Multi-role rifles, specifically AR-15s, are becoming increasingly more precise, with their main limiting factor being their sighting systems. Low-power variable optics, or LPVOs, have reigned supreme with these firearms, as they provide a close-quarters solution while also offering a means to place rounds on more distant targets. While the industry has mastered the 1X part of the formula, it is forever working on pushing the number on the other side of the hashmark to keep pace with this pattern’s ever-increasing capabilities. Michigan-based Trijicon has pushed the envelope with its Credo line, now offering a compact unit capable of up to 10X magnification.
Although 10X magnification isn’t particularly “low,” the Trijicon Credo 1-10x28 mm is indeed classified as an LPVO. Turning the rear-mounted magnification ring zooms in or out on the target up to 10 times. As the reticle is set in the first focal plane, it, too, zooms when this ring is adjusted. This allows the subtensions to hold their value under any setting, creating fast-aiming solutions.
Typically, this comes at the cost of thicker crosshairs, but to solve that Trijicon removed the central intersection and replaced it with a fine dot. In the MRAD-based test sample, this measured .145 mil, which only covers about half an inch at 100 yards. Additionally, it can be illuminated with one of five green or red settings by turning the left turret. This also illuminates the four dashes immediately surrounding the central aiming point, as well as the four quadrants that comprise an enlarged aiming ring for short-range targets.
I zeroed the optic and then reset the turrets. This process is completely toolless and is performed by twisting off the knurled cap, slipping the dial and replacing the cap. This left me with 24 mils of additional come-up to dial, plus 30 mils in the reticle, giving more than enough adjustment to reach out beyond most cartridges’ usable range. I “shot the box” and created a target with four ragged holes, showing the optic tracked properly. I then reached out to 500 yards by both dialing and using the crosshairs to connect with the target using both methods. Zooming out, I found the Credo was just as capable inside of 100 yards, and I was able to use the outer ring like a red-dot sight to quickly put lead on steel.
Trijicon’s Credo 1-10x28 mm proved to be an exceptional optic suited to a variety of uses. I enjoyed the extra magnification on the higher end, which helped immensely with picking out smaller targets, while the lower end provided rapid target acquisition for close encounters. Adding one to your favorite gas gun is a no-brainer, yet it would also be at home on a lever- or bolt-action carbine.
