Best Rifle Scopes for Hunting: A Buying Guide for 2023

In the ever-changing world of rifle scopes, designs adapt to match the rifles they accompany. As avid shooters and hunters, we understand the importance of selecting the perfect rifle scope that suits our needs. To guide you, we tested popular models rigorously to assess their performance and value.

During our testing, we made an astonishing discovery. Every scope, even the affordable ones, demonstrated accurate adjustments and exceptional durability. These modern rifle scopes surpass their predecessors significantly.

These versatile hunting scopes are designed for lightweight mountain rifles and offer impressive optical capabilities. They deliver precise shots, instilling unyielding confidence, even from a distant ridge in thin air.

After a comprehensive evaluation, we handpicked the finest rifle scopes, each catering to diverse shooting scenarios and host rifles. In this guide, you’ll find the best modern rifle scopes to elevate your shooting experience to new heights.

How We Tested the Best Rifle Scopes

• Clarity: One of the crucial factors in a rifle scope is the clarity it offers. We tested each scope’s clarity by examining how well it rendered images in various lighting conditions. A clear, sharp image ensures you can identify your target quickly and precisely.
• Durability: Rifle scopes need to withstand rugged outdoor conditions. We checked for robust construction and materials that can endure impact, shock, and environmental changes to evaluate durability. A durable scope ensures a long lifespan and consistent performance.
• Accuracy: Of course, accuracy is of paramount importance in any shooting scenario. We evaluated the scopes’ accuracy by assessing their ability to hold zero, track adjustments correctly, and maintain consistent performance over time.
• Ease of Use: A rifle scope should prioritize user-friendliness and effortless operation. We thoroughly assessed elements like simple zeroing, convenient setting adjustments, and an ergonomic overall design. An intuitive scope significantly improves your shooting encounter while minimizing the learning process. For more insights on testing your new riflescope, you can explore our article on how to test your new riflescope.

Now that we understand the criteria for choosing a rifle scope let’s explore some of the top products available in the market:

1. Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10×40

The Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10×40 is a versatile scope for various shooting and hunting scenarios. Its moderate magnification range makes it ideal for short to medium-range shooting, making it suitable for hunters who need quick target acquisition.

The scope boasts excellent glass clarity, providing sharp and clear images even in low-light conditions. The Duplex reticle offers a simple and uncluttered aiming point, making it easy to acquire targets swiftly.

With comfortable eye relief, shooters can maintain a safe distance from the scope while enjoying a whole field of view. The generous eye box ensures quick target acquisition, even in fast-paced hunting.

The Leupold VX-3HD features precise and reliable elevation and windage knobs, allowing shooters to adjust accurately to compensate for bullet drop and wind drift.

The scope exhibits minimal parallax, ensuring the reticle remains on target when moving your head. The 3.5-10x magnification range strikes a perfect balance between close and mid-range shooting.

The Leupold VX-3HD can be easily mounted on various rifles using compatible rings, providing a secure and stable connection. The turrets offer audible and tactile clicks, making adjustments a breeze, even while wearing gloves. The zero-reset feature simplifies sight-ins and field adjustments.

This scope features a second focal plane reticle, maintaining its size throughout the magnification range. Built with durability, the Leupold VX-3HD is rugged and can withstand harsh weather conditions without compromising performance.

The scope’s windage adjustment allows shooters to compensate for wind drift, ensuring accurate shots even in challenging wind conditions. The scope is sealed to prevent dust, debris, and moisture from entering, guaranteeing reliable performance.

Product Highlights

• Magnification Range: 3.5-10x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 40mm
• Twilight Max HD Light Management System
• Length: 12.6 inches
• Weight: 12.4 ounces
• Tube Diameter: 1 inch
• Reticle: Duplex
• Lightweight and compact design
• Scratch-resistant lenses
• Water, fog, and shockproof

Pros

• Excellent light transmission for low-light shooting
• Versatile magnification range for various shooting scenarios
• Durable construction for long-lasting performance

Cons

• Higher price point compared to some competitors

2. Maven RS1 2.5-15X44 FFP

The Maven RS1 2.5-15X44 FFP is a high-quality first focal plane scope designed for hunters who demand precision and versatility. Maven’s RS1 scope offers exceptional glass clarity, delivering bright and sharp images for improved target identification. The MOA reticle allows for precise holdover and windage adjustments.

The scope provides comfortable eye relief, ensuring shooters maintain a safe distance and a clear sight picture. The forgiving eye box allows for quick target acquisition. The elevation and windage knobs on the Maven RS1 offer precise adjustments to compensate for bullet drop and wind drift, allowing for accurate shots at various distances.

The scope has minimal parallax, keeping the reticle on target even when shifting your head position. The 2.5-15x magnification range allows for both close and long-range shooting. The Maven RS1 can be easily mounted on various rifles using compatible rings, ensuring a secure and stable attachment. The turrets are tactile and responsive, allowing for quick and precise adjustments on the go.

As a first focal plane scope, the reticle size adjusts proportionally to the magnification, maintaining accuracy at all power levels. Maven’s RS1 scope is constructed with durability and weather resistance in mind, making it reliable in challenging outdoor conditions.

The scope’s windage adjustment enables shooters to correct for wind drift, enhancing shooting accuracy. The scope is sealed to protect against environmental elements, ensuring consistent performance under weather conditions.

Product Highlights

• Magnification Range: 2.5-15x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 44mm
• First Focal Plane reticle
• Length: 14.1 inches
• Weight: 28.7 ounces
• Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Reticle: MOA
• Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass
• Fast-focus eyepiece
• Lightweight and sleek design

Pros

• Impressive optical performance with ED glass
• Smooth and precise turret adjustments
• Attractive design and build quality

Cons

• Limited availability in some regions

3. EOTech Vudu 1-10×28

The EOTech Vudu 1-10×28 is a high-end scope designed for tactical shooting and hunting. The scope’s glass clarity is exceptional, providing precise and detailed images even in challenging lighting conditions. The illuminated SR1 reticle allows for precise aiming in various environments.

With comfortable eye relief, shooters can maintain a safe distance from the scope while enjoying a wide and forgiving eye box for quick target acquisition. The EOTech Vudu features precise and responsive elevation and windage knobs, enabling shooters to make accurate adjustments in the field.

The scope exhibits minimal parallax, ensuring the reticle remains on target when shifting head position. The 1-10x magnification range provides versatility for both close and long-range engagements.

The EOTech Vudu can be easily mounted on various rifles using compatible rings, ensuring a secure and stable attachment. The turrets offer audible and tactile clicks, facilitating easy adjustments in the field. The zero-stop feature simplifies sight-ins and field adjustments.

The EOTech Vudu features a first focal plane reticle, maintaining its size throughout the magnification range. Constructed with rugged materials, the EOTech Vudu is built to withstand demanding environments and inclement weather conditions.

The scope’s windage adjustment allows shooters to correct for wind drift, improving shot accuracy. The EOTech Vudu is sealed to prevent dust, moisture, and debris from entering the scope, ensuring reliable performance over time.

Product Highlights

• Magnification Range: 1-10x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 28mm
• First Focal Plane illuminated the reticle
• Length: 10.6 inches
• Weight: 20.1 ounces
• Tube Diameter: 34mm
• Reticle: SR1
• Extra-low dispersion glass
• Quick-adjust turrets
• Daylight-bright illuminated reticle

Pros

• Versatile 1x to 10x magnification range
• Clear and bright illuminated reticle
• Robust construction for heavy-duty use

Cons

• Heavier than some competitors in this category

4. Meopta Optika 5 2-10×42

The Meopta Optika 5 2-10×42 is a versatile scope suitable for various hunting applications. Meopta’s Optika 5 boasts excellent glass clarity, delivering bright and clear images for improved target identification. The Z-Plex reticle provides a simple and intuitive aiming point.

With comfortable eye relief, shooters can maintain a safe distance from the scope while enjoying a wide eye box for rapid target acquisition. The elevation and windage knobs on the Meopta Optika 5 are precise and responsive, allowing shooters to make accurate adjustments on the fly.

The scope exhibits minimal parallax, ensuring the reticle remains on target when shifting head position. The 2-10x magnification range offers versatility for different shooting scenarios.

The Meopta Optika 5 can be easily mounted on various rifles using compatible rings, providing a secure and stable attachment. The turrets feature tactile clicks, making adjustments easy and reliable. The resettable zero function simplifies sight-ins and field adjustments.

The Meopta Optika 5 has a second focal plane reticle, maintaining its size throughout the magnification range. Built with rugged materials, the Meopta Optika 5 is designed to withstand demanding hunting conditions.

The scope’s windage adjustment allows for precise corrections, ensuring accurate shots in varying wind conditions. The Meopta Optika 5 is sealed to protect against dust, moisture, and debris, ensuring consistent performance over time.

Product Highlights

• Magnification Range: 2-10x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm
• MeoBright lens coatings
• Length: 12.6 inches
• Weight: 22.9 ounces
• Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Reticle: Z-Plex
• MeoDrop hydrophobic coating
• Second Focal Plane reticle
• One-inch tube diameter

Pros

• Impressive image clarity and brightness
• Durable and water-resistant design
• Excellent value for money

Cons

• Limited reticle options

5. Tract Toric Ultra HD 2.5-15X44

The Tract Toric Ultra HD 2.5-15X44 is a feature-packed scope for precision shooting and hunting. The scope offers exceptional glass clarity, providing crisp, high-contrast images even in low-light conditions. The MRAD reticle allows for precise holdovers and windage adjustments.

The Tract Toric Ultra HD provides comfortable eye relief, allowing shooters to maintain a safe distance and a comprehensive eye box for quick target acquisition. The elevation and windage knobs are precise and responsive, enabling accurate adjustments in the field.

The scope features minimal parallax, ensuring the reticle remains on target when shifting head position. The 2.5-15x magnification range offers versatility for various shooting distances.

The Tract Toric Ultra HD can be easily mounted on various rifles using compatible rings, ensuring a secure and stable attachment. The turrets offer audible and tactile clicks, facilitating easy adjustments while aiming.

As a first focal plane scope, the reticle size adjusts proportionally to the magnification, maintaining accuracy at all power levels. The Tract Toric Ultra HD is constructed with durable materials to withstand harsh outdoor conditions.

The scope’s windage adjustment enables shooters to correct for wind drift, improving shooting accuracy. The Tract Toric Ultra HD is sealed to prevent dust, moisture, and debris from affecting performance.

Product Highlights

• Magnification Range: 2.5-15x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 44mm
• Extra-low dispersion glass
• High-definition image quality
• Length: 14.2 inches
• Weight: 24.3 ounces
• Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Reticle: MRAD
• Fast-focus eyepiece
• Tactical turret system

Pros

• Crystal-clear optics with HD glass
• Smooth and precise adjustments
• The outstanding balance of features and price

Cons

• Slightly heavier than some competitors

6. Athlon Argos BTR 6-24×50

The Athlon Argos BTR 6-24×50 is a long-range tactical shooting and hunting scope. The scope delivers excellent glass clarity, providing clear, detailed images for precise target identification. The APRS2 FFP MIL reticle offers multiple aiming points for holdovers and windage corrections.

The scope offers comfortable eye relief, allowing shooters to maintain a safe distance while enjoying a forgiving eye box for quick target acquisition. The elevation and windage knobs on the Athlon Argos BTR are precise and tactile, allowing for reliable adjustments in the field.

The scope exhibits minimal parallax, ensuring the reticle remains on target even with slight head movements. The 6-24x magnification range offers excellent versatility for long-range shooting.

The Athlon Argos BTR can be easily mounted on various rifles using compatible rings, ensuring a secure and stable connection. The turrets provide audible clicks, facilitating easy adjustments even while wearing gloves. The zero-stop feature allows for a rapid return to the original settings.

The Athlon Argos BTR features a first focal plane reticle, allowing for accurate holdovers and ranging at any magnification level. Built with durability in mind, the Athlon Argos BTR can withstand harsh outdoor conditions and rough handling.

The scope’s windage adjustment enables precise corrections for wind drift, enhancing shooting accuracy. The Athlon Argos BTR is sealed to protect against dust, moisture, and debris, ensuring consistent performance over time.

Product Highlights

• Magnification Range: 6-24x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
• First Focal Plane reticle
• Length: 14.1 inches
• Weight: 29.6 ounces
• Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Reticle: APRS2 FFP MIL
• Fully multi-coated lenses
• Generous eye relief of 3.3 inches
• Illuminated reticle with multiple brightness settings

Pros

• Powerful magnification for long-range shooting
• Robust construction and weatherproofing
• Illuminated reticle for low-light conditions

Cons

• It may be bulky for some lightweight rifles

7. GPO Spectra 6x 4.5-27x50i

The GPO Spectra 6x 4.5-27x50i is a premium precision shooting and hunting scope. The scope provides exceptional glass clarity, delivering high-contrast, bright images for target identification. The illuminated reticle allows for precise aiming in low-light conditions.

The GPO Spectra offers comfortable eye relief, allowing shooters to maintain a safe distance while enjoying a generous eye box for quick target acquisition. The elevation and windage knobs on the GPO Spectra are precise and tactile, allowing for reliable adjustments on the fly.

The scope has minimal parallax, keeping the reticle on target when shifting head position. The 4.5-27x magnification range offers versatility for various shooting distances.

The GPO Spectra can be easily mounted on various rifles using compatible rings, providing a secure and stable attachment. The turrets feature crisp clicks, making adjustments easy and intuitive. The zero-stop feature simplifies sight-ins and field adjustments.

The GPO Spectra features a first focal plane reticle, maintaining its size throughout the magnification range. Constructed with robust materials, the GPO Spectra is built to withstand demanding outdoor conditions.

The scope’s windage adjustment enables precise corrections, enhancing shooting accuracy. The GPO Spectra is sealed to prevent dust, moisture, and debris from affecting performance.

Product Highlights

• Magnification Range: 4.5-27x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
• iControl illumination technology
• Length: 14.7 inches
• Weight: 29.8 ounces
• Tube Diameter: 34mm
• Reticle: MOA
• Dual rotation zero stop (DRZ) system

Pros

• Feature-rich scope with advanced illumination controls
• Smooth turret adjustments with the DRZ system
• Sturdy and reliable performance

Cons

• Higher price point than some competitors

8. Vortex Razor HD LHT 4.5-22×50

The Vortex Razor HD LHT 4.5-22×50 is a high-end scope suitable for precision shooting and hunting. The scope offers exceptional glass clarity, delivering clear and high-resolution images for accurate target identification. The G4i BDC reticle allows for quick and precise holdovers and windage adjustments.

The Vortex Razor HD LHT provides comfortable eye relief, enabling shooters to maintain a safe distance while enjoying a wide and forgiving eye box. The elevation and windage knobs are precise and responsive, enabling shooters to make accurate adjustments in the field.

The scope exhibits minimal parallax, ensuring the reticle remains on target when shifting head position. The 4.5-22x magnification range offers versatility for various shooting distances.

The Vortex Razor HD LHT can be easily mounted on various rifles using compatible rings, providing a secure and stable attachment. The turrets provide tactile clicks, making adjustments easy and reliable. The zero-stop feature simplifies sight-ins and field adjustments.

The Vortex Razor HD LHT features a second focal plane reticle, maintaining its size throughout the magnification range. The Vortex Razor HD LHT is constructed with rugged materials and is designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions.

The scope’s windage adjustment allows shooters to correct for wind drift, improving shooting accuracy. The Vortex Razor HD LHT is sealed to prevent dust, moisture, and debris from affecting its performance.

Product Highlights

• Magnification Range: 4.5-22x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
• High-density, extra-low dispersion glass
• Razor HD Light Hunter Turret
• Length: 13.6 inches
• Weight: 24.8 ounces
• Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Reticle: G4i BDC
• Lightweight yet rugged construction
• XR Plus fully multi-coated lenses

Pros

• Excellent light transmission and image clarity
• Lightweight design for easy carrying
• Precise and reliable adjustments

Cons

• Premium price tag

9. Trijicon Tenmile HX 3-18×44

The Trijicon Tenmile HX 3-18×44 is a high-quality precision shooting and hunting scope. The scope delivers excellent glass clarity, providing clear, detailed images for precise target identification. The illuminated MRAD reticle allows for quick and precise holdovers and windage adjustments.

The Trijicon Tenmile HX offers comfortable eye relief, allowing shooters to maintain a safe distance while enjoying a forgiving eye box. The elevation and windage knobs on the Trijicon Tenmile HX are precise and tactile, allowing for reliable adjustments on the go.

The scope exhibits minimal parallax, ensuring the reticle remains on target when shifting head position. The 3-18x magnification range offers excellent versatility for various shooting distances.

The Trijicon Tenmile HX can be easily mounted on various rifles using compatible rings, providing a secure and stable attachment. The turrets feature audible clicks, facilitating easy adjustments while aiming. The zero stop function allows for a rapid return to the original settings.

The Trijicon Tenmile HX features a first focal plane reticle, maintaining its size throughout the magnification range. The Trijicon Tenmile HX is constructed with durable materials to withstand demanding outdoor conditions.

The scope’s windage adjustment enables precise corrections, enhancing shooting accuracy. The Trijicon Tenmile HX is sealed to protect against dust, moisture, and debris, ensuring consistent performance over time.

Product Highlights

• Magnification Range: 3-18x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 44mm
• Extra-low dispersion glass
• Illuminated reticle with multiple brightness settings
• Length: 12.6 inches
• Weight: 25.6 ounces
• Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Reticle: MRAD
• Zero stop turrets
• Shockproof and waterproof

Pros

• Versatile magnification range for various shooting scenarios
• Illuminated reticle for low-light conditions
• Rugged construction for durability

Cons

• Heavier than some competitors in this category

Key Points to Keep in Mind When Buying Best Rifle Scopes

Before you decide on a rifle scope, several essential factors must be remembered. Each shooter has different preferences and requirements, so consider the following:

Optics and Reticle: The optics and reticle design quality can significantly impact your shooting accuracy. Look for scopes with high-quality glass and a reticle that suits your shooting style, whether a simple crosshair or a more complex mil-dot reticle.

Eye Relief and Field of View: Eye relief is the distance between your eye and the scope’s eyepiece while maintaining a whole field of view. Generous eye relief is essential, especially for high-caliber rifles, to prevent scope eye injuries. Consider the field of view to assess how much you can see through the scope at a distance.

Turret Adjustments: Turret adjustments allow you to compensate for bullet drop and windage. Look for scopes with easy-to-adjust and accurate turrets. Some scopes offer fingertip adjustments, making it convenient to make changes on the fly.

Scope Focal Plane: Scopes come in two focal plane options: the first focal plane (FFP) and the second focal plane (SFP). FFP scopes adjust the reticle size as you zoom, while SFP scopes maintain a constant reticle size. Choose the one that suits your shooting preferences.

Scope Tube Size: The tube diameter of the scope determines how much light it can gather, impacting image brightness and clarity. Standard tube sizes are 1 inch and 30mm. Consider your shooting needs and the available mounting options when selecting a tube size.

Durability and Weather Resistance: As mentioned earlier, durability is vital for a rifle scope. Opt for scopes with rugged construction and weather-resistant features to handle adverse conditions without compromising performance.

Weight: The weight of the scope can affect your shooting comfort and rifle balance. Strike a balance between a scope’s features and weight to ensure a pleasant shooting experience.

Conclusion

Choosing the best rifle scope is a crucial decision for any serious shooter. Consider your shooting needs, budget, and preferences before making your choice. Whether you opt for the Leupold VX-3HD for its optical excellence or the Trijicon Tenmile HX for its rugged build, investing in a top-notch rifle scope will enhance your shooting experience.