When I started experimenting with the best scope for 5.7x28, I quickly realized this cartridge presents unique challenges and opportunities. Originally developed by FN Herstal for the P90 and Five-seveN pistol, the 5.7x28mm round delivers flat trajectories and low recoil, making it excellent for varmint control, range fun, and even tactical use.
However, choosing an optic that matches its lightweight, high-velocity profile is critical. You need glass that can perform in close to mid-range engagements while maintaining agility on compact platforms like the Ruger LC Carbine or AR-57 upper.
In this in-depth review, I’ll cover my top five picks — each tested across different shooting platforms — and explain how they stack up in clarity, reticle design, durability, and practical performance.
🥇 Top Product List: 5 Best Scope for 5.7x28 of 2026
– Best Overall Versatile Tactical Scope – Best Budget LPVO for 5.7x28 – Best for Precision and Varmint Shooting – Best Premium Tactical LPVO – Best Value FFP Scope for Compact Rifles 1. Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 1-8x24 FFP
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24 FFP is my go-to optic for the 5.7x28 platform, especially when paired with the Ruger LC Carbine or an AR-57. Its 1-8x magnification provides a great balance between close-quarters flexibility and mid-range accuracy, perfect for the cartridge’s effective range of 150–200 yards. Specs:
Reticle: EBR-8 (FFP Illuminated) Adjustment: 1/4 MOA per click Pros:
FFP reticle ideal for accurate holdovers True 1x magnification for fast target acquisition Outstanding Vortex glass quality Cons:
Slightly heavy for ultralight carbines Illumination could be brighter under harsh sunlight Glass Clarity & Reticle:
Crystal-clear glass edge to edge, with minimal chromatic aberration. The EBR-8 reticle provides accurate ballistic holdovers calibrated nicely for flat-shooting rounds like the 5.7x28.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
I found the 3.5-inch eye relief comfortable, and the generous eye box allows fast transitions when shooting offhand.
Durability:
Shockproof, fogproof, and waterproof — this optic held zero after over 400 rounds fired on my Ruger LC Carbine using 40gr Federal American Eagle.
Turrets:
Crisp tactile clicks with consistent tracking. My box test at 100 yards showed perfect return to zero.
Magnification & Parallax:
Parallax fixed at 100 yards; magnification transitions are smooth and firm.
Mounting & Accessories:
Mounted easily on an Aero Precision ultralight mount. Zeroing took just five rounds.
Experience & Customer Comments:
Reddit users in r/guns praise the Strike Eagle for its clarity and reliability at this price point. My experience confirms it’s a near-perfect fit for the 5.7x28’s performance envelope.
Verdict:
A reliable, battle-ready LPVO with features that outperform its price tag.
2. Primary Arms SLX 1-6x24mm SFP ACSS Gen III
This Primary Arms LPVO has earned a cult following for a reason. It’s budget-friendly, yet the ACSS reticle offers intuitive holdovers and range estimation — perfect for the flat trajectory of the 5.7x28. Specs:
Reticle: ACSS Gen III (Illuminated) Pros:
Affordable but feature-rich Superb ACSS reticle for quick holdovers Excellent warranty and customer service Cons:
Slightly soft at 6x magnification edges SFP reticle means subtensions only accurate at max power Performance Insights:
On my PS90 carbine, the reticle allowed me to engage steel silhouettes from 25 to 200 yards effortlessly. The glass clarity is excellent for this price point, and the reticle brightness is sufficient for daylight shooting.
Experience & Community Feedback:
Many Reddit users mention using this optic for pistol-caliber carbines and report flawless performance. My hands-on testing mirrored that experience—fast, accurate, and durable.
Verdict:
If you’re looking for value without compromise, this is the best all-around optic under $400.
3. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40
Leupold’s VX-Freedom series offers legendary American craftsmanship and bright glass in a lightweight, reliable package. For precision shooting with the 5.7x28, this optic delivers surprising range capabilities. Specs:
Pros:
Crystal-clear Leupold glass Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof Cons:
SFP reticle not ideal for dynamic shooting Clarity & Eye Relief:
Incredible light transmission and a forgiving eye box make it perfect for longer sessions. I consistently achieved 1.5-inch groups at 100 yards using 40gr Hornady V-Max rounds.
Durability & Handling:
The build quality is exceptional. After 300 rounds on my FN PS90, the zero remained rock solid.
Verdict:
A timeless design that’s light enough for any carbine and tough enough for field abuse.
4. EOTECH Vudu 1-6x24
Short Description:
For shooters demanding the highest quality glass and tactical pedigree, the EOTECH Vudu is a powerhouse LPVO that delivers crisp clarity and unbeatable precision.
Specs:
Reticle: SR-2 (Illuminated, FFP) Pros:
Razor-sharp edge-to-edge clarity Excellent daylight-bright illumination True 1x for both-eyes-open shooting Rock-solid zero retention Cons:
Slightly short eye relief Performance:
Mounted on my AR-57 upper, the EOTECH Vudu provided fast acquisition up close and surgical precision at 200 yards. The illumination is bright enough for desert sun and dimmable for night work.
Verdict:
Premium LPVO perfection for those who demand no compromises.
5. Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 1-8x24
Athlon’s Argos BTR GEN2 delivers high-end performance at a mid-range price. Its FFP reticle makes it extremely versatile for short and mid-range targets. Specs: