LPVO Showdown: Truglo Tru-Brite 1-6X24 vs Vortex Venom SFP 1-6X24

LPVO scopes have been a love-hate optic for those in the gun world. Often viewed as a good compromise for both long-range and close-up, low-power variable optics are here to stay. While some view them as an alternative to a red dot and/or scope, I see them as a third option. If your weapon is primarily for close quarters, use a red dot. For long distances, get a good scope so you can use the full potential of that high-powered rifle.

But if you need a flexible weapon capable of performing in both environments, use an LPVO rifle scope. It may not be better than a red dot up close or a scope at further distances. It fills that gap in the middle and allows the user to have some flexibility. It can be used at close distances but is capable of magnification to some degree. Watching the military is one way to see how the tides are turning.

Because they have an enormous budget for research and testing, people tend to follow their lead in the civilian world as well. The military uses a lot of different optics on their guns, but one thing they are starting to use more is LPVOs. Whatever the military wants, companies make. Because of this, we have seen a slew of new LPVOs hit the market, including those from Sig Sauer, Trijicon, and others. The only problem is that those military-grade optics are on the pricy side. Like, in the thousands.

What’s the best quality in the affordable world?

Unless you are willing to spend some serious money on an optic, you may be wondering what affordable options are out there. Finding the right balance of quality and price can be frustrating. Everyone claims their optics are the best or “most advanced on the market.” Obviously, the lower the price, the lower the quality, to a degree.

However, some companies manage to make solid products at unbelievable prices. Today, we will be looking at two popular optics in their respective price ranges. These are the Truglo Tru-Brite, which retails for $184, and the Vortex Venom SFP, which retails for $299.99. The biggest question is whether you should pay the extra $100. Here’s a quick rundown of each optic.

Truglo Tru-Brite 1-6X24 Illuminated LPVO

For the price, this is a bargain. I’ve had one for nearly two years, and it reminds me of a G-Shock watch. It’s affordable and keeps working — no matter how much you beat it up. One feature I like about Tru-Brite is the easy-to-use adjustment knobs for distances. Using 1/2 MOA adjustments, the elevation nob has been pre-calibrated for 100 – 800 yards.

The calibration is based on a 55-grain .223 bullet but can also be reconfigured for heavier ones. I sighted mine in at 100 yards, and it’s surprising how well it works. When the target is 200 yards out, pull up on the knob and turn to “200,” then push back down. Place your crosshairs on the target, and it’s dead on. It also has a quick adjustment knob for left and right windage as well.

The illumination helps locate your crosshairs in low-light situations. CR2032 powers the red or green illumination, which is controlled by a knob on the left side of the optic. There is a throw lever on the Tru-Brite for quick adjustments and magnetic covers for the lens. The 30mm tube uses standard scope rings or mounting brackets for a Picatinny rail.

It’s on the heavy side, but it’s a solid optic. During my first review of this optic, I dropped it several times to see if I could place it out of zero, and it held. It’s been on and off my rifle over the years, but I’ve only had to make some minor adjustments. Truglo offers a lifetime warranty on their products, which is surprising for the price. At $185, it’s a great option for those on a budget.

Vortex Venom 1-6X24 SFP LPVO

One of Vortex’s newest optics in the LPVO world, the SFP is one of my favorites. I’ve had mine mounted on a variety of rifles; it’s just easy to shoot with. Also, with a 30mm tube and a second focal plane variable optic, the Venom is built to last. Vortex used a crush-resistant aircraft aluminum for the body. It’s corrosion-resistant and has an anodized finish.

It’s a fully multi-coated lens with an ArmorTek finish that helps protect it from oils and scratches while keeping the view extremely clear. Another added feature is the optic is gas-purged, making it completely fogproof and waterproof. MOA adjustments are .25, allowing you to get extremely close to your zero. The windage and elevation knobs are adjustable without any tools but have metal covers that screw on.

This allows a shooter to adapt to varying ammunition or distances quickly. When combined with the Vortex Razor HD Ballistic Laser Range Finder, you can make just about any shot. You can use a Vortex low-height PRO series mount or a Sport Cantilever Mount. I did find the optional throw handle did not work on the low-mount PRO because it sits too low on the rail. If you plan to use the throw lever, I recommend a higher mount, like the Sport.

The red illumination powers the AR-BDC3 reticle with a CR2032 battery, which is easy to see. There are multiple brightness settings with an “off” space in between each setting. This gives it a one-click turn to your preference on the brightness settings. While reviewing this optic, I soaked it in water, placed it in the oven, and froze it. Check out that full review on the Mag Life.

Which LPVO is the best for the price?

While both of these optics are great products for the money, paying the extra $100 is a no-brainer for me. Vortex has a great reputation for making quality gear. Their unconditional warranty is not just a feel-good word on paper, either. If a Vortex optic breaks, they will fix or replace it without proof of purchase. I’ve called them and emailed them many times with questions, and they responded.

I’ve always said a company’s customer service is part of what makes my decision to purchase something. Every time I call them, I get a real customer service agent—no voice mail, no options for automated help—a real person. For the abuse that I put the Venom through, this is more than a bargain at $300, and I wouldn’t hesitate to choose it.

If you don’t plan to use one much but want to add an LPVO to a cheaper rifle just because there’s nothing wrong with the Tru-Brite either. It’s a great optic for under $200. In the long run, I’m not sure it would hold up to the abuse of Venom. But when taken care of, it stays on target, and it’s easy to use. Choose the one that works for you and have some fun on the range or on your next hunting trip.