Best Long Range Rifle Scopes - Top 9 Tactical Scopes For 2023
Hitting a target is difficult. It is even harder to hit a target that is 1000 yards away. You can see this in various videos on the Internet where people are having gunfights.
There are even videos where people are almost point-blank range and they are shooting at each other and missing.
You would think that shooting a gun is as easy as pointing and shooting. However, it is a very difficult thing to master and that is why even the best professionals spend hours and years mastering their craft.
This is not something that you can pick up casually and then not practice.
Shooting is an art and science that takes years to master like every other skill. That is why it is more important than ever to have the best rifle scope possible. There are many great long range rifle scopes on the market, and it is up to you to compare and contrast them to figure out which one will serve your needs the best.
Every rifle scope will have its own advantages and disadvantages. However, once you have found the scope that works perfectly for you then it will make you more accurate than ever.
There are many scopes on the market, and you have to choose one that works for your specific needs. There is also the aspect of pricing which means not everyone will be able to afford the perfect scope for them. The question is often asked about how we got here. We are now in a stage where shooting technology is better than ever.
For hunters, it easier than ever to get the right ammunition, guns, and scopes to have a lot of fun and success while hunting. The level of technology we have for this endeavor makes it a lot easier than ever before. Finding a great hunting rifle is now as simple as going online and seeing the various options available.
Long Range Rifle Scopes Buying Guide
Optics Quality
There are many scopes on the market, and you have to choose one that works for your specific needs. There is also the aspect of pricing which means not everyone will be able to afford the perfect scope for them. The question is often asked about how we got here. We are now in a stage where shooting technology is better than ever.
The level of technology we have for this endeavor makes it a lot easier than ever before. Finding a great scope is now as simple as going online and seeing the various options available.
Build Quality
One of the worst things that could happen is the constantly losing calibration, or worse, falling apart when you need it the most. You match all of that with the price and everything has to come together to give you a high-quality scope that you can use for many years to come.
Scope Adjustments
The scope also has to have various knobs you can adjust to make it fit perfectly for your current shooting situation. All the rifle scopes on the market are different, and it is up to you to see the one that will do a great job for you. Some of them can give you quick and easy adjustments, while others might not have enough grip to turn when using gloves but are great and holding it's position.
What is Considered Long Range?
Long range rifle scopes will be different based on the end-user. You have to understand what you are looking for to make the right decision.
For example, are you going to be hunting? How far is long-range in your dictionary. Many people consider 1000 yards to be long-range, but it can be up to 1 mile.
At that range, you would need a scope that is has precise a craftmanship behind it. A scope that's built with precision optics and the best glass you could possibly have. A scope that could help you hit a target from that far would require a high build quality and premium features.
You could also look at a scope that you can adjust and change to your specific needs. That means a scope that has the ability to adjust things to fit what you want. In extreme firefights, a rifle scope has to perform to your requirements or you might lose your life.
This is a huge consideration when looking for a good scope. One of the worst things that could happen is the rifle scope failing or being inaccurate at the wrong time.
Finding a scope gets easy when you know exactly what you want. So the question for you is do you know what you want?
Where will you be firing your gun using the scope? What is the consequence of the scope failing? What is your price range?
All of these things are important questions that you need to have the answer in order to get things done right. Another usually to think about is whether the scope will stay dialed in once you have made the proper adjustments.
One of the worst things about cheaper scopes is they might not be dialed in and stay that way.
You don't want to be in a combat situation and see that your scope is firing inaccurately. You also don't want to have to adjust your scope every time to fire your rifle. The consequence of missing a deer or another animal is different than the consequence in an active shooting situation.
Image Source: Derek Malou/Unsplash
Price Ranges
There are multiple scopes in various price ranges. That means there will be something to fit your needs depending on what your budget is.
When trying to buy a cheaper scope, you also have to accept that it won't be as feature-rich as something that is more expensive. Once you can accept that fact, there are plenty of options that will be perfect for you in lower price ranges.
We can go through the features and specifications of what the scopes will have depending on the price ranges.
Best Long Range Rifle Scopes Under $500
There are multiple scopes in various price ranges. That means there will be something to fit your needs depending on what your budget is. When trying to buy a cheaper scope, you also have to accept that it won't be as feature-rich as something that is more expensive.
Once you can accept that fact, there are plenty of options that will be perfect for you in lower price ranges. We can go through the features and specifications of what the scopes will have depending on the price ranges.
Best Long Range Rifle Scopes Under $500-$1000
At this price range, you will get a little more advanced features. Maybe the scope will be illuminated or it will have other features to allow you to operate in more weather conditions. The scopes are often accompanied by other accessories that will improve the performance of the school.
However, there won't be any groundbreaking features that you cannot live without at this price range. It might actually be better for you to buy a cheaper scope if you are just starting out in order to get more experience and understand what your needs are for scopes. You might also get scopes that are high-performance but reasonably priced.
These scopes will have features that you find in scopes over $1000, but they might be lacking something important that keeps them in this price range.
Best Long Range Rifle Scopes Over $1000
What separates these scopes from the cheaper ones is usually the build quality and more advanced features. You will find that scopes in this price range are built with the highest quality materials possible. They will also have the highest quality optics you could ever want and come with lifetime warranties.
They will include a lot of advanced features that you won't find on cheaper scopes. They are usually made for professional shooters or people in the competitive arena who are looking to always win.
These scopes are built for people who just can't accept anything less than perfection. The main difference in quality will be how it performs at long ranges. Scopes at a lesser price will be great for long distances, but won't be able to hold a candle with scopes at this price.
No matter how good a shooter is, they won't be able to compensate for some of the cheaper scopes. Scopes in this price range are also exceptional for hunting.
We have gone ahead and look at the top 10 long range rifle scopes that can be used in almost every situation. That means no matter what you are looking for, you will find it in one of these scopes. They will provide the accuracy and features you need in order to get this done.
Let's take a look at them one by one through in-depth reviews so you can find the one that works for your specific needs. Finding a scope is difficult, but it gets easier when your choices are narrowed down to 10 and you have detailed information about each one of them.
Top 10 Long Range Scopes For 2022
1. Athlon Optics Argos 6-24×50 FFP Rifle Scope
This is an entry-level scope with features you only find in high end scopes. You will be thrilled with the features and performance of the Athlon Optics Argos 6-24×50 FFP Rifle Scope. The build quality is excellent with aircraft aluminum being used to give you a premium look and finish. The optics are coated so you get the best image possible.
This optic was built with novices and experts alike. The reticule even shrinks and zooms with your target so you always get the best chance of firing off an accurate shot.
The best part about this scope is it is easy to adjust and was made for people to adjust it the way they like. For what you are getting the price is excellent. If you don't have any other option but to use this as your starting scope, you can't go better than having the Athlon Optics Argos 6-24x50 FFP Rifle Scope.
You will love this scope because he can bring it in almost every environment. It is weatherproof and waterproof. You won't have to worry about where you are when you need this thing to perform. It is also highly resistant to shocks so you don't have to worry about vibrations destroying your precious optics.
The aluminum is heat-treated so you get the best possible build quality and this gives it extra strength compared to other brands.
It is also Argon gas purged to get rid of any moisture in the cube and to ensure that it is thermally stable. You won't ever complain about the performance of this rifle scope. The glass is premium quality which means you won't be missing many shots.
The general consensus of people who have bought the scope is they are accurate to around 1000 yards so this scope is a bargain for what you are paying. The features all come together to ensure you get the best possible experience and accuracy.
All in all, the features this scope has make it a great deal for everyone looking for something to start off with. It isn't a high end scope by any means, but it is something that will give you your money's worth and allow you to get the feeling of hitting targets at up to a thousand yards with no sweat.
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2. Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II
The Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II is a premium quality scope for people who want nothing but the best. If you can afford it, this is absolutely one of the best choices you could make for a rifle scope. This feature-rich rifle scope is extremely accurate and a perfect for your tactical operations.
The sub-tensions will stay accurate because of the last etched reticle. When precision is what counts in a tactical situation, this is what you need to rely on. It is made to dial in long-range shots that are accurate and precise.
It also has many other important features that keep your shot perfect. You can even have tracking to help you see how many revolutions are on the turrets. It even has elevation adjustments to make sure you are always looking where you need to be.
Most optics won't have such amazing features, but this is a premium rifle scope and you will not regret getting it.
The price of this monster is over $1000, but you are getting your money's worth. With the 6X zoom, you will be able to hit all your targets no matter their range.
The premium glass ensures that you will have stunning image quality for all your targets. This is a step up from other optics since it goes above and beyond with the quality. It has aircraft grade aluminum which means the build quality is excellent.
It also is weatherproof and fog proof which means it performs in almost any condition. No matter where you are, this is a scope you will be able to depend on.
For people who put their lives on the line, this is the one for you.
It is for people who will spare no expense in getting the best.
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3. Vortex Viper PST II 5-25×50
This scope takes tactical features to new heights. It works for long ranges and short ranges. This is the scope you need no matter where you will encounter your enemy from. If you are hunting, it is a great way to always hit the target. There are a wealth of features that make this scope excellent.
The versatility of the Vortex Viper PST II 5-25x50 is unmatched by other scopes on the market. It almost stands out in a class of its own in terms of versatility and performance. For the price, you are getting an excellent scope that is going to perform when you need it the most.
The hold points on the reticle make this rifle scope easy to control. For the people who dial in their scope to compensate for the wind and bullet drop, the features of fiscal make it easy to control and you will have a hard time missing your target. The turrets are laser etched so you can be confident that they will be there when you need them.
Everything about this rifle scope screams professionalism for the people who want the best.
O-rings on the scope makes it fog proof and waterproof. You can take it into any environment whatsoever and know that it won't let you down. The rail system makes it easy to mount and install on almost any gun. The build quality of the glass also increases like transmission so you don't have to worry about how easier target will be to see.
There are 10 intensity levels so you can adjust the function of your scope with relative ease.
If you already have a great rifle that you spent a lot on, this scope provides a perfect complement to it.
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4. Nightforce Optics NXS
This scope is made with 6061-T6 Aircraft Grade Aluminum. It has excellent zero stop that makes it accurate and reliable. This is a scope you want in those tricky situations where your life will be on the line. What separates this rifle scope from others in its class is the optical integrity. It is unmatched in terms of how great the glass is and its accuracy.
Depending on how you define long-range, this rifle scope is a match for any other. You also get the speed built in with the scope.
The level of detail from the glass and the speed combined to give you the best possible experience. Whether you are hunting animals in the wild or you are in a combat situation, this is optical glass you want to trust.
Nightforce is known for quality control and build quality, and that is why you see the five-star reviews on most websites where this scope is for sale. You won't get much better in terms of build quality, so if your budget is high enough, this is the scope for you.
One major reason for the difference in price is this scope is tested to perfection.
Every aspect of it has to conform to the high standards set by Nightforce. It uses a small lithium-ion battery that is included, but it is quite efficient so you don't have to worry about that for a while.
Mounting this beast is also quite easy with the rings that come with it. You're able to put it on every rifle and it is a snap. If you're looking to take your shooting performance to the next level then this is a must buy.
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5. Vortex Optics Viper PST FFP
You will love this optic. This optic has been precision machined from a single solid block of aircraft grade aluminum. It gives you a great feel and offers elevation adjustments or you can shoot accurately in all directions.
Your shots are fast and precise with the amazing build quality and adjustments you can make with the turret. It also has features that make zeroing this scope out a breeze. You won't be spending a lot of time having to ensure that your gun and scope are in sync.
One of the biggest selling points of this scope is how easy it is to sync up and adjust. The glass is also made with the best quality possible. The multi-layer coatings ensure that light can easily go to the glass and you get the best vision possible. Light transmission really does stand out in this rifle and you will see the difference.
The color fidelity is unmatched and you can take the scope out knowing everything will look crisp and clear.
The chamber was purged with argon gas which ensures that there is no air in it. The O-ring seals also ensure that water can't go in it. This is the weatherproof and waterproof device.
In any condition, you can take the scope out with your rifle and have a lot of fun. The battery comes with it also ensures that you will get the maximum performance possible. The turret rotation is controlled by fiber-optic so everything is fast and precise.
This scope also features built in tools for siding the scope to ensure that everything lines up perfectly. You spent a lot of time making sure the scope is accurate, and that is why the Vortex Optics Viper PST FFP has features to do this. In a word, this is all the scope you will ever need, and at a great price too.
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6. Bushnell Elite Tactical G2DMR FFP Reticle Riflescope
The Bushnell Elite Tactical G2DMR FFP Reticle Riflescope features side focus parallax adjustment so you can always adjust things and have great vision in long ranges. It also has built in features adjust for when you need corrections. When you shooting during will be times, it can be a bit more difficult to hit the target.
This is an elite scope for people who want maximum performance and have the budget to do it. Long-range accuracy on this machine is excellent so you never have to worry about missing a shot.
The multi-coated surface also allows tremendous like transmission so you get the best vision possible. The optics are crisp and clear and you won't have to worry about not seeing your target up close and personal.
The tube has been argon purged so you can rest easy knowing there is nothing inside that can cause problems with image quality. The adjustability also makes it easy whether you are shooting at targets that are close up or far away.
It also features barrier technology with a lens coating that molecularly bonds to the glass and repels water, oil, and other debris while also preventing scratches. This technology puts it on another level when it comes to value for money. It also features a hammer that makes adjusting magnification fast and easy.
It excels at long ranges while not sacrificing short range performance. This is the rifle scope for professionals.
While there is some misconception about the scope been illuminated, it is definitely not. However, it makes up for this by being a quality rifle scope that performs in all weather conditions and has features to make it easy for you to adjust the zoom level quickly.
It is also a very beautiful scope inside and out.
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7. Vortex Optics Diamondback 6-24x50mm FFP
This scope stands at the intersection of value and performance. It is perfect for someone who is just getting started but does not have the necessary funds to purchase a more expensive rifle scope. This scope delivers an amazing array of features, and when you couple that with the performance it cannot be beaten.
The multi-coated lens means you get the best picture quality. Light can go through the scope really easily and everything is beautiful and crisp.
Despite the affordable price, this scope delivers with 4X zoom and premium components that make it easy for you to operate in almost any condition. It has all the tools and features you need for precise long-range shooting as well. Another benefit is the magnification happens very smoothly.
In terms of build quality, it is exceptional on this device. You also have quality O-rings and the chamber has been nitrogen purged. This means you have a guarantee of it being waterproof and weatherproof in general. You can take this scope into almost any conditions and it is guaranteed to perform accurately.
The build quality allows it to be shockproof so you don't have to worry about the recall damaging your scope. It is the perfect scope to bring into a tactical situation, despite being such an affordable price.
The pricing on this is really amazing for what you are getting. Many people are amazed when they realize how great of value they are getting. You would be amazed at how easy this device is to work with.
Imagine being able to have high performance in every weather condition. Your eyes will thank you for buying this rifle scope.
Your wallet will also thank you.
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8. Nikon Black X1000 6-24x50mm SFP Riflescope
This rifle scope has multilayer coatings that allow all the surfaces to transmit light in a perfect way. This means the brightness and contrast of what you are looking at is always on point. The illuminated reticle is etched in the glass and you can see it in the second focal plane.
There are so many premium features on this scope that you would think it's going to cost more than $1000. However, it is actually a premium scope in an affordable package.
The side focus allows you to adjust things with relative ease. You don't need to change your shooting position while you are adjusting it. This is because the knob is located on the side of the scope instead of on top. Did I mention how crisp and clear the image is? This is because it is made with high quality glass that has beautiful coatings on top.
The 4X optical zoom is no slouch either. It is perfect for short to mid ranges. You also have precise elevation control so you never need to worry about your firing position. You have a lot of corrections that can be made in the position of the sites as well. The best feature of this scope is how ergonomic it is.
Your eyes will never get tired because of looking into this scope for too long. You get to relax comfortably in every firing position and have the time of your life.
You don't even have to worry about your eyes when you are firing. It is comfortable and absorbs the recoil with ease. The best part about this scope is its rugged build quality. It is shockproof and weatherproof. You can take it into almost any conditions you want, and it will perform as expected.
The optics are also built with coatings to allow it to perform when the weather is less than ideal. This is important for professionals who might not have perfect situations all the time.
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9. Burris Optics XTR II 5-25x50mm Riflescope
A premium optic for even the most seasoned shooters. It has all the features you need to identify your target, and the precision needed to never miss your shot. You can adjust the windage and elevation using easy to understand knobs. It is a scope that is priced for professionals but is so user-friendly that a beginner could pick it up and use it.
This optic features everything you need to shoot at long distances.
The optic is also clear and bright so you will be shooting in every light condition. The high-grade glass contributes to the quality of the sights. For people in the competitive shooting arena, this optic makes the perfect thing to bring with you if you want to win. It has a lot of features that competitive shooters will find handy in dominating every competition.
The precision allows you to maneuver and shoot with perfect accuracy. No matter what you are trying to achieve, this optic is perfect for you.
You will be shooting over 500 yards quite easily with this scope. It is made for people who want the best. You will enjoy how firm and accurate this scope is. It is for people who want and need to shoot at over 1000 yards. One thing you will love is the build quality is exceptional.
It is made with aircraft grade aluminum that has been precision machined to the highest quality.
This scope also features premium glass that has coatings to make sure the light can go through it a lot easier. Everything on this scope is designed to help the professional shooter, but has controls that are easy to master for almost everyone.
It is the perfect combination of complexity and quality.
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Conclusion
These scopes are all really great. To be honest, you won't go wrong with which ever one you choose. However, there is one that will give you more bang for your buck than the others. It is affordable while also being something you can use in almost every condition. It is also great for people who are looking to start out and also professionals that are in dangerous situations and need something to protect them.
The Vortex Optics Diamondback 6-24x50mm FFP is going to be the best value of all the scopes on the list.
You won't find a better deal than what you see here. The biggest reason for this choice is the fact that it is only $399 at the time of this review, but it has a lot of features that make it comparable to some scopes that are $1000.
You would think that you are dreaming, but it is actually that good of a scope. It has amazing performance for the price and for someone who is starting out, it represents the best bargain of all the 10 scopes that were reviewed.
Check it out at here. You won't regret it as this scope is one that you will be using for a long time.