I like my primary arms scope. Weight certainly is a thing I am watching on my build, for the 5oz difference you get nicer controls, and the illumination shut off in every position is neat as well. I would rather go for the PST, considering the weight, throw lever, and difference in illumination in mind.
The PA Nova has some great features but for me it’s now collecting dust in my safe. I’ll probably give it to my son. I would like to try the PST II but hate to spend the money on it unless I know what the magnification at 1x looks like with the diopter adjusted for my eye. If I can’t find that I may just buy another Razor II 1-6.
@@CDOES Yeah, as far as function goes they work great for me but…there is so much variety out there. It’s simply not as nice as having a variety of things (as long as they work just as well).
I don’t know what PA is doing with their glass but I’ve noticed the exact thing in an older Gen 3 SLx 1-6, GLx 4-16, and even some on the PLxC 1-8. I do not have that problem with any of my Vortex scopes. PST Gen 2 3-15s and 1-8 FFP strike eagle.
even after choosing my scope with big thanks to you, I still find every video just as entertaining to watch. Very informative and professionally done. Thank you very much, C_DOES, for giving us as a very clear and descriptive view of what's out there to offer!
PST is the winner! I appreciate what Primary Arms does and they have got plenty of my money, but Vortex PST is definitely the better optic in this case! I trust my Vortex optics, their amazing warranty and fantastic quality, from my Vortex binoculars all the way to my scopes, you can’t beat Vortex!
The deal-maker for me was the Primary Arms Auto Live battey cap for the Nova which allows 20k hrs battery life which truly allows it to replace a red dot. Pick it up in the middle of the night and your ready for action . No messsintg w/dials, no d3ad battery when the moment of truth comes.. Ill sacrifice a litttle optical quality for 50X more battery life and auto on feature
How good is the PST red dot for 1x shooting with both eyes open in bright settings (outdoor with full sun)? Obviously the Nova is brighter, but is the PST dot bright enough to see at 1x with both eyes open?
@@Crypt1q The PST red dot gets a little more washed out in extremely bright conditions but the reticle itself remains perfectly usable. The main thing that I wanted to shed was the extra weight.
I humbly request organizing your videos into playlists by optic types. That is, organizing the finest optic reviews into a catalog I could browse by the optic type I'm interested in.
Thanks for the honest review much appreciated. Have seen a few reviews for the PA Nova and nobody mentioned anything about the clarity in the middle of the range kind of disappointing to hear but it still seems like a great value for the money. I've been looking at the SLx 1-8x or 1-10x FFP for my 16" .308.
Its just what happens unfortunately. There are some great reviewers out there that focus on stuff like that. Unfortunately they are focused around old school forums. Might I recommend the Athlon Helos BTR II 2-12 for your build? Itll allow you to reach out there and touch somebody.
Thank you kindly. If you dont mind bumping up the budget a bit, or getting used. You can get into some Trijicon's or even downsize to a 1-4 like the P4xi.
@@CDOES just what I'm searching for thank you. I may just bump down to 4x bc I'm aiming for the lightweight 1x optimized lpvo... Haven't seen much on it but the Leupold patrol cmr2 seems promising as well
Your video clinched it for me. The prices of the PST II have soared in the 8 months since you put this out. They are $599 everywhere you look now. Even on eBay. I just ordered a clean used one for $440, no mount. That really hurts but I just hate to buy anything made in China if I can avoid it, and the Nova was the only other real choice. Thanks for the great side by side comparison. Pew, pew.
Thanks for the video,it was a great comparison and you looked at some things that you don’t typically evaluate but are important. Regarding the PA clarity at magnification…I’ve had this problem with my PA Nova when trying to shoot for groups at 100 yrds at 6x. I just couldn’t keep the Nova in focus on the target no matter what I did. It was very disappointing especially given how clear the glass is overall. One assessment that would really help, if you evaluated the magnification at 1x while you adjust the diopter. Put the scope on 1x and then adjust the diopter to see what it does to the magnification. Make some assessment if you can still reasonably shoot two eyes open under 30 yards with the scope adjusted for eyes that aren’t perfect. For those of us over 40 that is a huge element of the scopes that no one seems to cover in their reviews. For example my Vortex Razor II works very well and there is virtually no change in the magnification when I adjust it for my eye. However the PA Nova has a significant change in magnification that makes it hard to shoot at 1x with both eyes open. (So much so that I have no use for the scope now) Thanks again for the great videos!
I know precisely what your talking about. Unfortunately some cheaper scopes just arent up to par as some more expensive options. Especially the Razor. The King of SFP LPVO.
Bought the nova for my Bushmaster ACR. Figured it be a good “closer range” scope for coyote hunting. Yes I hunt coyotes with an ACR. For me the weight, cost, and the dot illumination was the factors. The PST is great no doubt but with my ACR being rather heavy (more than an M4) cutting weight is the biggest reason.
Thank you for your reviews. They are very informative and helpful. I’m narrowing down my choice to this PST, Credo, and Delta Stryker. Maybe another. I especially like your garage pew pew segments.
I have the Nova and it seems particularly prone to parallax issues. What I mean by this is if my head isn't perfectly behind the scope at max magnification my groups will really, really show it. I'm talking about shooting at 100+ yards. For the money though it's a pretty decent optic. I literally never use the mid range magnification, I don't see any point in doing so with only 6x on the top end and yes I shoot all the time. I've got like 2k rounds of 5.56 on this optic. I've taken it out to 500m and everything in between. Also, I've definitely noticed the fish eye effect at 1x and I agree with you that it's brighter than it needs to be. I'd love to know where you're finding that PST with a mount for that price. I'd definitely like to get into one of those for that price. Reticle on the nova is probably a bit better but I think both scopes kinda lack in this department. Edit: by the way, I picked up an Athlon 2-12 with the mil reticle based on your recommendation. It should be at my house when I get home. I'm going to mount it on my spr setup when I get off work. Thanks for all the content. I would really love to see a video from you explaining what guns you shoot and why you don't seem to shoot AR15s. They're so cost effective and fun to shoot, I have never understood why you're not into them.
Price as many has suggested with especially with Mil/LEO discounts it is hard to beat for the NOVA for what you get. Not a big fan of the Chinese glass quality but that is the sacrifice you make for a budget optic in this lower price range.
Another great video! Id love to see a review of the PA glx 3-18. I was so hyped on the glx line when you released the 2-10 video but it has since disappeared 😔. Keep up the great work my dude.
On Amazon the Vortex PST II is going for $850 and the Primary Arms NOVA is going for $340. For the price and the features and what I use it for I would go with the NOVA. Just My Thoughts...
Wow thanks so much for this video! I was just about to buy the PA Nova after a ton of research but now I will get the PST II which wasn't even on my radar. It's superior in all the ways important to me, except the dot's not quite as bright but close enough. You hear that Vortex? Send this man his commission 😃
@@ademonsenvy Nice. I ended up putting it off because I heard the Warhorse was coming out and it's supposed to be amazing. Going to check them both out here soon
Good honest review, I use a lot of primary arms and have good thoughts on them but vortex build awesome scope and run them on the ffp long distance rifles I have. They are budget scopes compared to my leupold scopes.
great videos, find it hard to keep track of which sight is where. maybe a little text on each side of the screen would be helpful to me. Anyway excellent comparison you do really good work.
Was debating on the pst vs razor gen 2 e for the last year. Just pulled the trigger on the razor… First LPVO I wanted the best 1x I could get to make the transition from dots/magnifier easier.
@@CDOES Thanks brother. Got a badger ordnance mount for it, love Scalar works mounts for my dots but couldn’t justify the extra 200$ to save one ounce. Weight shouldn’t get too bad cuz night vision is still out of the budget so shouldn’t have much else weighing down the rifle 😂. Excited to mount the scope tonight and test it Monday!
I really ejoy your channel. But, it seems the most important question is really only answered over time mixed with harsh use in harsh weather. Fogging or leakage is a big thing. Thats why i really appreciate Desert Dog Outdors and what he says about Nightforce. I still really your content, thanks
We need a gen 3 viper 1-6/8 with great illumination and a GLX with better glass and build quality for $500-600. I've got a 13.9" AR that's waiting for a better midrange LPVO than the market is offering. I just can't bring myself to spend the money for a trijicon, but I don't want something that's old tech (Illumination, battery life, reticle, glass) like the viperor lesser build quality like the primary arms.
Dude I've been wanting a PST since your first review. I got another Aimpoint Pro on the way. Next on the list is a G45 magnifier and then an ACOG but bro after that I'm getting one. Man ACOGs aint cheap but damn they loom so freaking cool
@CDOES OH dang that sucks. I got a couple M16A4 builds. The Windham Weaponry is gonna keep the carry handle but the Colt is getting an ACOG. Thanks for the awesome reviews bro. I've learned alot from your channel.
Interestingly enough up here in Canada, the PST Gen 2 is actually more than twice the price of the Nova. Your comparison in this video is great, but at least up here I think the Nova is hard to beat for the money
Both are unbelievable value for the money. But the distortion is enough for me to push someone towards a still cheap scope with a flatter image being the pst. Also I've run 4 pst's hard and they have never failed me.
With a MIL account the Nova is $214 new from PA (w/Free shipping). I’ve owned everything from NF 1-8s, RZR 1-10 / PST 1-6, Trij, etc… and now having owned the Nova I am convinced it is hands down the GOAT budget LPVO. It performs like something that should cost $800+. As far as ruggedness and durability, time will tell, but PA has a solid reputation of at least not building super fragile optics.
I just picked one up for this price. Should be here in a day or two so we shall see. Like others have said, seemingly hard to beat for this price. And if it doesn’t live up to my expectations, I won’t be out loads of money.
Love it dude. Great comp. I have 3 PST’s and have been debating picking up a Nova. I have a P4Xi too that sits in a similar space but that glass is arguably better than both 🤷🏼♂️
Seems like a waste of money if you already have all of that. I bought a Nova and took it right the hell back off and put my older Trjicon 1-4 back on. If you have the Steiner you've already won the scope battle.
@@gator7082 I had a few SLX's, and I'm not a scope/glass snob. Even a Strike Eagle, the Viper PST is better for sure. Probably wouldn't be bad for a cheaper build, or something you don't want to spend a ton on.
@@gator7082 yea no doubt. I’ve been more seriously considering a Razor or the Leupold Patrol or the new Steiner FFP 1-6. The PST is tough to beat and the Steiner is great too
Really good video. Very cool how well you captured the clarity of the class through a camera. I can appreciate the time it took to make this. I'm searching for my first LPVO (just prepping for apocalyptic measures -- nothing combat-oriented or anything). I'm curious if a cross hair with a bright dot is enough, or if one is spending the money, get a fancy scope with the lines and such... Then I have to wonder if I'm splitting hairs for no real-needed reason.
Decide on its intended role. What distances are you going to be engaging to? if under a couple hundred meters, a simple red dot may suffice. Either way, the best optic for you is the one you train with. I find the complex reticles to be more of a distraction anyway.
Usually we as humans over complicate everything to a degree that usually makes us sick. I am guilty of this. The nova is still very new to know if it tll hold up long term like the pst. I have heard only at the rarest of times of pst failure. And even then it's very limited.
As an update, I'll say that I did go with the Nova. I think it's beautiful -- and you can't beat the warranty. The scope offers more information than I'll probably need for my goals, and the dot is just so crisp. I love how the lines and the dot are slim, so as to not cover too much of the target (the ACSS reticle seemed like it was thick and more prone to covering the target). The only complaints I would really bring up are the fact that you have to spin left to zoom in (purely a preference thing), and how on the edges of the scope at 1x, it does seem to warp the image. But it is very minor, and may not even be a thing in a real situation. Regardless, I don't regret a singular cent.
@@downanddirtytruth I got the Nova too for an AR10 build. I am really happy with it so far. I like that it functions much like a red dot at 1x. Minor distortion with both eyes open. Very quick sight IMO. Congrats!
The pst is twice the price. You can get a nova on sale with a mount thru an affiliate link for 300$. Everywhere i see the pst is 599$ without a mount. Im not saying the pst might not be slightly better but for the price difference and the pst being 5 ounces heavier. The next big step up would be a trijicon credo hx 1-6 sfp or delta stryker hd 1-6. But those are about 850$ plus a nice mount about 150$ your talking over a grand after tax.
July 5 here and i just rewatched this video. Your reviews are top 3 the best on RUclips. I once would buy "budget" things but the last few years stopped and switched to Saving and getting exactly what i wanted. Sold every thing that didnt need and saved for a year and a half for a quality AR and Optic (Aimpoint). The Vortex has a proven track record with Quality glass and unbeatable warranty. Buy once cry once
Just bought the PA Nova. The PST was $100 WITHOUT a mount or throw lever anywhere I looked. I got the NOVA for $425 OTD with a mount. I prefer the NOVA’s ranging apparatus as well. I wish I could have the proven quality of the PST, but when you’re counting Pennie’s you do what you can. If I were to ever find the need or desire to upgrade, then I’ll save for a big brand like EoTech, Trijicon, or Nightforce etc.
When you have them at the indicated 3x in stills comparo the Nova is actually more accurate looking at the reticles. PST is 4x-ish. I'd witness mark the actually halfway point so you can do double value ranging.
Just got a Nova in last week. Haven’t put it on my rifle yet but just walking around the house, the eye box seems much tighter and less forgiving than the Gen III scopes. But with my mil discount, I got the Nova for $230 shipped.
PST is usually 500 by itself but if you get a deal then yes you can get one for 450. By deal I mean you know someone. If you are looking at the Nova then you probably aren't thinking shelling out for the PST. PS. Even used I wasn't seeing the Viper PST for 450. Usually 500 or more.
Based on the first reviews I bought one of the novas. Die offcenter sharpness and the loss of image quality at slightly offcenter head angle is giving me headaches. The dot stays visible way out in the scope shadow, but parallax becomes extreme at this point. I compared the thing to a Burris RT6, a burris 4 XE, a delta hornet, PST, Delta stryker and the cheaper Vortex, I suppose its the strike eagle. I also looked at PAs gen 3 scope. In the end I must say I dont know why I watch reviews any more. I think if you put a "for the price" behind every sentence ok. My conclusion is, the only really good LPVO that does what the tag LPVO implies (a compact not to heavy optic with useable 1x that is also comfortable to use) under 1000 dollars / euros is the Delta stryker. The PST is good also, but too heavy in my mind (150g more than the stryker). The other offering all have their selling points and can be good in their own regard. But they have disadvantages in many other aspects: one is too heavy, one has unuseable brightness, one has a tiny eyebox and so on. The Holosun hm3x with a cheap holosun reddot has a finer dot, a better 1x and an image with higher contrast and sharpness and eyebox than most offerings sub 500 dollars. It has slightly worse light transmission, the dot adds a tint and is has no bdc, yes. But the clarity and contrast make up for it. The image is much more vivid. The Nova is very good in that respect when you are completely static and have a perfect cheek rest. But go off center a tiny bit and it sucks. Moreover the 3x is really not a 3x. Compare to the others you have to get to around 3,4x magnification on the nova to get close to the others at 3x. So if you are in the market for an lpvo look closely at these exceptional videos C does makes and choose wisely. If you know what you plan to do with it and are on a budget, look for the features you need the most. Of you want all around spend the money. For me that disqualifies the most budget lpvo offerings: For a better magnified image and a true 1x I would choose a magnifier. For higher magnification I would choose an optic with higher magnification. Even a 3-9 with a larger front lens will have higher magnification, is often lighter, has clearer glass and better light transmission.
I'd buy the one with the best lifetime warranty including their electronics which excludes SIG and Trijicon and Nightforce and Steiner and Zeiss and Bushnell and Delta Optical removed off the list of brands to buy.
@ 2:30 ----> Position of the throw lever on the PS-T is a moot point... The PS-T lever can be rotated to suit, the NOVA is fixed. * EDIT - and I would NEVER buy a Chi-com scope for anything other than plinking... Competition and defensive/combat use, no f'n way. 🙄
Great review once again. I was looking fwd to compare these 2. Btw, I don't hear it from your video, which one is better for people w/ astigmatism? I tried PST 2 at the store and couldn't see the illumination as solid red dot. Never tried Nova but after chatting with their rep, I was told Nova uses fiber optic so it will stay solid red even if I have astigmatism. Can you pls comment on that or confirm it? Thanks.
Great comparison with fantastic image shots. No doubt in my eye that the PST has superior clarity and sharpness particularly when you demonstrated the slightly off-center view. Otherwise, they are pretty close, but the PA might be a hair brighter. Do you know anything about Vortex's new Venom 1-6X24 LPVO? Some are saying that its glass is superior to the Strike Eagle's and close to the Viper's at a much lower price point.
I was about to buy the Viper PST Gen II until I saw an open box Gen IV Nova with an enhanced Aero Precision mount (since the ones they were making before were too weak and were breaking lol) for $300. I figure it's cheap enough and 'tricky enough' to just that this will tell me whether I'm even interested LPVO's or not
Seems like the version of PST that I can find right now is $500 for a demo model without a mount, 600 for standard. If you need to buy 5 of these, thats 500-1000 dollars difference. Would really love a PST with a little less weight even at the same price.
The image doesn’t stay as sharp and clear is funny considering those two optics are in 2 different price brackets . It would be a better comparison by using the 1-8x24 strike eagle to the PA Nova
Luckily, with a lpvo, most people either run 1x or full magnification, and rarely use the in-between magnification. +1 for Nova for brightness, weight, reticle and value.
@FMDad-dm5qo the only LPVO it makes sense for me to go 3-4x is my FFP 1-6 since the subtensions remain accurate throughout the magnification range. My SFP lpvo is either at 1x or full magnification. So, it will be user specific, but outside of competition, most people I've spoken and interacted with either run at 1x or full magnification, especially on an SFP lpvo. It's quicker to just crank it all the way to one side than to try and get it to a specific magnification.
Without spending days or weeks looking for a used one, the PST II seems to cost pretty much twice what the Nova does right this sec. Pretty impressive.
If it’s too bright to see the dot, you can see the reticle itself. If it’s too dark to see the reticle, you’re going to want a dim enough dot that you can see the target.
Given the quality of the nova is the sig tango MSR still at least servicavle? Didnt know about the nova when i bought it as a backup in case anything happens to my PST gen 2.
Hey C that was an awesome video extenemly relevant for LPVO buyers. Your video on the Trijicon Credo HD 1-6x sold me on that optic and I happily rock that on my set up. Wondering your thoughts if we throw that optic into the mix, beyond the price difference, mainly since reticles are very similar.
You got it bro. I might bring it into the fold of showing off some of the best scopes from different tiers side by side to really help illustrate the differences.
I'm going to borrow my friends to do Smythe side by side with. From what I tenebrex if the RT6 it's a attender performer for the price. Feel and fit/finish are going to be very close. It'll make for a good comparison
Is there anything else you'd recommend comparing the PST to before making a decision? I've researched competitors to it around the same price point but haven't found much.
Which would you chose, and why?
How could I choose? Whatever sale price is lower most likely 😂😂
I like my primary arms scope. Weight certainly is a thing I am watching on my build, for the 5oz difference you get nicer controls, and the illumination shut off in every position is neat as well. I would rather go for the PST, considering the weight, throw lever, and difference in illumination in mind.
The PA Nova has some great features but for me it’s now collecting dust in my safe. I’ll probably give it to my son. I would like to try the PST II but hate to spend the money on it unless I know what the magnification at 1x looks like with the diopter adjusted for my eye. If I can’t find that I may just buy another Razor II 1-6.
@@mavrikmavrik3032 owning multiple razors sounds like a good problem to have
@@CDOES Yeah, as far as function goes they work great for me but…there is so much variety out there. It’s simply not as nice as having a variety of things (as long as they work just as well).
C_DOES what my wallet don’t.
Your observations on quality of picture when the eye is slightly off center is an example of why I rely on your channel. (About 6:00). Thanks!
I don’t know what PA is doing with their glass but I’ve noticed the exact thing in an older Gen 3 SLx 1-6, GLx 4-16, and even some on the PLxC 1-8. I do not have that problem with any of my Vortex scopes. PST Gen 2 3-15s and 1-8 FFP strike eagle.
even after choosing my scope with big thanks to you, I still find every video just as entertaining to watch. Very informative and professionally done. Thank you very much, C_DOES, for giving us as a very clear and descriptive view of what's out there to offer!
Very much obliged! Im happy to make you happy, friendo!
C_DOES: makes extremely professional, well filmed, well voiced videos
also C_DOES: "Pew! Pew! Pewpew! Pew!"
I love it.
The Pew Pews in the background are killing me 😂😂😂
Pew Pew!
PST is the winner! I appreciate what Primary Arms does and they have got plenty of my money, but Vortex PST is definitely the better optic in this case! I trust my Vortex optics, their amazing warranty and fantastic quality, from my Vortex binoculars all the way to my scopes, you can’t beat Vortex!
Sooo heavy though
This is a great format. Professional but still creative and personalized. Nicely done
Thank you kindly.
The deal-maker for me was the Primary Arms Auto Live battey cap for the Nova which allows 20k hrs battery life which truly allows it to replace a red dot. Pick it up in the middle of the night and your ready for action . No messsintg w/dials, no d3ad battery when the moment of truth comes.. Ill sacrifice a litttle optical quality for 50X more battery life and auto on feature
Does it have an etched reticle?
Outstanding video man. The breakdowns you do, nobody talks about. Excited for the 6x magnifier video.
Much obliged!
I own both and I choose the Nova for the weight savings and because I typically only use 1X or 6X.
Great comparison, thanks.
Absolutely fair points!
How good is the PST red dot for 1x shooting with both eyes open in bright settings (outdoor with full sun)? Obviously the Nova is brighter, but is the PST dot bright enough to see at 1x with both eyes open?
@@Crypt1q The PST red dot gets a little more washed out in extremely bright conditions but the reticle itself remains perfectly usable. The main thing that I wanted to shed was the extra weight.
thats how i think. but maybe Im looking for another option. still not really finished with my research.
but that sfp fibre is growing on me
@@ulrikerudel6859 i bet you ended up going with the pst didnt you ahahah
I have a Nova and like it alot. But the video makes it clear to see that the PST superior glass does justify it's price tag
Sometimes things are worth it. the NOVA is still worth the cheaper price point.
@@CDOES 100%. It's sitting on my 16" Aero build. Took it to 600yards no problem last week. Shout out thunder valley precision in kimbolton Ohio
I wish the PST was SFP
It’s also 200$ more then the nova 😅
I humbly request organizing your videos into playlists by optic types. That is, organizing the finest optic reviews into a catalog I could browse by the optic type I'm interested in.
Thanks for the honest review much appreciated. Have seen a few reviews for the PA Nova and nobody mentioned anything about the clarity in the middle of the range kind of disappointing to hear but it still seems like a great value for the money. I've been looking at the SLx 1-8x or 1-10x FFP for my 16" .308.
Its just what happens unfortunately. There are some great reviewers out there that focus on stuff like that. Unfortunately they are focused around old school forums. Might I recommend the Athlon Helos BTR II 2-12 for your build? Itll allow you to reach out there and touch somebody.
@@CDOES Appreciate the recommendation I will check it out! Thanks!
Feel like these side by side comparisons convey the most understanding, that was very helpful. I need to go looking for a third option now...
Thank you kindly. If you dont mind bumping up the budget a bit, or getting used. You can get into some Trijicon's or even downsize to a 1-4 like the P4xi.
@@CDOES just what I'm searching for thank you. I may just bump down to 4x bc I'm aiming for the lightweight 1x optimized lpvo... Haven't seen much on it but the Leupold patrol cmr2 seems promising as well
If you're only going to a 4x, then I would just use redot and magnifier combo.
Your video clinched it for me. The prices of the PST II have soared in the 8 months since you put this out. They are $599 everywhere you look now. Even on eBay. I just ordered a clean used one for $440, no mount. That really hurts but I just hate to buy anything made in China if I can avoid it, and the Nova was the only other real choice. Thanks for the great side by side comparison. Pew, pew.
😭 I'm part of the price problem
Such a clear and well demonstrated video. Really good info for buyers
Im glad you Liiikkeee :D
PST is more durable per Focus Tripp's drop tests, if ruggedness is a concern
Thanks for the video,it was a great comparison and you looked at some things that you don’t typically evaluate but are important.
Regarding the PA clarity at magnification…I’ve had this problem with my PA Nova when trying to shoot for groups at 100 yrds at 6x. I just couldn’t keep the Nova in focus on the target no matter what I did. It was very disappointing especially given how clear the glass is overall.
One assessment that would really help, if you evaluated the magnification at 1x while you adjust the diopter. Put the scope on 1x and then adjust the diopter to see what it does to the magnification. Make some assessment if you can still reasonably shoot two eyes open under 30 yards with the scope adjusted for eyes that aren’t perfect. For those of us over 40 that is a huge element of the scopes that no one seems to cover in their reviews. For example my Vortex Razor II works very well and there is virtually no change in the magnification when I adjust it for my eye. However the PA Nova has a significant change in magnification that makes it hard to shoot at 1x with both eyes open. (So much so that I have no use for the scope now)
Thanks again for the great videos!
I know precisely what your talking about. Unfortunately some cheaper scopes just arent up to par as some more expensive options. Especially the Razor. The King of SFP LPVO.
Bought the nova for my Bushmaster ACR. Figured it be a good “closer range” scope for coyote hunting. Yes I hunt coyotes with an ACR. For me the weight, cost, and the dot illumination was the factors. The PST is great no doubt but with my ACR being rather heavy (more than an M4) cutting weight is the biggest reason.
Always a great use of time watching these
Thank you
Every scope and sight I ever purchased this man has reviewed. Big ups
Thank you for your reviews. They are very informative and helpful. I’m narrowing down my choice to this PST, Credo, and Delta Stryker. Maybe another. I especially like your garage pew pew segments.
Those are the 3 I'm between right now as well. What did you go with?
I have the Nova and it seems particularly prone to parallax issues. What I mean by this is if my head isn't perfectly behind the scope at max magnification my groups will really, really show it. I'm talking about shooting at 100+ yards.
For the money though it's a pretty decent optic. I literally never use the mid range magnification, I don't see any point in doing so with only 6x on the top end and yes I shoot all the time. I've got like 2k rounds of 5.56 on this optic. I've taken it out to 500m and everything in between. Also, I've definitely noticed the fish eye effect at 1x and I agree with you that it's brighter than it needs to be.
I'd love to know where you're finding that PST with a mount for that price. I'd definitely like to get into one of those for that price.
Reticle on the nova is probably a bit better but I think both scopes kinda lack in this department.
Edit: by the way, I picked up an Athlon 2-12 with the mil reticle based on your recommendation. It should be at my house when I get home. I'm going to mount it on my spr setup when I get off work. Thanks for all the content.
I would really love to see a video from you explaining what guns you shoot and why you don't seem to shoot AR15s. They're so cost effective and fun to shoot, I have never understood why you're not into them.
My experience as well with the optic under magnification.
@@mavrikmavrik3032 Interesting. I figured mine might be a one off in that regard.
Price as many has suggested with especially with Mil/LEO discounts it is hard to beat for the NOVA for what you get. Not a big fan of the Chinese glass quality but that is the sacrifice you make for a budget optic in this lower price range.
Precisely why I brought it up. Price is the biggest factory for many. But if your looking for the objectively better scope, its the PST.
10/10 very realistic sound effects.
Thank you, been looking at both for awhile. This gave me the info I needed to make my mind up. Again thanks 👍
No problemo
Another great video! Id love to see a review of the PA glx 3-18. I was so hyped on the glx line when you released the 2-10 video but it has since disappeared 😔.
Keep up the great work my dude.
I have yet to get my hands on the glx 2.5-10. One of these days EVENTUALLY ill get one.
On Amazon the Vortex PST II is going for $850 and the Primary Arms NOVA is going for $340. For the price and the features and what I use it for I would go with the NOVA. Just My Thoughts...
I bought a brand new PST II 1-6 for 450 just three days ago.
@@ianaurilin2727 From whom? Link please.
Just picked up a PA SLx 1-6x Nova for $288 (Black Friday/Cyber Monday sale, 2024). BF/CM deals have become pretty underwhelming now.
Well thank you for confirming my desire to get the PST over the NOVA
Mint
Wow thanks so much for this video! I was just about to buy the PA Nova after a ton of research but now I will get the PST II which wasn't even on my radar. It's superior in all the ways important to me, except the dot's not quite as bright but close enough. You hear that Vortex? Send this man his commission 😃
Same
@@ademonsenvy - Look into the new Swampfox Warhorse as well. Their first FFP lvpo.
@@ikigai47 I’ve already ordered my vortex viper I love it 😂 got that and a mount for 500$ seemed like a good deal
@@ademonsenvy Nice. I ended up putting it off because I heard the Warhorse was coming out and it's supposed to be amazing. Going to check them both out here soon
Good honest review, I use a lot of primary arms and have good thoughts on them but vortex build awesome scope and run them on the ffp long distance rifles I have. They are budget scopes compared to my leupold scopes.
great videos, find it hard to keep track of which sight is where. maybe a little text on each side of the screen would be helpful to me. Anyway excellent comparison you do really good work.
PST left, NOVA right.
Very good review! I chose the Nova. Thanks
Was debating on the pst vs razor gen 2 e for the last year. Just pulled the trigger on the razor… First LPVO I wanted the best 1x I could get to make the transition from dots/magnifier easier.
You got about as good as you can get man. It might be a bit heavy still. But what a start!
@@CDOES Thanks brother. Got a badger ordnance mount for it, love Scalar works mounts for my dots but couldn’t justify the extra 200$ to save one ounce. Weight shouldn’t get too bad cuz night vision is still out of the budget so shouldn’t have much else weighing down the rifle 😂. Excited to mount the scope tonight and test it Monday!
I would love to see the nova reticle and illumination in Japanese glass mabye even the plx-c body like a plx-c 1-6 nova
I really ejoy your channel. But, it seems the most important question is really only answered over time mixed with harsh use in harsh weather. Fogging or leakage is a big thing. Thats why i really appreciate Desert Dog Outdors and what he says about Nightforce.
I still really your content, thanks
We need a gen 3 viper 1-6/8 with great illumination and a GLX with better glass and build quality for $500-600.
I've got a 13.9" AR that's waiting for a better midrange LPVO than the market is offering. I just can't bring myself to spend the money for a trijicon, but I don't want something that's old tech (Illumination, battery life, reticle, glass) like the viperor lesser build quality like the primary arms.
Dude I've been wanting a PST since your first review. I got another Aimpoint Pro on the way. Next on the list is a G45 magnifier and then an ACOG but bro after that I'm getting one. Man ACOGs aint cheap but damn they loom so freaking cool
Acog's aint all what they are cracked up to be. A TA33 that I just got in had to get sent back to Triji to get checked out.
@CDOES OH dang that sucks. I got a couple M16A4 builds. The Windham Weaponry is gonna keep the carry handle but the Colt is getting an ACOG. Thanks for the awesome reviews bro. I've learned alot from your channel.
@@CDOES I also have a Sig Tango MSR 1-8. How much better is the Viper PST 1-6
My ACOG TA32 GH is awesome. Running a 45 degree RMR HD as well. Beautiful.
Interestingly enough up here in Canada, the PST Gen 2 is actually more than twice the price of the Nova. Your comparison in this video is great, but at least up here I think the Nova is hard to beat for the money
Both are unbelievable value for the money. But the distortion is enough for me to push someone towards a still cheap scope with a flatter image being the pst. Also I've run 4 pst's hard and they have never failed me.
When something is good, its good.
With a MIL account the Nova is $214 new from PA (w/Free shipping). I’ve owned everything from NF 1-8s, RZR 1-10 / PST 1-6, Trij, etc… and now having owned the Nova I am convinced it is hands down the GOAT budget LPVO. It performs like something that should cost $800+. As far as ruggedness and durability, time will tell, but PA has a solid reputation of at least not building super fragile optics.
For that price they are definitely hard to beat.
I just picked one up for this price. Should be here in a day or two so we shall see. Like others have said, seemingly hard to beat for this price. And if it doesn’t live up to my expectations, I won’t be out loads of money.
What’s an MIL account?
@@pewbellina3983military discount man, primary arms and Vortex optics are dirt cheap for us.
Military/LEO account
Love it dude. Great comp. I have 3 PST’s and have been debating picking up a Nova. I have a P4Xi too that sits in a similar space but that glass is arguably better than both 🤷🏼♂️
I love my p4xi.
Seems like a waste of money if you already have all of that. I bought a Nova and took it right the hell back off and put my older Trjicon 1-4 back on. If you have the Steiner you've already won the scope battle.
@@gator7082 I had a few SLX's, and I'm not a scope/glass snob. Even a Strike Eagle, the Viper PST is better for sure. Probably wouldn't be bad for a cheaper build, or something you don't want to spend a ton on.
@@gator7082 yea no doubt. I’ve been more seriously considering a Razor or the Leupold Patrol or the new Steiner FFP 1-6. The PST is tough to beat and the Steiner is great too
I bought a P4Xi last year from eurooptic when the G1 reticle version price dropped. I’ve been quite happy with it.
Thanks for the comparison!
My pleasure
Really good video. Very cool how well you captured the clarity of the class through a camera. I can appreciate the time it took to make this.
I'm searching for my first LPVO (just prepping for apocalyptic measures -- nothing combat-oriented or anything). I'm curious if a cross hair with a bright dot is enough, or if one is spending the money, get a fancy scope with the lines and such...
Then I have to wonder if I'm splitting hairs for no real-needed reason.
Decide on its intended role. What distances are you going to be engaging to? if under a couple hundred meters, a simple red dot may suffice. Either way, the best optic for you is the one you train with. I find the complex reticles to be more of a distraction anyway.
Usually we as humans over complicate everything to a degree that usually makes us sick. I am guilty of this. The nova is still very new to know if it tll hold up long term like the pst. I have heard only at the rarest of times of pst failure. And even then it's very limited.
As an update, I'll say that I did go with the Nova. I think it's beautiful -- and you can't beat the warranty. The scope offers more information than I'll probably need for my goals, and the dot is just so crisp. I love how the lines and the dot are slim, so as to not cover too much of the target (the ACSS reticle seemed like it was thick and more prone to covering the target).
The only complaints I would really bring up are the fact that you have to spin left to zoom in (purely a preference thing), and how on the edges of the scope at 1x, it does seem to warp the image. But it is very minor, and may not even be a thing in a real situation.
Regardless, I don't regret a singular cent.
@@downanddirtytruth I am happy you are happy!
@@downanddirtytruth I got the Nova too for an AR10 build. I am really happy with it so far. I like that it functions much like a red dot at 1x. Minor distortion with both eyes open. Very quick sight IMO. Congrats!
The pst is twice the price. You can get a nova on sale with a mount thru an affiliate link for 300$. Everywhere i see the pst is 599$ without a mount. Im not saying the pst might not be slightly better but for the price difference and the pst being 5 ounces heavier. The next big step up would be a trijicon credo hx 1-6 sfp or delta stryker hd 1-6. But those are about 850$ plus a nice mount about 150$ your talking over a grand after tax.
I particularly like the "pew pew" noises. It makes the run that much better and realistic. More pew pew.
July 5 here and i just rewatched this video. Your reviews are top 3 the best on RUclips.
I once would buy "budget" things but the last few years stopped and switched to Saving and getting exactly what i wanted.
Sold every thing that didnt need and saved for a year and a half for a quality AR and Optic (Aimpoint).
The Vortex has a proven track record with Quality glass and unbeatable warranty.
Buy once cry once
Just bought the PA Nova. The PST was $100 WITHOUT a mount or throw lever anywhere I looked. I got the NOVA for $425 OTD with a mount. I prefer the NOVA’s ranging apparatus as well. I wish I could have the proven quality of the PST, but when you’re counting Pennie’s you do what you can. If I were to ever find the need or desire to upgrade, then I’ll save for a big brand like EoTech, Trijicon, or Nightforce etc.
If you stop saying "Pew!" I'll unsubscribe
Me: staring intently at my screen to take in all the information carefully
C_DOES: pew!…. pew, pew
When you have them at the indicated 3x in stills comparo the Nova is actually more accurate looking at the reticles. PST is 4x-ish. I'd witness mark the actually halfway point so you can do double value ranging.
Just got a Nova in last week. Haven’t put it on my rifle yet but just walking around the house, the eye box seems much tighter and less forgiving than the Gen III scopes. But with my mil discount, I got the Nova for $230 shipped.
That price is hard to beat.
Which optics image stays sharper during dynamic transition. The primary arms or the Sig MSR
You're trying to start a fight here and I' all for it lmao.
I'd love an LPVO with crosshairs like this but with a larger illuminated segmented ring. It would be half way between the StrikeEagle & PST.
9:33 Is the PST on the left? It seems the Nova has a much clearer image overall? Especially the grasses.
PST is usually 500 by itself but if you get a deal then yes you can get one for 450. By deal I mean you know someone.
If you are looking at the Nova then you probably aren't thinking shelling out for the PST.
PS. Even used I wasn't seeing the Viper PST for 450. Usually 500 or more.
Very detailed review. Great job keep it up.
Based on the first reviews I bought one of the novas. Die offcenter sharpness and the loss of image quality at slightly offcenter head angle is giving me headaches. The dot stays visible way out in the scope shadow, but parallax becomes extreme at this point.
I compared the thing to a Burris RT6, a burris 4 XE, a delta hornet, PST, Delta stryker and the cheaper Vortex, I suppose its the strike eagle. I also looked at PAs gen 3 scope. In the end I must say I dont know why I watch reviews any more. I think if you put a "for the price" behind every sentence ok.
My conclusion is, the only really good LPVO that does what the tag LPVO implies (a compact not to heavy optic with useable 1x that is also comfortable to use) under 1000 dollars / euros is the Delta stryker. The PST is good also, but too heavy in my mind (150g more than the stryker). The other offering all have their selling points and can be good in their own regard. But they have disadvantages in many other aspects: one is too heavy, one has unuseable brightness, one has a tiny eyebox and so on.
The Holosun hm3x with a cheap holosun reddot has a finer dot, a better 1x and an image with higher contrast and sharpness and eyebox than most offerings sub 500 dollars. It has slightly worse light transmission, the dot adds a tint and is has no bdc, yes. But the clarity and contrast make up for it. The image is much more vivid.
The Nova is very good in that respect when you are completely static and have a perfect cheek rest. But go off center a tiny bit and it sucks. Moreover the 3x is really not a 3x. Compare to the others you have to get to around 3,4x magnification on the nova to get close to the others at 3x.
So if you are in the market for an lpvo look closely at these exceptional videos C does makes and choose wisely. If you know what you plan to do with it and are on a budget, look for the features you need the most. Of you want all around spend the money.
For me that disqualifies the most budget lpvo offerings: For a better magnified image and a true 1x I would choose a magnifier. For higher magnification I would choose an optic with higher magnification. Even a 3-9 with a larger front lens will have higher magnification, is often lighter, has clearer glass and better light transmission.
I'd buy the one with the best lifetime warranty including their electronics which excludes SIG and Trijicon and Nightforce and Steiner and Zeiss and Bushnell and Delta Optical removed off the list of brands to buy.
Thank you for making this video!
@ 2:30 ----> Position of the throw lever on the PS-T is a moot point... The PS-T lever can be rotated to suit, the NOVA is fixed.
* EDIT - and I would NEVER buy a Chi-com scope for anything other than plinking... Competition and defensive/combat use, no f'n way. 🙄
PA has the Nova on sale for $288. The cheapest I could find the PST was $506
I really like the Nova glass clarity
Awesome review, thank you!
Great review once again. I was looking fwd to compare these 2.
Btw, I don't hear it from your video, which one is better for people w/ astigmatism?
I tried PST 2 at the store and couldn't see the illumination as solid red dot. Never tried Nova but after chatting with their rep, I was told Nova uses fiber optic so it will stay solid red even if I have astigmatism. Can you pls comment on that or confirm it? Thanks.
I would say the NOVA might be a touch clearer at the lower intensity.
I know Nova might be brighter. Are you saying people with Astigmatism will have problem with Nova?
Curious if the pst in mrad or Moa? The stadia marks between the nova and the pst seem very different.
Great comparison with fantastic image shots. No doubt in my eye that the PST has superior clarity and sharpness particularly when you demonstrated the slightly off-center view. Otherwise, they are pretty close, but the PA might be a hair brighter. Do you know anything about Vortex's new Venom 1-6X24 LPVO? Some are saying that its glass is superior to the Strike Eagle's and close to the Viper's at a much lower price point.
Those pew pews had me laughing my ass off. Good vid
pa looks like it has noticeably more parallax too. i like both, so far only have vortex mainly for warranty and access to discount.
I was about to buy the Viper PST Gen II until I saw an open box Gen IV Nova with an enhanced Aero Precision mount (since the ones they were making before were too weak and were breaking lol) for $300. I figure it's cheap enough and 'tricky enough' to just that this will tell me whether I'm even interested LPVO's or not
Great video brotha
Pew Pew!
AWESOME review! Subscribed!
Bit of a weird idea but, could the off center sharpness issue on the Nova be used to help avoid parallax issues?
I honestly can't doubt anything at this point.
With the upcoming release of the autolive cap, the in-between off and on brightness settings on the PST becomes insignificant
Indeed. Every scope produced today should have shake awake. It can't be that expensive that it cuts into profits that much..
Seems like the version of PST that I can find right now is $500 for a demo model without a mount, 600 for standard. If you need to buy 5 of these, thats 500-1000 dollars difference. Would really love a PST with a little less weight even at the same price.
loving the pew pew sound effects
The image doesn’t stay as sharp and clear is funny considering those two optics are in 2 different price brackets . It would be a better comparison by using the 1-8x24 strike eagle to the PA Nova
Luckily, with a lpvo, most people either run 1x or full magnification, and rarely use the in-between magnification. +1 for Nova for brightness, weight, reticle and value.
In sports, the most popular increase is 3-4
Nah, these are generalist reticles and I use the PST more at 3x-4x than any other setting except 1x.
@Dikpole in that role, one can make an argument for 3-4x it seems.
@FMDad-dm5qo the only LPVO it makes sense for me to go 3-4x is my FFP 1-6 since the subtensions remain accurate throughout the magnification range. My SFP lpvo is either at 1x or full magnification. So, it will be user specific, but outside of competition, most people I've spoken and interacted with either run at 1x or full magnification, especially on an SFP lpvo. It's quicker to just crank it all the way to one side than to try and get it to a specific magnification.
@@FNPNick Personal experience
This was very helpful as with all your reviews! Have you looked into the Accufire Atro-20?
I like the reticles in both scopes. Will either scope hold up to a .308?
C_DOES is the best product reviewer in all of YT.
He has cost me thousands! But worth every penny!!
Without spending days or weeks looking for a used one, the PST II seems to cost pretty much twice what the Nova does right this sec. Pretty impressive.
If it’s too bright to see the dot, you can see the reticle itself. If it’s too dark to see the reticle, you’re going to want a dim enough dot that you can see the target.
How far away was the target at 4:51 ?
Excellent review..!
Hey C, is there another lpvo that is comparable to the Vortex in this $500 price range? Or are these two scopes the top two for sub $500 ?
Given the quality of the nova is the sig tango MSR still at least servicavle? Didnt know about the nova when i bought it as a backup in case anything happens to my PST gen 2.
great review
How fo you compare the Nova to the latest Vortex Venom 1-6? Please reply 😊
Hey C that was an awesome video extenemly relevant for LPVO buyers. Your video on the Trijicon Credo HD 1-6x sold me on that optic and I happily rock that on my set up.
Wondering your thoughts if we throw that optic into the mix, beyond the price difference, mainly since reticles are very similar.
You got it bro. I might bring it into the fold of showing off some of the best scopes from different tiers side by side to really help illustrate the differences.
Looking for a lpvo for my 16” Bcm quad rail. Trying to stay under $500. What do you recommend?
Just bought one 320 total with mount ordered Saturday night should come Wednesday
For 215 the Nova is for me I have 4 of them now
Where are you finding them for $215?
@@GearPinchMil discount in Primary arms
Is this the pa4? Saw in another video to be 6oz less than the pst and better wide view.
Besides dot brightness, would you consider the RT6 when looking at the NOVA?
I'm going to borrow my friends to do Smythe side by side with. From what I tenebrex if the RT6 it's a attender performer for the price. Feel and fit/finish are going to be very close. It'll make for a good comparison
Is there anything else you'd recommend comparing the PST to before making a decision? I've researched competitors to it around the same price point but haven't found much.
Look at Focus Tripps Vector Continental 1-6 review. He likes it better than the Viper
Was that a foxbody coupe in the garage
@C_DOES could you eventually review the new Vortex Venom 1-6x please? Seems to be a very good one for its category :)