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- Alfred Mendoza
- April 19, 2024
There are thousands of scopes available on the market, but we must say we like our 1-4x scopes better. We have had a lot of beginners ask where to get the best 1-4x scope for the money, so we decided to round them up and put them on “paper.” Save yourself the trouble and check out this guide.
- O-ring seals and argon gas purging
- Fiber optic turret rotation indicator
- Illuminated scope
- Enhanced resolution and color fidelity
- Customizable Rotational Stop
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Ideal for close to mid-range shooting
- Has drop zone and plus-caliber reticles
- Has fast-focus eyepiece and generous eye relief
- Compact and rugged design
- Adjustable objective (AO) lens
- Controlled by a side focus dial
- Interchangeable red and a green light for the center dot
- Adjustable intensity of the light
- Lightweight with a generous eye relief
Table of Contents
- 1 Top 10 1-4x Scopes For The Money
- 1.1 1. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 1-4x24
- 1.2 2. Bushnell Optics, Drop Zone Reticle Riflescope
- 1.3 3. Monstrum G2 1-4x24 Riflescope
- 1.4 4. Centerpoint Optics 1-4x20 MSR Rifle Scope with Offset Picatinny Mount and Glass Reticle
- 1.5 5. Monstrum 1-4x20 Rifle Scope with Rangefinder Reticle and Medium Profile Scope Rings
- 1.6 6. Athlon 215025 Talos BTR 1-4x24 Direct Dial Fixed Riflescope
- 1.7 7. Hi-Lux Optics CMR Series 1-4x24mm Close-Medium Range Tactical Riflescope
- 1.8 8. Monstrum G3 1-4x24 First Focal Plane Rifle Scope with Illuminated BDC Reticle
- 1.9 9. Steiner P4Xi 1x-4x24mm Riflescope
- 1.10 10. Vortex Optics Ranger 1-4x24 Second Focal Plane Riflescope
- 2 What is a 1-4x Scope?
- 3 Factors To Consider
- 4 5 Steps To Zero A 1-4x Scope
- 5 1-4x vs Red Dot
- 6 FAQs
- 7 And the #1 1-4x Scope For The Money is...
Top 10 1-4x Scopes For The Money
1. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 1-4x24
The Vortex Optics Crossfire II 1-4×24 Second Focal Plane Riflescope is one of the best 1-4x scopes that features a 1-piece and top-tier shockproof 30mm tube. This optic is precision-machined from a single solid block of high-grade aluminum that offers ample windage and elevation adjustment.
The Vortex Crossfire Scope 1-4-24 mm also comes with matching reticle and turret measurements that allow accurate and fast dialing of shots. It also boasts an Illuminated Reticle Electronic illumination that aids in the reticle’s low light visibility, like the V Brite reticle of the Vortex Viper PST Gen 2.
Meanwhile, its Customizable Rotational Stop aids in return to zero after a temporary elevation correction dial. This optic also features a precision-force spring system in the erector-spring system, an extra-low dispersion glass with proprietary coatings, and a fiber optic turret rotation indicator.
PROS
- O-ring seals and argon gas purging
- Fiber optic turret rotation indicator
- Illuminated scope
- Enhanced resolution and color fidelity
- Customizable Rotational Stop
CONS
- Slight edge blurring at zero magnification
2. Bushnell Optics, Drop Zone Reticle Riflescope
The Bushnell Optics, Drop Zone Reticle Riflescope with Target Turrets, Matte Black finish, 1-4x/24mm features target turrets with 0.1 mil click value for pinpoint-precise adjustments. It also comes with caliber-specific reticles that deliver every round with nonpareil accuracy, much like Bushnell Engage.
This riflescope features fully multi-coated optics, a fast-focus eyepiece that zeroes at 100 yards, with aiming points out to 500 yards. It is also nitrogen purged, O-ring sealed, high-durability aluminum alloy, and anodize-finished for extreme durability.
PROS
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Ideal for close to mid-range shooting
- Has drop zone and plus-caliber reticles
- Has fast-focus eyepiece and generous eye relief
- Compact and rugged design
CONS
- Relatively thick crosshairs
- Not usable at dawn or dusk
3. Monstrum G2 1-4x24 Riflescope
Monstrum G2 1-4x24mm is a precision tactical scope that features functionally designed First Focal Plane rangefinder reticles. Its reticles come with easy-to-read ranging information that remains constant regardless of magnification for faster holdover correction and range estimation.
As one of the best 1-4x scopes, it has an eye relief of 4 – 4.5 inches and an FDial controlled reticle illumination in red and green with multiple brightness settings. It features aircraft-grade aluminum construction with a 30mm sealed nitrogen charged tube.
This illuminated scope also comes with a 1/2 MOA per click windage/elevation adjustments with the ability to reset the zero powered by a CR2032 3V battery.
PROS
- Adjustable objective (AO) lens
- Controlled by a side focus dial
- Interchangeable red and a green light for the center dot
- Adjustable intensity of the light
- Lightweight with a generous eye relief
CONS
- Not compatible with other rail mount systems
- Little “blurs” on the zoom
4. Centerpoint Optics 1-4x20 MSR Rifle Scope with Offset Picatinny Mount and Glass Reticle
Centerpoint Optics 1-4×20 MSR Rifle Scope provides everything a hunter needs in the field or on the range. This optic is equipped to handle even the harshest recoil of any firearm. It also comes with rugged construction that could last a lifetime. This optic is best for AR rifles and handguns that have a range of up to 250 yards.
This optic also comes with a 1-inch diameter tube, quick-aim reticles with 3 MOA center dot, 65 MOA ring for ultimate versatility, extra-long eye relief, lens cover, and a Picatinny rail mount ring.
PROS
- Perfect for AR rifles
- Offers a quick aim reticles
- Suitable for up to 250 yards
- Controls recoil
- Can be used during dusk hours
CONS
- Narrow field of view
- Substandard eye box and eye relief
5. Monstrum 1-4x20 Rifle Scope with Rangefinder Reticle and Medium Profile Scope Rings
The Monstrum 1-4×20 Rifle Scope is a tactical scope ideal for close to mid-distance shooting. It comes with crystal clear optics with 1-4x magnification and a rangefinder reticle for faster range estimation and holdover correction.
Its tube is nitrogen-filled for resistance to water and fog. Monstrum scopes have etched black reticles that are always visible without illumination. Monstrum reticles can also be lit red or green for better reticle visibility at night or low light conditions.
This optic has dimensions of 8.5” x 2.0” x 1.8” and a weight of 11 oz. It also comes with lens covers and one 3V CR1632 battery. Lastly, it has a built-in throw lever that moves the magnification ring for easier and quicker yardage adjustments.
PROS
- Comes with parallax adjustment
- Excellent for close to mid-distance shooting
- Glass rangefinder dot reticle
- Fully multi-coated lenses coating
- Etched black reticle
CONS
- Heavier than most scopes
- Reticle not visible in broad daylight
6. Athlon 215025 Talos BTR 1-4x24 Direct Dial Fixed Riflescope
The Athlon 215025 Talos BTR comes with a reticle that features excellent illumination. This provides greater visibility at dusk and dawn. It also has an etched reticle that provides excellent backing support for its intricate reticle design. Its reticle also offers extreme durability and high shock resistance to recoil.
Talos BTR 1 4 24 riflescope’s fully multi-coated optics reduces light transmission and increases the transmission of light for a brighter image. This optic can handle the most challenging terrain over a lifetime of use because it is machined with aircraft-grade aluminum construction.
PROS
- Glass-stamped reticle
- Offers increased precision
- Fog proof thanks to the heat-treated tube
- Moisture resistant
- Durable
CONS
- Not ideal for extremely cold weather conditions
- Somewhat heavy
7. Hi-Lux Optics CMR Series 1-4x24mm Close-Medium Range Tactical Riflescope
The Hi-Lux Optics CMR Series comes with a tactical and hunting True 1x scope with Zero Locking System with MOA turret adjustments. It provides a solid one-piece 30mm tube construction with a fast focus large-diameter ocular lens.
Moreover, this optic boasts a Hi-Lux Optics “Zero Locking System,” allowing windage and elevation alignments to be locked in place with minor adjustments depending on the shooting condition or range.
PROS
- Very accurate MOA adjustments
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Has bullet drop compensating holdover lines
- Shock resistance hunting scope
- High-quality multi-coated lens
CONS
- The eye box might be too sensitive, affecting its eye relief.
- Eyebox might is somewhat hard to set and control
8. Monstrum G3 1-4x24 First Focal Plane Rifle Scope with Illuminated BDC Reticle
The Monstrum G3 with BDC reticle is a top-tier tactical riflescope ideal for close to mid-range shooting out to 300+ yards. It also comes with an FFP BDC reticle, with easy-to-read ranging information that remains constant regardless of magnification.
This optic also features a dial controlled reticle illumination in multiple brightness settings for better reticle visibility. This low power variable optic (LPVO) also comes with a custom-designed FFP reticle for faster holdover correction and range estimation.
PROS
- Illumination Control Knob
- Monstrum Tactical Reticle C Custom Designed
- Full Multi-Layer Lens Coating
- Fully functional MOA markings
- 6061 Aircraft Grade Aluminum
CONS
- Crazy amount of dust inside the optic
- The screws feel a bit crunchy when tightened down.
9. Steiner P4Xi 1x-4x24mm Riflescope
The Steiner P4Xi 1x-4x24mm Riflescope is a compact, precision optic designed for patrol and tactical operations. This optic offers clear images and a fast-action reticle best for everyday use or sudden action and is perfect for close-quarter engagement and 600-yard accuracy at the highest magnification.
The P4Xi 1 4 24 mm optic comes with high-contrast optics that deliver outstanding results under low light conditions. It also comes with a Steiner’s P3TR illuminated reticle for quick pointing and offers 11 illumination levels for day, night, or night vision operations.
PROS
- Lifetime warranty
- Clear, bright edge-to-edge glass and zero distortion
- Simple turrets and illumination controls
- Compactness suitable for fields
- Illuminated P3TR reticle
CONS
- Difficult to get the battery cover off
- Slightly sloppy turret and illumination dial.
10. Vortex Optics Ranger 1-4x24 Second Focal Plane Riflescope
The Vortex Optics Ranger 1-4×24 Second Focal Plane Riflescope is a tactical hunting scope that features a true 1x on the low end, providing red-dot-like speed in close-quarters engagements. It features a durable, one-piece aluminum tube, complemented by tall, exposed tactical turrets for fast and accurate elevation and windage adjustments.
This scope also features a CRS Zero Stop, ideal for in return to zero after temporary elevation correction dialing. It also comes with an XD glass for a better resolution and color fidelity.
PROS
- Glass-etched reticle
- Illuminated scope
- A hard-anodized finish
- O-ring sealed and argon purged.
CONS
- Relatively new
What is a 1-4x Scope?
A 1-4x scope is a scope that is ideal for close to mid-distance shooting. For a better explanation, let’s talk about the two numbers on a scope that show the power and display range of magnification separated by a hyphen that this scope has. One is the minimum magnification range, while the higher number is the maximum magnification range of the scope.
The 1x means the power of 1 or the image shooters see through the scope that appears closer than it does with the naked eye. On the other hand, the power four or 4x magnification means the image shooters see through the scope Besidesfour times closer than when looked through the naked eye. As a bonus, the number 20 refers to the size of the objective lens of the scope
Why Choose This Scope
If you are wondering why you need to choose this scope, well, you are up for a surprise. This scope is ideal for hunting, shooting ranges/games, and even self-defense.
It’s not surprising to know that some marksmen or hunters prefer to hunt from close to mid-distance, especially in wooded and hilly areas. The best 1-4x scope can allow shooters to shoot from a safe distance using several weapons, which are rifles in most cases.
A 1-4x scope also helps in polishing skills when used in a shooting range, as it can further aid in actual shooting competitions. And lastly, having a 1-4x scope during a possible crime situation that may need you a weapon to defend yourself this scope is legal in most jurisdictions.
What Makes A Good 1-4x Riflescope?
A good 1-4x scope must magnify your target image for easier and faster target acquisition. It must have a good dot size and a great illumination system that can help you identify your target and “separate” it at a visual level from the rest of the environment.
You must also need to ensure the lens’s quality, as it acts as the “heart” of your scope. A high-quality lens with high light transmission always equals a high-quality image, which means your target acquisition would be brighter, crisper, and better.
And lastly, you must find a scope with extreme durability that can withstand harsh weather conditions so it could last you longer, if not a lifetime.
Factors To Consider
Budget
One major factor that typically affects buyers is the budget range. Before divulging into purchasing a scope, one must always identify the price range he is willing to use to buy the scope. A scope may cost from $100 up to $1000, so you need to be extra careful to choose the best scope you are willing to spend.
Lens & Coating
As mentioned earlier, the lens is the “heart” of the scope. High-quality lenses will give shooters high-quality images. Remember, high-quality images will help your target locking easier with less shooting misses. You also need to consider the lens coating and objective lens diameter. Most top-tier lenses provide nitrogen purged coatings because they make the lens dustproof, waterproof, and fog proof.
Field of View
Having a wide field of view ensures better target locking.
Therefore, you should also consider the field of view of the scope you are planning to purchase.
Aside from being wide, you must also find a scope that would be pleasing to the eyes and free from any distractions, as it may hinder your hunting experience’s success
Light Transmission
Although light can travel through a vacuum, it cannot travel through all objects. When light strikes an object, it can be transmitted, reflected, or absorbed. Transparent materials, however, do not absorb the energy of the photon. Some materials are partially transparent, absorbing some photons and transmitting others. This will make the material look tinted since it only passes certain colors of light. [1]
You also need to find a scope with higher light transmission as it affects your scope’s overall quality, especially during low light conditions.
Reticle
There are many reticles to choose from, so you need to be extra careful in selecting the dot size of your 1-4x scopes. Some scopes have a duplex dot reticle, like the Trijicon SRO and Trijicon TR24, a dual illuminated riflescope. Consider the nature of use your scope needs to perform. We suggest that you take some time to study and read things about reticles before purchasing a scope to determine which better suits your purpose.
Further Reading:
Compatibility
You also need to consider the compatibility of your scope and your weapon. It would be futile to use a high-powered scope that is incompatible with your weapon. You need to ensure that your scopes are compatible with your gun in the most convenient way possible. You may want to check the tube diameter of the scope to get an idea of whether it would perfectly fit your weapon or not.
Durability
It’s not enough to have a high-powered scope with the best features that don’t have the durability to withstand the harshest condition.
There’s also the possibility of damage when used in the shooting range. You need to find scopes that are aluminum constructed, as it is more durable than just plain steel.
You also need to check whether the scope is waterproof, fog-proof, dustproof, and recoil resistant.
Customer Feedback
Based on our research, most shooters find the scopes as mentioned above budget-friendly, effective and reliable. Most of them also complimented about etched glasses and reticles of the scopes. The scopes’ illuminated reticle and aluminum constructed body are important in their hunting needs.
5 Steps To Zero A 1-4x Scope
- Install Your Scope Correctly – First, you need to ensure that you installed your scope correctly, as it could be ruined in just one shot when used while unstable.
- Set Up Desired Distance – After installing, you need to set up the desired distance that you want to take. Adjust your magnification and lock your target in.
- Load Your Firearm – Afterward, load your firearm in the safest way possible by following all the safety rules in such a situation.
- Aim To Hit Your Target – Remember to never shoot without checking that your range is hot enough. You can also aim to see if your system is set upright in a straight and accurate way.
- Set Up Backup Distances – And lastly, set up backup distances. Even experienced shooters will have at least three distances zeroed as preparation.
1-4x vs Red Dot
In the 1-4x vs red dot debate, many shooters are still confused about how these two scopes are different. Well, for an easier explanation, a red dot works like an optical illusion that shooters look through on top of their weapons. It provides a red dot or line that acts as a guide for more accurate shot placement.
On the other hand, a 1-4x scope will magnify targets in a zoom-in system. It doesn’t have any dot or sign as it provides a magnified image of the target. Some 1-4x scopes offer illuminated dots that can be green, red, and other shades of color.
FAQs
About 150 – 200 yards is a good distance for a 1-4x scope if you aim for precision. Although some scopes may require higher magnification ranges, the distance you should aim for must always depend on the model of the scope you are using. However, please consider that best 1-4x scopes are primarily used for close estimates, making it an ideal partner for close and mid-distance hunting games. You may also check out the best scopes for 500 yards here.
And the #1 1-4x Scope For The Money is...
Based on our research, the best 1-4x scope is the Vortex Optics Crossfire II 1-4×24 because it features a customizable rotational stop that aids in return to zero after a temporary elevation correction dial. This optic also features a precision-force spring system that uses first-rate components to ensure maximum repeatability and adjustment ease.
We also liked how its fiber optic turret rotation indicator provides a highly visible and tactile point of reference for turret rotations. This scope is also O-ring sealed and argon gas purged, so it is shockproof and waterproof. And lastly, this scope features extra-low dispersion glass, increasing its resolution and color fidelity resulting in crisper and sharper images.
Our #1 Recommendation
Vortex Optics Crossfire II
- O-ring sealed and argon gas purged
- Fiber optic turret rotation indicator
- Enhanced resolution and color fidelity
- Temporary elevation corrections return to zero
