Griffin Armament ICO 1-8×28 LPVO Rifle Scope, 30mm Tube, First Focal Plane Review

First Impressions of Griffin Armament ICO 1-8×28 LPVO Rifle Scope, 30mm Tube, First Focal Plane

The Griffin Armament ICO 1-8×28 LPVO Rifle Scope, 30mm Tube, First Focal Plane promises a lot: a versatile optic for everything from close-quarters engagements to mid-range target identification, all at a price that doesn’t require a second mortgage. Griffin Armament, a company known for its suppressors and other high-quality firearm accessories, is stepping into the optics game with a product that aims to be an “Ideal Carbine Optic,” hence the “ICO” designation. I’m immediately intrigued to see if it lives up to the hype.

I was looking for a single optic that could bridge the gap between a red dot sight on my AR-15 and a dedicated higher-magnification scope on my bolt gun. My primary concern was rapid target acquisition at close range, but with the ability to reach out and touch targets accurately at several hundred yards. I needed something durable enough to withstand regular range use and the occasional carbine course.

Unboxing the Griffin Armament ICO 1-8×28 LPVO, I was immediately struck by its solid feel. It’s not featherlight, but the weight feels substantial and reassuring, suggesting a robust build quality. The Type 3 anodized finish looks clean and feels durable.

I considered the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 and the Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24 before ultimately choosing the Griffin Armament ICO. The Griffin Armament offering edged out the Vortex due to the reticle design and the promise of better glass clarity, while the 1-8x magnification range gave it a slight advantage over the Primary Arms 1-6x for my intended use. My initial impression is positive. It seems like a well-built optic that has the potential to be an excellent all-around performer.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Griffin Armament ICO 1-8×28 LPVO Rifle Scope, 30mm Tube, First Focal Plane to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Griffin Armament ICO 1-8×28 LPVO was at my local range, primarily shooting on an AR-15 platform. I tested it in relatively clear conditions, with some occasional cloud cover. Initial zeroing at 100 yards was straightforward, and the turrets provided tactile and audible clicks, giving me confidence in my adjustments.

The 1x magnification proved to be quite usable for close-range drills. I could quickly transition between targets without the distortion or “fish-eye” effect that some LPVOs exhibit at their lowest magnification. At higher magnifications, the image remained clear and bright enough for accurate target identification out to 300 yards, and I was pleased with the scope’s initial performance. I did notice some slight chromatic aberration at the higher end of the magnification range, but it wasn’t overly distracting.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Griffin Armament ICO 1-8×28 LPVO has held up admirably. It’s been through a few range trips in varying weather conditions, including a particularly dusty day and a light rain shower, and I’ve experienced no fogging or water intrusion. The anodized finish still looks new, with no noticeable scratches or wear marks.

Maintenance has been simple. The glass cleans easily with the included Griffin Armament microfiber cloth. I’ve only had to make minor adjustments to the turrets to maintain zero, even after some rough handling and transport.

Compared to the budget LPVO I used previously, the Griffin Armament ICO offers significantly better glass clarity and a more usable reticle. Its durability and consistent performance far surpass my expectations for an optic in this price range. It seems built to last.

Breaking Down the Features of Griffin Armament ICO 1-8×28 LPVO Rifle Scope, 30mm Tube, First Focal Plane

Specifications

The Griffin Armament ICO 1-8×28 LPVO Rifle Scope features a 28mm objective lens diameter providing a good balance between light gathering and a compact size. The 1-8x magnification range offers true 1x capability for close-quarters and 8x for extended ranges. The Ideal Carbine Optic (ICO) reticle is glass-etched with MIL/BDC markings, designed for ranging and windage holds with common cartridges.

It uses a 30mm tube diameter, providing ample space for internal adjustments and increased light transmission. Being First Focal Plane (FFP), the reticle scales with magnification, allowing accurate ranging at any power setting. This is crucial for quick and precise adjustments in dynamic shooting scenarios. The scope offers an exit pupil of 4.5 – 10.8 mm, depending on the magnification, and weighs in at 19 oz.

The adjustment click value is 0.1 Mil Rad, with a total adjustment range that is appropriate for most carbine applications. It’s 11 inches in length, 2.5 inches in width, and 1.94 inches in height. Its aluminum housing provides excellent protection, and the black Type 3 Anodized finish offers superior resistance against scuffs and abrasions. The parallax is set at 150 yards, a reasonable distance for its intended use, and the reticle is illuminated via an LED with 11 brightness settings.

Designed specifically for the 5.56mm caliber, the reticle is calibrated to match the ballistics of this common round. Its water resistance is rated at IPX-7, signifying it can withstand submersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. The housing material is an aluminum alloy offering rugged durability.

Performance & Functionality

The Griffin Armament ICO 1-8×28 LPVO excels in its primary role: providing a versatile sighting solution for carbines. At 1x, the sight picture is clear and allows for rapid target acquisition, making it suitable for close-quarters engagements and dynamic drills. The illuminated reticle, with its 11 brightness settings, is easily visible in various lighting conditions, from bright daylight to low-light scenarios.

The FFP reticle is a significant advantage, allowing for accurate range estimation and holdovers at any magnification level. The ranging features are well-designed and easy to use, enabling precise shots at extended ranges. The glass clarity is excellent for its price point, offering a bright and clear image with minimal distortion.

The turrets provide positive and repeatable clicks, making zeroing and adjustments straightforward. However, the parallax setting at 150 yards could be a limitation for very close-range shooting, but it’s a reasonable compromise for its overall design. One minor drawback is that the eye relief is somewhat sensitive, requiring consistent head positioning for optimal performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The Griffin Armament ICO 1-8×28 LPVO boasts a robust design with a well-machined aluminum housing and a durable anodized finish. The overall weight of 19 oz is reasonable for an LPVO, providing a solid feel without adding excessive weight to the rifle. The included flip-up scope caps are a welcome addition, protecting the lenses from dust and debris.

The magnification ring is easy to grip and adjust, even with gloves, providing smooth and consistent transitions between magnification levels. The illuminated reticle dial is also well-positioned and easy to operate, allowing for quick adjustments to the brightness setting. The diopter adjustment allows for clear focus for users with varying eyesight.

Durability & Maintenance

The Griffin Armament ICO appears to be built to withstand the rigors of regular use. The aluminum housing and Type 3 anodized finish provide excellent resistance to scratches, abrasions, and impacts. The IPX-7 water resistance rating ensures reliable performance in wet conditions.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lenses with the included microfiber cloth. The turrets and magnification ring operate smoothly and consistently, indicating a high level of internal build quality. With proper care, the Griffin Armament ICO should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Griffin Armament ICO 1-8×28 LPVO comes with flip-up scope caps, a Griffin Armament microfiber cloth, and a CR2032 battery for the illuminated reticle. While no other accessories are included, the 30mm tube diameter makes it compatible with a wide range of aftermarket scope mounts. Users can choose from various QD (quick detach) mounts, cantilever mounts, and standard scope rings to suit their specific needs and preferences.

The reticle design, while optimized for 5.56mm, can be effectively used with other calibers by understanding their ballistic properties and adjusting holdovers accordingly. There are no available options to change the reticle as it is glass etched. The optic doesn’t require specialized tools or modifications, making it easy to install and use on any compatible rifle platform.

Pros and Cons of Griffin Armament ICO 1-8×28 LPVO Rifle Scope, 30mm Tube, First Focal Plane

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Who Should Buy Griffin Armament ICO 1-8×28 LPVO Rifle Scope, 30mm Tube, First Focal Plane?

The Griffin Armament ICO 1-8×28 LPVO is perfect for shooters who want a versatile optic for their AR-15 or other carbine platforms. It’s an excellent choice for those who participate in 3-gun competitions, tactical training courses, or hunting scenarios where engagements may occur at varying distances. Its durable construction and reliable performance make it suitable for law enforcement professionals and responsible armed citizens.

This product may not be ideal for shooters who prioritize extreme long-range accuracy or require a more specialized optic with advanced features. Those with very specific parallax requirements or those seeking the absolute best possible glass clarity may want to consider higher-end options.

A quality scope mount is a must-have accessory to ensure proper installation and optimal performance. A throw lever for the magnification ring can also be a useful addition, allowing for faster and easier magnification adjustments.

Conclusion on Griffin Armament ICO 1-8×28 LPVO Rifle Scope, 30mm Tube, First Focal Plane

The Griffin Armament ICO 1-8×28 LPVO Rifle Scope, 30mm Tube, First Focal Plane is a compelling offering in the crowded LPVO market. It delivers a strong combination of versatility, performance, and durability at a price point that makes it accessible to a wide range of shooters. The FFP reticle, excellent glass clarity, and robust construction make it a standout performer in its class.

The price is absolutely justified for what you get. This is a great optic with a lot of value packed into it.

I would absolutely recommend the Griffin Armament ICO 1-8×28 LPVO to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile optic for their carbine. If you are looking for the best performance for the money, then give this optic a try!