The Nightforce NX8 1-8×24 is an American LPVO (Low Power Variable Optic) variable magnification riflescope, developed by Nightforce Optics and marketed from 2017. Designed to offer maximum versatility between close red dot shooting and mid-range engagement, it has quickly established itself as a benchmark in the compact and lightweight LPVO segment, particularly appreciated by professional armed forces, PRS/3-Gun sport shooters and demanding hunters.
History and Development of the Nightforce NX8 1-8x
Nightforce Optics, an American company founded in 1992 and based in Orofino, Idaho, has built a worldwide reputation for designing rugged riflescopes for military, police and precision sports applications. The NX8 range was launched in 2017 in response to growing market demand: ultra-compact LPVOs capable of competing with the high-end European models (Schmidt & Bender, Kahles) while remaining significantly lighter.
The NX8 1-8×24 is the result of an engineering effort to miniaturize the NXS platform while incorporating 1× true 1x magnification and an 8× zoom range. It has been adopted in particular as part of the American SOPMOD programme for special units and is included in several calls for tenders by European armed forces to equip modern assault rifles.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Official designation | Nightforce NX8 1-8×24 F1 |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| Manufacturer | Nightforce Optics, Inc. |
| Years of production | 2017 – present |
| Type | Variable magnification LPVO scope |
| magnification | (8:1 zoom) |
| Objective Diameter | : 24 mm |
| Tube diameter | 30 mm |
| FFP Focal Plane (First Focal Plane) | |
| Available reticles | FC-Mil, FC-MOA, Mil-XT, MOAR, Mil-C |
| Illuminated Reticle | Yes, 11 intensity levels |
| adjustment range | (elevation and windage) |
| Click value | 0.2 MRAD or 0.25 MOA depending on model |
| Parallax | Fixed at 100 yards |
| Total length | 218 mm |
| Weight | 484 g (17 oz) |
| Resistance | IPX7 waterproof, shockproof, military grade |
Operation and Technical Particularities
The NX8 1-8×24 is distinguished by its FFP (First Focal Plane) architecture, where the reticle expands in proportion to the magnification. This feature allows consistent use of reticle subvoltages at all magnifications, a major asset for distance estimates and ballistic corrections in tactical shooting. At 1× true, the user benefits from binocular vision with both eyes open, equivalent to a red dot, ideal for fast CQB engagement.
The digitally illuminated reticle (FC-Mil and FC-MOA models in particular) offers a very bright central cell allowing daytime use in direct sunlight, without dazzling in low light conditions. The optional ZeroStop™ system makes it easy to return to zero after ballistic adjustment. The 30 mm tube, the aircraft grade aluminum housing and the military-certified resistance (shocks, immersion, pressure) guarantee proven reliability in an operational environment.
Variants and Versions
The NX8 range includes several configurations adapted to specific uses: the NX8 1-8×24 F1 (reference model described here), the NX8 2.5-20×50 F1 for long-range shooting, as well as the NX8 4-32×50 F2 for extreme shooting at very long ranges. Each variant offers several optional reticles (Mil or MOA) and customizable turrets. The 1-8x version is usually the most sought-after for modern assault rifles such as AR-15, HK416, SCAR-L or SIG MCX.
Users and Armed Forces
The Nightforce NX8 1-8x equips several elite American units (US Special Operations Command, USMC) as well as tactical police forces. It is also distributed to European and Asian defence forces as part of modernisation contracts. On the civilian side, it is widely used in competition (PRS Gas Gun, 2-Gun, 3-Gun) as well as in hunting big game in driven or approaching areas, where its versatility and compactness make the difference compared to traditional goggles.
Civil Possession in Switzerland
In Switzerland, the Nightforce NX8 1-8×24 is freely available for purchase from specialist gunsmiths and shooting optics distributors. As an optical accessory, it is not subject to the Federal Weapons Act (Firearms Act) and does not require a specific acquisition permit. However, it must be mounted on a weapon whose acquisition complies with Swiss law. In accordance with Art. 8 para. 2 Firearms Act, the acquisition of a firearm requires a firearms acquisition permit issued by the competent cantonal authority, provided that the legal conditions are met (be at least 18 years of age, not be under general guardianship, not present a reason for refusal). Sports shooting and hunting enthusiasts can legally equip their semi-automatic or bolt-action rifles with this reference lens.
Conclusion
The Nightforce NX8 1-8×24 embodies the quintessence of the modern LPVO: compact, light, robust and optically efficient. Its adoption by elite military units and its success in tactical competition are a testament to its exceptional versatility. For the demanding shooter looking for a unique lens capable of effectively covering the distance 0–600 meters, the NX8 remains one of the essential references on the market in 2026, combined with world-renowned American know-how in the field of precision optics.
