10 Best Riffle Scopes 2026 in the United States

The Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 riflescope is a high-quality option designed for hunting enthusiasts. It offers a versatile magnification range from 3x to 15x, making it suitable for both short and long-range shooting. The 44mm objective lens diameter ensures good light transmission, contributing to clear and bright images, even in low light conditions. The illuminated FireDot Duplex Reticle aids in target acquisition, particularly in poor lighting, which is a significant advantage for hunters.

Additionally, the side focus parallax adjustment allows for quick and precise focusing from any shooting position, enhancing the shooting experience. The scope is built with durability in mind; it is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, ensuring it can withstand harsh environmental conditions. The Guard-ion lens coating is a notable feature that helps maintain a clear view by repelling dirt and water.

The Custom Dial System (CDS) with ZeroLock 2 is a unique feature that allows for easy, accurate elevation adjustments and prevents accidental dial movement. This is particularly beneficial for shooters who need to make quick adjustments in the field. However, it’s worth noting that the scope is relatively heavy at 1 pound, which might be a consideration for some users. Additionally, the price point may be higher compared to other models, making it an investment for serious shooters. The scope does not have night vision capabilities, which could be a drawback for those needing this feature.

In summary, the Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 riflescope is a robust and feature-rich option ideal for hunters seeking reliability and precision in a variety of conditions.

The Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 rifle scope is designed for serious long-range shooters, including hunters and competitive shooters. Its magnification range from 7x to a remarkable 35x allows for precise target acquisition at various distances, making it highly versatile. The 56mm objective lens ensures ample light transmission for clear images even in low-light conditions.

The first focal plane (FFP) reticle ensures that the reticle size adjusts with magnification, maintaining accuracy at any range. The MIL-XT reticle offers fine aiming points and quick reference under stressful conditions, which is beneficial for competitive shooting and hunting scenarios. The parallax adjustment down to 10 meters and 100 MOA elevation travel provide excellent precision for both short and long-range shooting. The ZeroStop feature is a convenient addition, allowing for a quick return to zero settings.

With an eye relief of 3.6 inches, the scope can be comfortably used with various rifles, maintaining safe distance from recoil. However, at 39.3 ounces, it is relatively heavy, which might be a drawback for users prioritizing lightweight gear. The scope's durability and weather resistance are top-notch, ensuring reliable performance in harsh conditions. It is also quite expensive, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. The Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 is an excellent choice for those who need high performance and precision in long-range shooting, but its weight and price might be potential downsides for some users.

The ZEISS LRP S3 6-36x56 riflescope is designed for long-range shooting and hunting, offering an impressive magnification range from 6x up to 36x. This wide zoom makes it suitable for spotting targets at various distances, giving you flexibility in the field. With a large 56mm objective lens, it gathers plenty of light, which helps maintain a clear and bright image, especially in low-light conditions. The scope’s advanced optics, including special glass and multi-coated lenses, ensure sharp visuals with minimal distortion.

A standout feature is its first focal plane illuminated reticle, which stays accurate throughout the zoom range. The reticle can be illuminated in red or green and has multiple brightness levels, allowing precise aiming under different lighting situations. The field of view is about 20 feet at 100 yards, which is a reasonable balance between detail and overview. Durability is a strong point: the scope’s 34mm tube is made of sturdy metal with thick walls, and it’s tested to handle heavy recoil and harsh outdoor conditions. It also has a ballistic stop system for reliable return to zero and an external locking windage turret for quick wind adjustment, features that are very useful for serious long-range shooters.

The scope is relatively heavy at around 39 ounces, which might be a consideration if you prefer lighter setups for long hunts. It also doesn’t have night vision compatibility, so it’s not ideal for very low-light or nocturnal use. The premium build and advanced features come with a higher price tag, which might not suit casual shooters. This ZEISS scope suits dedicated long-range hunters and shooters who need precise adjustments, excellent glass clarity, and rugged construction. For those prioritizing high performance in tough conditions and flexible magnification, it stands out as a strong choice, though lighter or more budget-friendly options exist.