In this article we put emphasis on the best 50mm rifle scope recommendations, a 50mm rifle scope is known for its ability to gather ample light, offering bright and clear images even in low-light conditions, making it an ideal choice for dawn and dusk hunts.
Its versatility extends to various shooting disciplines, such as target shooting and long-range precision shooting.
When selecting the best 50mm rifle scope, there are several critical factors to consider such as the scope’s optical quality, reticle type, durability, adjustment turrets, and the specific application it will be used for, among other things.
What does 50mm Mean on a Rifle scope?
What is a 50mm Scope Good for?
Here are some of the key applications of a 50mm rifle scope:
- Low-Light Hunting: A 50mm scope excels in low-light conditions, such as dawn and dusk, making it an ideal choice for hunters. It provides enhanced visibility and clarity during the times when many game animals are most active. This can be particularly valuable for hunting in wooded areas or when tracking game during twilight hours.
- Long-Range Shooting: For shooters engaged in long-range precision shooting or target shooting, a 50mm scope offers the advantage of a clear and bright sight picture even at extended distances. The added light-gathering capability can help you spot targets and make precise shots at a variety of ranges.
- Varmint and Predator Hunting: When hunting small or elusive targets, like varmints or predators, a 50mm scope’s superior light transmission can be invaluable. It allows you to spot and take shots at these animals in low-light conditions or from a distance.
- Tactical and Competitive Shooting: Some tactical and competitive shooters prefer 50mm scopes for their performance across a range of lighting conditions. These scopes can be used in various competitions and scenarios, providing clear and bright images regardless of the time of day.
- Scouting and Surveillance: In applications where observation and surveillance are critical, a 50mm scope can be a valuable tool. It provides clear images over a wide field of view, making it suitable for tasks like wildlife observation, border surveillance, and search-and-rescue operations.
What Makes the Best 50mm Rifle Scope?
Optical Quality
The clarity, brightness, and sharpness of the image are paramount. Look for fully multi-coated lenses, high-quality glass, and an anti-reflective lens coating to enhance light transmission and reduce glare.
Reticle Type
Choose a reticle that suits your shooting needs, whether it’s a simple duplex reticle for hunting, a BDC (bullet drop compensation) reticle for long-range shooting, or a mil-dot reticle for precise holdovers.
Durability
A robust construction is essential. The scope should be built to withstand the recoil of your firearm and rough handling in the field. Look for scopes with a single-piece tube, aircraft-grade aluminum construction, and waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof capabilities.
Turrets and Adjustments
Easily adjustable turrets with crisp, audible clicks are important for making precise adjustments. Zero-stop or zero-reset features can be valuable for returning to your original settings.
Reticle Illumination An illuminated reticle is beneficial for low-light conditions. Make sure it has adjustable brightness settings for various lighting situations.
Eye Relief
Sufficient eye relief is critical to prevent injury from recoil and maintain comfort during extended shooting sessions.
Best 50mm Rifle Scopes
1) ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Edition 3-14x50mm Smart HD Riflescope
ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Edition 3-14x50mm Smart HD Riflescope is the best 50mm rifle scope if you are looking for a Day/Night Rifle Scope. This technological marvel is designed for hunters and shooters who put emphasis on precision, convenience, and enhanced functionality.
With a Smart Mil-Dot Reticle, you are able to customize the reticle based on your specific ammunition load. You can program the variance between the hash marks in Mils, ensuring precise and accurate shots.
The X-Sight 4K Pro features a dual stream video capability to stream HD video and simultaneously record it to the SD card helping you capture your shooting experiences and share them with others.
Built to withstand the recoil of high-caliber weapons, the X-Sight 4K Pro is constructed with a hardened aluminum alloy and impact-resistant electronics. This ensures durability and reliability in the face of powerful firearms.
The Smart Range Finder feature provides a fast and easy way to estimate the distance to your target. By taking two easy readings of your target, the scope not only calculates the range but also adjusts your reticle’s Point of Impact instantly.
The X-Sight 4K Pro is designed for user-friendliness, with straightforward mounting and intuitive controls, ensuring a hassle-free experience in the field.
The ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Edition 3-14x50mm Smart HD Riflescope is a versatile riflescope offering unprecedented accuracy and convenience for hunters and shooters thanks to its advanced features, rugged build, and day and night capabilities.
Specifications
- Weight: 2.1 lb
- Length: 13.8 in
- Eye Relief: 90 mm
- Focus Range: 5 m to Infinity
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
Pros
- You can customize the Smart Mil-Dot Reticle based on your specific ammunition load
- Allows HD Video Streaming while simultaneously recording them on the SD card
- Recoil Activated Video (RAV)
- Ultra Low Power Consumption
- One shot zero for seamless zeroing in
- Able to withstand the recoil of high-caliber weapons
- Auxiliary Ballistic Laser (ABL) for long-range applications
- Easy to Mount and Easy to Use
Cons
- None
2) Vortex Crossfire II AO 4-12x50mm Rifle Scope
Vortex Crossfire II AO 4-12x50mm Rifle Scope is the best 50mm rifle scope if you are looking for an affordable option. It is the best 50mm scope under $200.The scope comes packed with incredible features without breaking the bank. It features clear and bright optics, rugged construction, and user-friendly features, the Crossfire II offers the clarity and durability needed to take your shooting experience to the next level.
The Crossfire II offers generous eye relief, allowing shooters to maintain a comfortable shooting position while ensuring their safety, especially with higher-recoil firearms.
With a fast-focus eyepiece, adjusting the reticle to your eyesight is quick and easy, ensuring rapid target acquisition and improved accuracy. The scope features fully multi-coated lenses that maximize light transmission and minimize glare, resulting in a clear and bright image even in challenging lighting conditions.
The Crossfire II comes equipped with resettable turrets, for easy adjustment for windage and elevation, and easy return to your zero settings without the need for tools. The scope is built with a robust, shockproof design that can withstand recoil and impact, ensuring its reliability and durability even under harsh shooting conditions.
The hard-anodized, single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube is not only lightweight but also exceptionally durable. It provides a strong and rigid platform for the optic, ensuring that it can handle the rigors of the field and the recoil of your rifle. The Crossfire II is nitrogen-purged and o-ring sealed, making it both waterproof and fogproof. This feature guarantees that the scope remains clear and functional even in adverse weather conditions, such as rain or fog.
Specifications
- Weight: 20.6 oz
- Length: 14.2 in
- Eye Relief: 3.9 – 4.4 in
- Tube Diameter: 1 in
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
Pros
- Fully Multi-Coated Optics
- Generous eye relief
- Fast-Focus Eyepiece for quick and easy target acquisition
- Fully Multi-Coated Lenses
- Resettable MOA Turrets for easy windage and elevation adjustments
- Robust and shockproof design
- Waterproof and fog proof performance
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
3) EOTech Vudu 5-25x50mm Rifle Scope
EOTech Vudu 5-25x50mm Rifle Scope is your best 50mm Rifle Scope if you are looking for a high-end scope, it features XC High-Density Glass optical coating, Laser-etched adjustment indicators, Hard Anodized finish Water-resistant, fog-resistant, shock-resistant performance and a First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle.
The Rifle Scope features nitrogen gas purging for internal fogging prevention over the entire operating temperature range. This feature ensures that you have a clear and unobstructed view, even in cold or humid conditions.
Constructed with a single-piece tube and o-ring seals, this scope is fully water-resistant. It can withstand exposure to rain, water splashes, and even submersion, making it ideal for use in wet and unpredictable outdoor environments.
The Scope features XC high-density, low-dispersion glass with anti-reflective coated lenses for exceptional light transmission, reducing glare and maximizing image clarity resulting in unmatched edge-to-edge clarity.
This rifle scope is built to withstand the rigors of heavy recoil and rough handling. Its rugged design ensures that it remains undamaged, maintaining its accuracy and performance in demanding shooting situations. The scope is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum and has a single-piece construction with an anodized finish, which adds to its extreme durability.
Additional features of the EOTech Vudu 5-25x50mm Rifle Scope include laser-etched adjustment indicators for precise targeting and push-button illumination controls for easy adjustment, even in low-light conditions.
Specifications
- Weight: 29.5 oz
- Length: 11.2 in
- Eye Relief: 3.7 in
- Tube Diameter: 34 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
Pros
- XC High-Density Glass Optical coating
- Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Laser-etched adjustment indicators
- Hard Anodized finish
- Water-resistant, fog-resistant, and shock-resistant performance
- First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle
- Push-button illumination controls for tracking
Cons
- Water resistance to 1 m only.
4) Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x50mm Rifle Scope
Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x50mm Rifle Scope comes packed with features such as rugged construction, Custom Dial System, ZeroLock, lightweight aluminum housing, scratch-resistant lenses, and robust weatherproofing. This is your best 50mm Rifle Scope if you are looking for precision, durability, and reliability.
One of the standout features of the Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x50mm Rifle Scope is the Custom Dial System (CDS). This system allows you to tailor your turret (adjustment dial) to your specific ballistics and the prevailing environmental conditions. By customizing the dial, you ensure that your shots are perfectly on target.
The ZeroLock feature effectively eliminates the risk of accidental dial movement by securely locking it in place. This feature ensures that your carefully calculated adjustments stay exactly where you want them, so you can rely on consistent accuracy even in challenging situations.
Constructed from lightweight aluminum, the Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x50mm Rifle Scope offers exceptional durability without adding unnecessary weight. This is particularly important for hunters and shooters who need to maintain mobility and balance while carrying their rifles in the field. The lightweight build doesn’t compromise on ruggedness, ensuring that your scope can endure the rigors of outdoor use.
The lenses of this scope are protected by hardened surface coatings that meet stringent military standards for scratch resistance. This ensures that your optical clarity remains uncompromised, even in rough and demanding conditions. Your lenses will stay free from scratches and damage, allowing you to maintain a clear view of your target.
Leupold has a long history of pioneering advanced waterproof and fogproof technology, and the VX-3HD is no exception. The scope’s internal gasses and sealing methods are designed to withstand extreme temperatures, elevation changes, and shocks. This ensures that the optics remain moisture-free and crystal clear throughout the scope’s entire lifespan. It’s a scope that’s truly built to endure the harshest environmental conditions without compromising on performance
Specifications
- Weight: 14.7 oz
- Length: 12.3 in
- Eye Relief: 3.6 – 4.5 in
- Tube Diameter: 1 in
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
Pros
- Waterproof, Fogproof, & Shockproof
- Custom Dial System (CDS)
- Zero Lock Dial to eliminate the risk of accidental dial movement
- 6061-T6 Aluminum durable and strong construction
- CDS-ZL Duplex and Duplex reticles
- Lightweight Aluminum Housing
- Scratch Resistant Lenses
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
5) Athlon Optics Argos HMR 4-20x50mm Rifle Scope
Athlon Optics Argos HMR 4-20x50mm Rifle Scope is the best choice if you are looking for a scope that excels in low-light conditions and delivers outstanding clarity and precision.
With HD glass for improved light transmission, advanced fully multicoated optics, an etched glass reticle for durability, and an illuminated reticle with bullet drop holdovers, this scope is a versatile tool that enhances your hunting experience, making it easier to spot and accurately target game, even in challenging lighting conditions.
With HD (High-Definition) glass, the sope offers superior light transmission for brighter and sharper images, even in low-light conditions, such as dawn or dusk. The enhanced clarity and image quality allow you to spot your target with greater ease and precision. The scope features advanced fully multicoated optics that effectively reduce reflected light and significantly increase light transmission for remarkably brighter images.
The Athlon Argos HMR incorporates an etched reticle on the glass, offering several advantages. This design not only ensures excellent support for complex reticle designs but also provides exceptional durability. The etched reticle significantly enhances shock resistance to recoil, meaning you can rely on your scope to maintain accuracy, even when firing powerful shots.
Specifications
- Weight: 21 oz
- Length: 13.25 in
- Eye Relief: 3.6 in
- Tube Diameter: 1 in
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
Pros
- Advanced Fully Multi-Coated optics
- Durable and strong Aircraft Grade Aluminum
- Waterproof, Fog Proof and Shockproof
- HD Glass for Superior Light Transmission
- Advanced Fully Multicoated Optics
- Reticle Etched on Glass for Durability
Cons
- None
6) Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x50mm Riflescope
The Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x50mm Riflescope is the best 50mm scope for deer hunting, it is a robust and versatile riflescope with fully multi-coated optics, aircraft-grade aluminum construction, waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof design, hard anodized finish, capped reset turrets, and fast focus eyepiece.
The Crossfire II features fully multi-coated lenses to enhance light transmission and image clarity. They reduce glare and reflections for bright and crisp sight pictures, even in challenging lighting conditions.
The scope is built around a single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube to maximize strength and durability. This design not only adds to the scope’s overall ruggedness but also enhances its resistance to shock and recoil, ensuring it can withstand the demands of heavy use.It is built to withstand the rigors of the field.
The Crossfire II is engineered to excel in adverse environmental conditions. It is waterproof, ensuring it can handle wet conditions and even submersion without compromising performance. Additionally, it is fogproof, thanks to advanced sealing methods and internal gasses that prevent fogging during temperature and humidity fluctuations. The scope is also shockproof, built to endure heavy recoil and rough handling.
The scope is finished with a hard anodized coating, which enhances its durability and resistance to wear and tear. This finish not only adds an extra layer of protection but also provides a sleek and professional appearance.
The capped reset turrets allow for easy and quick adjustments to your windage and elevation settings. They are designed for simplicity and convenience, making it straightforward to reset to zero after making adjustments.
Specifications
- Weight: 18.4 oz
- Length: 12.7 in
- Eye Relief: 3.8 in
- Tube Diameter: 1 in
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
Pros
- Fully multi-coated lenses for enhanced light transmission
- Waterproof, fog proof, and Shockproof
- Aircraft-grade aluminum tube to maximize strength and durability
- Hard Anodized Finish for low glare, durability, and camouflage
- Capped reset turrets for easy and quick windage and elevation adjustments
- Fast focus eyepiece for quick and easy reticle focusing
Related
Best 50mm Rifle Scope FAQs
Is a 50mm scope better than 40mm?
A 50mm scope offers superior light-gathering capabilities, making it ideal for low-light conditions and long-range shooting. It provides a brighter and clearer image, especially during dawn and dusk. However, it’s bulkier and heavier than a 40mm scope, which can be a disadvantage for shooters who prioritize a more compact and lightweight setup. The choice between the two should be based on the type of shooting you do and your personal priorities regarding size, weight, and light performance.
Why 50mm is better than 35mm?
A 50mm scope can be considered better than a 35mm scope in certain situations due to its superior light-gathering capabilities. The larger 50mm objective lens allows more light to enter the scope, resulting in a brighter and clearer sight picture. This is especially beneficial in low-light conditions such as dawn and dusk, providing enhanced visibility for hunters.
Additionally, the increased light transmission can aid in target identification and precision at longer ranges, making a 50mm scope an excellent choice for shooters who demand optimal performance in challenging lighting scenarios. However, the choice between a 50mm and 35mm scope ultimately depends on the specific shooting needs and preferences of the individual shooter.
What is a 50mm rifle scope good for?
A 50mm rifle scope is excellent for low-light hunting, long-range shooting, varmint and predator hunting, tactical and competitive shooting, and scouting or surveillance due to its light-gathering capabilities.
Are 50mm rifle scopes heavy and bulky?
While 50mm scopes are larger and heavier than their smaller counterparts, they vary in weight and size. Some are designed to be more compact and lightweight, while others are bulkier. Consider your firearm and intended use when selecting the size of the scope.
What is the difference between first focal plane (FFP) and second focal plane (SFP) reticles in a 50mm scope? FFP reticles maintain their size relative to the target at all magnification levels, making holdovers and ranging calculations accurate at any zoom setting. SFP reticles keep their size constant, which can be useful for quick target acquisition but may require additional calculations for holdovers.
Are 50mm scopes more expensive than smaller scopes?
The cost of a 50mm scope can vary depending on the brand, features, and build quality. While some 50mm scopes may be more expensive, there are options available at various price points to suit different budgets.
What are the advantages of a 50mm scope over a smaller objective lens?
A 50mm scope offers superior light-gathering capabilities, making it ideal for low-light shooting conditions. It can provide brighter and clearer images during dawn, dusk, and other challenging lighting situations.
What factors should I consider when choosing the best 50mm rifle scope?
Key factors to consider include optical quality, reticle type, durability, turrets and adjustments, magnification range, objective lens size, reticle illumination, eye relief, price vs. features, warranty, and customer support. Your specific shooting needs and budget will also play a role in your decision.
Final Thoughts
The best 50mm rifle scope has the capacity to gather light in challenging conditions, such as low-light hunting and long-range precision shooting, which has made it a popular choice among enthusiasts and professionals alike. As we’ve explored the features and considerations that define them, it’s evident that the ideal choice varies from one shooter to another.
Whether you prioritize optical quality, a specific reticle type, durability, or budget constraints, the best scope for you is the one that aligns perfectly with your shooting needs and preferences. The right 50mm rifle scope enhances your accuracy, extends your shooting capabilities, and ultimately elevates your overall shooting experience.