Apparently, The MPVO Is Cool Again

Published on January 15, 2023
Duration: 16:42

This video explores the resurgence of Medium Power Variable Optics (MPVOs) as a 'do-it-all' optic, comparing them to Low Power Variable Optics (LPVOs). It details the physical characteristics of an MPVO, such as its longer length and front-heavy weight distribution due to a larger objective lens (44mm vs. 24mm). The guide covers mounting considerations, particularly eye relief, and discusses the impact of objective lens size on the eyebox and exit pupil. The review also delves into the optical quality, reticle design (ACSS Griffin Mill), illumination, turrets, and practical applications for both close-quarters and long-range engagements, including the use of offset and piggyback red dots.

Quick Summary

MPVOs (Medium Power Variable Optics) offer a brighter sight picture and better eyebox tolerance at higher magnifications due to their larger objective lenses (e.g., 44mm vs. 24mm on LPVOs). This makes them more comfortable for extended viewing at longer ranges, though they typically have shorter eye relief requiring forward mounting.

Chapters

  1. 00:02Introduction: The MPVO Trend
  2. 00:29MPVO vs LPVO: Key Differences
  3. 01:02Primary Arms 2.5-10x GLX MPVO Overview
  4. 01:10Physical Dimensions and Weight
  5. 01:27Objective Lens Size and Eyebox
  6. 01:39Mounting Considerations: 30mm Scope and QD Mounts
  7. 01:51Eye Relief and Mounting Position
  8. 02:07Eyebox and Exit Pupil Explained
  9. 02:31Practical Eyebox Differences
  10. 03:03LPVOs vs MPVOs: Speed vs. Comfort
  11. 03:07Primary Arms Optic Lines: SLX, GLX, PLX
  12. 03:28Optical Clarity and Distortion
  13. 03:43Scope Tunneling and Color Fringing
  14. 04:09Chromatic Aberration and Haloing
  15. 04:17Reticle Brightness and Illumination
  16. 04:43First Focal Plane and Reticle Size
  17. 04:56CQB Engagement with MPVOs
  18. 05:21Offset and Piggyback Optic Solutions
  19. 05:31Offset Red Dot Mounts: Pros and Cons
  20. 06:12Piggyback Optic Mounts Explained
  21. 06:37Mounting Considerations for Piggyback Setups
  22. 06:49Height Over Bore Issues
  23. 07:04Performance Testing: CQB Drills
  24. 07:23CQB Drill Results (MPVO vs LPVO)
  25. 08:02Longer Range Engagement Testing
  26. 08:14Longer Range Drill Results
  27. 08:30LPVO Comparison: Spin Down vs. Occluded Shooting
  28. 08:46LPVO Occluded Shooting Results
  29. 09:13MPVO Controls: Magnification Ring
  30. 09:26Diopter Adjustment
  31. 09:37Illumination Knob and Settings
  32. 09:55Parallax / Side Focus Knob
  33. 10:27Turret Design and Functionality
  34. 10:47Locking Turrets and Zero Stop
  35. 11:06Turret Clicks and Feel
  36. 11:15Mils per Click and Turn
  37. 11:24Reticle Usage vs. Dialing
  38. 11:31ACSS Griffin Mill Reticle Design
  39. 11:43Chevron Aiming Point
  40. 12:03Running Man Dots for Moving Targets
  41. 12:17Ranging Features: Horseshoe and Stadia
  42. 12:41Stadium Ranging Lines
  43. 13:03Mill Grid for Ranging and Dope
  44. 13:24Reticle Practice: Long Distance Shooting
  45. 13:28Long Distance Shooting Setup
  46. 14:07Long Distance Shooting Results (200-600 Yards)
  47. 14:33Price Point and Value Analysis
  48. 14:59Determining Your Optic Needs
  49. 15:12LPVO vs MPVO: Target Engagement Scenarios
  50. 15:37Competition Comparison: Red Dot vs. MPVO
  51. 16:00Long Range Shooting: LPVO vs MPVO
  52. 16:09Speed vs. Comfort in Optic Design
  53. 16:22Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between an MPVO and an LPVO?

The primary difference lies in their magnification ranges and design philosophy. MPVOs (Medium Power Variable Optics) typically offer a higher top-end magnification (e.g., 10x) and a larger objective lens (e.g., 44mm), prioritizing comfort and precision at longer ranges. LPVOs (Low Power Variable Optics) focus on speed and versatility with lower top-end magnification (e.g., 6x) and smaller objective lenses (e.g., 24mm), excelling at close-to-medium distances.

How does the larger objective lens of an MPVO affect its performance?

A larger objective lens on an MPVO (like 44mm compared to 24mm on an LPVO) results in a larger exit pupil. This provides a brighter sight picture and greater side-to-side tolerance in the eyebox, especially at higher magnifications, making it more comfortable for extended viewing and target acquisition at longer distances.

What are the mounting considerations for an MPVO?

MPVOs often have shorter eye relief (around 2.8 inches) than LPVOs, meaning they need to be mounted further forward on the rifle. It's crucial to position the optic as far back as possible within the scope rings to achieve a comfortable and consistent sight picture without scope shadow.

Can an MPVO be used effectively for close-quarters combat (CQB)?

MPVOs are not inherently designed for rapid CQB due to their magnification. However, they can be made more effective by adding an offset or piggyback red dot sight, which compensates for the lack of a true 1x setting and allows for faster target engagement at close ranges.

What are the benefits of the ACSS Griffin Mill reticle found on the Primary Arms GLX MPVO?

The ACSS Griffin Mill reticle offers a versatile aiming solution with a central chevron, running man dots for tracking moving targets, and various ranging features like horseshoe hash marks and stadium lines for estimating distance up to 600 yards, alongside a comprehensive mill grid for precise holdovers.

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