2020 New Optics Guide: Low-Power Variable Optics

Lots of folks just bought new firearms during both the COVID-19 pandemic and recent riotous social unrest. Many of those guns need (or at least should have) an optic mounted. No matter your firearm, budget, intended use or requirements, we’ve got a newly introduced optic for you, particularly if you're interested in a low-power, variable style of optic. Read on to learn about your options!

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Crimson Trace | CTL-5108
With a significant 34-mm-diameter main tube, first-focal-plane reticle and zero-reset turrets, Crimson Trace’s new CTL-5108 expands the range of the traditional low-power, variable optic.

Magnification: 1-8X
Objective Lens Diameter: 28 mm
Reticle: SR1-MIL
Length: 10.9 inches
Weight: 23.9 ounces
MSRP: $1,499
(800) 422-2406; crimsontrace.com

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EOTech | Vudu 1-8X 
This low-power, variable optic is trim, light and useful. EOTech’s new Vudu 1-8X scope offers a daylight-visible dot and ballistic-drop compensating reticle with dedicated subtensions for a multiplicity of options.

Magnification: 1-8X
Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
Reticle: Quad BDC with daylight-visible dot
Length: 10.6 inches
Weight: 21.3 ounces
MSRP: $1,399
(888) 368-4556; eotechinc.com

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German Precision Optics | Passion 5X 1-5x24i
With features like the GPObright lens coating and Passiondrop hydrophobic exterior lens coating, this scope promises bright, clear images and easy aiming when mounted on your carbine. 

Magnification: 1-5X
Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
Reticle: G4i
Length: 10.6 inches
Weight: 19.4 ounces
MSRP: $879.99
(844) 692-4667; gpo-usa.com

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Kahles | K18i 1-8x24i 3GR
Optimized for IPSC and 3-gun matches, the K18i allows for a wide field-of-view. A Max Light function provides for extreme backlight situations and integrated throw levers can be adjusted in two sizes, giving the ability to operate in all elements. 

Magnification: 1-8X
Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
Reticle: 3GR
Length: 11.8 inches
Weight: 19.6 ounces
MSRP: $2,777
(800) 426-3089; kahles.at/us

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Leupold | VX-Freedom 1.5-4x20 AR
Part of the VX-Freedom line, the 1.5-4x20 AR is tailored to the AR platform and is extremely affordable for a Leupold scope. It has a 1-inch main tube and .1-mil click adjustments. The VX-Freedom incorporates Leupold’s Twilight Light Management System and is waterproof and fogproof.

Magnification: 1.5-4X
Objective Lens Diameter: 20 mm
Reticle: AR Ballistic reticle
Length: 9.35 inches
Weight: 9.6 ounces
MSRP: $324.99
(800) 538-7653; leupold.com

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Steiner | M8Xi IFS
Combining a variable-power optic with intelligent-firing-solution capability, this optic provides real-time targeting data such as cant, wind speed and direction, windage and elevation settings and target distance on a customizable heads-up display.

Magnification: 1-8X
Objective Lens Diameter: 56 mm
Reticle: DMR8i
Length: 10.8 inches
Weight: 31.7 ounces
MSRP: $7,199.99
(888) 550-6255; steiner-optics.com

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Sun Optics | Mantis
With an illuminated BDC reticle and a magnification range up to 6X, Sun Optics’ Mantis helps you squeeze the most performance from your MSR. Close- and intermediate-range targets become easy pickings. Best off all, at less than $200, you can buy more ammunition.

Magnification: 1-6X
Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
Reticle: BDC
Length: 11.5 inches
Weight: 18.3 ounces
MSRP: $249.99
(817) 783-6001; sousaoptics.com

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Trijicon | Ascent 1-4X24
Created for the AR platform, the Ascent is lightweight, yet offers military-grade ruggedness. Its multi-coated lenses deliver edge-to-edge clarity, quickly achieved with the easy-focus eyepiece. An extra-wide field-of-view and uncluttered reticle aid in fast, efficient scanning of your surroundings.

Magnification: 1-4X
Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
Reticle: BDC with Target Holds
Length: 10.4 inches
Weight: 15.9 ounces
MSRP: $650
(800) 338-0563; trijicon.com

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TruGlo | Omnia 1-8x24
Joining the Omnia line is the second-focal-plane 1-8x24 mm. It features a Quick-Zoom lever for rapid magnification adjustment and a one-piece Picatinny rail mount. The etched and illuminated reticle provides multiple aiming options without clutter and bullet-drop compensation out to 600 yards. 

Magnification: 1-8X
Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
Reticle: All Purpose Tactical
Length: 14.1 inches
Weight: 26 ounces
MSRP: $447.99
(888) 887-8456; truglo.com

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Vortex Optics | Razor Gen3
Two first-focal-plane reticle options for accurate ranging and compensation for holdover/under and wind drift make the Razor Gen3 a solid option for shooters seeking an optic (with a 10X magnification range) to engage targets at a variety of distances.

Magnification: 1-10X
Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
Reticle: EBR-9 (MOA); EBR-9 (MRAD)
Length: 10.1 inches
Weight: 21.5 ounces
MSRP: $2,899.99
(800) 426-0048; vortexoptics.com

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