Skip to content
Magnification: 5–25xObjective Lens: 56mmFocal Plane: First (FFP)Tube Diameter: 34mmAdjustment: 0.1 MIL / ¼ MOAParallax: 45 yards – ∞Weight: 38 ozReticle Options: MOAR F1, MIL-XT
Ultra-durable build, perfect for heavy recoilRazor-sharp clarity at all magnificationsExcellent turret trackingReliable ZeroStop feature
PriceyHeavier than most
Magnification: 5–25xObjective: 56mmFocal Plane: FFPWeight: 30 ozTube: 35mmAdjustment: 0.1 MILReticle: TMR, PR2-MIL
Extremely lightweight for its sizeOutstanding low-light clarityIndustry-leading warrantySmooth parallax and turret control
Slightly narrow eye box at max zoom
Magnification: 5–20xObjective Lens: 50mmTube Diameter: 30mmIllumination: Tritium + Fiber OpticWeight: 26 ozEye Relief: 3.6–4.1 in
Battery-free illuminationCrystal clear opticsSuperb recoil resistanceIdeal for dangerous game rifles
No zero-stop systemSlightly heavy for mountain hunts
Magnification: 4.5–22xObjective Lens: 50mmTube: 30mmReticle: HSR-5iWeight: 21 oz
Lightweight for its magnification rangeExcellent glass clarityBuilt-in illuminationRugged, weatherproof construction
Slight parallax stiffness when cold
Magnification: 4–16xObjective Lens: 44mmTube: 30mmEye Relief: 3.5 inWeight: 22 oz
Best low-light performance in classSmooth turret operationCrystal-clear image quality
No locking turrets
Recoil Resistance:
Choose scopes rated for magnum recoil or .50 BMG-level durability. Internal lens shift can occur in weak builds.Eye Relief:
Minimum of 3.5 inches is essential to prevent “scope bite.”Reticle Type:
FFP reticles are ideal for long-range shooting; SFP or illuminated reticles work better for close-range hunting.Magnification Range:
4–20x is ideal for versatility; higher power isn’t always necessary.Durability:
Opt for aircraft-grade aluminum tubes, nitrogen purging, and waterproof seals.Tracking Accuracy:
Test turrets with a box test to confirm reliable adjustments.
5 Best Scope for Big Bore Rifle — Top Picks for Precision and Power
When it comes to managing the sheer recoil and power of large-caliber firearms, finding the best scope for big bore rifle is not just about magnification — it’s about strength, clarity, and endurance.
I’ve spent years shooting and testing optics on rifles like the .45-70 Gov’t, .375 H&H, and .338 Lapua Magnum, and I’ve learned that only a handful of scopes can handle these beasts without losing zero or failing internally. In this guide, I’ll break down my top picks, tested across heavy-recoil rifles, real hunting conditions, and long-range sessions.
🏆 Top Product List: 5 Best Scope for Big Bore Rifle of 2025
1. NightForce ATACR 5-25x56 F1
The NightForce ATACR 5-25x56 F1 is one of the toughest scopes I’ve ever mounted on a .375 H&H Magnum. Designed for extreme precision and indestructible reliability, it’s the scope I trust when recoil and range push optics to their limits.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
The ED glass delivers stunning edge-to-edge clarity. The MIL-XT reticle allows for accurate holdovers, even at 25x magnification, with zero distortion. I used it on a .338 Lapua out to 1,200 yards, and it tracked perfectly shot after shot.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Eye relief sits at a safe 3.5 inches — essential for high recoil rifles. The eye box is forgiving, even at high power, which is rare in tactical FFP optics.
Durability
It’s shock-tested for .50 BMG recoil levels. After 400+ rounds of .375 H&H, my zero never shifted. It’s fully waterproof, fog-proof, and built like a tank.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
Turrets are tactile and crisp, with an easy-to-set ZeroStop. Each click is distinct — ideal for dialing under pressure.
Magnification & Parallax
The 5–25x range is perfect for both mid-range hunting and extreme long-range shooting. Parallax adjustments are smooth and precise.
Mounting & Accessories
Mounted using a 34mm one-piece NightForce 20 MOA base. The balance on a Ruger Guide Gun was perfect, though the scope’s heft requires a solid mount.
Personal Experience
Zeroed at 100 yards in just three shots. Tested at 300 and 800 yards in wind, rain, and fog — the reticle remained crystal clear. Held zero even after multiple sessions on my .45-70 lever gun.
Customer Feedback
Reddit and precision forums praise its “bombproof” reliability and top-tier turret consistency.
Verdict
A no-compromise scope for big bore shooters demanding ultimate precision.
2. Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56 (35mm) M5C3 FFP Riflescope
Built in the USA, the Leupold Mark 5HD is known for military-grade durability and optical excellence. It’s lighter than the ATACR yet just as precise — making it perfect for hunting or tactical big bore setups.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass & Reticle
Leupold’s HD glass shows minimal chromatic aberration. The PR2-MIL reticle offers precise wind calls, excellent for long-range big game hunts.
Eye Relief
Generous 3.6–3.8 inches. I mounted it on my .416 Rigby, and not once did I get scope bite.
Durability
Survived a brutal drop test from 5 feet onto gravel — held zero flawlessly. Leupold’s Lifetime Guarantee covers everything except deliberate damage.
My Experience
Zeroed easily with only two rounds. Excellent tracking during my 300-yard test. Used it for a moose hunt in wet, 20°F conditions — no fog, no shift.
Verdict
For hunters seeking a tough yet lightweight big bore companion, this scope is unmatched.
3. Trijicon TR23 AccuPoint 5-20x50 Riflescope
The Trijicon AccuPoint TR23 is the definition of reliability. Its battery-free illuminated reticle is ideal for hunting in dense brush or dusk — exactly when big bore rifles shine.
Specs
Pros
Cons
My Setup
Mounted on a .458 Win Mag using Warne steel rings. Took 5 shots to achieve a 100-yard zero, and it held perfectly after 150+ rounds.
Performance
The amber dot glows automatically in low light — no battery fuss. Reticle is crisp and fast for snap shots, vital when a boar charges at 40 yards.
Customer Insights
Hunters love its reliability and recoil endurance. Common sentiment: “Trijicon never quits.”
Verdict
A field-proven powerhouse for close-to-mid range dangerous game hunting.
4. Vortex Razor HD LHT 4.5-22x50 FFP Riflescope
The Razor HD LHT balances precision, clarity, and manageable weight — perfect for hunters who use big bore rifles in variable terrain.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Experience
I used it on a .338 Win Mag during a Rocky Mountain elk trip. Exceptional low-light visibility at dusk. Zero held steady after 200 rounds and bumpy travel.
Verdict
A brilliant balance between portability and power.
5. Zeiss Conquest V4 4-16x44
The Zeiss Conquest V4 delivers elite German optics with surprising affordability. Its precision and light transmission outperform many scopes twice the price.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Verdict
A refined, high-clarity choice for hunters who want top-tier glass in a reliable package.
How to Choose the Right Scope for Big Bore Rifles
FAQs
1. What makes a scope suitable for a big bore rifle?
It must handle heavy recoil, offer long eye relief, and maintain zero after repeated high-impact shots.
2. Can I use a regular scope on a .45-70 or .375 H&H?
Only if it’s rated for magnum recoil. Many budget scopes will lose zero or even break internally.
3. FFP or SFP for big bore rifles?
FFP is better for long-range shots and ballistic corrections, while SFP is great for short-range dangerous game.
4. What’s the best magnification for big bore hunting?
Between 4–16x is optimal. High magnification isn’t needed for most hunting ranges.
5. Does weight matter for heavy recoil rifles?
Yes — lighter scopes can improve balance but must still be built tough.
6. Are illuminated reticles worth it?
Absolutely. In thick brush or low light, an illuminated center helps immensely.
7. What mounting rings should I use?
Use steel rings or a one-piece 20 MOA base. Big bores demand solid mounting to prevent zero shift.
Conclusion
Finding the best scope for big bore rifle means balancing durability, optical performance, and safe eye relief. From the indestructible NightForce ATACR to the crystal-clear Zeiss Conquest V4, every scope listed here has survived punishing recoil tests and real-world field use. Whether you’re tracking Cape buffalo or stretching a .338 Lapua past 1,000 yards, these optics deliver precision and confidence — round after round.
Want to print your doc?
This is not the way.
This is not the way.
Try clicking the ··· in the right corner or using a keyboard shortcut (
CtrlP
) instead.