When it comes to long-range hunting, the right scope can make all the difference. In 2025, you’ll find an impressive selection of options that promise precision and performance. From advanced optics to innovative technologies, today’s scopes are designed to meet your needs in the field. Curious about which models stand out this year and what features can enhance your hunting experience? Let’s explore the top contenders together.
Vortex Optics Venom First Focal Plane Riflescopes
If you’re a long-range shooting enthusiast or competitor seeking precision and reliability, the Vortex Optics Venom First Focal Plane Riflescope is an excellent choice. With a magnification range of 5-25x and a robust 34mm tube diameter, you’ll enjoy superior targeting capabilities. The XD Optical System guarantees high resolution and sharpness, while the fully multi-coated lenses excel in low-light situations. Its one-piece aluminum construction makes it durable, and the RevStop Zero System assures a reliable return to zero. Backed by an unlimited lifetime warranty, this scope combines performance and value, earning a stellar 4.8-star rating from satisfied customers.
Best For: Long-range shooting enthusiasts and competitors seeking precision and reliability in their optics.
Pros:
- High resolution and edge-to-edge sharpness due to XD Optical System.
- Durable one-piece aluminum construction with water and fogproof performance.
- Unlimited lifetime warranty providing peace of mind for users.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to basic scopes may not suit budget-conscious buyers.
- Weight may be a concern for some users looking for lightweight options.
- Learning curve for adjusting the EBR-7C reticle accurately across magnification ranges.
Burris Fullfield IV 6-24x50mm Hunting Scope
The Burris Fullfield IV 6-24x50mm Hunting Scope stands out as an excellent choice for avid long-range hunters who demand both clarity and precision in varying conditions. With magnification ranging from 6x to 24x and a 50mm objective lens, you’ll enjoy bright, clear images even in low light. Its sleek design features finger-adjustable turrets and a side parallax adjustment for easy focus. Built to last, it’s nitrogen-filled and waterproof, ensuring durability. While it has a solid customer rating of 4.4 out of 5, some users have reported issues with customer support. Overall, it’s a reliable option for your long-range needs.
Best For: Long-range hunters seeking an affordable premium scope with excellent clarity and durability.
Pros:
- High-grade optical glass offers superior brightness and edge-to-edge clarity.
- Durable, nitrogen-filled construction ensures waterproof and fog-proof performance.
- Easy-to-use finger-adjustable turrets and side parallax adjustment enhance user experience.
Cons:
- Some users have experienced issues with customer support responsiveness.
- A few reports of quality inconsistencies among units sold.
- Lower best sellers rank may indicate less popularity compared to competitors.
Barska Varmint Rifle Scope for Hunting and Targeting
Designed for serious hunters and target shooters, the Barska Varmint Rifle Scope stands out with its impressive 5-20x magnification and precision 1/8 MOA click adjustments. The illuminated Trac MOA reticle guarantees easy targeting, while the adjustable objective minimizes parallax error across multiple ranges. Built to withstand tough conditions, it’s waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, making it ideal for varmint hunting and long-range precision shooting. Weighing only 1.31 pounds and featuring a 50mm objective lens, it offers a field of view of 21.48 feet. Plus, it includes scope caps and a lens cloth for easy maintenance and longevity.
Best For: Serious hunters and target shooters looking for precision and durability in a rifle scope.
Pros:
- Adjustable 5-20x magnification with precise 1/8 MOA click adjustments for enhanced accuracy.
- Illuminated reticle and adjustable objective for improved targeting and reduced parallax error.
- Durable construction that is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, suitable for various shooting conditions.
Cons:
- Weighs 1.31 pounds, which could be considered heavy for some users.
- Limited to no night vision capabilities, which may not suit all hunting scenarios.
- Average customer rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars suggests some users may have had mixed experiences.
AGM Global Vision Rattler V2 Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope for Hunting
For hunters seeking a reliable and high-performance thermal imaging scope, the AGM Global Vision Rattler V2 stands out with its impressive heat signature detection capabilities, allowing you to spot targets up to 1,250 yards away. With a lightweight design and rugged, waterproof construction, it’s built for real-world hunting conditions. The 3.5x magnification, digital zoom up to 28x, and ten reticle options enhance your accuracy. Enjoy features like shot-activated recording and remote viewing for added convenience. Though it has a slight weight and some users noted image detail limitations, its value and performance make it a top choice for serious hunters.
Best For: Serious hunters looking for a reliable and high-performance thermal imaging scope with advanced features and durability.
Pros:
- High sensitivity thermal optics allows for detecting heat signatures up to 1,250 yards.
- Shot-activated recording and remote viewing enhance convenience and tracking capabilities.
- Rugged, waterproof design ensures reliability in various hunting conditions.
Cons:
- Slightly heavier due to rechargeable batteries, which may be noticeable when mounted.
- Some limitations in image detail recognition at longer ranges.
- Button placement and tactile feedback could be improved for better user experience.
Burris Optics Eliminator 6 Laser Rangerfinder Riflescope 4-20x52mm
With its impressive rangefinder capability of up to 2,000 yards, the Burris Optics Eliminator 6 Laser Rangefinder Riflescope 4-20x52mm is an exceptional choice for long-range hunters seeking precision and reliability. This versatile scope combines 4-20x magnification with a 52mm objective lens, ensuring bright, clear images. The X177 reticle features 177 micro LEDs for precise targeting across all magnification levels. Bluetooth connectivity allows you to customize ballistic profiles through the BurrisConnect App, while the included remote offers easy adjustments. With durable aluminum construction and a Burris Forever Warranty, this scope is built to last in the field.
Best For: Long-range hunters seeking precision and advanced features for ethical shooting.
Pros:
- High magnification range (4-20x) and a large 52mm objective lens for bright, clear images.
- Integrated laser rangefinder accurate up to 2,000 yards, enhancing targeting precision.
- Bluetooth connectivity allows for easy customization of ballistic profiles via the BurrisConnect App.
Cons:
- Heavier weight (30 ounces) may be cumbersome for some users.
- Higher price point compared to traditional riflescopes without advanced features.
- Requires familiarity with technology for optimal use of Bluetooth and app functionalities.
Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
The Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II Second Focal Plane Riflescope stands out for its exceptional versatility, making it the ideal choice for hunters who need reliability in close to medium range scenarios. With a 1-6×24 magnification, it adapts to various shooting conditions. Features like laser-etched turrets, an RZR zero stop, and a fiber optic rotation indicator enhance usability. The extra-low dispersion glass guarantees excellent clarity, while Armortek coatings protect the lenses. O-ring sealing and argon purging assure waterproof and fogproof performance. With a solid build and backed by a lifetime warranty, it’s an outstanding choice under $1,000.
Best For: The Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II Second Focal Plane Riflescope is best for hunters and shooters seeking a reliable and versatile optic for close to medium range scenarios.
Pros:
- Exceptional clarity and light transmission due to extra-low dispersion glass and XR fully multi-coated lenses.
- Robust construction with an aircraft-grade aluminum body, ensuring durability and longevity.
- User-friendly features including laser-etched turrets, RZR zero stop, and a streamlined illumination dial for easy adjustments.
Cons:
- Some users have reported slight parallax issues at certain distances.
- The weight of 22.7 ounces may be considered heavy for some users.
- Limited magnification range may not suit long-range shooting enthusiasts.
Barska Level Rifle Scope with FMC Lens
Precision aiming becomes effortless with the Barska Level Rifle Scope featuring an FMC lens and illuminated Mil-Dot reticle, making it an excellent choice for both benchrest shooting and hunting enthusiasts. With a magnification range of 4-16x and a 50mm objective lens, you’ll enjoy bright, clear images. The scope’s 1/4 MOA click adjustments guarantee pinpoint accuracy, while the robust design keeps it waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. Although some users reported quality control issues, the overall performance, including reliability after 1000 rounds, is impressive. With external locking knobs and a lightweight design, this scope has everything you need for long-range precision.
Best For: The Barska Level Rifle Scope is best for benchrest shooters and hunting enthusiasts seeking precision and clarity in their optics.
Pros:
- Precision Aiming: Features 1/4 MOA click adjustments for enhanced accuracy.
- Robust Design: Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, ensuring durability in various conditions.
- Illuminated Reticle: Glass-etched reticle with adjustable brightness for improved visibility in different lighting conditions.
Cons:
- Quality Control Concerns: Reports of inconsistent reticle alignment and damaged replacements.
- Adjustment Issues: MOA markings may be incorrect at any power setting.
- Customer Service Costs: Warranty service may incur shipping costs for customers.
Bushnell Legend 10×42 Ultra HD Tactical Monocular
For tactical shooters and hunters seeking a reliable optic, the Bushnell Legend 10×42 Ultra HD Tactical Monocular stands out with its impressive 10x magnification and lightweight design. Featuring ED Prime Glass and advanced coatings, this monocular delivers exceptional clarity, even in low light. The MIL-HASH reticle simplifies range estimation and wind drift compensation. Its rugged, FDE-colored exterior and rubber armor guarantee a secure grip, while the O-ring sealing and nitrogen purging assure waterproof and fog-proof performance. Weighing just 0.37 kg, it’s easy to transport, making it an excellent choice for anyone needing a compact, effective optic for various applications.
Best For: Tactical shooters, hunters, and nature watchers seeking a compact and effective optic for distance shooting and observation.
Pros:
- Exceptional clarity with ED Prime Glass and advanced coatings, even in low light conditions.
- Rugged and durable design with rubber armor for a secure grip and O-ring sealing for waterproof and fog-proof performance.
- Lightweight and portable at just 0.37 kg, making it easy to carry for extended periods.
Cons:
- Some users may prefer different reticle types (MOA vs. MIL) for their specific needs.
- Limited to 10x magnification, which may not be sufficient for all long-range applications.
- Might not perform as well in extreme weather conditions compared to higher-end models.
Gosky DiamondEdge 20-60×80 Spotting Scope with Tripod and Phone Holder
With its impressive variable magnification of 20x to 60x and an 80mm objective lens, the Gosky DiamondEdge 20-60×80 Spotting Scope is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who crave versatility. You’ll appreciate the BAK4 high-definition optics and fully multi-coated lens, offering clear images up to 346 yards. Weighing just 2.41 pounds, its durable, waterproof design features a non-slip grip and includes a lightweight tripod. While the smartphone digiscoping adapter allows for capturing memories, you might encounter alignment issues. Overall, this scope shines for bird watching, wildlife observation, and more, earning a solid 4.4-star rating from satisfied users.
Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts, bird watchers, and wildlife observers looking for a versatile spotting scope that offers good value for money.
Pros:
- High-definition BAK4 optics and fully multi-coated lens provide clear images up to 346 yards.
- Lightweight and durable design with a non-slip grip, making it easy to transport and use outdoors.
- Includes smartphone digiscoping adapter for capturing photos and videos.
Cons:
- Users may experience alignment challenges with the smartphone adapter, leading to dark patches in images.
- The included tripod is lightweight but may not be sturdy enough for optimal performance.
- Some users recommend investing in a better camera app for improved photo quality and focus adjustments.
AGM Global Vision Taipan Thermal Imaging Monocular for Hunting
Hunters seeking advanced thermal imaging capabilities will find the AGM Global Vision Taipan Monocular to be an invaluable companion in the field. With a 256×192 resolution and a high sensitivity detector, it delivers clear images even in low-light situations. You can utilize features like Hot Spot Tracking and 8× digital zoom for enhanced visibility. Its built-in rechargeable battery lasts up to 8 hours, ensuring reliability on long hunts. Plus, the IP67 waterproof rating means it withstands various weather conditions, while the Wi-Fi hotspot allows for easy connectivity. This monocular combines performance and user convenience for an exceptional hunting experience.
Best For: Hunters looking for advanced thermal imaging technology to enhance their visibility and tracking capabilities in low-light conditions.
Pros:
- High sensitivity detector ensures clear imaging even in challenging lighting situations.
- IP67 waterproof rating allows for use in various weather conditions without worry.
- Built-in rechargeable battery provides up to 8 hours of continuous use, perfect for extended hunting trips.
Cons:
- Limited resolution of 256×192 may not meet the needs of all users seeking higher detail.
- Digital zoom may reduce image quality compared to optical zoom options.
- Wi-Fi hotspot feature could drain battery faster if used frequently, impacting overall runtime.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Long Range Hunting Scopes
When choosing a long-range hunting scope, you need to take into account several key factors that can impact your shooting experience. The magnification range, objective lens size, and reticle type all play essential roles in your accuracy and visibility. Additionally, don’t overlook durability and weather resistance, as well as parallax adjustment features, to guarantee your scope performs well in various conditions.
Magnification Range Importance
Choosing the right magnification range for your long-range hunting scope can greatly impact your shooting experience, especially as you aim to identify and engage targets accurately at varying distances. A typical scope may offer a range of 4-20x, letting you effectively target game from several hundred yards away. Variable magnification enhances versatility, allowing you to adjust based on distance and environmental conditions. However, keep in mind that higher magnification can reduce your field of view, making it challenging to track moving targets. Additionally, guarantee ideal eye relief for comfort and safety, particularly with powerful calibers that generate significant recoil. By carefully considering these factors, you’ll enhance your long-range hunting effectiveness.
Objective Lens Size
The objective lens size plays a significant role in the performance of your long-range hunting scope, especially as you take into account how magnification affects your shooting capabilities. A larger diameter, like 50mm or 56mm, lets more light in, improving visibility during those vital low-light hours when game is most active. This translates to brighter, clearer images, essential for spotting targets at a distance. However, keep in mind that bigger lenses can add weight and size to your setup, impacting your rifle’s balance and maneuverability. Additionally, larger lenses increase your field of view, making it easier to track moving targets. Don’t forget to evaluate mounting height, as larger lenses may require higher rings to maintain proper alignment.
Reticle Type Selection
How do you decide which reticle type suits your long-range hunting needs? Start by considering the shooting scenarios you often encounter. If you require range estimation and holdover capabilities, a Mil-Dot reticle could be your best bet, as it allows for accurate distance calculations with its spaced dots. On the other hand, if you’re looking for convenience with specific calibers, a BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticle provides holdover points tailored to bullet drop at various distances. If you hunt in low-light conditions, an illuminated reticle enhances visibility, though it may need battery power. Ultimately, choose a reticle that aligns with your shooting style and typical hunting situations to boost your accuracy and ease of use.
Durability and Weather Resistance
When you’re out in the field, the durability and weather resistance of your long-range hunting scope can make all the difference in your success. Look for scopes made from aircraft-grade aluminum or similar materials to guarantee they can withstand rugged environments and impacts. Features like nitrogen purging and o-ring sealing provide essential fogproof and waterproof capabilities, maintaining clarity in varying conditions. A shockproof design is vital too, helping your scope handle heavy recoil and rough usage without losing functionality. Additionally, protective coatings on lenses, such as Armortek, guard against scratches, oil, and dirt. Finally, verify your scope is rated for specific environmental conditions, like IP67 waterproofing, to perform reliably in rain, snow, and extreme temperatures.
Parallax Adjustment Features
Parallax adjustment features are vital for achieving pinpoint accuracy in long-range hunting. These features help you eliminate parallax error, ensuring that your reticle aligns perfectly with the target no matter your eye position behind the scope. Many long-range scopes come with side parallax adjustment knobs, allowing you to make precise adjustments based on the target’s distance, typically marked in yards or meters. This adjustment can greatly enhance your accuracy, especially at longer ranges, by providing a clear sight picture. While some scopes have fixed parallax settings, others offer variable adjustments for different shooting scenarios. Properly setting the parallax is essential, particularly at high magnification, as even slight misalignments can lead to major shifts in your point of impact.
Eye Relief Considerations
Choosing the right eye relief is essential for your comfort and safety while hunting at long ranges. Eye relief is the distance between the scope’s eyepiece and your eye, vital for preventing injuries from recoil, especially with high-caliber rifles. For long-range hunting scopes, a minimum eye relief of 3 inches is recommended to provide adequate space for your eye. Opting for scopes with longer eye relief—4 inches or more—offers added safety and comfort, particularly if you wear glasses or use larger rifles. Insufficient eye relief can lead to “scope bite,” where the scope recoils into your brow, causing injury. Consider adjustable eyepieces to enhance flexibility, allowing you to customize the distance based on your shooting style and equipment.
Weight and Mounting Options
After confirming you have the right eye relief for comfort and safety, it’s important to think about the weight and mounting options of your long-range hunting scope. The weight can greatly affect your rifle’s balance and handling, so lighter scopes are often preferable for extended carrying during hunts. Keep in mind that tube diameters usually range from 30mm to 34mm, impacting the mounting options available. You’ll want to verify compatibility with specific rings or mounts for secure attachment. Consider the required mounting height for ideal eye relief and cheek weld to enhance your shooting comfort. Adjustable mounts can help you customize eye relief for various positions, while quick detach mounts offer convenience for changing setups in the field.
Warranty and Support
When it comes to long-range hunting scopes, warranty and support play a significant role in your purchasing decision. A robust warranty, like an unlimited lifetime warranty, gives you peace of mind about the scope’s durability and reliability. Make sure to check what the warranty covers—some manufacturers may exclude damages from misuse. Customer support responsiveness is essential; timely assistance can greatly enhance your experience. Look for scopes with hassle-free return or exchange policies to simplify the process if you’re not satisfied. Additionally, evaluating customer feedback on warranty claims and support can reveal a company’s commitment to service and product quality. This information can guide you toward a scope that not only performs well but also has your back when issues arise.