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Magnification: 4–16xObjective Lens: 44mmTube Diameter: 30mmReticle: EBR-2C (MOA) FFPAdjustment: 0.25 MOA per clickWeight: 23 ozSharp, edge-to-edge glass clarityTactile, audible turret clicksFFP reticle ideal for range estimationExcellent zero retentionSlight chromatic aberration at max powerNo illumination feature
Magnification: 5–25xObjective Lens: 56mmReticle: VPR MIL / MOA FFPTube: 34mmAdjustment: 0.1 MIL per clickWeight: 39.2 ozExceptional turret feedbackCrystal-clear glass, rivaling higher-end opticsRugged constructionZero-stop system includedHeavier than averageSlight tunnel vision at 5x
Magnification: 6–24xObjective: 50mmTube: 30mmReticle: APLR2 MOA FFPClick Value: 0.25 MOAWeight: 29 ozIlluminated reticleExcellent tracking performanceRugged one-piece tubeSlight edge blurring at full powerIllumination not very bright in daylight
Magnification: 3.6–18xObjective: 44mmTube: 35mmReticle: Tremor 3 / PR2-MILWeight: 26 ozCrystal-clear HD glassLightweight for its classExcellent tracking consistencyLifetime warrantyPremium pricingLimited field of view at 18x
Magnification: 3–18xObjective: 50mmTube: 30mmReticle: ACSS Athena BPR-MIL FFPClick Value: 0.1 MILWeight: 31.4 ozExcellent reticle designSmooth zoom ringRugged build qualitySlight distortion at edge at high magHeavy compared to peers
Magnification Range: 4–16x or 5–25x offers versatility for both target ID and precision aiming.First Focal Plane (FFP): Reticle subtensions stay accurate at all magnifications—vital for holdovers.Turret Accuracy: Look for 0.1 MIL or ¼ MOA click values with repeatable tracking.Parallax Adjustment: Side focus down to 10–25 yards allows precise target clarity at range.Glass Quality: ED or HD glass minimizes color fringing and distortion.Durability: Choose scopes tested for recoil, weatherproofing, and zero retention.Eye Relief: At least 3.5 inches ensures comfort with heavy calibers like .308 or 6.5 Creedmoor.
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Best Scope for 600 Yards: Precision Optics for Mid-Range Marksmen
When I started testing riflescopes for mid-range shooting, I realized that hitting targets at 600 yards demands a blend of optical clarity, precise turrets, consistent tracking, and comfortable eye relief. In this comprehensive review, I’ll guide you through the best scope for 600 yards shooting—covering five outstanding optics that deliver real-world performance for hunters, tactical shooters, and precision enthusiasts.
🏆 Top Product List
🔍 Detailed Reviews
1. Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 4-16x44 FFP Riflescope
The Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 4-16x44 FFP is one of the most balanced mid-range scopes I’ve tested for 600-yard shooting. It blends affordability, durability, and optical clarity into one rock-solid platform.
Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
At 600 yards, the EBR-2C reticle gives you precise holdovers. The glass is crisp even in dusk lighting, though slight color fringing appears at the periphery on 16x.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
Eye relief averages 3.9 inches—comfortable for .308 or 6.5 Creedmoor rifles. The eye box is generous at mid-power, narrowing only slightly at 16x.
Durability:
I mounted it on my Ruger Precision Rifle with a 20 MOA base and fired over 400 rounds of 140gr 6.5 Creedmoor—zero never shifted.
Elevation & Windage Knobs:
Each click is tactile and repeatable. I ran a “box test” at 100 yards and the tracking was dead-on.
Magnification & Parallax:
Side parallax adjusts from 10 yards to infinity, perfect for fine-tuning focus at 600 yards.
Mounting & Accessories:
Mounted easily using 30mm Vortex Pro Series rings; the barrel clearance was perfect.
Verdict:
A budget-friendly tactical performer that excels in clarity and reliability for 600-yard work.
2. Arken Optics EP5 5-25x56 FFP
The Arken EP5 5-25x56 offers premium-grade performance at a surprisingly affordable price. It’s one of my favorite long-range scopes that easily adapts for 600-yard targets with extreme precision.
Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
The Japanese ED glass delivers stunning resolution. The VPR reticle provides clean subtensions for precise holdovers at distance.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
Eye relief sits around 3.4 inches—adequate, though a bit tighter at high magnification. The eye box is forgiving at 10–15x.
Durability:
I tested it on an AR-10 with .308 168gr ammo. After 250 rounds, it maintained zero flawlessly.
Elevation & Windage Knobs:
The turrets feel crisp, with 0.1 MIL tracking accuracy verified through box testing.
Magnification & Parallax:
Focus remains sharp up to 20x; parallax adjustment is intuitive and holds steady.
Mounting & Accessories:
I used Arken’s own 34mm rings—installation was simple, though the scope’s size required careful rail positioning.
Verdict:
An incredible value scope that performs like a $1500 optic, making it a top pick for serious marksmen.
3. Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24x50 FFP
If you’re looking for the best scope for 600 yards that balances cost and capability, the Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 delivers tremendous optical performance and turret precision.
Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
Athlon’s multi-coated glass is bright, delivering clarity up to 600 yards even in fading light. The reticle’s fine lines aid in long-range precision.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
A comfortable 3.3 inches of eye relief; eye box remains workable even at 24x.
Durability:
Mounted on a 6.5 Creedmoor Ruger American Predator; zero held tight through 350 rounds.
Elevation & Windage Knobs:
Knobs are tactile and accurate. After repeated adjustments, I noted consistent return-to-zero.
Magnification & Parallax:
Smooth magnification ring with adjustable parallax down to 10 yards.
Verdict:
A feature-rich optic ideal for shooters on a mid-level budget seeking reliable precision beyond 500 yards.
4. Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18x44mm FFP
Leupold’s Mark 5HD represents top-tier American craftsmanship—lightweight, bombproof, and optically superior. It’s one of the finest precision optics for serious 600-yard shooters.
Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
This is pure optical excellence—edge-to-edge resolution and superior color fidelity. The PR2-MIL reticle is clean and intuitive.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
Ample 3.6–3.8 inches of relief; eye box is comfortable and fast for target reacquisition.
Durability:
I used it on a .308 Tikka T3x—handled recoil and rough field use without a single issue.
Elevation & Windage Knobs:
The M5C3 turrets are mechanical perfection: smooth, audible, and dead-accurate.
Verdict:
For competitive shooters or long-range hunters, the Mark 5HD is an elite performer.
5. Primary Arms SLX 3-18x50mm FFP Gen II
The Primary Arms SLX 3-18x50 FFP Gen II combines practical features with surprising accuracy. I found it to be one of the best affordable tactical scopes for consistent 600-yard precision.
Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
Glass is crisp with minimal chromatic aberration. The ACSS reticle simplifies ranging and wind holds.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
Consistent 3.5-inch eye relief with a decent eye box at 10–15x.
Durability:
Mounted on an AR-10 platform—held zero after 300 rounds of 168gr BTHP loads.
Elevation & Windage Knobs:
Positive clicks with reliable tracking; zero reset was simple.
Verdict:
A reliable FFP scope offering long-range precision at a price any marksman can respect.
🧭 How to Choose the Right Scope for 600 Yards
When selecting a scope for mid-range precision (around 600 yards), prioritize:
❓ FAQs
1. What magnification do I need for 600-yard shooting?
Ideally 10–16x for most shooters. Too much magnification can reduce field of view and light transmission.
2. Is FFP better than SFP for 600 yards?
Yes—FFP reticles maintain accurate subtensions at any power, making range corrections faster.
3. What caliber pairs best with these scopes?
6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Winchester, and .223 Rem are excellent for this distance.
4. Should I use a 20 MOA mount for 600 yards?
Yes, it provides extra elevation adjustment room for longer shots.
5. What’s the ideal reticle for 600-yard accuracy?
MIL or MOA hash-style reticles like Vortex EBR-2C or Primary Arms ACSS work best.
6. Can I use these scopes for hunting and competition?
Absolutely—many listed scopes bridge both worlds effectively.
🏁 Conclusion
Finding the best scope for 600 yards means striking the right balance between clarity, precision, and reliability.
For me, the Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-16x44 FFP stands out as the best all-rounder for its optical performance and price.
The Leupold Mark 5HD takes the crown for professionals demanding perfection, while Arken EP5 dominates value in the long-range class.
Whether you’re ringing steel or pursuing long-range whitetails, these scopes deliver repeatable precision shot after shot.
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