Skip to content
Gallery
Rifle scopes
More
Share
Explore

Top 8 Best Scopes for 100 Yards of 2024

When you’re aiming to hit that perfect shot at 100 yards, the right scope is essential. The top eight scopes offer a blend of precision and clarity, tailored for various shooting styles. From the versatile UTG BugBuster to the reliable Leupold VX-Freedom, each scope has unique features that can enhance your accuracy and overall shooting experience.
Whether you prefer mil-dot, BDC, or quick target acquisition reticles, these options cover all your needs. Curious about which scope might best suit your style and elevate your shooting game? Let’s explore the distinctive features each one brings to the table.

Top 8 Best Scopes for 100 Yards on the Market 2024

UTG 3-9X32 1 BugBuster Scope
UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope
Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm Dusk & Dawn Hunting Riflescope
Vortex Optics Diamondback 4-12x40 Riflescope
Monstrum 3-9x32 Rifle Scope
CVLIFE 3-9x40 Compact Rifle Scope
Leupold VX-Freedom 4-12x40mm Riflescope
Pinty 3-9X40 Riflescope
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.
UTG 3-9X32 1 BugBuster Scope

The_8_Best_Scopes_for_100_Yards_Precision_and_Clarity_for_Every_Shot_0001.jpg
If you’re looking for a versatile and durable scope for 100-yard shooting, the UTG 3-9X32 1 BugBuster with its adjustable objective and red/green dual illumination is an excellent choice.
This scope offers a range of features that enhance its performance and usability. Built on a True Strength Platform, it’s completely sealed and nitrogen-filled, making it shockproof, fogproof, and rainproof.
The one-inch tube with emerald coating guarantees maximum light transmission, while the premium zero lockable and resettable turrets provide precise adjustments. A range-estimating mil-dot reticle aids in accurate targeting, and the adjustable objective allows for parallax adjustment from 3 yards to infinity.
This scope also boasts a large field of view and accommodating eye relief, ensuring a clear sight picture.
Best For: Shooters looking for a versatile and durable scope with excellent features for 100-yard shooting.
Pros:
Built on True Strength Platform for durability
Red/Green dual illumination for versatile lighting conditions
Adjustable objective for precise parallax adjustment
Cons:
Eye relief may be a concern for some users
Requires familiarity with mil-dot reticle for accurate use
Comparatively heavier than some other scopes in the market

2.
UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope

The_8_Best_Scopes_for_100_Yards_Precision_and_Clarity_for_Every_Shot_0002.jpg
For shooters seeking a reliable and versatile scope for 100-yard targets, the UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope offers premium features like EZ-TAP illumination and a True Strength Platform. This scope’s 30mm tube is equipped with multi-Emerald coated lenses, ensuring excellent light transmission and clarity. The True Strength Platform design incorporates a Smart Spherical Structure, providing exceptional reliability even under extreme recoil.
The scope boasts premium zero locking and resetting turrets, allowing for precise windage and elevation adjustments. The side wheel adjustable turret facilitates parallax adjustment from 10 yards to infinity, enhancing accuracy. With a magnification range of 3-12x and a 44mm objective diameter, you’ll find it versatile for various shooting scenarios.
Included accessories like flip-open lens caps and quick detachable rings add further convenience.
Best For: Shooters seeking a reliable and versatile scope for 100-yard targets and various shooting scenarios.
Pros:
Multi-Emerald coated lenses for excellent light transmission and clarity
Premium zero locking and resetting turrets for precise adjustments
Side wheel adjustable turret for parallax adjustment from 10 yards to infinity
Cons:
Eye relief may be a bit short for some users at 3.4-3 inches
Heavier than some other scopes at 23.2 oz
Requires CR2032 3V battery for illumination, which may need frequent replacement

3. Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm Dusk & Dawn Hunting Riflescope

The_8_Best_Scopes_for_100_Yards_Precision_and_Clarity_for_Every_Shot_0003.jpg
The Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm Dusk & Dawn Hunting Riflescope stands out for hunters seeking exceptional clarity and brightness in low light conditions. This scope features Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multi-coated lenses, guaranteeing high contrast images during early morning and late evening hunts.
With a magnification range of 3x to 9x and a 40mm objective lens, you’re equipped for various shooting scenarios. The Circle-X Reticle enhances accuracy and range finding, while the argon-purged fog-proofing and IPX7 waterproof construction provide dependable performance in adverse weather.
Additionally, the extended 6 inches of eye relief offer comfort and safety. Users praise its ease of use, clarity, and value, making it a versatile choice for different firearms and shooting conditions.
Best For: Hunters seeking a reliable and versatile riflescope with excellent clarity and performance in low light conditions.
Pros:
Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multi-coated lenses for high contrast images.
Argon-purged fog-proofing and IPX7 waterproof construction for all-weather reliability.
Extended 6 inches of eye relief for enhanced comfort and safety.
Cons:
Not equipped with night vision capabilities.
Some users might find the Circle-X Reticle less suitable for long-range precision shooting.
Slightly heavier compared to other scopes in its category.

4. Vortex Optics Diamondback 4-12x40 Riflescope

The_8_Best_Scopes_for_100_Yards_Precision_and_Clarity_for_Every_Shot_0004.jpg
You’ll find the Vortex Optics Diamondback 4-12x40 riflescope an excellent choice for big game hunters and long-range shooting enthusiasts. This versatile scope, with its Dead-Hold BDC reticle, helps you estimate hold-over accurately, making it suitable for various hunting applications, including predator and varmint hunting.
The fully multi-coated lenses deliver bright, clear images, while the metal on metal precision turrets guarantee consistent adjustments. It’s built tough with a one-piece aluminum tube, shockproof, hard anodized, and both fog proof and waterproof, thanks to Argon purging and O-ring sealing.
You’ll appreciate the 3.1 inches of eye relief and Vortex’s unlimited, unconditional lifetime warranty. Plus, it comes with a stylish Vortex hat, enhancing your shooting gear ensemble.
Best For: Big game hunters and long-range shooting enthusiasts who need a versatile and durable riflescope.
Pros:
Dead-Hold BDC reticle for accurate hold-over estimation.
Fully multi-coated lenses for bright and clear images.
Shockproof, fog proof, and waterproof construction with a lifetime warranty.
Cons:
Some users may find the 3.1 inches of eye relief insufficient for certain rifles.
The 40mm objective lens may not perform as well in extremely low-light conditions compared to larger lenses.
Higher magnification settings might require more precise adjustments and stability.

5. Monstrum 3-9x32 Rifle Scope

The_8_Best_Scopes_for_100_Yards_Precision_and_Clarity_for_Every_Shot_0005.jpg
Hunters and tactical shooters will appreciate the Monstrum 3-9x32 Rifle Scope with its crystal-clear targeting and rangefinder reticle designed for precise range estimation. This tactical scope, crafted from durable aluminum, offers a versatile magnification range of 3-9x and a 32mm objective lens diameter, ensuring clear visuals at various distances. With 3.5 inches of eye relief, it provides comfortable viewing without compromising accuracy.
The scope includes dial-controlled reticle illumination in both red and green, with multiple brightness levels, enhancing visibility in diverse lighting conditions. Additionally, the package comes with medium profile scope rings, a lens cleaning cloth, and a manual, making setup straightforward.
Users have praised its clarity and precision, although some have noted issues with eye relief adjustments and rifle compatibility.
Best For: Hunters and tactical shooters seeking a durable, versatile scope with clear targeting and range estimation capabilities.
Pros:
Crystal clear targeting with 3-9x magnification
Dial-controlled reticle illumination in red and green
Includes medium profile scope rings and lens cleaning cloth for easy setup
Cons:
Some users report issues with eye relief adjustments
Compatibility concerns with certain rifles
Quality concerns noted by a few users

6. CVLIFE 3-9x40 Compact Rifle Scope

The_8_Best_Scopes_for_100_Yards_Precision_and_Clarity_for_Every_Shot_0006.jpg
Ideal for budget-conscious shooters aiming for clear, reliable performance, the CVLIFE Compact Rifle Scope 3-9x40 offers a lightweight design and essential durability features. At just 7.48 inches and 0.71 pounds, this scope is made from high-strength aluminum alloy, making it both compact and robust.
The crosshair reticle facilitates quick aiming, and the scratch-resistant coating guarantees longevity. Additionally, it’s designed to be fog-proof and rain-proof, enhancing its dependability in various weather conditions. The scope comes with two 20mm free mounts compatible with all 20mm rails, providing easy installation.
With 3-9x magnification, a 40mm objective lens diameter, and 2.7 inches of eye relief, this scope is particularly suitable for close-range shooting and plinking with smaller calibers.
Best For: Budget-conscious shooters seeking a lightweight, reliable scope for close-range shooting and plinking with smaller calibers.
Pros:
Affordable price with good value for money
Lightweight and compact design
Comes with free 20mm mounts for easy installation
Cons:
Issues with scope rings and waterproof integrity
Limited magnification accuracy and range
Not suitable for challenging conditions like heavy rain

7.
Leupold VX-Freedom 4-12x40mm Riflescope

The_8_Best_Scopes_for_100_Yards_Precision_and_Clarity_for_Every_Shot_0007.jpg
The Leupold VX-Freedom 4-12x40mm Riflescope, with its advanced optical system and Tri-MOA CDS reticle, is perfect for shooters seeking precision and reliability at 100 yards.
This scope, Model 180601, features hash marks in 1 MOA increments, providing you with precise adjustments and enhanced accuracy. The scratch-resistant lenses guarantee durability, while the advanced optical system maximizes light transmission and reduces glare.
Designed, machined, and assembled in the USA, this riflescope is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, making it a reliable choice for various conditions. With a magnification range of 4-12x and a 40mm objective lens diameter, this scope offers a generous 3-inch eye relief.
Weighing just 13.12 ounces, it’s lightweight and easy to mount using a dovetail mount.
Best For: Shooters seeking precision and reliability at 100 yards with a durable, lightweight, and affordable riflescope.
Pros:
Clear, crisp optics with excellent light transmission and reduced glare.
Durable construction with scratch-resistant lenses and waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof features.
Easy to sight in and holds zero well.
Cons:
Issues with focus and clarity reported by some users.
Fragile adjustment knob prone to damage.
Reticle area could be larger for better range estimation.

8. Pinty 3-9X40 Riflescope

The_8_Best_Scopes_for_100_Yards_Precision_and_Clarity_for_Every_Shot_0008.jpg
For those frequently seeking an affordable yet reliable scope, the Pinty 3-9X40 Rifle Scope with Illuminated Mil Dot offers impressive performance and value. Constructed from durable aluminum, this tactical scope provides a magnification range of 3-9x, making it suitable for hunting and target shooting.
Its fully multi-coated lens guarantees excellent light transmission and clarity, while the illuminated mil-dot reticle, available in red, green, and blue, enhances visibility in low-light conditions. The Pinty scope is water, fog, and shockproof, guaranteeing robust performance in various environments.
It holds zero reliably on rifles such as the .22LR and 308 win, with resettable turrets allowing for easy adjustments. Despite some concerns about turret markings alignment, the scope’s overall positive feedback and 4.4-star rating underscore its value.
Best For: Those seeking an affordable and reliable tactical scope for hunting and target shooting.
Pros:
Durable aluminum construction with fully multi-coated lens for excellent light transmission.
Illuminated mil-dot reticle in red, green, and blue for enhanced visibility in low-light conditions.
Water, fog, and shockproof, ensuring robust performance in various environments.
Cons:
Concerns about turret markings alignment with click values.
No night vision feature.
Some users may find the clarity less acceptable at higher magnifications.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Scopes for 100 Yards

When selecting a scope for 100 yards, you’ll need to take into account various factors to guarantee peak performance. Pay attention to magnification and clarity, as these will affect your ability to see and hit your target accurately.
Additionally, evaluate the objective lens size, eye relief distance, reticle type preferences, and illumination features to find the best scope that suits your needs.

Magnification and Clarity

Magnification and clarity are vital factors you’ll need to ponder on to guarantee peak performance and precision when selecting scopes for 100-yard shooting. For best results, look at scopes with magnification levels between 3-9x. This range offers a perfect balance, giving you a wide field of view while still allowing you to focus on the finer details of your target.
The clarity of your optics is equally important. High-quality glass and precision craftsmanship are essential to make sure a sharp, clear image, enabling you to distinguish your target from its surroundings effectively. Fully multi-coated lenses are a feature to prioritize, as they enhance light transmission and reduce glare, greatly improving clarity, especially in varying lighting conditions.
Moreover, consider scopes with adjustable parallax settings. Parallax error can compromise your accuracy, and having the ability to fine-tune this setting ensures your aim remains true over the 100-yard distance. This adjustment is essential for maintaining pinpoint accuracy and eliminating any potential aiming errors.

Objective Lens Size

Selecting the appropriate objective lens size for your scope is essential for maximizing light transmission and ensuring a clear, bright image at 100 yards. A larger objective lens, such as 40mm or 44mm, allows more light to enter the scope, enhancing brightness and image clarity. This increased light transmission is vital for achieving a precise and sharp view of your target at this distance. Additionally, a larger lens typically offers a wider field of view, which facilitates easier target acquisition and tracking.
However, it’s important to balance lens size with the overall weight and bulk of your setup. Larger lenses can add considerable weight, potentially affecting the portability and handling of your firearm. When choosing an objective lens size, consider how the increased weight might impact your shooting experience.
Moreover, the size of the objective lens influences the exit pupil diameter, which determines how much light reaches your eye. A larger exit pupil generally results in a brighter and clearer image, especially in low-light conditions, enhancing your shooting accuracy.

Eye Relief Distance

Eye relief distance is crucial for guaranteeing a safe and comfortable shooting experience at 100 yards. This distance, measured from the ocular lens to where you can see the full field of view without black edges, plays a critical role in both safety and comfort. For scopes used at this range, a longer eye relief of around 3-4 inches is ideal. It prevents scope eye injuries, which can occur when there’s insufficient distance between your eye and the scope, especially with high recoil firearms.
A generous eye relief ensures that you can shoot comfortably, accommodating different shooting positions and allowing a safe buffer between your eye and the scope. This is particularly important when using high recoil firearms, as it prevents the scope from hitting your face upon firing. Additionally, longer eye relief provides flexibility in mounting the scope on various rifles, making it easier to maintain a consistent sight picture regardless of the firearm used.
When selecting a scope for 100 yards, always consider the eye relief distance. This consideration guarantees a safe, comfortable, and adaptable shooting experience, allowing you to maintain precision and clarity for every shot.

Reticle Type Preferences

Choosing the right reticle type for your scope at 100 yards can greatly enhance your shooting accuracy and overall experience. When it comes to reticle preferences, you have several options such as duplex, mil-dot, and BDC reticles, each offering distinct advantages tailored to different shooting needs.
Duplex reticles are known for their simplicity, featuring thicker outer lines that taper to thinner inner lines. This design allows for quick target acquisition, making it ideal for fast-paced shooting scenarios.
If you’re looking for precision in elevation and windage adjustments, a mil-dot reticle might be your best bet. Mil-dot reticles offer precise holdover points, which can be particularly useful for long-range shooting, even at a moderate distance like 100 yards.
On the other hand, BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticles provide pre-calculated aiming points for different distances, simplifying holdover adjustments and reducing guesswork. This feature can be incredibly beneficial if you often shoot at varying ranges.
Ultimately, your choice will depend on your specific shooting style and intended use, whether it’s hunting, target shooting, or tactical applications. Carefully considering these factors will help you select the most effective reticle type for your 100-yard shooting needs.

Illumination Features

While selecting the ideal reticle type is important, don’t overlook the illumination features that can greatly impact your accuracy and ease of shooting at 100 yards. Illuminated reticles enhance visibility in low light conditions, a vital factor when aiming for precision.
Scopes featuring red or green reticle illumination provide better contrast, making it easier to maintain focus on your target.
Adjustable brightness levels are another key aspect to take into account. Being able to tailor the brightness to different lighting environments guarantees that your reticle remains clearly visible, regardless of the time of day or weather conditions. This adaptability is particularly advantageous when shooting at 100 yards, where maintaining a clear sight picture is essential.
Some scopes offer multiple color options for reticle illumination, enabling you to choose the color that best suits your eyesight and shooting conditions. This customization enhances your ability to quickly acquire targets and aim accurately.
Properly regulated illumination can greatly improve the contrast between the reticle and the target, aiding in quick target acquisition and precise aiming.

Durability and Build

When selecting a scope for 100 yards, prioritize durability and build quality to guarantee reliable performance in various conditions. Look for scopes constructed from durable materials like aluminum or high-strength alloys, as these ensure longevity and resistance to impact.
Equally important are shockproof, fogproof, and waterproof features, which enable the scope to withstand diverse environmental challenges. A scope with a sturdy one-piece tube construction is also essential, as it adds durability and helps maintain zero under recoil.
Moreover, opt for scopes with scratch-resistant coatings on the lenses to prevent damage and maintain optical clarity over time. This feature is vital for ensuring that your scope provides a clear view even after prolonged use in rugged conditions.
Additionally, scopes with sealed construction and nitrogen or argon purging offer added protection against internal fogging and moisture, ensuring that the internal components remain dry and functional regardless of external conditions.

Adjustment Turrets

Adjustment turrets are essential for fine-tuning your scope’s accuracy at 100 yards, so look for models with easily accessible and precise controls. When selecting a scope, prioritize those with adjustment turrets for windage and elevation that provide audible and tactile feedback. These features allow you to make accurate adjustments without taking your eyes off the target, ensuring you maintain focus and precision during critical moments.
Scopes with zero resettable turrets are particularly advantageous, as they enable you to quickly return to your original zero settings after making necessary adjustments. This feature greatly enhances your shooting efficiency and accuracy over multiple shots. Additionally, lockable turrets are important for preventing unintentional changes to your settings, maintaining your ideal zero regardless of handling or movement.
Moreover, make sure the turrets offer an adequate adjustment range to effectively compensate for bullet drop and wind drift at 100 yards. The right amount of adjustment is essential for hitting your target accurately, especially under varying environmental conditions.

Mounting Compatibility

Selecting a scope with the appropriate mounting compatibility guarantees a secure and stable attachment to your rifle, which is essential for accurate shooting at 100 yards. To begin, you’ll need to make sure the scope has the correct mounting type, such as Picatinny or Weaver, to match your rifle’s mounting system. This compatibility is pivotal for maintaining stability and precision during use.
Additionally, checking the scope’s tube diameter, whether it’s 1 inch or 30mm, is crucial for matching it with compatible rings that will securely attach the scope to your firearm.
Furthermore, you should consider the eye relief of the scope to ensure comfortable and safe shooting at 100 yards. Eye relief is the distance between the eyepiece and your eye, and having adequate space can prevent discomfort or injury from recoil. Scopes with adjustable parallax are also advantageous, as they help eliminate aiming errors at various distances, including the critical 100-yard mark.
Lastly, confirm that the scope’s reticle design aligns with your shooting style and target type. Whether you prefer a simple duplex reticle or a more complex mil-dot reticle, ensuring compatibility with your shooting needs will enhance your accuracy and overall shooting experience at 100 yards.

Conclusion

Choosing the right scope for 100-yard precision shooting involves considering clarity, durability, and advanced features.
The scopes listed, ranging from the UTG BugBuster to the Leupold VX-Freedom, offer various reticles and magnification options to suit different preferences.
By understanding each model’s strengths and tailoring your choice to your specific needs, you’ll enhance your shooting accuracy and overall experience.
Remember, a well-chosen scope can greatly impact your precision at this distance.
Want to print your doc?
This is not the way.
Try clicking the ⋯ next to your doc name or using a keyboard shortcut (
CtrlP
) instead.