We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Sniper Scopes 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 34mm Tube Precise Illuminated First Focal Plane Dark Earth Hunting Gun Scope, Moar F1 Reticle, C689

The Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 is a high-end sniper scope designed for serious hunters and long-range shooters who need top precision and flexibility. Its wide magnification range from 7x to 35x lets you zoom in closely for distant targets or keep a broader view when needed. The large 56mm objective lens gathers plenty of light, ensuring clear and bright images even in low-light conditions, which is great for dawn or dusk hunting. The MOAR F1 reticle is placed in the first focal plane, meaning its markings stay accurate at any zoom level, helping with precise aiming and range calculations. This reticle includes illuminated features to improve visibility in varying lighting.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,164
Turrets

Most important from
6 reviews

Turrets
Turrets offer precise, smooth adjustments that inspire confidence in fine-tuning shots.
#2
8.5 score

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

The ZEISS LRP S3 6-36x56 First Focal Plane MOA Riflescope is a high-end option designed for long-range shooting and hunting. It offers a wide magnification range from 6x to 36x, making it versatile for different distances. The 56mm objective lens diameter helps in gathering more light, which is beneficial in low-light conditions. The advanced optics, including Extra Low Dispersion (ED) glass and ZEISS T* multi-coated lenses, ensure excellent clarity and 90% light transmission.

Rating
8.5
Magnification
Reticle
Parallax Adjustment

Most important from
16 reviews

Magnification
With cheaper scopes, you need a spotter with a 60x scope to find your misses, but this one lets you see missed shots easily even at 800 yards.
Reticle
One user experienced issues with parallax adjustments and reticle alignment, which affected the point of impact.
Parallax Adjustment
One user experienced issues with parallax adjustments and reticle alignment, which affected the point of impact.
Eye Relief
The glass is the best out of all of them, with precise adjustments and forgiving eye-relief, making the scope easy to get behind.
Turrets
Illumination is bright, and the turrets are a pleasure to work with.
#3
8.5 score

Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm F1 30mm Tube Illuminated ZeroSet Parallax Adjustable First Focal Plane Hunting Gun Scope, Moar F1 (C624)

The Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm F1 scope is designed for serious shooters who need precision and versatility. With a magnification range from 4x to 32x, it allows users to target both close and distant objects effectively, making it suitable for various shooting situations whether you’re hunting or engaging in precision shooting. The first focal plane design ensures that the reticle scales with magnification, which is a great feature for accurate aiming and ranging at different distances.

Rating
8.5
Turrets

Most important from
76 reviews

Turrets
Turrets track with precision, making adjustments easy and accurate.

Top 10 Best Sniper Scopes 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0  score

Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 34mm Tube Precise Illuminated First Focal Plane Dark Earth Hunting Gun Scope, Moar F1 Reticle, C689

Magnification: 7-35x
Objective Lens Diameter: 56 mm
Reticle: MOAR F1 with DigIllum PTL
Parallax Adjustment: 11 yards to infinity
Eye Relief: 3.6 inches
Turrets: ZeroStop feature

Chosen by 1164 this week

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

Magnification: 6-36x
Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm
Reticle: Illum. ZF-MOAi Reticle
Turrets: Ballistic Stop, External Locking Windage

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

Magnification: 3-15x
Objective Lens Diameter: 44mm
Reticle: Illuminated FireDot Duplex
Parallax Adjustment: Side focus
Field of View: 38.3 feet
Eye Relief: Good
Turrets: CDS-ZL2 turret, 2 revolutions, lock

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

Magnification: 5-25x
Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm
Reticle: EBR-7C MOA
Parallax Adjustment: Side parallax with range markings
Eye Relief: 3.6 Inches
Turrets: Up to 85 MOA, RevStop Zero

Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x56 (30mm) CDS-ZL2 Side Focus Illum. FireDot Duplex Reticle Riflescope

Magnification: 3-15x
Objective Lens Diameter: 56 mm
Reticle: Illuminated FireDot Duplex
Parallax Adjustment: Side focus
Field of View: 38.2 feet
Turrets: CDS-ZL2 dials, push-button ZeroLock
How do we rank products for you?

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.

headphones-stars

Buying Guide for the Best Sniper Scopes

Choosing the right sniper scope can significantly enhance your shooting accuracy and overall experience. It's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your specific needs. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced shooter, knowing what to look for in a sniper scope will help you make an informed decision. Here are the key specs to consider when selecting a sniper scope and how to navigate them.
MagnificationMagnification refers to how much closer the target appears through the scope compared to the naked eye. This is crucial because it determines how well you can see your target at various distances. Scopes with lower magnification (1-4x) are suitable for short-range shooting, offering a wider field of view and easier target acquisition. Medium magnification (5-12x) is ideal for mid-range shooting, providing a balance between field of view and target detail. High magnification (12x and above) is best for long-range shooting, allowing you to see distant targets clearly but with a narrower field of view. Choose the magnification based on the typical distances you plan to shoot.
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 diameters (40-56mm) allow more light, making them better for low-light conditions like dawn or dusk. However, they can also make the scope heavier and bulkier. Smaller diameters (20-40mm) are lighter and more compact but may not perform as well in low light. Consider where and when you'll be shooting to determine the right objective lens size for you.
ReticleThe reticle, or crosshair, is the aiming point you see when looking through the scope. Different reticle designs serve various purposes. Simple crosshairs are good for general shooting, while more complex designs like mil-dot or BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticles help with range estimation and bullet drop compensation. Illuminated reticles are useful in low-light conditions. Choose a reticle based on your shooting style and the level of precision you need.
Parallax AdjustmentParallax adjustment helps ensure that the reticle stays on target even if you move your eye slightly. This is important for long-range shooting where precision is critical. Scopes with adjustable parallax allow you to fine-tune the focus at different distances, reducing aiming errors. Fixed parallax scopes are simpler and sufficient for short to mid-range shooting. If you plan to shoot at varying distances, especially long-range, a scope with parallax adjustment is beneficial.
Field of ViewField of view (FOV) is the width of the area you can see through the scope at a given distance, usually measured in feet at 100 yards. A wider FOV allows you to see more of the surroundings, making it easier to track moving targets and acquire new ones. Lower magnification scopes typically offer a wider FOV, while higher magnification scopes have a narrower FOV. Consider your need for situational awareness versus target detail when choosing the FOV.
Eye ReliefEye relief is the distance between your eye and the scope where you can see the full image. This is important for comfort and safety, especially with high-recoil rifles. Longer eye relief (3-4 inches) is better for high-recoil firearms, preventing the scope from hitting your eye. Shorter eye relief (1-3 inches) can be acceptable for low-recoil rifles. Choose eye relief based on the type of rifle you use and your comfort level.
TurretsTurrets are the knobs on the scope used to adjust windage (left/right) and elevation (up/down). Precise and easy-to-use turrets are crucial for making accurate adjustments, especially at long ranges. Some scopes have exposed turrets for quick adjustments, while others have capped turrets to prevent accidental changes. Consider how often you'll need to make adjustments and whether you prefer quick access or protection from accidental movements.

FAQ