In this buying guide, our focus will be on the best HFT scope. Hunter Field Target (HF) is a popular target shooting sport practiced by many. It is ideal for shooters of all disciplines and is practiced using firearms that are equipped with optical sights.
Whether you are just starting in this target shooting sport or you are a seasoned shooter looking to hone your skills, you need a quality scope by your side. Specialized optics designed for accuracy in fast-paced shooting situations are integral to helping you make the most of this adrenaline-filled activity.
However, finding the best HFT scope is not always a walk in the park. The market is saturated with a multitude of scopes from many brands. This makes the selection process a chore, but we are here to lend a hand.
We have scoured the market and put together a round-up of the best-rated HFT scopes. These rifle scopes bring to the table an array of cutting-edge features and advanced optical systems to help you get the most out of every target shooting expedition. Besides, they are optimized for versatility so you can use them for other applications not just HFT.
What Magnification Range is Ideal for HFT Scopes?
The ideal magnification range for HFT scopes typically falls between 4x and 16x. This range allows shooters to engage targets at varying distances with precision.
Best HFT Scopes
1) Hawke Sport Optics Airmax EV 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope
Hawke Sport Optics AirMax EV 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope is hands down the best HFT scope. It harbors a multitude of top-notch features that you need to fine-tune your shooting skills and make the most out of your target shooting expeditions.
This rifle scope is built to be nearly indestructible. It offers superior strength that is perfect for any field. Furthermore, the optical tube is fully protected from elements such as mist, fog, and moisture to ensure reliable performance in all weather conditions.
Another impressive feature of the scope is the reticle system. It works with your rifle and is fully adjustable to fit varying situations. Moreover, it is placed between two layers of glass for permanency and extra protection.
The optical performance of this rifle scope is also phenomenal. It has a wide-view optical system for quick target acquisition. Additionally, the optics feature 16 layers of coatings for exceptional clarity and light transfer.
Features
- Adjustable objective
- Waterproof, fog-proof and shockproof
- 25 MOA adjustment click value
- Matte finish
- Fully multi-coated optics
- 4-12x magnification power
- Second focal plane reticle
- Wide view optical system
- 1-inch mono-tube chassis
- Fast focus eye bell
- High torque zoom ring
Pros
- Relatively lightweight
- Good eye relief
- Bright and clear optics
- Good quality of the price
Cons
- Non-illuminated
2) Hawke Sport Optics Airmax EV 3-9x40mm AO Rifle Scope
When it comes to versatility, it is hard to beat the Airmax EV 3-9x40mm AO Rifle Scope. It is built with a variable 3-9x magnification power and a multitude of other great features to meet the needs of avid hunters and serious airgun shooters out there.
This rifle scope is made with user convenience in mind. It provides a large field of view for easy target finding. It has a generous eye relief of 3.5 inches so it’s eyeglass-friendly. Furthermore, the lightweight design guarantees easy maneuverability during use.
Optically, the 40mm objective lens enhances performance in low-light settings by collecting as much light as possible inside. Better yet, the optics have several layers of coatings for exceptional optical clarity.
The other noteworthy features the scope brings to the table include an adjustable objective for parallax adjustment and a fast-focus eyebell that enables quick reticle focusing.
Features
- High torque zoom ring
- Wide view optical system
- Glass-etched second focal plane reticle
- Fast focus eyebell
- 1/4 MOA low-profile turrets
- Integrated adjustable objective
- 16-layer fully multi-coated optics
- 80 MOA adjustment range
- Fully waterproof and fogproof
Pros
- Generous eye relief
- Lightweight design
- Great reticle
- Clear adjustments
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
3) BSA Optics Outlook 4-12x44mm Air Rifle Scope
BSA Optics Outlook 4-12x44mm Air Rifle Scope is the best HFT scope for budget-conscious buyers. It stands the test of time even with repetitive use and guarantees unmatched value for money.
The scope has a lightweight design of 19oz only. It is light enough to scatter the heavy recoil that air rifles generate. Furthermore, it is easy to mount, dismount, and use for all shooters no matter the level of experience.
BSA optics are built with durability in mind and this rifle scope is not any different. It is made with an aluminum chassis that guarantees great strength and durability. Over and above that, the scope is fully waterproof, fogproof, and dustproof to provide a lifetime of reliable performance in all fields.
Above all, the BSA Optics Outlook 4-12x44mm Air Rifle Scope has fully coated optics that provide stunning picture brightness, clarity, and detail in all light settings.
Features
- Non-reflective matte finish
- 1/4 MOA adjustment click value
- Fully coated optics
- Waterproof and fogproof construction
- 1-inch tube diameter
- Rugged aluminum housing
- Second focal plane mil-dot reticle
- Fast focus
- Adjustable objective
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Good eye relief
- Illuminated
- Plenty of adjustment
- Clear and bright optics
Cons
- None
4) Burris Fullfield II 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
Burris is a renowned brand in the field of optics. It manufactures an array of premium quality optics and this is clear with the Fullfield II 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope. This rifle scope is light, easy to use, and in general, great for all HFT enthusiasts.
The scope is optimized for durability. It is built with hard-wearing materials in a 1-inch tube. The robust construction married with the waterproof, fog proof, and dustproof design makes the scope ideal for use in any environment.
With a weight of 13oz only, this rifle scope disperses recoil efficiently no matter the intensity. The broad 50 MOA adjustment range ensures optimal flexibility while the large field of view helps with quick target identification.
And that’s not all. The Fullfield II 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope boasts Hi-Lume multi-coated optics that work together with high-grade optical glass to provide excellent brightness and clarity. It is also outfitted with positive steel-on-steel adjustments that guarantee repeated accuracy.
Features
- Waterproof and nitrogen-filled
- Durable, integrated eyepiece design
- High-grade optical glass
- Second focal plane reticle
- Hi-Lume multi-coated optics
- Aircraft-grade aluminum housing
- 1/4 MOA adjustment click value
- 1-inch tube diameter
- Matte finish
Pros
- Clear and quality glass
- Phenomenal low-light performance
- Lightweight
- Simple to use
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
5) Vortex Diamondback 4-16x44mm Rifle Scope
Carrying the renowned Vortex name, the Diamondback 4-16x44mm 30mm Rifle Scope is the best HFT scope for the money. It delivers the ultimate optical performance in all environments and is ideal for use at medium to long ranges.
This rifle scope offers all the benefits of a tactical rifle scope without the bulk. It comes with exposed turrets that provide unmatched tracking performance in all fields. Additionally, it boasts a fast-focus eyepiece to help you lock onto targets quickly and easily.
Construction-wise, the scope is optimized for durability. It has a tough aluminum housing that is able to stand up to whatever abuse you subject it to. Moreover, the entire scope is fully waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof to handle powerful recoil and harsh weather conditions.
The optical system of this rifle scope is also stunning. The extra-low dispersion glass complements the 44mm objective lens by enhancing optical clarity and resolution. Also, the scope has fully multi-coated lenses which ramp up the light transmission in the low-light settings.
Features
- Advanced optical system
- Fully waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- 30mm tube diameter
- First focal plane reticle
- Hard anodized finish
- Aircraft-grade aluminum housing
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Precision-glide erector system
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Raised magnification rib
Pros
- Clear glass
- True tracking
- Holds zero well
- Easy to use
- Accommodating eye relief
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
6) Bushnell Engage 2-10x44mm Rifle Scope
Next up we have Bushnell Engage 2-10x44mm Rifle Scope. This is another multi-functional rifle scope that offers a broad 2-10x magnification range and exposed turrets to boost your speed of target acquisition.
The variable 2-10x magnification is offered in the second focal plane reticle. The reticle is compatible with a wide range of calibers and uncluttered to help you see it clearly without obstructing the target.
Optically, the scope boasts fully multi-coated optics and ultra-wideband coating that work together to deliver the best brightness and clarity. Additionally, the exterior surface of the lens is protected by an EXO barrier lens coating which repels dust, dirt, water, and oil.
Above all, the Bushnell Engage 2-10x44mm Rifle Scope is built in a 30mm tube for strength and rigidity, and it is fully waterproof and fogproof.
Features
- Second focal plane Deploy MOA reticle
- IPX-7 water resistance level
- Matte finish
- EXO barrier lens coating
- Fully multi-coated optics
- 30mm main tube
- Tool-less locking turrets
- 2-10x total magnification
Pros
- Long eye relief
- Economy price
- Easy to use
- Solid construction
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
7) Meopta Optika6 3-18x50mm Rifle Scope
Our last HFT scope recommendation is the Meopta Optika6 3-18x50mm Rifle Scope. This rifle scope has all the features you need to improve your efficiency in the range and hone your shooting skills.
With the variable 3-18x magnification, this rifle scope provides the right balance of field of view and rapid target acquisition. Thanks to the massive 50mm objective lens, the magnification is useful even at the highest 18x level. Besides, the stunning optical systems maximize light transmission and make the scope ideal for use in any light setting.
To complement the optical performance, this rifle scope has an RD illuminated reticle system. Whether you anticipate shooting in bright or low light, the reticle is well-illuminated to ensure precision aiming.
Another facet that makes the Meopta Optika6 3-18x50mm Rifle Scope the best HFT scope is rock-solid construction. It is crafted with a ruggedized aluminum chassis in a 30mm tube. Further, the scope is completely fogproof, shockproof, submersible up to 1m, and usable in temperatures ranging from -4 to 131℉.
Features
- 3-18x total magnification
- MeoShield ion-assisted lens coating
- RD illuminated reticle system
- 70 MOA adjustment range
- Aluminum housing
- Completely waterproof and fogproof
- Matte anodized finish
- 30mm tube diameter
Pros
- Generous eye relief
- Excellent build quality
- Good low-light visibility
- Great value for the price
Cons
- Water resistance to 1 m only
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How to Choose the Best HFT Scope
The following are the key things to keep in mind when shopping for the best HFT scope.
Eye Relief
Eye relief refers to the distance your eye has to be from the scope’s eyepiece during use. It is an important feature to consider especially for those who wear eyeglasses. We recommend that you get a scope with at least 3.5 inches of eye relief.
Weight
How heavy a scope weighs can make or break your HFT expeditions. Whether you are just a beginner in this field or not, it is wise to get a scope that is built lightweight but durable. Look for a model that weighs less than 2 lbs and you will find it very convenient to carry and easy to shoot with as well.
Durability
The best HFT scope is built to offer long-term durability. With so many models available out there, opt for a rifle scope that is made with durable materials. It will weather any abuse you subject it to and operate in a reliable manner. Also, ensure that you pick a scope that is fully waterproof and fogproof.
Reticle
Another important thing to keep into consideration is reticle. To hone your HFT skills, you need a scope that provides a crisp, uncluttered point of aim. Factor in your shooting habits and needs, then choose the ideal reticle for that.
Best HFT Scope FAQs
Is an illuminated reticle necessary for HFT scope?
An illuminated reticle is beneficial in a HFT scope, but it is not a must-have. If you anticipate using the scope mainly in low-level light settings, we recommend that you find a product that has an illuminated reticle.
What is a first focal plane reticle and why is it important in a HFT scope?
A first focal plane reticle is a reticle that changes in size with a change in magnification power. It is important for a HFT scope as it allows quick and precise aiming across different ranges.
Are There Specific Brands Known for Producing High-Quality HFT Scopes?
Several optics manufacturers produce scopes suitable for HFT shooting. Some popular brands include Hawke, MTC Optics, and Nikko Stirling. It’s essential to research and choose a reputable manufacturer.
Final Words
Finding the best HFT scope is easy when you know what features you need. There are plenty of models available on the market and each rifle scope we have listed above comes with all the essential features you need to hone your target shooting skills. Whichever model you end up purchasing, we are hopeful that our article has steered you in the right direction.