When it comes to long-range shooting, finding the best scope for 800 yards can make all the difference between a clean hit and a frustrating miss.
Over the past few years, I’ve tested numerous optics on my bolt-action .308 Win and AR-10 platforms, and through trial, error, and plenty of spent brass, I’ve narrowed down the best performers for this demanding distance.
Whether you’re into tactical precision shooting, long-range hunting, or just pushing your skills to the next level, the following list offers options that combine crystal-clear glass, reliable tracking, and rock-solid construction.
🏆 Top Product List
Here’s a quick look at my top recommendations before we dive into the detailed reviews:
Detailed Reviews
1. NightForce ATACR 5-25x56 F1
The NightForce ATACR 5-25x56 F1 is one of the most revered optics among professional marksmen, competitive shooters, and military snipers alike. It’s built for absolute precision at extreme distances, and at 800 yards, it’s practically in its comfort zone.
Product Specs
Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP) Adjustment: 0.1 MRAD or ¼ MOA per click Pros
Exceptional optical clarity and edge-to-edge sharpness Extremely durable, built like a tank True and repeatable turret tracking Illuminated reticle with daylight visibility Cons
Expensive (but worth every cent) Slightly heavy for lightweight setups Glass Clarity & Reticle
The ED glass is outstanding—color fidelity and contrast are top-tier. The FFP reticle scales perfectly with magnification, making holdovers precise.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Eye relief is generous at 3.5 inches. The eye box is forgiving even at 25x, making target acquisition smooth.
Durability
I’ve run this on a .300 Win Mag through rain, cold, and heat—never lost zero after 600+ rounds.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
NightForce’s turrets are legendary—positive, audible, and crisp. The ZeroStop feature works flawlessly.
Magnification & Parallax
Parallax adjustment from 45 yards to infinity is spot-on, and magnification changes are silky smooth.
Verdict
If you want the absolute best scope for 800 yards with uncompromising precision, this is it.
2. Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27x56 FFP
The Vortex Razor HD Gen II stands as a legend in long-range shooting circles for its ruggedness and consistent accuracy.
Product Specs
Pros
Military-grade durability Cons
Performance
Mounted on my 6.5 Creedmoor bolt gun, I achieved sub-MOA groups out to 1,000 yards. The scope tracked perfectly through box tests and returned to zero every time.
Customer Discussions
Reddit’s long-range forums consistently praise the Razor Gen II for its reliability and optical performance—many call it the “poor man’s Schmidt & Bender.”
Verdict
It’s one of the finest American-engineered optics available today for shooters who want dependability and clarity at 800+ yards.
3. Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56 M5C3 FFP
Leupold’s Mark 5HD line represents the pinnacle of American optical engineering, designed specifically for long-range tactical precision.
Product Specs
Pros
Ultra-lightweight compared to competitors Fantastic turret precision Cons
Illumination could be brighter in daylight Glass & Performance
The Twilight Max HD light management system makes shooting at dusk incredibly clear. Edge sharpness rivals scopes twice the cost.
Mounting Experience
I mounted this on a Tikka T3x CTR using 35mm rings—zeroed in 5 shots and held zero after 400 rounds of .308 Win.
Verdict
A lightweight, premium-tier optic that competes with scopes costing far more.
4. Arken Optics EP5 5-25x56 FFP
The Arken EP5 5-25x56 FFP delivers incredible long-range performance at a price point that’s hard to believe.
Product Specs
Pros
Exceptional value for money Cons
Minor parallax stiffness at first use My Experience
Mounted on my Ruger Precision Rifle, it zeroed within six shots and maintained tracking accuracy across a 20-MOA base. It held zero perfectly through 500 rounds of 6.5 Creedmoor.
Verdict
If you’re on a mid-range budget but demand pro-level performance, this is the best scope for 800 yards under $700.
5. Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 8-34x56 FFP
Athlon’s Argos BTR GEN2 8-34x56 offers extraordinary zoom and great optical clarity for long-range shooting.
Product Specs
Pros
Superb magnification range Clear glass for its class Cons
Slight chromatic aberration at 34x Performance Notes
Perfect for target shooters who want to spot bullet holes at 800 yards without spotting scopes.
Verdict
For its price, it’s nearly unbeatable in magnification and clarity balance.
6. Zeiss Conquest V4 4-16x44
Zeiss brings European optical excellence to long-range shooting with the Conquest V4 4-16x44, offering immaculate light transmission and pristine clarity.
Product Specs
Pros
Exceptional glass quality Cons
SFP may not suit tactical shooters Verdict
Ideal for hunters who shoot at long range but value lighter setups.
🔍 How to Choose the Right Scope for 800 Yards
Selecting the right optic depends on your platform, ammo, and purpose. Here’s what matters most:
Magnification: Look for 5–25x or higher for 800 yards. Focal Plane: FFP is preferred for precision shooting, as the reticle scales with zoom. Turret Precision: 0.1 MRAD or ¼ MOA clicks are ideal for fine adjustments. Parallax Adjustment: Must go to infinity for accurate long-range focus. Glass Quality: ED or HD glass ensures clarity at high magnification. Durability: Choose aircraft-grade aluminum bodies with water/fog/shock resistance. ❓ FAQs
1. What magnification is best for shooting 800 yards?
Typically 5–25x or 6–24x gives enough zoom and field of view balance.
2. Do I need an FFP scope for 800 yards?
Yes, if you’re making holdover shots, FFP ensures reticle consistency across magnification.
3. How important is parallax adjustment?
Crucial. At 800 yards, even slight parallax errors can shift impact points by inches.
4. Which reticle type works best?
MRAD or MOA hash reticles offer precise holdovers and corrections.
5. What’s the average cost for a reliable long-range scope?
Expect to spend $600–$3,000 depending on optical quality and turret precision.
🏁 Conclusion
After countless hours at the range, I can confidently say that the best scope for 800 yards combines premium glass, precise turret tracking, and robust build quality. The NightForce ATACR takes the crown for elite precision, while the Arken EP5 offers unbeatable value. Whichever route you go, each scope on this list will elevate your long-range accuracy and make every shot at 800 yards a thrill.