Best Rifle Scopes of 2025

Paul Tilton Avatar
Paul Tilton
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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Rifle scopes are an essential accessory for hunters, target shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts who want to enhance their accuracy and precision. These devices are designed to magnify the image of the target and provide a clearer view of the intended shot. They come in a range of magnification levels, objective lens sizes, and reticle styles to suit different shooting requirements. Some of the top brands in the market include Vortex, Leupold, and Nikon, which offer high-quality and durable rifle scopes for different budgets. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned shooter, a rifle scope can help you improve your aim and make your shooting experience more enjoyable.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Vortex Optics Crossfire II Riflescope Cover #TOP 1
Vortex Optics Crossfire II Riflescope
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Sig Sauer Tango MSR LPVO 1-6x24mm Scope Cover #TOP 2
Sig Sauer Tango MSR LPVO 1-6x24mm Scope
ftb score rating icon 9.8
AGM Global Vision RattlerV2 Thermal Scope Cover #TOP 3
AGM Global Vision RattlerV2 Thermal Scope
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Rifle Scopes

Vortex Optics Crossfire II Riflescope

CF2-31007
Black
3-9x40
Vortex Optics Crossfire II Riflescope Cover
Vortex Optics Crossfire II Dead Hold BDC Reticle Riflescope, 3-9x40, Black (CF2-31007)

The Vortex Optics Crossfire II Riflescope features a Dead-Hold BDC reticle for hunting or shooting at varying ranges, with long eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box for quick and easy target acquisition. The fast focus eyepiece provides easy reticle focusing, and the fully multi-coated lenses offer bright and clear views. The aircraft-grade aluminum construction ensures strength and shockproof performance, while the waterproof and fogproof design allows for use in all weather conditions.

What We Like
Clear glass quality
Crisp reticle
Accurate adjustments
Excellent customer service
No-fault warranty
What We Don't Like
Windage adjustments could be crisper

Sig Sauer Tango MSR LPVO 1-6x24mm Scope

SOT61000
Black
Sig Sauer Tango MSR LPVO 1-6x24mm Scope Cover
SIG SAUER Tango-MSR LPVO 1-6X24mm Waterproof Fog-Proof Rugged Tactical Hunting Rifle Scope | Second Focal Plane/F2 | Illuminated MSR BDC-6 Reticle, Black

The Sig Sauer Tango MSR LPVO 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope features a 30mm tube, 24mm objective lens diameter, 1-6x magnification, and an MSR BDC6 reticle. It has a field of view ranging from 19.6 - 124.8 ft at 100 yds and is water-resistant up to IPX-7. This scope is perfect for rifle enthusiasts looking for a high-quality scope with clear optics, versatile magnification, and a durable build.

What We Like
Great value for the price
Clear and bright glass
Sturdy construction
Includes quality mounting kit
Lifetime transferable warranty
What We Don't Like
Some distortion at 1X
Weight may be an issue
#TOP 3

AGM Global Vision RattlerV2 Thermal Scope

Rattler V2 TS19-256
Black
AGM Global Vision RattlerV2 Thermal Scope Cover
AGM Global Vision RattlerV2 19-256 Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope |Thermal Scope with 950 Yards Detection Range and 2.5X Base Magnification, Thermal Vision riflescope Ideal for Hunting

The AGM RattlerV2 Thermal Scope is designed for serious hunters seeking precision. Its upgraded body design houses a 19mm Germanium lens, which enhances your ability to spot targets in low-light conditions. With a thermal sensor resolution of 256x192, you can expect clear images even in challenging environments. The 2.5x base magnification allows for quick target acquisition, while the 2.5x-20x digital zoom provides versatility for various hunting scenarios, ensuring you never miss a shot. This scope is ideal for those who want to elevate their hunting experience.

What We Like
Excellent value for the price
Clear image at various distances
Intuitive controls and settings
Includes two rechargeable batteries
Good warranty and support
What We Don't Like
Digital zoom can distort image
Buttons require some adjustment

CVLIFE Hunting Rifle Scope

US0002
black
20mm
CVLIFE Hunting Rifle Scope Cover
CVLIFE Hunting Rifle Scope 6-24x50 AOE Red and Green Illuminated Gun Scope with Free Mount

This rifle scope offers 6-24x magnification, a 50mm objective diameter, a 28 ft field of view @ 100 yards, and 1/8 inch click value @ 100 yards. It also features both red and green illuminated reticles. This scope is perfect for hunting and shooting at long distances.

What We Like
Excellent image brightness
Clear optics and reticle
Very affordable price
Solid construction
Easy to adjust
What We Don't Like
Hash marks could be finer
Not ideal for high-recoil rifles

Sig Sauer BUCKMASTERS Scope- 3-12x44MM BDC

SOBM43001
One Size
Sig Sauer BUCKMASTERS Scope- 3-12x44MM BDC Cover
SIG SAUER Buckmasters 3-12x44mm 1" Tube Second Focal Plane/SFP/F2 Durable Shockproof Waterproof Fogproof Black Riflescope, Buckmasters BDC Reticle, Flip-Back Lens Covers Included

The Sig Sauer BUCKMASTERS Scope- 3-12x44MM BDC is a compact and lightweight rifle scope that is perfect for hunting. It features a fully multi-coated optical system for increased light transmission, generous and consistent eye relief, and is waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof. With a variety of magnification and reticle options available, this scope is perfect for high-power, mid to long-range tactical engagements and game hunting.

What We Like
Clear and bright optics
Easy to adjust
Holds zero well
Great value for money
Accurate click adjustments
What We Don't Like
No decal sticker included

Sig Sauer Buckmasters Riflescope 3-9X50mm

SOBM33002
black
9x50mm
Sig Sauer Buckmasters Riflescope 3-9X50mm Cover
SIG SAUER Buckmasters 3-9x50mm 1" Tube Second Focal Plane/SFP/F2 Durable Shockproof Waterproof Fogproof Black Riflescope, Buckmasters BDC Reticle, Flip-Back Lens Covers Included

The Sig Sauer Scope is designed for hunters, offering various magnification options for flexibility. It features a Buckmasters BDC Reticle with holdover dots up to 500 yards, enhancing accuracy. The durable one-piece construction and integrated throw lever allow quick magnification changes. With waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof capabilities, this scope ensures reliable performance in any weather condition, accompanied by a 3-9X50mm magnification for clear targeting.

What We Like
Excellent clarity
Holds zero well
Great value for money
Easy to sight in
Durable construction
What We Don't Like
Limited magnification options
#TOP 7

Vortex Optics Sonora 4-12x44 Riflescope

SON-412
Black
Vortex Optics Sonora 4-12x44 Riflescope Cover
Vortex Optics Sonora 4-12x44 Second Focal Plane Riflescope - Dead-Hold BDC Reticle | Shockproof, Waterproof, Fogproof, Aircraft Grade Aluminum | Unlimited, Unconditional Warranty

The Vortex Optics Sonora 4-12x44 Riflescope is a versatile tool for hunting and shooting at varying ranges. The single piece, 1-inch aluminum tube can be adjusted for a wide variety of shooting applications. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle is useful for estimating hold-over. The fully multi-coated lenses increase light transmission and the locking diopter eyepiece allows the shooter to set and lock the eyepiece setting. The riflescope is water and fogproof and has a low-glare matte surface to help camouflage the shooter's position.

What We Like
Affordable price
Clear optics
Reliable adjustments
Lifetime warranty
Great for various applications
What We Don't Like
Mounting hardware not included

Bushnell Legend 3-9x40mm Illuminated Riflescope

BL3940BS9
Black
Bushnell Legend 3-9x40mm Illuminated Riflescope Cover
Bushnell Legend 3-9x40mm Illuminated Riflescope, Hunting Rifle Scope with Illuminated Multi-X Reticle

The Bushnell Legend Illuminated Riflescope is a high-performance rifle scope that offers affordability without compromising on optical quality. With a 3-9x magnification and a 40mm objective lens, this riflescope provides clear and crisp images for your hunting needs. One of its standout features is the illuminated Multi-X reticle, which allows for easy target acquisition and accurate shots. The reticle has 6 intensity levels, giving you control over the brightness of the center dot. Additionally, the riflescope is equipped with Bushnell's RainGuard HD lens coating, ensuring a clear view even in rainy conditions. Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, this scope is lightweight yet durable. It is also waterproof and nitrogen-purged, guaranteeing fog-free performance. The Bushnell Legend Illuminated Riflescope is a reliable companion for any hunting adventure.

What We Like
Good glass quality
Easy to sight-in
Great value for price
Intuitive adjustments
Durable for rugged use
What We Don't Like
Some issues with zero retention

Leupold VX-Freedom Riflescope

181307
Hunt-Plex (181307)
Leupold VX-Freedom Riflescope Cover
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40 (1 inch) Hunt-Plex Reticle Riflescope

The Leupold Hunt-Plex Scope is a top choice for recreational sportsmen and sportswomen. With a 3:1 zoom ratio, you can easily adjust the magnification for different shooting scenarios. The Advanced Optical System ensures excellent light transmission, reduced glare, and crystal-clear resolution. This scope, designed and made in the USA, is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, providing reliability in various conditions. Backed by Leupold's customer care, it's a durable and high-performance riflescope.

What We Like
Incredible glass clarity
Lightweight design
Great price-to-performance ratio
Easy turret adjustments
Effective reticle for hunting
What We Don't Like
Basic features
Some may prefer more options
#TOP 10

Vortex Copperhead 4-12x44 Scope & 10x42 Binoculars

CPH-RF-BINO
Black
4-12x44
Vortex Copperhead 4-12x44 Scope & 10x42 Binoculars Cover
Vortex Optics Copperhead 4-12x44 Second Focal Plane Riflescope & Copperhead HD 10x42 Binoculars Bundle

The Vortex Copperhead Bundle combines a 4-12x44 riflescope and 10x42 binoculars, perfect for hunters seeking top-notch performance. The riflescope features a Dead-Hold BDC reticle, allowing you to easily estimate hold-over at various distances, ensuring accuracy in your shots. It also has fully multi-coated lenses for enhanced light transmission, making it easier to spot game in low-light conditions. Built with durable aircraft-grade aluminum, the scope can withstand strong recoil and harsh environments. The binoculars offer an HD optical system for vibrant color and clarity, enhancing your viewing experience in the field.

What We Like
High quality optics
Affordable pricing
Easy to zero
Includes accessories
Fast shipping
What We Don't Like
Limited long-range testing
Buying Guide Image

Sorting Out the Rifle Scopes That Are Right for You

Introduction

Picking out a rifle scope can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to shooting or hunting. With so many different brands, models, and features to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. In this article, we will cover some important factors to consider when choosing a rifle scope to help you make an informed decision.

Magnification and Objective Lens Diameter

One of the first things to consider when choosing a rifle scope is the magnification and objective lens diameter. The magnification of a scope is indicated by the first number in its description, such as 3-9x40. This means that the scope can be adjusted to magnify the image 3 to 9 times its actual size. A higher magnification can be useful for shooting at longer distances, but it can also make the image more difficult to hold steady. The objective lens diameter, indicated by the second number in the description, is the size of the front lens in millimeters. A larger objective lens diameter can gather more light, which can be beneficial for low light shooting conditions. However, a larger objective lens can also make the scope longer and heavier.

Reticle

The reticle, also known as the crosshairs, is the aiming point of the rifle scope. There are many different types of reticles to choose from, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Some common reticle types include duplex, mil-dot, and BDC (bullet drop compensating). Duplex reticles are the most common and have a simple crosshair design with thicker lines at the center and thin lines at the outer edges. Mil-dot reticles have dots or hash marks along the horizontal and vertical lines, which can be used for range estimation and windage/elevation adjustments. BDC reticles are designed for specific calibers and bullet weights and have markings that indicate where the bullet will impact at different distances.

Durability and Weather Resistance

When choosing a rifle scope, it is important to consider the durability and weather resistance of the scope. Most rifle scopes are made of aircraft grade aluminum, which is strong and lightweight. However, some scopes are made of other materials such as carbon fiber, which can be even lighter but may not be as durable. It is also important to consider the weather resistance of the scope, as it will likely be exposed to various weather conditions. A scope with a waterproof and fog proof design can be beneficial for maintaining the clarity of the image in wet or humid conditions.

Warranty and Customer Support

Another factor to consider when choosing a rifle scope is the warranty and customer support offered by the manufacturer. A good warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment in case of any defects or malfunctions. Most rifle scope manufacturers offer limited lifetime warranties, but the terms and conditions can vary. It is also important to consider the availability and quality of customer support. A manufacturer with good customer support can provide assistance with installation, troubleshooting, and repair if needed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing a rifle scope involves considering several important factors such as magnification and objective lens diameter, reticle type, durability and weather resistance, and warranty and customer support. By considering these factors and doing your research, you can make an informed decision and choose the right rifle scope for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best range for a 308 scope?

For a 308 scope, the ideal range is considered to be medium range, which is around 150 to 300 yards. A scope with 6-9x magnification, like the Leupold VX-3i, is recommended for this range. It is versatile and suitable for both target shooting and hunting.

2. What magnification do I need to shoot 1000 yards?

To shoot at a range of 1000 yards, a general rule of thumb is to have 1 power of magnification for every 100 yards. Therefore, a ten power (10x) scope is considered adequate for shooting at 1000 yards.

3. What scope to use for a rifle?

The suitable scope for a rifle depends on the purpose and the landscape. Scopes with 5x to 8x magnification are suitable for large game hunting, target shooting up to 200 yards, or hunting in enclosed landscapes like mountains or forests. Scopes with 9x to 12x magnification are best for target shooting beyond 200 yards or hunting in open landscapes such as deserts or fields.

4. What size rifle scope is best for deer hunting?

When deer hunting, it is recommended to use a scope with a lower magnification power. A scope with a magnification range of 3-9x40 is often considered the best choice for deer hunting as it provides a wider field of view and allows for accurate shooting at various distances.

5. How accurate is a 308 at 500 yards?

A 308 rifle can shoot MOA (Minute of Angle) or better at 500 yards. Most rifles chambered in 308 perform well within this range. Even with a rifle that shoots 1.5 MOA, which translates to 7.5 inches at the 500-yard mark, the accuracy is sufficient for hunting most big game animals.

6. Is 10x magnification enough for 500 yards?

While a 10x magnification scope may not be ideal for making a 500-yard shot on an animal, it is still doable. A higher magnification, such as 16x, would be almost perfect for making this shot on a big game animal. However, with careful aiming and proper technique, a 10x scope can still be used effectively at 500 yards.

7. How many yards is a 3-9x40 scope good for?

A 3-9x40 scope is generally considered good for shooting distances up to 300 yards. Each level of magnification in the scope provides additional clarity and zoom for every 100 feet, making it suitable for many big-game hunters within what is considered an ethical shooting distance.

8. What scope do I need for 300 yards?

For shooting at 300 yards, a 3-9x magnification riflescope is recommended. This type of scope provides additional levels of magnification, increasing clarity and zoom for every 100 feet. A 3-9x scope is commonly used by many big-game hunters for shooting at distances up to 300 yards.

Editor's Notes

During our rifle scope research, we found 24 rifle scope products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 100,667 customer reviews through our big data system to write the rifle scopes list. We found that most customers choose rifle scopes with an average price of $223.22.

The rifle scopes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of rifle scopes, including Vortex, Sig Sauer, AGM Global Vision, CVLIFE, Bushnell. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 2,893 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Paul Tilton Avatar

Paul Tilton is a fitness enthusiast. He doesn't like to work in front of a computer screen so he quit his job and runs a gym in Washington. He spent a lot of time on the road and has been a contributing writer for a well-known travel guide website. He is now happy to share his travel experience and professional knowledge of travel gear and fitness here.

Rifle Scopes Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Vortex Sig Sauer AGM Global Vision CVLIFE Sig Sauer Sig Sauer Vortex Bushnell Leupold Vortex
Color Black Black Black black BLK black Black Black Hunt-Plex (181307) Black
Style Dead-Hold BDC Rifle Scope 19-256 Rifle Scope Buckmasters BDC Non-Illuminated Reticle Buckmasters BDC Non-Illuminated Reticle Sonora Second Focal Plane Riflescope Illuminated Hunting Riflescope Hunt-Plex (181307) Vortex Optics
Sport Airsoft Hunting Hunting Hunting Hunting Airsoft Hunting, Shooting Hunting Hunting Hunting
Item Weight 16 ounces 2 Pounds 6.34 Ounces 1.4 Pounds 15.2 ounces 15.2 ounces 15.8 Ounces 14.6 Ounces 12.2 Ounces 680 Grams
Objective Lens Diameter 40 Millimeters 24 Millimeters 19 Millimeters 50 Millimeters 44 Millimeters 50 Millimeters 44 Millimeters 40 Millimeters 40 Millimeters 44 Millimeters
Magnification Minimum 3 1 x 2.5 x 6 x 3 x 3 x 4 x - 3 x 10 x
Compatible Devices Rifle Rifle Rifle Handgun, Rifle Shotgun, Rifle, Cross Bow Shotgun, Rifle, Cross Bow Rifle Rifle Rifle -
Material Aluminum Aluminum Polycarbonate Aluminum - - Aluminum Aluminum Aluminum Aluminum
Magnification Maximum 9 6 x 8 x 24 x - - 12 x - 9 x 12 x
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
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