When you’re aiming for precision shooting in 2024, having the right long-range rifle scope can make all the difference. You might be wondering which scopes stand out this year and why. From the Bushnell Match Pro ED 5-30x56 to the NIGHTFORCE ATACR 7-35x56mm F1, each has unique features that cater to different needs.
What should you consider when choosing the best one? Think about magnification, clarity, and reticle options, but there’s more to it. Let’s explore how these factors and specific models can elevate your shooting accuracy and overall experience.
Top 9 Best Long Range Rifle 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.
Bushnell Match Pro ED 5-30x56 Riflescope
If you’re a competitive or precision shooter looking for a reliable and versatile optic, the Bushnell Match Pro ED 5-30x56 Riflescope with its illuminated Deploy MIL 2 reticle and 11 brightness settings is an excellent choice.
This riflescope offers a broad 5-30x magnification range, ensuring you can adapt to various shooting scenarios with precision. The 34mm maintube enhances its durability and strength, while the IPX7 waterproof and fogproof rating, combined with Bushnell’s exclusive EXO Barrier, guarantees clarity and performance in any weather.
Bold turrets provide accurate tracking, and the easy-set elevation zero stop and rev-indicator simplify adjustments. Weighing only 2 pounds and made from aluminum and glass, it’s a lightweight yet robust addition to your shooting gear.
Best For: Competitive and precision shooters seeking a versatile and durable riflescope with a broad magnification range and reliable performance in various weather conditions.
Pros:
Broad 5-30x magnification range for versatile shooting scenarios.
IPX7 waterproof and fogproof with exclusive EXO Barrier for clarity in any weather.
Easy-set elevation zero stop and rev-indicator for simplified adjustments.
For precision shooters who demand top-tier performance, the Burris XTR Pro 5.5-30x56mm Riflescope offers unparalleled clarity and advanced adjustment features ideal for PRS and NRL competitions.
This scope allows for quick and seamless elevation adjustments with its Quick Detach Race Dial, while the Tool-less Zero Click Stop Elevation Knob guarantees you can return to zero effortlessly.
You’ll appreciate the advanced windage and elevation adjustment capabilities, enabling precise targeting. The throw lever facilitates smooth magnification changes, and you can switch illumination colors between Red and Green with 11 brightness levels, ensuring visibility in various lighting conditions.
Designed and manufactured in Greeley, Colorado, this scope comes in a Horus Tremor5 reticle style, mounting easily on Picatinny rails and weighing 3.9 pounds.
Best For: Precision shooters involved in PRS and NRL competitions who demand top-tier performance and optical clarity.
Pros:
Quick Detach Race Dial for seamless elevation adjustments
Tool-less Zero Click Stop Elevation Knob for easy return to zero
Advanced windage and elevation adjustment capabilities
The Leica PRS 5-30x56i, with its first focal plane reticle and legendary Leica optics, is ideal for precision shooters seeking unparalleled accuracy and clarity. This scope features a zero-stop function and a multi-turn elevation turret with a level indicator, guaranteeing precise adjustments during intense shooting sessions.
The huge elevation range further enhances its versatility, making it suitable for long-distance targets. Weighing 36.3 ounces and compatible with a weaver mount, the PRS 5-30x56i is designed for rifles, providing a magnification range from 5x to 30x and an objective lens diameter of 56 millimeters.
While it lacks night vision capabilities, its illuminated reticle ensures visibility in low-light conditions. The Leica PRS 5-30x56i is a premium choice for those serious about precision shooting.
Best For: Precision shooters seeking unparalleled accuracy and clarity in long-distance target shooting.
Pros:
Legendary Leica optics for superior image quality.
Zero-stop function and multi-turn elevation turret with level indicator for precise adjustments.
Engineered for critical situations, the Steiner Tactical Scope T6Xi 5-30x56mm with SCR2 Reticle stands out as a top choice for precision shooters who demand unwavering performance in any condition.
This German-engineered scope is built to handle the toughest environments, featuring low-profile Never-Lost™ locking windage and elevation knobs that guarantee your settings remain stable.
The second rotation indication system provides clear click values, while the included throw lever allows for rapid magnification changes. The diopter locking ring ensures the reticle stays in sharp focus, and its rugged aluminum construction guarantees durability.
With dimensions of 15.75L x 2W x 2H inches and a weight of 34.5 ounces, this versatile scope is perfect for unisex-adult users and is proudly made in the U.S.A.
Best For: Precision shooters and hunters seeking a durable, versatile scope that performs reliably in challenging conditions.
Pros:
German-engineered for exceptional performance.
Low-profile Never-Lost™ locking windage and elevation knobs.
Rugged aluminum construction and diopter locking ring for durability.
Cons:
Higher price point compared to some competitors.
Limited compatibility, primarily designed for handguns.
If you’re a precision shooter seeking unparalleled clarity and accuracy, the TORIC UHD Long Range Riflescope with an illuminated reticle offers an ultra high-definition optical system with fully multi-coated SCHOTT HT glass. This scope’s ED lens guarantees sharp, bright images and superior light transmission.
With a large eyebox design providing 4 inches of constant eye relief, the 30mm one-piece tube offers greater strength and a wider adjustment range. The first focal plane design allows for accurate use of the MOA reticle, while precision-machined turrets with .25 MOA per click adjustments and a locking system enhance accuracy.
Additionally, the multi-rotation zero stop feature aids in maintaining zero. Users have successfully sighted in at 500yds and 800yds, achieving consistent 1MOA groups with factory-loaded ammo.
Best For: Precision shooters who seek unparalleled clarity, accuracy, and reliability in long-range shooting.
Pros:
Ultra high-definition optical system with fully multi-coated SCHOTT HT glass for exceptional clarity.
ED lens providing sharp, bright images with superior light transmission.
First focal plane design allowing for accurate use of the MOA reticle.
Cons:
Higher price point compared to some other brands.
Potentially steep learning curve for beginners due to advanced features.
Limited availability in some regions, requiring online purchase and delivery.
For precision shooters seeking a dependable and accurate scope, the Arken Optics SH4J 6-24X50 offers an illuminated reticle on a first focal plane, ensuring clear visibility at any magnification.
With its zero stop mechanism, you can quickly return to your original sighting, enhancing consistency and accuracy. The use of Japanese ELD glass and fully multi-coated lenses provides exceptional clarity and light transmission.
Constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum, this scope is both waterproof and fogproof, making it highly durable in various conditions. The side knob parallax adjustment and fast focus eyepiece further enhance ease of use.
Compared to high-end brands like Leupold and Vortex, the SH4J offers similar features and quality at a more budget-friendly price, receiving positive user reviews for its value and performance.
Best For: Precision shooters looking for a high-quality, budget-friendly scope with features comparable to high-end brands.
Pros:
First focal plane with an illuminated reticle for clear visibility at any magnification.
Japanese ELD glass and fully multi-coated lenses for exceptional clarity and light transmission.
Durable construction with aircraft-grade aluminum, waterproof, and fogproof features.
Cons:
May not have the same brand recognition as high-end brands like Leupold and Vortex.
Some users might prefer more premium brands despite similar performance.
Limited availability in certain markets may require purchasing online.
The TT525P Professional Marksman Riflescope, with its impressive 5x to 25x magnification range, is perfect for serious hunters seeking unparalleled precision.
Manufactured by Tangent Theta, this professional-grade scope weighs a mere 0.01 ounces, ensuring it doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to your rifle. It’s designed for hunting and mounts easily using a Weaver Mount.
While it lacks night vision capabilities, its 34mm tube and .1 MRAD adjustment provide exceptional clarity and accuracy in daylight conditions. Measuring 19.7 x 3 x 3 inches, it offers a robust yet streamlined profile.
First available in August 2019, this scope remains a highly-regarded choice for precision shooting, ranking #4,281 in rifle scopes.
For competitive pricing, consider submitting a price match request through the provided instructions.
Best For: Serious hunters seeking unparalleled precision and clarity in daylight conditions.
Pros:
Impressive 5x to 25x magnification range
Lightweight at 0.01 ounces, adding minimal bulk to the rifle
Robust 34mm tube with .1 MRAD adjustment for exceptional accuracy
Cons:
Lacks night vision capabilities
Relatively high price point
Limited availability since first release in August 2019
Riton Optics 2023 Series 7 Conquer Precision Riflescope
Hunters and precision shooters looking for top-tier performance in all weather conditions will love the Riton Optics 2023 Series 7 Conquer Precision Riflescope, with its dry argon purging and 99.5% light transmission.
This riflescope, meticulously quality-checked in Tucson, AZ, features Riton HD/ED glass, ensuring unparalleled clarity and brightness. The Riton Performance Coating further enhances lens performance, while the rugged aluminum construction guarantees durability, even in the harshest environments.
With a magnification range of 4x to 32x and a 34mm objective lens diameter, this scope offers versatile and precise targeting. Although it lacks night vision, its cantilever mount makes it compatible with a variety of rifles.
Measuring 17.5 x 4.7 x 3.9 inches and weighing 37 ounces, this model is a robust and reliable choice for serious shooters.
Best For: Hunters and precision shooters seeking top-tier performance in all weather conditions with high magnification capabilities.
Pros:
Exceptional light transmission with Riton HD/ED glass (99.5%)
Durable construction with dry argon purging for all-weather performance
Wide magnification range (4x - 32x) for versatile targeting
Factors to Consider When Choosing Long Range Rifle Scopes
When selecting a long range rifle scope, you need to take into account several important factors to guarantee precision and reliability.
Pay attention to magnification and clarity, as these will determine how well you can see and hit distant targets.
Additionally, examine reticle options, turret adjustments, build quality, and parallax adjustment to optimize your shooting experience.
Magnification and Clarity
Selecting the appropriate rifle scope for long-range precision shooting involves focusing on magnification and clarity to guarantee you can accurately identify and engage targets at extended distances. High magnification levels, such as 5-30x or 7-35x, play an important role in long-range shooting by allowing for precise target acquisition. When you’re aiming at distant targets, these magnification levels help you see details that would otherwise be missed, ensuring accurate shots.
Clarity is equally essential. Look for scopes with fully multi-coated lenses and high-quality glass to provide sharp and bright images. Such features are critical when identifying targets at long ranges, especially under varying light conditions. Additionally, scopes with a first focal plane reticle maintain consistent reticle size relative to the target, preserving accuracy regardless of magnification.
Comfort during extended shooting sessions is crucial, so consider optical features like large eyeboxes and constant eye relief. These elements help you maintain a clear view through the scope without straining your eyes.
Lastly, precision turret adjustments and zero-stop mechanisms ensure reliable tracking and return to zero, essential for maintaining accuracy throughout your shooting sessions. Prioritizing these factors will enhance your long-range shooting capabilities significantly.
Reticle Options
Selecting the appropriate reticle is crucial for long-range rifle scopes as it directly impacts your shooting accuracy and target acquisition. Reticle options range from simple crosshairs to complex designs with holdover points for wind and elevation adjustments. Common reticle types include MIL-Dot, MOA, BDC, Duplex, and Christmas Tree reticles, each serving distinct shooting purposes.
First Focal Plane (FFP) reticles change in size with magnification, allowing for accurate holdover and ranging at any power setting, making them particularly useful for precision shooting. In contrast, Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticles remain constant in size, offering a consistent aiming point but potentially lacking the precision required for long-range engagements.
Additionally, illuminated reticles provide enhanced visibility in low-light conditions, though excessive brightness can hinder target acquisition and accuracy at longer ranges.
When choosing a reticle, consider your specific shooting needs and preferences. For instance, if you often shoot at varying distances, an FFP reticle might be more advantageous. Conversely, if you prefer simplicity and a consistent aiming point, an SFP reticle could be more suitable.
Always match your reticle choice to your shooting style and typical environmental conditions.
Turret Adjustments
Precise turret adjustments are essential for guaranteeing your long-range rifle scope delivers accurate windage and elevation changes. When selecting a scope, you’ll want to look for turrets that offer tactile and audible clicks. These features make it easier to make precise adjustments while you’re in the field, allowing you to feel and hear each increment clearly. This is vital when you need to make quick, accurate changes on the fly.
Moreover, reliable zero stop features are a necessity. They allow you to return to your initial settings effortlessly, which can be particularly useful after making significant adjustments during a shooting session. You should also consider lockable turrets to prevent any accidental adjustments. This is especially important when you’re carrying or transporting your rifle, as it ensures your settings remain unchanged.
Multi-turn elevation turrets and rev-indicators are additional features that can enhance your shooting experience. They provide clear and convenient adjustments, making it easier to keep track of your settings over multiple rotations. This can be particularly beneficial during extended long-range shooting sessions, where maintaining accuracy is paramount.
These factors collectively ensure that your scope delivers the precision needed for successful long-range shooting.
Build Quality
When considering long-range rifle scopes, you’ll want to prioritize build quality to guarantee your scope can handle the demands of precision shooting. The material used in the construction of the scope is pivotal; aircraft-grade aluminum is highly recommended due to its exceptional durability and strength. This material ensures that the scope can withstand the physical demands and rigors associated with long-range shooting activities.
Additionally, it’s important to look for waterproof and fogproof capabilities. These features will make sure your scope remains functional in varying weather conditions, maintaining clarity and performance when you need it most. Quality coatings on the lenses also play a significant role in enhancing light transmission and clarity, which is essential for better visibility and accuracy.
You should also evaluate the design of the turret adjustments. Precision and ease of use in turret adjustments are critical for long-range shooting, as they allow for accurate and quick modifications. Robust build quality is essential to withstand the recoil from repeated firing, ensuring consistent performance and longevity.
Parallax Adjustment
Why is parallax adjustment so vital for long-range shooting?
Parallax adjustment guarantees that both the reticle and the target are in focus and aligned at various distances, a necessity for precision shooting. When you’re targeting something far away, even a minor misalignment can lead to significant aiming errors. By using a parallax adjustment knob, you can fine-tune the scope’s focus, eliminating optical errors and ensuring that your reticle stays on target.
Long-range rifle scopes equipped with parallax adjustment allow for more precise aiming, particularly at extended ranges. This feature is indispensable for achieving high accuracy, as it reduces the potential for aiming discrepancies that can occur when the reticle and the target aren’t on the same focal plane. By adjusting the parallax, you make sure that your scope is properly calibrated for the distance to your target, thereby enhancing your shooting performance.
Understanding how parallax affects your shooting accuracy is essential when selecting a long-range rifle scope.
A scope with a reliable parallax adjustment will provide you with the necessary tools to guarantee your shots are as accurate as possible, making it a critical factor to take into account for peak performance.
Illumination Settings
As you fine-tune your scope for parallax, it’s equally important to take into account illumination settings to guarantee clear reticle visibility in varying light conditions. Illumination settings in long-range rifle scopes provide essential brightness levels, enhancing reticle visibility when shooting in low-light environments. This feature becomes vital, especially during dawn, dusk, or overcast weather, where natural light is insufficient.
Many scopes offer multiple illumination settings, allowing you to adjust the brightness to match the ambient lighting conditions. This flexibility ensures that the reticle remains sharp and easily visible, facilitating precise aiming and accuracy. Without proper illumination, the reticle can become challenging to see, significantly impacting your shooting performance.
Moreover, illuminated reticles are particularly beneficial for long-range shooting. As distance increases, visibility may diminish, making it harder to maintain focus on the target. Adjustable illumination settings help overcome this challenge, ensuring the reticle stands out clearly against various backgrounds.
When selecting a long-range rifle scope, consider one with customizable illumination settings. This feature optimizes your shooting performance across diverse scenarios, enhancing both accuracy and precision. By prioritizing illumination settings, you’ll secure consistent reticle visibility, vital for successful long-range shooting.
Eye Relief
Proper eye relief is essential to prevent recoil injuries and guarantee a comfortable shooting experience with long-range rifle scopes. Adequate eye relief, typically measured in inches, allows you to maintain a safe distance between your eye and the scope, particularly important when dealing with high-recoil rifles. Long-range shooting often requires longer eye relief to accommodate the increased distance between your eye and the scope, ensuring you can achieve precise aiming without straining your vision.
Longer eye relief also proves beneficial for individuals wearing glasses or those adopting various shooting positions, providing flexibility and comfort. Without sufficient eye relief, you risk experiencing ‘scope bite,’ where the recoil causes the scope to strike your brow or eye, leading to potential injuries. This underscores the importance of selecting a long-range rifle scope with an appropriate eye relief distance.
When choosing a scope, carefully consider the eye relief specifications to make sure it meets your needs. Aim for a scope that offers a balance between adequate eye relief and a clear, consistent field of view. By prioritizing this factor, you’ll enhance both your safety and shooting accuracy, ensuring a more effective and enjoyable shooting experience.
Conclusion
Selecting the best long-range rifle scope for 2024 requires careful consideration of key features such as magnification, clarity, and reticle options.
The top models, including the Bushnell Match Pro ED, NIGHTFORCE ATACR, and Burris XTR Pro, offer excellent performance for precision shooting.
Make sure your chosen scope has robust turret adjustments, fully multi-coated lenses, and first focal plane reticles.
With the right scope, you’ll achieve superior accuracy and reliability in your long-range shooting endeavors.