Unleashing precision at extreme distances requires the right tools, and when it comes to long-range shooting, the scope you choose can make or break your success. Finding the best scopes for long range shooting is a meticulous process that demands a deep understanding of the nuances that separate a good scope from a great one. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the essential features, specifications, and considerations that will empower you to select the perfect optic for your long-range shooting endeavors, ensuring you can confidently engage targets with pinpoint accuracy, even at extended ranges.
List of the Best Scopes for Long Range Shooting
Check out the thorough review of the best scopes for long range shooting below.
1. NIGHTFORCE ATACR 5-25x56mm First Focal Plane Scope
The Nightforce ATACR 5-25x56mm First Focal Plane (F1) hunting scope is a pinnacle of precision and durability. This scope features top-tier ED glass, ensuring exceptional optical clarity and brightness. Even in challenging lighting conditions, it provides sharp, vivid images, enabling precise target identification and engagement. The first focal plane reticle maintains consistent subtensions across the entire magnification range, enhancing both versatility and accuracy.
Designed for rugged use, the ATACR F1 is built with durable materials and subjected to rigorous testing. Its robust construction ensures reliability in various environmental conditions, making it an excellent choice for hunters and tactical shooters alike. The scope’s magnification range of 5-25x, coupled with a 34mm tube, offers a vast field of view and precise adjustments with a click value of .250 MOA or .1 MRAD.
Key specifications include an internal adjustment range of 120 MOA for elevation and 80 MOA for windage, 3.5 inches of eye relief, and a field of view ranging from 18.7 feet at 5x to 4.9 feet at 25x per 100 yards. The MOAR F1 reticle, featuring a floating center crosshair and bold posts, ensures rapid target acquisition and accurate range finding.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional Optical Clarity: ED glass delivers sharp, bright images.
- Consistent Reticle Accuracy: First focal plane reticle maintains accuracy across magnifications.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand harsh conditions.
- Wide Magnification Range: 5-25x range covers various shooting scenarios.
- High-Quality Materials: Machined from aircraft-grade aluminum for superior durability.
Cons:
- High Cost: Premium features come with a premium price tag.
2. Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II First Focal Plane Riflescope
The Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27×56 riflescope is engineered for precision long-range shooting. Its L-TEC Turret System features a locking mechanism to prevent accidental adjustments, while a visual rotation indicator helps track turret revolutions. The EBR-7C reticle, designed for long-range accuracy, includes a windage tree for rapid corrections and clear lower stadia markings to reduce obstruction.
The riflescope’s 6x zoom range and fast-focus eyepiece provide versatile magnification and sharp reticle focus. Integrated side parallax and illumination controls streamline adjustments. The APO optical system, with fully multi-coated XR plus anti-reflective lenses, ensures high light transmission and stunning image quality.
Constructed from single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum, the Razor HD Gen II offers a durable, waterproof, and fogproof platform. Armortek coatings protect lenses from scratches, oil, and dirt, enhancing longevity. The scope includes a riflescope, L-Tec tool, 4-inch sunshade, 2mm hex wrench, CR2032 battery, and lens cloth.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional Clarity: APO optical system delivers stunning image quality.
- Versatile Adjustments: Integrated parallax and illumination controls.
- Durable Build: Single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum construction.
- Precision Turrets: L-TEC Turret System with locking mechanism.
- FFP Reticle: Consistent subtensions across all magnifications.
Cons:
- Heavy: Robust construction adds to overall weight.
3. Leupold Mark 5HD 7-35×56 M5C3 FFP Riflescope
The Leupold Mark 5HD 7-35x56mm riflescope exemplifies high-performance optics for precision shooting. With a front focal plane (FFP) TMR reticle, this scope allows for accurate range estimation at all magnification levels. Its Twilight Max HD Light Management system enhances image clarity and extends shooting light by up to 30 minutes, providing best-in-class glare reduction and edge-to-edge sharpness.
Weighing only 33 ounces and measuring 15.7 inches in length, the Mark 5HD offers extra magnification without a significant weight penalty. The M5C3 turrets feature low-profile 1/10 Mil per click dials, offering 30 Mils of adjustment over three revolutions, with visual and tactile indicators to prevent getting lost during adjustments. This scope is also 100% waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof, ensuring reliability in all conditions.
Designed, machined, and assembled in the USA, the Mark 5HD is built to withstand extreme temperatures and recoil. Each riflescope endures a minimum of 5,000 impacts on Leupold’s recoil simulation machine, equivalent to three times the recoil of a .308 rifle. Tested from -40ºF to 160ºF, this scope guarantees performance in any environment.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extended Magnification: 7-35x range for long-distance shooting.
- Superior Light Management: Twilight Max HD system enhances low-light performance.
- Durable Build: Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof construction.
- Precise Adjustments: M5C3 turrets with 1/10 Mil per click and 30 Mils of adjustment.
- Lightweight Design: Only 3 ounces heavier than the 5-25x56mm model.
Cons:
- Complex Adjustments: Advanced features may be challenging for beginners.
4. Bushnell Elite Tactical Riflescope XRS II, 4.5-30 x 50
The Bushnell Elite Tactical XRS II 4.5-30×50 riflescope, featuring the G3 reticle and a Flat Dark Earth finish, stands as Bushnell’s flagship optic. Crafted for precision at extreme distances, this scope is favored by top shooters in competitions like the King of 2 Miles. With 10 Mils per revolution on both elevation and windage turrets, it offers exact adjustments for precise shooting.
The scope’s ED Prime glass delivers vibrant, high-contrast images regardless of lighting conditions, enhancing color representation and resolution. Its removable throw hammer lever allows for rapid magnification changes, providing adaptability in various scenarios. The EXO Barrier coating protects the lenses from dust, oil, and water, ensuring a clear view in all conditions.
Engineered with a true zero stop Rev Limiter on the elevation turret and a locking windage turret, the XRS II ensures consistent and reliable tracking. Built to stringent standards, this scope offers exceptional durability and performance, making it a top choice for precision shooting.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High Precision: 10 Mils per revolution on elevation and windage turrets.
- Superior Optics: ED Prime glass for enhanced color and resolution.
- Quick Adjustments: Removable throw hammer lever for fast magnification changes.
- Durable Protection: EXO Barrier coating safeguards lenses.
- Reliable Tracking: True zero stop Rev Limiter and locking windage turret.
Cons:
- Limited Eye Relief: May not be comfortable for all users.
5. Steiner T5Xi Tactical Rifle Scope
The Steiner T5Xi 5-25x56mm tactical riflescope stands out for its precision, durability, and versatility. Featuring a one-piece, oversized 34mm tube, this scope offers increased strength and reliability. It is equipped with the Special Competition Reticle (SCR), designed specifically for precision competition use, providing an extended illumination area, windage, and holdover lines. The first focal plane (FFP) reticle ensures accurate ranging at all magnification levels.
With a magnification range of 5x to 25x and a 56mm objective lens diameter, the T5Xi delivers exceptional clarity and light transmission, even in low-light conditions. The throw lever allows for quick magnification changes, while the Tenebraex lens covers protect the lenses from dust and moisture. Additionally, the second rotation indicator on the elevation turret prevents the shooter from losing track of adjustments.
The T5Xi is waterproof up to 33 feet and comes with a CR2450 battery. Backed by Steiner’s Heritage Warranty, this scope is built to last a lifetime. Made in the USA, it combines precise German engineering with rugged American construction, making it ideal for both competitive shooting and law enforcement.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High Precision: 1/10-mil ranging brackets for accurate distance estimation.
- Exceptional Clarity: Premium multi-coated lenses for brighter detail.
- Durable Build: Waterproof up to 33 feet and robust 34mm tube.
- User-Friendly: Quick magnification changes with throw lever.
- Lifetime Warranty: Steiner’s Heritage Warranty ensures long-term reliability.
Cons:
- Specific Use: Primarily designed for long-range shooting, limiting versatility.
6. Schmidt & Bender PM II High Power 5-45×56 Riflescope
The Schmidt & Bender PM II High Power 5-45×56 riflescope is designed for extreme long-range shooting. Featuring a 34mm one-piece aluminum main tube, this scope offers superior strength and durability. The magnification range of 5-45x, combined with a 56mm objective lens, provides a wide field of view (7.8 – 0.9m @ 100m) and excellent light transmission at 90%.
Equipped with a TReMoR3 illuminated first focal plane reticle, the scope ensures accurate ranging at all magnifications. The index-matched, anti-reflection fully multicoated optics deliver sharp, clear images. The MTC (More Tactile Clicks) function on the turrets makes it easier to count clicks for precise adjustments. The elevation turret offers DT MTC LT (Double Turn; More Tactile Clicks; Locking Turret) with 270 cm/100 m adjustments, while the windage turret features ST ZS CT (Single Turn; Zero Stop; Capped Turret) with ±60 cm/100 m adjustments.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Wide Magnification Range: 5-45x for versatile long-range shooting.
- High Light Transmission: 90% light transmission for clear images.
- Durable Construction: 34mm one-piece aluminum tube with a matte black finish.
- Precise Adjustments: MTC function and advanced turret systems.
- First Focal Plane Reticle: Accurate ranging at all magnifications.
Cons:
- Specific Use: Primarily designed for extreme long-range shooting, limiting versatility.
7. KAHLES 6-24×56 K624i CCW Riflescope
This riflescope is designed for situations where optimal optical clarity is crucial. With a 95% light transmission rate, it delivers exceptional resolution and contrast. The scope features an illuminated first focal plane SKMR3 reticle, enhancing accuracy at all magnifications.
Constructed with hardened steel and machined to exacting tolerances, the K624i offers ultra-precise adjustments and remarkable wear resistance. The elevation adjustment boasts a second rotation indicator, a refined zero stop, and dial reset, providing 26 Mils of overall elevation in just two rotations. This allows for rapid and accurate adjustments for extreme distances. The innovative parallax adjustment, positioned under the elevation turret, offers superior convenience, enabling quick target engagement without altering shooting position.
With a 34mm tube diameter, exposed turrets, and a matte black finish, this scope is both durable and user-friendly. The K624i is ideal for both left- and right-handed shooters, making it a versatile choice for top competitors. Its advanced features and unmatched optical performance make it a preferred choice among elite shooters.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High Light Transmission: 95% light transmission for exceptional clarity.
- Precise Adjustments: Ultra-precise, hardened steel adjustments.
- Innovative Parallax Adjustment: Located under the elevation turret for convenience.
- Durable Construction: 34mm tube diameter with a matte black finish.
- Versatile Design: Suitable for left- and right-handed shooters.
Cons:
- Complex Features: Advanced settings may require a learning curve.
8. ZEISS V8 4.8-35×60 Riflescope
The ZEISS V8 4.8-35×60 riflescope sets the benchmark for long-range performance. With 35x magnification and an illuminated Mil-Dot reticle (#43), this scope ensures precision at any distance. Its Ultra-FL Concept incorporates multiple SCHOTT fluoride glasses, delivering 92% light transmission for absolute color fidelity, brightness, and clarity. The ZEISS T* and LotuTec coatings guarantee crisp images even in challenging conditions.
Built with a compact, heavy-duty 34mm main tube, the V8 withstands over 800 cycles of impact testing at 1,000 g-force and multiple cycles at 1,500 g-force. It’s waterproof up to 13 feet for two hours, ensuring reliability in harsh environments. The external elevation turret with BDC (ASV) and ballistic rings, .33 MOA adjustments, and side parallax adjustment provide precise targeting.
The extra-large eyebox facilitates quick target acquisition, enhancing success in dynamic hunting situations. German engineering and craftsmanship are evident in every detail, making the V8 a top choice for hunters seeking the ultimate riflescope. This model’s advanced long-range capabilities and exceptional optical performance ensure it meets the demands of the most challenging hunts.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High Light Transmission: 92% light transmission for clear images.
- Durable Construction: Withstands rigorous impact testing and is waterproof.
- Precision Adjustments: .33 MOA turret adjustments and ballistic rings.
- Extra-Large Eyebox: Quick target acquisition.
- High Magnification: 35x magnification for long-range performance.
Cons:
- Specific Use: Primarily designed for long-range hunting.
9. MEOPTA Optika6 3-18×56 30mm Riflescope
Designed with capped windage and elevation turrets, this scope prevents unwanted adjustments during fast movements through dense cover. The proprietary MeoBright ion-assisted lens multi-coating ensures an industry-leading 99.7% light transmission per lens surface, eliminating glare and reflections for optimal clarity.
This scope features the RD illuminated reticle system, offering a highly defined red dot reticle suitable for low-light to bright daylight conditions. Users can quickly find their preferred illumination setting with seven intensity levels and intermediate off positions. The MeoShield coating protects external lens surfaces, providing enhanced resistance to scratching and abrasion, meeting stringent durability and surface hardness specifications.
Available with several Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticle configurations, the Optika6 accommodates various hunting needs. Standard click values for non-MIL reticles are 0.25 MOA, while MIL-based reticles feature 0.1 Milradian per click adjustments. The multi-position power ring throw lever adds to the scope’s versatility, making it a comprehensive tool for hunters and shooters.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High Light Transmission: 99.7% light transmission per lens surface.
- Durable Construction: MeoShield coating for enhanced scratch resistance.
- Versatile Illumination: RD illuminated reticle system with seven intensity levels.
- Accurate Adjustments: 0.25 MOA or 0.1 Milradian click values.
- Multiple Reticle Options: Various SFP reticle configurations.
Cons:
- Specific Use: Primarily designed for hunting, limiting versatility for other applications.
10. Swarovski Z8i 2.3-18×56 BRX-I Scope
The Swarovski Z8i 2.3-18×56 riflescope is a pinnacle of optical engineering, offering an impressive 8x magnification range suitable for various hunting scenarios. With an astounding 93% light transmission, this scope provides exceptional clarity and brightness, thanks to the highest quality glass and advanced Swarovski coatings. The slim 30mm tube design adds elegance to the rifle without being cumbersome.
One of the standout features of the Z8i is its optional Ballistic Turret Flex (BTF) for both elevation and windage adjustments, which can be installed effortlessly without additional tools. This flexibility, combined with the 2.3-18x magnification range, makes the Z8i versatile enough for close-range drives and long-distance shots, ensuring hunters are prepared for any situation.
The scope’s low magnification is perfect for quick target acquisition in fast-paced hunting environments, while the higher magnification provides the precision needed for distant targets. The Z8i’s advanced optical system guarantees unrivaled performance and reliability, making it a top choice for discerning hunters.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High Light Transmission: 93% light transmission for exceptional clarity.
- Versatile Magnification: 2.3-18x range suitable for various hunting scenarios.
- Elegant Design: Slim 30mm tube size.
- Easy Adjustments: BTF for elevation and windage without extra tools.
- Advanced Coatings: State-of-the-art coatings for superior image quality.
Cons:
- High Cost: Premium features come with a higher price tag.
What factors should you consider when choosing a long-range scope?
Magnification Range: Long-range shooting often requires high magnification levels to clearly identify and accurately engage distant targets. A scope with a magnification range of at least 16x to 25x is ideal, allowing you to zoom in on targets hundreds or even over a thousand yards away.
Objective Lens Size: The objective lens size determines how much light the scope can gather, which directly impacts image brightness and clarity. For long-range shooting, a larger objective lens (typically 50mm or higher) is preferred as it provides a brighter, sharper image, especially in low-light conditions.
Reticle Design: The reticle, or crosshair, plays a crucial role in long-range shooting accuracy. Look for reticles specifically designed for long-range shooting, such as mil-dot or bullet drop compensating (BDC) reticles. These reticles feature hashmarks or additional aiming points that help account for bullet drop and windage at various distances.
Optical Quality: High-quality optics are essential for long-range shooting, ensuring a clear, crisp image with minimal distortion or aberration. Look for scopes with fully multi-coated lenses, which enhance light transmission and image clarity.
Adjustments and Tracking: Precise and repeatable adjustments for elevation and windage are crucial for long-range shooting. Look for scopes with accurate and consistent adjustment turrets, preferably with locking mechanisms to prevent accidental changes.
Construction and Durability: Long-range shooting often involves harsh environments and recoil from powerful rifles. Choose a scope with a rugged, waterproof, and shockproof construction to withstand rough conditions and maintain zero.
Eye Relief and Exit Pupil: Adequate eye relief (the distance between your eye and the eyepiece) and a suitable exit pupil (the diameter of the beam of light leaving the eyepiece) are essential for comfortable and accurate shooting, especially with high-recoil rifles.
Parallax Adjustment: Parallax error can cause point-of-aim and point-of-impact discrepancies at various distances. Look for scopes with adjustable parallax settings or a side parallax adjustment knob for precise long-range shooting.
How to choose the best scopes for long range shooting?
Magnification Matters
When it comes to long-range shooting, magnification is king. Engaging targets at extended distances requires the ability to zoom in and acquire your sight picture with pinpoint accuracy. Generally, a magnification range of 16x to 25x is considered ideal for most long-range applications. However, it’s essential to consider the intended use and shooting distances. For instance, if you primarily plan to shoot at distances beyond 1,000 yards, a higher magnification scope may be necessary to compensate for the increased bullet drop and environmental factors.
Objective Lens Size
The Brightness Factor Imagine peering through your scope, only to be greeted by a dim, hazy image that makes target acquisition a guessing game. This is where the objective lens size comes into play. A larger objective lens, typically 50mm or greater, gathers more light, resulting in a brighter, crisper image. This increased brightness is particularly valuable in low-light conditions or when shooting in dense vegetation, ensuring you can clearly identify your target.
Reticle Designs
Your Aiming Guide The reticle, or crosshair, is the heart of your scope, guiding your aim and compensating for various shooting factors. For long-range shooting, specialized reticles such as mil-dot or bullet drop compensating (BDC) reticles are essential. These reticles feature hashmarks or additional aiming points that account for bullet drop and windage at various distances, allowing you to make precise adjustments on the fly.
Optical Excellence
Clarity is Key Imagine investing in a top-of-the-line scope, only to be disappointed by a blurry, distorted image that undermines your shooting accuracy. This is why optical quality is paramount when selecting a long-range scope. Look for scopes with fully multi-coated lenses, which enhance light transmission and image clarity, ensuring you can easily identify and engage targets at extended distances.
Precision Adjustments
Stay on Target Long-range shooting demands unwavering precision, and even the slightest adjustment can make a world of difference. Seek out scopes with accurate and consistent adjustment turrets for elevation and windage, preferably with locking mechanisms to prevent accidental changes. Additionally, consider scopes with adjustable parallax settings or a side parallax adjustment knob, which eliminate parallax error and ensure your point-of-aim and point-of-impact remain aligned at various distances.
Rugged Construction
Built to Last Long-range shooting often takes place in harsh environments, subjecting your equipment to extreme conditions and recoil from powerful rifles. To ensure your scope can withstand the rigors of the field, look for rugged, waterproof, and shockproof construction. This durability not only protects your investment but also ensures your scope maintains zero, even in the most demanding situations.
Eye Relief and Exit Pupil
Comfort and Accuracy Comfortable and accurate shooting is essential, especially when engaging targets at extended distances. Pay close attention to eye relief (the distance between your eye and the eyepiece) and exit pupil (the diameter of the beam of light leaving the eyepiece). Adequate eye relief and a suitable exit pupil can prevent eye strain, ensure a clear field of view, and accommodate the recoil of high-powered rifles.
Frequently asked questions regarding the best scopes for long range shooting
What magnification range is ideal for long range shooting?
For most long range shooting applications, a magnification range of 16x to 25x is considered ideal. Higher magnification levels allow you to clearly identify and engage targets at extended distances, while lower magnification settings provide a wider field of view for target acquisition and situational awareness.
Why is objective lens size important for long range scopes?
A larger objective lens size, typically 50mm or greater, is crucial for long range shooting as it gathers more light, resulting in a brighter and crisper image. This increased brightness is particularly valuable in low-light conditions or when shooting in dense vegetation, ensuring you can clearly identify your target at long distances.
What is the importance of the reticle design in a long range scope?
The reticle design plays a critical role in long range shooting accuracy. Specialized reticles, such as mil-dot or bullet drop compensating (BDC) reticles, feature hashmarks or additional aiming points that account for bullet drop and windage at various distances. This allows you to make precise adjustments on the fly, ensuring accurate shots at extended ranges.
How does optical quality affect long range shooting performance?
Optical quality is paramount for long range shooting. Scopes with fully multi-coated lenses enhance light transmission and image clarity, ensuring you can easily identify and engage targets at extended distances without blurry or distorted images.
What should I look for in terms of adjustments and tracking in a long range scope?
Precise and repeatable adjustments for elevation and windage are crucial for long range shooting. Look for scopes with accurate and consistent adjustment turrets, preferably with locking mechanisms to prevent accidental changes. Additionally, consider scopes with adjustable parallax settings or a side parallax adjustment knob to eliminate parallax error and ensure your point-of-aim and point-of-impact remain aligned at various distances.
Why is construction and durability important for long range scopes?
Long range shooting often takes place in harsh environments, subjecting your equipment to extreme conditions and recoil from powerful rifles. Rugged, waterproof, and shockproof construction ensures your scope can withstand the rigors of the field and maintain zero, even in demanding situations.
What is the importance of eye relief and exit pupil in a long range scope?
Adequate eye relief (the distance between your eye and the eyepiece) and a suitable exit pupil (the diameter of the beam of light leaving the eyepiece) are essential for comfortable and accurate shooting, especially with high-recoil rifles. Proper eye relief prevents eye strain and ensures a clear field of view, while the exit pupil accommodates the recoil of high-powered rifles.
Can you recommend some top-rated long range scopes?
Some highly regarded long range scopes include the Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen III, Nightforce ATACR, Leupold Mark 5HD, Sig Sauer Tango6T, and Schmidt & Bender PMII. These scopes offer exceptional optical quality, precise adjustments, rugged construction, and specialized reticles designed for long range shooting.
Final Thoughts
Mastering the art of long-range shooting is a quest that demands unwavering dedication, skill, and the right tools. By meticulously evaluating factors such as magnification range, objective lens size, reticle design, optical quality, adjustment precision, construction durability, and eye relief/exit pupil, you can confidently navigate the vast array of options and select the best scope for your long-range shooting needs.
Enjoyed this guide of the best scopes for long range shooting? Then be sure to check out our other scope reviews and guides.