10 Best Long Range Scope

I’ve tested numerous long-range scopes and consistently recommend the HT GEN-II 4-16×44 for its first focal plane design and superior light transmission, while the Monstrum Challenger 5-25×56 offers exceptional value with ED glass and lifetime warranty. The SIG SAUER Tango-SPR 6-24x52mm delivers tactical-grade precision for serious shooters, and the ND 6-24×50 provides versatile magnification for budget-conscious hunters. Key factors include magnification range, objective lens diameter, and durable construction materials. The complete analysis reveals specific performance characteristics for each application.

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Notable Insights

• Long range scopes feature 4-16x to 6-24x magnification ranges with objective lenses from 44mm to 56mm for optimal clarity.
• First focal plane designs maintain reticle accuracy across all magnifications, essential for precision shooting and range estimation.
• Aircraft-grade aluminum construction with waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof ratings ensures durability in harsh field conditions.
• Advanced features include illuminated reticles, zero-stop turrets, parallax adjustment, and multicoated lenses for enhanced light transmission.
• Budget-friendly options like Monstrum Challenger models offer lifetime warranties while premium SIG SAUER provides tactical-grade performance.

HT GEN-II 4-16×44 Rifle Scope with Illuminated Reticle

The HT GEN-II 4-16×44 Rifle Scope delivers precision engineering for serious long-range hunters who demand reliable performance in challenging conditions. You’ll get versatile 4-16x magnification paired with a 44mm objective lens that maximizes light gathering. The first focal plane design keeps your reticle proportional at any magnification level.

The scope’s upgraded multilayer lens coating enhances light transmission during dawn and dusk hunting sessions. You can make precise adjustments with 1/4 MOA click values. Side-focus parallax adjustment eliminates errors from 10 yards to infinity. The aircraft-grade aluminum construction won’t fail under recoil, while nitrogen purging prevents fogging in harsh weather.

Best For: Long-range hunters and precision shooters who need reliable performance in challenging lighting conditions and adverse weather.

Pros:

• First focal plane design maintains reticle accuracy at all magnification levels
• Excellent light transmission with multilayer coating for dawn and dusk hunting
• Durable aircraft-grade aluminum construction with waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof protection

Cons:

• Scope rings not included, requiring separate purchase
• Limited to 4-16x magnification range which may not suit extreme long-range applications
• 44mm objective lens is smaller than some competitors offering 50mm+ options

ND 6-24X50 AO Hunting Rifle Scope with Illuminated Reticle

Hunters and precision shooters seeking versatile magnification without breaking the bank will find exceptional value in the ND 6-24X50 AO Hunting Rifle Scope with Illuminated Reticle. This second focal plane scope delivers 6-24x magnification through a 50mm objective lens. You’ll get crystal clear HD glass with multi-coated lenses for superior light transmission.

The 30mm tube houses a red/green/blue illuminated mil-dot reticle. Parallax adjusts from 15 yards to infinity. Zero-locking turrets provide 1/4 MOA clicks for precise windage and elevation adjustments. At 24.3 ounces with 3.7-3.8 inches of eye relief, it’s nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed for weatherproofing. Users report excellent clarity for medium-to-long range applications, though some note mounting challenges.

Best For: Budget-conscious hunters and target shooters who need versatile 6-24x magnification for medium to long-range shooting applications.

Pros:

• Crystal clear HD glass with multi-coated lenses provides excellent light transmission and image clarity
• Versatile 6-24x magnification range with illuminated mil-dot reticle in three colors (red/green/blue)
• Nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed construction ensures reliable weatherproofing for field use

Cons:

• May sit too low when mounted, creating potential clearance issues
• Can experience blurriness during illumination adjustment and at varying distances
• Not recommended for higher-caliber rifles due to durability limitations

Monstrum Challenger 5-25×56 FFP Rifle Scope with ED Glass

Budget-conscious precision shooters gain significant advantages with the Monstrum Challenger 5-25×56 FFP Rifle Scope’s first focal plane design and ED glass construction. You’ll appreciate the multicoated ED glass that reduces chromatic aberration while delivering sharp images across the 5-25x magnification range. The 56mm objective lens maximizes light transmission for low-light performance.

The scope’s tactile turrets provide 1/4 MOA or 0.1 MIL adjustments with zero stop functionality. You can adjust parallax down to 25 yards, with some units focusing closer to 20 yards. The six-level illuminated reticle includes daylight bright settings without glass spillover.

At approximately $200, you’re getting lifetime warranty coverage and included mounting rings with anti-cant features.

Best For: Budget-conscious precision shooters and hunters who want first focal plane accuracy, quality ED glass optics, and reliable performance without paying premium scope prices.

Pros:

• First focal plane design with ED glass construction delivers sharp images and accurate reticle scaling across 5-25x magnification range
• Tactile turrets with zero stop functionality and precise 1/4 MOA or 0.1 MIL adjustments maintain zero after extensive use
• Exceptional value at $200 with lifetime warranty, included anti-cant mounting rings, and six-level illuminated reticle with daylight bright settings

Cons:

• Some units may be missing advertised accessories like sun shade based on customer feedback
• At 1.75kg total package weight, it’s relatively heavy compared to some competing scopes in this price range
• Limited customer review base with only 22 reviews may indicate newer market presence or lower sales volume

Monstrum Challenger 3-18×50 FFP Rifle Scope with ED Glass

Budget shooters who refuse to compromise on optical performance will find the Monstrum Challenger 3-18×50 FFP Rifle Scope delivers features typically reserved for scopes costing twice as much. You’ll get ED glass with multicoated lenses that eliminates chromatic aberration while maintaining crystal-clear image quality across the entire 3-18x magnification range.

The first focal plane Christmas Tree reticle provides fast target acquisition with detailed ranging information that remains proportionally accurate at any magnification setting. You’ll appreciate the daylight-bright illumination featuring six brightness levels, available in both MOA and MIL versions to match your preferred ranging system.

Precision turrets deliver repeatable adjustments with 1/4 MOA or 0.1 MIL clicks and configurable zero stops for consistent performance.

Best For: Budget-conscious shooters who want premium optical features like ED glass and first focal plane reticles for target shooting and casual plinking without paying high-end scope prices.

Pros:

• ED glass with multicoated lenses eliminates chromatic aberration and delivers crystal-clear image quality across the full 3-18x magnification range
• First focal plane Christmas Tree reticle maintains proportional accuracy at any magnification with daylight-bright illumination and six brightness levels
• Precision turrets with repeatable 1/4 MOA or 0.1 MIL clicks and configurable zero stops provide consistent performance

Cons:

• Heavy build at 1.59 kg may be cumbersome for some applications and hunting scenarios
• Stiff zoom ring and illumination dial mechanics can make adjustments difficult during use
• Large reticle design can cover smaller targets, limiting precision for competitive shooting applications

SIG SAUER Tango-SPR 6-24x52mm Tactical Riflescope (SOTS46000)

The SIG SAUER Tango-SPR 6-24x52mm delivers tactical-grade precision for serious long-range shooters who demand reliability in demanding field conditions. You’ll get 6-24x variable magnification through a 52mm objective lens with low dispersion glass optics. The 30mm tube construction provides durability you can depend on. This second focal plane scope features an MOA BDC-1 reticle for quick range estimation. The exposed zero-stop elevation dial and low-profile windage turret offer precise adjustments. Side focus control guarantees sharp target acquisition at varying distances. At 2.8 pounds, it’s built to withstand real-world hunting demands while maintaining waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof performance standards.

Best For: Serious long-range shooters and hunters who need tactical-grade precision and reliability in demanding field conditions with variable magnification capabilities.

Pros:

• High-quality 6-24x magnification with 52mm objective lens and low dispersion glass for excellent optical clarity
• Rugged 30mm tube construction that’s waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof for reliable performance in harsh conditions
• Includes premium accessories like factory-installed SPR mount, throw lever, and flip-back caps for immediate use

Cons:

• Customer feedback indicates potential alignment issues that may affect accuracy
• Some users have expressed concerns about the MOA BDC-1 reticle preference and suitability
• At 2.8 pounds, it’s relatively heavy which may affect rifle balance and portability

CVLIFE Rifle Scope 6-24×50 AO Red and Green Illuminated with Scope Rings

CVLIFE’s Rifle Scope 6-24×50 AO delivers exceptional value for shooters seeking long-range precision without breaking the bank. You’ll get 6-24x magnification with a 50mm objective diameter, providing 28 feet field of view at 100 yards. The scope weighs 1.4 pounds and offers 3.52 inches of eye relief.

You can achieve quarter-sized groups at 100 yards with 1/8-inch click adjustments. The red and green illumination enhances target acquisition in low-light conditions. At $43, you’re getting performance that rivals scopes costing considerably more. The aluminum construction guarantees durability for hunting applications.

Best For: Budget-conscious hunters and shooters who need reliable long-range precision without the premium price tag of high-end optics.

Pros:

• Exceptional value at $43 with performance rivaling more expensive scopes and quarter-sized groupings at 100 yards
• Versatile 6-24x magnification range with red and green illumination for effective target acquisition in various lighting conditions
• Durable aluminum construction with precise 1/8-inch click adjustments and compatibility with both handguns and rifles

Cons:

• Reduced eye relief and less effective performance at maximum magnification settings
• Lacks comprehensive instructions and has a learning curve for proper adjustment techniques
• Occasional packaging issues reported including cracked end caps during shipping

Arken Optics EP5 Gen 2 7-35×56 FFP Long Range Rifle Scope

Precision-minded shooters who demand unwavering accuracy at extreme distances will find their match in the Arken Optics EP5 Gen 2 7-35×56 FFP Long Range Rifle Scope. You’ll appreciate the multi-coated ED Japanese glass delivering exceptional clarity with minimal color dispersion across all lighting conditions. The first focal plane VPR reticle maintains consistent scale throughout the 7-35x magnification range.

The 34mm tube houses precisely tuned turrets with tactile feedback for repeatable adjustments. Arken’s Zero Stop System returns you to zero quickly and accurately. Aerospace-grade aluminum construction provides durability without excess weight. Nitrogen purging guarantees waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof performance in harsh environments. This scope excels in tactical and long-range applications.

Best For: Long-range precision shooters and tactical professionals who need exceptional optical clarity and reliable tracking performance at extreme distances.

Pros:

• Multi-coated ED Japanese glass provides outstanding clarity and minimal color dispersion across all lighting conditions
• First focal plane VPR reticle maintains consistent scale throughout the entire 7-35x magnification range for precise holdovers
• Arken Zero Stop System and tactile turrets deliver repeatable adjustments with quick return to zero

Cons:

• High magnification range may be excessive for shorter range applications or hunting scenarios under 300 yards
• 56mm objective lens and 34mm tube diameter result in a larger, heavier scope that may not suit lightweight rifle builds
• Premium features and construction likely command a higher price point compared to basic long-range scopes

HD 5-30×56 PRS Rifle Scope with Red Illuminated Reticle

The DiscoveryOPT HD 5-30×56 PRS Rifle Scope delivers exceptional long-range performance for shooters who demand professional-grade optics without the premium price tag. You’ll get 5-30x magnification with bright, sharp images through the 56mm objective lens. The first focal plane design features a glass-etched Christmas tree reticle with six red illumination levels. Precision 1/4MOA click adjustments provide 33 mils of elevation travel, while the zero-stop mechanism locks your preset position. The aluminum construction is nitrogen-purged for complete waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof protection. At 44 ounces, it’s built for extreme conditions with lifetime warranty coverage.

Best For: Long-range shooters, precision rifle enthusiasts, and hunters who want professional-grade optical performance and tactical features at a fraction of the cost of premium brands like Nightforce and Vortex.

Pros:

• Exceptional value with high-end features like first focal plane design, zero-stop mechanism, and 33 mils of elevation travel at significantly lower cost than comparable scopes
• Superior optical clarity with fully multi-coated lenses, 5-30x magnification range, and glass-etched illuminated reticle with six brightness settings
• Rugged nitrogen-purged construction that’s waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof with lifetime warranty coverage

Cons:

• At 44 ounces, it’s relatively heavy which may affect rifle balance and portability during extended shooting sessions
• Some users report issues with reticle accuracy and effectiveness of included scope rings
• As a newer brand, it lacks the proven long-term track record and widespread professional adoption of established premium manufacturers

SIG SAUER Buckmasters 4-16x44mm Riflescope with BDC Reticle

Hunters seeking reliable bullet drop compensation without breaking the bank will find exceptional value in the SIG SAUER Buckmasters 4-16x44mm Riflescope. This second focal plane scope delivers 4-16x magnification through a 44mm objective lens. You’ll appreciate the custom BDC reticle with holdover dots calibrated to 500 yards. The 30mm aluminum tube provides 75 MOA elevation adjustment and weighs just 0.95 pounds. Eye relief ranges from 3.85 to 4.17 inches for comfortable shooting positions. Waterproof and fog-proof construction withstands harsh conditions while maintaining zero reliability. Customer ratings average 4.8 stars, confirming consistent performance for both hunting and target applications.

Best For: Hunters and target shooters who need reliable bullet drop compensation at extended ranges up to 500 yards while maintaining budget-conscious pricing.

Pros:

• Custom BDC reticle with holdover dots provides accurate ranging to 500 yards without complex calculations
• Exceptional value with 4.8-star customer rating and robust waterproof/fog-proof construction at competitive price point
• Lightweight design at 0.95 pounds with generous 75 MOA elevation adjustment and reliable zero retention

Cons:

• Second focal plane design means reticle markings are only accurate at maximum magnification for precise ranging
• Limited eye relief range of 3.85-4.17 inches may not accommodate all shooting positions or eyewear configurations
• 44mm objective lens provides adequate but not exceptional light gathering compared to larger diameter scopes for low-light hunting

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Long Range Scope

I’ll guide you through the critical factors that separate exceptional long-range scopes from basic hunting optics. Your scope selection must balance magnification range requirements, objective lens diameter, focal plane positioning, turret precision, and glass clarity to match your specific shooting applications. These five elements work together to determine your scope’s performance at extended distances, and understanding each factor prevents costly purchasing mistakes.

Magnification Range Requirements

When selecting magnification for long-range shooting, you’ll need to balance versatility with precision across multiple engagement distances. Common magnification ranges like 4-16x and 6-24x provide excellent flexibility for most scenarios. These ranges allow close-target engagement at lower settings while delivering precise distant targeting at higher magnifications.

For extreme-distance shooting, I recommend considering 7-35x scopes. Higher magnification makes identifying and hitting small targets markedly easier at extended ranges. The increased zoom helps you spot minute details that determine shot placement success.

However, don’t chase maximum magnification alone. Excessive zoom can create stability issues and reduce your field of view. Most long-range shots occur between 8-20x magnification. Choose a scope that covers this sweet spot while offering lower settings for versatility and higher settings for specialized precision work.

Objective Lens Size

Objective lens diameter directly determines your scope’s light-gathering capacity and overall optical performance. I recommend 44mm to 56mm for long-range applications. Larger objectives above 50mm appreciably improve light transmission during twilight hours when game animals are most active.

The trade-off involves weight and bulk. A 56mm objective adds considerable mass compared to 44mm options, affecting rifle balance and field maneuverability. However, you’ll gain superior image brightness and sharpness.

Larger lenses deliver enhanced optical benefits including reduced chromatic aberration and improved clarity at maximum magnification. These advantages prove vital for precise long-range shot placement.

Consider your specific needs carefully. Hunters operating in varied lighting conditions benefit from 50mm+ objectives, while competitive precision shooters may prioritize the lighter weight of smaller diameter lenses.

First Vs Second Focal Plane

Beyond optical specifications, focal plane placement fundamentally affects how your reticle performs across magnification ranges. First focal plane scopes scale the reticle with magnification changes, maintaining accurate holdover points at every power setting. This design proves essential for long-range tactical shooting where you’ll engage targets at varying distances without time to dial adjustments.

Second focal plane scopes keep reticles constant in size regardless of magnification. While this makes ranging and holdover calculations less effective at different powers, the reticle remains clearly visible at lower magnifications. SFP designs work well for hunters shooting fixed distances.

I recommend FFP for versatile long-range applications requiring bullet drop compensation across multiple ranges. Choose SFP if you’re primarily shooting stationary targets at known distances.

Turret Adjustment Precision

Precision turret adjustments form the mechanical foundation of accurate long-range shooting. I need turrets that deliver consistent, repeatable click values. Most quality scopes offer either 1/4 MOA or 1/10 MIL adjustments per click. These measurements directly translate to bullet impact changes at target distance.

Tactile feedback is essential. I want audible clicks that I can feel and hear during adjustments. This feedback guarantees I’m making precise corrections without losing sight picture. Zero-stop mechanisms let me return to original settings instantly after temporary adjustments.

Locking turrets prevent accidental movement during transport or extended shooting sessions. Some models feature resettable turrets that I can zero to any position. Parallax adjustment eliminates reticle distortion across varying distances, typically ranging from ten yards to infinity in premium scopes.

Glass Quality Clarity

Crystal-clear glass determines whether I’ll spot targets at extreme distances or strain to make out basic shapes. High-quality glass with low dispersion delivers exceptional clarity and color fidelity, enabling precise target acquisition at long ranges. I require fully multi-coated lenses that enhance light transmission by reducing glare and increasing brightness during low-light conditions at dusk or dawn.

Extra Low Dispersion (ED) glass minimizes chromatic aberration, eliminating color distortion that degrades image sharpness at higher magnifications. A larger objective lens diameter captures more light, improving image brightness in dim conditions. The glass must maintain consistent optical performance across all magnification levels. This guarantees my reticle adjustments remain accurate for shots at multiple ranges without clarity degradation.

Construction Durability Standards

When selecting a long-range scope that’ll withstand years of hard use, I demand construction materials and design features that won’t fail under pressure. Aircraft-grade aluminum construction provides the ideal balance of weight reduction and structural strength. I prioritize one-piece tube designs over multi-piece assemblies because they eliminate weak points where failure typically occurs under heavy recoil.

Essential protection ratings include waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof certifications. Nitrogen purging removes internal moisture while O-ring sealing prevents contamination. These features guarantee consistent performance across temperature extremes and harsh weather conditions.

Shock-resistant internal mechanisms protect delicate tracking components from impact damage during transport and field use. Advanced lens coatings reduce glare while maintaining light transmission efficiency, critical for low-light shooting scenarios.

On a final note

I’ve analyzed these top-performing long-range scopes that deliver precision at extended distances. Each scope offers distinct advantages for different shooting applications and budgets. Your choice depends on specific requirements like magnification range, reticle preference, and intended use. Consider factors such as glass quality, tracking accuracy, and durability when making your selection. These scopes represent proven performance for hunters and precision shooters demanding reliable long-range accuracy.