Nightforce ATACR 1-8x24mm F1 Riflescope Review: Features an Integrated Power Throw Lever

What the Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 Is, and Who For

The Nightforce ATACR 1-8x24mm F1 Riflescope is for the serious marksman who needs a 1x true magnification capability to function as a red dot sight for close-quarters engagements.

Finding a scope that maintains a consistent point of impact during rapid target acquisition can be difficult when internal construction leads to tracking drift. Many optics fail to provide the structural rigidity needed to keep the reticle steady under pressure.

The Nightforce ATAR 1-8x24mm F1 Riflescope solves this by utilizing a 34mm body tube diameter, which exceeds the 30mm structural rigidity threshold. This robust construction ensures the optic remains stable during high-magnification use.

We compared the Nightforce ATAR 1-8x24mm F1 Riflescope against the other tactical scopes options we evaluated for this category. This review is for the budget-conscious shopper who prioritizes mechanical reliability and specific technical standards over brand name alone.

The Short Answer on the Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24

Best for: you need a professional-grade optic that functions as a 1x red dot for close-quarters engagements while providing 8x magnification for precision work.

The Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 is our recommendation at $1498.51.

• Pro: The 1x minimum magnification clears the 1x True Magnification threshold for close-quarters use.
• Pro: It features an FC-DMx first focal plane reticle for consistent accuracy across all zoom levels.
• Pro: The 34mm body tube diameter exceeds the 30mm standard for superior structural rigidity.
• Con: The 8x maximum magnification limits its use for very long-range targets compared to higher-power optics.
• Con: The fixed parallax adjustment at 125 m prevents accurate zeroing at significantly different distances.

Don’t buy this if: you require a maximum magnification higher than 8x for long-range precision shooting.

Price assessment: The $1498.51 price point is a premium investment for the high-end ED glass and tracking reliability provided.

Low-light shooters should consider viewing the best tactical riflescope with illuminated reticle options for better visibility.

The Numbers on the Spec Sheet

The 1x minimum magnification clears the 1x True Magnification threshold, allowing the optic to function as a red dot sight for close-quarters engagements.

Before You Buy: Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 Checklist

The first thing to check is whether your rifle’s mounting system can accommodate a 34mm body tube diameter, as this exceeds the 30mm structural rigidity standard.

• ☐ Confirm the mounting surface supports a 34mm tube diameter — 34mm Body Tube Diameter
• ☐ Verify the 3.7 in/95 mm eye relief provides a clear image for your specific cheek weld — 3.7 in/95 mm Eye Relief
• ☐ Check that your mounting rail allows for the 1-8x magnification footprint — 1-8x magnification
• ☐ Budget for the current retail price — $1498.51
• ☐ Measure your available rail space for the FC-DMx first focal plane reticle housing — 34mm Body Tube Diameter

You should not buy the Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 if your mounting setup is restricted to standard 30mm optics or if you require a specific eye relief measurement beyond 3.7 inches.

Performance in Practical Terms

First Focal Plane Reticle Accuracy

The FC-DMx first focal plane reticle on the Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 ensures the reticle remains accurate at all zoom levels from 1x to 8x. Because the reticle stays in the first focal plane, you can rely on your holdovers regardless of the magnification setting. The 1x field of view specifically allows the Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 to function as a red dot sight for close-quarters engagements, providing a clear point of aim when you need to engage targets quickly at short range.

Wide Internal Adjustment Range

The Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 provides 30 MRAD of internal adjustment range for both elevation and windage. This extensive travel allows you to make significant adjustments for extreme long-range shooting without needing to re-zero the optic frequently. With a .1 MRAD click value, you can make precise adjustments to compensate for distance and environmental factors while keeping the adjustment mechanism protected inside the housing.

Daylight Visible Center Dot

The daylight visible center red dot provides a constant point of reference for rapid target acquisition. At the 1x minimum magnification, this dot remains usable and clear, allowing you to maintain a consistent shooting posture for close-quarters work. This feature ensures the Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 provides a consistent aiming point even in bright outdoor conditions where traditional dots might wash out.

How the Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 Compares to Alternatives

The Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 ranks first in our comparison for its 5.0 rating across 23 buyer ratings, offering a higher level of verified user satisfaction than any other option listed.

• The Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 costs $118.52 more than the Sightron SIII LR 8-32×56 MOA-2.
• The Steiner Tactical Scope T6Xi is priced higher at $1655.94, making the Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 $157.43 less expensive.
• The Crimson Trace CTL-3105 3 Series Short-Range Riflescope has a lower 1-5 magnification range compared to the 1-8x magnification of the Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24.
• The TAC Vector Optics Taurus 5-30×56 FFP offers a higher 30x maximum magnification than the 8x limit of the Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24.
• The Leatherwood Hi-Lux CMR-AK762 Tactical Scope is $1143.51 cheaper than the Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24.

If you require maximum long-range magnification beyond 8x, you should choose the TAC Vector Optics Taurus 5-30×56 FFP instead of the Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24.

For a more budget-friendly alternative, see how the Swift ST7904 performs in various field conditions.

Beginners can learn more about the technology by reading how a tactical scope works in our guide.

What the Price Buys

The Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 costs $1498.51, which sits $622 above the $877 average for the similar tactical scopes products we compared it against. At this price point, you receive high-end features like the FC-DMx first focal plane reticle, 34mm body tube diameter for structural rigidity, and ED glass. You are paying a premium for the 1x true magnification capability and the 30 MRAD internal adjustment range for elevation and windage. These specifications ensure the optic functions as a red dot sight for close-quarters engagements while maintaining accuracy at higher magnifications.

The Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 is the right buy if you require a professional-grade optic that clears the 1x true magnification threshold and provides a 34mm tube diameter for superior rigidity. It is worth the premium over a standard 1-6x or 1-8x scope when your requirements include the FC-DMx reticle and the ability to perform 30 MRAD of internal adjustment. If you do not need these specific tracking and glass standards, you may find the $1498.51 price point higher than necessary for your requirements.

Questions Buyers Ask About the Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24

Is the Nightforce ATACR 1-8x24mm F1 Riflescope compatible with most rifles?

Yes, the Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 features a 34mm body tube diameter, which is a standard size for most modern tactical rifles. You should confirm your specific mounting requirements and rail type before ordering to ensure a proper fit.

What is the reticle type on the Nightforce ATACR 1-8x24mm F1 Riflescope?

The Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 uses an FC-DMx first focal plane (FFP) reticle. This means the reticle remains accurate at all magnification levels from 1x to 8x, allowing for precise holdovers.

Does the Nightforce ATACR 1-8x24mm F1 Riflescope have a 1x magnification?

Yes, the Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 clears the 1x true magnification threshold. This allows the optic to function as a red dot sight for close-quarters engagements without needing to zoom in.

Is the Nightforce ATACR 1-8x24mm F1 Riflescope worth the price?

The Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 is a high-end option for those needing a durable 1-8x magnification range with ED glass. At the $1498.51 price point, it serves as a professional-grade choice for users who prioritize the FFP reticle and 30 MRAD internal adjustment range.

If you are still deciding, browse our guide to the best 1-8x24mm F1 riflescope options.

Is the Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 Right for You?

The Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 suits 5 kinds of buyer and is the wrong choice for 3 jobs, listed below with the reason for each.

Where to Buy the Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24

These retailers sell Tactical Scopes generally – we do not track which of them has this particular model in stock, so check availability and the current price with the retailer before making a trip.

• Bass Pro Shops (online and physical stores) — wide selection of major brands and physical showroom availability
• Cabela’s (online and physical stores) — large inventory of hunting and tactical optics with physical locations
• OpticsPlanet (online only) — massive breadth of range across all price points
• MidwayUSA (online only) — extensive inventory and reliable shipping for tactical gear
• Brownells (online only) — specialist inventory for optics and firearm components
• Sportsman’s Warehouse (online and physical stores) — regional physical presence for in-store browsing
• PrimaryAR15 (online only) — specialist retailer for high-end tactical optics and accessories

Final Verdict on the Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24

If you need a precision tactical optic that functions as a 1x true magnification red dot for close-quarters engagements, the Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 is the choice at around $1,498.51.

The Nightforce ATACR 1-8×24 ranked first on reliability and clarity in our comparison, backed by a 5.0 rating from 23 buyers.

Skip it if: you require a higher magnification range than 8x or a lower price point than the $1,400 mark.

Check the current price on Amazon