The Best 1-8 Scope — 7 Reviews

One of the reasons you should choose to mount the best 1-8x scope on your gun is because it is faster and easier to look through a scope at the target than to have to line up the front and the rear sights.

Another reason is that optics generally magnify the target, making it easier to shoot accurately at exaggerated distances.

How do you find the best 1-8 scope in today’s market? It will not be a difficult proposition for you because I have researched and found the best models on your behalf.

How resourceful any of the products I have reviewed will be for you depends entirely on your application and budget.

We recommend the Shepherd Rugged 1-8×24 R-MIL — a scope that is American-made and engineered to deliver the ultimate best target acquisition. Each feature puts you locked onto the target.

The Best 1-8x Scopes Are:

ProductDetails
1. Shepherd Rugged 1-8x24 R-MIL Scope

  • Mil Hash reticle with ranging feature (RFP)
  • 1-8x magnification adjustment
  • Oversized indexable locking turrets
  • Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
  • Type III hard anodizing finish
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2. Primary Arms SLX 1-8x24mm SFP Scope

  • 1-8x magnification adjustment
  • ACSS 5.56 / 5.45 / .308 reticle
  • 1/2 MOA click value
  • Red illuminated with eleven brightness settings
  • Lead dots are effective at 100 to 300 yards
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3. Leapers Inc UTG 1-8x28 mm Scope

  • 1-8x magnification adjustment
  • Features etched glass reticle
  • 34 mm high profile offset ring
  • EZ-TAP illumination enhancing system
  • Multi-emerald coated lenses
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4. Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm Scope

  • 1-8x magnification adjustment
  • Glass etched illuminated reticle
  • Fully multi-coated platform
  • Single-piece tube that maximizes alignment
  • Fast focus eyepiece
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5. Trijicon AccuPower 1-8x28mm Scope

  • Variable powered magnification (1-8x)
  • First focal plane reticle
  • Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
  • LED illuminated reticle
  • Eleven brightness settings for improved performance
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6. Atibal XP8 1-8x24mm SFP Scope

  • Diamond tactical reticle (DTR)
  • Second focal plane
  • Fully multi-coated lens
  • Eleven brightness settings
  • Low profile turrets for effective adjustments
  • Eleven brightness settings for improved performance
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7. Visionking Optics 1-8x24 Long Eye Relief Scope

  • Long eye relief
  • 1-8x magnification adjustment
  • Etched reticle
  • Fully multi-coated optics coating
  • Impressively long focus range
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1. Shepherd Rugged 1-8×24 R-MIL Scope — Overall Best 1-8x Scope

Shepherd Scopes Series 1-8x24 R-MIL, Black Anodized, RS0011

Introducing the best 1-8 scope with BDC (RFP) reticle, the Shepherd Rugged 1-8×24 R-MIL Scope. One of the fastest and most reliable optics on the market.

Specs

  • Mil Hash reticle with ranging feature (RFP)
  • 1-8x magnification adjustment
  • Oversized indexable locking turrets
  • Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
  • Type III hard anodizing finish

This scope is fitted with the R-MIL reticle, which combines MIL hash marks with passive range finding for approximating holdover up to twelve milliradians.

It is easy to make accurate, quick shots with known ballistics thanks to the passive rangefinder. This feature also removes any guesswork when shooting at the range or hunting.

I really appreciate the tactical lockable turrets, which combine the best features of capped and tactical turrets. They boost easy and quick adjustments.

But the thing is, the water-resistance of the scope is merely three meters, and that’s not enough, considering the price of the optics.

Pros

  • Passive range finding feature allows for quick target acquisition
  • Daylight is super bright with either red or green illumination
  • Tactical locking turrets are suitable for stalking and hunting
  • Longer eye relief provides a wider field of view
  • Super durable body that can withstand harsh weather conditions

Cons

  • Doesn’t have the most reliable water resistance capability

Conclusion

No matter what environment or weather condition you are shooting in, the Shepherd Rugged 1-8×24 R-MIL Scope is engineered for accurate target acquisition.

Overall Rating: 5

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2. Primary Arms SLX 1-8x24mm SFP Scope — Best 1-8 Scope for the Money

Primary Arms SLX 3-18x50mm FFP Rifle Scope - Illuminated Athena BPR MIL Reticle

The Primary Arms SLX may not be one of the most expensive models, but one of the biggest reasons why it is our overall best choice is the ACSS reticle.

Specs

  • 1-8x magnification adjustment
  • ACSS 5.56 / 5.45 / .308 reticle
  • 1/2 MOA click value
  • Red illuminated with eleven brightness settings
  • Lead dots are effective at 100 to 300 yards

This scope is equipped with the advanced combined sighting system (ACSS), which is an impressive innovation in reticle engineering.

The ACSS reticle includes bullet drop compensation as well as range estimation, leads, moving targets, and wind holds in one easy to use scope system.

The brand has included instructions, explaining how to zero, using different barrel lengths. They range from 14-1/2-inch to 20-inch.

The range estimation of this scope is set for eighteen inches (average center mass). You can also use the ranging portion for small game and predator hunting.

If you are aiming at a moving target, you can use the leads set for 90-degree angle at 8.6 average target speed. But the leads are most effective at 100 to 300 yards.

My only issue with this scope is that the reticle doesn’t seem to work with a .300 win mag bolt gun. I had to buy a standard mil-dot reticle.

It did not perform impressively when I tried shooting accurately over 2 MOA of parallax at low magnification ranges.

Pros

  • Optics produce a clear, bright image below 3x
  • Easy to vertically range targets with the ACSS reticle
  • Turrets are not only capped, but also easily accessed
  • Elevation and wind adjustments are, easy, accurate, and repeatable
  • Good light transmission and superior color contrast

Cons

  • May not perform accurately beyond 2 MOA
  • Scope is slightly heavy

Conclusion

It is the best optic for the money. The ACSS reticle technology is the best you could wish for and the clarity is simply amazing.

Overall Rating: 4.7

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3. Leapers Inc UTG 1-8×28 mm Scope — Best Etched Reticle Design

Leupold VX-R 1.5-5x33mm Riflescope, FireDot Duplex Reticle, Black

Meet the Leapers Inc UTG 1-8x28mm Scope, the brand’s most innovative T8 optics with 8x zoom superior technology.

Specs

  • 1-8x magnification adjustment
  • Features etched glass reticle
  • 34 mm high profile offset ring
  • EZ-TAP illumination enhancing system
  • Multi-emerald coated lenses

This scope is designed on a true strength platform that is nitrogen filled and completely sealed, which is great because it makes the optics rainproof, fog-proof, and shockproof.

It comes equipped with etched glass mil-dot reticle, which is more precise and allows for easy customization of bullet drop compensators and hash marks.

The etched reticle is also exceptionally durable compared to other types of reticle, meaning it will not break, not unless you break the glass.

It has full color reticle mode, featuring thirty-six different color choices, which boost optimal visibility and brightness in all environments.

The optics have variable power, which means the magnification is adjustable and you get increased versatility and usefulness.

But… the one I received had a blurry glass. I guess the brand shipped a used product, but I requested a replacement and they sent a new one.

Pros

  • Optical quality is great with usable eye box
  • Did hold on zero for approximately five hundred rounds
  • Very durable etched glass reticle
  • EZ-TAP illumination enhancing system works great in all light conditions
  • Nitrogen filled and sealed design is ideal in harsh weather conditions

Cons

  • Possible to receive a model with defective glass
  • May be challenging to get the dot back to red

Conclusion

This scope is well-made and just perfect for the price. You just have to make sure that you don’t receive a model with defective parts.

Overall Rating: 4.5

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4. Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm Scope — Best Fully Multi-Coated Lens

Vortex Optics SPARC Red Dot Sight Gen II - 2 MOA Dot (SPC-AR2)

Introducing one of the best 1-8 scopes for your AR rifle, the Vortex Optics Strike Eagle. A scope that is truly engineered for the hunt.

Specs

  • 1-8x magnification adjustment
  • Glass etched illuminated reticle
  • Fully multi-coated platform
  • Single-piece tube that maximizes alignment
  • Fast focus eyepiece

With a true 1 power, you can quickly strike in close quarters setups or transition to an eighth power to nail your targets at extended ranges.

The design features fully multi-coated lenses, which are great because they display sharp resolution with optimal low-light performance.

It comes with glass etched BDC reticle that subtends with popular 556 cartridges and the 1 MOA center dot with surrounding halo, which boosts quick target acquisition.

There is a side illumination knob that switches between eleven levels of brightness to accommodate various light conditions.

I really appreciate the ample eye relief, which puts you in an optimal shooting position and the fast-focus eyepiece maintains a tack-sharp reticle image.

However, I found that the etched glass wasn’t completely clear. I also had poor customer service from the seller, I think it’s much better to buy directly from the manufacturer.

Pros

  • Excellent shooting from point black to a 1/4-mile with .308 or .223
  • Fully multi-coated lenses perform exceptionally in low-light
  • Nitrogen purged design is fog-proof, shockproof, and waterproof
  • Superior eye relief for optimal shooting positioning
  • Maintains reliability, accuracy, and repeatable performance

Cons

  • It is a little bit heavy
  • Possible to receive optics with blurry glass

Conclusion

This is a high-quality, high-performance scope in the hunting fields and at the range with minimum flaws.

Overall Rating: 4.6

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5. Trijicon AccuPower 1-8x28mm Scope — Best Front Focal Plane Design

Trijicon ACOG 4 X 32 Scope Dual Illuminated Chevron .223 Ballistic Reticle, Red

Introducing the Trijicon, the best 1×8 scope from the AccuPower family. This is a versatile first focal plane, variable powered optics with an LED illuminated reticle.

Specs

  • Variable powered magnification (1-8x)
  • First focal plane reticle
  • Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
  • LED illuminated reticle
  • Eleven brightness settings for improved performance

It features a true 1 power through 8 power magnification, which is great because it causes zero optical distortion on the lowest settings for optimal speed in target acquisition.

Magnification changes are quick and easy with the integrated zoom ring knob with an optional zoom ring extender.

To ensure shot after shot accuracy, Trijicon engineered this scope with precise windage and elevation adjustments with resettable locking turrets.

Another great feature is the improved illumination control with eleven brightness settings with an off between each setting, which help boost visibility in different light conditions.

But I have to say I’m not completely happy with it, as it could not maintain zero as I had hoped for. Also, it does not have bullet drop compensation and the customer support was not satisfying for me.

Pros

  • Essentially true 1 power magnification
  • Integrated glass is crystal clear and crisp
  • Resettable locking turrets allow for easy adjustments
  • Multiple brightness settings for improved performance in low-light
  • Very durable construction that will not break easily

Cons

  • May not be easy to maintain zero
  • No bullet drop compensation

Conclusion

Good quality for the money, considering the heavy-duty construction and the many resourceful features it comes with.

Overall Rating: 4.4

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6. Atibal XP8 1-8x24mm SFP Scope — Best Diamond Reticle Design

Atibal XP8 1-8x24 SFP

Introducing the best 1×8 scope with a diamond tactical reticle, the Atibal XP8 1-8x24mm SFP Scope.

Specs

  • Diamond tactical reticle (DTR)
  • Second focal plane
  • Fully multi-coated lens
  • Eleven brightness settings
  • Low profile turrets for effective adjustments

This model uses the diamond tactical reticle with a .5 minute of angle, which is great because it allows you to quickly and easily obtain your target.

The 30 mm tube is shockproof, shrugging off recoil and other impacts. It is also nitrogen purged, making it ideal for eliminating internal fogging.

It features a fully multi-coated lens with a number of anti-reflective coatings, which help improve light transmission and increases the durability of the glass.

Another great feature is the removable sway lever, which is impressive because it allows you to add some character to the scope by choosing the most convenient sway lever replacement.

But like the previous scope reviewed, the item I got didn’t hold zero very well and the red dot wasn’t as impressive as I had imagined during the day.

Pros

  • DTR reticle is ultra-bright, clear, sharp, and extremely fast
  • Has an exceptional eye relief adjustment
  • Butter smooth to turn magnification knob
  • Removable sway lever for increased versatility
  • Windage and elevation adjustment is a breeze with low profile turrets

Cons

  • May not be able to hold zero
  • Some sellers don’t provide mounting hardware

Conclusion

It is a lightweight, compact scope that has a very good price point. It also has very ergonomic features that you would certainly like after shooting a few rounds.

Overall Rating: 4.4

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7. Visionking Optics 1-8×24 Long Eye Relief Scope — Most Versatile Turret Illuminated Dot

 

Visionking Optics 1-8x24 Long Eye Relief Rifle Scope 1/10 MIL Low Profile Turret Illuminated Dot

You can achieve a new range of versatility using the Visionking Optics with its remarkably long eye relief and etched reticle.

Specs

  • Long eye relief
  • 1-8x magnification adjustment
  • Etched reticle
  • Fully multi-coated optics coating
  • Impressively long focus range

This model comes with a high performing etched reticle, which does not require any wire components and it is more accurate compared to wire reticles.

It is fitted with fully multi-coated optics coating, which is great because this feature helps to improve light transmission while reducing reflection and glare.

I really appreciate the long eye relief, which is a good feature when shooting rifles with larger cartridges and low magnification.

I have to warn you though that it is a product made from China; so, I didn’t get any warranty. It also takes time to return a product with design flaws.

Pros

  • Performance of the reticle is reliable
  • Reduced reflection and glare enhances light transmission
  • Turrets allow for quick tactical adjustments
  • Rugged design is fog-proof and waterproof
  • Suitable when shooting larger weapons

Cons

  • No warranty information is provided
  • Poor customer support

Conclusion

This is a China-made product, which performs pretty well, but you should not overestimate its performance at longer ranges.

Overall Rating: 4.0

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Buying Guide

There is one main decision you have to make when shopping for a 1-8 scope, which is deciding how you will use the scope.

This will determine the type, magnification, and other features you should look for when making your choice. Here is a roundup of the things I considered during my search.

First Focal or Second Focal Plane

If you have ever looked through a scope, then you are familiar with a second focal plane (SFP) scope. When looking through the scope, you’ll notice that the reticle takes up most of the target area.

When you increase magnification, the reticle stays the same size throughout the magnification adjustment process, even though it looks like your target is getting closer.

What I like most about this type of optics is that it is easy for my eye to focus on the target. Also, the reticle is clean without many hash marks or dots.

Second focal plane scopes are highly effective for hunting, which is why the majority of hunting scopes on today’s market are SFP-based.

The main disadvantage of SFP reticle is that if you happen to have trajectory compensation in your reticle design. Those holdover values are only going to be accurate in one magnification setting.

Now, a front or first focal plane (FFP) design does the opposite of SFP. It puts the reticle in front of the magnification adjustment.

So, now when you grow or shrink your magnification, not only will your target size get bigger or smaller. Your reticle size will also get bigger or smaller in the same exact way.

The main benefit is that those trajectory compensation marks are now accurate on any magnification.

If a deer pops up and you were at a low power setting, but you want to take that shot really fast you will still be able to maintain accuracy with ease.

You don’t have to adjust your scope to high-power to be sure that you are going to hit the target with precision.

The only disadvantage of the front plane reticle is that sometimes it can be really hard to see fine detail marks in the reticle when changing magnification.

So, if you have any issues with your eyes or you can’t pinpoint fine details, then the first focal plane is not the ideal choice for you.

Type of Reticles to Choose

There are quite a few types of reticles you can consider for your 1-8 scope, but the most popular ones are: ACSS, Etched Glass, and DTR.

There are a number of questions you will have to ask yourself in order to be able to select the most effective reticle, such as:

  • What resolution do you need?
  • Is it a must for it to have a floating dot?
  • Do you need a well-illuminated reticle?
  • Do you want an open or closed center type?

At the very least, your 1-8 scope reticle should be weatherproof and fog-proof. Beware, not all scope designs are engineered to withstand extreme weather conditions, such as fog or heat.

The best reticle choice should provide you with vital information, which you can easily decipher, such as the ideal bullet drop compensation.

Overall, choose a reticle design that can offer you the following:

  • Automatic range estimation (if possible)
  • Moving target leads
  • Wind hold dots
  • Bullet drop compensation
  • Horseshoe or chevron center
  • Durable and long-lasting design

Final Words

Our overall best choice for this roundup is the Shepherd Rugged 1-8×24 R-MIL Scope. A model that comes with high-performing MIL Hash reticle, precision turrets, and a durable design.

The Shepherd Rugged will be super bright during the day irrespective of whether you are using green or red illumination.

This scope is also filled with nitrogen gas, which guarantees optimal results by ensuring that the scope is always waterproof and fog-proof.

In your final buying decision, make sure you choose the ideal platform between front or first focal plane and second focal plane, especially if you have issues with your sight.

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