Best Handgun Scopes: Top Pickup Review & Analysis
When it comes to handgun scopes, it’s all about unlocking potential—whether it’s bagging that trophy whitetail, managing hog populations, or stretching the boundaries of accuracy with revolvers. That’s where these scopes shine, becoming your trusty ally in the hunt or at the range.
I delved into the world of handgun scopes, searching high and low to uncover the cream of the crop—the ones that bring the most to the table for hunters and sharpshooters alike. It was all about finding those scopes that don’t just meet expectations but exceed them.
Now, let’s talk shop. Handgun scopes? They’re more than just accessories—they’re game-changers. In a world where precision matters, they extend your reach, enhancing accuracy and confidence.
So, what’s the secret sauce when scouting for these optical marvels? It’s about insights—understanding the relevance, knowing which features matter, and prioritizing the right scopes in your hunt for the perfect fit. It’s about finding that balance between hunting needs and shooting desires, ensuring the scope on your revolver or handgun is not just good but exceptional.
Handgun scopes? They’re not just tools; they’re enablers of precision and achievers of long shots. Trust me, finding the right one isn’t just about shopping—it’s about discovering a world of possibilities where every shot counts and every hunt becomes a triumph.
Handgun Variants Used for Testing Scopes
In my pursuit of testing scopes, I’ve explored some fascinating handgun variants that truly redefine what’s possible in the world of shooting.
First up, the Thompson Contender—a gem from 1967 that’s all about versatility. With its interchangeable barrels spanning various calibers, this handgun is a chameleon. Want iron sights? No problem. Or perhaps a barrel tailor-made for scopes with its unique rings? It’s got you covered. Talk about options!
Then there’s the Ruger Redhawk, born in 1980 and built tough for the hunt. This one’s a beast known for its durability against the recoil of the 44 Magnum. What’s more, the later models come with nifty design tweaks that make scope mounting smoother and handle that recoil like a champ. It’s not just a hunting tool; it’s a defense weapon—trusted by hunters and revered by those facing off against bears.
Testing scopes on these handguns? It’s been a thrill. They’re not just tools; they’re canvases for precision and power, each with its unique personality and purpose. Whether I’m exploring the interchangeable wonders of the Contender or feeling the rugged reliability of the Redhawk, it’s a journey into the heart of accuracy and performance.
Key features to consider when choosing a handgun scope
When diving into handgun scopes, I’ve learned a thing or two about what truly matters. Let me share these key pointers—the real deal when it comes to choosing the perfect scope for your trusty handgun.
First off, magnification—you want versatility. Look for scopes that offer a range that suits your needs. Whether it’s close-range hunting or aiming for the stars with longer shots, having that flexibility is key.
Size matters, especially in the world of handgun scopes. Compact and lightweight—those are your buzzwords. You want a scope that won’t throw off your balance or make your handgun feel like a brick. It’s all about maintaining that nimble maneuverability.
Durability? That’s non-negotiable. Your scope needs to handle the recoil dance and shrug off whatever Mother Nature throws at it. Shockproof and waterproof—these are the traits of a reliable partner in the hunt.
Now, let’s talk reticles—the soul of your scope. It’s all about picking the right style that syncs with your shooting style. Duplex, BDC, illuminated—choose wisely, my friend. It’s about clarity, visibility, and aligning with how you take your shots.
Handgun scopes? They’re not just accessories; they’re the bridge between precision and power. These features? They’re not just checkboxes; they’re the secret ingredients to a successful shot, ensuring every pull of the trigger hits the mark.
In-Depth Look at Top Handgun Scopes
1. Leupold VX-3 2.5-8×32
The Leupold VX-3 2.5-8×32—now that’s a scope that’s been on my radar for some time. Let me break down why this piece of gear has caught my attention.
First off, that Twilight Max Light Management System—it’s a game-changer in low light. When the sun starts to set, this scope keeps things crystal clear, ensuring I don’t miss a beat.
The multi-coated lenses? Pure magic. They enhance light transmission, aiding quick target acquisition while shrugging off scratches like it’s nothing. That’s what I call durability.
And speaking of toughness, this scope’s built like a tank. Waterproof, fogproof, shockproof—the whole package. They even have a thing called “The Punisher” system, ready to take on anything nature throws at it. Heavy brush? Impact? Bring it on.
The variable magnification is where the magic happens. Long-range shots or getting up close and personal—this scope’s got the range to handle it all. And that 15″ eye relief? It’s a blessing, ensuring I can shoot comfortably without feeling like I’m squinting through a keyhole.
Adjustments? They’re a breeze with those audible turrets. Long-range shots? Easy. And guess what? It’s not a burden to carry. Lightweight and easy to handle, this scope’s all about convenience without compromising quality.
But here’s the kicker—Leupold stands by this beauty with their Gold Ring Full Lifetime Guarantee. Repairs maintenance—covered for a lifetime. That’s the kind of assurance you want when investing in top-notch gear.
Sure, it might come with a higher price tag, but for what it offers—a blend of optics, durability, ease of use, and reliable performance—it’s a worthy investment. This Leupold VX-3? It’s not just a scope; it’s an ace up my sleeve, ensuring every shot is a bullseye.
Pros:
- Clear optics
- Versatile magnification range
- Lightweight
- Excellent eye relief
- Waterproof and fog proof
Cons:
- Limited low-light performance
- Relatively smaller objective lens
- Fixed parallax
- Moderate field of view
2. Burris Handgun 2-7×32
I’m completely captivated by the Burris Handgun 2-7×32 scope—let me share why this remarkable piece has me buzzing with excitement.
Glass clarity? Check. Low light? No problem. This scope brings bright optics that keep things crystal clear, even when the sun calls it a day. And that glass-etched reticle? It’s a magician—thanks to that High-Lume® coating, it’s all about maximum light transmission.
The Ballistic Plex Reticle? It’s my secret weapon. Accounting for a pistol bullet drop without me breaking a sweat? Now, that’s accuracy made easy.
Now, onto comfort. Eleven inches of eye relief? That’s a dream. Shooting with both eyes open? Piece of cake. Plus, that wide-eye box? It’s like this scope reads my mind, accommodating my shooting style without missing a beat.
Durability? Don’t underestimate this aluminum frame—it’s shock-absorbent yet feather-light. And guess what? Weather-proof construction and scratch-resistant glass. This scope laughs in the face of tough conditions.
Adjustments? Precision at its finest. Those quarter MOA turrets? They’re my ticket to pinpoint accuracy, holding zero even when things get intense. And that Burris Posi-lock System? It’s the glue that keeps everything in place—zero retention for reliability.
Fast target acquisition? This scope’s got it covered. Shooting up to 100 yards? Like a pro. Parallax? Fixed at 100 yards—no fuss, no hassle.
Mounting? Versatility is the name of the game. Compatible with any one-inch ring, it’s all about flexibility.
With its stellar optics, durability, precise adjustments, and user-friendly design, the Burris 2-7×32 handgun scope is a no-brainer for me. It’s not just a scope; it’s my partner in precision shooting, bringing reliability and performance to every shot.
Pros:
- Specifically designed for handguns
- Good eye relief
- Compact and lightweight
- Clear optics
- Precise adjustments
Cons:
- Limited magnification range
- Eye relief may not suit all handguns
- Not ideal for long-range shooting
- Limited field of view
3. Leupold FX-II Scout 2.5×28
I’ve got to say, the Leupold FX-II Scout 2.5×28 scope? It’s a game-changer, and here’s why I’m singing its praises.
Glass clarity? Absolutely top-notch. Whether I’m out hunting or hitting the range, this scope serves up brightness and clarity like no other. And that Duplex Reticle? Simple, yet brilliant—it’s all about locking onto targets in a flash.
Now, let’s talk comfort. That long eye relief? It’s a dream. No matter how I position my rifle or handle the recoil, this scope’s got my back. Plus, it’s versatile—it doesn’t just play excellent with scout-style rifles; it fits right in with others, too.
Durability? It’s a tank. Waterproof, fogproof, shockproof—this scope’s ready to tackle the harshest conditions without breaking a sweat. And to sweeten the deal, that Leupold Lifetime Warranty? Talk about reliability at its finest.
Adjustments? Smooth sailing. Those medium-priced turrets? They’re like music to my ears—precise movement, clear sound. Zeroing? Piece of cake, and once zeroed in, this scope holds onto that zero like it’s its job.
Magnification? Perfect for .22 rifles. It’s just right—no overkill, no fuss. And parallax? Nowhere to be found—just pure, clear shooting.
Mounting? Here’s the scoop: it doesn’t come with mounting rings. But fear not; aftermarket options like the Warne 1-inch Quick Detach Rings are the perfect match for a rock-solid fit.
The Leupold FX-II Scout 2.5×28? It’s a standout with its stellar glass quality, unwavering reliability, and its knack for blending perfectly with .22 rifles. Whether I’m hunting or honing my skills at the range, this scope’s become my go-to choice—it’s got that winning combination that hits all the right marks.
Pros:
- Ideal for scout rifles
- Generous eye relief
- Durable construction
- Compact and lightweight
- Good low-light performance
Cons:
- Fixed magnification
- Limited objective lens size
- Not suitable for long-range shooting
- Limited reticle options
4. Leapers UTG 2-7×32
The Leapers UTG 2-7×32 Handgun Scope? Let’s dive into why it’s piqued my interest.
Let’s talk reticles. This one’s got a cool trick—the PDC Reticle. Illuminated in red or green, and when the battery’s off, it turns back to black. Neat, right?
Now, for the nitty-gritty—turrets and adjustments. Lockable turrets for zero set and return, plus that center hex bolt? It’s all about precise ¼ MOA adjustments.
Optics? Decent game here. A range of 2-7x magnification with an adjustable eyepiece and a 32mm objective lens that gives me a sweet field of view. And guess what? Preset parallax at 35 yards for those hunting sessions.
Durability check! Nitrogen-flooded tube—rainproof, shockproof, fog-proof. Plus, that 25 inches of eye relief? Perfect for those marathon handgun shooting sessions. And let’s not forget the bonus—it comes with Picatinny and Weaver classic mounts, along with flip-up lens caps.
Affordable, you say? Bingo! It’s budget-friendly and packs in a bunch of features without burning a hole in your wallet. But here’s the catch—while it’s a great bang for the buck, remember the old adage about getting what you pay for in optics. Price against features—it’s all about balance.
The Leapers UTG 2-7×32 Handgun Scope plays in the budget-friendly arena and is tailored for target shooting and light hunting. It rubs shoulders with the NCSTAR 2-7x32mm or the fixed 4x28mm, offering a comparable performance level in its league. It might not be the top dog, but for its price, it’s a solid contender in the optics game.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Clear optics for the price
- Illuminated reticle
- Decent eye relief
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Limited durability
- Inconsistent quality control
- Turrets may be mushy
- Limited warranty
5. Athlon Argos BTR 1-4×24
The Athlon Argos BTR 1-4×24 scope? Let me give you the lowdown on why it’s caught my eye.
Let’s start with glass clarity—it’s pretty good, especially considering its price. Those fully multi-coated lenses? They amp up light transmission, giving me a brighter, clearer sight picture. And that AHSR14 MOA Reticle? Etched on glass, which means it’s usable even without illumination, but hey, daytime brightness could use a little boost. Plus, it’s got the First Focal Plane (FFP) Reticle mojo—scales up with magnification for precision at various distances.
Comfort matters, right? This scope’s got your back with 3.5 inches of eye relief—perfect for an AR pistol or your trusty rifle. And that wide field of view? It’s like having a roomy eye box for comfy aiming.
Durability? Check. One-piece aircraft-grade aluminum housing? Tough as nails. Don’t forget the XPL Coating—that’s its armor against scratches and the elements. And the cherry on top? Argon purging keeps it waterproof and fog-proof, ready to tackle any weather tantrums.
Adjustments? It’s got ½ MOA turrets—decent, but some might fancy finer ¼ MOA clicks. Zeroing? Easy peasy. Quick zeroing process and a reliable hold on zero.
Now, the nitty-gritty—magnification and parallax. This scope’s sweet spot? Close to mid-range, with that 1-4x magnification. Parallax? Set at 100 yards, seems A-OK. And accuracy up to 400 yards? Well-suited for smaller targets like varmint hunting with beefier scopes.
Mounting? Here’s the deal—it doesn’t come with a mount, but that’s alright, considering its affordable price tag.
The Athlon Argos BTR 1-4×24 scope? It’s a bang-for-buck hero, offering up decent glass clarity and a bunch of features that play nice with AR pistols or standard rifles. For close to mid-range shooting, this one’s a solid contender.
Pros:
- Competitive pricing
- Illuminated reticle
- Decent eye relief
- Good low-light performance
- Durable build
Cons:
- Limited magnification range
- Some reported quality control issues
- Clarity at higher magnifications
- Slightly heavy for its size
6. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout
I absolutely love the Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout scope. Let me tell you why this bad boy got my attention.
First off, let’s talk optics. It packs a versatile 2-7x magnification with a 32mm field of view, giving me plenty of flexibility in sighting. And that second focal plane V-plex reticle? It’s a rock star that stays consistent no matter how much I’m zooming in or out, making target spotting and tracking a breeze.
Durability? Check. Built like a tank with aircraft-grade aluminum, it’s nitrogen-purged, o-ring sealed, waterproof, and fog-proof. That V-Plex Reticle? Clear as day, just what I need for a crisp view.
Let’s delve into the nitty-gritty—turrets and reticles. Those capped turrets? Finger-adjustable, zero resettable, and guarded against accidental tweaks. And those fully multi-coated lenses? They’re working overtime, reducing glare and reflections for better visibility.
Eye relief? It’s the champ here—generous at 9.45 inches, and word on the street is it might even go beyond that, according to user reviews. That means comfort galore for effective aiming.
But hey, let’s talk trade-offs. At 1.5 lbs, it’s got a bit of heft—typical for scopes like this, though. Might need some extra support for steady shooting, especially if it’s mounted on a handgun. Freehand shooting might be a tad tricky.
Overall? This Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout is the real deal—adjustable magnification, durability, consistent reticle, and eye relief for days. Perfect for scout-style rifle setups or for a bit of supported handgun action during hunting escapades.
Pros:
- Designed for scout rifles
- Good eye relief
- Clear optics
- Durable build
- Waterproof and fog proof
Cons:
- Limited magnification range
- Fixed parallax
- Limited field of view
- Slightly heavier compared to competitors
7. Bushnell Trophy XLT 2-6×32
The Bushnell Trophy XLT 2-6×32 has really captured my interest, and I will explain why this scope has drawn my attention.
First things first—optics. It’s got fully coated lenses, rocking Bushnell’s Rain Guard HD coating. That means top-notch performance even when the weather turns moody. And get this—91% light transmission. It claims exceptional clarity even in unpredictable weather, perfect for sudden storms.
Let’s dive into the magnification game. It’s adjustable, ranging from 2-6x power, giving me some serious flexibility in targeting. Plus, that fast-focus eyepiece? Smooth sailing for quick and easy focusing.
The reticle game is pretty, too. It’s got the Bushnell Multi-X Reticle, which is versatile and practical. And the construction? Durable, shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof—standard qualities we all love in a trusty scope.
Now, let’s talk about reliability and warranty. I’ve heard murmurs about potential reticle zero issues with high-power cartridges, but by and large, it’s been reported as a solid performer for over two decades. But here’s the kicker—the lifetime warranty. Bushnell’s got my back with their “No Questions Asked” lifetime warranty, ensuring I’m always covered.
Summing it up, this Bushnell Trophy Handgun Scope, with its coated lenses, adjustable magnification, versatile reticle, and rock-solid warranty, sounds like a trusty companion for my handgun shooting ventures.
Pros:
- Affordable pricing
- Clear optics
- Compact and lightweight
- Decent eye relief
- Good low-light performance
Cons:
- Limited magnification range
- Limited objective lens size
- Some reported issues with turrets
- May lack advanced features found in pricier models
FAQs
Is it worth putting a scope on a pistol?
Absolutely. Scopes do wonders for accuracy. They don’t just magnify targets; they align the crosshairs and the target perfectly. Trust me, shooting with a scope? You’re in for a precision upgrade.
What is a good eye relief for a pistol scope?
Let’s dive into the eye-relief talk. Regular eye relief, around 3.5 to 4 inches, is the sweet spot for most scopes. It’s a balancing act between comfort, field of view, and magnification. Physics of optics, you know?
Why do people put scopes on handguns?
It’s all about range, my friend. While red dots and iron sights have their perks, a scope can extend your pistol’s range easily past 100 yards. Rest assured, it’s a game-changer for precision.
What is the most crucial part of a handgun?
When we talk about essential firearm parts, think of the action as the heart of the beast. It houses the core elements of the gun—the real guts. If you ask me, it’s the backbone of any firearm’s functionality.
Final Thought
Stepping into the world of handgun hunting brings a rush of excitement and a test of skill unlike any other. It’s a fusion of stealthy pursuit and the raw power of firearms, a challenge I can’t resist.
Pairing the perfect handgun with the right optic transforms the hunt, blending the finesse of stalking with the force of a magnum handgun. It’s like unlocking a new dimension in the hunting world—a thrilling blend of precision and power.
I invite fellow hunters to embrace this exhilarating challenge. There’s something extraordinary about handgun hunting, and exploring this realm could unveil a whole new level of hunting joy.
As for the scopes discussed, each brings its unique flair to the table. Clarity, reticle style, and durability are factors that speak differently to each hunter. I encourage sharing preferences and experiences, inviting others to dive into related articles to discover more options in this exciting category.
