When it comes to long-range hunting, accuracy, and precision are the defining factors that can make or break a good hunting expedition. The Best Rifle Scopes for Long Range Hunting serves as the ultimate tool in a marksman’s arsenal, extending their reach and enhancing their ability to hit distant targets with unwavering accuracy.
Whether you’re a seasoned marksman or a beginner wishing to go on long-distance hunting, choosing the best rifle scope is a decision of utmost importance. This article serves as your compass as you navigate the vast world of long-range optics. It provides insights into the key characteristics and factors that distinguish the top-tier scopes created to improve your hunting experience.
The ideal scope is your entryway to a world of accuracy, clarity, and unsurpassed shooting performance, whether you’re tracking wildlife in the woods or competing in long-range shooting competitions.
Factors to consider when buying the Best Rifle Scope for Long Range Hunting
Magnification Range
A scope with variable magnification is necessary for long-distance hunting. The choice of magnification is based on the terrain, target distance, and your hunting requirements.
Objective Lens Size
A larger objective lens allows more light to enter the scope, improving image clarity and low-light performance. However, it can also add weight and bulk to your setup.
Optical Quality
The best scope for long-range hunting should have excellent optics. To reduce glare and improve visual clarity, look for scopes with high-quality glass, multi-coated lenses, and anti-reflective coatings.
Parallax Adjustment
Long-range scopes often feature parallax adjustment to eliminate optical distortion and ensure that your crosshair remains on target at various distances.
Recoil Resistance
Make sure the scope is designed to handle the recoil of your rifle. Check for scopes with a high recoil rating and strong construction materials.
Best Rifle Scope for Long Range Hunting
1) Leica PRS 5-30x56mm Rifle Scope
Specifications
- 5 – 30 x magnification
- 56 mm objective lens
- 34 mm tube diameter
- 2 – 9 mm exit pupil
- 90 mm eye relief
- 4.2 – 27 ft at 100 yds field of view
- 21.9 yds parallax
- AquaDura optical coating
- First focal plane
- Waterproof, fog proof & shockproof
- 1/3 MOA adjustment click value
The Leica PRS 5-30x56mm is a precision long-range rifle scope designed for the most demanding shooting applications. With its substantial 34mm main tube, this first focal plane scope offers versatility and high magnification, making it an excellent choice for long-range hunting. With a generous objective lens of 56mm, it provides remarkable light transmission, ensuring bright and clear images even in low-light conditions.
The first focal plane reticle adjusts in size as you zoom in, allowing for accurate range estimation and holdover at all magnification levels. Leica’s renowned optical quality and robust, durable construction make the PRS 5-30x56mm a top-tier choice for shooters seeking precision and clarity in every shot, no matter the distance or environmental conditions.
Pros
- Its exceptional glass quality, delivers crisp, clear, and bright images even in low-light conditions
- The first focal plane reticle, allows for precise holdover and ranging at all power levels
- With a magnification range of 5x to 30x, it offers versatility for various shooting scenarios
- The 56mm objective lens ensures exceptional light-gathering capability
- The 34mm main tube and rugged construction make it durable and able to withstand harsh conditions and recoil
Cons
- It lacks illumination
2) Vortex Razor HD Gen III 6-36x56mm Rifle Scope
Specifications
- 6 – 36 x magnification
- 56 mm objective lens
- 34 mm tube diameter
- 3.5 in eye relief
- 3.5 – 20.5 ft at 100 yds field of view
- 10 yds to infinity parallax
- First focal plane
- XR Plus fully multi-coated
- Glass-etched reticle
- Aircraft-grade aluminum material
- Locking side illumination
- Waterproof, fog proof & shockproof
The Vortex Razor HD Gen III 6-36x56mm is an elite long-range rifle scope designed for precision shooting in the most demanding conditions. With its substantial 34mm main tube and generous 56mm objective lens, this first focal plane scope delivers exceptional clarity and brightness, even in low-light situations. The versatile 6-36x magnification range allows for precision at both close and extreme distances.
Its first focal plane reticle adjusts in size as you zoom, ensuring accurate holdover and ranging at any power level. Built with the highest-quality materials, this scope is rugged, durable, and highly resistant to recoil, making it a top choice for competitive shooters, long-range hunters, and tactical marksmen who demand top-tier optics and performance in every shot.
Pros
- High-quality opticals, providing incredibly sharp, clear, and bright images, even in low-light conditions
- The first focal plane reticle allows for precise ranging and holdover at all power settings
- With a magnification range offers tremendous versatility for various shooting scenarios
- The 56mm objective lens ensures optimal light transmission, making it suitable for low-light
- The 34mm tube, shockproof design, and rugged build make this scope highly durable and withstand recoil
- The elevation and windage turrets feature a zero stop, making it easier to return to your zero settings after adjusting for long-range shots
- Has an illuminated reticle, enhancing visibility in low-light conditions
Cons
- It is relatively heavy
3) NightForce ATACR 7-35x56mm Rifle Scope
Specifications
- 7 – 35 x magnification
- 56 mm objective lens
- 34 mm tube diameter
- 3.26 – 3.58 in eye relief
- 1.6 – 6 mm exit pupil
- 3.4 – 15 ft at 100 yds field of view
- 11 yds to infinity parallax
- 60 – 100 MOA adjustment range
- Fully multi-coated
- Capped windage adjustment
- Integrated power throw lever
- Digillum illumination
The NightForce ATACR 7-35x56mm rifle scope is an elite precision optic designed to meet the demands of long-range shooters. With a 34mm tube and an ample 56mm objective lens, it delivers exceptional light transmission and clarity, ensuring that every detail of your target is vividly displayed. The versatile 7-35x magnification range offers precision for both close-range and extreme long-range shooting.
This scope features a first focal plane reticle, which adjusts in size with magnification changes, allowing for precise holdover and ranging at any power level. Engineered with rugged construction, the NightForce ATACR is built to withstand recoil and harsh environmental conditions, making it an ideal choice for competitive shooters, long-range hunters, and tactical operators who demand uncompromising performance in the field.
Pros
- The glass lens and exceptional optical clarity, ensure bright, sharp, and high-contrast images
- The wide 7-35x magnification range offers flexibility for various shooting scenarios
- The first focal plane reticle enables precise ranging, holdover, and windage corrections at all power levels
- Is shockproof, durable, and capable of handling heavy recoil and extreme environmental conditions
- The 56mm objective lens provides excellent light-gathering capabilities
- Features a zero stop, simplifying the process of returning to your zero settings after making adjustments for long-range shots
Cons
- The scope has premium features that come with a premium price range
4) Burris XTR PRO 5.5-30x56mm Rifle Scope
Specifications
- 5.5 – 30 x magnification
- 56 mm objective lens
- 34mm tube diameter
- 1.8 – 8.6 mm exit pupil
- 4.2 – 23 ft at 100 yds field of view
- 3.5 – 4 in eye relief
- 33.6 oz weight
- Mil Rad adjustment
- First focal plane
- Waterproof
- Shockproof
- Fogproof
The Burris XTR PRO 5.5-30x56mm rifle scope is a high-performance, precision instrument designed to meet the demands of long-range shooting and tactical applications. With a 34mm main tube and a large 56mm objective lens, this first focal plane scope excels in delivering outstanding clarity and brightness, even in challenging lighting conditions. Its versatile 5.5-30x magnification range ensures that you are equipped for both close-quarters encounters and extreme long-range precision shots.
Featuring a first focal plane reticle, it adjusts in size as you change magnification, allowing for consistent holdover and ranging accuracy at all power settings. With a robust, shockproof construction, this scope is engineered to withstand recoil and endure harsh field conditions, making it an ideal choice for those who demand exceptional performance in the field.
Pros
- The scope delivers clear, sharp, and bright images even in low-light conditions, with its large 56mm objective lens and quality glass
- The 5.5-30x magnification range provides versatility
- The first focal plane reticle maintains its accuracy for holdover and ranging at all magnification levels
Cons
- It is not illuminated
5) Zeiss Conquest V4 4-16x44mm Rifle Scope
Specifications
- 4 – 16 x magnification
- 44 mm objective lens
- 30mm tube diameter
- 2.8 – 8.5 mm exit pupil
- 7.1 – 28.5 ft at 100 yds field of view
- 3.5 in eye relief
- 10 yds to infinity parallax
- 60/80 MOA windage/elevation
- Second focal plane
- High-performance optical glass
- Waterproof, fog proof & shockproof
- Lotutec coating
- HD lens
The Zeiss Conquest V4 4-16x44mm rifle scope is a versatile optic with its compact 30mm main tube and a moderate 44mm objective lens, this scope delivers exceptional optical clarity and precision. The 4-16x magnification range strikes a balance between close-quarters and mid-range shooting, offering shooters the flexibility needed for various scenarios.
The scope features a second focal plane reticle, ensuring consistent target subtensions regardless of magnification changes. Constructed with Zeiss’s renowned quality, this scope is robust and shockproof, capable of withstanding recoil and maintaining reliable performance in a variety of field conditions, making it an excellent choice for hunters and precision shooters who require clear, bright, and dependable optics.
Pros
- Its high-quality optics, offer excellent clarity and sharpness, even at higher magnifications
- The 4-16x magnification range is versatile
- The 44mm objective lens allows for good light transmission
- The scope offers various reticle options, which suit different shooting styles
- It is built to be rugged and durable hence water, shock, and fog-resistant
- The turrets have precision and repeatability, which is essential for making accurate adjustments
Cons
- It is not illuminated
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6) Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x40mm Rifle Scope
Specifications
- 4.5 – 14 x magnification
- 40 mm objective lens
- 1 in tube diameter
- 7.4 – 19.9 ft at 100 yds field of view
- 3.7 – 4.4 in eye relief
- 150 yds parallax
- Diamondcoat 2 optical coating
- Xtended Twilight lens system
- Waterproof, fog proof & shockproof
- Second focal plane
- 64 MOA windage/elevation
- Twin bias spring erector system
The Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x40mm rifle scope is a top-tier optic that combines exceptional optical clarity with rugged durability. It features a versatile 4.5-14x magnification range and a 40mm objective lens, providing a balance between low-light performance and a manageable size. With Leupold’s high-definition optics, this scope delivers sharp, bright images, even in challenging lighting conditions.
Its lightweight and compact design makes it suitable for various shooting applications, from hunting to long-range precision shooting. The VX-3HD series is known for its quality construction, waterproof and fogproof capabilities, and precise adjustments, ensuring reliable performance in any environment.
Pros
- High-quality optics that provide sharp, clear images with high-definition lenses
- The 4.5-14x magnification range is versatile, making it suitable for a wide range of shooting applications
- Featuring waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof properties is built to last
- The 40mm objective lens keeps the scope lightweight and relatively compact
- Features tactile and easy-to-use turrets that provide accurate and repeatable adjustments
Cons
- It is not illuminated
See also:
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7) Burris XTR II 8-40x 50mm Rifle Scope
Specifications
- 8 – 40 x magnification
- 50 mm objective lens
- 34 mm tube diameter
- 1.25 – 6.25 mm exit pupil
- 3.5 – 4.25 in eye relief
- 2.8 – 13.2 ft at 100 yds field of view
- Zero Click Stop adjustment knobs
- Triple internal spring-tension system
- Waterproof, fogoroof & shockproof
- First focal plane
- Side focus parallax
- High-grade optical glass
- Hi-Lume multicoating
- Multi-turn adjustment knobs
The Burris XTR II 8-40x 50mm rifle scope is a high-powered optic designed for precision shooting and long-range applications. With a magnification range from 8x to 40x, it caters to extreme long-distance shooters. The 50mm objective lens gathers ample light, ensuring excellent clarity and brightness, even in low-light conditions. This scope features a 34mm tube diameter, providing added strength and durability.
As a first focal plane (FFP) scope, the reticle size adjusts with magnification, enabling accurate holdover and ranging at all power levels. It incorporates advanced features such as zero-stop turrets, parallax adjustment, and a side-mounted illumination control. The XTR II 8-40x 50mm is a versatile and rugged optic, making it ideal for precision marksmen and competitive shooters who demand top-tier performance at extreme distances.
Pros
- The 8-40x magnification range is exceptionally high offering versatility
- The 50mm objective lens provides excellent light transmission
- The FFP reticle adjusts in size along with the magnification, allowing for accurate holdover and ranging at any power level
- The 34mm tube offers added strength and durability, and the scope is built to withstand recoil
- Zero-stop turrets, parallax adjustment, and side-mounted illumination control offer precise adjustments and customization
Cons
- It is nonilluminated
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Best Rifle Scope for Long-Range Hunting FAQs
What is the importance of a large objective lens in a long-range scope?
A larger objective lens allows more light to enter the scope, resulting in better image clarity, especially in low-light conditions. However, it may make the scope heavier and bulkier.
How important is parallax adjustment for long-range scopes?
Parallax adjustment is crucial for long-range shooting, as it helps eliminate optical distortion and keeps your crosshair on target at various distances.
What is the significance of optical quality in a long-range hunting scope?
Optical quality is essential for clarity, brightness, and low-light performance. High-quality glass, multi-coated lenses, and anti-reflective coatings are crucial for a great long-range scope.
What is the difference between first focal plane (FFP) and second focal plane (SFP) scopes?
FFP scopes have reticles that change size with magnification, which can be advantageous for range estimation. SFP scopes have fixed-size reticles, making them easier to use at high magnifications.
What is the ideal magnification range for long-range hunting scopes?
The ideal magnification for long-range hunting will depend on the distance you’ll be shooting and the size of your target. Most all-around hunting to 400 yards or so can be handled with a 3-9X or 4-12X, but you might like something up to 18X or 20X.
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Conclusion
As we conclude selecting the ideal long-range hunting scope, it is evident that the right optic can elevate your hunting experience to entirely new levels. The magnification, objective lens size, reticle type, and optical quality all play a crucial role in ensuring your shots find their mark, even at extreme distances. Durability, recoil resistance, and weatherproofing further guarantee that your scope endures the rigors of the great outdoors.
Investing in the ideal scope guarantees that you are prepared for the difficulties of long-range hunting, whether you are pursuing elusive animals in the woods or participating in long-range shooting competitions. So keep in mind that when you shoot toward the horizon, your choice of scope serves as the link between you and your destination.
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