Monstrum Tactical Scopes: Brand Overview and Archangel ED 1-10× LPVO Review

Monstrum Tactical began in 2008 with a mission to make quality firearm parts and optics affordable. The founders initially built low-cost AR-15 handguards at half the usual price, responding to high demand for budget-friendly gear. Today the California-based company offers a broad line of optics – from red dots and prism sights to LPVO (low-power variable optics) scopes – while keeping prices low. In fact, most Monstrum scopes retail under $250 but try to pack in features found on $1000+ optics. As one reviewer notes, Monstrum scopes “attempt to offer features that high-end $1,000+ scopes provide, with varying degrees of success” – and for the cost-conscious shooter, the value can be compelling.

Monstrum’s latest LPVOs (low power variable optics) compete on specs and extras. For example, their Archangel 1–10×24 FFP LPVO features ED (extra-low dispersion) glass, a piggyback red-dot rail, and a daylight-bright illuminated reticle. The company also offers the Beast series (1–10×, 1–8×, 1–6×) and Panzer series, each with slightly different trade-offs. Below we review the Archangel 1–10× in depth, then compare it with other Monstrum LPVO models, discuss common use cases, buying considerations (FFP vs SFP, reticles, etc.), and how Monstrum stacks up against competitors.

Monstrum Archangel ED 1–10× FFP LPVO Scope: Features & Specs

The Monstrum Archangel 1–10× ED FFP LPVO is a 30 mm tube first-focal-plane scope designed for both close and mid-range shooting. Key features include an ED glass lens for reduced chromatic aberration and vibrant color, a fully multi-coated lens for maximum light transmission, capped metal turrets (for durable zero retention), and an integrated piggyback rail on top for mounting a red-dot sight. The Archangel uses Monstrum’s illuminated “Daytime Bright” Morpheus BDC reticle (available in MIL or MOA versions) that stays accurate at any magnification. An included throw lever makes zooming between 1× and 10× smooth, and Monstrum backs the scope with a lifetime warranty.

In practical terms, the Archangel 1–10×24 has an 11 inch body and delivers eye relief of about 4.0–4.5 inches. Its adjustment range is ±40 MIL (±137 MOA) for both windage and elevation, with 0.2 MIL clicks. At minimum power it provides a true 1× field of view (no parallax at infinity, making close-range target acquisition fast), and it magnifies up to 10× for longer shots. Monstrum advertises a “close to mid-range” effective range (roughly 400+ yards). All this for about $199.95 (street price) makes the Archangel a high-feature, budget-friendly LPVO.

Archangel 1–10× Key Specs:

• Magnification: 1–10×
• Objective: 24 mm
• Reticle: Daytime-bright illuminated Morpheus BDC (MIL or MOA)
• Adjustments: ±40 MIL (0.2 MIL clicks)
• Eye Relief: 4.0–4.5 inches
• Weight: ≈2.25 lb (36 oz)
• Length: 11 in
• Mounting: 30 mm tube (compatible with Picatinny rails)
• Lens: Extra-low-dispersion (ED) glass, multi-coated
• Illumination: Red reticle LED (daylight bright) with 5 settings, battery CR2032 (not explicitly listed, but typically included)
• Warranty: Lifetime
• Price: ~$200

Other Monstrum LPVO Scopes (Beast, Panzer, etc.)

Monstrum’s LPVO lineup also includes the Beast series and Panzer series, which share many features with the Archangel but differ in mount design, weight, and range. A comparison of the 1–10× models illustrates this:

Model	Mag	Obj (mm)	Weight	Adjust Max	Range (yards)	Reticle/Illum.	Price
Archangel 1–10×24	1–10×	24	36 oz (2.25 lb)	±40 MIL (0.2 MIL)	~400+	Morpheus BDC (MIL/MOA), red illumination	~$200
Beast 1–10×24	1–10×	24	17 oz	±40 MIL (±80 MOA, 0.2 MIL)	800+	Morpheus BDC (MIL/MOA) + CM8 Christmas Tree (MOA)	~$200
Panzer 1–10×24	1–10×	24	17 oz (24 oz w/ mount)	±70 MOA (0.5 MOA clicks)	~400+	CM2 BDC (MIL) with red/green illumination	~$200

(Specs from official Monstrum listings.)

From this comparison:

• Weight & Build: The Archangel series (both 1–10× and 1–6× variants) are relatively heavy (2.25 lb) because they integrate a fixed piggyback rail. By contrast, the Beast and Panzer scopes use detachable mounts and weigh ~17–18 oz.
• Magnification & Range: All three models cover 1× to 10×, but the Beast’s reticle calibration is laid out farther. The Beast 1–10× explicitly advertises “800+ yards”, whereas the Archangel and Panzer list about “400+ yards”. In practice, that means the Beast’s holdover mil-dots extend longer (useful for precision or varmint shooting), while the Archangel/Panzer are tuned for more typical mid-range use.
• Reticles: All have illuminated BDC-style reticles. The Archangel uses the Morpheus pattern (in MIL or MOA versions). The Beast offers the same Morpheus options plus a CM8 “Christmas tree” MOA style (denser holdover dots). The Panzer uses a CM2 design optimized for quick 1× hits and longer-range holdovers. The Panzer and Beast both offer dual-color illumination (red/green) unlike the Archangel’s red-only lighting.
• Accessories: The Archangel’s piggyback rail is built-in, whereas the Panzer 1–10× actually includes a high-quality Monstrum offset cantilever mount and flip-up lens covers in the package. This is unusual at $200; for example, the Panzer spec sheet notes “Package includes offset cantilever mount and … flip-up lens covers”. (The Beast/Archangel typically ship without a mount, though some dealers bundle separate mounts.)

Monstrum also offers shorter zoom variants (1–6×, 1–8×) in the same series, sharing many specs. For instance, the Archangel 1–6× weighs the same 2.25 lb and lists ~400+ yards range. A Beast 1–8× weighs 17 oz and lists ~600+ yards. In all cases, Monstrum’s LPVOs trade some optical refinement for value: they use aircraft-grade aluminum, nitrogen-sealed tubes, and brass internals, yet manage to stay affordable.

Use Cases: Tactical, Competition, Hunting

Monstrum LPVOs are versatile optics suited for multiple roles. Their 1× setting with true parallax-free sight picture makes them useful in close-quarters or tactical scenarios (home defense, law enforcement, etc.), while the 10× power lets you engage targets out to a few hundred yards. For competitive shooting (like 3-Gun or low-power rifle matches), a first-focal-plane LPVO allows rapid transitions between close targets (running at 1× with a wide view) and farther targets (zoomed in, using the reticle’s hold dots). The Archangel’s integrated red-dot mount or the Panzer’s offset mount further aid fast target acquisition by letting you co-witness a reflex sight.

For hunting, especially medium-range game (deer, hogs, coyotes), a 1–10× scope offers a good balance of field-of-view and reach. Monstrum notes their LPVOs cover “Close to Mid Range” (400+ yd) engagements. In practice, hunters gain the illuminated reticle advantage for low-light shots, and a clear view up to 800+ yards on the Beast models if needed. The ED glass in the Archangel also helps improve contrast and color fidelity (beneficial for spotting game). However, if you mainly shoot at extremely long distances (600–1000+ yards), dedicated scopes (with higher magnification and finer optics) are usually recommended.

Overall, Monstrum scopes find users in rifle competitions and tactical training, modern sporting rifle (AR) setups for hunting, and any situation where a fast-shooting, variable-power optic is desired on a budget. Their illuminated first-focal-plane reticles (in MIL or MOA) help both ranging and quick aim, and many shooters mount them on AR-15/AR-10 platforms or similar.

Buying Considerations: FFP vs SFP, Reticles, Durability, Glass, Price

When choosing a Monstrum (or any scope), consider these key factors:

• First Focal Plane vs Second Focal Plane: All of Monstrum’s current LPVOs are FFP. In an FFP scope, the reticle is placed in front of the zoom lens, so the reticle scales with magnification. That means a subtension (e.g. a 1 MOA hashmark) always subtends the same angle no matter the zoom. The advantage is holdovers and range estimates stay correct at any magnification, which is great for long-range shooting. The trade-off is that the reticle can appear very thick or thin depending on zoom, and FFP scopes are often more expensive. By contrast, second focal plane (SFP) scopes keep the reticle size constant – easier for quick close-up shots, but then the hashmarks only match the calibration at one magnification (typically highest power). If you plan to use your scope mainly at low power or close range, an SFP or simple red dot might suffice; but for flexible mid/long-range shooting, FFP is usually preferred. Monstrum’s FFP LPVOs are therefore geared toward shooters who can benefit from true holdovers across the zoom range.
• Reticle Style: Monstrum offers multiple reticle choices. The Archangel series uses the “Morpheus” BDC reticle (in either MIL or MOA scale) – essentially a crosshair with holdover dots. The Beast scopes add a “Christmas tree” style CM8 MOA reticle (denser dots for wind holds). The Panzer uses a different CM2 reticle with a large circle-dot pattern for quick aiming at 1× and simpler hold marks at higher power. Illumination color varies: Archangel 1–10× has a bright red illumination, while Beast and Panzer offer dual-color (red/green) illumination. Be aware illumination on Monstrum scopes is reported to be adequate for low-light use, but some testers note significant light bleed around the reticle at high brightness levels (a common issue on budget scopes). In bright daytime, the etched black reticle (even if not illuminated) remains usable. When buying, choose the reticle style (MIL vs MOA, BDC vs Christmas-tree) that fits your preferred ranging method or holds.
• Durability & Construction: Monstrum scopes have solid build materials for the price. They use 6061 aircraft-grade aluminum bodies and brass internal mechanisms. They are nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed for fog/water resistance. In hands-on tests, Monstrum optics “lived up to their durability claims” – they functioned through routine use and recoil without losing zero. Of course, they are not indestructible; rough hits or dropping them will take a toll, but for $200 a scope that lasts several years is often considered a win by budget buyers. Mounts and eyepiece threading are generally well-machined, though reviewers sometimes criticize Monstrum for minor finish issues (sharp edges, lens cap quality) compared to premium brands.
• Glass Quality & Clarity: Optical clarity varies. The Archangel and Panzer models specifically advertise ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass coatings. ED elements help reduce color fringing around high-contrast edges and improve sharpness. In practice, users find the image clear and high-contrast for the price, but not as pristine as high-end scopes. For instance, one comparison noted the expensive Vortex Razor was noticeably brighter and sharper, whereas the Panzer was clear but slightly dimmer at equal settings. Chromatic aberration in bright scenes can be more apparent on Monstrum glass. However, for hunting or general shooting, the clarity is usually adequate – certainly much better than $100 “no-name” scopes, thanks in part to the multi-coatings and ED glass.
• Price & Value: Monstrum scopes excel on value. As mentioned, most fall in the $150–$250 range. This is similar to other budget LPVOs (Primary Arms GLx, Bushnell AR Optics, etc.), but Monstrum often includes extras (like mounts) and FFP reticles. For example, Monstrum’s site shows no scopes above $340, whereas competitors may charge $400–$800 for a similarly specified optic. The trade-off is that you may sacrifice a bit of optical polish and turret feel. One reviewer sums it up: Monstrum “does an excellent job of keeping prices down and incorporating features that you would have paid considerably more for a few years ago”. Just keep in mind that sub-$200 scopes generally won’t out-perform a $1000 class optic, but they can get very close in good conditions and save you a bundle.

Monstrum vs. Competitors (Vortex, Primary Arms, etc.)

In the LPVO market, Monstrum occupies the budget end. Its main competitors include value brands like Primary Arms, Bushnell, SWFA, and sometimes sales of the mid-tier Sig Sauer, vs. premium brands like Vortex, Leupold, and Nightforce at the high end. Compared head-to-head, Monstrum usually trails the flagships in optical clarity and machining, but the gap has narrowed.

For example, a detailed test compared the Monstrum Panzer 1–10× ($200) to a Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1–10× (~$2500). Unsurprisingly, the Vortex delivered a brighter, sharper image – at 1× it looked like “a freshly cleaned window” compared to the Panzer. Even at 10× the Razor resolved much finer detail and was notably crisper. The Razor also had a lockable illumination knob with 11 brightness levels that were true daylight-bright, whereas the Panzer’s dual-color illumination was adequate for low light but “nowhere close” to the Vortex’s intensity. However, the Panzer held its own in some ways: it had a true 1× view without distortion, whereas the Vortex showed some edge fish-eye at 1×. The Panzer’s reticle lines at 1× were also longer (easier to see) than the Razor’s fine lines. In short, the Vortex outperforms in optical clarity and brightness (as expected of a ~$2500 optic), but the $200 Monstrum still proved serviceable, especially given the price gap.

Against brands like Primary Arms, Monstrum is usually cheaper. A Primary Arms GLx 1–6× might run $450–$550, often with an advanced ACSS reticle. Monstrum scopes may not beat Primary Arms in glass or turret refinement, but they do often include features (like mounts or ED glass) that Primary Arms may not at the same price point. Some shooters note that build quality and ergonomics (e.g. crispness of clicks) can favor the more expensive brands. Overall, Monstrum compares as follows:

• Value: Monstrum generally undercuts Vortex/Leupold/Nightforce significantly, offering FFP and quality glass features at a fraction of the cost.
• Quality: Premium competitors usually have superior optical performance, finer adjustments, and tighter tolerances. Monstrum scopes have decent clarity and hold zeros well, but may have more light bleed and looser click-feel in the turrets.
• Features: Monstrum sometimes out-features similarly-priced rivals. For instance, not many LPVOs under $250 include an aluminum mount or ED glass. Monstrum’s lifetime warranty and included accessories (like lens covers or mounts) can surpass what’s offered with equivalent optics from lesser-known brands.
• Use Case Fit: For a shooter on a tight budget who needs a capable FFP LPVO, Monstrum is compelling. If absolute clarity and rock-solid precision are paramount (as in long-range competition), one might save up for Vortex/PAs/others. But many users find Monstrum “punches above its weight” in real-world shooting, providing most practical functionality of a high-end scope at a much lower investment.

In summary, Monstrum scopes are not exotic high-end optics – they’re budget tools. But smart buyers find that they often “get what they pay for” in a good way: robust construction and modern features on a wallet-friendly platform. As one tester found, they are a viable option if you understand the trade-offs.

Tips for Mounting and Zeroing

To get the best out of your Monstrum scope, follow these guidelines:

• Mounting: Ensure your rifle has a proper Picatinny rail and 30 mm ring mounts (or use the included mount on models like the Panzer). Hand-tight clamps or thumbscrews are usually provided, but use a torque wrench to snug them to about 20–25 in·lb (Monstrum’s recommended spec). This prevents slipping or scope creep under recoil. If using the Panzer offset mount (30 mm low-profile cantilever), tighten its screws evenly as per instructions. Use a bubble level or the scope’s crosshair to make sure it isn’t canted when you tighten it.
• Eye Relief and Eye Position: Before shooting, adjust the scope’s fore/aft position so you have the full 4.0–4.5″ eye relief and a clear sight picture. The scope is relatively forgiving on eye relief (a typical rifle scope range), but you should not see any black ring (vignetting) at 10×. This also means the scope is correctly leveled. Lock down the rings after confirming eye relief is good.
• Zeroing: It’s generally easiest to start at a mid-level magnification (like 4× or 6×) for initial zeroing – the target is big but you still see holdover marks. Place your rifle on sandbags or a rest, bore-sight if possible, and then fire groups at 25–100 yds. Use the parallax knob (if present) or fixed parallax setting (the Monstrum LPVOs are usually parallax-free at infinity) to ensure the target and reticle are sharply focused. Adjust windage/elevation turrets (each click is 0.2 MIL or 1/2 MOA) to move the point of impact. Once roughly zeroed, move to your desired final range (50 yd, 100 yd, etc.) to fine-tune. Since these are FFP scopes, you can dial or hold over at any magnification and be confident the subtensions are accurate. Many shooters then reduce to 1× and verify that the shot group is still centered (a true 1× view means the zero will hold from low to high power).
• Check Regularly: Especially for a new scope, it’s wise to re-check zero after the first dozen shots, as turrets may have some mechanical take-up. Also ensure nothing has loosened. One tip from a Monstrum owner is to always physically turn off the illumination after use, as there is no auto-off feature and the battery can drainamericanfirearms.org. (Monstrum scopes typically use a common CR2032 battery.)
• Use Tools: If available, use a scope leveling kit or an anti-cant device during mounting. A simple method is to level the rifle barrel and then level the reticle. This ensures that your elevation holds (MOA or MIL) correspond correctly to actual vertical displacement.

Following these steps will help a new user quickly get on target with a Monstrum LPVO. The learning curve is the same as any AR-type scope: learn your reticle marks, settle in a stable position, and practice transitions between magnifications (for dynamic shooting). With proper mounting and zeroing, Monstrum scopes will serve reliably in the field.