5 Best Scopes for 7.62×39

Outdoor Moran is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn More

Choosing the best Scope for 7.62×39 will significantly enhance the accuracy and versatility of this popular cartridge. Whether you are using this cartridge for tactical operations, hunting or target shooting the right scope can make all the difference.

With many scopes available on the market, finding the perfect one for your needs involves a balance between factors like magnification, reticle style, durability, and budget considerations.

In this guide, we’ll explore a selection of top scopes designed to maximize the potential of your 7.62x39mm rifle, helping you make an informed choice that suits your specific shooting requirements.

The 7.62×39mm cartridge is a highly regarded rimless bottlenecked cartridge known for its exceptional versatility and effectiveness. One of its key strengths its balanced performance, offering a suitable compromise between power and controllability.

The cartridge is well-regarded for its moderate recoil, making it manageable even for less experienced shooters, while still delivering adequate stopping power. This cartridge is associated with firearms,such as the Russian SKS  and the AK-47 rifle.

What is the Best Use for 7.62 x39?

The 7.62x39mm cartridge is a versatile round and can be used for hunting medium-sized game, such as deer and boar, at moderate ranges,target shooting recreational plinking, and certain matches and competitions, providing an engaging platform for marksmanship skills.

The 7.62x39mm cartridge was initially designed for military use, and it has been widely employed in military rifles like the AK-47 and its variants. It offers a good balance between stopping power and controllability, making it effective for combat scenarios.

How far Will a 7.62 x39 Shoot?

The effective range of a 7.62x39mm cartridge is about 300 to 400 yards  fired from a typical AK-47 or similar rifle

About the 7.62×39 Cartridge

7.62x39 Catridge
7.62×39 Catridge (Source:Wiki)
  • Case type: Rimless, bottleneck
  • Bullet diameter: 7.85–7.9 mm
  • Base diameter: 11.35 mm (0.447 in)
  • Rim diameter: 11.35 mm (0.447 in)
  • Land diameter: 7.62 mm (0.300 in)
  • Neck diameter: 8.60 mm (0.339 in)
  • Shoulder diameter: 10.07 mm (0.396 in)
  • Rim thickness: 1.50 mm (0.059 in)
  • Case length: 38.70 mm (1.524 in)
  • Overall length: 56.00 mm (2.205 in)
  • Case capacity: 2.31 cm3 (35.6 gr H2O)

 

The 7.62×39mm cartridge is is a rimless bottlenecked intermediate cartridge with its roots in Soviet weaponry it is also known as the 7.62 Soviet or .30 Russian Short.Its extensively used in iconic firearms such as the Russian SKS and the legendary AK-47 rifles, It also compatible with RPD and RPK light machine guns.

This cartridge served as the standard ammunition in Soviet forces until the 1970s when it was partially supplanted by the 5.45×39mm cartridge, introduced with the AK-74 rifle. The 5.45×39mm round continues its service with the modernized Russian Armed Forces’ AK-74M service rifle and the AK-12 rifle.

Today the 7.62×39mm cartridge still holds a significant role in military service, being the chambering of choice for newly developed rifles like the AK-15. Its popularity is a testament to its reliability and effectiveness in a wide range of firearms.

Best Scopes for 7.62×39

 

1) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope

Best Scope for 7.62x39

 

 

 

 

Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope is the best scope for AR15 7.62×39. It’s built to withstand rugged use. With a waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof construction. It also features an AR-BDC3 reticle that is illuminated for precise aiming under low-light conditions.

The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope features XD Lens Elements, which incorporate extra-low dispersion (XD) glass for enhanced resolution and color fidelity, resulting in clear and sharp images.

You also get a fully Multi-Coated lens for maximized light transmission, the multiple anti-reflective coatings to all air-to-glass surfaces will produce brighter and clearer images even in challenging lighting conditions.

The scope also features a Second Focal Plane Reticle, which ensures that the scale of the reticle remains ideally sized regardless of magnification settings. This is crucial for estimating range, holdover, and wind drift correction, as the listed reticle subtensions remain accurate at the highest magnification.

The reticle itself is glass etched, allowing for intricate and precise designs that are protected between two layers of glass. This not only ensures optimal durability but also guarantees reliable performance under tough conditions.

In low-light situations, the Illuminated Reticle comes into play, providing precise aiming. With a Fast Focus Eyepiece for quick and easy reticle focusing, ensuring that you can rapidly adapt to changing shooting scenarios.

Specifications

  • Tube Diameter: 30 mm
  • Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
  • Eye Relief: 3.5 in
  • Weight: 18.5 oz
  • Length: 10.5 in

Pros

  • Waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof construction
  • Extra-low dispersion (XD) glass for enhanced resolution and color fidelity
  • Quick and easy reticle focusing
  • Illuminated reticle for low light conditions
  • Aircraft Grade Aluminum Construction
  • Fully Multi-Coated Optical Coating

Cons

  • None

 

2) Primary Arms 3×32 Compact Prism Red Dot Sight

Primary Arms 3x32 Compact Prism Red Dot Sight

 

 

 

Primary Arms 3×32 Compact Prism Red Dot Sight is the best prism scope for 7.62×39, it features 11 brightness settings, aluminum construction, an Enclose emitter, ample eye relief, and a durable hard coat anodized finish.

With a ruggedized Mount, the scope offers exceptional clamping power for a secure and stable attachment to your firearm. Additionally, it includes an AR-height riser, for comfort and ergonomics.

The scope features an ACSS 5.56 CQB-M2 chevron reticle with bullet drop compensation (BDC) and ranging capabilities out to 600 yards, . This reticle is fully illuminated, ensuring excellent visibility even in bright daylight conditions.

The optic’s versatility is further enhanced with a removable M1913 Picatinny top rail, which can accommodate accessories or piggy-backed red dot sights, giving you added flexibility in your setup.

The generous 10.3mm exit pupil provides a bright and forgiving eye box, making target acquisition and tracking effortless. With a 31.5ft field of view at 100 yards, you can easily track mobile targets.

The Primary Arms 3×32 Compact Prism Red Dot Sight offers 2.7” – 3.0” of eye relief for a comfortable shooting experience. Its 1/4 MOA turret clicks are tactile and audible, allowing for easy zeroing and precise adjustments.

This tough prism scope is built to withstand the elements, as it is waterproof, fog-resistant, and shockproof, ensuring reliable performance in various weather conditions. Its durable hard coat anodized finish adds an extra layer of protection.

Moreover, this optic is compatible with standard carry handle mounts, providing even more options for mounting on your rifle. With its rugged build and advanced features, the Primary Arms 3×32 Compact Prism Red Dot Sight is an excellent choice for shooters looking for a reliable and versatile optic for a variety of applications.

Specifications

  • Eye Relief: 2.72 – 2.92 in
  • Length: 2.95 in
  • Weight: 18.4 oz
  • Magnification: 3 x
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 32 mm

Pros

  • Exceptional clamping power for a secure and stable attachment
  • AR-height riser for  comfort and ergonomics
  • ACSS 5.56 CQB-M2 chevron reticle
  • Illuminated for excellent visibility even in bright daylight conditions
  • Picatinny top rail to accommodate accessories
  • 2.7- 3.0 inches of eye relief for a comfortable shooting experience
  • Hard coat anodized finish

Cons

  • Fixed magnification

 

3) Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope

Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope

 

 

 

 

The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope is the Best Scope for 7.62×39 for close to medium-range encounters. This rifle scope features fully multi-coated optics for clear and bright images even in challenging lighting conditions, It’s equipped with a glare-reducing sunshade to further enhance image quality.

It is built to endure the rigors of the field. Its anodized aluminum construction is highly durable, and features like capped turrets, a single-piece tube, and machine-locked lenses make it resistant to scratches and damage.

This rugged scope is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum, ensuring it can withstand the demands of various shooting environments. It’s also waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof, making it suitable for use with high-caliber firearms.

The windage and elevation turrets are designed with a fast reset-to-zero function, ensuring your scope remains sighted in for longer periods. Additionally, the fast-focus eyepiece allows for quick and easy adjustments, making it effortless to keep targets sighted and in focus, even when transitioning between different ranges or shooting on the move.

Specifications

  • Tube Diameter: 1 in
  • Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
  • Eye Relief: 3.9 – 4.7 in
  • Weight: 14.3 oz
  • Length: 11.3 in

Pros

  • Fully Multi-Coated optics for enhanced light transmission
  • Rugged construction to recoil and impact
  • Lens protection with an ultra-hard and scratch-resistant coating
  • Aircraft Grade Aluminum construction
  • Anodized finish

Cons

  • Non-Illuminated

 

4) Primary Arms SLx Series 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope

Primary Arms SLx Series 1-6 x 24mm Rifle Scope

 

The Primary Arms SLx Series 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope is the best Scope for 7.62×39 for versatility and meeting the demands of different shooting scenarios in the close to medium range.

With red illumination and 11 brightness settings, this scope ensures excellent visibility in different lighting conditions, making it ideal for a wide range of shooting environments.

The Bullet Drop Compensation (BDC) is accurate at the highest magnification setting, providing precise and consistent holdover points for different ranges.

With a 1-6x total magnification range, the SLx Series scope is suitable for both close-quarters engagements and medium-range shooting.

The scope is constructed from a single piece of 6063 aluminum, which offers exceptional durability while remaining lightweight. Its hard coat anodized matte finish not only adds to its ruggedness but also minimizes glare, ensuring that you stay concealed in the field.

To maximize optical clarity, the lenses of this scope are fully multicoated. This feature reduces glare and light loss, resulting in brighter and sharper images.

Whether you’re a competitive shooter or a hunter, the Primary Arms SLx Series 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope is an excellent choice for improved accuracy and performance.

 

Specifications

  • Tube Diameter: 30 mm
  • Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
  • Eye Relief: 3.5 in
  • Weight: 16.9 oz
  • Length: 10 in

Pros

  • Fog Resistant and water-resistant
  • 6063 Aluminum construction
  • Accurate even at the highest magnification
  • Hardcoat anodized matte finish for low glare and camouflage
  • Fully multi-coated lenses for brighter imaging

Cons

  • None

5) Vortex Spitfire 1x-AR Prism Scope

Vortex Spitfire 1x-AR Prism Scope

 

The Vortex Spitfire 1x-AR Prism Scope comes packed with many impressive features, that make it one of the best Scopes for 7.62×39.

This scope boasts Fully Multi-Coated lenses, enhancing light transmission and clarity to ensure a crisp and bright sight picture.

The Prism-Based Design is both compact and robust, providing an edge in durability and reliability. With adjustable Brightness Settings, this optic allows you to adapt to different lighting conditions, ensuring optimal visibility.

The Spitfire is parallax-free, meaning you can acquire targets quickly and effortlessly.

Its Single-Piece Chassis construction is not only durable but also helps maintain accuracy and zero over time. Plus, it’s built to withstand the elements, as it’s Waterproof, Fogproof, and Shockproof, ensuring it performs reliably in various weather conditions and withstands recoil without issue.

Its Hard Anodized Finish adds an extra layer of protection and minimizes glare, making it a practical and resilient choice for shooters in the field. Whether you’re into tactical shooting or hunting, the Vortex Spitfire 1x-AR Prism Scope offers the performance and reliability you need.

Specifications

  • Length: 4.3 in
  • Weight: 11.2 oz
  • Objective Aperture: 25 mm
  • Eye Relief: 3.8 in
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 25 mm

Pros

  • Waterproof, fog proof, and Shockproof
  • Fully Multi-Coated lenses
  • Hard Anodized Finish
  • Single-Piece Chassis construction
  • Parallax-free
  • Compact and robust

Cons

  • Fixed magnification

 

Read Also: 8 Best LPVO Scopes for AR-15

 

Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Scope for 7.62×39

When choosing the best scope for 7.62×39 it is very important to consider the following.

Magnification Range: Consider the range at which you expect to engage your targets. For close to medium-range shooting, a low to moderate magnification scope of 1-6x is suitable.

Durability: Ensure your scope can withstand the recoil of your 7.62×39 rifle. Look for scopes that are shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof, as these features ensure performance in various conditions and protect against damage.

Turret Adjustments: Precise windage and elevation adjustments are essential for zeroing and making accurate shots. Choose scopes with tactile and audible turrets for easier zeroing.

Lens Coatings: Fully multi-coated lenses reduce glare, improve light transmission, and provide a clearer image. High-quality coatings are important for optical clarity.

Eye Relief: Adequate eye relief is crucial to prevent scope eye (a.k.a. scope bite) and ensure comfortable shooting.

Brand and Warranty: Consider reputable brands such asVortex Optics known for producing quality scopes, and check for a warranty that provides peace of mind in case of defects or damage.

Reticle Illumination: If you plan to shoot in low-light conditions, look for scopes with illuminated reticles for better target acquisition.

Weight and Size: Factor in the weight and size of the scope to ensure it complements your rifle and doesn’t hinder maneuverability.

Best Scope for 7.62×39 FAQs

How can I ensure the scope is durable and can withstand recoil?

Make sure the scope is shockproof and recoil-resistant and is built with high-quality materials such as aircraft-grade aluminum. Well-known brands and scopes with good warranties are often reliable choices.

Do I need an illuminated reticle for a 7.62×39 scope?

An illuminated reticle can be beneficial in low-light conditions or fast target acquisition.

How important is lens quality in a rifle scope for 7.62×39 rifles?

Lens quality is crucial. Fully multi-coated lenses are preferred as they reduce glare, improve light transmission, and provide a clearer image. High-quality lenses enhance optical clarity and your overall shooting experience.

What is the Advantage of 7.62 x39?

The 7.62x39mm cartridge has several advantages, first, it is a very versatile cartridge used for different rifles such as rifles and carbines. The cartridge has long-range accuracy compared to some other cartridges in its class. Another advantage is its stopping power which makes it effective for military, hunting, and self-defense purposes, this stopping power also contributes to its great penetration capabilities.

The ammunition is widely available, even on online marketplaces such as Opticsplanet and Brownells among others.

Some of its limitations include reduced long-range accuracy due to greater recoil compared to smaller-caliber cartridges.

Final Thoughts

The best Scope for 7.62×39 will enhance your accuracy and overall shooting experience, whether you’re using your rifle for hunting, target shooting, or tactical applications any of the scopes above will meet your needs.