The .50 Browning Machine Gun is regarded as a beast on the range and field because of its matchless long-range performance. This post highlights the best scopes for 50 BMG to help you find the best scope for your long-range rifle. Read on and open a new world of long-range shooting.
To hit targets at 2000 yards out which is the effective range of the 50 BMG accurately requires a scope engineered for long-range use. Using the right scope for 50 BMG makes hunting and shooting simpler.
A rifle scope assists in quick target acquisition and guarantees precise shots even at long ranges. But choosing the best scopes for 50 BMG is not the most pleasant task.
Filtering through the numerous long-range scopes in the market can be a taxing affair especially if you aren’t aware of the aspects that define a good scope for 50 BMG.
You don’t have to worry; we are here to help. Before we divulge the best scopes for 50 BMG, let’s probe the attributes of a good 50 BMG. Shall We?
What Makes a Great 50 BMG Scope?
A scope for 50 BMG should be reliable. For long-range shooting, reliability is very essential. Holding at zero, repeatability and seamless tracking are good indicators of reliable scope. Good scope for 50 BMG should be able to hold zero no matter the abuse pelleted towards it.
The turrets of the scope should provide accurate and instantaneous reticle adjustments flawlessly. This helps the shooter to take clear-cut shots across all magnifications.
Tracking is also paramount when taking long-range shots. A scope that isn’t tracking properly results in errors that take the shot completely of the target.
Another key attribute of a long-range scope is superb glass and top-notch optics. Blurriness and poor-quality images mute long-range shooting.
Visual clarity is enhanced by the high-quality glass and multiple lens coatings. These two aspects help optimize light transmission resulting in sharp images across all magnification powers.
Reticle matters on a grand scale in long-range scopes. The best scopes for 50 BMG should have range-finding reticles. Most long-range reticles use MOA or MIL markings.
The position of the reticle also matters and scopes with reticles on the first focal plane are best suited for long-range shooting.
Since the reticle changes as power is changed in an FFP scope, the shooter can range the targets with inch-perfect precision and make faultless windage and elevation adjustments.
The best scopes for 50 BMG should have outstanding build quality. The tubes housing the optics should be made of high-quality materials for rigidity and durability.
Purging with dry gases and sealing the tubes completely also helps keep the tube moisture-free to dependable across different environmental conditions.
10 Best Scopes for 50 BMG
With so many scopes available on the market today, not all are ideal for use with the 50 BMG. This round is extremely powerful so it requires a strong scope. We have compiled a list of the best scopes for 50 BMG available in the market. Let’s take a look.
1) Nightforce NXS 5.5-22x56mm Scope
The Nightforce NXS 5.5-22x56mm is one of the best scopes for 50 BMG out there. The scope shines in long-range shooting and harbors a plethora of aspects that make long-range shooting a breeze.
It offers exceptional accuracy even at long ranges and the versatility you need to engage targets at different ranges. What makes the scope stand out is that it is designed with the 50 BMG in mind. It has a variable magnification that spans from 5.5x to 22x for use at both medium and long ranges.
To complement the high magnification, the scope features high-quality optics that deliver outstanding image crispness and color contrast at every magnification. Further, it has a full 80 MOA of elevation adjustment and a side parallax adjustment for smooth parallax correction.
This scope is toughly built to offer unmatched durability. It is crafted from magnesium alloy which enhances both strength and durability while remaining light. It also features an oversized zero stop, a generous eye relief and a magnification knob that is redesigned for ease of use.
This proven long-range scope is what you need to take down the furthest targets with a .50 BMG. High resolution and clarity across all the magnification powers help you take down targets 2000 yards away confidently. Open an entirely new world of long-range shooting with this remarkable hunting scope.
Features
- 80 MOA of elevation
- Side parallax adjustment
- Forceplex reticle with a center-only illumination
- High-quality optics
- ZeroSet technology
- Broad 5.5-22x magnification
Pros
- Clear glass
- Generous eye relief
- Easy to use
Cons
- High cost
2) Athlon Optics Argos 6-24 x 50 mm FFP Rifle Scopes
If you are a beginner in hunting or shooting with the 50 BMG, this Argos 6-24 x 50 mm FFP Rifle Scope suits you. It is not only equipped with features that are easy to use but also affordable making it one of the best scopes for 50 BMG for those on a budget.
The riflescope has a versatile 4x zoom which makes it ideal for multiple shooting disciplines. At close ranges, it offers a large field of view for simple target scanning.
It offers rich detail at high magnification for accurate target acquisition. Additionally, this scope boasts fully multi-coated optics which provide brighter images even in low-light environments.
Another remarkable thing about the scope is the durable make. It is crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum which provides exceptional strength as well as superb mechanical integrity.
It is also shockproof to stand up to recoil and heavy impacts, and fully waterproof and fog-proof to offer reliable performance even in the harshest weather conditions.
Features
- Glass-etched first focal plane reticle
- Precision zero stop
- Variable magnification
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- Heat-treated 1-piece tube
- Rugged aircraft-grade aluminum housing
Pros
- Superfine illuminated reticle
- Easy to use
- Reasonably inexpensive
- Portability
Cons
- None
3) Vortex Diamondback Tactical 6-24x50mm Rifle Scope
If you are looking for a first focal plane scope that is reasonably affordable, the Diamondback Tactical 6-24x50mm Rifle Scope is your best option. Although reasonably priced, the scope delivers performance that mirrors that of the top-tier riflescopes.
Enhanced visibility and reliability make the Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 FFP rifle scope a leader among the best scopes for 50 BMG. The scope tracks perfectly with good audible clicks from the turrets.
With the reticle being on the first focal plane, you will have an easy time using the sub-tensions up to the highest magnification level which is very resourceful in long-range shooting a specialty of the .50 BMG.
The scope boasts fully multi-coated lenses to improve visibility especially in low-light settings. Even better, this rifle scope uses XD lens elements that provide high resolution and color clarity.
Furthermore, it has a fast-focus eyepiece that aids in quick and simple reticle focusing and a precision-glide erector system that guarantees accurate tracking and repeatability. Its eye relief is good for use with heavy calibers so your brow is protected from the recoil.
This rifle scope is built to offer the highest level of durability. It has a 30mm tube crafted from aircraft-quality aluminum. The tube is also shockproof to stand up to rough field handling and has a hard-anodized finish for added durability.
Above all, the scope is 100% waterproof and fogproof which makes it ready for use even when the weather conditions are harsh and unfavorable.
If you are looking to get into long-range shooting and need an entry-level FFP scope to kick-start your career, Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 will serve you right.
Features
- XD lens elements
- First focal plane glass etched reticle
- Hard anodized finish
- Precision-glide erector system
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- 30mm tube size
Pros
- Great range
- Fine focus
- Magnification rib for easy magnification adjustment
- Generous eye relief
Cons
- No illumination
4) Leupold VX-6HD 3-18x44mm SFP Rifle Scope
The Leupold VX-6HD 3-18x44mm is a high-end scope that is built to help you take your hunting skills a notch higher. It delivers accurate and repeatable results in any hunting environment and at any distance making it one of the best scopes for 50 MBG.
This scope is made to stand up to harsh elements as well as recoil from heavy recoiling rifles. It is purged with argon to keep the lenses fog-resistant and sealed properly to prevent water, dirt and dust from entering the scope. To add to that, the scope is shockproof to handle anything you may encounter when hunting.
The scope provides remarkably clear image views even in low-light conditions. This is thanks to the Twilight Max Light Management System which offers superb low-light optical performance.
Additionally, the scope boasts a side focus parallax adjustment for quick and simple parallax focusing. It also has an ambidextrous reversible throw lever for rapid and smooth magnification adjustment.
Features
- 3-18x magnification range
- Twilight Max Light Management System
- Guard-Ion rain shedding optical coating
- 30mm main tube
- CDS-ZL2 elevation adjustment
- Side focus parallax adjustment
- Reversible throw lever
- Shockproof and recoil-resistant
Pros
- Weather-resistant
- Motion sensor technology
- Long eye relief and generous eye box
- Illuminated reticle
Cons
- Cost
5) Leupold Mark 3 HD 6-18x50mm Rifle Scope
Next on our list is the Leupold Mark 3 HD 6-18x50mm Rifle Scope. This scope is an ideal option for you if you are looking for a long-range scope for your 50 BMG. It has an adjustable magnification ranging from 6x to 18x and a large 50mm objective lens which provides crisp images through the whole zoom range.
This rifle scope is built to offer superior ruggedness. The scope features a 30mm tube crafted from high-strength aluminum. It is punisher tested to disperse recoil and verified to withstand shock and impacts. Also, it is 100% waterproof, fog-proof and guaranteed to perform for a lifetime.
Moreover, the scope has an ultra-lightweight design for easy carrying in the field. It also brings to the table multiple reticle options for added versatility and an easy-to-grip power selector that aids in quick magnification adjustments.
Features
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- Ergonomic power selector
- Elite optical system
- Scratch-resistant lenses
- 30mm tube
- Matte finish
- Versatile 6-18x magnification
Pros
- Guaranteed for life
- Multiple reticle options
- Ultralight design
Cons
- Lacks an illuminated reticle
6) Sightron SIII 6-24x50mm Long Range Rifle Scope
When shooting at long ranges, it is important to have a good quality optic like the Sightron SIII 6-24x50mm Rifle Scope. In addition to having a broad magnification range, it has a large 50mm objective lens which provides a large field of view and high-quality images throughout the zoom range.
It features the best optical glass which minimizes chromatic aberration, improves color accuracy and delivers clear and sharp images from dawn to dusk. To add to that, the scope features a Zact-7 Revcoat multi-coating process that aids in the optimum transmission of light for superb low-light performance.
When it comes to construction, this scope is constructed from a mono-piece of lightweight, industrial-grade aluminum. It is shockproof to stand up to high caliber recoil and accidental impact as well. Above all, it is charged with nitrogen gas so it is waterproof and rated to be IPX7 water-resistant.
Features
- Second focal plane reticle
- Shockproof, waterproof and fogproof
- Durable aluminum housing
- Zact-7 Revcoat multi-coated lenses
- Etched glass reticle
- 30mm tube
- Broad 6-24x magnification
Pros
- Light and portable
- Illuminated reticle
- Clear glass
- Tracks very well
Cons
- No zero stop
7) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm Rifle Scope
Next up we have the Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm Rifle Scope from Vortex. This scope is fully waterproof and fog-proof to handle harsh weather conditions and shockproof to stand up to the heavy recoil the 50 BMG produces.
With the 5-25x magnification, the scope provides the perfect combination of a large field of view for close quarters and better target acquisition at long ranges. It has a fast-focus eyepiece for simple reticle focusing and a precision-glide erector system for repeatability.
Furthermore, the scope features XD lens elements and XR fully multi-coated lenses which maximize the transmission of light for brighter, crisp and clear image views.
It also has an illuminated reticle for easy and accurate aiming in low-light settings and an Armortek coating that shields the external lens from dirt and scratches. Above all, this rifle scope is made from aircraft-grade aluminum which offers unmatched durability and strength.
Features
- 5-25x magnification
- XD lens elements
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Radius bar
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- First focal plane glass etched reticle
- XR fully multi-coated lenses
Pros
- Hard anodized finish
- RZR zero stop
- Built-in accuracy features
- Unmatched durability
Cons
- Poor lasting battery
8) Trijicon Tenmile 5-50x56mm Rifle Scope
Another best scope for 50 BMG on our list is the Trijicon Tenmile TM 5056 5-50x56mm Rifle Scope. It features a huge magnification which ranges from 5x to 50x which makes it ideal for extreme long-range applications.
This rifle scope delivers bright, sharp and clear crystal images even at the highest magnification thanks to the large 56mm objective lens and the fully multi-coated glass. The side-focus adjustment eliminates parallax from 10 yards to infinity and with the repositioning zoom ring lever, zooming in on targets becomes easy and quick.
Another outstanding feature of the scope is the durable make. It has a 34mm tube crafted from 6061-T6 aluminum. It is also purged with nitrogen so it is fully fogproof and waterproof as well. To top it all off, it has a second focal plane reticle that is illuminated for easy aiming in low-light settings.
Features
- Side focus parallax adjustment
- Second focal plane reticle
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- 34mm main tube
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Repositionable magnification lever
- Broad 5-50x magnification
Pros
- Capped windage turret
- Easy focus eyepiece
- Reticle illumination
- Generous eye relief
Cons
- Cost
9) Hawke Sports Optics Airmax 30 Side Focus 6-24x50mm Rifle Scope
The Airmax 6-24x50mm rifle scope is engineered to increase your accuracy for both intermediate and long-range shots. It employs a broad 6-24x magnification range and a large 50mm objective lens which offers a massive field of view. It also boasts fully multi-coated optics which increase your visibility in low light settings.
This reticle has a duplex-ranging reticle based on a mil-dot system. It provides several aiming points on all axes for more accurate aiming. Even better, the reticle is partially illuminated for easy aiming in low-light conditions.
Additionally, the scope has an adjustable parallax from 10 yards to infinity and low-profiled capped turrets to prevent accidental adjustments.
When it comes to construction, the scope has an ultralight yet durable aluminum alloy housing. It has a threaded objective and ocular for optimal accessories. Additionally, it is filled with nitrogen to provide waterproof and fog-proof performance.
It also comes with a 4-inch screw-on sunshade and anodized aluminum, flip-up front and rear lens cover to shield the lenses from elements of weather.
Features
- Side parallax adjustment
- Glass-etched second focal plane reticle
- 6-24x magnification range
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Fast focus collar
- 30mm single-piece main tube
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Removable 4” side wheel
Pros
- Low-profile capped turrets
- Lightweight and portable
- Partially illuminated reticle
- Large field of view
Cons
- Shorter lifespan on powerful rifles
10) Zeiss Conquest V6 5-30x50mm Rifle Scope
Last but not least, we have the Zeiss Conquest V6 5-30x50mm Rifle Scope. This scope provides state-of-the-art optical performance in a compact, lightweight and durable 30mm tube.
Featuring a highly versatile 6x zoom, this scope is perfect for intermediate to extra long-range hunting and shooting. It delivers crisp image views across the magnification range and a large field of view as well for easy target scanning.
The lenses feature Zeiss premium T 6-layer coatings that maximize light transmission for bright and crips image views. Additionally, the scope boasts a LotuTec hydrophobic coating that sheds dirt, dust, moisture and fingerprints off the lenses. It is also waterproof, fog proof and shockproof to withstand anything nature throws at it.
Features
- Second focal plane reticle
- Versatile 6x zoom
- Aircraft-grade aluminum housing
- 30mm main tube
- Fluoride glass
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
Pros
- LotuTec hydrophobic coating
- 6-layer lens coatings
- Adjustable parallax
- Excellent target acquisition across the whole zoom
Cons
- Not cheap
See Also
- Best Vortex Long-Range Riflescopes
- Best 270 Long-Range Scopes
- Rangefinder Binoculars with Ballistic Calculator
Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Scope for 50 BMG
Tube Size
Most of the rifle scopes made for the 50 BMG have a large tube size to increase the adjustment range, which is important when aiming and shooting at long distances.
At the very least, you will require a 30mm tube, which is known to work well with a wide range of rifles.
Durability
A scope for use with a 50 BMG must be durable, shockproof and recoil resistant. The last thing you would want is to invest in a low-quality scope that ends up breaking into pieces after a few hunting or shooting excursions. Ensure that you invest in a scope that is made with high-grade materials for ultimate durability.
Lens Quality
The next thing you should consider is the quality of the lenses the scope has. Go for a scope that uses extra-low dispersion glass.
With such a scope, you will get better-quality image views that are rich in color fidelity. To add, make sure that the lenses are fully multi-coated for optimum transmission of light and image brightness.
Magnification
Generally, magnification is scope is subjective and largely depends on the user. Before you buy a scope for your 50 BG, ensure that it has the magnification power that suits your preference as well as your shooting style. This will help you get the most out of your hunting or shooting excursion.
Reticle
There are so many reticle options available on the market today. For most rifles, a duplex reticle is enough for different applications.
It works well in a wide range of hunting distances and environments. On the other hand, if you primarily intend to use your rifle for long-range shooting, a scope with a mil-dot reticle is more appropriate.
Eye Relief
50 BMG is known to kick hard. Therefore, you should get a scope that has a long eye relief to keep your eyes safe from them recoiling scope.
A scope that offers a long eye relief also provides the comfort of using the scope comfortably in any shooting position. Go for a scope that offers at least 3.5 inches of eye relief.
Related Posts
- Best Scopes for 300 Weatherby Mag
- Riflescopes for 1000 Yards
- Best Long-Range AR Scopes
- Spotting Scopes for Target Shooting
- Best Rangefinder Scopes for Rifles
Best Scopes for 50 BMG FAQs
Q: Do I Need a Special Scope for the 50 BMG?
Yes. You will need a scope that is specifically rated for the 50 BMG. This way, it will be able to handle the heavy recoil this cartridge produces.
Q: What is the Effective Range of a 50 BMG?
A 50 BMG has an effective range of about 2 miles. However, this range can either increase or decrease depending on several factors such as the type of rifle used, shooting angle and the weather condition.
Q: Are 50 BMG Legal?
It depends on the state you live in. The 50 BMG is legal in most states, but not all. For instance, California has restricted the use of 50 BMGs, for which it has provided alternatives.
Conclusion
Being activity-specific and knowing what features you need to look for in a scope makes the selection process simpler. Ensure that you pick a scope that has all the essential features that you need. Also, make sure that you select a model that is user-friendly and one that suits your budget needs.