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Top 8 Best Muzzleloader Scopes of 2024

When it comes to choosing the best muzzleloader scope for 2024, you’ve got plenty of impressive options that promise precision and clarity for every shot. Imagine enhancing your hunting experience with the Vortex Optics Crossfire II or the Leupold VX-Freedom, each offering specialized features to meet diverse shooting conditions.
Curious about what sets the SIG SAUER SIERRA3BDX apart or why the Burris Fullfield E1 is a favorite among hunters? You’ll want to explore the unique advantages each scope offers and how they might elevate your next outing.

Top 8 Best Muzzleloader 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. Vortex Optics Crossfire II Second Focal Plane Riflescopes

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If you’re looking for a scope with crystal-clear optics and robust durability, the Vortex Optics Crossfire II Second Focal Plane riflescope is an excellent choice for 2024.
This scope features an adjustable objective, Dead-Hold BDC reticle, and fully multi-coated lenses, guaranteeing you get clear and precise views in various conditions.
Constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum, it’s shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof, making it reliable in diverse environments. Additionally, the capped reset turrets are finger adjustable with MOA clicks, allowing for precise adjustments.
The Crossfire II offers long eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box, which, combined with a fast-focus eyepiece, ensures quick target acquisition. Backed by Vortex’s unlimited, unconditional lifetime warranty, this riflescope is both practical and dependable.
Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts and shooters looking for a durable and affordable riflescope with clear optics and versatile features.
Pros:
Adjustable objective and fully multi-coated lenses for clear views.
Shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof construction.
Long eye relief and fast-focus eyepiece for quick target acquisition.
Cons:
May be heavier compared to other scopes.
Some users might find the turrets slightly less precise.
Limited advanced features compared to higher-end models.

2. Leupold VX-Freedom Muzzleloader 3-9x40 Riflescope

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The Leupold VX-Freedom Muzzleloader 3-9x40 Riflescope, with its advanced optical system and durable American-made design, is perfect for hunters and shooting enthusiasts seeking reliable performance in various weather conditions. This scope features a second focal plane and a 3:1 zoom ratio, ensuring precision and flexibility across different shooting ranges.
Made to withstand the elements, it’s waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, guaranteeing durability in the field. The UltimateSlam reticle provides clear and accurate targeting, enhancing your shooting accuracy. Additionally, Leupold offers a Full Lifetime Guarantee, ensuring repair or replacement without needing proof of ownership.
With a strong reputation backed by a 4.7-star rating from 296 customer reviews, the VX-Freedom is a trusted choice for serious shooters.
Best For: Hunters and shooting enthusiasts seeking a durable, reliable, and high-performance riflescope for various weather conditions and shooting ranges.
Pros:
Advanced optical system ensures clarity and precision.
Durable, with waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof features.
Full Lifetime Guarantee with free repair or replacement, no proof of ownership required.
Cons:
Some customers experienced shipping and packaging issues.
Higher price point may be a consideration for some buyers.
Limited night vision capabilities.

3. Vortex Optics Diamondback 4-12x40 Riflescope

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Ideal for hunters and long-range shooters, the Vortex Optics Diamondback Riflescope (4-12x40) combines a versatile magnification range with a durable, shockproof design. This scope is perfect for big game and predator/varmint hunting, thanks to its Dead-Hold BDC reticle, which aids in hold-over estimation.
You’ll appreciate the fully multi-coated lenses that guarantee bright, clear images, and the metal-on-metal precision turrets that enhance accuracy.
Constructed from aluminum, the one-piece tube features a hard anodized finish, making it both shockproof and durable. Additionally, it’s Argon purged and O-ring sealed, offering fog proof and waterproof performance.
With a generous 3.1-inch eye relief and backed by Vortex’s unconditional lifetime warranty, the Diamondback Riflescope is a reliable choice for any shooter.
Best For: Hunters and long-range shooters looking for a versatile, durable, and high-performance riflescope.
Pros:
Dead-Hold BDC reticle for accurate hold-over estimation.
Fully multi-coated lenses for bright and clear images.
Argon purged and O-ring sealed for fog proof and waterproof performance.
Cons:
Some users may find the 3.1-inch eye relief insufficient for certain rifles.
Higher price point compared to some other scopes in the market.
Limited availability in certain regions.

4. SIG SAUER SIERRA3BDX 4.5-14x50mm Tactical Riflescope

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For hunters seeking precision and advanced technology, the SIG SAUER SIERRA3BDX Tactical Riflescope offers automatic holdover dots and the BDX Ballistic Data Xchange 2.0 system. Featuring a 4.5-14x50mm magnification range and SpectraCoats anti-reflection lens coatings, this scope guarantees clear and top-notch performance.
It’s equipped with Motion Activated Illumination and a KinETHIC kinetic energy transfer indicator for enhanced usability in diverse hunting scenarios. The Auto LevelPlex feature assists with longer shots, while its waterproof (IPX-7) and fog-proof design ensures reliability in all weather conditions.
Users have praised the ease of setup and accuracy, though some have noted challenges with diopter adjustment and level calibration. The scope is compatible with the KILO 2200 BDX rangefinder, further enhancing its precision capabilities.
Best For: Hunters and shooters seeking advanced technology and precision, especially those who value automatic holdover dots and ballistic data exchange systems.
Pros:
BDX Ballistic Data Xchange 2.0 for enhanced accuracy.
Motion Activated Illumination for improved usability.
Waterproof and fog-proof for all-weather reliability.
Cons:
Mixed reviews on customer service.
Challenges with diopter adjustment and level calibration.
Some users reported difficulties with the app linking process.

5. Burris Fullfield E1 Hunting Scope

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Looking for a dependable hunting scope with exceptional clarity and brightness? The Burris Fullfield E1 Hunting Scope is perfect for those who demand excellent performance and durability in their gear. Crafted by Burris, this scope features a matte finish and an aluminum build, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and robustness.
With a 3x to 9x magnification range and a 40mm objective lens, it provides versatile performance in various hunting environments. The etched reticle, windage capability, and zero-holding performance are frequently praised by users. Additionally, the Burris Signature Rings and Trumount bases contribute to its precision.
Suitable for unisex-adult users, this scope is designed for rifles using a Weaver Mount. Backed by the Burris Forever Warranty, it delivers long-lasting reliability.
Best For: Hunters who require a robust and clear optic for versatile performance in various environments.
Pros:
Exceptional clarity and brightness
Durable aluminum construction
Backed by Burris Forever Warranty
Cons:
No night vision capability
Limited to Weaver Mount compatibility
Performance may vary in extremely adverse weather conditions

6.
Bushnell Banner 3-9x50mm Dusk & Dawn Hunting Riflescope

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The Bushnell Banner 3-9x50mm Dusk & Dawn Hunting Riflescope, with its superb low-light performance and Dusk & Dawn Brightness multi-coated lenses, is perfect for hunters who need clear, bright optics during those critical early morning and late evening hours.
This scope’s 3-9x magnification and 50mm objective lens diameter guarantee excellent visibility and clarity, while the extended 6 inches of eye relief provide comfortable viewing. Fully multi-coated optics deliver high-contrast images, and the argon-purged, fog-proof construction ensures reliability in various weather conditions.
Waterproof with O-ring sealed optics, it’s versatile enough for big-game, varmint, and turkey hunting. Customers appreciate its clarity, ease of zeroing, and performance, rating it highly for quality and value.
Best For: Hunters who require clear and bright optics during early morning and late evening hours for various types of hunting.
Pros:
Excellent low-light performance with Dusk & Dawn Brightness multi-coated lenses.
Extended 6 inches of eye relief for comfortable viewing.
Waterproof and fog-proof construction ensures reliability in various weather conditions.
Cons:
Average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars may indicate some variability in user satisfaction.
Picatinny mount required, which may not be compatible with all rifles.
Best Sellers Rank suggests it may not be as popular or widely used as other scopes.

7. Bushnell Elite 4500 4-16x50 Hunting Riflescope

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Boasting a versatile magnification range of 4x-16x and an IPX7 waterproof rating, Bushnell’s Elite 4500 4-16x50 Hunting Riflescope is an excellent choice for hunters seeking reliability in diverse weather conditions.
The scope’s Ultra-Wide Band Coatings guarantee superior light transmission, providing you with clear, bright images even in low-light settings. Additionally, the Exo Barrier protective coating repels water, oil, dust, and debris, ensuring your lens stays clear.
The capped windage and elevation adjustments offer precise control, while the Multi-X Reticle in the second focal plane enhances target acquisition. Weighing in at 20 ounces, this scope combines durability with ease of use.
Overall, the Elite 4500 stands out for its build quality, clarity, and user-friendly features, making it a top contender for serious shooters.
Best For: Hunters seeking a reliable, durable riflescope with excellent image clarity and precise adjustments in various weather conditions.
Pros:
Versatile 4x-16x magnification range
Superior light transmission due to Ultra-Wide Band Coatings
Exo Barrier protective coating repels water, oil, dust, and debris
Cons:
Some users faced issues with sighting in the scope
Turret adjustments could be improved
No night vision capabilities

8. Genesis Scope 3-9x40mm Duplex Scope

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Ideal for hunters seeking exceptional optical quality at an affordable price, the Genesis Scope - 3-9x40mm Duplex Scope in Matte Black offers great clarity, resolution, and low-light performance. This scope features easy-to-turn rings and turrets, providing you with precise ¼” clicks for elevation and windage adjustments at 100 yards.
The generous eye relief and sleek aesthetics make it a practical and visually appealing choice for your hunting rifle. With good glass quality that guarantees excellent performance even in low-light situations, this scope is designed to improve your shooting accuracy.
The duplex reticle, flip caps, and 1” main tube diameter contribute to its functionality and protection. Additionally, the lifetime warranty ensures long-term reliability and customer satisfaction.
Best For: Hunters seeking an affordable scope with exceptional optical quality and low-light performance.
Pros:
Great clarity, resolution, and contrast at an affordable price.
Easy-to-turn elevation and windage turrets with ¼” clicks at 100 yards.
Generous eye relief and sleek aesthetics.
Cons:
No night vision capability.
Limited customer reviews available.
Best Sellers Rank indicates it is not highly popular.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Muzzleloader Scopes

When selecting a muzzleloader scope, you need to take into account several key factors to guarantee top performance and reliability.
Pay attention to optical quality, which impacts clarity and brightness, and the magnification range, which determines how well you can zero in on your target.
Additionally, assess the reticle options for precise aiming, the durability features for withstanding harsh conditions, and the eye relief to maintain comfort and safety during use.

Optical Quality

To guarantee your muzzleloader scope performs at its best, consider the optical quality, which hinges on factors like lens coatings, glass quality, and reticle design. High optical quality ensures that your scope provides clarity, resolution, and contrast, essential for accurate shot placement.
First, examine the lens coatings. High-quality lenses with multi-coatings enhance light transmission and reduce glare, resulting in a clearer image. This is particularly important in low-light conditions, where every bit of light gathered can make a substantial difference.
Next, focus on the glass quality. Premium glass materials reduce distortions and improve overall image sharpness and fidelity. This ensures that you can see your target clearly, even at longer distances.

Magnification Range

High optical quality is just one piece of the puzzle; you’ll also need to take into account the magnification range to make sure your muzzleloader scope meets your specific shooting needs. Typically, muzzleloader scopes offer magnification ranges from 3x to 16x. For long-range shooting, a higher magnification range, such as 12x to 16x, will allow you to zero in on distant targets with precision.
On the other hand, a lower magnification range, like 3x to 9x, provides versatility across various hunting scenarios, making sure you can adapt to different distances and conditions.
Choosing the right magnification range depends heavily on your intended use. If you’re into precision shooting, a higher magnification scope may be more advantageous. However, for general hunting or target practice, a mid-range magnification might offer the flexibility you need. Additionally, opting for a scope with adjustable magnification settings can be helpful, allowing you to adapt quickly to changing situations.
It’s important to balance the need for higher magnification with the field of view. A wider field of view ensures you can acquire and track targets effectively, which is as essential as the magnification itself.

Reticle Options

Your choice of reticle can greatly impact your shooting accuracy and overall experience with a muzzleloader scope. When selecting a reticle, consider options like duplex, Bullet Drop Compensator (BDC), Minute of Angle (MOA), or illuminated reticles.
Duplex reticles are simple and versatile, ideal for various shooting scenarios. BDC reticles, on the other hand, feature holdover points that compensate for bullet drop, enhancing accuracy over longer distances.
MOA reticles provide precise measurement capabilities, making them suitable for long-range precision shooting. If you often shoot in low-light conditions, illuminated reticles can greatly improve visibility and target acquisition.
For those who need quick target acquisition, reticles with range estimation features and subtensions are invaluable, aiding in fast and accurate shooting.
It’s essential to choose a reticle that complements your specific shooting style and preferences, whether you’re hunting, target shooting, or focusing on long-range precision. Additionally, consider how easily you can use the reticle for quick adjustments and its compatibility with your shooting environment.

Durability Features

Ensuring your muzzleloader scope’s durability is vital for maintaining performance in harsh shooting environments. You’ll want to look for scopes that are both shockproof and waterproof, as these features guarantee the scope can withstand the rigors of various weather conditions and physical impacts. Fogproof capabilities are also critical, preventing internal fogging and maintaining clarity in humid or cold environments.
Consider selecting scopes constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum. This material is known for its ruggedness and longevity, providing a solid foundation that can endure tough conditions. Additionally, scopes with hard anodized finishes offer scratch resistance and extra protection, ensuring they remain in top condition even after extensive use.
Fully multi-coated lenses are another key feature to seek out. These lenses improve light transmission, which enhances visibility, and offer scratch resistance, thereby contributing to overall lens durability.

Eye Relief

When selecting a muzzleloader scope, eye relief is an essential factor to guarantee both comfort and safety while shooting. Eye relief refers to the distance between the eyepiece of the scope and your eye, ensuring a comfortable viewing experience.
For muzzleloaders, which generate significant recoil, a longer eye relief is particularly advantageous. This feature not only prevents scope eye injuries but also allows for quick and efficient target acquisition without compromising on comfort.
Typically, muzzleloader scopes require a minimum eye relief of 3 inches or more. This distance accommodates the rifle’s unique characteristics and the powerful recoil generated upon firing. Ensuring adequate eye relief is vital, as it enhances shooting accuracy and prevents any potential discomfort or injury while using the scope.
In addition to safety, proper eye relief contributes to a more stable and enjoyable shooting experience. You won’t have to strain or reposition yourself frequently, which can be distracting and detrimental to your accuracy.
When choosing a scope, always prioritize models offering sufficient eye relief to match your muzzleloader’s specific requirements, thereby ensuring both comfort and precision with every shot.

Price Considerations

Price considerations play an important role in choosing the right muzzleloader scope, often determining the balance between features, quality, and budget. When evaluating scopes, you’ll notice a wide range of prices, from budget-friendly options to high-end models. It’s vital to find a scope that offers the best value for its price, meaning it should balance features, quality, and performance within your financial constraints.
Carefully compare the cost of additional accessories, such as mounting hardware or lens covers, as these can impact the overall price. Higher-priced scopes may come with advanced features like illuminated reticles or higher magnification levels, which might enhance your shooting experience but aren’t always necessary for every hunting scenario. It’s important to assess whether these features align with your specific needs.
Moreover, consider the warranty and customer service provided by the manufacturer. A robust warranty can add significant value to your purchase, offering peace of mind in case of any issues or defects. Reliable customer service ensures that any problems you encounter are addressed promptly, further justifying the investment in a higher-priced scope.
Taking these elements into account will help you make a well-informed decision.

Conclusion

In 2024, choosing the perfect muzzleloader scope requires careful consideration of your shooting needs and preferences. The top options, including the Vortex Optics Crossfire II and the Leupold VX-Freedom Muzzleloader, offer cutting-edge technology and unmatched clarity.
Whether you prioritize advanced features like the SIG SAUER SIERRA3BDX’s Ballistic Data Xchange or the durability of the Bushnell Elite 4500, there’s a scope tailored for every enthusiast.
By understanding your requirements, you can select the ideal scope for precise and clear shots every time.
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