In this review, we look at the best hunting scope recommendations.
To be successful in the hunting field, you need to have the right hunting gear with you. One of the most important items that you should have is the best hunting scope.
A scope will keep you in shape for the task at hand and put you in the right hunting position. Having a quality sighting tool also means that you will be able to find trophies with ease across vast hunting environments.
As a hunter, whether a beginner, a seasoned one, or anyone in between, you need to know what you are capable of before you decide which scope to get. Additionally, you need to factor in the environment you will be hunting in and how far you will be looking for the game.
Here is a summary of the best hunting scopes
| 1) ATN X-Sight 4K Pro 5-20x70mm Smart HD Day/Night Rifle Scope
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| 2) Vortex Crossfire II 4-12x44mm Rifle Scope
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| 3) NightForce SHV 4-14x50mm F1 30mm Rifle Scope
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| 4) ATN ThOR LT 3-6x50mm Thermal Rifle Scope
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| 5) Vortex Diamondback 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
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| 6) Burris Fullfield TAC30 1-4×24 30mm Rifle Scope
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| 7) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
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| 8) Bushnell AR Optics 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
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What Magnification for a Hunting Scope?
The magnification for a hunting scope depends on the type of hunting you plan to do and the distance you intend to shoot.
For short-range hunting or dense forests, a lower magnification, typically between 1x and 4x, is sufficient. This will provide a wider field of view and allow for quicker target acquisition.
For medium-range hunting or open fields, a magnification between 4x and 9x can be useful. This will allow for better target identification and precision shooting.
For long-range hunting or shooting, a higher magnification, typically above 9x, is recommended. This will allow for accurate shots at longer distances.
It’s important to note that higher magnification isn’t always better, as it can also make it harder to find and track your target, especially in low-light conditions. Therefore, it’s important to consider the type of hunting you’ll be doing and choose a magnification that suits your needs.
What Makes a Good Hunting Scope?
A good hunting scope should have versatile magnification power. This is important because it allows the shooter to see their target at a distance, making it easier to aim and shoot accurately. A high magnification power also allows the shooter to see small details on the target, such as the antlers on a deer or the fur on a fox. A magnification of at least 4x is recommended for most hunting applications, but a higher magnification may be needed for longer-range shots.
Another important feature of a good hunting scope is a clear and bright reticle. The reticle, also known as the crosshairs, is the aiming point in the scope. It should be clear and easy to see, even in low-light conditions. A bright reticle can be especially useful for hunting in the early morning or late evening when visibility is limited. Many scopes now have illuminated reticles, which allow them to be seen in any lighting conditions.
A good hunting scope should also have a durable construction and reliable adjustment system. A scope that is well-built will withstand the recoil of the firearm and be able to withstand the elements.
The adjustment system is also important, it should be easy to use and hold zero. This will ensure that the scope maintains its accuracy and remains sighted in, even after multiple shots or changes in temperature or humidity. Some scopes come with adjustment knobs that are finger-adjustable, which makes it very easy to make quick adjustments in the field.
Today, the market is flooded with versatile hunting scopes that are meant to be paired with a wide range of hunting rifles. In this post, we are going to take you through the best hunting scopes made with every avid and modern hunter in mind.
These scopes offer tons of optical power in a package that is small, lightweight, and easy to maneuver in any hunting terrain. Let’s take a look.
Best Hunting Scopes
1) ATN X-Sight 4K Pro 5-20x70mm Smart HD Day/Night Rifle Scope
First up we have the ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Edition 5-20x70mm Smart HD Day/Night Rifle Scope, the best scope for hunting at night. It is built to provide dual day and night functionality so you are able to hunt game at any time you want.
ATN built the scope with a supremely sensitive 4K ultra HD sensor to help you find targets with ease when the sun sets. The 60Hz refresh rate updates the views quickly for you to identify the target quickly. Besides, you get multiple reticles to choose from and customize your hunting trips.
The scope is built to be operable in different hunting seasons. It has an operating temperature of between -20 to 120℉/ -28 to 48°C. Moreover, the main tube is water resistant and fog proof to be usable even in harsh environments.
Another outstanding feature of the scope is the 30mm main tube design that makes it look like a traditional day scope. The main tube size provides more room for adjustments while being easy to mount with standard 30mm rings.
This day-and-night rifle scope has a smart rangefinder to eliminate the guesswork when it comes to determining how far your subjects are. It is also built with a ballistic calculator to ensure that you hunt responsibly and a dual-core processor which you use to record and stream videos at the same time.
Features
- 30mm tube diameter
- Smart range finder
- One Shot Zero
- Recoil activated video
- Ultra-high definition 4K sensor
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
- Water, fog, and shockproof construction
Pros
- Streamline and sturdy design
- Ultra-low power consumption
- Good eye relief
- Clear and crisp image
Cons
- Has some rubber latex which may be allergic to some people
2) Vortex Crossfire II 4-12x44mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Crossfire II 4-12x44mm Rifle Scope is the best hunting scope for beginners and budget buyers. It is built with ease of use in mind and tons of quality features to get you on target quickly.
Since not every hunt takes place on sunny days, the scope is built to be operable in all weather conditions. It is fully waterproof to prevent moisture and dust from entering the optics. Additionally, it has nitrogen gas purging to prevent internal fogging across a wide range of temperatures.
Construction-wise, the scope is made to offer unrivaled durability. It has a 1-inch diameter tube constructed from a solid block of aircraft-grade aluminum. With this rugged construction, the scope withstands impact and recoil from heavy calibers. It also boasts a hard anodized finish that provides low-glare properties and shields the scope from scratches.
For added convenience, the scope features capped reset turrets that allow quick re-indexing of the turret with no tools needed. The scope is also built with a fast-focus eyepiece for quick target acquisition and fully multi-coated lenses that allow you to shoot precisely in the low light setting of dawn and dusk.
Features
- Single-piece 1-inch main tube
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Second focal plane reticle
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Capped reset turrets
- Hard anodized finish
- Fast focus eyepiece
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Long eye relief
- Clear glass
- High build quality
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
3) NightForce SHV 4-14x50mm F1 30mm Rifle Scope
To fine-tune your accuracy in the hunting field and take your hunting skills a notch higher, you need a premium quality sighting tool like the NightForce SHV 4-14x50mm F1 Rifle Scope. It harbors virtually all the features that you need for every hunting adventure.
The controls in this rifle scope make adjustments intuitive and precise. This way, you are able to place an accurate shot hurriedly after locating the prey. Furthermore, the scope features a ZeroSet function that lets you get back to your zero settings quickly and with ease, even after multiple changes.
With the variable 4-14x magnification range, the scope is ideal for hunting game at varying ranges as well as different hunting fields. It provides a wide field of view at every magnification and bright sight pictures from dawn till dusk.
Moreover, the scope has an illuminated reticle which provides a clear point of aim in all light settings. The parallax is adjustable from 25 yards to infinity and the fast-focus eyepiece makes reticle focusing a quick and simple task.
Features
- Robust aluminum construction
- First focal plane reticle
- Adjustable parallax
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Power zoom ring
- ZeroSet function
- 30mm main tube diameter
Pros
- Outstanding image clarity
- Illuminated reticle
- Perfect tracking
Cons
- Quite expensive
4) ATN ThOR LT 3-6x50mm Thermal Rifle Scope
ATN prides itself in making high-quality thermal rifle scopes and the ThOR LT 3-6x50mm Thermal Rifle Scope the best thermal hunting scope is not any different. Getting this product for hunting will sharpen your skills and turn your next hunting trip into a success.
The 1280x720p HD display reveals every detail of the game even when they are hiding behind bushes. Complementing this display is a 60Hz refresh rate that provides a crisp clear view of the scene and is critical for glassing mobile targets.
Another facet that makes the thermal scope stand out is the lightweight design of 1.4 lbs. It is easy to maneuver in the field, even when you are carrying other hunter gear. Another benefit that comes with having such a light optic is multi-platform compatibility. You will be able to place it on crossbows, air rifles, and any other weapon that is not able to handle a heavy optic.
More importantly, this thermal scope is built to offer long-term durability. It has a hardened aluminum alloy construction that is prepared to withstand harsh weather conditions and the severe recoil that firearms generate.
Features
- Multiple reticle patterns
- Black hot/ white hot viewing modes
- One shot zero
- Recoil and weather resistant
- ATN Obsidian Core LT
- 3D accelerometer
- 60Hz refresh rate
- 30mm tube diameter
Pros
- Lightweight and durable
- Great battery life
- Multi-platform friendly
Cons
- Expensive
5) Vortex Diamondback 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
Vortex is a renowned brand in the field of optics. It makes top-tier and versatile rifle scopes and the Diamondback 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope cements this reputation of being one of the best scopes for deer hunting. The scope has a variable 3-9x zoom power which makes it a popular choice for all-round hunting.
Featuring fully multi-coated optics, the scope increases light transmission in low-light settings. It also reduces glare and internal reflection to yield ultra-bright and crisp clear-sight pictures from when the sun rises to when it sets.
With a weight of 14.5oz, the scope is lightweight and very easy to carry when you have to go farther into unfamiliar trail-less terrains looking for game. Construction-wise, it has a weatherproof 1-inch main tube that is crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum. It is shockproof to tackle the beating and anodized to be rust-proof and scratch-proof.
Other essential features included are a fast-focus eyepiece, capped reset turrets, and a precision-glide erector system.
Features
- Aircraft-grade aluminum housing
- Water, fog, and shockproof
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Hard anodized finish
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Second focal plane reticle
- Capped reset turrets
Pros
- Good reticle
- Crisp clear glass
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Solid build quality
Cons
- Non-illuminated
6) Burris Fullfield TAC30 1-4×24 30mm Rifle Scope
Built with a variable 1-4x magnification power, the Burris Fullfield TAC30 is the best hunting scope at close and medium ranges. It provides a wide field of view that every hunter needs for rapid target finding, and long eye relief for comfortable glassing.
The reticle in this rifle scope is put on the second focal plane. It is illuminated to give you a precise point of aim when you are hunting in different lighting conditions. Besides, the optics have a Hi-Lume multi-coating that eliminates glare and aids in low-light performance.
For all-weather reliability, the scope’s tubes are filled with nitrogen to drive out moisture and prevent internal fogging. Furthermore, it boasts a durable, solid 1-piece outer tube that stands up against shock, recoil, and vibrations. The double internal spring system included ensures that the scope is able to hold zero no matter the recoil or punishment that you subject it to.
Features
- Hi-Lume multi-coated lenses
- Nitrogen filled tubes
- Solid 1-piece tube
- Fast action Ballistic CQ reticle
- Waterproof and shockproof
- 30mm main tube
Pros
- Illuminated reticle
- Durable and reliable construction
- Wide field of view
- Crisp clear optics
Cons
- Not fog proof
7) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
Next up, we have the Viper PST Gen II 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope the best hunting scope for AR 15. This highly functional, user-friendly, and detailed rifle scope has every feature that you need to turn your hunts into a success.
It has a variable 1-6x magnification power for pursuing game across vast ranges. The 30mm main tube diameter provides maximized internal adjustment and strength, while the illuminated reticle provides a precise point of aim in low light conditions.
Constructed from a solid block of aircraft-quality aluminum, the scope provides unmatched durability and sturdiness. The single-piece tube maximizes alignment for improved accuracy and it is shockproof to withstand recoil and impacts.
Further, the scope is O-ring sealed and purged with argon gas to be fully waterproof and fog proof. It also boasts a fast-focus eyepiece that allows quick and simple reticle focusing, and XR fully multi-coated lenses to increase the image brightness and sharpness.
Features
- XD lens elements
- Precision-glide erector system
- Armortek lens coatings
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- Hard anodized finish
- Second focal plane reticle
Pros
- Illuminated reticle
- Long eye relief
- Quality glass
Cons
- Not ideal for long-range
8) Bushnell AR Optics 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
The Bushnell AR Optics 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope is built to enhance your accuracy and target acquisition speed when hunting. It provides a wide field of view at every zoom power and crisp clear target views even at the highest magnification.
This AR15 riflescope features fully multi-coated optics to boost light transmission and create bright and vivid sight pictures. The two Throw Down Power Change Levers included making magnification adjustments quick and very simple, while the illuminated reticle provides a precise point of aim even in low light settings.
The scope has a 30mm main tube that is waterproof and fog proof for use in any environment. It also has durable housing to handle rigorous use and capped turrets to prevent accidental adjustment in the field.
Features
- Second focal plane reticle
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- 30mm main tube
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Capped turrets
Pros
- Generous eye relief
- Lightweight and durable
- Easy to use
- Illuminated reticle
Cons
- Fixed parallax
Related
- 6 Best Leupold Scopes for Deer Hunting
- 10 Best Vortex Scopes for Deer Hunting
- 7 Best AR 15 Deer Hunting Scopes
- 7 Best Thermal Scopes for Hog Hunting
Choosing the Best Hunting Scope
Explained below are the important factors you should consider before buying a hunting scope.
Magnification
Hunting scopes have different magnification power suitable for hunting game at varying ranges. Go for a low-powered scope if you will be hunting at close and medium ranges only. Conversely, you will need a high-powered scope for long-range hunting.
Reticle
A reticle is the heart of every rifle scope. Look for a scope whose reticle is easy to use and designed to provide an accurate point of aim across vast ranges. For hunting, it is also best to get an illuminated reticle. Illumination increases the contrast between the reticle and the target when you are hunting in less-than-ideal lighting conditions.
Build Quality
The build quality of a Riflescope determines how long it will last and how reliable it will be. Get a scope that has a durable construction to tackle rigorous use. The best hunting scope should be shockproof to withstand heavy recoil and fully weatherproof for use in any environment.
Weight
Lastly, consider the weight. Generally, hunting involves moving from one point to the other looking for game. This movement calls for a light scope that is easy to maneuver. A lightweight hunting scope will also scatter recoil from heavy calibers in a more effective manner than the heavy counterparts.
Conclusion
The best hunting scope is one that meets your hunting needs depending on your skill levels. When making your selection, compare the features that each hunting scope has and choose one that suits your hunting needs and habits. No matter the model that you end up selecting, it is our hope that this article has steered you in the right direction.
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