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Magnification: 1-10xObjective Lens: 24mmTube Diameter: 34mmFocal Plane: FFPReticle: EBR-9 BDC (Illuminated)Adjustment: 0.1 MIL per clickWeight: 21.5 ozCrystal-clear HD glassTrue 1x with daylight-bright illuminationTank-like buildSmooth magnification throwPriceySlightly heavy for an LPVO
Magnification: 5-25xObjective Lens: 56mmTube Diameter: 34mmReticle: MIL-XT or MOA-XTAdjustment: 0.1 MILWeight: 37.6 ozExceptional glass qualityRock-solid zero retentionSuperb turret feelReliable FFP reticleExpensiveHeavier than competitors
Magnification: 5-25xObjective: 56mmTube: 35mmFocal Plane: FFPReticle: TMR or PR2-MILWeight: 30 ozLightweight for its sizeExcellent low-light clarityCrisp turrets with ZeroLockLifetime warrantySlight chromatic aberration at 25x
Magnification: 8-34xObjective Lens: 56mmTube Diameter: 30mmFocal Plane: FFPReticle: APLR2 MOAWeight: 32.9 ozAffordable yet preciseExcellent magnification rangeClear reticle with illuminated centerSmooth side parallaxSlight tunnel vision at 8xTurret clicks not as crisp as high-end models
Magnification: 5-25xObjective Lens: 56mmTube Diameter: 34mmReticle: VPR MILAdjustment: 0.1 MILWeight: 36 ozHigh-end performance at mid-range priceTrue FFP reticleExcellent zero trackingComes with a lifetime warrantySlightly heavy
LPVO (1–10x) for 3-Gun5–25x for PRS/NRLFFP for long-range precisionSFP for faster 3-Gun transitionsMIL or MOAHash marks for holdoversMust be tactile and repeatablePerform a box testLighter scopes improve mobility in field matchesED or HD glass for crisp detail in varying lightLifetime warranties preferred (e.g., Leupold, Vortex, Arken)Added peace of mind
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5 Best Scope for Competition Shooting: My Top Picks for Precision and Performance
When it comes to precision rifle sports, selecting the best scope for competition shooting can mean the difference between winning and simply showing up. I’ve spent years behind optics, testing them across PRS (Precision Rifle Series), NRL, and 3-Gun events.
Whether shooting steel at 1,000 yards or running and gunning at close quarters, a competition-grade scope must offer impeccable clarity, tactile turrets, and repeatable tracking. In this guide, I’ll break down my top picks and share real-world testing results, including setup, zeroing, and usage experience.
Top Product List: 5 Best Scope for Competition Shooting for 2025
Here’s my shortlist of the top scopes for competition shooting, from budget-friendly to elite-tier performers:
Each scope on this list was tested on different rifles and under various lighting and distance conditions to evaluate their true competition potential.
1. Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10x24 EBR-9 BDC
The Razor HD Gen III represents Vortex’s peak LPVO technology — blending speed, durability, and optical precision. It’s one of the most versatile scopes for dynamic competition shooting, particularly in 3-Gun and tactical carbine divisions.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
The Razor HD Gen III’s edge-to-edge clarity is phenomenal. The EBR-9 reticle provides precise holdovers with minimal clutter. I observed no chromatic aberration even in bright sunlight.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
At 1x, eye relief is forgiving, ideal for rapid transitions. At 10x, it remains usable but demands a consistent cheek weld.
Durability:
Built like a tank — it shrugged off recoil on my AR-10 (.308 Win) after 500 rounds. The aircraft-grade aluminum housing and waterproof seals make it truly match-ready.
Elevation & Windage Knobs:
The clicks are sharp and tactile — perfect for timed adjustments under stress. The Zero Stop system is reliable and easy to reset.
Magnification & Parallax:
Magnification transitions are buttery smooth thanks to the integrated throw lever. Parallax is factory-fixed, suitable for 0–600 yards.
Mounting & Accessories:
Mounted via a Geissele 34mm Super Precision mount. Installation was straightforward, with perfect alignment and zero shift.
My Experience:
I used this scope in a regional 3-Gun match, engaging from 10 yards to 400 yards. The true 1x and crisp reticle gave me a clear speed advantage in CQB stages.
Online Discussions:
Reddit threads rave about its optical quality, often comparing it favorably to Nightforce NX8.
Verdict:
The Razor HD Gen III is the most balanced LPVO for serious competition shooters demanding both precision and speed.
2. NightForce ATACR 5-25x56 F1
The NightForce ATACR is legendary in the precision shooting world. Designed for long-range competition, it delivers repeatable tracking, impeccable clarity, and military-grade ruggedness.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
The SCHOTT glass offers incredible color fidelity and contrast. The MIL-XT reticle enables fast corrections for wind and elevation.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
Generous at all magnifications, though the eye box tightens slightly at 25x — typical for high-magnification optics.
Durability:
NightForce scopes are combat-tested. Mine survived rain, mud, and a drop off a shooting bench with zero shift.
Elevation & Windage Knobs:
The turrets are perfection — clean, audible, and tactile with a flawless ZeroStop feature.
Magnification & Parallax:
Parallax adjustment ranges from 45 yards to infinity, smooth and precise. Magnification ring movement is fluid.
My Experience:
Mounted on my Tikka T3x TAC A1 (.308 Win, 168gr SMK), zeroed at 100 yards in 6 shots, and held zero after 400 rounds. I stretched it out to 1,200 yards with ease.
Online Feedback:
The ATACR is a frequent winner in PRS circles, with shooters praising its consistent tracking even under rough use.
Verdict:
For those who demand absolute precision, the ATACR 5-25x56 F1 remains the benchmark optic for professional-level competition.
3. Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56 M5C3 FFP
Engineered for speed and accuracy, the Mark 5HD packs incredible optical quality into a lightweight body, ideal for PRS and tactical competitions.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
The HD lenses produce razor-sharp images with minimal distortion. The PR2-MIL reticle provides fine hold points for quick elevation calls.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
Forgiving eye relief at all magnifications. I found quick target acquisition even at higher zoom levels.
Durability:
Shockproof, fog-proof, and waterproof. Survived a cold-weather PRS match in snow without fogging or zero drift.
Turrets:
M5C3 turrets are outstanding, with clear clicks and solid ZeroLock. The tactile feedback is among the best in the market.
Magnification & Parallax:
Smooth power ring rotation, with parallax adjustable from 50 yards to infinity.
My Experience:
Mounted on a 6.5 Creedmoor Ruger Precision Rifle using a 35mm one-piece mount. Took 5 shots to zero and held zero after 350 rounds.
Online Feedback:
PRS shooters consistently rank it as one of the top lightweight long-range scopes.
Verdict:
The Leupold Mark 5HD is perfect for competitors who value clarity and reduced weight without sacrificing precision.
4. Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 8-34x56 FFP
The Argos BTR Gen2 delivers long-range performance at a budget-friendly price, making it a favorite among new PRS competitors.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
Glass performance is impressive for the price — minimal distortion and decent edge clarity. The reticle’s MOA subtensions are easy to read under magnification.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
Comfortable at mid-range magnifications, though slightly tight at 34x.
Durability:
Held zero on my 6mm Creedmoor rifle over multiple matches. The scope body feels solid and recoil-resistant.
Turrets:
Reliable and repeatable, though the click feel is a bit soft compared to premium optics.
Magnification & Parallax:
Parallax adjustment is precise; image remains sharp from 50 yards to over 1,000 yards.
My Experience:
Zeroed in 4 rounds and maintained POI through 250 shots. It’s a great entry-level option for PRS and long-range club matches.
Online Feedback:
Reddit users often recommend it as a “best value FFP scope” for beginner competition shooters.
Verdict:
If you’re entering precision shooting on a budget, the Argos BTR GEN2 is a top performer that punches above its price.
5. Arken Optics EP5 5-25x56 Rifle Scope FFP
The Arken EP5 is a crowd favorite for its unbeatable combination of quality, features, and affordability. Ideal for mid- to long-range matches.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
Impressive glass clarity, nearly on par with scopes twice its price. The VPR MIL reticle provides intuitive holdovers.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
Generous and forgiving — comfortable across the magnification range.
Durability:
It handled my 6.5 Creedmoor recoil flawlessly and maintained zero over multiple shooting sessions.
Turrets:
Crisp and mechanical. Tracking test confirmed perfect 1:1 click accuracy over 10 MILs.
Magnification & Parallax:
Parallax adjustable down to 25 yards, great for precision rimfire and centerfire alike.
My Experience:
Mounted on a Bergara B14 HMR, zeroed quickly at 100 yards, and hit consistent sub-MOA groups at 800 yards.
Online Feedback:
Shooters praise its “glass-to-dollar ratio,” calling it the best mid-tier PRS optic available.
Verdict:
The Arken EP5 delivers outstanding clarity, tracking, and reliability — ideal for mid-range competitors seeking pro-level results.
How to Choose the Right Scope for Competition Shooting
Selecting the right optic depends on your shooting discipline and goals:
Type of Competition
Focal Plane
Reticle Type
Turret Tracking
Weight
Glass Quality
Warranty & Support
FAQs
1. What magnification is best for competition shooting?
It depends on your sport. For PRS or long-range matches, 5-25x is ideal. For 3-Gun or dynamic matches, 1-10x LPVOs dominate.
2. Should I choose FFP or SFP?
FFP (First Focal Plane) is better for precision matches where you need accurate subtensions at all zoom levels. SFP works best for speed shooting.
3. What is the most reliable turret system?
NightForce’s ZeroStop and Leupold’s ZeroLock are industry leaders, providing tactile and consistent tracking.
4. Are Arken and Athlon scopes good for competitions?
Yes — both brands offer high-quality glass and accurate tracking at reasonable prices, perfect for new competitors.
5. Do I need illumination for competition scopes?
Illumination helps in low-light stages but isn’t essential for daylight matches.
6. How do I test scope tracking accuracy?
Perform a “box test” — adjust elevation and windage in a square pattern at 100 yards to confirm click precision.
7. What mounts are best for competitive setups?
Use high-quality one-piece mounts (e.g., ADM, Spuhr, or Geissele) for rigidity and zero retention.
Conclusion
Choosing the best scope for competition shooting is about balancing clarity, tracking precision, and usability. After months of side-by-side testing, the Vortex Razor HD Gen III leads for multi-gun versatility, while the NightForce ATACR dominates long-range precision matches. The Arken EP5 and Athlon Argos BTR Gen2 prove that you don’t need to spend thousands to compete effectively.
Ultimately, your perfect scope is the one that complements your shooting style, rifle platform, and competition goals. Whatever you choose, invest in quality optics — because in competition shooting, precision begins with your glass.
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