5 Best Rifle Scopes For Elk Hunting

Are you an avid elk hunter or are you a beginner in this pursuit? Welcome to the world of Elk hunting! A journey defined by the pursuit of one of North America’s most majestic and challenging game species.

Elk hunting requires expertise, accuracy, and the appropriate gear amid the untamed environment and the rocky terrain. At the heart of a successful elk hunting experience lies the choice of the best rifle scope, an optic that can make all the difference in a successful hunt.

In this article, we examine the essential factors to consider while choosing the Best Rifle Scope for Elk Hunting. From magnification to reticle type, durability to lens coatings.  We uncover the important components that elevate a rifle scope from good to exceptional for elk hunting. Join us as we explore these optics to make sure you have the resources necessary for a fruitful elk-hunting expedition.

Factors to consider when buying the Best Rifle Scopes for Elk Hunting

Magnification Range

For elk hunting, use a scope with a suitable magnification range. For a decent balance between close-range and long-range shots, a scope with a magnification range of 3-9x or 4-12x is typically appropriate.

Objective Lens Diameter

Consider a larger objective lens diameter (around 40-50mm) for better light transmission, which is essential during dawn or dusk when elk are most active.

Lens Coatings

To increase light transmission, and clarity, and reduce glare, look for lenses with various coatings, such as fully multi-coated or multi-coated optics.

Eye Relief

Opt for ample eye relief to prevent scope eye injuries and provide comfort during recoil.

Reticle Type

Choose a scope with a reticle that aids in quick target acquisition and holds over for various distances.

 

Best Rifle Scope For Elk Hunting

1) Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-16×44 Rifle Scope

 

Specifications

• 4-16x magnification
• 44mm objective lens
• 30mm tube diameter
• 2.75 – 11 mm exit pupil
• 3.8 in eye relief
• 6.7 – 26.9 ft at 100 yds field of view
• 20 yds to infinity parallax
• First focal plane
• Aircraft-grade aluminium material
• Fully multicoated
• Extra-low dispersion (XD) glass
• Waterproof, shockproof & fog proof
• Fast-focus eyepiece

The Vortex Diamondback 4-16x44mm Rifle Scope, featuring a 30mm tube and a First Focal Plane (FFP) design, embodies precision and versatility for the discerning hunter. The 4-16x magnification range strikes a balance, allowing for both close shots and long-range precision. With a first focal plane reticle, the subtensions remain consistent at any zoom level, providing accurate holdover and ranging estimations throughout the entire magnification range.

The 44mm objective lens gathers ample light, ensuring a bright and clear sight picture even in low-light conditions, a crucial advantage for early morning or late evening Elk hunting. Durably constructed and designed for ease of use, this Vortex Diamondback scope offers a sharp focus, rugged build, and exceptional performance that elevates your Elk hunting experience to new heights.

Pros

• The FFP reticle ensures that the subtensions remain accurate and consistent at all magnification levels
• The 4-16x magnification range offers versatility
• The 44mm objective lens allows for excellent light transmission, providing clear and bright images even in low-light
• The 30mm tube provides increased durability and offers more adjustment range for windage and elevation
• It is shockproof, waterproof, and fog-resistant, ensuring durability
• The optics deliver sharp and clear images, allowing for precise aiming and target acquisition

Cons

• It is nonilluminated

 

2) Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14×40 Rifle Scope

 

Specifications

• 4.5 – 14 x magnification
• 40mm objective lens
• 3.7 – 4.4 in eye relief
• 7.4 – 19.9 ft at 100 yds field of view
• 150 yds parallax
• 64 MOA windage/elevation
• Second focal plane
• Diamondcoat 2 optical coating
• Xtended Twilight lens system
• Waterproof, fog proof &shockproof

The Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x40mm Rifle Scope, equipped with a 1″ tube and a Second Focal Plane (SFP) design, is versatile and discerning for Elk hunters. Its 4.5-14x magnification range strikes a balance between short and long-range precision. Being a Second Focal Plane scope, the reticle size remains constant, providing a consistent aiming point at the highest magnification while maintaining a clear image at lower magnifications.

The 40mm objective lens allows ample light transmission, ensuring a bright and clear view even in low-light conditions. With Leupold’s renowned optical quality, durability, and precise adjustments, this VX-3HD scope offers sharp, bright images and reliable performance, making it a dependable choice for elk hunting.

Pros

• High-quality optics provide clear, sharp, and bright images, even in low-light conditions
• The magnification range offers versatility
• The SFP design keeps the reticle size constant, allowing for consistent aiming and easy target acquisition
• It is shockproof, waterproof, and fog proof, ensuring longevity and reliability
• The scope is lightweight and easy to carry
• Twilight Max HD system optimizes light transmission

Cons

• It is non-illuminated

3) Nightforce ATACR 4-16×42 Rifle Scope

Specifications

• 4 – 16 x magnification
• 42 mm objective lens
• 34 mm tube diameter
• 2.7 – 10.3 mm exit pupil
• 3.5 in eye relief
• 45 yds to infinity parallax
• 6.9 – 26.9 ft at 100 yds field of view
• Digillum illumination
• First focal plane
• Broadband multicoating
• ED glass
• Zerohold technology
• Waterproof, fog proof & shockproof
• Aircraft-grade aluminum material

The NightForce ATACR 4-16x42mm ZeroHold Rifle Scope, featuring a substantial 34mm tube and a First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle, is known for its precision and ruggedness. The magnification range of 4-16x provides versatility for engagements across varying distances, from short to long range, making it an excellent choice for versatile hunting elk.

The First Focal Plane design ensures that the reticle subtensions remain accurate at all magnification levels, allowing for precise holdovers and ranging estimations without needing to adjust for magnification. The ZeroHold feature simplifies zeroing and enables a quick return to zero after dialing elevation for different distances. With its robust construction, exceptional optical clarity, and innovative features, this NightForce ATACR scope offers reliable and precise aiming solutions.

Pros

• The first focal plane allows for accurate holdovers and ranging estimations at all magnification levels as the reticle subtensions remain consistent
• Versatile magnification range enables effective targeting at both short and long distances
• The 34mm tube allows for an increased adjustment range, providing more room for windage and elevation adjustments
• The ZeroHold system simplifies zeroing and ensures a quick return to zero after adjusting for different distances
• High-quality glass, providing clear, sharp, and bright images even in low-light conditions
• It is shockproof, waterproof, and fog-resistant, ensuring reliability and longevity

Cons

• It is relatively bulky

See also:

Best 22LR Rifle Scope for Target Shooting

 

4) Vortex Razor HD LHT 3-15×42 Rifle Scope

Specifications

• 3 – 15 x magnification
• 42mm objective lens diameter
• 30mm tube diameter
• 2.8 – 14 mm exit pupil
• 24.6 – 6.3 ft at 100 yds field of view
• 4.1 – 3.8 in eye relief
• 20 yds to infinity parallax
• HD optical system
• XR Plus fully multi-coated
• Second focal plane
• Illuminated center dot
• ArmorTek aluminum material
• Waterproof, shockproof & fog proof
• RevStop zero system
• Locking elevation turret
• Large diameter capped windage turret

The Vortex Razor HD LHT 3-15x42mm rifle scope, equipped with a 30mm tube and a Second Focal Plane (SFP) design, is the perfect balance between lightweight versatility and high-definition optics. The 3-15x magnification range offers adaptability across various hunting scenarios, allowing for both close and long-range applications.

In the Second Focal Plane, the reticle remains a constant size, ensuring a clear image across all magnification settings. The 42mm objective lens gathers ample light, delivering exceptional image clarity and brightness, particularly in low light. Built with the utmost precision and durability, this scope combines the acclaimed Razor HD optical system with a lightweight design, making it a stellar choice for hunters seeking top-tier optics.

Pros

• The HD optical system provides exceptional clarity, resolution, and color fidelity, ensuring sharp and vivid images
• The magnification range offers versatility
• The second focal plane keeps the reticle size constant
• The 30mm tube provides ample adjustment range for windage and elevation
• The scope’s compact and lightweight construction makes it easy to carry
• High Definition (HD) lens elements enhance resolution and contrast, contributing to clearer and sharper images
• The scope is shockproof, waterproof, and fog-resistant, ensuring reliability and durability

Cons

• It has a higher price range

See also:

Best Scopes for Air Rifles

 

5) Leupold VX-6HD 3-18x44mm Rifle Scope

 

Specifications

• 3 – 18 x magnification
• 44mm objective lens
• 30mm tube diameter
• 2.4 – 14.6 mm exit pupil
• 6.4 – 38.3 ft at 100 yds field of view
• 3.7 – 3.8 in eye relief
• 75/75 MOA windage/elevation
• Second focal plane
• Fiber optics illumination
• Guard-Ion rain-shedding optical coating
• Waterproof, fog proof & shockproof
• CDS-ZL2 elevation adjustment dials
• Side focus parallax adjustment
• Twilight max light management system
• Zero Lock Windage Adjustment

Best Rifle Scope For Elk Hunting FAQs

What is the significance of eye relief in an elk hunting rifle scope?

Eye relief is crucial to prevent injuries and ensure comfortable shooting, particularly with powerful calibers. Aim for at least 3-4 inches of eye relief to maintain a safe and comfortable distance between your eye and the scope.

How important are lens coatings in a rifle scope for elk hunting?

Lens coatings are crucial as they improve light transmission, reduce glare, enhance clarity, and provide protection. Opt for scopes with fully multi-coated or multi-coated lenses for optimal performance, especially in low-light conditions.

What’s the significance of the objective lens diameter in an elk hunting rifle scope?

A larger objective lens diameter allows more light to enter the scope, improving visibility during low-light situations such as dawn and dusk, which is vital for elk hunting.

Is durability an important factor in choosing a rifle scope for elk hunting?

Absolutely. Durability is critical, especially for hunting in rugged terrains. Look for scopes made of durable materials like aircraft-grade aluminum and those that are shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof for reliable performance in various conditions.

What is the ideal magnification range for an elk hunting rifle scope?

A magnification range of 3-9x or 4-12x is generally ideal for elk hunting. This range provides a good balance between close-range shots in dense areas and longer shots in open terrain.

See also:

Best Low Light Rifle Scopes for Deer Hunting

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the best rifle scope for elk hunting is a crucial choice that determines the difference between success and failure in the field. For maximum hunting success, the ideal scope should combine clarity, precision, durability, and the right magnification. Making an informed decision requires taking into account aspects including lens quality, reticle design, magnification range, and durability.

Finding a scope that suits your hunting preferences and style is essential, whether you prefer long-range shots or up-close encounters. A high-quality rifle scope designed specifically for elk hunting is an excellent investment since it gives you a dependable tool that improves accuracy, increases effective range, and eventually leads to a successful and enjoyable elk hunting adventure.

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