9 Best High End Rifle Scopes

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What are the Best high end Rifle Scopes? Read on to discover.

Any hunter or shooting enthusiast knows how useful and fun it is to shoot and hit the target. Choosing the ideal scope for your rifle is one major factor that determines how accurate one will be able to shot at any target.

High-end rifle scopes are the ideal scopes for shooters interested in long-range and ultra-long-range shooting. The best High end rifle scopes are expensive so, it is important that any buyer knows how to maximize value in their purchase.

Different brands manufacture premium scopes, however, there’s always a brand that offers them at a better price. Take time analyzing the different types of scopes available before concluding on which one to buy. To help you in your decision making, below is a list of some of the best high end scopes you will find on the market.

 

High-End Rifle Scope Image                      Best Price
1) Schmidt & Bender PM II High Power 5-45×56 Schmidt & Bender PM II High Power 5-45x56  
2) Vortex Razor HD Gen II First Focal Plane ( / ) Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II First Focal Plane (3-18x50 / 4.5-27x56 )  
3) Vortex Viper PST Gen I First Focal Plane (,) Vortex Viper PST Gen I First Focal Plane (4-16x50,6-24x50)  
4) Burris Eliminator 4-16x50mm Burris Eliminator 4-16x50mm  
5) Nightforce 5.5-22×56 NXS Riflescope Nightforce 5.5-22x56 NXS Riflescope  
6) Leupold Mark 8 CQBSS 1.1-8x24mm Riflescope Leupold Mark 8 CQBSS 1.1-8x24mm Riflescope  
7) SWAROVSKI Z5 3.5-18×44 Ballistic Turret Riflescope with 4W Reticle SWAROVSKI Z5 3.5-18x44 Ballistic Turret Riflescope with 4W Reticle
8) Schmidt and Bender Zenith 3-12×50 Schmidt and Bender Zenith Review  
9) Schmidt and Bender PM II 5-25×56 Schmidt and Bender PM II 5-25×56  

 

 

Before we get down to the best High End Rifle Scopes, let’s answer some important questions to help us dive deeper knowledge-wise on Rifle scopes.

What is the best brand of rifle scopes?

The market has many brands and each has specific scopes that top-selling, To answer this question effectively we need to look at the different brands available and point out their best scopes. That way we will have done justice to this question.

  • Vortex- Vortex scopes are known for precision, long-range shooting, hunting, and tactical applications. The scopes are designed to give the best performance even in the most extreme environmental conditions
  • ZEISS –These ZEISS riflescopes are not only high end and unique but great performers. The scopes are used for a wide range of hunting and shooting applications. The scopes have great features for that unexpected performance. One of the best Zeiss Scope is the Zeiss Conquest HD5 3-15x50mm Riflescope.
  • Weaver– These scopes are made for next-level hunting, they accommodate every style of hunting, are consistent, rugged and technologically advanced to perform even in severe environments. One of the best Weaver scopes is the Weaver Classic V-Series Riflescope.
  • Simmons– These scopes are rugged and rich in performance features, they deliver stunning performance. Get unmatched reliability with the Simmons high-end scopes. The Simmons Truplex Prohunter Riflescope is one of the best.
  • Swarovski– SWAROVSKI OPTIK rifle scopes offer great reliability and adaptability even in the wildest areas. They are used for hunting, target shooting and long-range hunting.  Swarovski Z6i 3-18x50mm Illuminated Riflescopes
  • Barska–  Barska has over 20 years been on the forefront in the production of top-quality rifle scopes, the scopes are used by hunters and precision target shooters. The Barska 1-4×28 IR Hunting Scope is one of the best on the market.
  • Burris -There are many reasons why you should choose Burris Rifle scopes, Some of the reasons are Ultimate magnification, Lightweight design, clarity, technological improvements, and finally precision. One of the best Burris Rifle Scopes is the Burris 4.5 x-14 x -42mm Fullfield II Ballistic Plex Riflescope.
  • Bushnell– as one of the best rifle scope brands Bushnell offers a wide range of benefits on its scopes and sights.  Great magnification, clear vision, parallax adjustment, and additional sunshade among other features. This Bushnell Trophy XLT Multi-X Reticle Riflescope is one of the best.
  • Leupold– Every Leupold riflescope is weatherproof and built to offer a lifetime performance with consistency and reliability. The Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm Riflescope is one of the best high-end Leupold rifle scopes.
  • Maven– Maven Rifle scopes are made for precison, durability, reliability, and ability to withstand use and abuse even in the harshest climates and conditions. The Maven RS.1 2.5-15 x 44 mm Hunting Rifle Scope is one of the best high-end rifle scopes.
  • Redfield- Redfield rifle scopes are known for a wide range of features. The scopes are known for generous levels of eye relief,  top quality, precision, and reliability. One of the best Redfield Rifle scopes is the Redfield Revolution 3-9x40mm Riflescope
  • Nikon-Bright. Clear. Precise and Rugged. Simplified list of what you get with Nikon Riflescopes.  One of the best Nikon Rifle scope is the Nikon Buckmasters II 3-9×40 BDC.
  • Meopta- Meopta riflescopes are known for their incredible precision and quality. The Meopta Optics MEOSTAR 3-12x56e is one of the best high-end rifle scopes on the market.
  • NightForce– NightForce rifle scopes deliver great clarity, detailed identification, and great performance even in extreme ranges. One of the best Nightforce scopes is the Nightforce Optics 5-20×56 SHV Riflescope.
  • Schmidt and Bender

Quick Guide for the Best High End Rifle Scopes

Best High End Thermal Rifle Scopes

 

Best High End Tactical Rifle Scopes

 

Best High End Air Rifle Scopes

 

Benefits of Using the Best High End Rifle Scopes

Getting a High end Rifle Scope comes with a wide range of benefits. Let’s look at some great reasons why you should get a High-end Rifle scope.

 Long Range Shooting

The best High end rifle scopes are known for long-range shooting, this cope shape your shooting experience making you a pro. Long-range shooting eliminates the risk of being too close to the target especially in tactical missions, hunting, and coyote shooting. Long-range shooting gives you the confidence and calmness to shoot as you want without thinking that you are too close to your target. You also get time to look at your target for that comfortable and perfect shot.

Precision and Accuracy

The reason it’s a high end rifle scope is because it has all the best qualities you can get on the market for a rifle scope. With the best high end rifle scopes, you get the best accuracy and precision levels. High end scopes make sure you hit your targe with a single shot or just a few in rare cases. With improved accuracy you get increased shots, reduce time-wasting and use fewe bullets for your task.

Better Results on the Scoreboard

If you are a target shooting enthusiast getting one of the best high end rifle scopes is a great way to improve your results on the score board. The scope will ensure you are at the top of your game and make target shooting more fun. Your self esteem is boosted when shooting.

 

Best High End Rifle Scopes

 

  1. Nightforce Optics NXS 5.5-22×56

Nightforce Optics 5.5-22x56 NXS Riflescope

 

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The Nightforce Optics NXS 5.5-22×56 as one of the best High end Rifle Scopes is the most advanced field tactical scope you can find on the market today.

At the longest range, the wide magnification factor of this scope allows precision accuracy and the same magnification power remains highly effective for shots at close ranges. One outstanding feature about this scope is the ability to withstand any harsh, brutal and punishing abuse. It is the ultimate premium quality long range hunting rifle scope.

Features

  • Composes of 6061-T6 aircraft grade aluminum which ensures strength and shockproof performance.
  • Rigorously tested for performance.
  • Speed and accuracy in all situations.
  • 100 MOA of internal adjustments.
  • Wide magnification power range, glass etched reticles, high-speed MOA turrets.
  • 56mm objective lens provides maximum clarity and resolution across the entire magnification range.

 

  1. Nightforce SHV5-20×56

Nightforce Optics 5-20x56 SHV Riflescope

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This is one of the best high end rifle scopes you can find under $2000. Hunters adore this scope because it features a wide range of variable power, a large objective lens, and a glass etched reticle. The SHV Second Plane Riflescope with MOAR reticle provides perfect clarity, color contrast and crispness from minimum to maximum range. Standard zero set enables a rapid return to your chosen zero even after several elevation adjustments. It is the best scope for big game hunting, varmint hunting and tactical use.

Features

  • Second plane rifle scope with MOAR reticle.
  • Standard ZeroSet.
  • Illuminated MOAR reticle.
  • Glass etched reticle, large objective lens and wide range of variable power.
  • Eye relief: 3.15-3.54inches.
  • Shock proof and waterproof.

 

 

  1. Burris Eliminator III 4-16×50

Burris 200116 Eliminator 4-16 x 50 x 96 Scope, Black

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As one of the best Hih end Rifle Scopes on the market ,this Burris 200116 Eliminator 4-16 x 50 x 96 Scope, Black  is the most innovative and effective hunting scope on the market today. No other rifle scope combines the level of technology, precision, effectiveness, speed and quality like that of the Burris Eliminator III 4-16×50.

This scope will extend the range and accuracy of your favorite rifle on your next hunting or shooting trip. Its precise laserscope illuminates the ideal holdover and determines the distance to the target. The state of the art optics enables any shooter to easily shoot up or down steep hills.

Features

  • Built in inclinometer enhances accuracy in various conditions, including shooting up and down steep hills.
  • Laserscope to increase accuracy by extending the range and accuracy of your rifle.
  • 1200+yards ranging capability.
  • Eye relief: 3.1-3.8 inches.
  • 100% waterproof and shock proof.
  • 1 inch tube diameter made of high quality materials.
  • Magnification: 4-16x
  • Fully multicoated optics for crystal clear bright images from dawn till dusk

 

 

  1. SWAROVSKI Optic Z5 3.5-18×44 P

SWAROVSKI Z5 3.5-18x44 Ballistic Turret Riflescope with 4W Reticle

 

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The high quality features of this scope are worth its price. This scope is lighter than other scopes in this power range with a 1” tube. Its generous power range and side focus system allows the user to adjust the scope settings to various hunting conditions.

A combination of high magnification and a large field of view makes this scope ideal for different types of hunting. This scope offers the versatility for different applications from hunting in rough terrains and steep hills, to extremely long range shooting in open fields. Built to last, this high end rifle scope comes with a limited lifetime warranty from Swarovski.

Features

  • 100% waterproof up to a depth of 4 meters.
  • Durable design with mechanical adjustments.
  • HD-Optics feature fluoride-containing lenses that virtually eliminate color aberrations.
  • Classic 4W reticle with vertical harsh marks placed in 2 MOA increments.
  • Fully multicoated optics for crystal clear bright images from dawn till dusk.
  • 100 yards field of view.
  • Magnification: 3.5-18x. Eye relief/ Exit Pupil: 95m/10- 2.4 mm
  • Black matte finish.
  • Light, handy and reliable rifle scope.

 

 

 

  1. Leupold VX-6HD 4-24X52

Leupold VX-6HD 4-24x52mm Riflescope

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This Leupold VX-6HD 4-24X52  as one of the best High End Rifle Scopes offers relentless performance with a magnification power for any situation and its 34mm main tube which gives you adequate travel to take advantage of that extra power.

It has an in-scope electronic reticle which provides a wide zoom range, CDS-ZL2 Zero Lock elevation dial, and a removable throw lever make this scope versatile.

The extraordinary combination of features, durability and its rugged performance makes the VX-6HD the most versatile Leupold riflescope ever made. It is built to withstand anything and everything that is thrown at it.

Features

  • completely waterproof, shockproof and fog proof.
  • Illuminated reticle, suitable for low light conditions and an in-scope electronic level which enhances long range accuracy.
  • Illuminated Varmint hunter CDS reticle and Matte finish.
  • Alumina flip back lens cover and optional magnification throw level.
  • Guard-ion hydrophobic lens coating- extremely sturdy, scratch proof and sheds water, dirt and fingerprints.
  • Designed, machined, and assembled in the US

 

 

 

  1. Maven RS. 1 2.5-15X44

Maven RS.1 2.5-15 x 44 mm Hunting Rifle Scope SHR Reticle FFP

 

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As one of the best High end Rifle scopes, this Maven Scope is solid, well made hunting and target shooting scope is worth its cost. It is easy to use, has a well-constructed design and highly accurate. It features a 30mm tube which provides a whooping100 MOA in elevation and 70 MOA in windage travel. The reticle is in the FFP, therefore you can use the hash marks at any magnification. This scope is built to last. It is durable, weatherproof and drops proof to withstand any harsh environment any hunter can be subjected to.

Features

  • 44mm objective lens with adequate eye relief.
  • ED glass for true color rendering and maximum light transmission.
  • Generous 2.5-15x zoom and a FFP reticle which means accurate holdovers at any magnification power.
  • Broad magnification range, high-level optical performance, and a protective objective lens filter.
  • Built-in single-piece aluminum tubes with precision machined adjustments.
  • Shipping weight: 2.62 pounds.

 

 

  1. Swarovski Optik Z6i 3-18×50 P

 

Swarovski Z6i 3-18x50mm Illuminated Riflescopes

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Built with precision, this long range and low light specs rifle scope provides crystal clear images of your target. This scope is best suited for big game hunting, target shooting as well as varmint hunting. The lenses of this scope have SwaroClean coatings that make it easy to clean away dust and grime and make the lenses scratch proof.

The illuminated reticle enhances accuracy in low light conditions and has a third turret side focus for parallax adjustment. Even though the cost of this scope is practically above most hunter’s budgets, there is nothing that this scope doesn’t have, therefore it is worth its cost.

Features

  • 100% waterproof up to approximately 13ft deep.
  • Ballistic turrets for an extra three zones preset for known distances.
  • 30mm tube body for sturdier construction and robust build.
  • Illuminated ballistic reticle for windage holdover points from any distance.
  • 3-18x variable zoom power for versatile hunting conditions.
  • HD fully multi coated lenses for crystal clear bright images from dawn till dusk.
  • Black matte finish.
  • Eye relief: 95mm. Field of view: 100 yards.

 

 

High End Riflescope Terminologies

Objective Lens – This is a lens that is kept in place by the objective lens bell.  Its aimed outward and is usually larger than the ocular which is used to view the target. The Objective lens’s main work is to control the amount of light coming through the scope.

Tube-This is the main body in a rifle scope, its purpose is the transmission of light to the viewer.

Eyepiece– The eyepiece holds the ocular lens

Dials and Turrets– the two are used to facilitate windage adjustment and elevation.

Eye Relief–  is the distance from which the image is visible.

Field of View-This is measured at a standard of 100 yards, a larger field of view is preferred and is what you get from the best high end rifle scopes.

How to Properly Care For Your High End Rifle Scope

Proper care of your High end Rifle Scope or any other scope is very important to eliminate unnecessary costs and dissapoints while you are out there in the field. It’s important to keep a frequent routine to take care of your Riflescope, You can do it weekly or on a monthly basis.

Here are the best Tips :

Clean your Scope Regularly

Regular cleaning of your riflescope is one of the best ways to maintain and increase the life of your rifle scope. Cleaning ensures that you get rid of pollen, dust, water residues and other particles that get into the rifle scope while you are out there in the field. To clean use a small brush.

Ensure the Rifle Scope is Safe and Secure

Here we are going to put emphasis on keeping the rifle scope safe both while on use and when not. While using the scope always make sure that the rings are well tightened to avoid breaking scope, doing this ensures that the scope will not be damaged even if the rifle dropped.

Storage

Make sure that you wrap your scope using plastic while storing the scope. Never store your scope in the open air or wrapped in fabrics. Make sure the scope is dry when you are storing it.

Hold the rifle strongly while hunting and place it in a padded bag while transporting your rifle scope

 

In Summary, Here are the Dos and Donts

Dos

  • Regularly wipe the scope
  • Stay away of the nature and surroundings of the riflescope
  • Always use a plastic cover

Don’ts

  • Never use paper when cleaning
  • Never transport your rifle scope without a padded bag
  • Never put your scope on a log while hunting

Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best High End Rifle Scopes

Choosing the best high end rifle scopes is not an easy task and many variables have to been taken into consideration. A scope can make or break your shot and high end scopes are quite costly, therefore it is important for anyone out there searching for the ideal scope for his/her rifle to choose the most suitable one for his/her needs. We outlined for you some of the most important factors to look out for when choosing a high end scope. Make sure that you look out for the best when it comes to:

  1. Objective lens

The purpose of the objective lens is to gather light which forms the image you see when you look through the scope. The size of the objective lens in any scope matters. The bigger the better as it gathers more light which forms the image you see through the scope. With more light gathered, you get a larger field of view. A larger objective lens also helps when facing low light conditions by providing you with better low light performance.

  1. Size of the tube

30mm tubes are found on some of the high end scopes. The extra 4mm of tube diameter over and above the standard 26mm scope tubes enables these scopes to be built more rigidly and fit larger internal lenses. Larger internal lenses enhance light transmission, and ultimately image quality.

  1. Weatherproof

High end rifle scopes are not cheap. Ensure that the scope you choose is capable of handling the rough terrain and recoil from your firearm as well as your style of hunting or shooting. It should be in a position to withstand any impact or shock. Nitrogen purging is found in rifle scopes of this price range. It provides fog proof benefits against condensation and temperature changes. Watertight scopes with O-rings seals guarantees that the internal systems are kept dry even in wet weather conditions.

  1. Quality warranties

Make sure that the scope you opt to buy has the assurance that the high end rifle scope is fully covered for any unforeseen damage. You will be spending a lot of money on this scopes therefore a quality warranty is worth the price.

  1. Eye relief

Eye relief is the distance you hold your scope from your eye when shooting. It is important to have a riflescope with adequate eye relief, because hitting yourself when you shoot can cause serious eye damage. Without an adequate eye relief, your scope will let you know what a real black eye is. Find a scope that has a generous eye relief of at least 3inches.

FAQS

  • Which is the best, fixed or variable zoom scope?

The answer to which zoom scope is the best really depends on a person taste and preference. If the shooting activity you intend to engage in involves shooting at a constant distance all the time, a fixed zoom scope will be ideal. On the other hand, if you are going to be shooting at different distances, a variable zoom scope will be better. Fixed zoom scope is ideal for shooting long range which most high end riflescopes do.

  • What kind of magnification should I use?

This depends on the shooting activity you are engaged in. If shooting at moving targets or at short range, you should use low magnification. Game hunting and mid-range target shooting requires medium level magnification while long rage shooting requires high magnification

  • What is windage and elevation?

You might want to change your aiming point by shifting it. Windage is the adjustment that lets you shift your aiming point horizontally while elevation enables you to move the aiming point up and down.

  • What is parallax?

Parallax occurs when viewing distant targets and the reticle appears to shift or move. Adjustable objectives or side focus adjustment knobs enable the shooter to eliminate parallax by dialing in on the distance of the target.

  • What maintenance is required on high end rifle scopes?

None. No lubricants or solvents are needed to preserve mechanical function. Just take good care of the scope and store it as recommended when you aren’t using it.

Conclusion

The best High end rifle scopes are quite expensive. While well-known rifle scopes brands have an upper hand in this arena because of their reputation, there is always that manufacturer that can offer it at a competitive price.

Take your time and compare the different scopes available and make sure that you maximize value in your purchase.