In this video we begin our LPVO series and start with a Primary Arms SLx 1-6 Raptor FFP review.
| Get the gear in the Primary Arms 1-6 Raptor review |
Primary Arms Raptor SLx 1-6 FFP ACSS
Wheeler FAT Torque Wrench
Wheeler Discount Code: Thin10
Wheeler 89 Piece Professional Gunsmithing Screwdriver set
Wheeler Discount Code: Thin10
| Gear in this build |
Ryker Sling and Grip
Discount Code: TLD10
Ballistic Advantage 223 wylde 16″ premium barrel (amazing!)
Strike Industries enhanced bolt catch
Strike Industries ambi magazine release
| Training |
| Discounts |
Olight Weapon lights
Discount Code: TLDco
Grim Hunter Tactical Gear
Discount Code: TLD10
We start our review of the Primary Arms SLx 1-6 Raptor in first focal plane by explaining what a low power variable optic or LPVO is. A LPVO is an optic that has a low magnification such as 1x and then goes up to another low magnification level such a 4x, 6x, 8x, or even 10x magnification. The numbers in the LPVO identify the magnification range.
In the Primary Arms Raptor 1-6 for example, it is a 1x magnification scope that goes all the way up to 6x magnification.
An LPVO also comes in two different types of scopes. One is Second Focal Plane (SFP) and the other is First Focal Plane (FFP). The Primary Arms SLx 1-6 Raptor in review in this lpvo series is in first focal plane. First focal plane means the reticle changes size with magnification.
The PA Raptor 1-6 also uses an ACSS reticle and this is where some real magic starts to happen. The reticle changes size with magnification and the Raptor ACSS reticle gives you all the bullet drop characteristics you need to make shots at any distance. So if you combine these together, you have a very powerful optic that then then go from 1x to 6x magnification while keeping the required holdover at any magnification thanks to the Raptor ACSS reticle.
The ACSS Raptor reticle also has auto ranging functions that you can use to determine the distance of a 18inch wide target. Additionally, there are wind holdovers to mark your holdover for 5 and 10 mph winds. So if there is a 7.5 mph wind, just place the target between the 5 and 10 mph marker. The horseshoe on the Raptor ACSS reticle also aids in quick target acquisition at close range. The outside edge of the horseshoe can also be used for proper holdover for an target traveling at 8.7 mph.
We go into install and I show you how to install the Primary Arms Raptor 1-6. It is important that you use a torque wrench as the values on the scope rings are very specific. Before tightening anything down, make sure to set your eye relief so you don’t get any scope shadow when standing, kneeling or prone. Once the eye relief is set, you can lock it all down.
Taking it out to the range I did see one of the first problems with FFP optics and that is illumination at 1x magnification. Since the reticle becomes quite small, it is harder to see the reticle in the bright sun. I was still able to make out the reticle without any issue but it is worth noting the difference from a super bright red dot.
I found myself to be a tad bit slower with the Raptor 1-6 FFP optic but I was a TON more accurate. So you trade off a bit in terms of speed for the sake of accuracy. No one wants a fast miss anyway though.
When you crank up the magnification the reticle becomes easy to see and plenty bright in the day or night. Combined with the ACSS it was super fun to take out to distance. You can easily dial the magnification in any way you would like but still be able to easily transition from 100, 200, and even 600 yard targets instantly.
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