As you step into the world of precision shooting, you’re likely wondering what sets the best sniper scopes apart from the rest. You’re about to discover the top performers that excel in optical clarity, durability, and precision.

From the Leupold VX-3HD to the Primary Arms SLX, these eight exceptional scopes boast high-quality glass, fully multi-coated lenses, and varying magnification ranges to guarantee clear target visibility and accuracy in diverse shooting conditions. But what specific features make them stand out, and which one will suit your needs best?

Top 8 Best Sniper Scopes on the Market 2024

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Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x40mm Riflescope⁠

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Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen I First Focal Plane Riflescopes⁠

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Bushnell Banner 6-18x50mm Riflescope⁠

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Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 First Focal Plane Riflescopes⁠

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NIGHTFORCE NXS 5.5-22x56mm Scope⁠

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Monstrum Hornet 6-24x50 FFP Rifle Scope⁠

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Primary Arms SLX 5-25x56 Riflescopes⁠

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Trijicon TR23 AccuPoint 5-20x50 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. Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x40mm Riflescope

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If you’re a hunter seeking a sniper scope that offers quick elevation adjustment and exceptional light transmission, the Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x40mm Riflescope is an excellent choice, thanks to its CDS-ZL feature and Elite Optical System. With these features, you’ll experience effortless elevation adjustments and unparalleled light transmission, ensuring you get the most out of your hunting experience.

The scope’s low-profile throw lever also allows for seamless magnification changes, and its rugged aluminum construction makes it waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. Made in the USA, this scope is backed by Leupold’s Full Lifetime Guarantee, so you can trust that your investment will be protected for a lifetime.

Best For: Hunters seeking a high-quality riflescope with advanced features for accurate and effortless shooting.

Pros:

Offers quick elevation adjustment with CDS-ZL feature and exceptional light transmission with Elite Optical System

Rugged aluminum construction makes it waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof

Backed by Leupold’s Full Lifetime Guarantee for a lifetime of protection

Cons:

Some users experienced issues with incorrect product receipt from Amazon

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

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For shooters requiring a premium, shockproof, and customizable sniper scope, the Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen I First Focal Plane Riflescope is an excellent choice, boasting a one-piece 30mm tube and EBR-2C ranging reticle.

You’ll appreciate the XD glass, fiber optic turret rotation indicator, and O-ring seals, ensuring a reliable and durable performance. Additionally, the argon gas purging and shockproof design make it suitable for harsh environments.

With its impressive features and excellent clarity, this scope is ideal for SPR or Recce type rifles, offering a great balance of performance and value.

Best For: Shooters requiring a premium, shockproof, and customizable sniper scope, particularly for SPR or Recce type rifles.

Pros:

Excellent clarity and bright optics

Sturdy construction and clear turrets

Smooth magnification adjustment and generous eye relief

Cons:

Small exit pupil at maximum magnification

Small reticle size at lower magnifications

Some users experienced issues with incorrect product receipt from Amazon

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3.
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Bushnell Banner 6-18x50mm Riflescope

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With its impressive 18x magnification and 50mm objective, the Bushnell Banner Riflescope is a top contender for serious shooters who demand crystal-clear views and precise targeting at long ranges.

You’ll appreciate the Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multi-coated lenses, which guarantee excellent low-light performance.

As a user, you’ll find the fully multi-coated optics and argon-purged fog-proofing provide a clear view even in harsh conditions.

The IPX7 waterproof construction and no-tool adjustments make it a reliable choice for your rifle.

Whether you’re into long-range varmint, silhouette, or target shooting, or hog hunting, this scope is built to perform.

Best For: Serious shooters who demand crystal-clear views and precise targeting at long ranges, particularly for long-range varmint, silhouette, or target shooting, or hog hunting.

Pros:

Excellent low-light performance with Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multi-coated lenses

Clear and accurate views up to 600 yards with fully multi-coated optics and argon-purged fog-proofing

Reliable and holds zero with IPX7 waterproof construction and no-tool adjustments

Cons:

Adds bulk to the rifle

Limited elevation adjustment

Scope bases tend to loosen with recoil

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4. Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 First Focal Plane Riflescopes

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Your search for a versatile sniper scope that excels in low-light conditions ends with the Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 First Focal Plane Riflescopes, featuring an illuminated reticle that guarantees you stay on target even in the darkest environments.

This scope boasts a first focal plane design, allowing for precise reticle adjustments, and its fully multicoated optics provide a bright, clear image. The aircraft-grade aluminum tube and XPL coating offer durability and protection. You’ll appreciate the precision True Zero Stop and the etched reticle on glass for added reliability.

With a 50mm objective lens diameter and 4x magnification, this scope is perfect for hunting and other shooting disciplines.

Best For: Hunters and shooters who need a versatile sniper scope that excels in low-light conditions and requires precise reticle adjustments.

Pros:

Clear image quality and easy reticle readability

Solid tracking and generous eye box with audible and tactile turret clicks

Durable aircraft-grade aluminum tube with XPL coating for lens protection

Cons:

Issues with high-power darkness and sight box location

Busy reticle and challenges with turret adjustments and zero stop setting

Limited field of view and reticle size

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5. NIGHTFORCE NXS 5.5-22x56mm Scope

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This Nightforce NXS 5.5-22x56mm Hunting Gun Scope stands out as an excellent choice for long-range shooters who demand precision accuracy, thanks to its 56mm objective lens that provides maximum clarity and resolution.

You’ll appreciate the scope’s ability to deliver precision accuracy at long ranges while remaining effective at close ranges. With a magnification range of 5.5-22x and a second focal plane, this scope is designed for serious shooters.

You’ll also appreciate the scope’s durability, featuring a 30mm body tube diameter and weighing 32.0 oz. Additionally, the scope comes with a range of accessories, including rubber lens covers, a cleaning cloth, and a multi-tool, making it an excellent value for serious shooters.

Best For: Long-range shooters who demand precision accuracy and durability in a hunting gun scope.

Pros:

Offers precision accuracy at long ranges and remains effective at close ranges

Features a 56mm objective lens for maximum clarity and resolution

Comes with a range of accessories, including rubber lens covers, a cleaning cloth, and a multi-tool

Cons:

Some users noted issues with instructions

No other notable drawbacks mentioned in user reviews

No additional cons mentioned in the product description

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6. Monstrum Hornet 6-24x50 FFP Rifle Scope

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You’ll appreciate the Monstrum Hornet 6-24x50 FFP Rifle Scope’s adjustable 6-24x magnification with a throw lever, making it an ideal choice for shooters who need a scope that can adapt to various shooting scenarios.

This scope’s first focal plane X-Tree reticle with 6 levels of illumination will provide you with a clear sight picture, and the 1/8 MOA windage and adjustment knobs will allow for precise adjustments.

Additionally, the zero stop mechanism for elevation turret guarantees that you can quickly return to your zero point. With a lifetime guarantee and included high-profile scope rings, detachable sunshade, and lens covers, this scope offers great value for its price.

Best For: Long-range shooters and hunters who need a reliable and adaptable scope for various shooting scenarios.

Pros:

Solid build quality and wide scope rings for a secure fit

Clear reticle with numbered hash marks and reliable turrets with zero stop

Good quality optics with smooth zoom action and clear glass

Cons:

Optical clarity suffers at full magnification

Issues with illuminated reticle performance

Limited elevation adjustment in some cases

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Primary Arms SLX 5-25x56 Riflescopes

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With its 5-25x magnification range and 56mm objective lens diameter, the Primary Arms SLX 5-25x56 Riflescope delivers exceptional clarity and precision, making it an ideal choice for long-range shooters who demand excellent performance.

You’ll appreciate the 4 inches of eye relief, which provides a comfortable shooting experience, and the 5-degree field of view that allows you to quickly acquire targets.

Constructed from durable aluminum, this scope is built to withstand the rigors of the field, and its limited lifetime warranty provides peace of mind.

At 34.6 ounces and 17.45 x 5.25 x 4.45 inches in size, this scope is compact and lightweight, making it easy to mount on your rifle.

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8. Trijicon TR23 AccuPoint 5-20x50 Riflescope

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When speed and accuracy are crucial, the Trijicon TR23 AccuPoint 5-20x50 Riflescope stands out as a top choice for hunters who demand exceptional target acquisition and visibility.

You’ll appreciate the advanced fiber-optics and tritium aiming-point illumination, which provides a dual-illumination system for brightness adjustment and manual brightness override.

The superior quality lenses guarantee zero distortion, and the aircraft-grade aluminum housing ensures durability.

With a second focal plane reticle and zero forward emission, this scope is designed for peak performance.

As a hunter, you’ll benefit from the battery-free illumination and compatibility with rifles, making it an excellent option for those who require precision and reliability.

Best For: Hunters who demand exceptional target acquisition and visibility, particularly those who require precision and reliability.

Pros:

Exceptional target acquisition speed and visibility

Superior quality lenses with zero distortion and clear glass

Durable aircraft-grade aluminum housing with battery-free illumination

Cons:

Mixed opinions on reticle adjustments and magnification range

No specific features for beginners or casual hunters

Some users may find the scope’s weight and size to be a drawback

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Factors to Consider When Choosing Sniper Scopes

When selecting a sniper scope, you’re faced with a multitude of options, each with its unique features and benefits. To make an informed decision, you’ll need to carefully consider several key factors that will impact your shooting experience.

You’ll want to evaluate the optical clarity, magnification range, objective lens diameter, eye relief, and reticle type to make sure you’re getting the right scope for your needs.

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Optical Clarity Matters

Your ability to hit your target at long distances hinges on the optical clarity of your sniper scope, as it’s what allows you to clearly see and accurately engage with your target.

When choosing a sniper scope, optical clarity is vital, as it directly impacts target visibility and accuracy. To guarantee maximum optical clarity, look for scopes with high-quality glass and lens coatings that reduce glare, improve light transmission, and minimize distortion.

Fully multi-coated lenses are a necessity, as they provide maximum light transmission and sharp image quality. Additionally, take into account factors like lens diameter, resolution, and anti-reflective coatings, which all play a significant role in determining optical clarity.

You’ll also want to factor in how magnification power, exit pupil size, and reticle design quality influence optical clarity. By prioritizing optical clarity, you’ll be able to accurately engage targets at long distances, making it an important aspect to keep in mind when choosing a sniper scope.

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Magnification Range Considerations

Decide on the most suitable magnification range for your shooting needs by considering the trade-offs between low and high power settings. You’ll need to balance versatility with precision, as lower magnification settings provide a wider field of view, while higher settings offer more precise target acquisition.

Variable magnification ranges are ideal, allowing you to adapt to changing shooting conditions and distances. When evaluating scopes, assess the clarity and resolution at different magnification levels to secure a clear sight picture and target acquisition. Keep in mind that higher magnification ranges may impact factors like field of view, exit pupil size, and image brightness.

For instance, higher magnification can reduce the field of view, making it harder to track moving targets. Conversely, lower magnification may sacrifice precision for a wider view. By considering these factors, you’ll find the best magnification range for your specific shooting needs, whether it’s long-range precision or close-quarters combat.

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Objective Lens Diameter

How does the size of the objective lens impact your shooting experience, and what’re the key considerations when choosing the right diameter for your sniper scope?

A larger objective lens diameter allows more light to enter the scope, resulting in brighter images, especially in low-light conditions. However, it also impacts the field of view and the exit pupil diameter, affecting how much of the target you can see and how bright the image appears.

On the other hand, a larger objective lens may increase the weight and bulk of the scope, impacting the balance and maneuverability of the rifle. When choosing a sniper scope, consider the trade-off between a larger objective lens for better light transmission and a smaller lens for a more compact and lightweight setup.

Common objective lens diameters for sniper scopes range from 40mm to 56mm. You should weigh the benefits of a larger lens against the potential drawbacks, considering your specific shooting needs and preferences.

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Eye Relief Importance

When selecting a sniper scope, understanding the importance of eye relief is essential, as it directly impacts your shooting comfort, safety, and overall performance.

Eye relief is the distance between your eye and the scope where you can see a full, clear image without black rings. Sufficient eye relief helps prevent scope eye injuries and enhances comfort during extended use.

You’ll want to take into account the eye relief of a scope based on your shooting style and firearm. For example, if you’re using a high-caliber rifle with heavy recoil, a longer eye relief is advantageous to prevent scope bite.

Typically, eye relief ranges from 3-4 inches among scopes, so it’s crucial to understand the specifications of your scope. By doing so, you’ll maintain a proper shooting position and avoid injuries.

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Reticle Type Selection

Your shooting style and preferences dictate the reticle type that’s right for you, with various options available to suit different needs. As a sniper, you’ll want to take into account the type of reticle that complements your shooting style. MIL-Dot, BDC, and MOA reticles are popular options, each with their strengths and weaknesses. When selecting a reticle, think about your shooting distance, target size, and the level of precision you need.

First Focal Plane (FFP) reticles change in size with magnification, maintaining consistent subtensions for accurate ranging and holdovers. On the other hand, Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticles remain constant in size regardless of magnification, offering a clear view but changing subtensions. Reflect on whether you prioritize long-range precision, quick target acquisition, or holdover adjustments.

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Illumination Options

Having selected a reticle type that complements your shooting style, it’s now essential to explore illumination options in your sniper scope, which can greatly impact your performance in low-light environments. You’ll want to examine scopes that offer adjustable brightness levels, allowing you to customize the illumination to suit your environment.

Some high-end scopes feature fiber-optic or tritium-based illumination systems, eliminating the need for batteries. These systems provide a reliable and consistent source of illumination, ensuring your reticle remains visible even in the darkest conditions.

Additionally, look for scopes with manual brightness override features, which allow you to adjust the illumination settings manually to suit your preferences. Illuminated reticles can greatly enhance target acquisition speed and accuracy in challenging lighting situations, making them an essential feature for sniper operations.

When choosing an illumination option, consider the type of environment you’ll be operating in and the level of brightness you need. By selecting the right illumination option, you can improve your performance and gain a tactical advantage in low-light environments.

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Durability and Build Quality

You’ll want a sniper scope that can withstand the rigors of the field, and that starts with a durable construction that can absorb shock, water, and extreme temperatures. Look for scopes made from aircraft-grade aluminum, which provides exceptional durability and longevity.

Additionally, consider scopes with essential features like shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof to guarantee reliability in various conditions. A robust tube design and sealed optics are also vital to withstand recoil and environmental elements.

Moreover, high-quality lenses and coatings are necessary for clarity, brightness, and resistance to scratches. When choosing a sniper scope, opt for one with a proven track record of ruggedness and longevity in real-world shooting scenarios.