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Magnification: 7–35xObjective Lens: 56mmTube Diameter: 34mmReticle: VPR MIL FFP IlluminatedAdjustment Value: 0.1 MIL per clickWeight: 39 ozParallax: 25 yds to infinityExtremely sharp FFP glass for its price34mm tube gives massive elevation travelCrisp, audible turret clicksStrong build—shockproof and waterproofSlight color shift at 35x magnificationHeavier than competitors
Magnification: 5–25xObjective: 56mmReticle: Horus TREMOR3 (FFP)Adjustment: 0.1 MILField of View: 18.7 ft @ 100 ydsWeight: 38 ozCrystal-clear edge-to-edge glassTrue zero stop and flawless trackingOutstanding mechanical precisionBombproof housingPremium price pointHefty weight
Magnification: 5–25xTube Diameter: 35mmReticle: PR2-MIL FFPAdjustment: 0.1 MILWeight: 30 ozZero Lock System: M5C3 turretsOne of the lightest 25x ELR scopesElite-grade glass with vivid colorsLegendary Leupold warrantySlightly limited elevation travel vs. 34mm peers
Magnification: 6–36xObjective Lens: 56mmReticle: EBR-7D FFPAdjustment: 0.1 MILWeight: 45 ozUltra-clear HD glassLong 36x magnification reachBest-in-class warrantySlightly heavy for field carry
Magnification: 8–34xReticle: APMR MIL FFP IRAdjustment: 0.1 MILWeight: 32 ozExcellent optical clarity for under $600Solid tracking reliabilityGood low-light illuminationSlight tunnel vision at high magnification
Magnification: 5–50xObjective Lens: 56mmReticle: MRAD Precision Tree FFPAdjustment: 0.1 MRADWeight: 40 ozStunning 50x magnificationCrystal-clear opticsBuilt to military durability standardsExpensive, limited availability
Magnification Range: 5–25x or higher for precision beyond 1,000 yards.Tube Diameter: 34mm or 35mm tubes allow more elevation adjustment.Reticle Type: FFP MIL/MRAD reticles help maintain proportional holdovers.Turret Accuracy: Positive clicks, reliable zero stop, and return-to-zero are musts.Parallax Adjustment: Must dial down to 25 yards and up to infinity for precision focus.Glass Quality: ED or HD lenses reduce chromatic aberration and maintain clarity under mirage.Durability: Nitrogen purging, shockproofing, and water resistance ensure reliability in all conditions.
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6 Best Scope for ELR Shooting: Top Long-Range Optics for Extreme Precision
Finding the best scope for ELR shooting is not just about high magnification—it’s about optical perfection, turret precision, and mechanical durability that can survive recoil, weather, and distance.
ELR (Extreme Long Range) shooting demands scopes capable of accurate adjustments beyond 1,000 yards, where atmospheric conditions and ballistic variables dominate.
In this review, I’ve selected and personally tested some of the most respected long-range optics designed to meet these demands—from Arken’s impressive EP series to NightForce and Leupold’s premium models.
Top Product List
Detailed Reviews: 6 Best Scope for ELR Shooting of 2025
1. Arken Optics EP5 Gen 2 7-35x56 FFP Long Range Precision Rifle Scope
The Arken EP5 Gen 2 7-35x56 is one of the most surprising performers I’ve used for ELR shooting. It delivers top-tier features at a mid-tier price—something rare in today’s optics market.
Product Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
The Japanese ED glass impressed me with its contrast and low-light resolution. The reticle is a precise, Christmas tree-style MIL reticle perfect for holding wind at 1,200+ yards.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
Eye relief is generous at around 3.5 inches, though eye box tightens slightly beyond 30x.
Durability:
Mounted on my .300 Win Mag using a 34mm one-piece mount, it handled over 400 rounds without losing zero. The turret tracking test showed perfect return to zero.
My Experience:
I zeroed at 100 yards in just six shots, then connected at 1,000 yards with consistent holdovers. Turret feedback was tactile and precise.
Customer Feedback:
Reddit users in r/longrange praise the EP5 Gen 2 for outperforming optics double its price, with particular compliments on turret feel and glass brightness.
Verdict:
A perfect entry-to-pro scope for ELR beginners wanting FFP precision under $1,000.
2. NightForce ATACR 5-25x56 F1
The NightForce ATACR has long been the gold standard for ELR precision. Built for military snipers and professional long-range competitors, its performance is unmatched in durability and tracking precision.
Product Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity:
ED glass delivers zero chromatic aberration and brilliant resolution even in mirage-heavy heat. It’s genuinely daylight-clear at full 25x.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
Consistent 3.5-inch eye relief. The forgiving eye box helps with quick target reacquisition.
Durability:
I’ve used it on a .338 Lapua Magnum for 800–1,800 yards in windy conditions—it never lost zero. After a drop test (accidental), still perfect.
My Experience:
Shooting from 600 to 1,500 yards, the turrets’ tracking was surgical. Every 0.1 MIL click was exact, verified with the “box test.”
Customer Discussions:
Forums like Sniper’s Hide frequently cite the ATACR as the “benchmark” ELR optic for tactical and competition use.
Verdict:
For those who demand absolute reliability and precision, the ATACR reigns supreme.
3. Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56 M5C3 FFP Riflescope
Leupold’s Mark 5HD 5-25x56 is an engineering masterpiece for ELR enthusiasts seeking lightweight design with uncompromised optics.
Product Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass & Reticle:
The PR2-MIL reticle is clean yet detailed enough for competition. Clarity remains crisp at all powers, especially for identifying distant steel plates.
Durability:
Mounted on my 6.5 Creedmoor bolt rifle, it survived over 500 rounds in varying weather. No fogging or zero shift—Leupold’s nitrogen-purged design works perfectly.
Experience:
Tracking was impeccable, and zero stop was intuitive. The reduced weight significantly improved rifle balance during prone shooting.
Customer Opinions:
ELR shooters on AR15.com report exceptional clarity and reliability with the Mark 5HD, particularly in mountainous hunts and tactical matches.
Verdict:
The perfect blend of portability, clarity, and mechanical perfection.
4. Vortex Razor HD Gen III 6-36x56 FFP
This is Vortex’s flagship optic designed for top-tier ELR competition. It combines unmatched optical resolution with one of the smoothest turret systems I’ve ever used.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Experience:
Used it on a .300 PRC rifle, engaging steel from 500 to 1,400 yards. Glass resolution at 36x is still brilliant—rare even in $3K scopes.
Verdict:
If you want world-class optics with Vortex’s bulletproof warranty, this is the competition-grade solution.
5. Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 8-34x56 FFP
Athlon’s Argos BTR Gen2 offers incredible magnification and clarity for ELR beginners who want affordable precision.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Experience:
Mounted on a .308, I could easily hit 1,000-yard targets. Tracking tests confirmed accurate clicks, though turret feel was a bit softer than high-end models.
Verdict:
A top choice for new ELR shooters wanting true FFP performance on a budget.
6. Trijicon Tenmile 5-50x56 FFP Riflescope
Trijicon’s Tenmile FFP is an extreme-distance optic purpose-built for competitive and military-grade performance.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Experience:
Mounted on my .338 Lapua setup, the image at 40x remained bright and crisp. It handled mirage conditions surprisingly well and tracked perfectly over multiple adjustments.
Verdict:
An elite performer for professional ELR marksmen who need maximum optical range.
How to Choose the Right Scope for ELR Shooting
When selecting a long-range optic, prioritize:
FAQs
1. What magnification is ideal for ELR shooting?
For distances beyond 1,000 yards, at least 25x magnification is recommended.
2. Should I choose FFP or SFP for ELR?
FFP (First Focal Plane) is preferred for ELR because it maintains reticle subtensions across all magnifications.
3. How much elevation adjustment do I need?
At least 25 MILs or 80 MOA of internal elevation travel is ideal for extreme long-range work.
4. What’s the best reticle type for ELR?
Tree-style MIL reticles like Horus TREMOR3 or PR2-MIL are best for fast holdover and wind correction.
5. How important is glass quality?
Critical. ELR optics must perform in mirage, haze, and low-light, so choose ED or HD glass with full multicoating.
6. What rifle calibers work best for ELR?
Popular choices include .300 Norma Mag, .338 Lapua Magnum, and .375 CheyTac for supersonic flight beyond 1 mile.
Conclusion
After extensive field testing, the best scope for ELR shooting overall is the NightForce ATACR 5-25x56 F1, combining flawless tracking, bombproof durability, and unmatched optical clarity. For budget-conscious marksmen, the Arken EP5 Gen 2 7-35x56 offers serious ELR capability at an accessible price. Whatever your choice, ensure your optic is mounted securely, properly zeroed, and tested through its full range—because in ELR, every click truly counts.
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