The Steiner P4Xi 1-4×24 is a German LPVO (Low Power Variable Optic) variable magnification riflescope, developed by Steiner-Optik GmbH, a historical manufacturer of military optics based in Bayreuth, Bavaria. Designed to offer optimal versatility between close fire and mid-range engagement, the P4Xi 1-4x stands out for its exceptional robustness, compactness, and proven reliability in demanding operational environments. It is commonly used in semi-automatic rifles such as AR-15 and European tactical rifles.
History and Development of the Steiner P4Xi 1-4x
Steiner-Optik was founded in 1947 by Karl Steiner in Bayreuth, Germany, and soon specialized in binoculars for military and naval applications. Now a subsidiary of the American group Beretta Holding, Steiner has expanded its catalog to tactical riflescopes with the P-Series range, of which the P4Xi 1-4×24 is a part.
Launched in the early 2010s, the P4Xi 1-4x was developed to meet the needs of law enforcement, military tactical units, and civilian sport shooters looking for a solid LPVO optics at a competitive price against competing premium models. Its philosophy: proven technical solutions in an ultra-robust housing rather than exotic innovations, and optical quality in line with German standards.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Official designation | Steiner P4Xi 1-4×24 |
| Country of Origin | Germany |
| Manufacturer | Steiner-Optik GmbH (Beretta Holding) |
| Type | Variable magnification LPVO scope |
| magnification | (4:1 zoom) |
| Objective Diameter | : 24 mm |
| Tube diameter | 30 mm |
| SFP (Second Focal Plane) | |
| Reticles available | P3TR, Rapid Dot 5.56, Rapid Dot 7.62 |
| Illuminated Reticle | Yes, 11 intensity levels |
| Elevation Adjustment Range | 140 cm/100 m (≈ 40 MOA) |
| Drift adjustment range | 140 cm/100 m |
| Click value | 1 cm/100 m (= 0.1 MRAD) |
| Parallax | Fixed at 100 m |
| Field of view at 1× | 38 m at 100 m |
| Total length | 261 mm |
| Weight | 489 g |
| Waterproof | Waterproof up to 10 m, shockproof, anti-nitrogen fog |
Operation and Technical Particularities
The P4Xi 1-4×24 uses an SFP (Second Focal Plane) optical architecture, where the reticle maintains a constant size regardless of magnification. This choice promotes fast and intuitive aiming in CQB and allows immediate reading of the aiming point at 1×. At this magnification, the scope offers a true 1× neutral allowing for use with two eyes open in a red dot fashion, ideal for quick engagements at close range.
The illuminated reticle is calibrated to provide a highly visible central cell in daytime conditions in direct sunlight, perfectly suited to the demands of tactical shooting. The Rapid Dot 5.56 and Rapid Dot 7.62 reticles incorporate BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation) points calibrated for NATO standard ammunition, simplifying engagements up to 600 meters without the use of turrets. The aircraft grade aluminum housing, water resistance up to 10 meters and military-grade impact resistance guarantee recognized operational reliability.
Variants and Versions
Beyond the P4Xi 1-4×24 described here, Steiner’s P-Series range includes several other glasses suitable for different needs: the Steiner T6Xi 1-6×24, a more versatile 6:1 zoom version; the Steiner M7Xi 4-28×56, a long-range military scope; and the Steiner T5Xi 5-25×56, precision PRS-oriented optics and very long-range shooting. The P4Xi remains the most accessible of the series, offering excellent value for money in the LPVO segment.
Users and Armed Forces
The Steiner P4Xi 1-4x equips several European police intervention units, German and Allied armed forces as part of modernization programs, and is widely used by sport shooters in national tactical competition. Its renowned robustness and price/performance ratio also make it a popular choice with driven big game hunters, where its versatility and 4× light are valuable.
Civil Possession in Switzerland
In Switzerland, the Steiner P4Xi 1-4×24 is freely available for purchase from specialist gunsmiths and tactical optics distributors. As an optical accessory, it is not subject to the Federal Weapons Act (Arms Act) and does not require a specific acquisition permit for its purchase. However, it must be mounted on a weapon whose acquisition complies with Swiss legislation. The acquisition of a semi-automatic or bolt-action rifle requires a weapons acquisition permit issued by the competent cantonal authority, in accordance with Art. 8 (2) Arms Act. The conditions include: being at least 18 years old, not being under general curatorship, and not presenting a reason for refusal. The P4Xi is particularly popular with Swiss sport shooters in dynamic disciplines (IPSC, 3-Gun) and hunters with modern semi-automatic rifles.
Conclusion
The Steiner P4Xi 1-4×24 embodies German know-how in proven tactical optics. Combining extreme robustness, compactness and optical quality in accordance with Steiner standards, it represents one of the best LPVO choices in its price segment in 2026. For the shooter looking for a reliable and versatile scope capable of providing a long-term accompaniment to a tactical semi-automatic rifle, the P4Xi remains an essential reference, a direct heir to the military expertise of a century-old brand at the service of the most demanding operators.
