For years, the Vortex Strike Eagle has been my go-to budget-priced LPVO (low-power variable optic). It’s a solid package with decent glass, a practical BDC (bullet drop compensation) reticle, and arguably the best no-questions-asked, unlimited lifetime warranty on the market. When it goes on sale, the price is practically unbeatable.

Between the 1-6x and 1-8x magnification options, I’d nudge you toward the 1-6x for most scenarios. Its more forgiving eye box usually trumps the extra magnification of the 1-8x. That said, the 1-8x is still plenty functional.