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10 Best Rifle Scope For Hunting 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Vortex Optics Venom 5-25x56 First Focal Plane Riflescope - EBR-7C (MOA) Reticle

The Vortex Optics Venom 5-25x56 First Focal Plane Riflescope is designed primarily for long-range hunting and competition. It offers a substantial magnification range from 5x to 25x, giving hunters flexibility in various scenarios. The large 56mm objective lens enhances light transmission for clear images even in low-light conditions, critical for dawn or dusk hunts. The EBR-7C reticle ensures precision at all magnifications, which is beneficial for accurate target measurement and ranging. Additionally, the scope's eye relief of 3.6 inches provides comfort and safety, especially with high-recoil rifles.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,297
Magnification
Durability and Weather Resistance

Most important from
859 reviews

Magnification
Magnification is mind blowing and the clarity is exceptional, making it worth every penny.
Durability and Weather Resistance
The scope holds up well even on a bolt action 338 Lapua Mag, showing its durability.
#2
9.7 score

Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm F1 30mm Tube Illuminated ZeroSet First Focal Plane Dark Earth Hunting Gun Scope, Moar F1 Reticle (C687)

The Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm scope is a versatile and powerful choice for hunters who need precision at various distances. Its wide magnification range from 4x to 32x allows you to easily switch between close, fast-moving targets and distant small game, offering a lot of flexibility in the field. The large 50mm objective lens helps gather plenty of light, contributing to clear, bright images even in low-light conditions like dawn or dusk. This scope’s MOAR F1 reticle is designed for accuracy, featuring clear, bold aiming points and fine markings that help with precise shot placement and range estimation. The first focal plane reticle means the aiming points stay accurate at all magnification levels, which is a significant benefit for long-range hunting.

Rating
9.7
Magnification
Eye Relief
Durability and Weather Resistance

Most important from
12 reviews

Magnification
The scope delivers exceptional clarity and sharpness, making it possible to spot shots at 100 yards without any special targets.
Eye Relief
The eye relief is comfortable and well-suited to prevent recoil-related discomfort during use.
Durability and Weather Resistance
This optic represents a significant step up in quality from entry-level scopes, reflecting outstanding craftsmanship and durability.
#3
9.1 score

ZEISS LRP S3 6-36x56 First Focal Plane MOA Riflescope with Illuminated Reticle

The ZEISS LRP S3 6-36x56 riflescope is built for serious long-range hunting, offering a wide magnification range from 6x to 36x which allows you to zoom in closely on distant targets. Its large 56mm objective lens helps gather plenty of light, providing a bright and clear view even in lower light conditions like dawn or dusk. The first focal plane design means the reticle scales with magnification, so holdover marks stay accurate at any zoom level. The illuminated reticle with both red and green options and five brightness levels enhances aiming precision during different lighting situations, focusing illumination on the center only to avoid clutter. It also features a locking windage turret and a ballistic stop, making it easier to adjust and return to zero quickly — a big help when hunting in windy conditions or changing distances.

Rating
9.1
Magnification
Objective Lens Diameter
Reticle

Most important from
18 reviews

Magnification
The image remains sharp and clear with no edge distortion or chromatic aberration, even at maximum magnification.
Objective Lens Diameter
The glass quality stands out as the best among several high-end scopes, delivering exceptional clarity and brightness even in low light.
Reticle
Illumination is bright with multiple color and brightness options, enhancing aiming precision without cluttering the view.
Eye Relief
The forgiving eye-relief and wide eye-box make it easy to get behind the scope comfortably.
Parallax Adjustment
Adjustments are precise and the turrets provide a crisp, satisfying feel that makes fine-tuning straightforward.
Durability and Weather Resistance
The build is solid and attractive, reflecting quality craftsmanship designed to withstand tough outdoor conditions.

Top 10 Best Rifle Scope For Hunting 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0  score

Vortex Optics Venom 5-25x56 First Focal Plane Riflescope - EBR-7C (MOA) Reticle

Magnification: 5-25x
Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm
Reticle: EBR-7C
Eye Relief: 3.6 Inches
Durability and Weather Resistance: Nitrogen-purged, O-ring sealed, water-proof

Chosen by 1297 this week

Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm F1 30mm Tube Illuminated ZeroSet First Focal Plane Dark Earth Hunting Gun Scope, Moar F1 Reticle (C687)

Magnification: 4-32x
Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
Reticle: MOAR F1
Eye Relief: 3.5 inches
Parallax Adjustment: starts as close as 11 yards
Durability and Weather Resistance: durable and weather resistant

ZEISS LRP S3 6-36x56 First Focal Plane MOA Riflescope with Illuminated Reticle

Magnification: 6-36x
Objective Lens Diameter: 56 mm
Reticle: Illuminated, red/green, 5 brightness levels
Field of View: 20.4 feet
Durability and Weather Resistance: 34mm tube, thick metal, shock tested

Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 (30mm) CDS-ZL2 Side Focus Duplex Reticle Riflescope

Magnification: 3-15x
Objective Lens Diameter: 44mm
Reticle: Fine Duplex
Field of View: 38.3 feet
Parallax Adjustment: Side focus
Durability and Weather Resistance: Waterproof, fogproof, shockproof

Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-9x50 Second Focal Plane, 1-inch Tube Riflescope - Straight-Wall BDC Reticle

Magnification: 3-9x
Objective Lens Diameter: 50
Reticle: Straight Wall BDC
Eye Relief: generous
Field of View: 32 Feet
Durability and Weather Resistance: Aircraft-grade aluminum, O-ring sealed

Swarovski dS 5-25x52 P GEN. II - 4A-I Riflescope 71002

Magnification: 5 to 25 times
Objective Lens Diameter: 52 mm
Reticle: 4A-I illuminated holdover reticle
Field of View: 21.9 feet
Parallax Adjustment: built-in
Durability and Weather Resistance: Titanium, weather resistant

ZEISS LRP S3 6-36x56 First Focal Plane MRAD Riflescope with Illuminated Reticle

Magnification: 6-36x
Objective Lens Diameter: 56 mm
Reticle: Illuminated ZF-MRAD
Field of View: 20.4 feet
Durability and Weather Resistance: 34mm aluminum tube, shock resistant, LotuTec coating
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Buying Guide for the Best Rifle Scope For Hunting

Choosing the right rifle scope for hunting is crucial to ensure accuracy, precision, and a successful hunting experience. A good rifle scope can make a significant difference in your ability to spot and hit your target, especially in varying environmental conditions. When selecting a rifle scope, it's important to consider several key specifications that will affect your performance and suitability for different hunting scenarios. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and find the best fit for your needs.
MagnificationMagnification refers to how much closer the target appears through the scope compared to the naked eye. This is important because it determines how well you can see your target at different distances. Scopes typically have fixed or variable magnification. Fixed magnification scopes are simpler and more durable, while variable magnification scopes offer flexibility for different ranges. For close to mid-range hunting (up to 200 yards), a magnification of 1-4x is usually sufficient. For mid to long-range hunting (200-500 yards), 4-12x magnification is more appropriate. For long-range hunting (beyond 500 yards), you may need 12x or higher. Choose the magnification based on the typical distance you will be shooting.
Objective Lens DiameterThe objective lens diameter is the size of the front lens of the scope, measured in millimeters. This spec is important because it affects the amount of light that enters the scope, impacting image brightness and clarity. Larger objective lenses (40mm and above) allow more light, which is beneficial in low-light conditions such as dawn or dusk. However, larger lenses can also make the scope heavier and bulkier. For general hunting purposes, an objective lens diameter of 40-50mm is a good balance between light transmission and portability. If you often hunt in low-light conditions, consider a larger diameter.
ReticleThe reticle, or crosshair, is the aiming point you see when looking through the scope. Different reticle designs serve different purposes. Simple duplex reticles are easy to use and suitable for most hunting situations. BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticles help estimate bullet drop at various distances, which is useful for long-range shooting. Mil-dot reticles allow for range estimation and windage adjustments. Choose a reticle based on your hunting style and the distances you typically shoot. For general hunting, a duplex reticle is often sufficient. For long-range or precision shooting, consider a BDC or mil-dot reticle.
Eye ReliefEye relief is the distance between your eye and the scope at which you can see the full field of view. This is important for comfort and safety, especially when using high-recoil rifles. Scopes with longer eye relief (3-4 inches or more) are preferable as they reduce the risk of the scope hitting your eye during recoil. If you use a high-recoil rifle, prioritize scopes with longer eye relief. For lower recoil rifles, standard eye relief (around 3 inches) is usually adequate.
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 allows you to see more of the surrounding area, which is helpful for tracking moving targets and situational awareness. Lower magnification scopes generally offer a wider FOV. For hunting in dense forests or areas with a lot of movement, a wider FOV is beneficial. For long-range hunting where precision is more critical, a narrower FOV may be acceptable.
Parallax AdjustmentParallax adjustment is a feature that allows you to correct parallax error, which occurs when the reticle appears to move relative to the target when you shift your head. This is important for maintaining accuracy at different distances. Scopes with parallax adjustment are particularly useful for long-range shooting. If you primarily hunt at shorter ranges, parallax adjustment may not be necessary. For long-range hunting, consider a scope with this feature to ensure precise aiming.
Durability and Weather ResistanceDurability and weather resistance are crucial for a hunting scope, as it will be exposed to various environmental conditions. Look for scopes that are waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof to ensure they can withstand rain, humidity, and rough handling. Scopes with robust construction and high-quality materials will last longer and perform better in the field. If you hunt in harsh conditions, prioritize scopes with strong durability and weather resistance features.

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