Picking the right sniper scope isn’t less important than choosing the rifle itself. Only a top-notch long-range scope could help you uncover the potential of your rifle. This is the reason you shouldn’t mind spending a bit on the scope.
But how do you find the best sniper scope for the money? We’ll, that’s why we’re here today. We’ve compiled this list of the most reliable sniper scopes available today. Whether you’re a scout sniper or an avid deer hunter, there’s a choice for everyone.
We’ll talk about some of the most advanced sniper scopes available today, and provide an in-depth buying guide so you know what to expect when selecting the best sniper scopes that fit your needs and budget.
Without any further ado, let’s take our aim and fire away!
Top 7 Best Sniper Scopes Review
Vortex Optics Viper HS-T Second Focal Plane (Editor Choice)
Whether you’re carting an M24 or a Barrett M82, it needs the companionship of a sniper scope. First of all, it has a magnification of 6x to 24x, enough to take a flea off a rabbit at 1000 yards. It outran its competitors for its MOA adjustments, an SFP reticle, and a muscular build that ousts the competition.
The icing is a reticle in the second focal plane that performs well in normal and long-range. A fast-focus eyepiece is provided that allows rapid adjustment of the reticule to the eye. Like all premium gun scopes, this too is completely sealed off from moisture incursion.
The target-style turrets allow for precise finger clicks that can be repeatedly adjusted to address all variables. Once you are well sighted into the scope, each turret can be zeroed.
Boosted by an XR coating, the light gathering capability is inflated. The Armortek coating is the shield that conserves the lens from scratches or damage of any kind.
No doubt the Vortex Viper is on top of the game. When we tried this scope out in the field, the parallax imposed an issue and required cheek adjustments in the sense that orientation of the head was called for. In all other respects, this scope surpassed excellence.
The Vortex Optics Viper also comes with a reasonable price tag considering the dedication that’s gone into this product.
Specifications
- Objective dia. : 50 mm
- Magnification: 6×24
- Field of view at 100 yards: 5.1-17.8 feet
- Material: Aircraft-grade aluminum
- Weight: 22.6 oz.
- Parallax: 50 yards to infinity
- Eye relief: 4 inch
Pros
- Amazing coatings on the lenses for excellent performance
- The turrets optimized for windage and elevation correction
- It can operate under all weather conditions.
- Fast-focusing eyepiece
- Has a parallax turret
Cons
- Eye relief a bit narrow on some settings
Our Verdict
No doubt this is the first choice of snipers from all around the globe. This versatile scope has what it takes to handle the harsh weather. We think this is one of the best sniper rifle scopes that you can get for under $600.
Its high quality build, amazing clarity up to 20x, crisp glass, tactical-style turrets, and other extraordinary features make it a must-buy for any avid hunters and shooting sports enthusiasts.
Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II First Focal Plane Riflescopes (Also Great)
PST is short for Practical Shooting Tactical. That is self-explanatory. You need to reach far out there, far, far out. Of course, performance and reliability have to be a part of the picture.
Lucky for you; the Viper PST Gen II is standing at your doorstep. Now as a sniper scope, what sets it apart? Vortex has upgraded to an integrated knob which is illuminated and has a parallax adjustment by side focus.
The entire profile is streamlined, which makes it simpler to use when hunting in the wild. The turrets are the robust tactical style which means they can be manipulated in cold weather when you have gloves on probably.
A fast-focus eyepiece is a part of it all but most importantly, instant magnification is a piece of the cake here when you sight through the glass. The front focal cross-hair is multi-coated with XD, a special formulation of Vortex’s research wing.
The reticle is glass-edged and great for close-range shots and if you miss, time to visit your ophthalmologist. Bullet drop and wind drift are superbly compensated. Now for that long shot- up the magnification and the superb optic will do the rest.
The optical quality of the PST is a notch better than the HST. The extra dispersion XD glass is especially designed for large objectives and is brilliant in its light-harvesting that long-range or tactical shooting calls for.
This is the first optic focal plane scope powerful enough to hit the target from 1000 yards away. With its high objective and lightweight, it is a definite possibility.
Specifications
- Objective dia. : 50 mm
- Magnification: 5x-25
- Field of view at 100 yards: 4.8-24.1 feet
- Material: Aircraft Grade Aluminium
- Weight: 31.2 oz
- Parallax: 25 yards to infinity
- Eye relief: 3.4 inch
Pros
- Laser-etched reticle
- Side focus parallax adjustments
- Target style elevation turret
- EBR -1 MOA reticle
Cons
- At lower ranges, eye relief is not adequate
Our Verdict
The Viper PST is undoubtedly a superior sniper scope that comes at a reasonable price. The customer service has received much praise. We too second this high user rating and consider it as an outstanding choice for those on a budget.
Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20×50 Parallax Adjustment Riflescopes (Budget Choice)
The Vortex Optics Viper SFP is a phenomenal riflescope. Many of its features are fantastic and give you a versatile experience. The BDC is set in the second focal plane that contributes to a seamless experience irrespective of the magnification level.
The lens coatings are superb and durable while the light transmission is terrific. The spring-based turret system gives superior turret performance. It has a precision glide magnification system and switching between zoom levels is a breeze.
The Vortex Viper scope we are reviewing has an excellent hunting reticle with many benefits. It’s a dead-hold BDC reticle. Some of the best multi-coated lenses have been incorporated in the reticle.
Special XR coatings are a feature that makes the target pop out distinctly by reducing light dispersion and promoting color fidelity. The ArmorTek coating ensures the lens stays scratch-free.
A fast-focus eyepiece makes your life easier to adjust to your target easily and to focus the reticle appropriately. Furthermore, it features a precision-glide erector system which allows zoom levels to be changed smoothly.
We indeed find the Vipers magnification and lens system top tier, providing a lot of value for any marksman or hunter. As it offers such a variable distance engagement it can be used anywhere between 300 yards to over 1000 yards.
The Viper’s biggest downside as we see it is that it is heavier than usual and the turrets cannot be locked. A locking arrangement sees to it that the turrets do not shift as a result of accidental bumps. It is hard to fathom how Vortex failed to see this. Even so, this is a nice piece of optical equipment we recommend to everyone.
Specifications
- Objective dia. : 50 mm
- Magnification: 6.5-20x
- Field of view at 100 yards: 17.4-6.2 feet
- Material: Aircraft Grade Aluminum
- Weight: 21.6 oz
- Parallax: 50 yards to infinity
- Eye relief: 3.1 inch
Pros
- SFP BDC reticle
- Parallax turret
- Great clarity
- Inexpensive
- Easy to use
- Multicoated lens
Cons
- Turrets cannot be locked
Our Verdict
The Viper is a scope model that will always top the chart. Team it up with a reliable firearm and winning at any target shooting competition will be a piece of cake. Bagging game is equally easy.
If you’re out there searching for the best scope for sniper rifle without breaking your bank, give this one a try and you won’t regret it.
Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II First Focal Plane Riflescopes (Sharpshooters Choice)
The Vortex Razor HD Gen II is a part of the PRS (Precision Rifle Series) shooters in the USA. No wonder that its popularity is on cloud nine as a sniper scope.
First focal planes are much in favor, especially among that elite group of long-distance shooters. The Vortex Gen II comes with a bunch of features that PRS shooters value a lot.
It has a massive 56mm objective and is not a lightweight scope at 48.5 oz. But this is a long-range firearm and you won’t be doing any shooting on your feet. Vortex Optics have assimilated the Razor scope with prime glass. An abundance of light enters the scope. This premium glass is further enhanced with:
- An APO Lens system with Index matching
- XR Plus anti-reflecting coatings
- Plasma Tech Coating
- Extra-low dispersion glass that is premium with HD lens elements
You can count the points of your quarry with ease, even against dark timber; thanks to the glass etched FPP reticle. There are 7 reticle options to choose from. The magnification of this scope is 4.5×27. At 27, a mile or a target 2000 meters away poses little problem.
This scope is awesome. It has unparalleled features and advanced scope is an understatement. The parallax knob, elevation, windage controls, and zeroing, are of true pedigree. If one has to find fault, it’s that because of the size of the objective, the mounting is a bit on the higher side. But nothing you can’t compensate for.
It retails at $1700-$2500 which calls for deep pockets. But what Vortex throws into the deal is the real stuff. Who knows you might be able to break the record of the longest kill shot with this one!
Specifications
- Objective dia.: 56 mm
- Magnification: 4.5×27
- Field of view at 100 yards: 25.3-4.4 feet
- Material: Aircraft-grey Aluminum
- Weight: 48.5 oz
- Parallax: 32 yards to infinity
- Eye relief: 3.7 inch
- Finish: Hard-Anodized
- Tube dia.: 34 mm
Pros
- Features multicoated lens
- Turrets can adjust with precision and lock
- Built for use in any weather
- Side-mounted parallax turret provided.
Cons
- Turrets don’t click
Our Verdict
For a long-distance hunter or a sniper, the Vortex Razor is a phenomenal choice. The turrets feature lockable adjustments which contribute to precise adjustment besides being extremely user-friendly.
The rest of the scope, especially the premium lenses provides great value for money. This is perhaps the best long range sniper scope you can get on today’s market.
Trijicon TR23 AccuPoint 5-20×50 Riflescope
The Trijicon Accupoint is a fine example of the meeting of superior quality with innovation. With a magnification range of 5x to 20x, it belongs to the lower spectrum of the zoom settings of sniper scopes. It has a second focal plane reticle that maintains size at all zoom settings.
The lenses are multi coated for enhanced durability, reduced distortion, and increased light transmission. The scope is made of aircraft-grade aluminum which is capable of weathering any environmental conditions.
The reticle special. It is illuminated without the use of batteries. In lieu, a tritium phosphor lamp provides the illumination for the reticle. This comes with a great benefit.
Any illumination pollution is prevented from distorting the image reaching the ocular lens. What you gain is the bonus of additional accuracy eliminating the risk of blinding you with its reticle glow.
We have always been great fans of Trijicon scopes. The Trijicon is the creator of the ACOG fixed power battle scope adopted by the US Army but they produce a large number of different optics.
We found the clarity of the AccuPoint unbelievable. The long eye-relief is a much-needed feature as it allows the scope to be mounted further down, keeping you insured against recoil harm. The always-on illumination without batteries is a huge asset.
We were disappointed that the scope is not one piece. For a scope as expensive as this, we would have expected it to be crafted from a single block of aluminum.
A Trijicon is never cheap but what it offers in return in terms of quality and performance is peerless. The Trijicon AccuPoint will set you back $1000 but no doubt it’s worth every cent.
Specifications
- Objective dia.: 50 mm
- Magnification: 5-20x
- Material: 6016-6T Aircraft-grade Aluminum
- Weight: 26.9 oz
- Parallax: 10 yards to infinity
- Eye relief: 3.8-4.1 inch
- Finish: Anodized hard coat
- Tube dia.: 30 mm
Pros
- The reticle is specially illuminated
- Distortion is reduced by the multi-coated lenses
- Weatherproof in all conditions
- Has a parallax turret
- Anodized hard coat body.
Cons
- Turrets do not lock
Our Verdict
The Trijicon AccuPoint is a matchless scope. It has an array of mind-boggling features. This great hunting scope easily allows a 1000-yard range, making it one of the few perfect choices for long range rifles.
It is also much in favor of law enforcement agencies, especially police snipers. The brilliant illumination system and anti-glare feature ensure their position is not revealed. We award full marks to AccuPoint.
Steiner Model 5122 T5Xi 5-25x 56mm Riflescope
A product of precise German engineering and rugged US manufacture, the new Steiner is a high-end scope for sale. They have redesigned the turrets, length, and weight restrictions.
The optic has one of the most commonly used reticles called SCR (Special Competition Reticle). The turrets have a one mil increment and are quite effective for use with mil-based crosshairs based on SCR.
A zero function stop is provided on the elevation turret that has a lower profile as well. A viewing window is incorporated in the elevation turret to avoid any guesswork as to when to take the shot.
5 ½ inch increments are possible once the windage turrets are zeroed in. The SCR reticles are uncluttered and your target is not obscured when shooting.
The Throwlever enables rapid magnification changes and the lens cover is of a special material (Tenebreux) which completely insulates it from dust and moisture.
The Steiner has some nifty features. We liked the Second Rotation Indicator that after 120 clicks, the numbers on the mil scale change automatically so as to avoid the shooter getting lost on the dial.
The eye box is generous and the eye relief abundant. There is no hint of tunnel vision at lower magnifications commonly observed in cheaper versions.
As our veteran marksmen testified, it offered matchless reliability in field conditions. But this is an expensive scope that will set you back around $2000, still a great purchase for the money.
Specifications
- Objective dia. :56 mm
- Magnification: 5-25x
- Field of view at 100 yards: 21.5-4.3 feet
- Material: Aluminum
- Weight: 33 oz.
- Eye relief: 3.5-4.3 inch
- Finish: Matte
- Tube dia.: 34 mm
Pros
- Locking Diopter
- Consistent eye relief
- A throw lever for swift changes in magnification
- Weatherproof
Cons
- Expensive
Our Verdict
This feature-rich scope is affordable for all. Innovative features like the window in the elevation adjustment turret are the hallmark of a manufacturer who wants to present a more efficient and better-performing scope. When it comes to affordability, this is one of the best sniper scopes for you.
Do remember, the Steiner is a collaboration between German engineering well known for its superior optics, and the US which is a giant in its manufacturing skills. The Steiner will surely make you a proud owner.
Burris Optics XTR II Riflescope
The Burris is a long-distance riflescope having a magnification of 8x and 40x. Even an experienced marksman would find that overwhelming.
The glass for this scope is extraordinary and of an unsurpassed quality that results in a bright sight picture even in depressed light conditions. To make it even better, the reticle is self-illuminating, increasing accuracy at dusk or dawn.
The reticle is a first focal plane. The frame is made of a durable material and will serve you for many years. It is fog proof and waterproof so weather conditions are not an impediment. A user ring is provided to adjust the scope’s magnification making it a smooth affair to adjust to your individual preferences.
This sniper scope features great click stop adjustment knobs for the settings related to wind, elevation, and parallax modifications. The click is quite resonant so the shooter needs not to take his eyes off his target. These turrets are splendid for long-distance sniping making sure every shot counts.
As is to be expected, the clarity at 40x is foggy as we found. This is also a great scope for the 338 Lapua Magnum.
Specifications
- Objective dia.: 50 mm
- Magnification: 8-20x
- Field of view at 100 yards: 13.2-2.8 feet
- Material: Aluminum
- Weight: 31.4 oz
- Eye relief: 3.5 -4.4 inches
- Finish: Matte Black
- Tube dia.: 34 mm
Pros
- The lenses featured are some of the best
- The reticle is illuminated
- Durable build
- Adjustment turrets click satisfyingly
Cons
- Turrets are a bit extended and bulky
Our Verdict
All things considered, this long range scope is the real deal. Its reticle is capable enough for dusk to dawn sniping. When it comes to having control over your shots, the Burris XTR II is one of the best snipers scopes I’ve worked with so far.
The excellent lenses are well protected and furnish a fantastic night sight picture. The adjustment knobs that are zero-click are also staggering and long-distance shots offer superb user control.
Buying Guide For The Best Scope For Sniper Rifle
1. Durability
You surely need to go in for a sniper scope that is built to last. As a hunter, this is of paramount importance. In situations that demand sniping or long-range shooting, you may need to go prone on the ground and your scope will take a knock or two.
The best sniper scopes on the market will be durable and provide reliable performance regardless of the environmental conditions. If you take good care of your scope, it should remain functional for at least a couple of years.
2. Magnification
The magnification gets high priority and requires in-depth contemplation. If you often take part in long-range shooting or hunting activities, it is advised to opt for an upper-hand scope for your firearm for accuracy and precision.
Ask yourself two questions first: What will you be using your scope for and what do you need it for? Basically, you need to answer whether it is short-range or long-range shooting you plan on. This will tell you what your magnification needs are.
For long-range shooting and an impeccable shot, you would need about 18x magnification. A sniper scope in the range of 18 and 25 is the best.
If, however, hunting is what you propose to use it for, consider lower levels of zoom. The best ones in this scenario would be those between 5 and 25.
3. Zoom Type
Invariably most marksmen opt for a variable zoom scope. It should come as a surprise to you that most military snipers prefer a fixed 10x zoom. The reasons are manifold; simplicity heightened reliability and enhanced light transmission as compared to variable scopes.
Variable scopes have many advantages. They can take on a wider range of distances with ease. This is of particular advantage for competition shooters and hunters who expect to aim at various yardages.
The field of view might be limited needlessly with a fixed 10x scope causing the loss of the target due to a millisecond’s delay.
4. Objective diameter
What is the right choice of the objective diameter that is appropriate for you?
A sniper scope should have a large objective diameter, 50mm is the recommended size. Beyond a certain limit – which is normally 56mm – the gains begin to taper off.
For good light transmission purposes, 56mm is a decent size. Going any higher will have an insignificant effect on light transmission. Furthermore, a large diameter objective makes it difficult to align your eye with the crosshair because of its size.
5. Type of reticle
There is no dearth of the different kinds of reticles out there. The Vanilla Crosshairs, the Duplex, the BDC, and the Mildot. Each has its distinctive advantages for ranged participation. When you are talking about sniping engagements, you need a reticle that can hold for wind, that has horizontal markings.
This is because at long distances, owing to the wing and the rotation of the earth, the horizontal trajectory of a shot is affected. The other option is holding for elevation but many shooters prefer dialing for elevation instead.
The mil-dot is one reticule that helps you hold both wind and elevation – the main reason it’s the first choice of professional snipers.
You need to consider your personal preference in the choice of reticle. The main objective is to narrow in on a reticle that allows you to compensate for both wind and elevation.
6. Quality glass and coating
If one has to place a finger on the most critical part of any sniper scope, it would have to be the glass. This permits the shooter to sight clearly at short ranges.
At long distances, windage and parallax may cause mirages. A quality glass helps in judging this effect. This is the main reason your scope should be equipped with a top-quality glass.
Your target is at a fair distance, so the optic should amass all possible light to extend to you a clear and bright sight picture with the highest magnification possible.
Always hunt for multi coated lenses or a lens of similar quality to make sure your scope functions to its maximum potential at far distances.
Needless to say, the scopes in our selection have advanced or multi coated lenses so that it’s worth your time. These scopes come with proprietary coatings to keep the lens scratch-proof.
Get your glass from trusted companies that have created a niche in this area. They may be expensive. There is no merit in getting a cheap glass and botching up your shooting.
7. Elevation adjustment
This basically boils down to bullet drop compensation. Obviously, at long ranges, this will be greater. 70 MOA or more should be your preference.
There will arise situations where your setting may have to be 65 MOA. In such situations, if your scope hits bottom at 50 MOA you may have to manually reposition the reticle.
8. Turret quality
You do want to narrow in on scopes having good elevation and windage turrets. It is a pre-qualification that they are simple to adjust.
They should be able to offer precise increments in adjustment as this is critical when compensation of these two variables becomes a dire need when aiming for a long shot.
Look for turrets having parallax turrets otherwise objectives that are adjustable to eliminate the parallax effects when taking distant shots.
9. First and Second Focal Planes
Importantly, consider whether the sniper scope is an FFP or an SFP on it. An FFP reticle becomes larger when magnification is increased and vice-versa. This permits the holdover points of the reticle to remain faultless irrespective of the zoom levels.
SFP reticles are equally helpful. Their size remains unchanged no matter the magnification level. However, they require on your side some estimation as, in most settings, holdover points will not be perfectly accurate. Choosing which kind you want is a matter of personal choice.
10. Reliability, Accuracy, and Functionality
These are perhaps the most important aspects you need to look for when selecting the best sniper scopes for you. These parameters need to be checked scrupulously. If it meets your expectations, you really need not worry.
If they come guaranteed, all the better to choose. Do your research well. There are quite a number of purchasing guides on the Interest.
11. Warranty & Budget
Military grade rugged sniper scopes don’t come cheap because they have passed several torture tests to be eligible for military use. These tests often include the application of sand, fog, spray, mud, and salt. The price range is from $500 to $3500 or even more.
What’s So Special about Sniper Scopes?
The design of tactical sniper scopes helps you get that long-distance shot just right. They impart extra range, greater clarity, and super-precise instrumentation to make offset windage, elevation, and parallax.
Sniper scopes are to be found in a whole range of specs, each having its own special reticle and turret adjustment. This means that there is a tactical sniper scope to suit any rifle. There is a flip side to this though. It can be difficult for the average hunter to figure out which sniper scope is the best fit.
Taking down a game from 1000 yards away or just hitting a bullseye from that far gives a sense of great thrill. Close-and mid-range competition shooting comes nowhere near.
Long-range sniping to create such a bullet trajectory requires not only a rifle/ caliber but also a scope that you are able to aim precisely and hit your target.
A sniper scope is more special than most other scopes. No wonder that these are the preferred scopes of the military and law enforcement agencies.
Sniper Scope Care & Maintenance Tips
Every shooter would much prefer to see a clear vision through their riflescope and not some grubby, grimy shadow of what they’re looking at. Just as you do with your rifle, you should take extra care of your scope. When well maintained, a sniper rifle scope works like a charm.
Clean Regularly
A sniper scope needs attention and cleaning just like your rifle. On a hunting trip, your scope is bound to trap dirt, dust, grime, water, and more. If it is not cleaned properly and promptly, you are asking for lens damage. You can use an anti-fog cleaner to get rid of the water spot.
Clean The Scope with Smooth Objects
Various types of scope brushes and cleaning kits are available from various companies. Invest in one that extends extra care to your sniper scope. When wiping the scope’s exterior make sure it is oil and grease-free.
Microfiber Cloth
Employ a microfiber cloth in doing away with fingerprints or smudges from the surface of the lens. Being a cloth that is free of chemicals, it is safe for use in cleaning plastic, multi coated lenses, or glass.
This type of cloth is pretty thick and easily removes tiny particles. Never use an ordinary rag, paper towels, or napkins. They leave lint and fine scratches behind.
When Storing, Wrap it in Plastic
It is essential to keep the scope dry when not in use to prevent it from being affected by moisture or humidity.
Keep Your Kit Safe
It certainly does not help if your kit traps dust which will tarnish the scope. Wash the microfiber cloth thoroughly after every use.
Cleaning Turrets
Turrets are essential parts of your scope. Keep the caps on when not using. From time to time, remove the caps and dust inside to eliminate any stacked dirt.
FAQs
1. What magnification do you need for sniping?
Ans: The lower the level of magnification, the faster you can lock onto a target. A magnification level of 4x or 6x is ideal. For long ranges 10x is recommended and if it is a moving object you need to go a bit higher.
2. What scope does a marine sniper use?
Ans: The Marine Corps uses the Nightforce ATACR rifle scope that can also be used by civilians.
3. Why do snipers use bolt action?
Ans: Bolt action rifle means that only one round can be fired and you reload again. They are preferred because unlike semi-automatic weapons, they have fewer moving parts, are easily maintainable in rugged conditions, and very unlikely to malfunction.
4. Why do snipers have long barrels?
Ans: In general, the longer the length of the barrel, the faster a bullet can travel. There is however a practical limit depending on the cartridge. A faster bullet means a more effective range.
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