Choosing a Nightforce scope for long-range shooting starts with how you shoot—not the highest magnification on the spec sheet. A competition rifle, a field rifle, and a dedicated target setup place different demands on a scope.
This roundup covers 10 selected ATACR, NX8, and NX6 configurations, including multiple listings of some models. Use the guide below to narrow your choice by magnification range, focal plane, and practical fit.
Best 10 Nightforce Long Range Scopes Picks for 2026
Best for MOA Precision
- 7-35x magnification with ED glass
- MOAR F1 reticle with 1 MOA markings
- 100 MOA elevation travel; 39.3 oz
Best For: MOA-based long-range precision shooting
Most Versatile Zoom
- 4-32x first-focal-plane zoom
- MIL-XT reticle with 0.2 MRAD holds
- 28.6 oz with ZeroStop and DigIllum
Best For: Mixed-distance shooting with mil-based holds
Dark Earth ATACR Option
- Dark Earth 7-35x56mm F1 configuration
- 100 MOA elevation travel and ZeroStop
- Verify reticle: listing details conflict
Best For: Dark Earth ATACR buyers willing to confirm reticle configuration
Competition-Focused Pick
- 6-36x zoom and 56mm objective
- FFP MIL-XT reticle with 0.1 MRAD clicks
- FieldSet turrets, ZeroStop, and DigIllum
Best For: Mil-based precision and PRS Production class shooting
Best for MIL Holds
Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 MIL-XT
- FFP MIL-XT reticle with 0.2 MRAD holds
- 100 MOA elevation travel and ZeroStop
- 39.3-ounce optic
Best For: Precision shooters using MIL-based holds
Best for MOA Competition Holds
Nightforce NX6 6-36x56mm F1 MOA-C
- 6-36x FFP magnification range
- FieldSet turrets with ZeroStop
- Red/green DigIllum reticle
Best For: MOA-based precision and PRS Production shooters
Best for Fine SFP Aiming
Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F2 MOAR-T
- Fine 0.0625 MOA reticle lines
- 100 MOA elevation travel and ZeroStop
- 39.3-ounce SFP scope
Best For: Deliberate long-range aiming with an SFP MOA reticle
Widest Zoom Range
- 6-36x magnification and 56mm objective
- FFP MIL-C reticle with 0.1 MRAD clicks
- FieldSet turrets and red/green DigIllum
Best For: Long-range shooters seeking 36x and MRAD dialing
MOA Holdover Pick
- 5-25x zoom with ED glass and 56mm objective
- FFP MOA-XT reticle with floating center dot
- 120 MOA specified elevation adjustment range
Best For: Shooters who prefer detailed MOA holds
Balanced MRAD Option
- 5-30x range with 56mm objective
- FFP MIL-C reticle and 0.1 MRAD clicks
- FieldSet turrets and five-level DigIllum
Best For: Shooters wanting 5x-to-30x versatility with MRAD controls
Best for MOA Precision – Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1
Among nightforce long range scopes, this black ATACR pairs a 7-35x range and ED glass package with an MOAR F1 reticle for shooters who prefer MOA-based holds. Its first-focal-plane design keeps reticle markings useful throughout the zoom range.
Best For: Long-range shooters who want MOA holds, substantial elevation travel, and high magnification.
Pros:
- 100 MOA of elevation adjustment and parallax focus down to 10 meters.
- ZeroStop supports a quick return to zero; DigIllum illuminates the reticle.
- MOAR F1 reticle has a floating center crosshair and 1 MOA hold markings.
Cons:
- At 39.3 oz and 16 inches long, it is a substantial optic.
- Its 7x minimum is less suited to close-range use than a lower-power scope.
Choose this version if MOA markings fit your shooting setup. The broad adjustment range is a strong draw, but check that your rifle can accommodate its size and weight.
Most Versatile Zoom – Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm F1
If you need one optic for varied distances, this NX8 stands out among nightforce long range scopes with a 4-32x magnification range. Its first-focal-plane MIL-XT reticle provides mil-based references for both dialing and holding.
Best For: Shooters who want a lower 4x setting without giving up 32x for small, distant targets.
Pros:
- 4-32x range covers closer targets as well as long-range aiming.
- 28.6 oz weight and 13.4-inch length make it lighter and shorter than the listed ATACR models.
- ZeroStop, DigIllum, and parallax adjustment from 11 yards to infinity.
- MIL-XT reticle offers a fine center dot and 0.2 MRAD hold references.
Cons:
- Field of view narrows to 4.6 feet at 100 yards on 32x.
- Its 1.6 mm exit pupil at 32x calls for careful eye positioning.
The NX8 is the flexible pick when your distances change often. Its high-end magnification is useful, though the narrow view at 32x makes target acquisition more deliberate.
Dark Earth ATACR Option – Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1
This Dark Earth ATACR gives buyers comparing nightforce long range scopes the 7-35x56mm F1 configuration in a different finish. The supplied highlights identify an MOAR reticle, while the listing details also contain a conflicting MIL-XT reference, so confirm the reticle before ordering.
Best For: Shooters seeking a Dark Earth ATACR with high magnification and MOA-based controls, subject to reticle confirmation.
Pros:
- 7-35x magnification and an ED glass package for long-range work.
- 100 MOA elevation travel and parallax adjustment down to 10 meters.
- First-focal-plane design, ZeroStop, and DigIllum illumination.
Cons:
- Reticle naming conflicts within the supplied listing details; verify the exact configuration.
- At 39.3 oz and 16 inches long, it adds considerable size and weight.
Its Dark Earth finish is the clear distinction from the black ATACR above. Before buying, check the seller’s reticle specification so the delivered scope matches your preferred hold system.
Competition-Focused Pick – Nightforce NX6 6-36x56mm F1
For shooters comparing nightforce long range scopes for target work, the NX6 offers 6-36x magnification, a 56mm objective, and a first-focal-plane MIL-XT reticle. Its FieldSet exposed turrets are designed for repeatable dialing corrections.
Best For: Precision-range and PRS Production class shooters who use mil-based holds and exposed turrets.
Pros:
- 36x maximum magnification for refined aiming at distant, small targets.
- First-focal-plane MIL-XT reticle maintains accurate holds across the zoom range.
- FieldSet exposed turrets, ZeroStop, and 0.1 MRAD clicks.
- DigIllum offers red/green lighting, setting recall, and one-hour auto-off.
Cons:
- Its 6x minimum is less flexible for close targets than the NX8’s 4x minimum.
- The listed weight is 2 pounds, so consider balance on a lighter rifle.
The NX6 makes sense when repeatable turret corrections and mil-based references matter more than a low starting magnification. Close-focus parallax down to 10 meters adds flexibility for shorter-distance setup.
Best for MIL Holds – Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 MIL-XT
Among nightforce long range scopes, this ATACR pairs a 7-35x range with a first-focal-plane MIL-XT reticle for shooters who use holds at varying magnifications. Its ED glass package and 56mm objective support target identification across the zoom range.
Best For: Precision shooters who prefer MIL-based holds and an FFP reticle.
Pros:
- MIL-XT reticle has a fine center dot and 0.2 MRAD hold references.
- 100 MOA of elevation travel, ZeroStop, and parallax adjustment down to 10 meters.
- DigIllum illumination and an included Power Throw Lever.
Cons:
- At 39.3 ounces, it adds substantial weight to a rifle.
- The 7x minimum offers less low-end magnification than the NX6 in this roundup.
Choose this configuration when an FFP MIL-XT reticle matters more to you than keeping the optic light.
Best for MOA Competition Holds – Nightforce NX6 6-36x56mm F1 MOA-C
For shoppers comparing nightforce long range scopes, the NX6 offers a broad 6-36x range and a first-focal-plane MOA-C reticle. Its exposed FieldSet turrets and 1/4 MOA clicks suit shooters who dial corrections as well as hold for wind or elevation.
Best For: MOA-based precision shooters, including PRS Production class competitors.
Pros:
- FFP reticle references remain accurate throughout the magnification range.
- FieldSet exposed turrets, ZeroStop, and close-focus parallax down to 10 meters.
- DigIllum offers red or green lighting, last-setting recall, and one-hour auto-off.
Cons:
- Its MOA-C reticle and 1/4 MOA clicks may not suit shooters committed to MRAD measurements.
- The listed weight is 2 pounds, so it is not an especially light setup.
The NX6 is the practical pick here if you want FFP MOA holds, exposed dialing controls, and a 6x low end in one scope.
Best for Fine SFP Aiming – Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F2 MOAR-T
Among nightforce long range scopes, this ATACR stands out for its second-focal-plane MOAR-T reticle and fine 0.0625 MOA lines. It combines a 7-35x range with ED glass, ZeroStop, and an illuminated reticle center for extended-range aiming.
Best For: Shooters who want a fine SFP MOA reticle for deliberate long-range aiming.
Pros:
- MOAR-T reticle provides fine lines and 1 MOA elevation and windage markings.
- 100 MOA elevation travel, ZeroStop, and parallax adjustment from 11 yards to infinity.
- Includes flip-up covers, a sunshade, and a Power Throw Lever.
Cons:
- As an SFP scope, its reticle markings do not retain the same subtensions at every magnification.
- At 39.3 ounces, it is a substantial addition to a rifle.
Pick the F2 if you favor its fine MOAR-T aiming pattern; choose an FFP model instead if you need hold references that stay accurate throughout the zoom range.
Widest Zoom Range – Nightforce NX6 6-36x56mm F1
Among these nightforce long range scopes, the NX6 6-36x56mm offers the highest top-end magnification. Its first focal plane MIL-C reticle keeps hold references consistent as you zoom, while the 56mm objective supports a clear view in varied light.
Best For: Shooters who want 36x magnification, MRAD holds, and exposed turrets for long-range targets or PRS Production competition.
Pros:
- 6-36x range supports mid-range target acquisition and detailed aiming at distance.
- FieldSet exposed turrets and 0.1 MRAD clicks support quick, repeatable dialing.
- DigIllum offers red or green illumination, last-setting recall, and auto-off.
Cons:
- Its 6x minimum provides less low-end magnification than the 5x models here.
- The MIL-C reticle and MRAD adjustments may not suit shooters who prefer MOA.
Choose this NX6 if extra magnification and close-focus parallax down to 10 m matter more to you than a lower starting power.
The ATACR 5-25x56mm F1 stands out among nightforce long range scopes for shooters who work in MOA. Its MOA-XT reticle pairs a fine floating center dot with labeled hold marks and a dot grid, while ED glass is intended to deliver sharp, bright images.
Best For: Long-range shooters who prefer an illuminated first focal plane MOA reticle with detailed hold references.
Pros:
- MOA-XT markings remain accurate across the 5-25x magnification range.
- ED glass and a 56mm objective support clear target identification.
- Specified 120 MOA elevation adjustment range provides room for dialing.
Cons:
- 25x maximum magnification is lower than either NX6 model here.
- The detailed MOA-XT grid may be more reticle than shooters seeking a simpler sight picture need.
This is the clearest fit of the three for an MOA-based setup; consider the NX6 options instead if 30x or 36x top-end magnification is a priority.
For buyers comparing nightforce long range scopes, the NX6 5-30x56mm splits the difference between the 25x ATACR and 36x NX6. It combines a first focal plane MIL-C reticle, a 56mm objective, and FieldSet exposed turrets for shooters who alternate between holding and dialing.
Best For: Competition, range, or field shooters who want a 5x low end, 30x top end, and MRAD-based controls.
Pros:
- 5-30x magnification covers a broad range of target distances.
- FFP MIL-C reticle and 0.1 MRAD clicks keep holds and adjustments in the same system.
- FieldSet turrets support fast zero reset; DigIllum offers red or green lighting at five brightness levels.
Cons:
- 30x maximum magnification falls short of the NX6 6-36x model.
- Its MRAD-based setup is less suitable if your existing references are in MOA.
Pick this configuration when a 5x starting power and substantial 30x reach are more useful than chasing the highest magnification in the lineup.
How We Picked the Best Nightforce Long Range Scopes
We focused on the listed ATACR, NX8, and NX6 configurations and the differences that matter when choosing a long-range optic: magnification range, objective size, and first- versus second-focal-plane design. Several of the 10 selected listings share the same model name, so treat them as configurations to compare rather than 10 distinct scope families. Before buying, check each listing’s exact reticle, adjustment units, illumination, and included accessories; those details cannot be established from the model names alone.
Quick Comparison
ATACR 7-35×56 F1: A high-magnification, first-focal-plane choice for shooters who prioritize aiming precision at distance. ATACR 7-35×56 F2: The same stated magnification range with a second-focal-plane reticle; check the specified magnification at which reticle holdovers are calibrated. ATACR 5-25×56 F1: A lower starting magnification than the 7-35x model for more flexibility at moderate distances.
NX8 4-32×50 F1: The widest stated magnification span here, with the lowest starting power and a 50 mm objective. NX6 6-36×56 F1: The highest listed top-end magnification. NX6 5-30×56 F1: An alternative NX6 range with a lower starting power. These numbers help narrow the field, but they do not establish image quality, field of view, weight, or value.
Key Buying Factors for Nightforce Long-Range Scopes
Magnification and Shooting Distance
More power can help with small targets and careful aiming from a stable position, but it also narrows the view and makes mirage and rifle movement more apparent. If you engage targets at varied distances or need to find them quickly, pay attention to the low end of the range—not just the maximum.
Focal Plane and Reticle
On an F1 scope, the reticle’s angular hold references remain consistent throughout the magnification range, which can simplify holding for elevation or wind at different powers. On an F2 scope, those references generally match their marked values at a specified magnification. Confirm the reticle’s calibration point and whether its markings match your preferred turret units.
Fit, Controls, and Total Cost
Confirm mounting clearance for the objective and your rifle setup, then compare scope weight, eye relief, turret adjustment range, and the reticle offered on the exact listing. Budget for compatible rings or a mount. If possible, look through the candidates at the magnifications you expect to use; model names and objective diameters cannot tell you which sight picture you will prefer.
Who Should Buy Which Nightforce Long Range Scopes?
Choose an ATACR 7-35×56 F1 if your priority is a high-power scope with usable reticle holds across magnifications. Consider the ATACR 7-35×56 F2 if you prefer a reticle that appears the same size as you zoom and typically use its calibrated power for holds. The ATACR 5-25×56 F1 suits shooters who want an ATACR option that starts at 5x.
Among the other Nightforce Long Range Scopes listed, the NX8 4-32×50 F1 is worth comparing if a 4x low end appeals to you. Pick between the NX6 5-30×56 F1 and NX6 6-36×56 F1 according to whether a lower starting power or greater maximum magnification better fits your shooting. Make the final decision using the exact reticle, dimensions, and price of the configuration for sale.