15 Best Long Range Rifle Scopes (Hunting, Budget)

Are you looking to buy a long-range scope for the ultimate precision and accuracy? Or are you looking for budget long-range rifle scopes you can use for big game hunting?

While you can use a red dot/holographic sight or a Low Power Variable Optic (LPVO) to shoot at close to medium-range targets, stretching your range requires a much higher power scope.

In this full guide, I will give you my top 15 picks for the best long-range scope models you can buy today. They are separated by their purpose and the strengths and features they offer.

For each one, I will discuss their key features, advantages and disadvantages, and what you should look for when picking between long-range rifle scopes.

• Best Overall: Burris XTR II 8-40×50
• Best Hunting Scope: Vortex Venom 5-25×56
• Best Precision Scope: NightForce NXS 5.5-22×56
• Most Versatile Scope: Vortex Viper HS LR 4-16×50
• Best Tactical Scope: Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25×56
• Best Budget Scope: Vortex Diamondback 4-12×40
• Most Durable Scope: Zeiss LRP S5 5-25×56
• Best for 22LR Competition: Sig Sauer Sierra6 BDX 2-12×40
• Best for 6.5 Creedmoor: Vortex Razor HD Gen III 6-36×56
• Best for .308: Athlon Midas TAC 6-24×50 HD
• Best for AR-15: Primary Arms PLx 6-30×56
• Best FFP Scope: Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50
• Best Lightweight Scope: Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10×40
• Best High-End Scope: Tangent Theta 5-25×56
• Best for Varmint Hunting: Vortex Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50

Best Overall

Burris XTR II 8-40x50

• Magnification Range: 8-40x
• Objective Diameter: 50 mm
• Length: 16.7 in
• Weight: 31.4 oz (890.2 g)
• FFP/SFP: FFP
• Reticle: F-Class DCH

Best Price on OpticsPlanetCheck on Amazon

Vortex Venom 5-25x56

• Magnification Range: 5-25x
• Objective Diameter: 56 mm
• Length: 15.3 in
• Weight: 35 oz (992.2 g)
• FFP/SFP: FFP
• Reticle: EBR-7C MRAD, EBR-7C MOA

Best Price on OpticsPlanetCheck on CabelasCheck on BrownellsCheck on Amazon

NightForce NXS 5.5-22x56

• Magnification Range: 5.5-22x
• Objective Diameter: 56 mm
• Length: 15.2 in
• Weight: 32 oz (907.2 g)
• FFP/SFP: SFP
• Reticle: MOAR, MOAR-T

Best Price on OpticsPlanetCheck on BrownellsCheck on Amazon

1. Burris XTR II 8-40×50 (Best Overall)

BUYING OPTIONS:
» Best Price on OpticsPlanet «
» Check Price on Amazon «

Key Features

• Magnification Range: 8-40x
• Objective Diameter: 50 mm
• Tube Diameter: 34 mm
• Reticle Options: F-Class DCH
• Field of View: 2.8 – 13.2 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: First focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.125 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Exposed
• Length: 16.7 in
• Weight: 31.4 oz (890.2 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.5 – 4.3 in
• Other Special Features: Parallax adjustment with side focus knob, illuminated reticle with 11 brightness settings, nitrogen-filled to make the scope fog-proof and waterproof, high-grade optical glass quality with Hi-Lume anti-reflective coating, zero stop feature to return to zero quickly

If you are looking for the best long-range scope overall, the Burris XTR II 8-40×50 is the one to pick. It has a wide range of magnification and extra features compared to other long-range scopes.

For example, the 8x to 40x zoom adjustment range on this particular scope is very wide. It helps you zoom out to make long-range shots that count while still having plenty of magnifications perfect for a mid-range scope.

The first focal plane reticle in the F-Class DCH style is impressive since it has many hash marks to help shooters make the most precise bullet drop compensation and windage adjustments.

Its features are also generous, from its anti-reflective coating to its zero-stop turrets, allowing for an easy return to accurate measurements and even its illuminated reticle with 11 ideal brightness settings.

If you need it, this scope has it.

Only one thing should make you question buying this, which is the weight, coming in at a hefty 31.4 oz. However, coming with all the features at a great price of around $1,000, this one is a no-brainer to pick up.

2. Vortex Venom 5-25×56 (Best Hunting Scope)

BUYING OPTIONS:
» Best Price on OpticsPlanet «
» Check Price on Cabelas «
» Check Price on Brownells «
» Check Price on Amazon «

Key Features

• Magnification Range: 5-25x
• Objective Diameter: 56 mm
• Tube Diameter: 34 mm
• Reticle Options: EBR-7C MOA, EBR-7C MRAD
• Field of View: 4.71 – 21.21 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: First focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.25 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Exposed
• Length: 15.3 in
• Weight: 35 oz (992.2 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.6 in
• Other Special Features: Parallax adjustment is from 15 yards to infinity, aircraft grade aluminum construction, RevStop Zero System for easier return to zero after adjustments, extra-low dispersion glass with HD glass elements and coating, fast focus eyepiece for quicker target acquisition, fogproof, shockproof, and waterproof

The Vortex Venom offers some of the best Vortex Optics scope technology that can help when performing long-range shooting for many different types of game. It is one of the best long-range rifle scopes for hunting out there.

Some of these features include an aircraft-grade aluminum construction, fully multi-coated lenses, and advancements in the windage and elevation turrets. These help your scope stay protected while hunting.

The friction reduction system on the windage and elevation turret plus the RevStop Zero System work together to make adjustments silky-smooth. They prevent you from accidentally adjusting below zero and messing up your calibration settings.

Its larger tube size and objective lens make it a must-have for any outdoor adventure, as its exceptional light transmission and great field of view ensure you can make the shots that count from dawn to dusk and beyond.

That said, the Vortex Venom also has exposed tactical turrets, which is ideal for making on-the-fly corrections, along with ample eye relief. It is meant for the long-range shooter who needs a reliable hunting rifle scope.

3. NightForce NXS 5.5-22×56 (Best Precision Scope)

BUYING OPTIONS:
» Best Price on OpticsPlanet «
» Check Price on Brownells «
» Check Price on Amazon «

Key Features

• Magnification Range: 5.5-22x
• Objective Diameter: 56 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm
• Reticle Options: MOAR, MOAR-T
• Field of View: 4.7 – 17.5 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: Second focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.25 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Exposed
• Length: 15.2 in
• Weight: 32 oz (907.2 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.9 in
• Other Special Features: Tall windage and elevation turret with grips and Zero Stop feature, parallax adjustments go from 50 yards to infinity, comes with an illuminated reticle for better visibility, fully multi-coated lenses for clearer sight picture, Hi-Speed turrets make adjustments faster per rotation

If you are looking for one of the best long-range rifle scopes for precision shooting, then the Nightforce NXS 5.5-22×56 is your best bet. It balances being accurate and aiming in with making adjustments quickly.

The turret and adjustment system are parts of a good precision long-range rifle scope. The Hi-Speed windage and elevation turrets make adjustments easy, satisfying, and quick, ensuring you can account for the environment before making a big shot.

The reticle on the Nightforce NXS is also great for precision and versatility since there are many options to choose from. You can pick from illuminated, non-illuminated, with more precise hash marks, and between MOA and MIL/MRAD options.

Combine these features with the fact that it has a long 3.9-inch eye box, and you have one of the best long-range scopes for those who want to be as precise as possible while not sacrificing user comfort.

4. Vortex Viper HS LR 4-16×50 (Most Versatile Scope)

BUYING OPTIONS:
» Best Price on OpticsPlanet «
» Check Price on Brownells «
» Check Price on Amazon «

Key Features

• Magnification Range: 4-16x
• Objective Diameter: 50 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm
• Reticle Options: Dead-Hold BDC
• Field of View: 7.4 – 27.4 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: Second focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.5 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Exposed
• Length: 13.6 in
• Weight: 21 oz (595.3 g)
• Eye Relief: 4 in
• Other Special Features: Adjustable parallax goes from 50 yards to infinity, HD lens elements, fully multi-coated, waterproof, and shockproof, ArmorTek coating to prevent scratches on the scope body, fast focus eyepiece seen on most Vortex Optics rifle scope models

The Vortex Optics Viper HS LR 4-16×50 is a versatile scope that does not have much in the way of weaknesses and can be used in different tactical or competitive situations. While this is true for most Vortex scopes, this one is great at it.

Zoom level choices (4-16x magnification) are great on this long-range rifle scope since you can still shoot at slightly closer and typically farther ranges. It occupies a good magnification or zoom range.

Add to that the wide field of view (27.4-7.4 feet/100 yards), long eye relief (four inches), and simple but helpful reticle, and you get a Vortex Optics long-range rifle scope you can use in almost any situation.

It also comes at a great price, just under $800. One of its only weaknesses is that the zoom does not go super high, which some ultra-long distance shooting requires.

5. Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25×56 (Best Tactical Scope)

BUYING OPTIONS:
» Best Price on OpticsPlanet «
» Check Price on Cabelas «
» Check Price on Brownells «
» Check Price on Amazon «

Key Features

• Magnification Range: 5-25x 
• Objective Diameter: 56 mm
• Tube Diameter: 35 mm
• Reticle Options: PR1, PR2, TMR, CCH, H-59, Tremor 3
• Field of View: 4.2 – 20.4 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: First focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.25 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Capped
• Length: 15.7 in
• Weight: 30 oz (850.5 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.8 in
• Other Special Features: Adjustable parallax goes from 50 yards to infinity, professional-grade optical system for unmatched light transmission and glare reduction, Zero Stop to allow the rifle scope to return to zero immediately, Zero Lock system to prevent accidental adjustments

If you are considering getting long-range scopes that are better for tactical use, then the Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25×56 is an excellent option. Its reticle and turret features are ideal for rapidly changing situations.

The Leupold Mark 5HD is one of the few scopes offering low-profile capped turrets and a Zero Stop and Zero Lock system. These features help prevent accidental adjustments and ensure your calibrations are locked in tight.

In tactical situations, you will want to shoot long-range with the best reticle, which is why the Mark 5HD uses the FFP Impact MOA reticle that is very similar to what the US Military uses.

However, the high-quality glass Leupold is famous for (plus the extra features) comes with a price of $2,200. It may be worth the price if you want a tactical long-range shooting rifle scope.

6. Vortex Diamondback 4-12×40 (Best Budget Scope)

BUYING OPTIONS:
» Best Price on OpticsPlanet «
» Check Price on Cabelas «
» Check Price on Amazon «

Key Features

• Magnification Range: 4-12x
• Objective Diameter: 40 mm
• Tube Diameter: 25.4 mm (1 in)
• Reticle Options: Dead-Hold BDC
• Field of View: 11.3 – 32.4 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: Second focal plane 
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.25 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Capped
• Length: 12 in
• Weight: 14.6 oz (413.9 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.1 – 3.4 in
• Other Special Features: Parallax adjustment is fixed at 100 yards, fully multi-coated lenses for glare reduction, shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof

If you are a long-range shooter looking for the best value for money scope at a low price point, then the Vortex Optics Diamondback scope is for you.

The one thing that surprised me with this scope was the quality of the optical glass. Many long-range scopes at this price point have unimpressive quality, but not Vortex Optics.

This is a great option for a durable daily scope that will not break the bank. It is ideal for those who want to start shooting long-range but not for those who want extreme long-range accuracy.

It may not have top-of-the-line features or high zoom, but it does the basics well at an unbeatable and affordable price. That is more than most other scope manufacturers can offer.

7. Zeiss LRP S5 5-25×56 (Most Durable Scope)

BUYING OPTIONS:
» Best Price on OpticsPlanet «
» Check Price on Amazon «

Key Features

• Magnification Range: 5-25x
• Objective Diameter: 56 mm
• Tube Diameter: 34 mm
• Reticle Options: ZF-MOAi, ZF-MRi
• Field of View:  5 – 23 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: First focal plane 
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.25 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Exposed
• Length: 15.6 in
• Weight: 36 oz (1020.6 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.5 in
• Other Special Features: Parallax adjustment is adjustable from 27 yards to infinity, daylight bright reticle illumination, LotuTec lens coating plus Zeiss Schott glass, aircraft grade aluminum construction, shockproof, waterproof, rust proof and fogproof

Zeiss is known to make some of the best long-range scopes. However, this LRP S5 model is particularly interesting because of its durability. This is due to the coatings and testing procedure it undergoes.

This long-range rifle scope comes with LotuTec and Zeiss T lens coatings, is made with aircraft-grade aluminum, and is tested underwater with salt water to ensure it does not rust.

This rigorous testing makes all the difference, especially considering you have the same quality glass you see in their camera lenses, binoculars, and other high-quality scopes.

This ruggedness does not come without a cost – both in weight and price. It is heavier than the average long-range shooting scope and is priced at an eye-watering $3,425.

8. Sig Sauer Sierra6 BDX 2-12×40 (Best for 22LR Competition)

BUYING OPTIONS:
» Best Price on OpticsPlanet «
» Check Price on Amazon «

Key Features

• Magnification Range: 2-12x 
• Objective Diameter: 40 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm
• Reticle Options: BDX-R2 Digital
• Field of View: 8.7 – 52.5 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: Second focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.25 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Capped
• Length: 14 in
• Weight: 21.4 oz (606.7 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.9 in
• Other Special Features: Adjustable parallax is non-adjustable at 100 yards, ten brightness levels – 2 night vision and eight daytime, IPX7 waterproof, argon purged for fog-proofing

If you are looking for a long-range rifle scope suitable for 22LR shooting competitions, then the Sig Sauer Sierra6 BDX is the one for you.

Part of the reason this long-range optic is an optimal choice is the lower zoom magnification range, as 22LR competitions will not be held with longer-range shooting past 1000 yards in mind, so 12x magnification is more than enough.

What is great about the scope is the clear reticle, forgiving eye box, and low-profile turrets. These combine to make the scope hard to accidentally adjust yet easy to aim in.

However, if you want something with higher zoom or for more long-distance shots, you must look elsewhere since this tops out at 12x.

9. Vortex Razor HD Gen III 6-36×56 (Best for 6.5 Creedmoor)

BUYING OPTIONS:
» Best Price on OpticsPlanet «
» Check Price on Cabelas «
» Check Price on Brownells «
» Check Price on Amazon «

Key Features

• Magnification Range: 6-36x 
• Objective Diameter: 56 mm
• Tube Diameter: 34 mm
• Reticle Options: EBR-7D MOA, EBR-7D MRAD
• Field of View: 3.5 – 20.5 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: First focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.25 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Exposed
• Length: 15.3 in
• Weight: 45.1 oz (1278.6 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.5 in
• Other Special Features: Adjustable parallax is from 10 yards to infinity, ten brightness levels on the reticle, fully multi-coated lenses with HD lens elements, shockproof, fogproof, and waterproof

If you are looking for the best long-distance scope for your 6.5 Creedmoor firing rifle, then the Vortex Razor HD Gen III is your best option.

This Vortex Optics scope has an extensive zoom range, from 6x all the way to 36x. This complements the ballistics profile of the 6.5 Creedmoor round, which has high velocity and long-range capacity.

Aside from reaching long distances accurately, it also has a useful EBR 7D reticle to help you adjust for any windage or bullet drop you encounter. It is not too complicated to use, too.

Two downsides of this long-range optic are the heavy weight and price, which is a sweat-inducing $3,999. With all the features it has, however, this scope will deliver what you need and more.

10. Athlon Midas TAC HD 6-24×50 (Best for .308)

BUYING OPTIONS:
» Best Price on OpticsPlanet «
» Check Price on Brownells «
» Check Price on Amazon «

Key Features

• Magnification Range: 6-24x 
• Objective Diameter: 50 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm
• Reticle Options: APLR4 MOA, APLR4 MIL
• Field of View: 4.6 – 17.8 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: First focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.25 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Capped
• Length: 14.6 in
• Weight: 26.3 oz (745.6 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.7 in
• Other Special Features: Adjustable parallax from 10 yards to infinity, advanced fully multi-coated lenses with HD glass elements for light transmission, Precision Zero Stop system to return to zero quickly

The Athlon Midas TAC 6-24×50 HD is a workhorse ideal for rifles chambered in .308, a workhorse for military snipers and game hunters alike. It is built to handle the recoil and ensure you have the aim to match your stopping power.

Since .308 rifles have a bit more kick than the previously mentioned 6.5 Creedmoor, you will need something with a longer eye box, which the TAC has at a respectable amount of 3.7 inches.

Additionally, this scope doesn’t add that much weight. At 26.3 ounces, it’s lighter than most other 6x to 24x scopes, which will help reduce fatigue when carrying it around.

Finally, the Precision Zero Stop feature helps you return to zero quickly, which is handy if you need to make immediate adjustments with haste.

11. Primary Arms PLx 6-30×56 (Best for AR-15)

BUYING OPTIONS:
» Best Price on OpticsPlanet «
» Check Price on Amazon «

Key Features

• Magnification Range: 6-30x 
• Objective Diameter: 56 mm
• Tube Diameter: 34 mm
• Reticle Options: Athena BPR MIL, Illuminated Mil-Dot, ACSS-Apollo
• Field of View: 3.8 – 16.6 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: First focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.25 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Capped
• Length: 14.6 in
• Weight: 38.2 oz (1083 g)
• Eye Relief: 4 in
• Other Special Features: Adjustable parallax is from 35 yards to infinity, top-of-the-line Japanese glass, daylight bright illumination plus night vision compatibility

The AR-15 is a very versatile rifle that can be set up for long-range shooting with an AR-platform rifle. If that sounds like your use case, then the Primary Arms PLx 6-30×56 is your best option.

This Primary Arms scope has valuable features you will not find on other scopes with similar zoom levels. For example, it has both daylight bright illumination and night vision compatibility.

That makes it an excellent pick for AR-15 shooters who want to use the scope in different situations. Bad lighting performance is also outstanding because of the Japanese glass and significant 56mm objective, which lets in more light and produces a more precise sight picture.

However, if you are looking for a lightweight option, it is best to consider another scope since this one comes in at 38 ounces, which is definitely on the heavier side.

12. Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 (Best FFP Scope)

BUYING OPTIONS:
» Best Price on OpticsPlanet «
» Check Price on Cabelas «
» Check Price on Brownells «
» Check Price on Amazon «

Key Features

• Magnification Range: 5-25x 
• Objective Diameter: 50 mm
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm
• Reticle Options: EBR-4C MOA/MRAD, EBR-7C MOA/MRAD
• Field of View: 4.8 – 24.1 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: First focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.25 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Capped
• Length: 5.8 in
• Weight: 31.2 oz (884.5 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.4 in
• Other Special Features: Adjustable parallax is from 25 yards to infinity, illuminated reticle with ten brightness settings, fast focus eyepiece

If your primary requirement when looking for the best long-range rifle scope is that it is in the first focal plane, then the Vortex Viper PST Gen II is your best pick.

The Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II has one of the best reticles on this list (EBR-4C), as it is not too focused on aiming speed or precision but balances both well.

The center of the reticle on the Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II is easy to find because of the thicker sides that thin out towards the center. Being an FFP scope, it also shrinks and grows with your zoom magnification, which goes from 5x to 25x.

Another great part of this FFP scope from Vortex Optics is that it offers value for money. It is not cheap at $1,399, but the quality you get for that price is hard to beat.

13. Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10×40 (Best Lightweight Scope)

BUYING OPTIONS:
» Best Price on OpticsPlanet «
» Check Price on Cabelas «
» Check Price on Brownells «
» Check Price on Amazon «

Key Features

• Magnification Range: 3.5-10x 
• Objective Diameter: 40 mm
• Tube Diameter: 25.4 mm (1 in)
• Reticle Options: CDS-ZL Duplex
• Field of View: 11 – 29.8 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: Second focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.25 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Exposed
• Length: 12.6 in
• Weight: 12.6 oz (357.2 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.6 – 4.4 in
• Other Special Features: Fixed parallax at 150 yards, CDS Zero Locking system to prevent accidental inputs, reversible throw lever for quicker magnification changes

The best long-range rifle scope for those looking for a lightweight option is the Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10×40. This Leupold model is the lightest on this list of scopes, coming in at only 12.6 ounces.

The VX-3HD keeps the basics intact while having valuable features that don’t affect weight – like the CDS Zero Locking system to prevent you from accidentally changing your exposed turret adjustments.

It is meant more for midrange and regular long-range shooting, as it maxes out at 10x zoom. Extreme long-range shooters should look somewhere else for something with more zoom.

However, if you want a lightweight, compact option that includes Leupold’s widely known quality glass, smooth turret operation, and compact design, then the VX-3HD is for you, the tactical shooter on the go.

14. Tangent Theta 5-25×56 (Best High-End Scope)

BUYING OPTIONS:
» Best Price on OpticsPlanet «
» Check Price on Amazon «

Key Features

• Magnification Range: 5-25x
• Objective Diameter: 56 mm
• Tube Diameter: 34 mm
• Reticle Options: Gen-3XR, Gen-2XR, MOA-ER, JTAC, TReMoR3, H59 MOA/MRAD
• Field of View: 5 – 24 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: First focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.25 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Capped
• Length: 16.7 inches
• Weight: 40.6 oz (1150.1 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.5 in
• Other Special Features: Fixed parallax at 165 yards, tool-less Re-Zero system to bring the scope back to zero, 33 feet waterproofing, shockproof, 11 reticle illumination settings

If budget is of no concern and you want the best premium high-end scope, then the Tangent Theta 5-25×56 is your best bet. It is the best long-range rifle scope that does not miss any features.

This long-range optic stands out from the rest with its huge selection of reticles. There are numerous options to choose from that will suit your shooting style – both in MRAD and MOA styles.

You can feel the premium build quality in the anodized matte finish on the aluminum body. While the weight can be an issue, it also helps with the durability, with it being shockproof and waterproof.

This is one of the best scopes out there, period. The premium glass quality, huge objective lens, useful Re-Zero feature, and numerous reticle options contribute to making this the high-end pick to get.

15. Vortex Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 (Best for Varmint Hunting)

BUYING OPTIONS:
» Best Price on OpticsPlanet «
» Check Price on Cabelas «
» Check Price on Brownells «
» Check Price on Amazon «

Key Features

• Magnification Range: 6-24x 
• Objective Diameter: 50 mm
• Tube Diameter: 34 mm
• Reticle Options: EBR2C MOA, EBR2C MRAD
• Field of View: 4.5 – 18 feet at 100 yards
• FFP/SFP: First focal plane
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.25 MOA adjustment per turret click
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: Exposed
• Length: 14.5 in
• Weight: 24.6 oz (697.4 g)
• Eye Relief: 3.9 in
• Other Special Features: Adjustable parallax from 10 yards to infinity, Zero Reset system to bring the scope back to zero, waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof

This Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 is the best varmint hunting scope for long-range use. It uses the great EBR2C reticle plus tactical turrets with grips for quick yet precise adjustments.

When varmint hunting, you need an optic that can aim fast and work in bad lighting conditions. The generous eye box and 50mm objective in this Vortex Optics scope achieve these requirements.

Since you will be shooting varmints at varying ranges, you will also find that the exposed turrets help make adjustments quicker. Add the EBR2C reticle and the variable 6-24x magnification, and you have a well-balanced, fast-aiming varmint hunting scope.

However, one thing I would have liked to see on this Vortex Optics scope is an illuminated reticle. Besides that, you cannot ask for more, especially at the low $449 price tag.

What Are Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Long Range Scope?

Before you pick a model from my list of the best long-range rifle scopes, there are factors you need to consider before buying. Each one is dependent on your needs and personal preferences.

Purpose and Shooting Style

The main consideration to have when getting a long-range scope is what you will be using it for. Will you be hunting with it in the wild or practicing extreme long-range shooting at a range?

If you were going hunting and lugging your rifle around, that would affect all the other factors like weight, zoom level, and even the reticle. On the other hand, these considerations would be reversed if you are just range shooting.

You will also need to consider if you are a tactical or competition shooter, as this will affect your budget and the features you would want, like smoother, more precise adjustment knobs or illuminated reticles.

Versatility is another vital consideration, as choosing a scope that will work in every scenario will affect your ideal magnification range, the materials used, and the environment-proofing you would be looking for.

Magnification Range

The magnification range is the next most important consideration to make because it affects your field of view, how zoomed in your target will seem, and the range at which you can effectively shoot.

If you are getting a lower magnification range like that on the Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10×40 scope, then you will do better at longer midrange shots but will flounder at ranges past 1,000 yards.

More zoomed-in scopes have a narrower field of view, which makes it nearly impossible to make shots out past 1,000 yards, but it is important if you are engaging targets a bit closer.

If you are a tactical shooter working in a hostile environment, you will want a wide magnification range (e.g., 8-40x), as this will give you the versatility needed to aim at and hit targets across a plethora of engagement distances.

Battery Life and Power Source

Battery life and the power source heavily depend on the way the reticle works and how often you will use the feature. Some reticles require power to work while others do not, like those with etched reticles.

Some reticles also have daylight bright illumination or night vision compatibility, which will use a lot more battery power than the standard brightness settings.

Before buying a scope, check to see how many hours the illumination is rated for and what type of battery it uses. Do this so that you can check if replacement batteries are readily available near you.

Objective Lens Diameter

The objective lens is located near the opposite end of the scope to where your eye sits. This is the part of the scope that lets in the light to allow you to see through the scope to the target.

Having a large objective lens is beneficial to having superior light transmission and image clarity in worse light conditions, but it can also be a hindrance since it adds extra bulk and weight to your already heavy long-range scope.

The objective lens diameter usually affects how large your scope tube is, and if your rifle and mount cannot take tubes larger than 30mm, mounting it will become an issue. You must thus balance lens size with the scope’s overall heft.

Reticle Type

There are different types of reticles that prioritize either quicker target acquisition or precision at a distance. However, there are some reticles that balance both well, like the EBR2C on Vortex optics.

There are also Bullet Drop Compensation vs. MOA vs. MRAD types of reticles that offer different windage and elevation compensation markings. Which one you should pick will depend on your personal preference and what you are used to.

Finally, reticle illumination is a great feature to have to make your crosshairs easily visible in all lighting conditions. If you are shooting in bad lighting conditions, then an illuminated reticle is ideal.

Parallax Adjustment

You should only pick long-range scopes that have a wide zoom range if they have an adjustable parallax. This is because the image might not look clear either on the low or high zoom without it.

It is not as needed on scopes that do not have wide magnification ranges because it will look decently clear at all zoom ranges. That is why I only recommended non-adjustable parallax on low-zoom scopes.

The parallax adjustments can usually be found on the side near the adjustment turrets or on the objective lens itself. The wider the adjustment range, the better it is for image clarity.

Eye Relief

You will want to have a generous and long eye relief or eye box because it will allow you to still see clearly even if your eye is a bit farther from the eyepiece of the scope.

If you want to be able to aim in faster, then having a long eye box is crucial. However, if you are going to be mostly stationary, like in target shooting, then it is not as important.

You will also want a long eye box if your rifle’s caliber has a lot of kick and recoil. If your eye is too close to the scope opening, the recoil might punch the scope into your eye socket, causing injury (scope bite).

Adjustments (Turrets) for Windage and Elevation

Windage and elevation turrets are crucial to making a long-range rifle scope work. They help you adjust your point of aim so that you can still hit the target even with all the environmental and distance variables in play.

There are two main types: exposed turrets and capped turrets. Exposed turrets are usually quicker to change but can accidentally be moved, while capped turrets are a bit harder to turn but will not be accidentally nudged so easily.

Look out for scopes that offer exposed turrets with a locking system. This offers the best of both worlds – easy adjustments while preventing accidental changes.

Focal Plane (FFP or SFP)

First focal plane (FFP) scopes will have the reticle change how big it looks as you move up and down your magnification range. This makes engaging targets at low zoom easier since the reticle still looks big.

On the other hand, second focal plane (SFP) scopes stay the same no matter the zoom. It is harder to aim at low zoom, but the hash marks are consistent across zoom levels, making it more intuitive to use.

In general, FFP scopes are better if you will be changing zoom levels a lot and want faster aim, while SFP scopes are better for those who want maximum accuracy and consistency.

Lens Coatings

Lens coatings look nice to have at first but are game changers depending on your use case. Most lens coatings reduce glare, increase scratch resistance, and improve light transmission.

If you are hunting in worse lighting conditions most of the time and are rough with your gear, then lens coatings can improve your shooting experience a lot.

However, if you are shooting in more controlled environments, having fully multi-coated lenses is truly just an extra.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Most scopes advertise being built with “aircraft-grade aluminum,” but not all are fog-proof, waterproof, or shockproof. These three features are vital to saving your scope from the elements.

If you are in humid environments a lot of the time, then getting a water-resistant and fogproof scope will help reduce the chances your scope will be damaged from the humidity and fogging up.

Shockproofing is great if you are a bit rough with your gear or you will be using it in situations where you may accidentally drop your rifle or bang it against a wall or rocks.

Mounting Capability and Options

Tube diameter and length are the key specs to look out for if you are concerned about mounting capability. The most common tube diameter is 30mm for most rifles.

It is always a good idea to check online forums and see if the scope you are considering fits your specific rifle and mounting system (Picatinny, Weaver, etc.).

A big plus is if the manufacturer either includes mounts with the scope or offers it as a discounted price bundle with the scope.

Budget and Price Range

As with any high-value consumer product, you are spending a lot of your hard-earned cash. To avoid breaking the bank, I suggest setting a hard cap on how much you are willing to spend.

Yes, the higher in price you go, the more features and high-quality materials are included. However, try to think about what features you actually need and will use on the regular.

The sweet spot for most long-range scopes when it comes to value for money is between $1,000 and $1,500. Of course, if any higher-end scopes go on sale, pick them up quickly!

Warranty and Customer Support

While it is not expected to happen most of the time, factory defects and lemons do come out once in a while. It is better to buy from a manufacturer that offers an unlimited lifetime warranty.

To be on the safe side, check online forums about the manufacturer that you are planning to buy the scope from. People usually post their experiences with customer service that you can check out.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

After learning more about the best long-range scope models you can buy, you might have related questions. I have answered the most commonly asked ones below.

What Is Considered a Long Range Scope?

To be considered a long-range scope, an optic needs to have enough zoom or magnification to resolve targets clearly out to at least 1,000 yards (0.9144 km).

This means a 1,000-yard target should look like it is only 100 yards out through the scope, which results in a zoom level of at least 10x.

How to Adjust Scope for Distance?

To adjust your scope for distance, use either the elevation turret or the hash marks on the reticle and calibrate it to the range your target is at, ensuring your reticle accounts for environmental factors. Do this process for windage as well.

How to Level a Scope?

Placing your rifle on a gun cradle and installing the scope mount first is the best way to level a scope. Then, use a string line level, Segway reticle leveler, or a Professional Reticle Leveling System to ensure it is perfectly level.

Final Thoughts on the Best Long-Range Scopes

Choosing a long-range rifle scope that can shoot past 1000 yards can be confusing because of the different scope brands, magnification levels, features, and terminologies out there.

The main factors to consider before buying one include how you will use it, the magnification range, size and weight, ease of use, mounting capabilities, optical quality, and extra features being offered.

Overall, I found that the best long-range scope was the Burris XTR II 8-40×50 because of its very wide zoom range, excellent glass, and useful reticle. However, what is best for you might be different.

Consider what your own shooting style is and what you personally prefer in a scope. At the end of the day, only you, as a shooter, can tell what scope fits your needs the best.