Looking to buy your first riflescope? You have come to the right place. We will help you find a good fit for your hunting/shooting needs.
A good riflescope magnifies far-away targets and helps provide the shooter with bright and clear image views regardless of how the target is. The best riflescopes for beginners should be easy to use and cost-effective.
It should have a simple and lightweight design, so the user can have an easy time using it. Thankfully, there are plenty of riflescopes with high-quality features at a reasonably affordable price to suit the needs of most beginners. These scopes can be used for recreational purposes, hunting, and tactical shooting.
Things to Know Before Buying a Rifle Scope
Whenever you are shooting long-range, image clarity reduces no matter how good your eyes are. This calls for the need to use a rifle scope which improves the image clarity of the target regardless of how far it is. Before you head out to buy any rifle scope, here are some of the basic things you should be aware of about riflescopes.
What is a Riflescope? A riflescope is an optic that provides magnification so you can see far-away targets closely and accurately. Each riflescope has a form of graphic image pattern known as a reticle. Whenever you are using a scope, the reticle provides you with an accurate aiming point.
What’s The Purpose? Before you buy a rifle scope, you must know what activity you intend to use it for. Riflescopes are designed differently to meet the needs of different shooters in different shooting activities. Scopes are mainly used for hunting, competition shooting, home defense, and target shooting.
Fixed vs Variable Scopes. After you have found a purpose for your scope, you will have to choose between a fixed and variable scope. A variable scope allows you to change magnification for different shooting conditions. For instance, a 3-9x32scope means that you can magnify the target from 3x up to 9x.
Variable scopes are best suited for shooting at different distances. If a scope’s magnification is 4x, it means that it is a fixed scope. It only works at one magnification power which is 4x.
Fixed scopes are easy to use, offer clear image views, and are reasonably affordable. For starters, these scopes will be handy in developing hunting/tactical shooting skills.
10 Best Riflescopes for Beginners
Here are some of the best riflescopes for beginners:
1) CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e Red & Green Illuminated Scope
This CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e Red & Green Illuminated Scope is easy on the wallet as it’s easy to use and mount. Made for all shooters, beginners, and professionals, this tactical rifle scope is a great addition that will help you aim and shoot accurately.
As one of the best riflescopes for beginners, this optic combines laser and scope to ensure error-free shooting to help boost your confidence from an early stage. Starting your hunting and shooting adventures with this illuminated scope will surely yield phenomenal results.
Made of high-strength aircraft-grade aluminum, this optic is extremely sturdy and durable. The lenses are fully multi-coated to enhance light transmission while the special 2 in 1 design on the scope and laser built together ensures precise shooting.
The versatile 2.5-10x zoom range is ideal for both short- and long-range shooting while the BDC reticle enables quick reticle adjustment for shooting targets at specific ranges. This scope also has 5 red and green illumination intensities for shooting at different lighting conditions and you can easily mount it on any rifle using the 20mm scope mounts included.
Key Features
- Sturdy and durable construction.
- Fully multi-coated lenses.
- Large field of view.
- Fits all standard 20-22 weaver and Picatinny rails.
- Improved side-mounted adjustable laser.
- Special 2 in 1 scope and laser design.
- Precise windage and elevation adjustment.
- BDC reticle.
- Red and green illumination modes.
- High-strength aircraft-grade aluminum construction.
- Lightweight and portable
2) Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 SFP Riflescope
This Vortex riflescope comes equipped with an array of high-quality features at a remarkably affordable price. The intuitive and user-friendly interface of this riflescope makes it one of the best riflescopes for beginners.
It has a long eye relief that boosts the shooter’s confidence and a fast-focus eyepiece for easy reticle focusing. Constructed from high-strength aircraft-grade aluminum, this optic is extremely durable and shockproof.
Furthermore, its lenses are fully multi-coated to deliver bright and clear images views regardless of the lighting condition. The capped reset turrets are finger adjustable with MOA clicks that can be easily reset to zero after sighting in.
The scope is also lightweight and is O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged to deliver waterproof and fog-proof performance. The scope in general and the adjustments are very easy to use.
Key Features
- Generous and consistent eye relief.
- Dead-hold BDC reticle.
- Aircraft-grade aluminum construction.
- Anti-reflective, fully multi-coated lenses.
- Lightweight and portable.
- Improved, resettable MOA turrets.
- 100% waterproof and fogproof.
- Fast focus eyepiece.
- Fully multi-coated lenses.
- 1” piece tube for scope integrity and adjustment precision.
- Ultra-forgiving eye box.
3) Simmons 3-9x32mm .22 Riflescope
Simmons 3-9x32mm .22 Riflescope is one of the best riflescopes for beginners who want a low-budget scope but with competitive features and advantages. This scope features a versatile 3-9x magnification suitable for both close and mid-range shooting as well as a generous eye relief that remains constant throughout the entire magnification range.
Integration of innovative features such as the QTA eyepiece makes the Simmons Rimfire scope shine among the best riflescopes for beginners. The quick target acquisition eyepiece facilitates swift and meticulous detection of the targets.
Simmons .22 Simmons MAG delivers unparalleled performance, durability, and reliability. Without a doubt, the scope is in a class all its own. Built to last as long as your rifle, this riflescope is crafted from high-quality materials that enhance strength and durability.
A quick target eyepiece ensures easy reticle focusing while the Sure-Grip rubber surfaces enhance durability and simplifies adjustments in all weather conditions.
Moreover, this optic delivers stunning image brightness and clarity thanks to the high-quality optical glass that’s fully coated to enhance light transmission. The lens also features a Hydro-Shield coating that keeps the views clear regardless of the weather conditions. The entire unit weighs about 9.6 ounces, making it easy to mount and great for backpacking or travel.
Key Features
- Fully coated lenses.
- 100% waterproof, fog-proof, and recoil-proof.
- Quick target acquisition eyepiece.
- Generous and consistent eye relief.
- Versatile 3:1 zoom range.
- Lightweight yet tough and sturdy.
- Truplex reticle.
- SureGrip rubber surface for easy adjustment.
- HydroShield lens coating.
- Parallax correction from 50 yards to infinity.
4) Pinty 2.5-10×40 Tactical Rifle Scope
One of the best things about this tactical rifle scope is that it has a red or green reticle that provides a remarkable sight range for sharpshooting. What makes it stand out among other similar products is the Kellner eyepiece with a dioptric adjustment lens which eliminates any image aberration.
The 5 brightness levels allow better adaptability to diverse lighting environments while the multi-coated green objective delivers bright and crystal-clear images views from dusk to dawn. Toughly made with aluminum alloy, this optic is highly durable and sturdy as well.
It is designed to fit on most rifles with Picatinny or Weaver rails and is easy to mount as well. Lastly, its nitrogen-filled and O-ring sealed to deliver waterproof and fog-proof performance.
The red and green reticles offer remarkable sight range for sharpshooting further cementing the scope’s solid reputation for being one of the best riflescopes for beginners.
Key Features
- 100% waterproof and fogproof.
- Quick and secure attachment on all Picatinny and Weaver rails.
- Fully multi-coated lenses.
- Red and green illuminated reticle.
- Precise windage and elevation adjustment.
- 5 brightness levels in both green and red.
- Kellner eyepiece with a dioptric adjustment lens.
- Durable aluminum alloy construction.
- Versatile 2.5x-10x magnification.
- Long eye relief.
- Lightweight and great for backpacking.
5) UTG 3-12×44 30mm Compact Scope
Built on a true-strength platform, this compact scope from UTG is extremely durable and sturdy. It features best-in-class multi emerald coated lenses which deliver bright and clear images from dusk to dawn.
The best-in-class optical system, true-strength platform, and variable power for a wide range of applications make this UTG scope a top contender for the best riflescopes for beginners.
The generous 3”-3.4” eye relief keeps the shooter’s eyes safe from heavy recoil rifles while the special circuit design ensures uninterrupted illumination even under the harshest recoil.
The target turrets are well-designed and made to allow for simple and accurate windage and elevation adjustments. A side wheel adjustable turret allows easy parallax correction from 10 yards to infinity.
For all-weather reliability, the scope is sealed and nitrogen-filled to deliver fogproof, shockproof, and rainproof performance. The whole unit weighs about 1.45 pounds which makes it great for backpacking and travel.
Key Features
- Easily fixed using 30mm Picatinny rings.
- Emerald lens coating.
- Highly innovative, low-profile illumination control.
- Precise 1/4MOA windage and elevation adjustment knobs.
- Built-in sunshade.
- Generous eye relief.
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof.
- Special housing design withstands the heaviest recoil.
- Lightweight, sturdy and durable.
- Remarkable low-light performance.
6) Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Riflescope
This high-performance optic provides the most reliable and affordable optic performance. It features a user-friendly interface that’s easy to operate for all shooters, beginners, and professionals.
Combining a cutting-edge design and fully multi-coated lenses, this riflescope delivers outstanding image brightness and clarity regardless of the shooting conditions. It mounts easily on any rifle, so you can start hunting down targets without wasting so much time.
Moreover, this optic features a waterproof construction that prevents fogging and ensures clear image views in all weather conditions. The 1-piece main tube construction enhances strength and durability while the fast-focus eyepiece ensures quick reticle focusing.
This optic also features generous eye relief and 1/4 MOA fingertip windage and elevation adjustment knobs that are capped to protect them from bumps and hard impacts.
Extensive testing and the numerous praises from outdoor enthusiasts should instill confidence that as one of the best riflescopes for beginners, you are bound to enjoy every outdoor pursuit with this riflescope.
Key Features
- 1/4 MOA fingertip windage and elevation adjustment.
- Waterproof and fogproof construction.
- Fully multicoated lenses.
- Fast focus eyepiece.
- High-quality optical system with stunning HD clarity.
- Tough and rugged construction.
- Generous eye relief.
- Intuitive and easy to use.
- Multi-X reticle for rapid and easy target acquisition.
- 1 piece tube construction.
7) Monstrum 3-9×32 Rifle Scope
If you are in the market for high-performance, close to the mid-range tactical scope, the Monstrum 3-9×32 Rifle Scope is your ideal choice. Crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum, this scope is extremely durable yet lightweight. Surely one of the best riflescopes for beginners in the market.
It only weighs 12 ounces, so it’s easy to use and easy to move around with. You can easily mount it on any rifle with Picatinny or Weaver rails and enjoy shooting close to mid ranges. This tactical scope comes equipped with a red/green illuminated reticle suitable for different lighting conditions.
Additionally, the lenses feature multi-layer lens coating that protects the lenses from scratches and dirt, while improving image brightness and clarity from dusk to dawn.
A detachable throw level aids in rapid magnification adjustment, while the unlimited eye relief keeps the shooter’s eye-safe from heavy recoil rifles. The 1-inch main tube is nitrogen-filled to deliver reliable waterproof and fog-proof performance. It offers great value for money and is worth investing in.
Key Features
- Excellent image clarity.
- Works well in all lighting conditions.
- Waterproof and fogproof.
- Generous eye relief.
- Glass etched rangefinder illuminated reticle.
- Suitable for beginners and professionals alike.
- Standard profile scope rings for optimum scope placement.
- Multiple brightness intensities.
- Multi-layer lens coating.
- Integrated sunshade helps minimize glare.
- Removable throw lever for quick magnification adjustment.
8) MidTen Riflescope Combo 4-12x50EG
Here is another quality riflescope suitable for shooting skills development. Featuring top-quality optical glass, this scope provides sharp, clear, and bright images under different lighting conditions.
The multi-coated lenses offer superb light transmission, while the 50mm objective lens gathers more than optimum light inside. The versatile 4-12x zoom range is suited for wide-range shooting both close and long-range. This optic mounts easily on any rifle with 22mm Picatinny rails.
The four-pattern red/green illuminated reticles work well in different lighting conditions while the holographic dot sight and laser sight ensure the rapid acquisition of fast-moving targets.
The eye relief of this scope is unlimited boosting the confidence of many shooters. Hunting aficionados shower this scope with praises hence being one of the best riflescopes for beginners.
Key Features
- Unlimited eye relief.
- High-grade fully multi-coated lenses.
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof.
- Easily mounted on any 20mm Picatinny/weaver rail.
- Lightweight and easy to use.
- Red laser sight included.
- 5 levels red/green illuminations.
- High-quality matte black finish.
- Four patterns illuminated the reticle.
- Holographic dot sight.
9) OTW Rifle Scope 3-9×56 Optical Scope
Stylish and sleek, OTW Rifle Scope is easy to use and ideal for beginners and pros alike. You can expect it to deliver exceptional image clarity and brightness under any lighting or weather conditions.
Made to be used during the day and at night as well, this optical scope features 5 different illumination intensities for adverse lighting use. A fast-focus eyepiece ensures rapid target acquisition while the high-quality optical system provides very clear image views.
Made of high-strength aluminum material, this optic is durable and sturdy enough to withstand the harshest shooting environments. For all-weather reliability, this unit is fully waterproof and fogproof. You can easily mount it on 20mm weaver rail scope mounts for a convenient shooting position especially when hunting.
Key Features
- Lightweight and easy to use.
- Fast focus eyepiece.
- Fully waterproof and fogproof.
- Mounts easily on 20mm weaver rail scope mounts.
- Black anodized finish.
- High-strength aluminum construction.
- Versatile 3-9x magnification.
- 5 different illumination intensities.
- Adjustable eyepiece.
10) Hiram 4-16×50 AO Rifle Scope
Last but not least is the Hiram 4-16×50 AO rifle scope. This 4-in-1 combo includes a rangefinder riflescope, 1 holographic reflex sight, a green laser pointer, and a 200-lumen tactical flashlight. All these four units work together to provide the best shooting experience in different lighting and environmental conditions.
Made from aluminum alloy materials, the riflescope is tough and very durable. The versatile 4-16x magnification works great for both close- and long-range targets. You get to easily eliminate parallax from 15 yards to infinity using the adjustable objective.
The multiple reticles on this rangefinder scope are illuminated with 5 brightness settings to accommodate different lighting conditions. This riflescope attaches easily on any 22mm Picatinny/Weaver rails and includes rings for simple installation and removal. You can also use it in any weather condition since it’s fully waterproof and fog proof.
Key Features
- Superb 4-in-1 combo that includes a rangefinder riflescope, holographic reflex sight, green laser pointer, and 200-lumen tactical flashlight
- Versatile 4-16 magnification range.
- Adjustable objective eliminates parallax from 15 yards to infinity.
- Fully waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof.
- Attaches easily on any 22mm Picatinny/Weaver rails.
- 5 different brightness settings.
- Multiple reticle patterns.
- Aluminum alloy construction.
- Precise windage and elevation knobs.
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Best Riflescopes for Beginners Buying Guide & FAQs
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Beginner Scope
Cost
How much you intend to spend will dictate the type of scope that you are going to buy. Most beginner scopes are reasonably affordable to suit a wide range of shooters.
While how much you are willing to spend trickles down to personal preference, buying an expensive scope doesn’t always guarantee better performance in the field. Just make sure that the scope you want to buy comes with the features that you want.
Range
How far you intend to shoot determines what scope to buy. If you are into mid-range shooting, go for a scope that’s compatible with mid-range shooting. Most of the riflescopes for beginners have smaller magnification power suitable for close to mid-range shooting.
Precision Power
You must choose a scope that provides optimum precision regardless of the shooting range or shooting activity that you are engaged in. This is an important feature for beginners as it complements your accuracy skills while also enhancing your overall locking target efficiency. The precision power of any rifle scope is the combination of magnification and lens clarity.
Durable Construction
The material used in making any scope determines how long it will last. Choose a scope that’s made of high-quality materials such as aluminum alloy or aircraft-grade aluminum. Such a scope assures you of many years of use. It will also provide reliable performance until you become a professional.
Compatibility
Where do you intend to mount your scope? Always make sure that the scope you intend to buy is compatible with the rifle you intend to use it with. The firearm and the scope must work as one when it comes to locking in the target accurately. Additionally, the scope you get should be sturdy enough to withstand the recoil from your firearm.
Lens Coating
Whichever scope you decide to go for must have its lenses multi-coated at the very least. Fully multi-coated lenses enhance light transmission to produce bright and clear image views.
Most coated lenses also come with anti-glare features so regardless of the light condition or intensity, the shooter gets to retain a consistent view of their target. You should also consider the brightness setting that the scope has to offer.
Eye Relief
Don’t forget to look at the amount of eye relief the scope you want to buy provides. A scope with decent eye relief not only provides a clear and comfortable image view but also helps prevent injury to your eyes.
Scopes with long eye relief are safe to use especially with heavy recoil rifles, but they tend to be slightly difficult to have a full field of view. The average eye relief that each scope should have is at least 3 inches.
Read: Best Hunting Binoculars
How to Mount a Scope
Now that you have already bought the scope, here is a simple procedure on how you should mount it.
- Prep the rifle and scope by cleaning all dirt and grease. Set the base on the receiver and then tighten the screws down as tight as possible.
- Install the bottom halves of your rings as per the instructions given.
- Set the riflescope onto the rings by placing it onto the bottom half of the rings. Attach the scope rings top half, then adjust the eye relief to the most comfortable position before you fully tighten the screws.
- Position the scope accordingly and adjust it to perfection by ensuring that the scope’s crosshairs are perfectly and truly vertical.
- Tighten all the rings to secure the scope. Make sure that the ring screws are tight and snug enough to lock the scope securely, however, they shouldn’t be cranked down so tightly like the screws that hold the base to the receiver.
Read: Best Riflescopes for Deer Hunting
Best Riflescopes for Beginners FAQs
Q: Which is Better, a Fixed or Variable Zoom Riflescope?
None. Your shooting style and the shooting activity you are engaged in play a significant role in the scope you are going to choose. variable scopes are ideal for shooting at varying ranges while fixed zoom scope is easy to use, offers clear image views, and is reasonably affordable.
Q: What are Windage and Elevation Adjustments?
Windage adjustment knobs let you shift the aiming point of your scope on the horizontal plane or in other words from right to left, while elevation adjustments allow you to move the same aiming point vertically along the plane, that’s from top to bottom.
Q: What Range is a 3-9×40 Scope Good for?
3-9×40 scopes are ideal for close to medium-range shooting which is about 200 yards at most. A target that’s 200 yards away will seem like it’s only 20-25 yards away when you zoom it in at the 9x magnification.
Conclusion
The best thing about riflescopes for beginners is that they are easy to use and ideal for professionals as well. You don’t have to break the bank to buy your first rifle, but you can instead opt for a cheap but quality riflescope.
All of the scopes listed above are brilliantly made to last for long and equipped with easy-to-use features that help many beginners develop their shooting skills. Buy any one of them and start your shooting journey today.