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Magnification: 5-25xObjective Lens: 56mmTube Diameter: 34mmFocal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)Reticle: VPR MILWeight: 39 ozAdjustment Click: 0.1 MILCrisp glass with great edge-to-edge clarityMassive elevation and windage rangeStrong tracking and zero retentionExcellent value under $600Slightly heavyParallax knob feels stiff when new
Magnification: 5-25xObjective Lens: 50mmFocal Plane: First Focal PlaneReticle: EBR-2C (MOA/MRAD)Tube: 30mmAdjustment Value: 0.1 MRADBright glass and excellent contrastSmooth turret mechanicsLifetime warrantySlight tunnel vision at 5xHeavy for its class
Magnification: 6-24xObjective: 50mmFocal Plane: FFPReticle: APLR2 MOAWeight: 30.3 ozAffordable without compromiseReticle scales perfectly with magnificationSmooth parallax controlSlight chromatic aberration at max zoomTurret clicks could be crisper
Magnification: 3.6-18xObjective: 44mmFocal Plane: FFPReticle: TMRTube Diameter: 35mmWeight: 26 ozRazor-sharp glass qualityLightest in its classExcellent tactile turret feedbackPremium priceLimited field of view at high magnification
Magnification: 3-18xObjective Lens: 50mmFocal Plane: FFPReticle: ACSS Athena BPR MILTube: 30mmIntuitive ACSS reticle for holdoversSolid constructionAffordable FFP designSlight vignetting at edge clarityWeight is moderate
Magnification: 4-16x or higher ensures target clarity without image distortion.Focal Plane: FFP reticles are ideal for consistent holdovers at variable zooms.Turret Accuracy: Choose scopes with reliable 0.1 MIL or ¼ MOA click values.Glass Quality: Fully multi-coated lenses enhance light transmission and edge clarity.Parallax Adjustment: Essential for maintaining accuracy beyond 300 yards.Durability: Shockproof, nitrogen-purged tubes are critical for holding zero.
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Best Scope for 500 Yards: Precision Picks for Medium-Range Shooting
Finding the best scope for 500 yards can be a game-changer for shooters aiming to balance magnification, clarity, and precision. At this distance, bullet drop, wind drift, and optical distortion all play a crucial role. I’ve tested a wide range of scopes across hunting rifles, AR platforms, and precision bolt-actions, and in this guide, I’ll break down the best-performing optics designed to deliver consistent hits at 500 yards.
Top Product List
Here’s a quick overview of my top picks before diving into the detailed reviews:
Detailed Reviews
1. Arken Optics EP5 5-25X56 Rifle Scope FFP
The Arken EP5 5-25x56 is one of my favorite affordable long-range optics that comfortably bridges medium and long-range performance. Built on a 34mm tube, it provides excellent adjustment range and clarity for precision shooting.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
The Japanese ED glass delivers impressive color fidelity and minimal chromatic aberration. The VPR MIL reticle offers fine subtensions for precise holds.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
Generous 3.4 inches of eye relief and a forgiving eye box make target acquisition smooth at all magnifications.
Durability:
This scope endured over 400 rounds on my .308 Win AR-10 platform with no zero shift — a strong indicator of rugged internals.
Elevation & Windage Knobs:
The tactile 0.1 MIL clicks are positive and audible. It passed my box test flawlessly.
Magnification & Parallax:
The 5-25x range covers everything from 200 to 1,000 yards. The parallax adjustment remains accurate from 25 yards to infinity.
Mounting & Accessories:
I used a 20 MOA one-piece mount; the barrel clearance was perfect.
My Experience:
After zeroing at 100 yards with 168gr .308 Win, I stretched hits consistently at 500 and 800 yards. The zero stop was easy to configure.
Customer Feedback:
Reddit shooters often call this the “best sub-$600 FFP scope” for long-range precision.
Verdict:
Exceptional value for its glass and turret precision — a true budget powerhouse.
2. Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50 FFP
Vortex’s Viper PST Gen II is a legend among precision shooters. It delivers elite-level performance for mid- to long-range shots, making it a top contender for 500-yard shooting.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
The image remains crisp even in low light. The illuminated reticle is bright and easy to use during dawn hunts.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
Approximately 3.4 inches of comfortable eye relief; the eye box is slightly tighter at full zoom.
Durability:
I’ve used mine in light rain and dusty environments — zero stayed intact after 500 rounds.
Elevation & Windage Knobs:
Distinct, sharp clicks and accurate tracking. The zero stop system is easy to set.
Magnification & Parallax:
The 5-25x range allows detailed target visibility; parallax adjustment was spot-on during my 500-yard tests.
Mounting & Accessories:
Mounted with Vortex Precision rings on a Remington 700 .308. Zeroed within 6 shots.
My Experience:
This scope’s tracking reliability and illumination quality make it my go-to for PRS-style matches.
Customer Feedback:
On forums like Sniper’s Hide, users consistently praise its durability and repeatable tracking.
Verdict:
Reliable, precise, and backed by Vortex’s unbeatable warranty.
3. Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 FFP
Athlon delivers top-tier features at an entry-level price point with the Argos BTR Gen2. It’s particularly suited for mid-range shooting and target practice up to 800 yards.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
Better-than-expected clarity for its price. The illuminated APLR2 reticle is functional in both daylight and dusk.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
3.3 inches of eye relief with a forgiving eye box.
Durability:
Held zero after 300 rounds on my 6.5 Creedmoor rifle.
Elevation & Windage Knobs:
Good tracking; audible clicks make adjustments easy.
Magnification & Parallax:
Clean transition through the zoom range, with accurate parallax control.
My Experience:
I was able to engage 6-inch steel plates at 500 yards with consistent hits after zeroing in under 10 rounds.
Customer Feedback:
Highly rated among Reddit and AR15.com users for its price-to-performance ratio.
Verdict:
Perfect choice for new long-range shooters looking to master 500-yard shooting.
4. Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18x44mm M5C3 FFP Riflescope
The Mark 5HD defines professional precision. Designed for elite marksmen and tactical shooters, it’s incredibly light yet optically flawless.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
Leupold’s Twilight Max HD system enhances low-light contrast, ideal for hunting in dawn/dusk scenarios.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
Generous and stable, perfect for magnum calibers.
Durability:
Shockproof, fogproof, and waterproof; used in competition and harsh field testing.
My Experience:
Mounted on a 6.5 Creedmoor bolt-action, I consistently achieved 0.5 MOA groups at 500 yards.
Customer Feedback:
Shooters on SnipersHide rave about its optical superiority and repeatability.
Verdict:
For serious long-range competitors or hunters, this is an investment in precision.
5. Primary Arms SLX 3-18x50mm FFP Gen II Rifle Scope
The SLX Gen II combines advanced reticle technology with durable construction at a mid-range price. It’s ideal for shooters transitioning from short-range optics to precision work.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
The ACSS reticle is one of the most intuitive systems for wind and drop compensation I’ve tested.
My Experience:
I achieved excellent results on my .223 Wylde DMR at 500 yards; the reticle made holdovers effortless.
Verdict:
A well-rounded, versatile scope that bridges tactical and hunting use perfectly.
How to Choose the Right Scope for 500 Yards
When selecting a scope for 500-yard precision, here’s what I recommend prioritizing:
FAQs
1. What magnification do I need for 500 yards?
A 4-16x or 5-25x scope provides sufficient zoom without excessive mirage distortion.
2. Should I choose FFP or SFP for 500 yards?
FFP is better for consistent reticle subtensions across magnification levels.
3. What’s the best caliber for 500-yard shooting?
Popular options include .308 Win, 6.5 Creedmoor, and .223 Wylde.
4. How important is parallax at 500 yards?
Very important — adjustable parallax ensures reticle and target alignment at various distances.
5. What mounts should I use?
A 20 MOA one-piece mount helps extend elevation range for longer distances.
6. Can budget scopes perform well at 500 yards?
Yes — models like the Arken EP5 and Athlon Argos BTR Gen2 offer remarkable value.
Conclusion
Choosing the best scope for 500 yards depends on your platform, budget, and precision expectations. For most shooters, the Arken EP5 and Vortex Viper PST Gen II hit the sweet spot between affordability and performance. Meanwhile, high-end users will find unmatched refinement in the Leupold Mark 5HD. No matter your choice, mastering fundamentals like zeroing, parallax adjustment, and reticle use will make all the difference at 500 yards.
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