EOTech VUDU 1-10x: Performance Tested

Of the many optic manufacturers that make up the industry, EOTech is easily one of the most recognizable. Over the years, they’ve crafted some of the most sought-after optic systems. And they’ve solidified their reputation as one of the top reflex and holographic sight makers. But, they aren’t the only types of optics they offer.

In 2016, EOTech ventured into the rifle scope scene. And ever since, their VUDU series scopes have ranked high amongst both civilians and professionals alike. Currently, there are several VUDU scopes in their lineup. But the VUDU 1-10x LPVO is one of the most popular. And for a good reason, too, which we’ll explain.

What is the EOTech VUDU 1-10x?

While there are multiple optics that make up the VUDU line, the EOTech VUDU 1-10x LPVO consistently ranks as one of their most popular. Put simply, the VUDU 1-10x LPVO is a solid rifle scope. Much like other LPVOs, it effectively bridges the gap between smaller reflex sights and higher power rifle scopes. As such, it excels in competitive, duty, hunting, and more basic recreational roles.

Still, EOTech has done a lot to bolster these optics. There are a lot of features they’ve packed into it to set this LPVO apart from others.

EOTech VUDU 1-10x: Specs That Matter for Performance

For starters, VUDU 1-10x LPVOs are built to handle just about anything your environment can throw at them. Made from aircraft grade aluminum, it’s water-, fog, and shock-resistant. It comes standard with EOTech’s upgraded EZ-CLIK™ Tactical Turrets, and push-button illumination. Plus, their 1-10x magnification range is exceptionally adaptable. At 1x, it performs a lot like a red dot sight. Its wide FOV gives you a full picture of your target, providing some added agility in more dynamic scenarios. And for distant targets, cranking the zoom up to 10x will give you a clear, magnified view of your target, as well as more reticle data.

Like many other LPVOs, the VUDU 1-10x can house many reticles. That said, the SR5 MRAD reticle is certainly one of the most popular. An MRAD reticle, it has a “Christmas Tree” style design that’s complete with multiple hash marks on its crosshairs, and several MIL-dots that gradually flare out. It also has a unique center dot design too. Rather than using the crosshair’s intersection as a center point of aim, it features a ¼-MIL center dot surrounded by an outer circle. Its overall styling is very eye-catching, allowing for some quick target acquisition, even when zoomed in all the way.

However, ranged performance isn’t all the SR5 reticle has to offer. At 1x zoom, the reticle’s outer speed ring comes into view. It looks nearly identical to EOTech’s circle dot reticle that comes standard on most of their holographic sights. Plus, it’s one of the main illuminated elements on this optic. And, since the inner circle dot is so small at 1x zoom, it appears like a normal reflex sight dot at 1x. So, you don’t have to worry about it getting in the way when engaging close targets.

Glass Clarity

A common notion held amongst enthusiasts is that an optic is only as good as the glass it uses. And we can’t agree more with this sentiment. A rifle scope’s glass can make or break the optic. If your glass isn’t good, it doesn’t matter how many cool features it has, or how adaptable the reticle is. Fortunately, the VUDU 1-10x makes use of very high-quality glass lenses.

These optics use EOTech’s XC™ High-Density glass, offering incredible clarity and resilience to abrasion and impacts. And it offers great edge-to-edge clarity, giving you a full picture of your target and its surroundings at every magnification level. So, at 1x, you’ll have a wide FOV, and when at maximum zoom, you’ll still be able to see your target against the surrounding area. Plus, the coating used on these lenses doesn’t cause any serious issues with chromatic aberration (a distortion that causes color to change around lens edges).

Reticle & Illumination Performance

The VUDU 1-10x features an illuminated reticle, just like most other LPVOs. However, not every VUDU 1-10x rifle scope is built the same. Currently, EOTech offers two versions of the VUDU 1-10x: one with a standard reticle, and another with their diffractive reticle.

Standard Reticle vs. Diffractive Reticle

	Standard SR5 Reticle	SR5 Diffractive Reticle
Reticle Construction	Makes use of standard etched reticle	Includes a micro etched diffraction grating over specific elements for increased illumination
Illumination Behavior	Offers basic levels of illumination like other optics with illuminated reticles	Uses the same illumination technology, but the reflective grating intensifies its brightness
Brightness Level	The maximum brightness level is good, but outclassed by reflex sights	Brightness is comparable to reflex sights; offers solid visibility, even in brighter environments
Contrast in Bright Environments	Visible against most backgrounds, but it can be harder to see in excessively bright environments	Reticle is much easier to acquire; the brighter reticle contrasts better against different more target backgrounds and surroundings
Speed in Dynamic Use	Still usable, but requires more focus to keep your eye on the reticle when transitioning targets	Much more agile in dynamic applications; functions more akin to a reflex sight at 1x magnification

Aside from their reticles, both models still come with the same inherent advantages. Both share the same overall construction, controls, and reticle design. So, the primary difference between them is their respective illumination.

Practically speaking, both LPVOs are a solid pick. The standard option still performs like a premium optic should. It has excellent light transmission, a clear reticle, and it’s more-than-durable enough to meet the needs of demanding use. But, the standard VUDU 1-10x doesn’t offer nearly as bright a reticle as the diffractive reticle version. This isn’t to say that it’s unusable, but if you want a bright reticle that’s easy to see across all environments, the diffractive reticle version is the move.

At the end of the day, choosing one over the other ultimately comes down to your budget and intended purpose. The EOTech Vudu 1-10x (Diffractive Reticle) is typically priced around $2,000, while the standard version goes for around $1,800 to $1,900. Likewise, it’s important to take your intended use into consideration too. For hunting and general-purpose use, the standard VUDU 1-10x is a great option. But, if you plan to use your rifle in more dynamic roles, the extra brightness afforded by the diffractive reticle model is nice to have.

Conclusion

It goes without saying that EOTech is one of the most popular optic manufacturers in the industry. And their popularity has only increased since the introduction of their VUDU series rifles scopes. The reputation these optics have earned is well-deserved.

EOTech’s VUDU 1-10x LPVO is an excellent choice for anyone searching for an adaptable rifle scope. Like we mentioned earlier, they’re great for nearly every application. Its durable construction, versatile reticle, and glass clarity make it an exceptionally well-rounded optic.

Offering performance that’s nearly on par with reflex sights at close range, you can easily use it in dynamic applications. Its wide FOV gives you a full picture of your target and surroundings, allowing you to make quick transitions with ease. And if you need to engage a further target, magnifying the optic is easy thanks to its on-the-fly throw lever. Plus, the rest of the SR5 reticle’s elements come into view, allowing more complex holds on targets out to 800+ yards away.

Pairing well with the AR-15, AR-10, and even some bolt-actions, it’s definitely worth considering for your next build.

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