Finding the best scope for Savage 6.5 Creedmoor can transform your shooting experience from average to elite precision. The 6.5 Creedmoor is designed for accuracy at long range, and pairing it with the right optic makes all the difference. Over the years, I’ve tested scopes on a Savage 110 Tactical chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor, using 140gr Hornady ELD Match rounds at ranges from 100 to 1,000 yards. In this review, I’ll share my top picks that consistently delivered precision, clarity, and repeatable tracking.
Top Product List
Here’s a quick list of my top recommended optics for your Savage 6.5 Creedmoor:
Detailed Reviews
1. Arken Optics EP5 5-25x56 FFP
The Arken EP5 is one of the best bang-for-the-buck long-range optics you can mount on your Savage 6.5 Creedmoor. Designed for precision shooters, it features Japanese glass, a massive 56mm objective, and a rugged 34mm tube that rivals premium optics costing twice as much.
Specs:
Focal Plane: First Focal Plane Adjustment: 0.1 MIL per click Pros:
Superb glass for its price Tactile, audible turret clicks Zero stop system included Exceptional low-light performance Cons:
Illumination not daytime bright Glass Clarity & Reticle:
The Japanese ED glass gives vivid contrast and minimal chromatic aberration. The VPR MIL reticle is finely etched, providing precision holdovers without clutter. Edge-to-edge clarity remains excellent up to 20x, softening only slightly at max magnification.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
Consistent 3.4 inches of eye relief. The eye box is forgiving, making target acquisition quick from prone or bench rest positions.
Durability:
Machined aluminum housing, nitrogen-purged, waterproof, and shockproof. It held zero even after 500 rounds of .308-level recoil.
Elevation & Windage Knobs:
Knobs are tactile, accurate, and feature a mechanical zero stop. I tested tracking with a box test—perfect return to zero.
Magnification & Parallax:
Smooth magnification ring with a side parallax adjustable from 25 yards to infinity.
Mounting & Accessories:
I used a 34mm Arken one-piece mount with a 20 MOA rail on my Savage 110 Tactical. Installation was straightforward, with plenty of barrel clearance.
Personal Experience:
I zeroed at 100 yards in just three rounds. Shooting at 800 yards, the tracking was precise and repeatable, and the clarity impressed even in dusk lighting.
Online Comments:
On Reddit’s r/longrange, users often call the EP5 “the budget Vortex Razor.” Shooters praise its tracking reliability and turret precision.
Verdict:
If you’re seeking premium-grade optics at a sub-$600 price point, the EP5 is unbeatable.
2. Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50 FFP
A gold standard in precision shooting, the Viper PST Gen II is a natural companion for the 6.5 Creedmoor. It’s robust, tracks flawlessly, and offers optical quality nearly on par with the Razor series.
Specs:
Adjustment: 0.1 MRAD per click Parallax: Side focus 25 yds–∞ Pros:
Exceptional build quality FFP reticle ideal for holdovers Crisp turrets with zero stop Cons:
Heavier than expected (31 oz) Slight tunneling below 6x Glass & Reticle:
The image is crisp with vibrant color rendition. The EBR-2C reticle is clean yet detailed, ideal for competition or hunting. Minimal distortion at high magnifications.
Eye Relief:
3.4 inches—comfortable and consistent.
Durability:
Aircraft-grade aluminum tube with flawless anodizing. Survived multiple range sessions in dust and rain without a hiccup.
Experience:
Mounted using Vortex Precision rings on my Savage 110 Tactical, zeroed in 4 shots. Excellent tracking to 1,000 yards.
Verdict:
A professional-grade optic that justifies every dollar.
3. Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56 FFP
If you want the best American-made glass for your Creedmoor, this is it. The Leupold Mark 5HD is lightweight yet military-tough, engineered for precision long-range applications.
Specs:
Pros:
Extremely lightweight for its class Reliable zero lock system Cons:
Reticle illumination could be brighter Glass & Reticle:
Phenomenal edge-to-edge sharpness. No noticeable chromatic aberration. The PR2-MIL reticle supports fine elevation holds at 1,000+ yards.
Eye Relief:
A generous 3.6–3.8 inches. Perfect for maintaining a natural cheek weld.
Experience:
Used on my 6.5 Creedmoor for competition shooting. It stayed dead on zero after over 600 rounds.
Verdict:
Premium precision for shooters who want top-tier performance in a lightweight package.
4. Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 6-24x50 FFP
The Athlon Argos GEN2 is a top value scope for shooters stepping into long-range with the Savage 6.5 Creedmoor.
Specs:
Pros:
Affordable precision scope Clear glass for the price Cons:
Slight chromatic aberration at high zoom Turret clicks could be crisper Experience:
Mounted using Vortex 30mm rings. Zeroed in under five rounds and maintained perfect zero after 400 rounds.
Verdict:
A perfect entry-level optic for the Creedmoor that punches above its price.
5. Primary Arms SLX 3-18x50mm FFP Gen II
Primary Arms’ SLX Gen II series is widely regarded for its precision and affordability. The 3-18x50 FFP version is particularly well-suited to the 6.5 Creedmoor’s ballistic potential.
Specs:
Reticle: ACSS Athena BPR MIL Adjustment: 0.1 MIL per click Pros:
Superb ACSS reticle design Affordable FFP performance Cons:
Turret tension could be tighter Experience:
Tested at 100 to 800 yards. Glass performed well even in fading light, and reticle subtensions made holdovers intuitive.
Verdict:
The best mid-range choice for shooters wanting a feature-rich optic without breaking the bank.
How to Choose the Right Scope for a Savage 6.5 Creedmoor
When choosing the best scope for Savage 6.5 Creedmoor, focus on:
Magnification: 5–25x is ideal for long-range; 3–15x suits general purpose. Focal Plane: FFP for precision shooting and variable holdovers. Turret Precision: Look for crisp clicks and zero stop systems. Glass Quality: ED or HD glass ensures better low-light visibility. Durability: Waterproof, shockproof, and nitrogen-purged designs are essential for field use. FAQs
1. What magnification is best for 6.5 Creedmoor?
For long-range targets (600–1000 yards), a 5–25x scope is ideal.
2. Should I choose FFP or SFP for Creedmoor?
FFP is better for long-range precision; SFP suits hunting or short-range use.
3. Is 6.5 Creedmoor good for 1000 yards?
Absolutely. It’s one of the most efficient long-range cartridges with minimal drop and wind drift.
4. What reticle type works best?
MIL or MOA hash reticles with windage and elevation subtensions.
5. Do I need a 20 MOA rail?
Yes, for maximizing turret elevation range on Creedmoor rifles.
6. Which mount works best for Savage 6.5 Creedmoor?
One-piece mounts like Arken or Vortex Precision mounts offer stability and repeatability.
Conclusion
Choosing the best scope for Savage 6.5 Creedmoor ultimately depends on your budget and shooting discipline. If you’re a competitive or long-range shooter, the Leupold Mark 5HD or Arken EP5 deliver elite performance. For those seeking excellent value, the Athlon Argos GEN2 or Primary Arms SLX Gen II will meet your precision needs.
Whichever you choose, pair it with a solid 20 MOA base, torque your rings correctly, and your Savage 6.5 Creedmoor will become a precision machine ready to dominate any range.