First Impressions of Trijicon Ascent 1-6x24mm LPVO Rifle Scope, 30mm Tube, Second Focal Plane
The Trijicon Ascent 1-6x24mm LPVO Rifle Scope, 30mm Tube, Second Focal Plane enters a crowded market of low power variable optics, but immediately distinguishes itself with the legendary Trijicon name. This scope promises the durability and clarity that Trijicon is known for, but at a more accessible price point than their flagship models. The appeal of a versatile 1-6x magnification range combined with Trijicon’s reputation for quality makes this optic a serious contender for anyone looking to upgrade their rifle setup.
I was looking for a durable and reliable LPVO that wouldn’t break the bank for my AR-15 build. I needed something that could handle both close-quarters engagements and offer enough magnification for accurate shots out to a few hundred yards. The Trijicon Ascent seemed to strike a good balance between price and performance, which is why I decided to give it a try.
Unboxing the Ascent, the first thing I noticed was the solid feel of the scope. The matte black finish looked clean and the adjustments felt smooth and precise. It felt like a quality optic right out of the box, instilling confidence in its ability to withstand some serious use.
I was also considering the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6×24 and the Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24. I chose the Trijicon Ascent because I was willing to pay a bit more for what I hoped would be superior glass and a more robust build quality backed by Trijicon’s reputation. The brand recognition and anticipated durability is what set it apart from the others.
My initial impression was definitely excitement. The Trijicon Ascent seemed to offer the best of both worlds: the ruggedness and clarity of a high-end optic, coupled with a price tag that made it attainable. Only real-world use would reveal if it lived up to the Trijicon name.
Real-World Testing: Putting Trijicon Ascent 1-6x24mm LPVO Rifle Scope, 30mm Tube, Second Focal Plane to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Trijicon Ascent at my local shooting range, mounting it on my AR-15. The weather was clear and sunny, providing ideal conditions for evaluating the glass clarity and reticle visibility. I wanted to run it through various target distances ranging from 25 to 300 yards.
The scope performed admirably in the bright sunlight. The glass was indeed clear, providing a crisp and bright image even at 6x magnification. I found the reticle easy to pick up and the fully multi-coated, broadband, anti-reflective glass really did make a difference.
It took me a few minutes to get the diopter adjusted perfectly to my eye, but once that was set, the image was sharp and clear. The capped adjusters also felt solid and provided tactile clicks when making adjustments, meaning I wouldn’t need tools. There were no significant issues during the first range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Trijicon Ascent has proven to be a reliable optic. I’ve taken it through a couple of carbine courses and a weekend hunting trip in moderately rugged terrain. The build quality instills confidence.
There are a few minor scuffs on the finish, but the glass remains pristine. The scope has held zero consistently throughout, even after being bumped around in my rifle case. This really speaks to its rugged construction.
Cleaning and maintaining the Ascent is very straightforward. I simply wipe down the lenses with a microfiber cloth and occasionally clean the exterior with a damp cloth. It’s definitely outperforming the cheaper optics I’ve used in the past in terms of durability and optical clarity.
Breaking Down the Features of Trijicon Ascent 1-6x24mm LPVO Rifle Scope, 30mm Tube, Second Focal Plane
Specifications
The Trijicon Ascent 1-6x24mm LPVO Rifle Scope, 30mm Tube, Second Focal Plane features a 1-6x magnification range with a 24mm objective lens. It utilizes a 30mm tube diameter and a bullet drop compensation (BDC) reticle in the second focal plane (SFP). The scope body is finished in a matte black color and is designed for rifle use.
The 1-6x magnification range provides versatility for close-quarters engagements and longer-range shots. The 30mm tube allows for a wider range of adjustment for windage and elevation, important for precise zeroing and holdovers. The second focal plane reticle means the reticle size remains constant throughout the magnification range, which can be beneficial for maintaining a consistent sight picture at lower magnifications.
Performance & Functionality
The Trijicon Ascent excels in its primary role: providing a clear and accurate sight picture for rapid target acquisition. The glass clarity is excellent, offering true detail and color with minimal distortion. At 1x, it’s very close to a true red dot, allowing for quick target acquisition at close range.
The scope’s strengths lie in its optical clarity and ruggedness. The adjustments are precise and repeatable, and the reticle is easy to use. One weakness, common with SFP scopes, is that the BDC reticle is only accurate at one specific magnification level (usually the highest).
The Ascent meets my expectations for a Trijicon product. It delivers reliable performance and a clear sight picture in a durable package.
Design & Ergonomics
The Trijicon Ascent has a clean and functional design. The matte black finish is non-reflective and the tactical knurling on the magnification ring and diopter adjustment provides a good grip, even with gloves. The capped turrets are low-profile and prevent accidental adjustments.
The scope’s weight is reasonable for its size and feature set, and it doesn’t feel overly bulky on my rifle. There’s a slight learning curve in understanding the BDC reticle and its holdover points, but the user manual provides clear instructions. It is a very user-friendly optic.
Durability & Maintenance
The Trijicon Ascent is built to last. Its range-ready construction tested to military standards and anti-scratch glass can withstand the rigors of regular use. With proper care, I expect this scope to last for many years.
Maintenance is simple. I wipe down the lenses with a lens cloth after each range session and occasionally clean the exterior with a damp cloth. No special tools or cleaning solutions are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Trijicon Ascent does not come with a lot of accessories beyond the essentials. However, there are many aftermarket scope mounts available for 30mm tubes, allowing for a wide range of mounting options. Also, due to the standardization of AR-15 platforms, it is compatible with a vast amount of accessories.
Since it is a Trijicon product, the quality is guaranteed. While there aren’t many “accessories” for the optic itself, selecting the right scope mount is crucial for achieving proper eye relief and cheek weld. This can improve the overall shooting experience.
Pros and Cons of Trijicon Ascent 1-6x24mm LPVO Rifle Scope, 30mm Tube, Second Focal Plane
Pros
- Excellent glass clarity provides a bright and clear image for accurate shooting.
- Durable construction tested to military standards ensures long-lasting reliability.
- Precise and repeatable adjustments allow for easy zeroing and holdovers.
- Versatile 1-6x magnification range suitable for close-quarters and longer-range engagements.
- Easy-to-use reticle facilitates rapid target acquisition.
Cons
- The second focal plane reticle means the BDC is only accurate at one specific magnification.
- Limited included accessories compared to some competitors.
Who Should Buy Trijicon Ascent 1-6x24mm LPVO Rifle Scope, 30mm Tube, Second Focal Plane?
The Trijicon Ascent is perfect for:
- Hunters looking for a versatile optic for both close-range and longer-range shots.
- Competitive shooters who need a reliable and accurate scope for 3-gun competitions.
- Tactical shooters who require a durable and clear optic for dynamic shooting scenarios.
Those who should skip this product:
- Shooters who primarily engage in extreme long-range shooting (600+ yards) and require higher magnification.
- Users who prefer a first focal plane (FFP) reticle for accurate holdovers at any magnification.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality 30mm scope mount that matches the rifle platform.
Conclusion on Trijicon Ascent 1-6x24mm LPVO Rifle Scope, 30mm Tube, Second Focal Plane
The Trijicon Ascent 1-6x24mm LPVO Rifle Scope, 30mm Tube, Second Focal Plane is a solid performer that lives up to the Trijicon name. It offers excellent glass clarity, durable construction, and a versatile magnification range at a reasonable price point. While it’s not perfect, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.
The price is justified by the quality of the glass and the ruggedness of the build. Given its capabilities and reputation, it is a worthwhile investment.
I would definitely recommend the Trijicon Ascent to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile LPVO. It’s a great all-around optic that will serve you well in a variety of shooting applications. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the Trijicon difference!