The .480 Ruger is a powerful cartridge designed for big game hunting and long-range shooting. Selecting the right scope for this firearm is crucial to harnessing its full potential.
In this article, I will explore the best scopes for the .480 Ruger, providing detailed reviews of top products, a guide on how to choose the best scope, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Top 6 Best Scopes for 480 Ruger on the Market
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. Leupold VX-3i 4.5-14x50mm
Specifications:
Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm Eye Relief: 4.4-3.6 inches Field of View: 19.1-7.4 ft/100 yds Best Features:
Twilight Max Light Management System Side focus parallax adjustment Pros:
Excellent low-light performance Cons:
Experience: The Leupold VX-3i offers remarkable clarity and precision. The Twilight Max Light Management System is particularly impressive, enhancing visibility during dawn and dusk. This scope's robust construction ensures it can handle the recoil of the .480 Ruger, making it an excellent choice for big game hunting.
Customer Comments:
"I love the clarity and brightness, even in low-light conditions." "It's a bit pricey, but worth every penny for serious hunters." 2. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7x32mm
Specifications:
Objective Lens Diameter: 32mm Field of View: 42-12.6 ft/100 yds Best Features:
Fully multi-coated lenses Second focal plane reticle Pros:
Cons:
Limited magnification range Experience: The Vortex Crossfire II is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality. Its lightweight design makes it ideal for hunters who prefer a more compact setup. The scope performs well in various lighting conditions, though its magnification range is somewhat limited for longer distances.
Customer Comments:
"Great value for the price. Perfect for my needs." "Lightweight and easy to use, but not the best for very long-range shots." 3. Nikon ProStaff P3 2-7x32
Specifications:
Objective Lens Diameter: 32mm Field of View: 33.8-9.5 ft/100 yds Best Features:
Fully multi-coated optical system Shockproof and waterproof Pros:
Cons:
Limited magnification range Experience: The Nikon ProStaff P3 is another excellent choice for those on a budget. Its BDC reticle is particularly useful for compensating bullet drop, enhancing accuracy over various distances. Despite lacking side focus, the scope delivers consistently clear and bright images.
Customer Comments:
"The BDC reticle is a game-changer for long-range shots." "Solid scope for the price, though it could use a bit more magnification." 4. Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn 3-9x40
Specifications:
Objective Lens Diameter: 40mm Field of View: 40-14 ft/100 yds Best Features:
Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multi-coated lenses Pros:
Excellent low-light performance Cons:
Eye relief could be better Experience: The Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn is designed for low-light hunting, making it a great fit for early morning or late evening hunts. Its performance in dim conditions is impressive, and the overall build quality is robust enough to withstand the recoil of the .480 Ruger.
Customer Comments:
"Outstanding performance in low light. Perfect for dawn and dusk hunts." "Eye relief is a bit short, but otherwise a fantastic scope for the price." 5. Burris Fullfield II 3-9x40
Specifications:
Objective Lens Diameter: 40mm Eye Relief: 3.1-3.4 inches Field of View: 33-13 ft/100 yds Best Features:
Hi-Lume multi-coated lenses Positive steel-on-steel adjustments Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof Pros:
Cons:
Eye relief could be longer Experience: The Burris Fullfield II stands out for its excellent clarity and reliable performance. The Hi-Lume multi-coated lenses ensure bright and crisp images, making it a dependable choice for various hunting scenarios. The build quality is robust, providing confidence in its durability.
Customer Comments:
"This scope is a workhorse. It’s reliable and clear." "Could use a bit more eye relief, but otherwise no complaints." 6. Trijicon AccuPoint 3-9x40
Specifications:
Objective Lens Diameter: 40mm Field of View: 33.8-11.3 ft/100 yds Best Features:
Fiber optic/ Tritium illuminated reticle Multi-layer coated lenses Waterproof and shockproof Pros:
Excellent reticle illumination Cons:
Experience: The Trijicon AccuPoint offers top-tier performance with its illuminated reticle, which is ideal for low-light conditions. The combination of fiber optics and Tritium ensures the reticle is always visible, making target acquisition swift and accurate. Its durable construction is well-suited for the .480 Ruger.
Customer Comments:
"The illuminated reticle is perfect for low-light conditions." "Pricey, but you get what you pay for in quality and performance." How to Choose the Best Scope for .480 Ruger
Magnification
Consider the typical distance you'll be shooting. A variable magnification scope, such as 3-9x, provides flexibility for both short and long-range shots.
Objective Lens Diameter
A larger objective lens (e.g., 50mm) gathers more light, offering better visibility in low-light conditions. However, larger lenses can add weight.
Reticle Type
Choose a reticle that suits your needs. BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation) reticles are useful for long-range shooting, while illuminated reticles enhance visibility in low light.
Eye Relief
Given the substantial recoil of the .480 Ruger, adequate eye relief (3 inches or more) is crucial to avoid injury.
Durability
Ensure the scope is waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof to withstand the harsh conditions of hunting and the recoil of the .480 Ruger.
Price
Consider your budget. Higher-end scopes offer advanced features and better build quality, but there are excellent mid-range options available as well.
FAQs
What magnification is best for a .480 Ruger scope?
A magnification range of 3-9x is typically sufficient for most hunting scenarios with the .480 Ruger, providing flexibility for both close and long-range shots.
How important is eye relief for a .480 Ruger scope?
Eye relief is very important due to the significant recoil of the .480 Ruger. Aim for at least 3 inches of eye relief to ensure safety and comfort.
Are illuminated reticles necessary for a .480 Ruger scope?
Illuminated reticles are not necessary but can be very helpful for low-light conditions, improving target acquisition and accuracy.
Can I use a scope designed for rifles on a .480 Ruger handgun?
Yes, many rifle scopes can be used on a .480 Ruger handgun, but ensure the scope can handle the recoil and provides sufficient eye relief.
How do I maintain my scope to ensure longevity?
Regularly clean the lenses with a microfiber cloth and lens cleaner. Ensure the scope is properly mounted and check for any signs of damage or wear regularly. Store your scope in a dry, cool place and consider using scope covers to protect the lenses when not in use.
Conclusion
Choosing the right scope for your .480 Ruger can significantly enhance your shooting experience, providing better accuracy and confidence in the field. The Leupold VX-3i 4.5-14x50mm stands out as a top-tier option with its exceptional clarity and robust construction, perfect for serious hunters. For those on a budget, the Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7x32mm offers great value without compromising on quality.
Each scope listed in this guide has its unique strengths, catering to different needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize low-light performance, lightweight design, or advanced reticle features, there's a scope here that will meet your requirements. Remember to consider factors like magnification, objective lens diameter, reticle type, eye relief, durability, and price when making your decision.