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10 Best Scopes 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Nikon Prostaff 5 Proscope 82mm Angled Body with 20-60x Zoom, Black

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,419
Magnification
Objective Lens Diameter
Field of View

Most important from
54 reviews

Magnification
Its wide 20-60x zoom range and large 82mm objective lens provide excellent detail and brightness, even in low-light conditions.
Objective Lens Diameter
Its wide 20-60x zoom range and large 82mm objective lens provide excellent detail and brightness, even in low-light conditions.
Field of View
The wide field of view combined with easy-to-use focus and zoom controls makes it comfortable and efficient for target viewing and wildlife observation.
Eye Relief
The eye relief and front lens shade design enhance user comfort and viewing experience, especially during extended use.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Despite its heavier weight and length, it performs exceptionally well on a sturdy tripod, offering impressive clarity for targets up to 100 yards and beyond.

The Nikon Prostaff 5 Proscope with its large 82mm objective lens is great for users needing a bright and clear image, especially in varying light conditions. Its 20-60x zoom offers a wide range of magnification, making it versatile for spotting distant objects with good detail. The multicoated optics help deliver sharp, high-contrast views with true colors, which is important for clarity.

Its angled body design and lightweight build make it comfortable to handle during extended use. The scope is also well protected against weather with waterproof and fogproof features, plus a built-in sliding sunshade that reduces glare and keeps the lens clean in tough environments. It is a bit heavier at 4.1 pounds, which could be noticeable on long outings.

This scope suits outdoor enthusiasts or birdwatchers who want a bright, reliable scope with good zoom and weather resistance, though those needing specialized reticle features or extremely lightweight gear might want to consider their specific needs before buying.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,419
Magnification
Objective Lens Diameter
Field of View

Most important from
54 reviews

Magnification
Its wide 20-60x zoom range and large 82mm objective lens provide excellent detail and brightness, even in low-light conditions.
Objective Lens Diameter
Its wide 20-60x zoom range and large 82mm objective lens provide excellent detail and brightness, even in low-light conditions.
Field of View
The wide field of view combined with easy-to-use focus and zoom controls makes it comfortable and efficient for target viewing and wildlife observation.
Eye Relief
The eye relief and front lens shade design enhance user comfort and viewing experience, especially during extended use.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Despite its heavier weight and length, it performs exceptionally well on a sturdy tripod, offering impressive clarity for targets up to 100 yards and beyond.
#2

Nightforce ATACR 5-25x56mm First Focal Plane (F1/FFP) 34mm Tube Durable Precise Waterproof Fogproof Hunting Gun Scope, 25 MOA DigIllum PTL MOA-XT Reticle

Rating
8.2
Magnification
Reticle
Durability and Weather Resistance

Most important from
30 reviews

Magnification
At 1,200 yards, the splatter of the bullet impact on the steel target is clearly visible, making this scope ideal for long-range shooting.
Reticle
The illuminated reticle is perfect for low light conditions, enhancing visibility and accuracy.
Durability and Weather Resistance
This scope is incredibly sturdy and reliable, withstanding harsh conditions without any issues.

The Nightforce ATACR 5-25x56mm scope is designed for serious hunters and tactical shooters who demand top-tier performance and durability. With its impressive 5-25x magnification range, this scope offers versatility for both short and long-range shooting. The 56mm objective lens diameter ensures excellent light transmission for bright and clear images, even in low light conditions, which is crucial for early morning or late evening hunts. The first focal plane (FFP) reticle maintains consistent subtensions across all magnifications, making holdover and windage corrections straightforward and accurate at any zoom level, particularly beneficial for long-range shooting where precision is key.

The scope's robust construction is waterproof and fogproof, ensuring it can withstand harsh environmental conditions. The 34mm tube diameter provides a wider range of internal adjustments, essential for long-distance accuracy. The MOA-XT reticle is designed with precision shooters in mind, offering a floating center dot and clear MOA markings for quick and accurate targeting. With 3.5 inches of eye relief, the scope is comfortable to use, reducing eye strain during extended periods of observation.

However, its weight of 37.6 ounces may be considered heavy by some users, which could affect balance and maneuverability, particularly on lightweight rifles. Additionally, the scope does not feature night vision, which might be a limitation for users requiring this capability for nighttime hunting or shooting. In summary, the Nightforce ATACR 5-25x56mm scope is a high-performance, durable optic ideal for demanding hunting and tactical applications, offering exceptional clarity, precise adjustments, and robust construction, though it is relatively heavy and lacks night vision capabilities.

Rating
8.2
Magnification
Reticle
Durability and Weather Resistance

Most important from
30 reviews

Magnification
At 1,200 yards, the splatter of the bullet impact on the steel target is clearly visible, making this scope ideal for long-range shooting.
Reticle
The illuminated reticle is perfect for low light conditions, enhancing visibility and accuracy.
Durability and Weather Resistance
This scope is incredibly sturdy and reliable, withstanding harsh conditions without any issues.
#3

Nightforce ATACR 5-25x56mm First Focal Plane (F1/FFP) 34mm Tube Durable Precise Waterproof Fogproof Hunting Gun Scope, 250 MOA DigIllum PTL Moar Reticle

Rating
7.9
Reticle
Durability and Weather Resistance

Most important from
30 reviews

Reticle
The illuminated reticle is highly appreciated for enhancing visibility in low light conditions.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Durability is confirmed as the scope is described as very sturdy, suitable for various shooting setups.

The Nightforce ATACR 5-25x56mm F1 scope excels in optical performance, featuring top-tier ED glass that delivers sharp and vivid images across its magnification range. With a magnification range of 5x to 25x and a 56mm objective lens, this scope is versatile for various shooting situations, offering excellent light transmission even in low light conditions. The first focal plane (FFP) reticle ensures that the reticle subtensions remain consistent at all magnifications, which is crucial for accurate shooting at varying distances.

The MOAR reticle with 1 MOA elevation and windage markings allows for precise adjustments and quick target acquisition, which is particularly beneficial for long-range shooting and hunting scenarios. Additionally, the scope's substantial 34mm tube diameter allows for a significant range of internal adjustments, giving shooters the flexibility they need in the field. The 3.5-inch eye relief provides a comfortable viewing experience, reducing eye strain during prolonged use.

Durability is a standout feature, as the Nightforce ATACR is built to withstand harsh conditions, being waterproof and fogproof. This makes it a reliable companion in diverse environmental conditions. However, potential buyers should be aware of the scope's considerable weight, which might be a drawback for those looking for a lighter option. Additionally, while the scope offers exceptional performance, it comes at a premium price, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. In conclusion, the Nightforce ATACR 5-25x56mm F1 scope is a top-tier choice for hunters and precision shooters who require a robust, high-performing optic capable of delivering consistent accuracy in various conditions.

Rating
7.9
Reticle
Durability and Weather Resistance

Most important from
30 reviews

Reticle
The illuminated reticle is highly appreciated for enhancing visibility in low light conditions.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Durability is confirmed as the scope is described as very sturdy, suitable for various shooting setups.

Buying Guide for the Best Scopes

When it comes to choosing a scope, whether for hunting, target shooting, or bird watching, it's important to understand the key specifications that will affect your experience and performance. The right scope can make a significant difference in accuracy, clarity, and overall satisfaction. Here are the key specs you should consider and how to navigate them to find the best fit for your needs.
MagnificationMagnification refers to how much closer the target appears compared to the naked eye. This is important because it determines how well you can see distant objects. Scopes typically have fixed or variable magnification. Fixed magnification scopes are simpler and often more durable, while variable magnification scopes offer flexibility for different distances. For general hunting, a 3-9x magnification is common, while long-range shooting might require 10x or higher. Choose based on the typical distance you will be observing or shooting.
Objective Lens DiameterThe objective lens diameter is the size of the front lens in millimeters. This spec is crucial because it affects the amount of light that enters the scope, impacting image brightness and clarity. Larger diameters (e.g., 50mm) allow more light and are better for low-light conditions, but they can be heavier and bulkier. Smaller diameters (e.g., 32mm) are lighter and more compact but may not perform as well in dim light. Consider where and when you will be using the scope to determine the right balance.
Field of ViewField of view (FOV) is the width of the area you can see through the scope at a specific distance, usually measured in feet at 100 yards. A wider FOV is beneficial for tracking moving targets and scanning large areas. Higher magnification typically reduces FOV, so there's a trade-off. For fast-moving targets or wide-open spaces, a larger FOV is advantageous. For stationary targets or long-range shooting, a narrower FOV might be acceptable.
ReticleThe reticle, or crosshair, is the aiming point you see when looking through the scope. Reticles come in various designs, such as duplex, mil-dot, and BDC (bullet drop compensator). The choice of reticle depends on your specific needs. A simple duplex reticle is great for general use, while a mil-dot reticle is useful for range estimation and windage adjustments. BDC reticles are designed for long-range shooting with specific calibers. Choose a reticle that matches your shooting style and requirements.
Eye ReliefEye relief is the distance from the eyepiece to your eye where you can see the full image. This is important for comfort and safety, especially with high-recoil firearms. Longer eye relief (e.g., 4 inches) is better for powerful rifles to prevent injury from recoil. Shorter eye relief (e.g., 3 inches) might be sufficient for low-recoil firearms or non-recoil applications like bird watching. Ensure the eye relief is adequate for your specific use to avoid discomfort or injury.
Parallax AdjustmentParallax adjustment helps to eliminate the apparent movement of the reticle when you move your eye slightly. This is important for precision shooting at varying distances. Scopes without parallax adjustment are typically set for a specific distance (e.g., 100 yards). Scopes with adjustable parallax allow you to fine-tune the focus for different ranges, improving accuracy. If you plan to shoot at various distances, a scope with parallax adjustment can be very beneficial.
Durability and Weather ResistanceDurability and weather resistance are crucial for ensuring your scope can withstand the elements and rough handling. Look for scopes that are waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof. These features are important for maintaining performance in adverse conditions. If you will be using the scope in harsh environments or during inclement weather, prioritize these features to ensure reliability and longevity.

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