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Magnification: 5–25xObjective Lens: 50mmReticle: EBR-7C (FFP, illuminated)Tube: 30mmWeight: 31.2 ozParallax: Side focus (25 yards–∞)Razor-sharp glass clarityCrisp and tactile turretsZero stop system works flawlesslyExcellent illumination controlSlightly heavy for field useReticle can appear fine at low magnification
Magnification: 3–18xObjective: 50mmReticle: TMOA or Impact-23Tube: 30mmWeight: 20.4 ozExceptional low-light clarityIncredibly lightweightLocking turrets with zero stopLifetime warrantyPremium price pointLimited elevation travel for ELR use
Magnification: 5–20xObjective: 56mmReticle: MOARTube: 30mmWeight: 29.1 ozCrystal-clear glass and contrastExcellent tracking and zero stopMassive 56mm objective gathers tons of lightBombproof build qualitySlightly heavier than othersLimited reticle illumination settings
Magnification: 5–25xObjective Lens: 56mmReticle: VPR MIL (FFP)Tube: 34mmWeight: 39 ozHigh-end glass for the priceGreat turret feelIlluminated reticleZero stop and parallax adjustmentsSlightly heavyReticle may feel busy to new shooters
Magnification: 8–34xObjective: 56mmReticle: APLR2 FFP IR MOATube: 30mmWeight: 32 ozIncredible zoom rangeIlluminated FFP reticleGreat price for the featuresSolid tracking reliabilitySlight edge distortion at max powerHeavy for lightweight builds
For Varmint Hunting (100–300 yards): 3–9x or 4–16x magnification with light weight and simple reticle (e.g., Leupold VX-6HD).For Long-Range Target (400–800 yards): 5–25x or higher magnification and FFP reticle (Vortex PST Gen II, Arken EP5).For All-Weather Use: Go for waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof models with locking turrets.Glass Quality: Prioritize ED or HD glass for spotting small varmints at distance.Turrets & Reticle: Look for reliable tracking and MOA/MIL reticles with clear holdovers for ballistic precision.
For all-around versatility, the Vortex Viper PST Gen II leads the pack.If you want lightweight hunting performance, go with the Leupold VX-6HD.And for the best value in long-range precision, the Arken EP5 can’t be beaten.
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5 Best Scope for .220 Swift — Top 5 Long-Range Optics for Precision Shooters
The best scope for .220 Swift needs to match the cartridge’s blistering velocity and flat trajectory. Known for pushing bullets beyond 4,000 fps, the .220 Swift is a favorite among varmint hunters and precision shooters alike. To make the most of this round’s capabilities, you need optics that deliver top-tier glass clarity, precise tracking, and reliable durability under recoil.
In this guide, I’ll share my top picks for scopes that balance magnification, reticle precision, and price — all tested in real-world hunting and bench-rest conditions.
🏆 Top Product List: 5 Best Scope for .220 Swift of 2025
Here’s a quick look at my top picks for the best scope for .220 Swift:
Each of these optics excels in different aspects — from precision long-range shooting to lightweight hunting versatility.
1. Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50 FFP
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II is one of the best values in precision shooting optics, offering premium glass, intuitive reticle design, and repeatable tracking. It’s built for shooters who want top-tier performance without the $2,000 price tag.
Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
Vortex’s glass coatings provide edge-to-edge clarity, even at 25x. The EBR-7C reticle makes holdovers simple for high-speed calibers like the .220 Swift, letting me engage targets beyond 500 yards with confidence.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
With about 3.4 inches of consistent relief, it’s forgiving and comfortable for long sessions at the bench.
Durability:
Shockproof, fogproof, and waterproof — this scope feels like a tank. Mine has endured drops, rain, and rough handling in the field without losing zero.
Elevation & Windage Knobs:
Precise and positive — exactly what you want when dialing for long shots.
Magnification & Parallax:
The parallax adjustment is smooth and accurate. The 5–25x range perfectly complements the .220 Swift’s long-range capability.
Mounting & Accessories:
I mounted it using Vortex Precision Matched Rings on a 20 MOA rail — ideal for maintaining zero at extended ranges.
Personal Experience:
From prairie dogs to steel at 800 yards, this scope tracks beautifully. I trust it for every varmint trip.
Online Comments:
Reddit and SnipersHide forums echo my experience — shooters praise its reliability and tracking repeatability.
Verdict:
A no-brainer choice for serious long-range shooters who want premium performance under $1,000.
2. Leupold VX-6HD 3-18x50
The VX-6HD is Leupold’s crown jewel for hunters demanding lightweight precision. With an HD optical system and Twilight Max Light Management, it performs exceptionally in dawn or dusk varmint hunts.
Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
Images are crisp and color-rich, even in poor lighting. The illuminated reticle is daylight-bright but fine enough for 400-yard varmint shots.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
Generous and consistent, with a forgiving eye box — ideal when shooting from varied positions.
Durability:
Built like a Leupold — meaning virtually indestructible. Fully waterproof, fogproof, and backed by their no-questions warranty.
Elevation & Windage Knobs:
Turrets are tactile and lock securely. The Custom Dial System (CDS) makes ballistic compensation easy for a .220 Swift’s flat trajectory.
Magnification & Parallax:
Smooth zoom and perfect parallax adjustment for distances from 50 yards to infinity.
My Experience:
I’ve used it extensively for coyotes and groundhogs. The balance and glass make long sits behind the rifle effortless.
Online Comments:
Many hunters on 24hourcampfire and AR15.com consider it the “perfect blend” of hunting practicality and precision capability.
Verdict:
If you want a high-end optic that’s light, durable, and crystal clear — this is it.
3. NightForce SHV 5-20x56mm Zeroset
NightForce needs no introduction. The SHV series brings the company’s military-grade optics to civilian long-range shooters at a more approachable price.
Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
The SHV’s optical quality is nearly identical to NightForce’s higher-end lines. The MOAR reticle offers clean holdover marks — perfect for fast .220 Swift trajectories.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
Consistent at all powers, though the eye box tightens slightly past 18x.
Durability:
Built to military-grade standards. After hundreds of rounds, zero hasn’t shifted an inch.
Elevation & Windage:
Precise and tactile. The Zeroset system ensures reliable return-to-zero after dialing.
My Experience:
I’ve stretched the Swift past 600 yards on steel using this scope — the clarity and precision are unmatched in this price class.
Online Comments:
Users on LongRangeHunting rave about its “NightForce reliability at a mortal’s price.”
Verdict:
Ideal for shooters demanding competition-level reliability and long-range consistency.
4. Arken Optics EP5 5-25X56 Rifle Scope FFP
Arken Optics has disrupted the market with feature-packed scopes at affordable prices. The EP5 5-25x56 is a precision shooter’s dream, combining ED glass with an excellent VPR reticle.
Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
For under $600, the glass quality punches way above its class. The VPR reticle makes it easy to correct for wind and bullet drop on a fast round like the .220 Swift.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
Comfortable and consistent. I found it easy to acquire targets quickly.
Durability:
Fully nitrogen purged and rugged. I’ve taken it through rain and dust with no fogging or zero drift.
Turrets:
Crisp, audible, and extremely repeatable. Arken’s zero stop is intuitive.
Magnification & Parallax:
Smooth control, and the side parallax adjustment tracks accurately past 25 yards.
My Experience:
I used this scope on a Ruger 77V in .220 Swift — it held up flawlessly after multiple sessions at 400–600 yards.
Online Comments:
Shooters on Reddit’s r/longrange praise it as “the best sub-$600 precision scope.”
Verdict:
The Arken EP5 is the best entry-level precision optic for the Swift shooter who wants performance without the premium cost.
5. Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 8-34x56 FFP
The Argos BTR GEN2 offers extreme magnification for long-range varmint or bench shooting. It’s one of the few scopes under $500 that still provides FFP functionality and reliable tracking.
Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
While not Zeiss-level, it’s impressively clear for its price. The APLR2 reticle provides precise holdovers, making it easy to exploit the Swift’s flat shooting characteristics.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
3.3 inches — consistent and sufficient. At 34x, the eye box tightens, but it’s manageable.
Durability:
Solidly built for its price class. Nitrogen purged and waterproof.
My Experience:
I paired this with a Savage 12FV. At 500–700 yards, the tracking stayed dead-on, even after repeated turret spins.
Online Comments:
Most Athlon owners on PrecisionRifleForums consider it the best starter long-range optic.
Verdict:
For the budget-conscious shooter wanting maximum magnification, the Argos BTR GEN2 is unbeatable.
🧭 How to Choose the Right Scope for the .220 Swift
Choosing the right optic depends on your shooting purpose:
❓ FAQs
1. What magnification is ideal for the .220 Swift?
Anywhere between 4–25x works well. For long-range target shooting, 25x or higher is optimal.
2. Is the .220 Swift good for long-range hunting?
Absolutely. Its flat trajectory and high velocity make it superb for varmints out to 500–600 yards.
3. Should I choose FFP or SFP for the .220 Swift?
FFP (First Focal Plane) is preferred for long-range precision; SFP is better for hunting simplicity.
4. What’s the best budget scope for .220 Swift?
The Arken EP5 or Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 deliver outstanding value under $600.
5. Do I need a 34mm tube?
Not necessarily, but larger tubes offer more adjustment range — handy for long-range shooting.
6. Can I use a night vision scope on a .220 Swift?
Yes, but make sure it’s rated for centerfire recoil — the ATN X-Sight 4K Pro is a good option.
7. What mounts work best?
A 20 MOA base with medium or high rings fits most 50–56mm objective scopes perfectly.
🏁 Conclusion
The best scope for .220 Swift depends on how you shoot — but every scope on this list brings premium clarity, reliable tracking, and the precision this cartridge deserves.
No matter which you choose, pairing one of these optics with your .220 Swift will let you stretch the rifle’s performance — and your confidence — farther than ever.
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