The Best 1-4x Scopes Of 2018 – Reviews and Buying Guide

Welcome to our buying guide for the Best 1-4x Scopes on the Market today…

We throw our full weight behind your goal of becoming a fast and furious. But to achieve that, you know you have to work on your aiming, right?

And to excel on your aiming, you have to invest in a great riflescope.

That being said, the 1-4x model is one of the best riflescopes for shooters who wish to improve their shooting. It gives you a magnified target for easy, fast shooting- minus the expense, complexity, and size of the current high powered scopes.

However, your 1-4x scope doesn’t have to match with that of your friend.

Over the past week, I dedicated most of my hours in researching the TEN top-rated 1-4x scopes that you can use to perfect your shooting game.

And I’m glad to tell you this: the list is finally here!

As usual, I start with some basics about this shooter's scope…

What's a 1-4x Scope?

I’m assuming this is not your first encounter with riflescopes, so you already know what they are.

If not. Let me give you a simple definition of a riflescope- it’s a device that you attach to your firearm to enhance you shooting precision and accuracy over longer distances- more than what a shooter will do with standard iron sight.

From this definition, it’d make sense that a 1-4x scope allows you to enjoy a magnification of your target up to magnification power of 4x. Its primary goal is to give you a speed-up close and precision when you want to shoot at objects far from you- say that big game you’re targeting in your hunting zone.

If you adjust it to its lowest magnification power- 1x- it will offer you an incredibly large field of view plus a quite forgiving “eye box.”

And when you use its maximum power- 4x- it gives you superior capabilities of nailing targets as far as 500 yards (or more!).

Like all the modern riflescopes, this one too allows you to adjust (and compensate for) environmental factors that might limit your shooting capabilities- like windage, bullet drop, and elevation.

By the way, more important details your need to know about the 1-4x shooter's scope are coming up after the ten scopes review below:

Our Best 1-4x Scope Reviews:

1. Bushnell Optics 1-4x 24mm Throw Down PCL, FFP Illuminated BTR (AR 223):

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The Bushnell Optics 1-4x 24mm manufacturer invests heavily in rugged reliability, optical precision, and strong performance to give you one badass 1-4x scope that spoils your tactical rifle with maximum accuracy in every tactical scenario.

The scope offers you an illuminated ballistically calibrated reticle – fully optimized for use with the 5.56 rounds. Because of this feature, the reticle delivers each round with a peerless accuracy! And since the first focal plane first reticle comes fully illuminated, its capable of giving you an outstanding performance in the low-lit conditions, so you can focus on what really matters- your target.

Don’t forget that it comes with fully multicoated optics that promotes incredible brightness for even more accurate and reliable shooting precision.

Using this scope is the easiest part… The throw down PCL lever allows you to make superfast power changes to suit your shooting conditions. And you don’t have to worry about different weather elements affecting the functionality of your scope. This is because the scope comes nitrogen purged to ensure moisture does not get its way into it. It’s also O-ring sealed to prevent entry of dust and water- so you can comfortably use it in the rainy conditions.

About the overall construction, this scope is made from superior quality aluminum alloy with an anodized finish and sealing to make it 100% scratchproof, rustproof, and a beautiful complement to your tactical firearm.

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2. Vortex Viper PST 1 - 4x24mm Riflescope:

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Vortex, a trusted name in the riflescopes industry, presents you with a highly durable, A+ performance Viper PST 1 - 4x24mm Riflescope to meet your shooting needs without frustrating your bank account. It comes with top-tier features that are way above its price tag; making you’re getting a real deal here, no doubt!

Performance wise, the Viper PST 1 - 4x24mm Riflescope is just unbeatable! This has been made possible by some unique features like the matching turrets and reticle measurements that ensure you enjoy those accurate, quick dialing shots you only experience in your dream world. Its 30mm tube- machine-precisioned from aircraft-grade aluminum- offers you ample windage as well as elevation adjustment, to ensure that nothing stands in your path to the professional shooting.

For such a great optics job, we give the manufacturer of this scope 5/5! I mean, this is one scope that will provide you with Optical indexed lenses that let you view ultra-sharp images (edge-to-edge), even under full ranging!

The manufacturer even uses low dispersion (XD) glass in the optics to increase the resolution and color fidelity of your images, to give you even crisper and sharper images. On top of all this, the optics come fully multicoated to increase light transmission and maximize the brightness of your images!

Apart from the rigid, durable aluminum grade metal construction, this scope also comes with an O-ring seal to make it waterproof and suitable for use in all weather conditions. Besides, the tube is argon-charged to prevent internal fogging, shockproof and features a hard anodized finish to make it rustproof and scratchproof.

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3. Bushnell AR Optics Drop Zone-223 Reticle Riflescope:

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The Bushnell AR Optics Drop Zone-223 Reticle Riflescope enjoys a never-ending demand in the riflescope arena due to its wide variety of incredible features. This comes from the fact that Bushnell ensures all their scopes are made of high-quality materials, have a rugged durability, optical precision, and uncompromising performance before injecting them into the market.

The device comes with a fast-focus eyepiece that delivers maximum accuracy and reliability. Moreover, it comes with an outstanding close-quarter accuracy plus a Drop Zone 223 BDC reticle that facilitates mid-range precision.

Additionally, the BDC reticle comes with 55-62 grain 223 REM/5.556 loads calibrations- making it the ideal scope for reaching out to your targets as far as they may be. In fact, this scope zeroes out at 100 yards and bots of aiming points out to 500plus yards!

For pinpoint-precise adjustments, this scope comes with target turrets.

And because of the multicoated optics, you’ll get incredibly brightness while enjoying the maximum reliability, accuracy due with the fast focus eyepiece.

The scope also ranks among the most durable models, given that it’s constructed from the durable aluminum alloy, anodized finish, and it’s sealed to prevent elements from interacting with its internal structure.

It’s also dustproof, scratchproof, and waterproof- and suitable for use in all environments.

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For all your hunting, distance shooting, and tactical needs, the Barska 1-4x28 IR Hunting Scope is your guy! It’s a compact sized riflescope- measures 10” and weighs 1 pound only- and pocket-friendly scope that enjoys overwhelming usage from hunters across the states.

As one of the top 1-4x scopes, it means that you can use it with the iron sight at magnification power 1 and when you turn it to magnification power 4, your target only gets clear and much closer. Because you can quickly lock the external target turrets, you don’t have to worry about windage and elevation movements that might affect your aiming efforts.

It’s also interesting to note that this device can be used with a broad range of rifles. You can use it alongside the iron sight of your gun. It comes with nitrogen purged tube and O-ring sealed, meaning that you can use it in either sunny, rainy or foggy weather conditions without any challenges.

Most users have expressed their joy using the scope’s Mil Dot (glass-etched) given its high flexibility- it illuminates from black to red- for low light situations- to green- for daylight targeting.

Other convenient features you’ll love in this scope include the flip-up scope covers and the 1” dual cantilever ring scope mount. Plus the batteries required to operate it comes included in the package.

Once you buy this produce, you become eligible for a limited lifetime warranty (an assurance that its build to last).

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If you’ve ever used Vortex Optics scopes before, you know they’re one of the best brands in this industry. If you’ve not used their products, you’ve got to try the Vortex Optics Crossfire II 1-4x24mm Riflescope today, and you’ll be awed by its exceptional performance.

It comes with a 30mm black finished tube, V-Brite Reticle, and fully multicoated lenses that ensure better transmission of light.

The long eye relief and fast focus eyepiece team up with the MOA turrets to offers you a beautifully clear 1-4x scope, ready to handle the toughest tactical tasks you’ve in mind. It comes integrated with Illuminated Center Dot that ensures precise aiming point, even when working in low-lit conditions.

Its single piece 30mm tube comes fully aligned for improved accuracy and helps you achieve optimal visual performance.

Because it features a solid aircraft grade aluminum material construction, you’ll undoubtedly enjoy maximum firmness and sturdiness in this scope.

The scope makes a perfect pick for hunters, competitive shooters, and tactical users.

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Burris are known for creating riflescopes that make an impact in your shooting life at a reasonable price. The Burris 200437 MTAC 1-4 x 24 Illuminated Scope is the perfect choice for shooters looking for scopes with quality features without spending a lot of cash.

Made from the highest quality material, this scope is durable and ready for use in the toughest situations you can imagine. Its optics are coated with the HiLume which helps improve the resolution of images.

This means that you’ll be able to view your target game clearly. Because it an easily holds zero and comes with great eye relief, its performance only gets better.

It also presents you with a clear, crisp glass plus a generous eyebox. The lengthy tube increases its adjustability capabilities as well as strength.

It comes with a lifetime warranty and makes the best pick for all hunters on a tight budget.

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The Primary Arms 1-4X 24 Illuminated Scope offers you a generous 3.5-4.9 inches eye that depends on the magnification you’re working with. It features a duplex center dot reticle and optic that comes fully multicoated for maximum light transmission… plus its waterproof and for resistant for use in all weather conditions.

On the left side of the tube, you’ll encounter a brightness knob that perfectly illuminates the center dot with up to 12 brightness settings. It comes with 24mm objective lens and a 90’-23’ field of view (at about 100 yards) making it perfect for use in near and far targets.

It comes with turret caps cover- with 1 MOA per click elevation and windage knobs for increased versatility. In addition to this, it provides you with an adjustable ocular focus to ensure the reticle is optimally sharp for your eyes.

Everything in this device is black finished to help reduce glare and light reflection. It comes with one year warranty, and is designed to give you exactly what you need to take your shooting to the stars!

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Anytime you want to clean kill the big games or shoot at shorter distances, take the Accupoint 1.-4 X 24 Triangle Riflescope by you and thank me later.

Unlike all the other scopes we’ve discussed above, the Accupoint 1.-4 X 24 operates without batteries- eliminating the challenges associated with failure of batteries when you’re in the middle of a critical job.

Instead, the scope relies on its Trijicon Fiber Optics to automatically adjust the contrast and brightness level of the reticle, depending on the lighting conditions of your location. With the manual Brightness Override, you can quickly adjust the brightness of the Trijicon Aiming Point to suit your personal preferences.

You can count on the multi-coated lens to offer you superior light transmission, without any distortions. The quick eye focus gives you unsurpassed edge-to-edge optical clarity, while the long eye relief protects against the high-impact recoil from the larger caliber rifles.

Backed by a lifetime warranty against all the manufacturer defects, this scope is constructed from aircraft quality aluminum metal, hard anodized finish, nitrogen filled tube to make it suitable for use in all the weather and the toughest shooting conditions, for generations to come.

If you’re hunter, you will find the black matter finish an excellent way to reduce glare/light reflection, which could spook your target.

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The Vortex Viper PST 1-4x24 Riflescope also allows you to have a feel of the premium features of high-quality rifles without breaking your wallet. It will help you achieve faster and accurate shooting with its reticle and turret measurements.

It offers you optical indeed lenses which make your images look brighter and sharper- improving their overall clarity! The XD glass used in the scope construction plays the role of enhancing the resolution as well as increasing the light transmission with its multicoated lens.

The tube is made of aircraft grade aluminum which translates to exceptional durability. Besides, it’s a bit longer compared to other scopes- 30 mm length- to allow for wider adjustments and increased strength.

You won’t encounter internal fogging in this scope as it comes filled with the argon gas. Because of its O-ring sealed, it’s also resistant to water, debris, and dust. It's excellent eye relief means you can make adjustments without much hassle.

This scope is not only perfect for short range shooting but also for long range targets.

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The Trinity Force 1-4x28 is a great option for shooters looking to outfit the basic carbines, e.g. Ak47, or carbine variants of the AR 15. It’s a low-profile, lightweight scope whose slim 28mm objective lens keeps it low and compact. The scope is constructed from aircraft grade aluminum and comes with a cantilever scope mount for user convenience.

The scope offers you a quick release lock system that you can lock down tight by two throw levers.

The swift-adjustment locking turrets enable you to make fingertip and ½ MOA adjustments…and you can eventually lock the turrets to prevent unnecessary movements. The reticle comes etched in the optic’s glass to ensure it can handle the toughest jobs without developing any issues.

The Trinity Force 1-4x28 is the perfect deal for all your close range shooting needs. It’s ideal for use with all hunting or self-defense rifles, and even in the shooting competitions. Its unparalleled versatility makes it one of the best red dot scopes on the market today.

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What to Look for Before Buying a 1-4x Scope?

Make a mistake of shopping for a 1-4x scope without first arming yourself with the following buying guide, and you’ll be frustrated for the rest of your shooting life:

Factors to guide you into picking the perfect 1-4x scope:

1. Durability

Different scopes might look the same, but if you look closer, you’ll notice the difference. Some are made from cheap quality materials while others are constructed out of high-quality materials.

Aircraft grade is one of the high-quality materials used to construct premium 1-4x scopes. It enables the scope to survive the toughest of applications for many, many years.

2. Quality Glass

You’ll achieve the best shots, ONLY when your scope has the best scopes. And the best scopes are made using quality glass.

Does that make sense?

Of course yes…

Make sure you go for riflescopes with multi-coated lens and crystal clear glass that enables you to see every detail of your target.

3. Eye Relief

As you know, there are many calibers and rifles that you can use when hunting. And at the same time, you are aware that different scopes offer you different recoil levels.

With this in mind, ensure the rifle scope you pick comes with sufficient eye relief. Why? This will ensure you have enough clearance between your face and your gun.

While 3” is considered the best eye relief for you, I’d suggest that you go for a longer value- probably 4” or 5.”

Fail to consider the eye relief factor when buying your scope and you’ll learn it the hard way.

4. Illumination

I’m assuming that your hunt will hit it climax around the sunset when the deer are moving. That’s a period characterized by low lighting.

Therefore, ensure that the scope you wish to buy comes with sufficient illumination to help give you a better view, stay out for longer, and shoot more accurately.

Why 1-4x Scope?

Perhaps you not yet realized the Big Picture in using a 1-4x scope… and you’re wondering why you need to use it alongside your rifle.

If that’s you, allow you to discuss with you some facts that will change your view of the 1-4x scope…

First, it’s good to note that the 1-4x scope is referred to as optical sight since it performs its job more like a sight than a magnifying optic.

Its low magnification levels make it suitable for ranges out to around 300 yards. This makes them ideal for use with hunting rifles (used in woods, thick brushes) as well as tactical rifles. You might argue that your iron sighted rifle would do fine for such a range, but it’d be hard to argue against the magnification offered by this scope to improve your engagement with your target.

The low powered optical sight brings your target visually closer, without distorting it.

In simpler words, the scope gives you an option between the standard iron sights and high-powered, long-range riflescopes.

1-4x Scope vs. Red Dot with Magnifier

Watch this video for more details:

Before we weigh between these two devices, I’m assuming you’re planning at shorter distances only; otherwise, you won’t even be considering the red dot at all.

In our discussion below, I’ll list the pros and cons of each device to help you decide which one is right for your firearm…

i). 1-4x Riflescope

This is the older of the two, and have been time-tested to help you aim your gun accurately, without the need of iron sights.

ii). Red Dot

The red dot (or reflex sight) is a close range targeting device that involves superimposing the crosshair on a glass plane. It’s also used for targeting purpose.

When in doubt, I’d suggest that you go for the 1-4x scope as you’ll enjoy its versatility. If you want to shoot a target over 100 yards away, you’ve got to turn to the scope.

However, if you’re tailoring your rifle to close quarter engagements- say home defense- a red dot will be a better choice.

It’s also good to note that most shooting scenarios will accept both options, so you’ll have to go with your personal preferences at times.

What Is A 1-4x Scope Good For?

Scopes are usually grouped in two categories: those with fixed magnifying power and those with variable magnifying power. A fixed scope offers a magnifying power; which means you can only get one target size while viewing through them.

On the other hand, with a variable scope, you can choose from a wide range of magnifying powers depending on your position and the target size you have in mind.

Today, the best 1-4X scope is more than a real optomechanical device. In fact, most hunters and tactical rifle users prefer a scope that is powered by 1-4X than the high powered ones or those with CBQ sights. And the reason is not far-fetched.

When correctly set, a good 1-4X Scope can be extremely useful especially in a tactical or hunting situation. Not only it will aid your gun, but it will also help you aim better (and faster) at your target and fire more accurately even at long distances. This can make a big difference for you if you are a hunter.

While it doesn't replace your shooting skills, using a variable scope like the 1-4X can help you consolidate on your shooting skills. A beginner shooting with a variable scope is more likely to look experienced shooter because of the added precision.

All you need is to just point and shoot. Yes, point the reticle on the target and pull the trigger.

While choosing the best scope for your gun, there are several factors to be considered. However, the most important ones are usually cost, configuration and application. You should think how much money will be spent as well the setting of the scope.

Usually, a basic knowledge of the design of the 1-4X scope won't suffice. To help you overcome this challenge, we've come up with a review of the best 1-4X riflescopes currently available in the market.

Final Verdict

Riflescopes are a must-have item for all serious shooters and hunters. Like all the other modern scopes, the 1-4x scope lets you see things that your naked eyes can’t see. They help you easily and quickly spot, track and shoot any game from the comfort of your hunting stand.

At the market, you’ll be spoiled for choices when looking for the best 1-4x scope. They’re many and come with different features, design, and prices to meet your needs.

I’d, therefore, suggest that you do some homework before settling on any scope to ensure it’s what you really need to make your hunting easier. Our buying guide above will help you pick the perfect scope to make your shooting tasks more productive.

Alternatively, you can choose from our list of the ten best 1-4x riflescopes. Though they differ in features, prices, and design, they all fall under the category of the best quality scopes, and you’ll surely find one that has been designed to solve your shooting needs.