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Magnification: 4–16xObjective Lens: 44mmTube Diameter: 30mmReticle: EBR-2C (First Focal Plane)Adjustment Value: 0.1 MIL / 1/4 MOAWeight: 23.1 ozParallax: 20 yards to infinityRazor-sharp edge-to-edge clarityCrisp turret clicks and tracking precisionExcellent value under $500Slight tunnel vision at low magnificationNon-illuminated reticle
Magnification: 4–16xObjective: 50mmTube: 34mmReticle: VPR MIL FFPAdjustment: 0.1 MIL per clickWeight: 35.6 ozZero Stop: YesMassive adjustment range (32 MIL)Glass comparable to mid-tier tactical opticsExcellent turret feelSlightly heavyIllumination is dim under bright sunlight
Magnification: 3–18xObjective: 50mmTube: 30mmReticle: ACSS Apollo (FFP)Adjustment: 0.1 MILWeight: 28.2 ozParallax: Side adjustableACSS reticle makes 400-yard shots intuitiveExcellent build qualityBright image even at duskSlightly stiff magnification ringEye box tight above 15x
Magnification: 6–24xObjective: 50mmTube: 30mmReticle: APLR2 FFP IR MILWeight: 30.3 ozAdjustment: 0.1 MILIlluminated reticle for low-light shootingConsistent turret trackingLifetime warrantySlight color fringing at max zoomEye relief shortens at high power
Magnification: 4.5–14xObjective: 40mmTube: 1 inchReticle: Duplex or Wind-PlexWeight: 13.5 ozWaterproof/Fogproof: YesCrystal-clear optics with HD edge definitionUltra-lightweightMade in the USA with lifetime guaranteeNot FFPLacks parallax adjustment
Magnification Range: 4–16x or 6–24x provides enough zoom to see small targets clearly while keeping a broad field of view.Reticle Type: FFP (First Focal Plane) is preferred for accurate holdovers at variable magnifications.Glass Quality: Fully multi-coated lenses reduce glare and enhance brightness for clear sight pictures.Turret Precision: Reliable tracking and repeatable zero-stop systems ensure accurate dialing.Durability: Look for nitrogen-purged, shockproof tubes and high-quality anodized finishes.Eye Relief: A comfortable 3.5–4 inches prevents scope bite, especially on hard-recoiling rifles.
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Best Scope for 400 Yards: Precision Shooting Made Simple
Choosing the best scope for 400 yards can be the difference between a confident, repeatable shot and a frustrating miss. At this range, your optic needs to combine precision tracking, reliable clarity, and sufficient magnification — typically in the 4–16x to 6–24x range — while maintaining durability under recoil and environmental stress.
As someone who regularly shoots steel at 400 yards with both .308 Winchester and 6.5 Creedmoor platforms, I’ve tested dozens of scopes in this performance range. Below are my top picks, each chosen for optical performance, turret accuracy, and overall user experience.
🏆 Top Product List
Detailed Reviews
1. Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 4-16x44 FFP
The Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-16x44 FFP is my favorite all-around optic for shooters looking to stretch their legs to 400 yards without breaking the bank.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
The glass clarity on this scope far exceeds expectations for its price class. Through my .308 Win bolt-action (Remington 700 with a 20 MOA mount), targets at 400 yards appeared with sharp contrast even under overcast skies. The FFP reticle scales perfectly, and during my “box test,” turret tracking remained spot-on with 0.1 MIL accuracy per click.
Eye relief is comfortable at roughly 3.8 inches, and the eye box remains forgiving across magnification levels. The build feels solid, featuring aircraft-grade aluminum and a hard anodized finish. After over 500 rounds, zero retention was flawless.
Verdict:
An ideal optic for entry-level to mid-range shooters who need precision without overpaying.
2. Arken Optics SH4 GEN2 4-16X50 FFP
The Arken SH4 GEN2 brings features usually found in $1,000+ optics into the sub-$500 tier.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Mounted on my AR-10 (.308 Win), the SH4 GEN2 was a joy to use. Zeroing at 100 yards took just 5 shots, and the zero stop feature made repeatable returns effortless. At 400 yards, clarity remained vivid with excellent color rendition and minimal chromatic aberration.
Turrets feel mechanical and precise, with audible clicks. I also ran a tracking test from 0–10 MIL up/down and achieved near-perfect repeatability.
Verdict:
Built for shooters who demand tactical precision and long-range adjustment.
3. Primary Arms SLX 3-18x50mm FFP Gen II
The Primary Arms SLX 3-18x50mm FFP Gen II is a precision tool for shooters who love advanced reticle design. Its ACSS Apollo reticle simplifies holdovers for wind and elevation at 400 yards and beyond.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Testing it on a 6.5 Creedmoor Ruger Precision Rifle, I could consistently hit 6-inch steel plates at 400 yards with ease. The reticle’s intuitive design eliminated the need for external dope sheets. Eye relief is about 3.5 inches, and the glass is clear enough to distinguish targets under mixed lighting.
Verdict:
Perfect for shooters who want a smart reticle and mid-range capability.
4. Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 FFP
Athlon’s Argos BTR GEN2 is a powerhouse for precision shooters working within a budget.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
I mounted this scope on a Savage 110 Tactical (.308 Win) using 30mm Vortex Precision Rings. Zeroing took under 10 rounds, and even after 300 rounds, it held zero reliably. Glass clarity is impressive for the price, and the illuminated reticle helps in shadowed environments.
Verdict:
A versatile, feature-packed scope for long-range hunters and precision shooters.
5. Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x40
The Leupold VX-3HD is a time-tested optic with Leupold’s legendary reliability and optical performance.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
While it lacks tactical bells and whistles, this Leupold is incredibly clear and bright. It excels in hunting applications where 400-yard precision matters. I used it on a Tikka T3x .270 and found that sighting-in was effortless — just three rounds to zero.
Verdict:
For hunters seeking optical excellence and dependability, this is hard to beat.
How to Choose the Right Scope for 400 Yards
When selecting a scope for 400-yard engagements, consider the following:
FAQs
1. What magnification is best for 400 yards?
A 4–16x or 6–24x magnification range is ideal — it offers enough zoom for precise shots while keeping a broad field of view.
2. Is FFP better than SFP for 400 yards?
Yes, an FFP reticle maintains accurate subtensions across magnifications, which is crucial for holdovers at 400 yards.
3. Do I need parallax adjustment at 400 yards?
Absolutely. Adjustable parallax ensures your reticle stays accurate at long distances, minimizing aiming error.
4. Which caliber is best suited for 400-yard shooting?
.308 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, and .223/5.56 with heavy match bullets all perform well at this range.
5. What’s the most budget-friendly scope for 400 yards?
The Vortex Diamondback Tactical and Arken SH4 GEN2 deliver exceptional performance under $500.
6. Can I use a hunting scope for 400-yard target shooting?
Yes, as long as the scope offers sufficient magnification and reliable turrets. Leupold VX-3HD is a great example.
7. Do I need a 30mm or 34mm tube?
A 30mm tube is adequate for most users, but 34mm provides more elevation travel for long-range precision.
Conclusion
At the 400-yard mark, your scope must strike a perfect balance between clarity, turret precision, and durability. The Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-16x44 FFP offers the best all-around value, while the Arken SH4 GEN2 delivers tactical features at a competitive price. For hunters, the Leupold VX-3HD provides unbeatable clarity in a lightweight package.
Each of these optics has been tested in real-world conditions — rain, recoil, and heat — and they’ve proven reliable shot after shot. Whether you’re tuning your rifle for long-range precision or fine-tuning your holdovers for hunting, investing in one of these scopes will elevate your 400-yard shooting experience.
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