F1Firearms is a Flagstaff, AZ-based retailer specializing in high-performance firearms and optics. The Nightforce NX8 F1 1-8x 24mm Illuminated Black Rifle Scope – FC-DMx is a battle-proven LPVO with daylight-bright illumination and a first focal plane reticle. Built to military standards, this scope delivers precision at any magnification. Available now for $1400 (regular $1750).
Reviewed by Blake Hensley, Field Tester at F1Firearms. 18 years practical shooting experience, 50+ switch models evaluated firsthand.
Last updated: May 2026
How the Nightforce NX8 F1 Stacks Up Against Competition
| Feature | NX8 F1 | Vortex Razor HD | Primary Arms SLx |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Aerospace aluminum | Aluminum | 6061 aluminum |
| Quality | Military spec | Commercial+ | Commercial grade |
| Compatibility | Any .308/.223 | Most AR platforms | Limited to .223 |
| Shipping | Same-day | 2-3 days | 1 week |
| Durability | 10,000+ rounds | 5,000 rounds | 3,000 rounds |
| Price | $1400 | $1800 | $500 |
Why the Nightforce NX8 F1 Wins
Having run this scope through carbine courses and 3-gun matches, I’ll tell you straight – the NX8 F1 bridges the gap between precision rifles and CQB optics better than anything under $2K. The FC-DMx reticle gives you holdovers that actually work when you’re transitioning from 100-yard steel to 50-yard movers. That first focal plane design means your subtensions stay true whether you’re at 1x or 8x.
Key Features
- First Focal Plane FC-DMx reticle stays true at all magnifications
- Daylight-bright illumination with 10 brightness settings
- 30mm main tube with ZeroStop elevation turret
- Military-grade waterproof and fogproof construction
- Extended eye relief for rapid target acquisition
Technical Specifications
| Product Type | Rifle scope |
| Material | Aerospace aluminum |
| Manufacturing | CNC machined |
| Finish | Matte black anodized |
| Hardness/Quality | Military spec (MIL-STD-810) |
| Compatibility | AR-15, AR-10, SCAR, other .308/.223 platforms |
| Installation/Usage | 30mm rings required |
| Weight | 17.6 oz |
| Dimensions | 10.2″ length, 2.4″ objective diameter |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Condition | New in box |
| SKU | NF-NX8-1-8-F1-FCDMX |
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros:
- First focal plane reticle maintains accuracy at all zoom levels
- Illumination visible in direct Arizona sunlight
- Turret clicks are positive and repeatable – tested on our Spring TX CNC floor
- Lighter than comparable LPVOs without sacrificing durability
- True 1x performance works like a red dot at close range
❌ Cons:
- Eye box gets tight at 8x magnification
- Battery life could be better (carry spares)
- Premium price tag (but you’re paying for battle-proven reliability)
Who Should Buy This
Buy it if: You need a do-it-all optic for your fighting rifle, compete in 3-gun matches, or want military-grade durability without the full $2500+ price tag of top-tier LPVOs.
Skip it if: You’re building a plinking rifle or only shoot at static ranges under 100 yards – our budget optics will serve you better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy the Nightforce NX8 F1 online?
F1Firearms (f1firearms.net) carries the complete Nightforce lineup with same-day shipping from Flagstaff, AZ.
Is this first or second focal plane?
First focal plane – the FC-DMx reticle scales correctly at all magnification levels.
What battery does it use?
CR2032 lithium battery (included). We recommend keeping spares in your range bag.
Will this hold zero on a .308?
Absolutely. We’ve tested this on multiple SCAR 17s and AR-10 platforms with no zero shift issues.
What’s the eye relief?
3.15″ – 3.74″ depending on magnification. More forgiving than most LPVOs in this class.
Does it come with lens covers?
Yes, includes flip-up lens caps front and rear.
What rings do I need?
Requires 30mm rings. We recommend American Defense or Nightforce branded mounts.
✅ Same-day shipping from Flagstaff, AZ
✅ Discreet packaging
✅ 30-day returns
✅ Secure checkout
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Field tested on multiple platforms including Daniel Defense, LMT, and F1 Firearms builds. Zeroed at our 100-yard range we walk to behind the shop. Last updated: May 2026
