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Top 8 Best 50mm Scopes of 2024
When you’re in pursuit of the perfect shot, having a high-quality scope can make all the difference. The 50mm scopes of 2024 stand out for their precision and clarity, catering to every marksman’s needs. Whether you’re drawn to the Bushnell Banner’s exceptional clarity or the versatility of the Vortex Optics Strike Eagle, these scopes promise superior performance.
You might find yourself interested in the durability of the Leupold VX-Freedom or the advanced features of the Nightforce NX8. Curious about what makes these scopes the best for the upcoming year? Let’s explore what sets them apart.
Top 8 Best 3-9x50 Scopes on the Market 2024
Note: The following advice comes from my personal perspective. What works for me might not work for you, but hopefully it sparks some ideas!
1. Bushnell Banner 6-18x50mm Riflescope
The Bushnell Banner 6-18x50mm Hunting Riflescope, with its Dusk & Dawn Brightness multi-coated lenses, is perfect for hunters who need a reliable scope in low-light conditions.
You’ll appreciate its fully multi-coated design, ensuring bright, high-contrast images even during dawn and dusk. This scope is ideal for long-range varmint, silhouette, and target shooting, offering exceptional clarity and performance.
The argon purged fog-proofing and IPX7 waterproof construction guarantee ultimate protection in varying weather conditions. Its one-piece tube design adds durability, while the Multi-X reticle aids in precision aiming.
Despite its bulkiness, the scope is praised for holding zero after multiple rounds and adjustments. With a competitive price and positive user feedback, it’s a cost-effective choice for any hunting or target shooting enthusiast.
Best For: Hunters and shooters looking for a reliable, high-clarity riflescope suitable for low-light conditions and long-range shooting.
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2. Vortex Optics Strike Eagle Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
For marksmen seeking versatility and precision, the Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 1-8x24 scope offers a true 1x magnification, ideal for engaging targets from close to extended ranges.
This second focal plane scope features an updated magnification ring with a thread-in throw lever, allowing quick adjustments. The illuminated BDC3 reticle enables fast target acquisition up to 650 yards, while the fast focus dial guarantees easy reticle focusing.
Enhanced by anti-reflective coatings, the scope maximizes light transmission. Constructed with aluminum, the Strike Eagle is nitrogen purged, o-ring sealed, shockproof, and water/fogproof, ensuring robust performance.
Backed by a lifetime VIP Warranty, this scope is highly praised for its clear glass, reticle, and illumination, despite minor concerns regarding weight and magnification ring stiffness.
Best For: Marksmen seeking a versatile and precise scope for engaging targets from close to extended ranges.
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3. Vortex Optics Diamondback Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
Looking for a riflescope with exceptional clarity and durability? The Vortex Optics Diamondback Second Focal Plane Riflescope offers outstanding performance and construction, making it a standout choice for marksmen.
With magnification ranging from 3.5x to 10x and a 50mm objective lens, you’ll enjoy bright, clear images thanks to fully multi-coated lenses. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle is perfect for hunting at varying ranges, while the fast-focus eyepiece guarantees quick reticle focusing.
Built from durable aluminum, this black riflescope features metal-on-metal precision turrets for zero reset, shockproof construction, and an argon-purged, o-ring sealed design for fogproof and waterproof performance.
Plus, it comes with an unlimited, unconditional, lifetime warranty, making it a reliable addition to your gear.
Best For: Hunters and marksmen seeking a durable, high-performance riflescope with exceptional clarity and a versatile magnification range.
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4. Leupold VX-Freedom 4-12x50mm Riflescope
With its best-in-class optics and unbeatable accuracy, the Leupold VX-Freedom 4-12x50mm Riflescope is perfect for marksmen seeking reliable performance and dependability.
This scope, crafted from durable aluminum, offers a magnification range of 4x to 12x, ensuring excellent clarity and precision.
The 50mm objective lens enhances light transmission, providing bright and clear images.
Designed, machined, and assembled in Oregon, the scope undergoes rigorous testing to meet ruggedness standards.
It’s compatible with Picatinny or Dovetail mounts, although it doesn’t support night vision.
Backed by Leupold’s Full Lifetime Guarantee, the VX-Freedom maintains its zero perfectly and is praised for its clear optics and easy sighting.
With impeccable customer reviews, this scope is a solid choice for any serious marksman.
Best For: Marksmen seeking reliable performance and dependability in a riflescope.
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5. Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 First Focal Plane Riflescopes
The Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 First Focal Plane Riflescope is perfect for marksmen who demand precision and durability in every shot. Featuring a first focal plane design, this scope guarantees that your specially designed reticles scale with magnification, providing consistent accuracy.
The illuminated reticle enhances visibility in low-light conditions, while the reticle etched on glass ensures durability. With advanced fully multi-coated optics and an XPL coating, you’ll enjoy brighter images and superior lens protection.
Constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum, this scope is built to withstand rugged use. Users have praised its image quality, reticle clarity, and ease of use, although some noted a dark image at high power.
Overall, it offers excellent value and performance for its price.
Best For: Marksmen who demand precision, durability, and enhanced visibility in low-light conditions.
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6. Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x50mm Riflescope
For hunters seeking unparalleled clarity and durability, the Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x50mm Riflescope stands out with its elite optical system and rugged construction. This scope features an Illuminated FireDot Twilight Hunter Reticle, ensuring excellent light transmission, glare reduction, resolution, and clarity.
Made in the USA, it’s waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, built to withstand harsh conditions. The CDS-ZL system simplifies long-range shooting, while the matte finish adds a sleek touch. With a magnification range of 4.5x to 14x and a 50mm objective lens, you’ll enjoy a broad field of view and exceptional detail.
Backed by Leupold’s Full Lifetime Guarantee, you’re assured of its longevity and performance. Customer reviews highlight its clarity and durability, making it a trusted choice.
Best For: Hunters looking for a durable, high-performance riflescope with excellent clarity and long-range shooting capabilities.
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7. NIGHTFORCE NX8 2.5-20X50mm Scopes
Designed for extreme conditions, the Nightforce NX8 2.5-20X50mm scope is perfect for marksmen seeking versatility and durability in challenging environments. This scope boasts an 8X magnification range and a 50mm objective, optimizing resolution and light transmission for a clear target view. The ZeroStop elevation adjustment allows for a rapid return to zero, enhancing shooting precision. The MOAR-CF2 reticle facilitates fast holds, making it highly efficient during use.
Included accessories such as Tenebraex flip-up covers, a cleaning fob/cloth, a multi-tool, a power throw lever, stickers, and a manual make sure you’re well-equipped for maintenance and adjustments.
Users appreciate its lightweight design, dark earth finish, and excellent glass quality. Positive feedback highlights the scope’s solid feel and overall performance, making it a reliable choice.
Best For: Marksmen seeking a versatile and durable scope for use in challenging environments.
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8. Monstrum G2 6-24x50 First Focal Plane Riflescope
If you’re a marksman seeking versatile magnification and precise adjustments, the Monstrum G2 6-24x50 First Focal Plane Rifle Scope offers an impressive 6-24x range with a 50mm objective lens.
This scope features a first focal plane rangefinder reticle, ensuring that your holdover points remain consistent across all magnifications. The adjustable objective lens allows for sharper focus and eliminates parallax, enhancing your shooting accuracy.
With 4-4.5 inches of eye relief, you can comfortably mount it on various rifles. The dial-controlled reticle illumination in both red and green provides flexibility in different lighting conditions.
Made from durable aluminum and weighing just 11 ounces, this scope is lightweight yet robust. It’s an excellent choice for hunting and long-distance shooting, though it’s not ideal for precision shooting due to its turret feedback.
Best For: Marksmen seeking a versatile, affordable scope with a wide magnification range and durable build for hunting and long-distance shooting.
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