined capabilities of an LPVO.
LPVO scopes bridge the gap between these two extremes, providing the flexibility to swiftly acquire targets in close-quarters situations while also enabling accurate engagements at moderate distances. This makes them an ideal choice for shooters who desire a single optic capable of performing effectively in various shooting scenarios.
Conclusion
Selecting the best LPVO scope for law enforcement requires careful consideration of specific factors that align with the unique needs and demands of the profession. Law enforcement officers require a versatile optic that can adapt to various scenarios, offering both close-quarters engagement capabilities and the ability to engage targets at extended ranges.
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24 multi-role optic emerges as one of the top choices for law enforcement LPVO scopes. Its wide magnification range, exceptional optical clarity, and rugged construction make it a reliable companion for officers in the field. The Viper’s ability to quickly transition between 1x for CQB situations and 6x for mid-range engagements provides officers with the flexibility needed in dynamic environments.
Additionally, the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24 offers a bright and precise reticle, ensuring accurate target acquisition even in low-light conditions. Its durability and reliability make it well-suited for law enforcement operations, with the confidence that it can withstand the rigors of daily use.
Law enforcement agencies can trust the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24 LPVO scope to enhance their effectiveness, improve situational awareness, and provide the versatility required for a wide range of law enforcement missions. By equipping officers with this top-tier LPVO scope, agencies can ensure that their personnel are equipped with a cutting-edge optic that meets the demands of their critical work.
Stay Tuned to the RE Factor Tactical Blog and be part of this all VETERAN-run website. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for exclusive content and deals.
Check out our DAILY DEALS page for industry deals and discounts.
Leave a Reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *