The Primary Arms SLx 1-8×24 FFP earns its place on this list by doing something that used to be reserved for scopes costing considerably more, which is offering a genuinely first focal plane reticle across a full 1-8x zoom range at a price that undercuts most of its direct competition. Running the ACSS Raptor reticle in this review, calibrated for 5.56, 5.45×39 and .308, this scope has spent time on an AR-15 across range sessions and a hog hunt, and it consistently punches above its price point in the one area that matters most for an LPVO, which is whether the reticle actually tells the truth at every magnification.
Specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 1-8x |
| Objective diameter | 24mm |
| Tube diameter | 30mm |
| Focal plane | First focal plane |
| Reticle | Illuminated ACSS Raptor 5.56/5.45/.308 (also available in ACSS Griffin X MIL) |
| Click value | 1/4 MOA (0.1 MIL on Griffin X version) |
| Eye relief | Approximately 3.2 to 3.3 inches |
| Weight | 17.9 oz |
| Elevation and windage travel | 130 MOA |
Optical Performance
At 1x the field of view is wide and the image is bright and distortion free, giving genuinely fast target acquisition that holds up well against dedicated red dot sights in a direct side by side comparison. Being first focal plane, the reticle at 1x is necessarily smaller than a second focal plane equivalent, but Primary Arms has designed the ACSS Raptor’s central horseshoe to stay bold and fast to find even at minimum magnification, which is the correct solution to the classic FFP low power visibility problem.
At 8x the image holds together respectably for the price, with reasonable contrast and acceptable edge performance, though as with most compact objective LPVOs in this range, low light performance at maximum magnification is the weakest point, with the small 24mm objective limiting brightness noticeably as light fades.
Reticle and Turrets
This is where the SLx genuinely distinguishes itself. Because the ACSS Raptor is first focal plane, every holdover mark, wind hold and ranging reference is accurate at any magnification you choose, not just at the top of the range. This is a meaningful practical advantage over similarly priced second focal plane competitors, since you can use the ranging and holdover features at 4x or 5x during a fast transition without first cranking to maximum power.
The reticle includes automatic ranging references out to 600 yards along with moving target lead marks, genuinely useful additions for the predator and hog hunting this scope is well suited to. Illumination runs to 11 settings and gets convincingly bright for daylight use while still offering usable low settings for dawn and dusk.
Turrets are low profile, capped, and gave tactile, audible 1/4 MOA clicks that tracked accurately through testing, with a genuinely generous 130 MOA of total travel.
Build Quality and Durability
The 30mm tube feels solid, and the moveable, replaceable magnification ring fin makes fast power changes easy under time pressure without needing to break your cheek weld to find it. Primary Arms backs the SLx with a lifetime warranty, which is a strong commitment at this price tier and mirrors what the more established scope brands offer.
Through range sessions and a hunt on a 5.56 AR, the scope held zero reliably and the illumination system showed no issues with battery life or dimming inconsistency, with the spare battery thoughtfully included inside the windage turret cap.
Who Should Buy This Scope
This is an excellent choice for an AR-15 owner who wants genuine first focal plane accuracy across the full zoom range without paying for a premium brand name, particularly for hog and predator hunters who need reliable holdovers at whatever magnification the moment calls for. It also suits competitive shooters on a budget who need the reticle to tell the truth regardless of power setting.
If your priority is the absolute widest field of view at 1x or the lightest possible package, some second focal plane competitors edge slightly ahead in those specific areas. For genuine FFP accuracy at this price, the SLx is difficult to beat.
Pros
- Genuine first focal plane accuracy, meaning holdovers are true at any magnification, not just at maximum power
- ACSS Raptor reticle includes useful automatic ranging and moving target lead references
- Strong, versatile illumination system with a thoughtfully included spare battery
- Backed by a genuine lifetime warranty at a competitive price point
Cons
- Low light performance at 8x is limited by the compact 24mm objective, and the FFP reticle is necessarily smaller at 1x than a comparable second focal plane design
If you have been debating whether FFP is worth the extra cost over a similarly priced SFP LPVO, this scope makes a genuinely strong case for it. Take a closer look and see if it suits your rifle.
Alternatives to Consider
| Alternative | When it’s the better choice |
|---|---|
| Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 FFP | You prefer the Vortex ecosystem and EBR-8 reticle style |
| Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 SFP | Budget is tighter and you mainly hold over at maximum power anyway |
| Primary Arms SLx 1-8×24 Griffin X MIL | You prefer MIL based holdovers over MOA |
Frequently Asked Questions
What cartridges is the ACSS Raptor reticle calibrated for?
The version reviewed here is designed around 5.56 NATO, 5.45x39mm and .308 Winchester. Primary Arms also offers the SLx 1-8×24 with the ACSS Griffin X MIL reticle for shooters who prefer a MIL based system not tied to a specific caliber.
Is the Primary Arms SLx 1-8×24 good for hog hunting?
Yes, the wide 1x field of view suits fast close encounters while the first focal plane holdovers and moving target leads genuinely help at extended distances, making it a well rounded choice for hog and predator hunting.
Does the SLx 1-8×24 come with a warranty?
Yes, it is backed by a lifetime warranty from Primary Arms.
Is first focal plane worth it on an LPVO?
For anyone who uses the reticle’s holdover or ranging features at less than maximum magnification, yes, since FFP keeps those marks accurate throughout the zoom range. If you only ever use the reticle at 8x, the practical benefit is smaller.
Verdict
The Primary Arms SLx 1-8×24 FFP delivers genuine first focal plane accuracy, a useful and well illuminated ACSS reticle, and a real lifetime warranty at a price that undercuts much of its direct competition. For an AR platform rifle that needs to work at both close quarters and out to several hundred yards, this scope is one of the strongest value propositions currently available in the LPVO category.
See Also: Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Review
I’m Jake, a dedicated shooter and hunter who has spent years testing rifles, scopes, and gear in the field. I write from real experience, sharing what truly works, not what’s trendy. My goal is to give you honest, practical insights that help you make the right choices for your adventures and pursuits.
