When you’re aiming for precision shooting at 500 yards, selecting the right scope can make all the difference. These eight top scopes, including models from Vortex Optics, Leupold, and Zeiss, offer not just clarity and brightness, but also durability and advanced features like parallax adjustment.

You’ll find scopes with varying magnification powers, reticle types, and lens coatings, tailored to different shooting needs. So, if you’re serious about hitting that distant target with accuracy and ease, exploring what each of these scopes has to offer will be essential. Let’s start with the Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical.

Top 8 Best Scopes for 500 Yards on the Market 2024

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Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical First Focal Plane Riflescopes⁠

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Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen I First Focal Plane Riflescopes⁠

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Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm M1C3 FFP Riflescope⁠

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Bushnell Banner 6-18x50mm Riflescope⁠

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Athlon Optics Midas TAC HD 6-24x50 F1 Scope⁠

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Bushnell Match PRO 6-24X50 RIFLESCOPE⁠

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NIGHTFORCE NXS 5.5-22x56mm F2 Scope⁠

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Zeiss Conquest V4 6-24x50mm Riflescope⁠

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Note: The following advice comes from my personal perspective. What works for me might not work for you, but hopefully it sparks some ideas!

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1. Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical First Focal Plane Riflescopes

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For precision shooters frequently seeking exceptional clarity and performance, the Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical First Focal Plane Riflescope offers a robust package with features like a glass-etched reticle and extra-low dispersion glass. This scope, with its 6-24x50 magnification, guarantees that you can maintain accuracy at various ranges.

It includes fully multi-coated lenses, which greatly enhance light transmission and reduce glare, guaranteeing a crisp, clear view. The precision-glide erector system ensures smooth magnification changes, while exposed turrets and a side parallax knob provide easy adjustments on the field.

Constructed from a shockproof single-piece 30mm tube, the scope is both waterproof and fogproof, thanks to its o-ring seals and nitrogen purging. The fast-focus eyepiece allows for quick and precise reticle focusing.

Best For: Precision shooters seeking exceptional clarity and performance at various ranges.

Pros:

Extra-low dispersion glass and fully multi-coated lenses for enhanced light transmission and reduced glare

Smooth magnification changes with the precision-glide erector system

Robust construction with shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof features

Cons:

Some users may prefer an illuminated reticle, which this model lacks

Slightly heavier compared to other scopes in its class

Higher price point may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers

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2. Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen I First Focal Plane Riflescopes

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The Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen I First Focal Plane Riflescope, with its precise EBR-2C reticle and durable one-piece 30mm aluminum tube, is perfect for serious hunters seeking exceptional clarity and performance.

This scope offers magnification from 6-24x50, making it ideal for long-range shooting. The XD glass guarantees sharp, high-resolution images, while the fiber optic turret indicator and CRS zero stop provide quick, reliable adjustments.

Users appreciate the generous eye relief and crisp turret clicks, although some note a small exit pupil at maximum magnification. Despite minor cons, the Viper PST Gen I remains a top choice, backed by Vortex’s unlimited, unconditional lifetime warranty.

Whether you’re load testing a Savage 110 338 Lapua or targeting game, this scope won’t disappoint.

Best For: Serious hunters and long-range shooters seeking exceptional clarity and performance in a durable riflescope.

Pros:

Exceptional clarity with high-resolution XD glass

Durable, one-piece 30mm aluminum tube

Crisp turret clicks and reliable adjustments with CRS zero stop

Cons:

Small exit pupil at maximum magnification

Small reticle at lower magnification

Mixed reviews on receiving the correct product version

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3. Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm M1C3 FFP Riflescope

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With its exceptional image clarity and robust build, the Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm M1C3 FFP Riflescope is perfect for precision shooters seeking top-tier performance in long-range hunting.

Boasting waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof features, this riflescope is designed to withstand harsh conditions.

The Front Focal Plane (FFP) allows for accurate range estimation, while the M1C3 turrets with Zero Lock guarantee precise adjustments.

The Twilight Max HD Light Management system enhances low-light visibility, making it effective during dawn and dusk hunts.

Made from durable aluminum, this scope offers a 5-25x magnification paired with a 50mm objective lens diameter.

Highly praised by users for its clear glass and superior build quality, it stands as a dependable option for serious hunters.

Best For: Precision shooters and serious hunters seeking top-tier performance in long-range hunting scenarios.

Pros:

Exceptional image clarity and robust build quality

Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof, ensuring durability in harsh conditions

Effective low-light visibility with Twilight Max HD Light Management system

Cons:

Higher price point compared to some other scopes

Larger size may not be suitable for all rifle types

No night vision capability

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Bushnell Banner 6-18x50mm Riflescope

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Hunters and target shooters seeking a reliable scope for low-light conditions will find the Bushnell Banner 6-18x50mm Dusk & Dawn Hunting Riflescope an excellent choice. This scope features Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multi-coated lenses, ensuring exceptional clarity and brightness even in challenging lighting conditions.

Ideal for long-range varmint, silhouette, and target shooting, it’s fully multi-coated for bright, high-contrast images. Built to withstand the elements, the scope boasts argon purged fog-proofing and IPX7 waterproof construction, allowing submersion in water.

Users appreciate its accuracy, ease of use, and light-gathering capabilities, though some note its bulkiness after extended use. Overall, it’s a cost-effective option praised for holding zero and offering reliable performance at various distances.

Best For: Hunters and target shooters looking for a reliable scope with exceptional clarity and brightness in low-light conditions.

Pros:

Exceptional clarity and brightness with Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multi-coated lenses.

Argon purged fog-proofing and IPX7 waterproof construction for durability.

Cost-effective with reliable performance and ease of adjustments.

Cons:

Some users find the scope bulky and heavy after extended use.

Minor issues with scope bases loosening due to recoil.

Occasional missing accessories like rings and shims in the packaging.

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5. Athlon Optics Midas TAC HD 6-24x50 F1 Scope

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For precision shooters seeking unparalleled image clarity and reliable performance, the Athlon Optics Midas TAC HD 6-24x50 F1 with its first focal plane reticle and HD glass is an outstanding choice.

This scope features advanced fully multi-coated optics, guaranteeing superior light transmission and vivid image quality.

The precision zero stop system allows for easy and accurate adjustments, while the waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof design guarantees durability in various conditions.

Weighing just 1.6 pounds and constructed from a robust 30mm aluminum tube, this scope is both lightweight and sturdy.

Users have praised its clear and sharp image quality, effortless zeroing, and exceptional value for money, making it a reliable option for those aiming to achieve high precision at 500 yards.

Best For: Precision shooters seeking superior image clarity and reliable performance in various conditions.

Pros:

HD glass and advanced fully multi-coated optics for excellent light transmission and vivid images.

Precision zero stop system for easy and accurate adjustments.

Durable, lightweight design with waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof features.

Cons:

Night vision not supported.

Higher price point compared to some other scopes.

Limited user base due to its specific high-precision focus.

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6. Bushnell Match PRO 6-24X50 RIFLESCOPE

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The Match PRO 6-24X50 RIFLESCOPE, featuring a First Focal Plane reticle and parallax adjustment down to 10 yards, is perfect for precision shooters seeking accurate holdovers and close target engagement.

Manufactured by Bushnell, a leading optics maker based in the USA, this scope offers a range of features that make it a standout choice. The 10-MIL turrets allow for fast counting and dialing, while the 18 MIL travel for windage and elevation enables precise zeroing and adjustments.

The tool-less turret reset simplifies adjustments, and the Deploy MIL Reticle provides reliable elevation and windage holds. With solid construction, matte black finish, and clear, distortion-free glass, this scope is a robust and valuable option for both competition and recreational shooting.

Best For: Precision shooters and competition participants like NRL22 competitors who demand accurate holdovers and close target engagement.

Pros:

First Focal Plane reticle for precise holdovers.

Clear glass with minimal distortion at high magnification.

Tool-less Turret Reset for easy and quick adjustments.

Cons:

Some units received without accessories or manual.

Reports of defective scopes from some users.

Potential QA issues compared to other brands.

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7. NIGHTFORCE NXS 5.5-22x56mm F2 Scope

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Nightforce NXS 5.5-22x56mm F2 is perfect for those seeking unparalleled clarity and precision in long-range shooting. Designed with a 56mm objective lens, this scope guarantees maximum clarity, making it ideal for hitting targets up to 500 yards and beyond.

The wide magnification range of 5.5-22x allows for precision accuracy at various distances, while the second focal plane (F2/SFP) maintains consistent reticle size. With a 30mm body tube diameter and a click value of .250 MOA, adjustments are both precise and reliable.

The scope features an internal adjustment range of 100 MOA for elevation and 60 MOA for windage, coupled with a parallax adjustment from 50 yards to infinity. Included accessories like rubber lens covers, a cleaning fob, and a sunshade enhance its usability.

Best For: Long-range shooters seeking maximum clarity and precision with a versatile magnification range.

Pros:

Wide magnification range (5.5-22x) for versatile shooting distances

High-quality glass and 56mm objective lens for exceptional clarity

ZeroStop elevation feature for quick and reliable adjustments

Cons:

Relatively heavy, which may affect portability

Higher price point compared to other scopes

Second focal plane (SFP) may not be preferred by all shooters

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8. Zeiss Conquest V4 6-24x50mm Riflescope

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If you’re a hunter seeking unparalleled clarity and precision, the Zeiss Conquest V4 6-24x50mm Riflescope with its illuminated ZMOA-1 reticle is your ideal companion.

This scope, crafted from durable aluminum, boasts a 30mm main tube and a second focal plane reticle, guaranteeing robust performance under various conditions.

Weighing just 2 pounds, it’s both waterproof and fogproof, ensuring reliability in diverse environments.

The adjustable .25 MOA turret and zero stop feature enhance accuracy and ease of use, while the exceptional glass quality and light-gathering capability guarantee superior low-light performance.

With an average rating of 4.6 stars from satisfied customers, this scope is praised for its clarity, ruggedness, and overall functionality, making it a worthy investment for serious hunters.

Best For: Hunters seeking exceptional clarity, precision, and reliability in various conditions.

Pros:

Superior glass quality and light-gathering capability

Robust construction and waterproof/fogproof design

Adjustable .25 MOA turret with zero stop feature

Cons:

Higher price point compared to some competitors

Limited to second focal plane reticle

Package weight is relatively heavy at 1.27 kilograms

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