Which Rifle Scope Should You Buy?
Choosing the right rifle scope can be a daunting task, considering the wide range of options available in the market. However, it all depends on your specific needs and preferences. Are you looking for a scope for long-range shooting or close-quarters combat? Do you need a scope with advanced reticle options or one that is waterproof and fogproof? By considering factors like magnification power, objective lens size, reticle type, and durability, you can narrow down the choices and find the perfect rifle scope for your shooting style.
Top 5 Best Rifle Scopes
1. Optics Crossfire II Second Focal Plane, 1-inch Tube Riflescopes
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7x32 Rimfire, Second Focal Plane, 1-inch Tube Riflescope - V-Plex Reticle
User reviews
Always great. Vortex crossfire 2 is a great scope for the money.I have 5 of them. Use them on muzzleloader, 30-06 , 22lr and others. Clear and durable for hunting.
Fair price and accurate. Easy to mount and a great scope. Bought 2
Don't wait - just buy it. This scope is so good, I bought FOUR of them. For the money, you simply will not find a better, clearer, higher-quality, more durable crosshair scope anywhere. I use this for multiple calibers & distances, and it remains clear and accurate out to 100 yards plus. If you need a solid, well-made crosshair scope, buy this Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7x32. You will not regret it.
Great price and performance. I put this scope on a 22.LR rifle. Great quality and moa adjustments. Killer at this price.
Good budget scope. I own many scopes of varying price and quality up to top tier scopes. This isn't a top tier scope, but its priced accordingly. I purchased this for my kids first deer rifle and it is completely satisfactory for that application. Seems to be holding zero, the fit and finish is decent, glass quality is okay and it is a budget friendly price point. Hard to beat Vortex's "no questions asked" warranty as well. Would recommend this to anyone looking for a decently priced optic.
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7x32 Rimfire. The scope has great eye relief and clear glass. Put it on a Ruger Precision Rimfire rifle and it's a great combination.
Great value. I have been very happy with the Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7x32 Rimfire scope, now being used with my Ruger 10-22. For the low price, I wasn't sure of what the quality would be, but with Vortex's reputation, I took a chance. I'm glad that I did...the operation is smooth and, once dialed in, the scope has been rock solid and held zero. I have not been nice to it, as it rides around in my Mule UTV, but the glass is fog-free, build quality is top notch and I have not had any issues.
Great product. Easily went in place of old Tasco 4 power. Easy to sight in and great quality lens. Plus vortex has great customer service.
Fast shipping, great customer support, well packed, great scope
item as described - Thank you
This rifle scope from Optics is known for its exceptional optical clarity and durability. It features a second focal plane reticle, which means the reticle size remains the same regardless of the magnification level. With a 1-inch tube, it offers a wide field of view, making it ideal for fast-moving targets. The lenses are fully multi-coated to ensure maximum light transmission, even in low-light conditions.
Features:
- Second focal plane reticle
- 1-inch tube
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Shockproof and fogproof
- Waterproof
Pros:
- Excellent optical clarity
- Wide field of view
- Durable construction
- Good light transmission
Cons:
- Not suitable for long-range shooting
- Limited reticle options
2. Truplex .22 MAG 3-9x32mm Riflescope, Waterproof and Fogproof Rimfire Rifle Scope
Simmons Truplex .22 MAG 3-9x32mm Riflescope, Waterproof and Fogproof Rimfire Rifle Scope
User reviews
Great value. Works great! I'm new to shooting and zeroed this in pretty easily. I had bought another "no name" scope on Amazon and it was blurry and would not zero.. spend the extra $10 and buy this scope. Nice, clear lens.
Up close. I've purchased a total of three Simmons scopes and they all work extremely well for a reasonable priced scope. Glass and reticle are excellent easy to mount, adjustments for windage & elevation are easy to maneuver. Love these scopes! I mounted two on both my .22 cal as .22 mag
Works for the price. I have not mounted this scope yet, and this review so far will be my initial impressions, and I will certainly update it if there is anything worth nothing after mounting it up and zeroing my rifle in.This scope seems decently well built for the cost, the glass looks clear in moderate light. The power adjustment dial is a bit sloppy, but not too bad. The elevation and windage adjustment knobs are ABSOLUTE GARBAGE--the knobs are plastic and there is virtually no tactile click when you make any adjustments, making it very difficult to count clicks. Other than that, this scope is fine for $40. Let's try to keep in mind that this thing is a $40 scope, and not get too bent out of shape.It comes with rings, which is appreciated, but they look pretty thin and flimsy, which probably will not matter on a rimfire rifle with little to no recoil. The rings are tightened to a rail using thumb knobs, which I'm not a fan of, and I'm hoping I can get them cranked down good, but we'll see. I will edit my post if I note any problems. In any event, if the rings end up being garbage, I still think this scope is worth it's $40 alone.I plan on mounting it on a Ruger 10/22 .22lr (not .22 mag), so I do not plan on making any elevation and windage adjustments once I have it zeroed, so I don't care much about the funky clicks.Overall, looks like a decent little scope for $40, especially considering the fact that Simmons claims the glass is coated, and the scope comes with rings (albeit pretty crummy ones, but I think they'll work fine).As an added note about Simmons, while I'm inclined to not trust cheap Chinese scopes like this on a big bore bolt gun like a .30-.06, because of their heavy recoil and shock, I must note that my brother bought a Savage 110 .30-06 with a Simmons scope that came on it, with the intent on replacing it assuming it would not survive the thrash of the .30-06 in a bolt gun configuration; HOWEVER, his Simmons lives on today, about 5 years later, and certainly several hundred rounds put through the gun with the scope never taken off, and it has held zero. Would I trust it on a big bore bolt gun when hunting big game even in lieu of this luck? Probably not. But it's worth noting.
Nice Low End Scope - Great Value. Nice little scope for my bolt action .22 lr. Not a high end scope, but a great value and serves my purpose.
Great buy. Respected name brand. Gift for gun collector's new fire arm. Scope made very sturdy for high recoil. Overall very good.
It's ok for the money. I wanted an inexpensive 3-9x scope for my 22LR, after reading reviews I thought I would give it a try.Pros:well packagedhas hand adjustment with audible clicksclear opticsmagnification ring turns smoothlycomes with lens covers and cleaning clothCons:the mounts are horrible, one of the screws was strippedLuckily I had old dovetail mounts so I used them instead. Vista Outdoor owns Simmons and this 22 Mag scope is decent for the money, it's perfect for 50-100 yds. It is 12.25" long and weighs 10 oz.The parallax comes pre-set from the factory at 50 yds.
Scope was more than I expected and then some. This scope arrived on time and nicely packaged. I purchased this scope to install on a highly accurate .22 lr, 1932 antique Mauser, captured and brought back from the war by my father and given to me. I’ve been the sole care taker of this beautiful master crafted rifle over the past 62 yrs and have enjoyed shooting it every chance I got. The original open sights have never been a problem and are spot on. However, as I still enjoy shooting this gem at 71yrs of age my eyesight isn’t what it used to be and since the rifle was already grooved for mounting an optical sight I purchased and installed this one.Installation went smoothly and care given with tightening down the mount screws. At first indication of point of impact was using a laser sighting tool that indicated slightly high and left of the X ring and same confirmed with the first sighter fired at the range. With only 3 to 4 more rounds it was dialed in where the X meets in the middle. I’ve used it three times since mounting it and my zero has gone unchanged. I love the cross hairs and clear view this scope provides. I’m happy that I found this nicely made scope at an affordable price. It has definitely helped me in over coming my human shortfalls and dialed me right back in to making perfect shots at distance. I highly recommend this scope for small bores and doubt it would perform any less on larger center fire bores. A very nice scope.
Scope is great quality but the rings not so much. The scope came in perfect condition and seemed to be built from quality materials.But the rings that came in the box felt like they were made out of a cheap metal and both rings had either machining or finishing issues, the first scope ring fit on my dovetail just fine but had some parts void of any finishing leaving only shiny bare metal, the second scope ring seemed to have been machined incorrectly which made it slide around freely on the dovetail even when completely tightened down.I had to take a file to the top part of the clamp so it could have more room to tighten which eventually made it stay on tightly.Overall I say the scope is an amazing bang for your buck but you should also invest in some scope rings made by a reputable manufacturer because the ones that come in the box are bound to have some QC issues and are just made cheaply overall.
I'm new to shooting, I picked this up for my Savage Mark II as an entry into the sport and it's been quite the learning experience, but its a great scope. I prefer the truplex reticle and the 3-9x zoom is sufficient. I normally shoot at 75 yards indoors, but frequently plink outdoors with it as well and its great. I will eventually upgrade this for a lager lens on both ends, but for now its sufficient and very accurate once zeroed in. Would definitely recommend.
Was easy to sight in, very accurate and good price for the quality.
great little scope for the 22lr. very clear, easy adjustment, good focus.
4 stars at the regular price, 5 stars for the sale price. Scope works excellent and is perfectly sharp up to about 7x, and still pretty good at maximum magnification, at least my copy. Optic has some reflections from the uncoated lenses when pointing into light sources. Adjustment turrets track properly, and it holds zero just fine on a rim fire.The included rings work but aren't great, then again the whole set was cheaper than a set of good rings. I removed the cushion tape inside the rings, installed everything with loctite and proper torque, and lapped the rings.Caution: the cap for the windage and elevation turrets are not interchangeable - if you get them switched around, the elevation knob will turn when you tighten the cap down.Overall fantastic value.
This thing is perfect for my marlin 60 .22, went on easy sighted easy and is deadly accurate for the price. I’ve been using it for a couple years now and I have no complaints. Would buy again!
Specifically designed for rimfire rifles, this Truplex riflescope offers exceptional accuracy and reliability. It features a 3-9x magnification range, allowing for both close and mid-range shooting. The scope is waterproof and fogproof, making it suitable for use in various weather conditions. The Truplex reticle provides a clear and unobstructed sight picture, while the multi-coated lenses ensure bright and sharp images.
Features:
- 3-9x magnification
- 32mm objective lens
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Truplex reticle
- Multi-coated lenses
Pros:
- Accurate and reliable
- Clear sight picture
- Durable construction
- Bright and sharp images
Cons:
- Limited magnification range
- Not suitable for long-range shooting
3. Optics Copperhead Second Focal Plane Riflescope – Dead-Hold BDC Reticle
Vortex Optics Copperhead 4-12x44 Second Focal Plane Riflescope - Dead-Hold BDC Reticle
User reviews
Scope. I’ve bought a few of these scopes and they work well on my 22’s as well as my higher powered rifle’s. Nice scopes and easy to get a up close view. I can see where I’ve hit my target at a 100 yards with these scopes.
Just what I want. I have several complex and expensive scopes with all manner of adjustments.............I wanted a straight forward non complex scope I could set for 100 yards and use good old hash marks, not too fine retinal, and common sense to use for hitting a variety of targets for my ARs.....I am very pleased with my choice...These scopes are clear, easy to focus for my eye, and I can hit targets all day w/o any hassle..few, but adequate bells and whistles, Simple inexpensive and capable... I recommend them.
Excellent scope. Great scope but had to return it.1” tube was not long enough to fitbetween weaver rail mounts on older30-06 rifle.
best dollar value. Very clear . well worth the cost .
Nice budget scope, good for a bolt gun. This is a good quality scope for the price. It has a few limitations though.The pluses? It is capable of being accurately sighted in and of shooting better than most people are capable of shooting. The reticle is good out to a couple hundred yards, and the verticle and horizontal hashmarks on the reticle lines are nice for on the fly adjustments for wind and distance. It's a good piece of gear and is going to land on a hunting oriented bolt action in my house eventually.Downsides - the windage and elevation adjustment knobs are not confidence inspiring or precise - the clicks are muddy and sometimes worth 1/4" of MOA, sometimes they aren't. The reticle is a bit thick for targets out past a couple hundred yards, could be a bit finer.And last, a neutral point, neother positive or negative, maybe because of the size it seems a little recoil sensitive, easily shifted a little, rotated in the scope mounts if they are only torqued to spec, with mounts on a pic rail. The scope doesn't lose function, it just rotates in theount. It will hold if over torqued but I don't like doing that,bit is bad practice. This isn't a big deal for a bolt gun but this is currently on a 308 DPMS pattern semiauto, and I sometimes burn a hundred rounds at the range. I think the size of the scope and the amount of bouncing around of the the semi-auto action with recoil is tough on the mounts. I think it has more to do with my choice of gun and it wouldn't be a problem with a small or mid-caliber center-fire bolt gun which may be fired 20 times total at the range and which doesn't have an action violently slamming back, then forward. Might be fine in an AR 15 pattern rifle due to the reduced recoil and movement, but I haven't tested that.I am going to switch to a smaller more tactical optic for this gun but definitely keeping this very nice scope for hunting use. As my picture shows it's easily possible to get a tight group using this scope and it has nice functionality with the 3-9 adjustment and hash marks on the reticles. I would buy it again.
My Dad likes it. It's too basic for my own purposes, but it was the 1st modern rifle scope that my father has ever had. I have been a Vortex diehard for many years and purchased dozens of different models, from the FFP Diamondback 4-16x44 MRAD EBR-2C Reticle, to the Razor FFP 3-18x50 EBR-7C MRAD reticle, Venom 5-25x56 and Strike Eagle 1-6x24... The Enhanced Battle Reticle (the Christmas Tree upside down) is great for ranging- the 2C is good, but the numbers are inside the vertical and horizontal planes, but the 7C moved them out to the ends of each hash mark, and the models with illumination are very helpful with open center cross hairs.Back to the Copperhead--I had a budget of "no more than $100!" which I talked him into allowing me to adjust that to $150. I wanted to get him the crossfire II BDC reticle, but it had gone up to $199 and this one was $130, so it's what he wanted. I helped him with mounting & zeroing. it ultimately was the best thing for him. He loves the clarity, the capped turrets that were hand adjustable vs his last lifetime of scopes that require a dime or 33 flat to adjust the MOA (LOL he's old school)I couldn't possibly find it hard to imagine anything being able to impress him more- considering that he hates my MRAD EBR-2C & 7C reticles, and really REALLY hates exposed turrets despite their zero stops & the highly unlikely chance of "moving on their own " as he has expressed his worries about. I recommend this to anyone who is new to hunting scopes in the modern day and especially if you are like my dad and just coming from a steel tubed scope from the Vietnam era (okay maybe a little bit of an exaggeration lol ) but his last scope was definitely built in the 80s or 90s.
Vortex. Vortex 3 x 12 x 44 mm scope with Miller dots awesome scope would buy again super clear vortex is awesome.
Awesome service. I bought it for use on my .22-250
The Optics Copperhead riflescope is an excellent choice for shooters looking for a versatile scope with a dead-hold BDC reticle. The second focal plane design allows for accurate holdovers at various ranges. With fully multi-coated lenses, the scope provides optimal light transmission, ensuring clear and bright images. The rugged construction makes it shockproof, and the nitrogen purging makes it both waterproof and fogproof.
Features:
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle
- Second focal plane
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Shockproof
- Waterproof and fog proof
Pros:
- Versatile reticle design
- Excellent light transmission
- Durable construction
- Clear and bright images
Cons:
- Not suitable for long-range shooting
- Limited reticle options
4. VX-Freedom Specialty Scopes Rimfire Riflescope
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope, Rimfire MOA Reticle, Matte Finish
User reviews
High quality. Leupold! Quality for price. Competes with the higher dollar scopes. Great for whatever is in reasonable distance. I am not into trying to take down an Elk from Mars. Kill and eat, not wound and track.
This scope is a death dealing machine. Laser accuracySuper Easy to “zero”Easy to “dope” on the flyYou will not be disappointed…. But anything you put these crosshairs on will be…very briefly.😉
Great fit. I bought this scope to fit 22L rifle to use to teach grandkids gun safety and shooting before transitioning to more powerful hunting rifles. The rifle was handed down from my father-in-law so it may become an heirloom to be handed down again. Great fit for the Great Grandads rifle!
Clear glass, user friendly reticle. I have three of these (two are 2-7x33 and this one)... glass is very-very clear and the rimfire reticle is super easy to use. I site my .22s in at 100 yards with subsonic rounds and can hit dollar bill sized targets up to 220 yards... inside 150 yards is super easy to gauge with the reticle. Rifle: Tactical Solutions X-Ring Takedown.
very well made. clarity is great and easy to adjust controls
Scope Purchase. Outstanding service and quick turnaround from ordering through delivery! Excellent product and price
Awesome scope. Awesome scope. I have 3 of these scopes and they’re all tough, good looking and reliable scopes.
Great product as I have come to expect from Leupold. Best affordable variable power rimfire scope ever. I have it mounted on a CZ .22WMR bolt gun in Talley 11mm dovetail rings. Couldn't ask for better. Leupold's no hassle lifetime warranty is real, and their service has always been great. I have been using their stuff for 50+ years now, and keep going back.The only other scopes I use are Nightforce on most of my centerfire hunting rifles.
This rimfire riflescope from VX-Freedom offers exceptional performance and features specifically designed for rimfire rifles. With a wide magnification range of 3-9x and a large objective lens, it provides excellent clarity and brightness. The scope is made of durable materials, ensuring it can withstand recoil and harsh weather conditions. It is also waterproof and fogproof, making it suitable for use in any environment.
Features:
- 3-9x magnification
- Large objective lens
- Durable construction
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Multi-coated lenses
Pros:
- Great clarity and brightness
- Durable and rugged
- Wide magnification range
- Reliable in any weather condition
Cons:
- Not suitable for long-range shooting
- Heavy
5. Optics H6Xi First Focal Plane, 30mm Tube Hunting Rifle Scope
For those looking for a high-quality hunting rifle scope, the Optics H6Xi is a fantastic choice. With a first focal plane design, the reticle size adjusts with the magnification level, allowing for precise shot placement at any range. The 30mm tube provides excellent light transmission, and the XRPlus fully multi-coated lenses ensure clear and bright images. The scope is also shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof, making it ideal for use in challenging hunting conditions.
Features:
- First focal plane reticle
- 30mm tube
- XRPlus fully multi-coated lenses
- Shockproof, waterproof, and fog proof
Pros:
- Precise shot placement
- Good light transmission
- Tough and durable construction
- Clear and bright images
Cons:
- Expensive
- Heavy
Buyer’s Guide to Choosing the Best Rifle Scope
When selecting a rifle scope, there are several factors to consider:
- Magnification power: Choose a scope with a magnification range suitable for your shooting needs.
- Objective lens size: A larger objective lens allows more light to enter the scope, resulting in brighter images.
- Reticle type: Determine the reticle design that best suits your shooting style and preferences.
- Durability: Look for scopes that are shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof, ensuring they can withstand various environments.
Conclusion
With the advancements in technology, the best rifle scopes in 2024 offer exceptional performance and features. Whether you’re looking for a scope for hunting, competition shooting, or recreational use, there is a perfect option for you. Consider your specific needs and preferences, and choose a rifle scope that provides the optimal combination of clarity, durability, and functionality. With the right rifle scope, you can enhance your shooting experience and improve your accuracy on the field.
FAQ
Q: What is the best magnification range for a rifle scope?
A: The ideal magnification range depends on your shooting needs. For long-range shooting, a scope with a higher magnification range, such as 6-24x, would be suitable. For close-quarters combat or fast-moving targets, a lower magnification range, like 1-6x, is preferable.
Q: Are all rifle scopes waterproof and fogproof?
A: No, not all rifle scopes are waterproof and fogproof. It is essential to check the specifications of a scope to ensure it is designed to withstand environmental conditions like water and fog.
Q: Can a rifle scope be used on any type of rifle?
A: Rifle scopes are designed for specific types of rifles. It is important to choose a scope that is compatible with your rifle’s caliber and mounting system.