When it comes to scopes for AR-15 carbines, the low-powered variable optic (LPVO) is king. An LPVO generally has a lowest magnification of 1x and they have a top magnification of 4x, 6x, 8x and more and more 10x. There are even some 1-12x LPVOs hitting the market, but a 1-6x or 1-8x LPVO is most common.
LPVOs are lightweight, fast and easy to use, making them ideal for competition, tactical shooting, home and self-defense and general plinking. In fact, LPVOs are a growing trend among hunters, too. For mounting an LPVO to an AR, a “one-piece” or “cantilever” mount is the preferred option for their ease of mounting on ARs. Cantilever mounts usually set the scope height at about 1.5 inches over the rail, which “about right” for almost…