Discoveryopt ED-AR 1-8X24SFIR FFP — Full Product Overview

The Discoveryopt ED-AR 1-8X24SFIR FFP is the flagship model of the ED series in the LPVO (low-power variable optic) category. Compared to the earlier ED-AR 1-6x, this version adds a higher 8x maximum magnification and — unusually for the LPVO market — a side-focus parallax adjustment knob, allowing focus from as close as 5 yards out to infinity. This combination makes it a genuinely versatile optic for both close-quarters and mid-range shooting.

Optical System — Japanese ED Glass and Multi-Layer Coating

The scope uses the ED series' defining feature: Japanese extra-low dispersion (ED) glass in the objective lens. This type of glass minimises chromatic aberration — the optical phenomenon where different wavelengths of light fail to converge at the same focal point, producing colour fringing around high-contrast edges.

The lenses are fully multi-coated with anti-reflective coatings, delivering exceptional light transmission reported at 93%. In practice, this means a bright, high-contrast image in low-light conditions — at dawn, dusk, or in dense woodland. The 24mm objective keeps the overall profile compact, while the 34mm tube provides the necessary internal light path capacity.

First Focal Plane (FFP) Etched Reticle and Illumination

The reticle is positioned in the first focal plane (FFP) and is mechanically etched — a meaningful advantage over painted or printed reticles, as the etching is permanent and will not wear or fade over the lifetime of the scope.

Because the reticle scales with the image, MIL subtensions remain accurate at every magnification level. There is no need to remember which power setting a holdover was calibrated for — a practical benefit in dynamic shooting situations or when switching between targets at varying distances.

The reticle is complemented by red illumination with 6 brightness levels. Lower settings work well in low light and CQB environments; higher settings help maintain reticle visibility in moderate ambient light conditions.

Side Parallax Adjustment — A Rare LPVO Feature

The side parallax adjustment is one of the most distinctive features of the ED-AR 1-8X24SFIR, and it is genuinely uncommon in the LPVO category. Most short-range variable optics have a fixed parallax setting calibrated for a specific distance, with no user adjustment available.

The ED-AR's side parallax dial adjusts focus from 5 yards (approx. 4.6 m) to infinity, which offers three practical advantages:

• Close-range targets — at the minimum 5-yard setting, the image remains sharp even at distances that would defeat most LPVOs, useful for CQB training, airsoft, or precision airgun competition.
• Precision shooting — eliminating parallax error at longer distances reduces group size and improves consistency.
• Varying shooting positions — adjusting parallax when moving between prone, seated and standing positions helps maintain a crisp image regardless of eye alignment.

Mechanical Construction and Turrets

The 34mm tube diameter — stepping up from the standard 30mm — provides two key benefits: greater mechanical rigidity under recoil and impact, and more internal space for the optical and mechanical components, which contributes to the generous adjustment range.

• Click value: 0.1 MRAD (1/10 MIL)
• Elevation adjustment range: 38 MRAD
• Windage adjustment range: 22 MRAD
• Zero reset: yes — the dial can be repositioned to zero after zeroing the scope
• Zero lock: yes (lock = down position) — prevents accidental adjustment

Weather Resistance and Durability

The scope is nitrogen-filled to prevent internal fogging and moisture ingress. It is rated waterproof to 1 metre for 30 minutes and is fog-proof. The housing is rated to 1,500 G shock resistance, making it suitable for use on rifles chambered in .50 BMG according to the manufacturer's specifications.

Warranty

Discoveryopt provides a lifetime warranty on all ED series products, including this model. The warranty covers full repair or replacement in the event of malfunction, with no registration or proof of purchase required. It is also fully transferable.

Technical Specifications

• Magnification: 1–8x
• Objective lens diameter: 24 mm
• Tube diameter: 34 mm
• Reticle plane: FFP (first focal plane), etched
• Illumination: red, 6 levels
• Click value: 0.1 MRAD
• Elevation adjustment range: 38 MRAD
• Windage adjustment range: 22 MRAD
• Parallax adjustment: 5 yards – infinity (side dial)
• Field of view @ 100 yards: 133.6 ft (1x) — 15.7 ft (8x)
• Eye relief: 4.0 in / 101.6 mm (1x) — 3.4 in / 87.6 mm (8x)
• Exit pupil: 15.6 mm (1x) — 3.0 mm (8x)
• Length: 290 mm / 11.4 in
• Weight: 687 g / 24.2 oz
• Water resistance: 1 m / 30 min
• Shock resistance: 1,500 G
• Nitrogen-filled: yes
• Warranty: lifetime (ED series)

Who Is This Scope For?

• 3-Gun and multi-gun competitors — true 1x distortion-free imaging for fast target transitions, with enough top-end power for precision stages.
• Hunters using AR-platform rifles — equally capable for close, fast shots and mid-range precision on wild boar, deer or coyote.
• Tactical and home defence users — the combination of side parallax and FFP reticle gives a precise, dependable system.
• Precision airgun and rimfire shooters — the 5-yard minimum focus makes this scope a practical choice for NRL22 and similar competitions.