First Impressions of AT3 Tactical Red Tail LPVO 1-4×24 LPVO Rifle Scope with Mount 30mm SFP
The world of low power variable optics (LPVOs) is vast, ranging from budget-friendly options to high-end, competition-grade scopes. Enter the AT3 Tactical Red Tail LPVO 1-4×24 LPVO Rifle Scope with Mount 30mm SFP, a contender vying for the sweet spot of affordability and functionality. Coming from AT3 Tactical, a company known for its value-driven approach to AR-15 accessories, the Red Tail promises rapid target acquisition, a bullet drop compensation (BDC) reticle, and a bundled mount – all at a price point that won’t break the bank.
I was looking for an optic to top my new AR build; something versatile enough for close-quarters drills but capable of reaching out to a few hundred yards. The market is saturated with red dots, but I wanted something with magnification for those longer shots, and the Red Tail seemed to fit the bill perfectly.
Upon unboxing, the AT3 Tactical Red Tail LPVO 1-4×24 LPVO Rifle Scope with Mount 30mm SFP presents well. The anodized finish looks clean, and the included cantilever mount feels solid. The weight is reasonable for an LPVO in this class.
I considered the Primary Arms SLx 1-6x24mm and the Vortex Crossfire II 1-4×24 before settling on the Red Tail. The Primary Arms was appealing with its higher magnification, but it came with a higher price tag. The Vortex was a strong contender, but the AT3 Tactical‘s included mount and locking turrets swayed my decision.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The price seemed almost too good to be true, leading me to wonder if the glass quality or durability would be compromised. However, the included mount and locking turrets were a definite plus, and I was eager to see if the AT3 Tactical Red Tail LPVO 1-4×24 LPVO Rifle Scope with Mount 30mm SFP could live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting AT3 Tactical Red Tail LPVO 1-4×24 LPVO Rifle Scope with Mount 30mm SFP to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the AT3 Tactical Red Tail LPVO 1-4×24 LPVO Rifle Scope with Mount 30mm SFP was at an outdoor range with distances up to 300 yards. The weather was mild and sunny. Mounting the scope was straightforward using the included cantilever mount.
I started at 25 yards to zero the optic and get a feel for the 1x magnification. The glass clarity was surprisingly good for the price point, and the illuminated reticle was bright enough to be easily visible in daylight. The BDC reticle proved useful at 200 and 300 yards, allowing for quick holdovers on steel targets. I noticed a slight fisheye effect at 1x, but it was minimal and didn’t significantly impact target acquisition.
After about 100 rounds, the scope held zero perfectly, but the throw lever came loose. This required tightening with the included Allen wrench.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the AT3 Tactical Red Tail LPVO 1-4×24 LPVO Rifle Scope with Mount 30mm SFP has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it in various conditions, including a rainy range day and a dusty carbine course.
There are minor cosmetic scratches on the anodized finish. However, the glass remains clear, and the turrets still provide positive, audible clicks. Cleaning is simple. A microfiber cloth and lens cleaner are all that’s needed to keep the glass in pristine condition.
Compared to my previous experience with a budget red dot, the Red Tail is a significant upgrade in terms of versatility and accuracy. The 1-4x magnification range provides a much wider range of engagement distances.
Breaking Down the Features of AT3 Tactical Red Tail LPVO 1-4×24 LPVO Rifle Scope with Mount 30mm SFP
Specifications
- Manufacturer: AT3 Tactical.
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm.
- Magnification: 1 – 4 x.
- Reticle: BDC Reticle. The custom-designed BDC reticle provides holdovers for shots out to 600 yards using popular .223/5.56 cartridges.
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm.
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP).
- Exit Pupil: 6 – 24 mm.
- Illumination Color: Red.
- Finish: Anodized. This gives the scope a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish.
- Field of View, Linear: 24 – 96 ft at 100 yds.
- Eye Relief: 3.54 in. Generous eye relief ensures comfortable shooting.
- Color: Black.
- Weight: 16 oz. A lightweight design that won’t add excessive weight to your rifle.
- Adjustment Click Value: 0.5 MOA.
- Length: 9.88 in.
- Adjustment Type: MOA.
- Parallax: Fixed.
- Battery Type: CR2032, Stand Alone Lithium.
- Fabric/Material: 6063-T6 Aluminum.
- Adjustment Range: 120 MOA.
- Optical Coating: Fully Multi-Coated. This enhances light transmission and image clarity.
- Water Resistance Level: IPX-7. Waterproof rating for use in adverse conditions.
- Fogproof: Yes.
- Package Type: Box.
- Gun Type: Rifle.
Performance & Functionality
The AT3 Tactical Red Tail LPVO 1-4×24 LPVO Rifle Scope with Mount 30mm SFP performs its job admirably. It provides a clear sight picture, a usable BDC reticle, and reliable adjustments. The 1x magnification is close enough to true 1x for close-quarters engagements, while the 4x magnification allows for accurate shots at longer distances.
The strengths lie in its value proposition, ease of use, and included mount. The weaknesses include a slightly stiff magnification ring and the minor fisheye effect at 1x.
Overall, the Red Tail exceeds my expectations for an LPVO in this price range. It offers a good balance of features and performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is solid, with a durable aluminum housing and a smooth anodized finish. The weight is manageable, and the eye relief is comfortable.
The scope is generally user-friendly, but the magnification ring can be a bit stiff, especially when new. The locking turrets are a nice touch, preventing accidental adjustments in the field.
Durability & Maintenance
The AT3 Tactical Red Tail LPVO 1-4×24 LPVO Rifle Scope with Mount 30mm SFP appears to be durable enough for recreational shooting and light tactical use. The IPX-7 waterproof rating provides peace of mind in wet conditions.
Maintenance is simple: just keep the lenses clean and occasionally check the mount screws.
Accessories and Customization Options
The AT3 Tactical Red Tail LPVO 1-4×24 LPVO Rifle Scope with Mount 30mm SFP comes with a 30mm cantilever riser mount, a magnification throw lever, and flip-up lens covers. These included accessories add significant value to the package.
The scope is compatible with any standard 30mm scope rings, allowing for further customization of the mounting system. Aftermarket throw levers are also available for those who prefer a different style.
Pros and Cons of AT3 Tactical Red Tail LPVO 1-4×24 LPVO Rifle Scope with Mount 30mm SFP
Pros
- Excellent value for the money. The AT3 Tactical Red Tail LPVO 1-4×24 LPVO Rifle Scope with Mount 30mm SFP provides a solid LPVO experience at a very competitive price point.
- Included cantilever mount. The bundled mount saves time and money, making it a complete package ready to install.
- Locking turrets. These prevent accidental adjustments in the field, ensuring that your zero remains consistent.
- Illuminated BDC reticle. The reticle provides quick holdovers for accurate shots at various distances.
- Durable construction. The aluminum housing and anodized finish offer good resistance to wear and tear.
Cons
- Stiff magnification ring. The magnification ring can be difficult to turn, especially when new.
- Slight fisheye effect at 1x. The 1x magnification exhibits a minor fisheye effect, although it doesn’t significantly impact usability.
Who Should Buy AT3 Tactical Red Tail LPVO 1-4×24 LPVO Rifle Scope with Mount 30mm SFP?
The AT3 Tactical Red Tail LPVO 1-4×24 LPVO Rifle Scope with Mount 30mm SFP is perfect for budget-conscious AR-15 owners looking for a versatile optic for recreational shooting, home defense, and light tactical applications. It’s also a great option for new shooters who want to experiment with LPVOs without breaking the bank.
Those seeking a high-end, competition-grade optic or those who require true 1x magnification without any distortion should consider a more expensive option.
A must-have accessory would be a quality set of backup iron sights, in case the optic fails.
Conclusion on AT3 Tactical Red Tail LPVO 1-4×24 LPVO Rifle Scope with Mount 30mm SFP
The AT3 Tactical Red Tail LPVO 1-4×24 LPVO Rifle Scope with Mount 30mm SFP is a solid value proposition in the crowded LPVO market. It offers a good balance of features, performance, and durability at an affordable price. The included mount and locking turrets are significant bonuses that add to its appeal.
The price is definitely justified for what you get. It’s an excellent entry-level LPVO that punches above its weight class.
I would definitely recommend the AT3 Tactical Red Tail LPVO 1-4×24 LPVO Rifle Scope with Mount 30mm SFP to anyone looking for a budget-friendly and versatile optic for their AR-15. If you’re on the fence about trying an LPVO, this is a great place to start. Upgrade your AR-15 today!