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Expert Pick: Top 3 Optics for Lever-Action Rifles

06/2025
Author: Corvus Arms
Jun 04, 2025
🕒 8 mins

Introduction

The Evolution of Lever-Action Rifles

Lever-action rifles have a long and storied history, deeply embedded in the fabric of American firearms heritage. From their widespread use during the frontier era to their continued popularity in hunting and sport shooting, lever-actions like the iconic Marlin 1894 have proven themselves as rugged, reliable companions. However, modern shooters are not content with tradition alone—they want performance, precision, and adaptability.

That’s where optics come into play. Historically, iron sights ruled the lever-action world. But with the resurgence of these rifles in tactical and practical shooting circles, shooters are embracing red dots and LPVOs (Low-Power Variable Optics) to get the most from their rifles. Especially with platforms like the 1894 Mad Pig Custom, which comes equipped with a Picatinny rail, mounting a modern optic is easier than ever.

As lever-action rifles transition from cowboy classics to contemporary combat tools, the integration of advanced optics bridges the gap between old-school style and new-school performance. Whether you’re clearing brush, ringing steel at 100 yards, or guarding the homestead, a quality optic is now an essential part of your lever gun setup.



Importance of Optics in Modern Shooting

In today’s shooting landscape, accuracy and speed are critical. Optics significantly enhance both by offering faster target acquisition, improved accuracy in low-light conditions, and flexibility for multiple shooting distances. For lever-action rifles—especially customized ones like the 1894 Mad Pig Custom—adding an optic can transform your experience from nostalgic plinking to high-speed tactical readiness.

Red dots offer unmatched speed and simplicity. They shine in close quarters and fast-paced shooting scenarios. On the other hand, LPVOs provide magnification options for medium-range shooting without sacrificing speed at 1x power, making them perfect for a more versatile lever-action setup.

Choosing the right optic depends on your use case. Are you hunting hogs at dawn? Defending property in varied terrain? Competing in a cowboy action match with a modern twist? Your optic should match your mission. That’s why we’ve handpicked the top 3 optics that truly complement the capabilities of lever-action rifles like the 1894 Mad Pig Custom—each chosen for reliability, clarity, and performance under pressure.

Understanding Optics for Lever-Action Rifles

Red Dot Sights vs. Low-Power Variable Optics (LPVOs)

So, what’s the deal with red dots and LPVOs, and which should you choose for your lever gun? Let’s break it down.

Red Dot Sights: These optics are lightweight, intuitive, and fast. With no magnification, they allow shooters to keep both eyes open and maintain situational awareness. The illuminated dot helps shooters get on target quickly—ideal for close-range engagements, home defense, or dense brush scenarios. They’re simple to use and quick to zero, making them great for beginners and experienced shooters alike.

LPVOs (Low-Power Variable Optics): These optics usually offer a magnification range like 1-4x, 1-6x, or even 1-10x. At 1x power, they function almost like a red dot. But twist that magnification ring, and you’re equipped for medium-range shots. For those who want flexibility—whether transitioning from room-clearing to 200-yard shots—an LPVO is the ultimate dual-purpose tool.

Ultimately, it comes down to mission and preference. If you mostly shoot up close and want the lightest setup possible, go with a red dot. If you need magnification and plan to shoot at varying distances, an LPVO is your best bet. The 1894 Mad Pig Custom’s Picatinny rail allows you to mount either option easily, so you’re not locked into one choice.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Optic

Choosing an optic isn’t just about picking the coolest-looking scope. There are a few key things you should keep in mind:

  1. Durability: Lever-actions are often taken into tough environments—rain, snow, mud, thick brush. Your optic needs to handle all that without losing zero.
  2. Weight: A heavy optic can throw off the balance of your rifle, especially with a compact platform like the 1894 Mad Pig Custom. Go lightweight if agility matters.
  3. Reticle Type: Some shooters prefer a simple dot. Others like hash marks or BDC (bullet drop compensation) reticles for more precision. Know what works for your shooting style.
  4. Battery Life: Optics are useless if they die on you mid-hunt. Look for models with long battery life or solar backup.
  5. Mounting Compatibility: The optic should easily mount to the rifle’s Picatinny rail without extra adapters or spacers.

With these criteria in mind, let’s dive into our top picks for optics that pair flawlessly with lever-action rifles.

Top 3 Optics for Lever-Action Rifles

Trijicon MRO HD

Features and Benefits

When you hear the name Trijicon, you think military-grade toughness—and the MRO HD lives up to that reputation. Designed for quick target acquisition, this optic is one of the most rugged red dots on the market. The MRO HD features a crisp 2 MOA dot with an optional circle-dot reticle for faster sight alignment. It offers over 2 years of continuous battery life, and its large objective lens allows for a wide field of view—a major plus when shooting on the move or scanning thick woods.

Constructed from 7075-T6 aluminum, the MRO HD is both lightweight and bulletproof. It’s fully waterproof and fogproof, so whether you’re hunting in the rain or sweating it out on the range, this optic won’t blink. Its top-mounted brightness dial is intuitive and easy to adjust even with gloves.

Ideal Use Cases

The Trijicon MRO HD is perfect for shooters who prioritize speed and simplicity. If you’re using your 1894 Mad Pig Custom for close-range defensive applications or quick shots in the woods, this red dot is unbeatable. Its compact design keeps the rifle agile and ready for fast action. The optional magnifier compatibility also gives you flexibility if you want to stretch your shots without changing optics.

Holosun AEMS

Features and Benefits

Holosun has made a name for itself by offering affordable optics packed with high-end features, and the AEMS (Advanced Enclosed Micro Sight) is a shining example. This red dot sight combines a compact footprint with the durability and clarity shooters expect from much pricier optics. One of its standout features is the ultra-clear glass and the multi-reticle system that lets you switch between a 2 MOA dot, a 65 MOA circle, or both—catering to different shooting styles and preferences.

Solar Failsafe technology ensures you’re never without power, even if your battery dies unexpectedly. On top of that, Holosun’s Shake Awake function automatically powers the optic on when it detects motion, extending battery life up to 50,000 hours. The AEMS is also fully enclosed, keeping out dust, water, and debris—critical for hunters and tactical shooters who get down and dirty in the field.

Its mounting height and small footprint make it an ideal match for lever-action rifles like the 1894 Mad Pig Custom. The optic’s compact size ensures it won’t interfere with the rifle’s handling, while still delivering all the benefits of a full-featured red dot.

Ideal Use Cases

The Holosun AEMS is ideal for shooters who want the flexibility of multiple reticle options and bulletproof reliability at a competitive price. Whether you’re stalking hogs at dusk, defending your home, or competing in fast-paced shooting events, the AEMS delivers. Its small size and advanced features make it a no-brainer for anyone outfitting a lever-action rifle for modern tactical use. If you’re hesitant to spend Trijicon-level money but still want serious performance, this optic should be at the top of your list.

Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10×24

Features and Benefits

The Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10×24 is a powerhouse LPVO that transforms your lever-action rifle into a do-it-all machine. With true 1x on the low end and a full 10x magnification on the high end, it offers the best of both worlds—fast target acquisition up close and precise shot placement at distance. This scope uses Vortex’s EBR-9 reticle, which is illuminated and etched in glass for stunning clarity and accuracy. It’s first focal plane, meaning the reticle scales with the zoom level—ideal for precise ranging and shooting at various distances.

Built like a tank, the Razor HD Gen III is made from aircraft-grade aluminum and is fully waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. The glass quality is second to none in its class, delivering razor-sharp images and true color fidelity. This optic is no featherweight, but its rugged performance and premium optics justify the size and weight for serious shooters.

The turret system is another highlight, offering tactile, audible adjustments that let you dial in your shot quickly and accurately. And while it’s certainly pricier than most LPVOs on the market, the Razor HD Gen III earns its keep in every performance category.

Ideal Use Cases

If you’re pushing your 1894 Mad Pig Custom into medium- to long-range shooting, the Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10×24 is your perfect match. This is the optic for shooters who want uncompromising precision, flexibility, and durability. Whether you’re taking 200-yard shots on coyotes, competing in dynamic shooting sports, or simply want a lever-action that punches well above its weight class, this LPVO delivers. It’s the choice for those who want one optic to rule them all—and have the skill and need to use its full capabilities.

Conclusion

The resurgence of lever-action rifles in the modern firearms world isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about versatility, reliability, and adaptability. With custom builds like the 1894 Mad Pig Custom leading the charge, pairing these heritage guns with cutting-edge optics brings out their full potential. Whether you’re after fast target acquisition, superior accuracy, or simply a more enjoyable shooting experience, choosing the right optic is essential.

The Trijicon MRO HD gives you rock-solid reliability and lightning-fast dot acquisition, making it ideal for defensive and brush work. The Holosun AEMS combines innovation and affordability with features typically reserved for higher-end optics, offering flexibility and convenience in a compact package. And for those who want to stretch their lever gun’s legs, the Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10×24 brings magnified precision and first-rate build quality to the table.

Each of these optics has been carefully selected not just for their standalone performance, but for how well they integrate with lever-action platforms—especially those fitted with a Picatinny rail like the 1894 Mad Pig Custom. So whether you’re a traditionalist looking to modernize or a tactical shooter exploring the lever-action world, there’s a perfect optic waiting to transform your rifle into a next-level performer.

FAQs

1. Can I use these optics on other rifles besides the 1894 Mad Pig Custom?
Absolutely. All three optics—Trijicon MRO HD, Holosun AEMS, and Vortex Razor HD Gen III—are compatible with any rifle featuring a Picatinny rail. They’re highly versatile and suitable for AR platforms, PCCs, and even bolt-action rifles.

2. What’s the best optic for home defense with a lever-action rifle?
The Trijicon MRO HD or Holosun AEMS are both excellent choices. They offer quick target acquisition, wide field of view, and simplicity in high-stress scenarios.

3. Do I need a magnifier with a red dot sight?
Not necessarily. Red dots like the MRO HD and AEMS are designed for close to medium ranges. However, if you plan to shoot beyond 100 yards regularly, a magnifier can help improve target identification and accuracy.

4. How do I maintain zero after mounting an optic?
Ensure your optic is properly torqued to the Picatinny rail using the manufacturer’s recommended specs. After initial zeroing, periodic checks and possibly using witness marks on your mounts can help maintain consistent accuracy.

5. Is the extra weight of an LPVO worth it on a lever-action rifle?
If your shooting involves varying distances or requires precision at range, then yes. While heavier, LPVOs like the Vortex Razor HD Gen III offer unmatched flexibility and are worth the investment for serious users.

And don’t forget to shop at CorvusArms.com for all your lever-action rifle upgrades and optic needs!

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