In this review, we look at the best budget rifle scope recommendations and look at the specifications, features, pros, and cons. Rifle scopes come in different styles and budgets to cater to the needs of every user out there.
When it comes to hunting and shooting, having a good riflescope will always make a huge difference in accuracy and overall experience. However, not every rifle owner has the budget for a high-end riflescope. That’s where a budget riflescope comes in.
With the technological improvements in the field of optics, rifle scopes have become more and more affordable. Different manufacturers are coming up with affordable riflescopes that have a full range of abilities to match your hunting or shooting needs. Besides, these scopes are built well to offer reliable performance in any field conditions.
Best Budget Rifle Scope Buyers Guide
Even when you are on a budget, you want a scope that is built well with quality features. Here is what you should look for in the best budget scopes.
Magnification Power
Look for a scope that offers amagnification power that is versatile enough to meet all your needs. The broader the zoom power a riflescope has, the more versatile it will be. Also, consider how far you will be shooting and the environment you will be shooting at.
Glass Quality
The higher the glass quality, the better. While glass quality in scopes is best with the high-end models, there are some budget models with better glass too. Go for the best glass quality you can afford. Also, ensure that the scope has quality lens coatings or even multicoated ones.
Durability
Shop for a scope that is built to last. It should have a housing that is shockproof, impact-resistant, and recoil-proof to withstand rough handling and whatever nature throws at it. Additionally, look for a scope that is fully waterproof and fog proof.
Eye Relief
Going cheap doesn’t mean that you sacrifice eye relief. If you fail to pay attention to this important feature, you will end up with a black eye if you use it on a high-recoiling rifle. To avoid that, get a scope that has a generous eye relief of at least 3.5”. The longer the eye relief is, the more comfortable the scope will be to use.
In this post, we have taken out time and compiled these reviews of the best budget scopes to help you make a wise selection. Also, we have included a comprehensive guide on what you should look for when buying one. Let’s take a look.
Best Budget Rifle Scopes
1) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm Riflescope is the best budget 1-6 AR scope. It harbors a ton of fine, reliable, and easy-to-use features that make it by far the best budget scope out there.
By mounting this rifle scope on your hunting or shooting rifle, you will improve your precision greatly. It boasts fully multi-coated lenses and extra-low dispersion glass that together increase light transmission and provide crisp clear target views.
Beyond the high-quality and stunning views, the Strike Eagle rifle scope is made to last. It has an anodized aluminum tube that is made for use in challenging and unfavorable conditions. Besides, it is resistant to elements as it is fog proofed and waterproofed.
The scope brings to the table a fast-focus eyepiece for quick and simple reticle focusing. It also features an illuminated reticle that is glass-etched for optimum durability and reliability.
Specifications
- Length: 10.5 in
- Weight: 18.5 oz
- Field of View, Linear: 19.2 – 116.5 ft at 100 yds
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.5 in
- Exit Pupil: 4 – 24 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
Pros
- Water, fog, and shockproof
- Second focal plane reticle
- XD lens elements
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Fully multi-coated coatings
- 30mm aircraft grade aluminum body tube
- Crystal clear glass
- True 1x magnification
- Easy to mount and use
- Illuminated reticle
Cons
- Not ideal for long range
2) Leapers UTG 3-12x44mm Compact Rifle Scope
This Leapers UTG 3-12x44mm has an illuminated reticle that guarantees visibility in different lighting conditions and a variable and versatile 3-12x zoom power.
Built on a True Strength Platform, the scope is sealed and filled with nitrogen to be fully waterproof and fog proof.
The shockproof construction weathers whatever punishment you subject the scope to, while the special circuit and housing design offer uninterrupted illumination under fierce recoil.
Furthermore, the scope has the best-in-class Emerald coated lenses that offer the best image clarity by maximizing light transmission. It is also equipped with a side wheel adjustable turret for parallax adjustment.
Specifications
- Length: 11.1 in
- Weight: 23.1 oz
- Field of View, Linear: 10 – 32 ft at 100 yds
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Eye Relief: 3 – 3.4 in
- Exit Pupil: 3.9 – 13 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
Pros
- Strong and durable 30mm body tube
- Waterproof and nitrogen filled
- Multi Emerald coated lenses
- Low-profile illumination control
- Adjustable parallax
- Flip-open Lens Caps
- Lightweight and compact
- EZ-TAP Illumination Enhancing Technology
- Range Estimating Mil-dot Reticle
- Illuminated reticle
- Premium Zero Locking and Zero Resetting Target Turrets
Cons
- Not very effective in long-range even with its high magnifications
3) Bushnell Banner 1.5-4.5×32 Multi-X Rifle Scope
If you are looking for a scope for use in low-light settings, look no further. Bushnell Banner 1.5-4.5×32 Multi-X Rifle Scope is the best budget scope for low light.
It has Dusk & Dawn Brightness multi-coated lenses that cast great clarity and brightness, even in critically low light settings.
The scope is built for use in any environment. It has a sturdy 1-piece tube housing that is shockproof to take in the beating. Better yet, it is 100% waterproof and fog proof for use in all weather conditions.
Another outstanding thing about the scope is the lightweight construction. It weighs 10.5 oz only and is very easy to use. It also features a fast-focus eyepiece that makes it easy to bring the reticle into focus.
Specifications
- Length: 10.5 in
- Weight: 10.5 oz
- Field of View: 67ft @ 1.5X to 23ft @ 4X
- Tube Diameter: 1″
- Eye Relief: 4 in
- Exit Pupil: 7 – 17 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
Pros
- One-piece tube for strength and durability
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Waterproof and fog proof
- 1/4 MOA fingertip windage and elevation adjustment
- Matte finish for low glare
- Great low-light visibility
- Ample eye relief
- Lightweight and durable
Cons
- No zero stop
4) Vortex Crossfire II 1-4x24mm Rifle Scope
Vortex prides itself in making high-quality and affordable optics and this is clear in the Crossfire II 1-4x24mm Rifle Scope. It has a 30mm tube diameter and an incredibly versatile magnification that makes it a perfect choice for most shooting and hunting tasks.
Vortex Crossfire II 1-4x24mm is the best budget scope for 100 yards. The scope is built with fully multi-coated optics which provide exceptionally clear images, even in poor light settings.
Complementing the quality lens coatings is an illuminated reticle with 11 brightness settings to ensure great visibility in all lighting conditions.
Moreover, the scope has an aircraft-grade aluminum housing that guarantees durability and longevity. It is also waterproof, fog proof and shockproof to provide supreme reliability in any condition.
Specifications
- Length: 9.8 in
- Weight: 16 oz
- Field of View: 24.1 – 96.1 ft at 100 yds
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Eye Relief: 4 in
- Exit Pupil: 6 – 24 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
Pros
- Anodized finish
- Second focal plane reticle
- Fully multi-coated optics
- 30mm strong body tube
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Robust aircraft-grade aluminum housing
- Illuminated reticle
- Generous eye relief
- Lightweight and durable
Cons
- No night vision
5) Bushnell AR Optics 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
To fine-tune your accuracy and increase your target acquisition speed, the Bushnell AR Optics 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope is your perfect solution. It is made with a vast range of features that are designed to increase your efficiency in the hunting field.
Bushnell AR Optics 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope is the best budget scope for 500 yards and close to medium-range applications with an AR rifle.
The 1-6x magnification will help you pursue game across vast distances and perform reliably when you need it the most. At close ranges, the scope provides a wide field of view and unmatched target acquisition speed at longer ranges.
Besides, two throw-down power change levers are provided to ensure quick and easy magnification adjustment.
Regarding construction, Bushnell made this compact scope to be virtually indestructible. It has a robust build quality to stand up to bumps and rough use. Additionally, the turrets are capped to provide additional protection in the field and prevent accidental adjustments.
The scope also boasts a waterproof and fog-proof construction for use in all conditions, and an illuminated reticle that provides a clear aiming point in low-light settings.
Specifications
- Length: 10.2 in
- Weight: 16.5 oz
- Field of View: 1 – 6 ft at 100 ft
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.6 in
- Exit Pupil: 4 – 24 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
Pros
- Capped turrets
- Fully multi-coated lens
- Instant magnification changes with the Throw Down Power Change Lever
- Waterproof and fog proof construction
- One of the best LPVOs
- Illuminated BTR-1 BDC reticle
- 1-6x variable magnification power
- Good eye relief
- Lightweight and compact design
- Crisp clear glass
- Great build quality
Cons
- Not ideal for long-range shooting
6) Primary Arms SLx Series 1-6 x 24mm Rifle Scope
Next on our list of the best budget scope is the Primary Arms SLx Series 1-6 x 24mm Rifle Scope. This rifle scope has a 30mm body tube that is compatible with a wide range of rifles and very easy to mount and detach.
It employs a second focal plane duplex reticle with an illuminated center dot. Construction-wise, the scope features an aluminum housing that is shockproof to stand rough use and heavy recoil. It is also protected from weather elements for safe use even in adverse weather conditions.
With a weight of 16.9 oz only, you will find the scope light and easy to maneuver the field. Best of all, it has fully multi-coated lens for optimal light transmission.
Specifications
- Length: 10 in
- Weight: 16.9 oz
- Field of View: 110 – 19.3 ft at 100 yds
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Eye Relief: 4 in
- Exit Pupil: 4 – 9 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
Pros
- Second focal plane illuminated reticle
- Matte finish for reduced glare and durability
- Waterproof and nitrogen-filled (fogproof)
- 30mm 6063 Aluminum main tube
- Fully multi-coated lenses
Cons
- None
7) SightMark Citadel 1-6x24mm CR1 Rifle Scope
SightMark Citadel 1-6x24mm CR1 Rifle Scope is the best budge scope for close and medium range shooting. It combines outstanding performance with a stealthy appearance that most shooters and gun enthusiasts alike.
The scope is designed with a rear focal plane BDC reticle that is calibrated for 55gr 5.56/.223. The reticle is illuminated to enhance its contrast against targets in low-light settings. Besides, the scope has fully multi-coated lenses that maximize optical clarity from dawn to dusk.
To prevent unintended adjustments in the field, the scope has capped, low-profile turrets. It also boasts rugged aluminum housing that is fog proof and IPX7 waterproof for use in a variety of weather conditions.
Specifications
- Length: 10.7 in
- Weight: 16.2 oz
- Field of View: 18.8 – 113.9 ft at 100 yds
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.9 in
- Exit Pupil: 3.85 – 8.5 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
Pros
- Waterproof, dustproof, and fog proof
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Capped, low-profile turrets
- Single-piece 30mm Aluminum tube
- Crisp clear optics
- Illuminated reticle
- Solid construction
- Sufficient eye relief
Cons
- None
8) Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
The Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is designed for enthusiasts who are in need of a simple, easy-to-use, and affordable sighting tool. It is ideal for all-round hunting and recreational shooting too.
With this rifle scope, the reticle is put on the second focal plane. It is simple to use even for beginners and offers supreme accuracy. Moreover, the scope boasts a high-grade optical glass system that yields excellent brightness and clarity.
The finger-adjustable windage and elevation turrets give the scope a sleek profile. During use, the turret indicators reflect a change in the point of impact for pinpoint accuracy. The scope also features a shockproof housing that is waterproof and nitrogen filled to keep the lenses fog-free.
Specifications
- Length: 12.2 in
- Weight: 13 oz
- Field of View: 13 – 33 ft at 100 yds
- Tube Diameter: 1 in
- Eye Relief: 3.1 – 3.4 in
- Exit Pupil: 5 – 13 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
Pros
- Hi-Lume multi-coating
- Finger adjustable windage and elevation turrets
- High-grade optical glass
- Double internal spring-tension system
- Waterproof and nitrogen filled
- Second focal plane reticle
- Lightweight design
- Solid construction
- Great optics
Cons
- Non-illuminated
9) BSA Optics Tactical Weapon 1-4x24mm Rifle Scope
If you are a beginner in hunting or shooting, the BSA Optics Tactical Weapon 1-4x24mm Rifle Scope is a great sighting tool to start with. It is not just inexpensive, but also simple to use.
The scope features a versatile 1-4x magnification power, ideal for close and medium-range use. It employs a Mil-Dot reticle that is put on the second focal plane to offer great accuracy at all ranges. It also boasts fully-coated optics which enhance light transmission in low-light settings.
Construction-wise, the scope has a 30mm main tube made from high-strength aluminum. The solid construction guarantees strength and durability, without being bulky. The scope is also built to be operable in all-weather conditions for added reliability.
Specifications
- Length: 9.5 in
- Weight: 22.2 oz
- Field of View: 97.5 – 23.6 yds at 100 yds
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.5 in
- Exit Pupil: 6 – 24 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
Pros
- 30mm Aluminum main tube
- Fully coated optics
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Mil-Dot reticle
- Durable aluminum housing
- Long eye relief
- Crisp clear optics
- Easy to use
Cons
- Bulky
10) Primary Arms 4-14 x 44mm Rifle Scope
Primary Arms 4-14 x 44mm Rifle Scope is the best budget scope for 223. This rifle scope is uniquely designed to fine tune your accuracy and offer the best success on every mission.
It is built with a vast 4-14x zoom power for use on close and long-distance targets. At every zoom setting, the scope provides crisp clear target views for easy target identification. It also offers a significantly large field of view, for quick target location.
Furthermore, the scope has a tough waterproof, fog-resistant, and shockproof construction to withstand rigorous use when you are not shooting from the relative comfort of the range.
It is also equipped with an FFP ACSS HUD/DMR reticle that is illuminated for use optimal visibility in low-light settings.
Specifications
- Length: 13 in
- Weight: 24 oz
- Field of View: 7.85 – 27.2 ft at 100 yds
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.14 – 3.22 in
- Exit Pupil: 3.3 – 11.2 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
Pros
- Robust aluminum housing
- Adjustable parallax
- First focal plane reticle
- Waterproof and fog-resistant
- Finger adjustable turrets
- Backed by a 3-year warranty
- Locking turrets
- Durable construction
- Illuminated reticle
Cons
- Stiff power adjustment
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, you have found the insight you need about the best budget scope. Being brand and active will help you get the best value out of your purchase. Whatever you have in mind, there is a riflescope out there for you.
Read Also: 7 Best Budget LPVO Scopes