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Magnification: 1.5–4xObjective Lens: 20mmTube Diameter: 1 inchEye Relief: 3.7–4.2 inchesReticle: DuplexWeight: 9.6 ozWaterproof/Fogproof/ShockproofExcellent light transmissionLightweight and compact designLong, forgiving eye reliefLimited zoom range for long shotsNon-illuminated reticle
Magnification: 3–9xObjective Lens: 40mmTube: 1 inchReticle: Ballistic PlexEye Relief: 3.1–3.4 inchesDurable steel-on-steel turret constructionExcellent edge-to-edge sharpnessAffordable for the qualitySlightly short eye relief for heavy slug recoilNo parallax adjustment
Magnification: 3–9xObjective Lens: 40mmReticle: Dead-Hold BDC (MOA)Eye Relief: 3.8–4.4 inchesTube Diameter: 1 inchWeight: 15 ozExceptional eye reliefBright, clear glass with BDC reticleLifetime warrantySlightly bulky for shotgun useHeavier than others on this list
Magnification: 3–9xObjective Lens: 40mmEye Relief: 3.3 inchesMulti-coated opticsWeight: 13 ozSuperb brightness in dim lightAffordableSimple and ruggedEye box is slightly tight at higher magnificationBasic reticle design
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Best Scope for 870 Slug Gun – Top Optics for Accuracy and Durability
When it comes to hunting with a slug gun, precision optics can make all the difference. The best scope for 870 slug gun should handle heavy recoil, offer generous eye relief, and provide clear glass for shots up to 150 yards. I’ve spent years testing scopes on my Remington 870 using both 12-gauge and 20-gauge saboted slugs, and in this guide, I’ll share my top picks for maximizing your shotgun’s accuracy and field performance.
🏆 Top Product List
Here are my recommended scopes for the Remington 870 slug gun:
Each of these models is built to handle the heavy recoil and limited range typical of a slug gun, while maintaining crisp optics and rugged performance in the field.
🔍 Detailed Reviews
1. Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4x20mm Riflescope
The Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4x20mm is my top pick for a Remington 870 slug gun due to its compact build, superb glass, and recoil resilience.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
The glass clarity is superb, with minimal chromatic aberration and edge distortion. The reticle remains visible even in low light. Eye relief is generous — I could maintain a full sight picture even when shooting heavy 12-gauge sabots.
Durability-wise, this Leupold takes a beating. I’ve used it on rainy Midwest whitetail hunts, and it’s held zero after more than 300 rounds of Brenneke and Hornady SST slugs.
Turrets track reliably with tactile clicks. I prefer the low-profile capped turrets for field use, preventing accidental adjustments.
Mounting with standard Leupold 1-inch rings on a cantilever rail took 15 minutes and required minimal adjustment. After a quick 25-yard zero, it held steady even after multiple sessions.
Reddit users in /r/Shotguns and /r/Hunting frequently recommend this scope for 870 slug guns due to its durability and optical sharpness.
Verdict:
Perfect balance of durability, weight, and clarity for short-to-midrange slug hunting.
2. Burris Fullfield II Hunting Scope
The Burris Fullfield II is a rugged, affordable optic that pairs well with the hard-recoiling 870 platform.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
In my experience, the Ballistic Plex reticle works beautifully for estimating slug drop at 100–150 yards. The glass is crisp, performing well in dawn and dusk conditions.
Mounting was simple using Burris Zee rings. I tested it on my 870 with Remington AccuTip 385-grain slugs — after 5 shots, I had a 2-inch group at 100 yards.
Durability-wise, the Fullfield II is built like a tank. After a full deer season, zero remained perfect. Some online users mention fogging in cold, wet weather, though I haven’t encountered that.
Verdict:
An affordable, tough scope that delivers big-game accuracy on a budget.
3. Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 (Dead-Hold BDC)
The Vortex Crossfire II offers unbeatable value for slug gun hunters seeking optical quality without breaking the bank.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass clarity is impressive, and the BDC reticle is great for slug shooters estimating holdover beyond 100 yards. The long eye relief makes it perfect for the 870’s recoil impulse — even with magnum slugs, I experienced no scope bite.
Turrets are capped but tactile. I performed a box test at 50 yards; adjustments tracked true and returned to zero perfectly. Durability is top-tier — nitrogen purged and fully waterproof.
Online communities praise the Crossfire II for its “set and forget” performance on slug guns. It’s a reliable all-rounder.
Verdict:
A value-packed optic that withstands abuse while offering clear, reliable performance.
4. Bushnell Banner 3-9x40 Dusk & Dawn
The Bushnell Banner 3-9x40 Dusk & Dawn delivers excellent low-light performance for early-morning deer hunts.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass clarity is surprisingly good for the price, and the Dusk & Dawn coatings genuinely improve brightness at dawn and dusk. Eye relief is serviceable, though a bit short for hard recoils — I recommend mounting slightly forward on the rail.
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