Today you will find the best riflescopes for hunting. For countless generations, hunting continues to be one outdoor activity enjoyed by many. While some hunt during their leisure time, hunting is a source of livelihood for other people. There are multiple tools used by hunters to hunt successfully.
The most vital tools are a powerful firearm paired with a hunting scope. Having the best riflescopes for hunting contributes to your hunting success as it provides you with a better focus and aiming point.
Apart from making your hunting experience better and more successful, hunting riflescopes also help you spot your target quickly in areas you could not see with the naked eye.
What Makes a Great Hunting Scope?
A hunting scope is considered great if it provides you with a good hunting experience. A great hunting scope should be lightweight, convenient to carry, and easy to mount. Its lenses should be fully multi-coated to deliver bright and clear images from dusk to dawn.
It should also have sufficient eye relief that keeps your eyes safe from heavy recoil rifles. Additionally, it should be crafted with the highest quality materials so it can last for a good number of years.
For all-weather reliability, a good hunting scope should be fully waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof. Lastly, the scope should be rugged and sturdy enough to withstand harsh hunting environments.
10 Best Riflescopes for Hunting
Since countless manufacturers make different riflescopes for hunting, it becomes challenging to choose the best scope especially if you are new in the market. To help here is a detailed review of the best riflescopes for hunting that you should add to your hunting gear. Let’s take a look.
1) CV-LIFE 3-9X40 Scope
CV-LIFE 3-9X40 Scope takes pride in its functionality and reliability thanks to the high-quality features it is equipped with. Suitable for a wide range of hunting activities, this scope performs in any hunting condition or environment.
It includes a special inner and outer structure that controls the interaction between the inner and outer scope tubes. This provides long-lasting reliability and ensures that the reticle doesn’t rotate/move when adjustments are being made.
The fully multi-coated lenses produce bright and crystal-clear images from dusk to dawn, an important feature for many hunters who prefer to hunt at that time of the day. The adjustable 3-9x magnification is ideal for hunting at varying ranges and with the generous eye relief, your eyes stay protected from heavy recoil rifles.
Built on a sturdy 1” machined aluminum tube, this riflescope is extremely durable and sturdy enough to withstand the harshest hunting environment. Furthermore, this tube is completely sealed and nitrogen-filled to deliver reliable fog-proof and rainproof proof. You can therefore use this scope under any weather condition.
Key Features
- Lightweight and portable.
- Rainproof and fogproof.
- Fully multi-coated lenses.
- User-friendly 3-9x power ring.
- Precise elevation and windage adjustment.
- Mounts easily on any 20mm Picatinny mount.
- Variable 3-9x magnification.
- Generous eye relief.
- Sturdy and durable aluminum construction.
- Ultra-hard scratch-resistant lens coating.
- Superb low-light performance.
2) Nikon Prostaff 3-9×40 Black Matte Riflescope
Nikon Prostaff 3-9×40 is an all-around hunting scope that works well for a wide range of hunting pursuits. Made of high-strength aluminum, this optic has been texted and proven to be extremely sturdy and durable.
The black matte finish helps camouflage the hunter’s shooting position, while fully multi-coated lenses produce bright and clear image views from dusk to dawn. The generous 3.6-inch eye relief boosts the shooter’s confidence by keeping their eyes safe from heavy recoil rifles and also provides comfortable views of the target.
Additionally, a quick-focus eyepiece enhances rapid reticle focusing for quick target acquisition while the optional sunshade accessory helps minimize broad daylight glare. For all-weather reliability, this optic is nitrogen-filled and O-ring sealed to deliver reliable waterproof, shockproof and fog-proof performance.
You can easily reset to zero after aiming using the spring-loaded adjustment knobs included. The unique lightweight design of this scope makes it packable, portable, and convenient for hunting.
Key Features
- Fully multi-coated optical system.
- Spring-loaded adjustment knobs.
- BDC reticle.
- Black matte finishes that camouflage the shooter’s position.
- Optional sunshade accessory.
- Wide field of view.
- Generous 3.6” reticle.
- Fast focus eyepiece.
- Fully waterproof and fogproof.
- Lightweight, compact and convenient for hunting.
- Versatile 3-9x magnification power.
3) Vortex Optics Viper HS SFP Riflescopes
Hunting is made easier with the Vortex Optics Viper HS SFP Riflescope. This scope has everything a hunter will need to take down targets at varying ranges. Typical of any Vortex scope, the optical quality of the Viper HS is remarkable. The lenses are fully multi-coated to provide bright and clear sight pictures under any lighting condition.
The turrets are also great. They are easily adjustable, lock solidly, and are durably made to withstand the test of time. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle is good for hunting at varying distances while the fast-focus eyepiece aids in quick reticle focusing.
Made to last as long as your hunting rifle, this optic is crafted from high-strength aluminum materials that enhance its strength and durability. An ultra-hard Armortek coating protects the lens from scratches, dirt, and oil.
Furthermore, the hard-anodized black matte finish enhances the scope’s overall durability while also camouflaging the hunter’s shooting position. It is also lightweight, so no need to worry about it adding unnecessary weight to your hunting firearm.
Key Features
- Lightweight, packable and portable.
- All-round workhouse riflescope.
- Unlimited eye relief.
- Fast focus eyepiece.
- Dead-Hold BDC MOA reticle.
- XR, fully multicoated lenses.
- Capped reset turrets.
- Advanced, high-quality optical system.
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Ultra-hard, scratchproof Armortek lens coating.
- Hard anodized black matte finish.
- Extremely sturdy and durable aluminum construction.
4) Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope with Truplex Reticle
Simmons packs a multitude of high-quality features into this scope at a reasonably affordable cost. With a variable 3-9x magnification, this scope is ideal for hunting at varying ranges.
The turrets are easy to dial and zero-reset without the need to use any tools. What makes this optic stand out among other similar products is the TrueZero windage and elevation adjustment system which excels in holding zero even in the most strenuous hunting environment.
The lenses are fully multi-coated for bright and crystal-clear image views across all lighting conditions. Furthermore, this optic has a quick target acquisition eyepiece for easy reticle focusing and 1/4 MOA audible click windage and elevation adjustment.
Weighing just 0.63 pounds, this optic is extremely lightweight yet durable and rugged enough to withstand the harshest hunting environments. It also features a black matte finish which reduces glare and camouflages the hunter’s shooting position.
Key Features
- Variable and versatile 3-9x zoom range.
- Fully waterproof, fog proof and recoil proof.
- TrueZero technology holds zero well.
- Sharp and high-contrast images.
- Truplex reticle.
- Quick target acquisition eyepiece.
- Lightweight and easy to use.
- ¼ MOA audible and sure grip windage and elevation adjustments.
- Generous eye relief.
- Fully multi-coated lenses.
- Cost-effective.
5) Vortex Optics Diamondback SFP Riflescope
Vortex is well known to make premium riflescopes and the Diamondback SFP Riflescope is no exemption. As one of the best riflescopes for hunting, Diamond SFP riflescopes are good for different hunting activities. Coupling a versatile 1.75-5x zoom range and a large 32mm objective lens, these scopes will be ideal for handling various hunting applications.
Lens coating provides bright and clear images from even at low lighting conditions such as dusk or dawn while the solid aircraft-grade aluminum construction makes the scope durable and recoil-resistant. The outstanding light transmission makes the scope stand out among other best riflescopes for hunting.
Additionally, argon purging makes the scope fully waterproof and fogproof, so you can continue hunting even when it starts to rain. The fast-focus eyepiece enables rapid and easy reticle focusing while the metal-on-metal precision turrets allow you to make all the changes needed without messing up. The scope also offers decent eye relief which boosts the shooter’s confidence.
Key Features
- Fully waterproof and fogproof.
- High-quality budget scope
- The precision glide erector system ensures error-free tracking and repeatability.
- Superb 3-9x zoom range.
- Decent eye relief.
- Solid one-piece tube with a hard-anodized finish.
- Fast focus eye eyepiece.
- Fully multi-coated optical system.
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle.
- Lightweight yet durable.
- Hard-wearing and sturdy construction.
6) Leupold Vx-3i 3.5-10x40mm Rifle Scope
Leupold Vx-3i 3.5-10x40mm Rifle Scope features a variety of premium features suitable for all hunting conditions. This marvel ranks highly among the best riflescopes for hunting. Designed and assembled in the USA, this riflescope makes for a bright and clear optic that will last you for years.
Ideal for both short- and long-range shooting, this optic features finger-adjustable, tactile turrets that enable simple and accurate sight-in and field adjustments as well as a fast-focus eyepiece for rapid reticle focusing.
The versatile 3:1 zoom range works perfectly in almost any hunting environment while the 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum construction ensures that the scope is extremely durable and rugged enough to withstand the harshest hunting environments.
Furthermore, it is O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged to deliver reliable waterproof and fog-proof performance and has its lenses fully multi-coated to provide bright and clear images from dusk to dawn. Look no further for the best riflescopes for hunting than the Leupold Vx-3i scopes.
The coating on the lenses provides the highest level of abrasion resistance and sheds off dirt, oil, and fingerprints. Apart from being shockproof, this riflescope is also good at shrugging recoil, so you can use it on rifles with heavy recoil.
Key Features
- Fully waterproof, fogproof and shockproof.
- Rugged and durable construction.
- Twilight Max Light Management system.
- Diamond Coat 2 ion assist lens coating.
- Unparalleled low light performance.
- Extremely versatile 3:1 zoom ratio.
- Duplex reticle.
- Anodizing matte finish.
- Lightweight and convenient for hunting.
- Precision ¼ MOA windage and elevation adjustments.
- Unlimited eye relief.
7) Athlon Optics Argos BTR Riflescope
If you are in the market for a cheap yet quality hunting riflescope, go for the Athlon Optics Argos BTR Riflescope. This budget scope has a history of being accurate and reliable. Ideal for beginners and professionals alike, this scope has a versatile 4x zoom range suitable for multiple shooting conditions.
The lenses are fully multicoated to deliver bright and crisp clear images in all lighting conditions and they also feature an Exclusive XPL coating that sheds off dirt, oil while offering protection against weather elements. The 30mm tube is argon purged to deliver reliable weatherproof properties and enhance thermal stability.
The FFP reticle doesn’t change with a change in magnification and it is glass-etched to enhance durability and offer better recoil resistance. Crafted from 6061-T6 aircraft grade aluminum, this riflescope is exemplary sturdy, durable and lightweight as well.
Athlon Optics has a reputation for manufacturing outstanding optics with unmatched features and performance. ARGOS BTR Riflescope is no exception, it is packed with facets only found in high-end scopes making it one of the best riflescopes for hunting. The scope is designed to handle several shooting disciplines with utmost precision.
Key Features
- Waterproof, fogproof, and thermal stability.
- Hassle-free adjustments.
- Easy to use and easy to mount.
- Lightweight and convenient for hunting.
- Exclusive XPR coating that sheds off dirt, oil, and grease.
- Glass etched reticle.
- Aircraft-grade aluminum construction.
- Advanced, fully multi-coated lenses.
- First focal plane illuminated reticle.
- Decent eye relief.
8) Vortex Optics Crossfire II SFP Riflescope
The 2-7×32 Crossfire II riflescope is another quality Vortex scope ideal for hunting. This scope mounts easily on multiple rifles to provide the best hunting experience. Ideal for beginners are professionals alike, this optic is easy to use and fits the needs of different hunters in all types of terrain and weather conditions.
The anti-reflective, fully multi-coated lenses enhance light transmission to provide bright and clear views from dusk to dawn while the fog-proof and waterproof construction ensures that you can hunt under any weather conditions.
Moreover, this riflescope has a single-piece tube crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum which ensures superb durability, strength, and shockproof performance. The long eye relief keeps you safe from heavy recoil rifles while the ultra-forging eye box enables you to quickly get a sight picture and capture the target.
The riflescope also features finger-adjustable capped reset turrets with MOA clicks that can be easily reset to zero after sighting in. The whole unit is lightweight and very convenient for hunting.
Versatility, durability, reliability, and unrivaled performance are just some of the attributes that cement Crossfire II SFP riflescopes’ name among the best riflescopes for hunting.
Key Features
- Aircraft-grade aluminum construction.
- Lightweight and portable.
- Improved, resettable MOA turrets.
- Fully waterproof and fogproof.
- Fast focus eyepiece.
- Dead-hold BDC reticle.
- Anti-reflective, fully multi-coated lenses.
- Fully multi-coated lenses.
- 1” piece tube for scope integrity and adjustment precision.
- Long eye relief and ultra-forgiving eye box.
9) Hawke Vantage 3-9×50 AO Riflescope
The stunning Hawke Vantage 3-9×50 AO Riflescope provides maximum visibility and outstanding clarity great for hunting. It’s not only easy to use but also ideal for multiple hunting activities. This riflescope features excellent built quality for superior strength and stability.
The image clarity stays consistent throughout the entire zoom range while the 11 layers of fully multi-coated lenses deliver excellent image clarity and brightness from dusk to dawn. As one of the best riflescopes for hunting, you are assured of error-free target acquisition in all lighting conditions.
What’s more, is that this riflescope is fully waterproof and fogproof, so you can use it in any environment and not worry about it getting damaged. The adjustable 3-9x magnification is great for both short and medium-range hunting and the adjustable objective allows for parallax elimination from 10 yards to infinity.
Key Features
- Performs well in different environments.
- 11-layer fully multi-coated lenses.
- Adjustable objective for parallax elimination.
- Extremely durable and sturdy.
- Long and consistent eye relief
- 1/4 MOA low profile no-snag fingertip turrets.
- Threaded objective for optimal accessories.
- Highly accurate mil-dot reticle.
- Lightweight and portable.
- Aircraft-grade aluminum 1” single-piece tube design.
- Waterproof, fogproof and shockproof.
10) Bushnell Banner 3-9×40 Riflescope
This list of the best riflescopes for hunting isn’t complete without mentioning the Bushnell 3-9×40 Riflescope. If you prefer to hunt at dawn or dusk, bringing the Bushnell 3-9×40 Riflescope with you will change the way you hunt for good.
This riflescope features a side focus adjustable parallax that eliminates parallax from 10 yards to infinity and a throw-down power change lever that allows you to customize the scope according to the rifle you are using.
The lenses are fully multicoated to provide bright and clear target views while the exposed target turrets help you dial for windage and elevation adjustment quickly. Suitable for shooting at varying ranges, this scope also features a BDC reticle for easy-hold overshooting at 600 yards.
Weighing just 19 oz, this riflescope is lightweight and convenient for hunting. It is also waterproof, fogproof and shockproof to ensure reliable performance in different hunting environments.
Key Features
- Generous eye relief.
- Fast focus diopter.
- Side focus adjustable parallax.
- Waterproof and fogproof.
- Throwdown PCR Lever.
- Fully multi-coated lenses.
- Tough aircraft-grade aluminum construction.
- Mil-based elevation and windage target turrets.
- Lightweight and easy to carry around.
Related Posts
- Best Riflescopes for Deer Hunting
- Best Western Hunting Scopes
- Best Vortex Scopes for Elk Hunting
- Best Crossbow Scopes for Hunting
Best Riflescopes for Hunting Buying Guide & FAQs
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Riflescopes for Hunting
Eye Relief
Eye relief refers to the distance between your eye and the scope’s objective lens. The amount of eye relief that your scope has directly affected how comfortable you’ll be shooting.
Scopes with long eye relief boost the shooter’s confidence and also protect their eyes from heavy recoil rifles. The best scope for hunting should have a generous eye relief of at least 3.5 inches.
Magnification
A scope with the best magnification gives you clear sight and also helps you take the shot accurately. Where you intend to hunt, the range and type of target will determine the ideal magnification.
For close-range shooting during the day, a 3-9×40 scope will do. On the other hand, hunting in country settings that are difficult to get a shot easily under 100-200 yards, a 6-18×50 hunting scope will do.
Read: Best Scopes for Hog Hunting
Durability
You’ll need a hard-wearing and reliable hunting scope capable of withstanding all impacts that come with hunting. The material used directly affects how long the scope is going to last.
Scopes made of high-quality materials such as aircraft-grade aluminum are extremely durable and sturdy enough to withstand the harshest hunting environment.
The scope should also be fully waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-resistant to ensure reliable performance in all weather conditions.
Glass and Lens
Pay attention to the quality of glass, the size of the objective lens, and the lens coating. Scopes with good lens coating prevent light reflection and also enhance better light transmission which helps with brightness and clarity.
Scopes with high-quality glass usually have amazing optical clarity for higher accuracy, but they tend to be more expensive. The size of the objective lens also matters as it directly affects the amount of light transmitted.
If you prefer to hunt at dawn or dusk, you will need a scope with a big-sized objective lens to gather more light into the lens. Scopes with at least 40mm objective lens diameter will do.
Read: Best Scopes for Varmint Hunting
Weight and Size
It is also important to pay attention to the size and weight of the scope. Weight increases with an increase in the size of the lenses as well as an increase in the number of accessories.
Fatigue issues may arise if the hunter is going to carry the rifle plus the optic for long distances over an extended period. Look for an optic that’s lightweight, compact, and comfortable to carry around even for an extended period.
In terms of size, ensure that the scope you decide to buy is long enough to accommodate the optic and all the necessary hunting accessories.
Read: Best Scopes for High Recoil Rifles
Best Riflescopes for Hunting FAQs
Q: What Magnification Will I Need?
Different targets based on size and distance require different magnifications. For close-range shooting during the day, a 3-9×40 scope will do. On the other hand, hunting in country settings that are difficult to get a shot easily under 100-200 yards, a 6-18×50 hunting scope will do.
Q: What’s The Ideal Range for a 3-9×40 Scope?
3-9×40 scopes are ideal for close to medium-range shooting. The maximum distance you can see clearly with such a scope about 200 yards. Any distance more than that, the image will be less clear.
Q: What Do Numbers on the Riflescope Mean?
In a 3-9×40 scope, the 3-9x shows that the image you see through the scope can be zoomed in and appear to close up to 9times than you see with your naked eyes. On the other hand, 40 is the objective lens diameter in millimeters.
Conclusion
Hunting needs differ from one hunter to the other. That’s why there are numerous hunting scopes available on the market to choose from. Take time and understand what your hunting needs are then find a scope that meets those needs. All scopes listed above are quality-made and ideal for multiple hunting activities. Invest in one and your hunting experience will never be the same.