Today you will find the best scopes for 223. Varmint eradication can be challenging, but the .223 has shown to be an effective weapon in this respect.
The .223 is a widely used caliber that is known for its versatility. The caliber boasts power and accuracy that promises to take your hunting to a whole new level.
Adding a scope to the caliber unleashes its potential and changes your experience for the better. However, there are many scopes, making it hard to know exactly which is best for the caliber. The confusion and worry will end here.
What Makes a Great .223 Scope?
In a world full of optics, finding the perfect scope for the job isn’t an easy ordeal. Nevertheless, with the right information, you will find great scope for your .223 rifle effortlessly.
One attribute that distinguishes great scopes for 223 from ordinary optics is high-quality lenses. Besides optimum light collection, the scope has less glare and reflection for an outstanding sighting experience in the field.
The other key attribute of the best scopes for 223 is adequate eye relief. When shooting, you want your eyes at a safer distance to prevent getting scoped when the rifle recoils. Eye relief goes hand in hand with the field of view. Scopes with a wider field of view are excellent for .223 rifles, especially when focusing on far targets.
Another important aspect to consider is durability. After many rounds of firing with your rifle, the scope takes a beating. However, a scope with quality construction can put up with the abuse and deliver reliable performance for many years. Be sure to select a rifle scope that is waterproof, fogproof and shockproof.
The .223 rifle performs well across varying distances. For an all-around scope, variable power is a must. Fixed power isn’t advisable for the .223 as it limits the distance you can shoot from.
8 Best Scopes for 223 Bolt Action Rifle
We have a comprehensive review that will provide insight into the best varmint scopes for 223 and also cover the essential considerations to have in mind. Let’s dive in.
1) Rudolph Optics Varmint V1 2.5-15x50mm Rifle Scope
Rudolph Varmint V1 2.5-15x50mm Riflescope is what you need for taking down varmints at close to extended ranges. It packs high-performing features geared to enhance your hunting experience. The 2.5-15X provides a versatile magnification range for most hunting applications.
As one of the best varmint scopes for 223, V1 2.5-15×50 has an illuminated reticle that allows for speedy target acquisition even in poorly lit settings. There are six illumination settings, so you select the one that suits you best.
Another feature that makes it perfect for low-light conditions is the superior optics that guarantee optimal light transmission so that your dusk or dawn hunting is successful. The lenses are fully multi-coated to collect optimal light for clear and bright images.
The other notable feature is the flip-up caps that protect the lens from dust, dirt, and other elements. When it comes to construction, the scope is well-made and can withstand harsh weather conditions because it is waterproof and fogproof. This is in addition to being shockproof. A coil spring system secures the impact point against the heavy recoil.
Features
- 30mm tube
- 50mm objective lens
- Tactical pop-up turrets
- Lenses are fully multi-coated
- Completely waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- T3 illuminated reticle with six illuminated settings
- Side focus parallax adjustment
Pros
- A flip-up cap is included
- Lifetime warranty
- Guarantees super clear images in all conditions
- Robustly made
- Long eye relief
2) Hawke Sport Optics Airmax 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope
Another excellent varmint scope for .223 is Hawke Sport Optics Airmax 4-12x40mm Riflescope. The scope utilizes an AMX reticle directly etched on the glass to make the most of your time in the field. This, in addition to the fully multi-coated lenses with sixteen layers, delivers high-quality, clear, and crisp target images regardless of the lighting situation.
Head out into any weather with this scope; it will not let you down. This is because it is nitrogen purged and thus is fog proof. It is also waterproof and shockproof. It has a one-inch single-piece tube chassis that guarantees a solid and resilient scope.
The Hawke Sport Optics Airmax 4-12x40AO Rifle Scope has a wide-view optical system perfectly suited for your .223 and is adjustable to match varied scenarios. A fast focus eye bell ensures that you never miss a shot.
Features
- AMX reticle
- Non-illuminated reticle
- Adjustable objective
- Matte finish
- Fully multi-coated glass
- 5 inches of eye relief
- Wide view optical system
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
Pros
- Ideal for all lighting conditions
- Durable
- Long eye relief
- Weatherproof
- Great value for money
Cons
- No drawbacks
3) Burris Veracity 3-15x50mm FFP Rifle Scope
Burris Veracity 3-15x50mm FFP Riflescope is a prime choice for the .223. The wide magnification range makes it perfect for both close and long ranges. This rifle scope is specially designed for avid big-game and varmint hunters.
Veracity 3-15×50 is ergonomically created for a seamless performance. It has the requisite accuracy and precision for the successful hunting of varmints. The reticle integrates useful features that help you determine the target size and the distance allowing pin-point shot placement at all magnification settings. The unrivaled accuracy makes Veracity 3-15×50 one of the best varmint scopes for 223.
Its 50mm objective lens guarantees maximum light into the scope. This is of the essence for high-quality images. Also, it has Hi-Lume multi-coated lenses that lead to perfect light transmission leading to outstanding images.
Additionally, the scope has a 5:1 zoom system that ensures a wide field of view at low magnification and instant target acquisition at maximum magnification. Regarding construction, it is durably made of aircraft-grade aluminum. This is in addition to being waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof.
Also present in the scope is easy-to-adjust knobs that are useful for windage and elevation modifications and help return the scope to zero after sighting in. The ergonomic side focus makes parallax correction intuitive from 50 yards to infinity.
Features
- 30mm main tube
- Superior glass
- 5:1 zoom ratio
- Durable construction
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- Ergonomic knobs for windage and elevation changes
- Double internal spring-tension system
- Ballistic Plex reticle
- First focal plane
Pros
- Survives tough conditions
- Easy and accurate windage and elevation adjustments
- Side focus is ergonomically placed
- Unmatched brightness and clarity
- Outstanding long-range performance
- Hold zero well
- Clear glass
- Covered by Burris forever warranty
Cons
- Expensive for those on a budget
4) Leupold VX-6HD 4-24x52mm SFP Rifle Scope
The VX-6HD 4-24X52 is undoubtedly one of the best varmint scopes for 223 for serious hunters. A wide magnification range gives the flexibility to browse targets from afar. The Xtended Twilight Lens Technology is Leupold’s latest and most advanced light management system.
When it comes to light transmission, brightness, and glare elimination, the Leupold VX-6HD should be your go-to choice. This, along with the Index Matched Lens System, and you are assured of the best image quality ever viewed.
Another exciting feature of this USA-made scope is the unrivaled DiamondCoat 2 exterior lens coating technology that keeps lenses in top shape and free of scratches, fingerprints, or errant raindrops that may obscure your vision.
This coating exceeds the military requirement for optics durability and hardness, allowing you to see the clearest, most immaculate, and sharpest images possible.
The CDS-ZL2 optimizes longer shots by removing holdovers or ballistic calculations by employing a personalized dial to your gear. With the push-button ZeroLock mechanism, the CDS-ZL2 allows for two revolutions of elevation adjustment while preventing accidental dial movement.
The illuminated Varmint Hunter reticle on this 4-24X52 mm rifle scope provides bullet drop compensation. Such a reticle is useful in dim environments and ensures you don’t miss a shot of your prey.
Features
- 34mm main tube
- Illuminated reticle
- DiamondCoat 2 on the lens
- Xtended Twilight Lens Technology
- Side focus parallax adjustment
- Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- Motion Sensor Technology
- Reversible throw lever
- Push-button illumination
Pros
- Superior quality glass
- Excellent light transmission
- A fast-focus eyepiece
- Long battery life
Cons
- Pricey
5) Leapers UTG 6-24x50mm Hunter Rifle Scope
This scope promises to make your varmint hunting more competitive. It boasts a litany of features that make it a worthy investment. Since it is entirely sealed and filled with nitrogen, Leapers UTG 6-24x50mm Hunter Riflescope gets the job done in all environmental conditions.
You don’t have to worry about moisture or fog penetrating the scope and causing damage. It is ruggedly constructed for shockproof performance. It incorporates Emerald coated lenses which result in clear and high-contrast images by allowing maximum light into the scope.
Even in dismal lighting, you can be sure that images are visible. In addition, the patented EZ-TAP Illumination Enhancing (IE) System with RGB in Dual-Color Mode and 36 Colors in Multi-Color Mode makes the scope perform well across all environments and lighting situations.
The scope is designed with lockable turrets for easy, fast, and accurate windage and elevation adjustments. The turrets also facilitate an easy return to zero after sighting in the riflescope.
The reticle in the scope is the Mil-dot range Estimating type that truly enhances your aiming and shooting skills.
Features
- Emerald coated lenses
- Rugged build
- Mil-dot range estimating reticle
- Lockable turrets
- Parallax can be adjusted from 10 yards to infinity.
- Patented EZ-TAP illumination Enhancing System
- High-tech Illumination Memory in 1 Click
- Black matte finish
- One tube construction
- 2-3.0 inches of eye relief
Pros
- Clear images in all lighting conditions
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- Easy windage and elevation adjustments
- Impressive quality
Cons
- Thin clear plastic box packaging
6) Barska Varmint 5-20x 50mm Rifle Scope
Barska Varmint 5-20x50mm Riflescope is an excellent pick for 223 since it is long-range capable. It is what you need when pinpoint accuracy is required.
It features a glass-etched MOA IR reticle with red and green illumination. There are five brightness settings to opt from and to avoid possible washout of your target and sight image, only the center of the crosshair glows.
Barska 5-20x50mm Riflescope is equipped with a massive 50mm objective lens that allows optimal light into the scope. This ensures that the images produced are bright and clear, even in dismal lighting conditions.
There’s more, the lenses are fully multi-coated, helping in more light transmission. So, the scope is for sure ideal for dusk and dawn when varmints are most likely to be spotted.
Also, the scope is robustly constructed. It is nonetheless waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof for reliability in all environmental conditions. A 4:1 zoom ratio makes the scope ideal for shooting at medium and long distances.
There are capped turrets for easy windage and elevation adjustments. Nevertheless, there is the Zero-Reset feature for returning the device to zero without hassle.
Features
- Versatile 5-20x magnification
- 4:1 zoom ratio
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- Wide 50mm objective lens
- Zero-Reset feature
- Five brightness settings
Pros
- Easy windage and elevation adjustments
- Ideal for low-light situations
- Super clear images
- Great magnification
- Durable
- Affordable
Cons
- Blurry at maximum magnification
7) Vortex Razor HD LHT 3-15x50mm Rifle Scope
Vortex Razor HD LHT 3-15x50mm Riflescope is a high-quality scope that promises excellent performance. The scope has an unbeatable aircraft-grade aluminum construction that makes it survive the challenging conditions associated with outdoor use.
A matte anodized fish is corrosion-free and helps conceal the shooter’s positions. Like other Vortex scopes, the Razor HD LHT 3-15x50mm is completely waterproof and fog-proof for relentless performance and longevity.
In addition, the scope has durable and scratch-resistant Armortek coatings that protect the lenses.
Since hunting varmints is mostly done at dawn or dusk, where lighting is poor, this scope makes it easier to spot the creatures. This is thanks to its fully multi-coated lenses coupled with anti-reflective properties for clear, bright, and sharp images. HD optical system leads to unmatched color fidelity and excellent resolution.
What’s more, the 50mm objective lens is vast enough to collect more than enough light so that you get nothing but clear images. Besides, the reticle is illuminated, making the scope ideal for dismal lighting.
Features
- Robust anodized finish
- Single-piece tube crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum.
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Armortek coating on the lens
- Illuminated reticle
- O-ring sealed and argon purged
- G4i-BDC reticle
- Lockable elevation turrets
- Capped windage turrets
Pros
- Maximum light transmission
- Perfect for low-light conditions
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Guarantees many years of use
Cons
- Bulky and large
- Second focal plane reticle
8) NightForce SHV 5-20x56mm Rifle Scope
We saved the best for last. Nightforce SHV 5-20x56mm Riflescope has earned a reputation among varmint hunters as it has plenty of incredible features that make it a force to be reckoned with among the best varmint scopes for 223.
On this NF SHV scope, the MOAR ballistic reticle has 140 MOA increment lines that are pretty useful for ranging in on small varmints at extended ranges. The windage and elevation crosshairs will not light up when the center or cross does, as this reticle is solely center-illuminated. The IHR illuminated, and non-illuminated reticles are also available for this model.
All NightForce optics are durably constructed, and this model is no exception. The scope is completely waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof hence withstands challenging outdoor conditions. A 30mm main tube enhances the resilience and durability of the scope.
There is a side focus parallax adjustment. The closest distance at which parallax may be corrected is 25 yards. It’s worth noting that if you choose the illuminated type, the side focus and illumination settings are integrated.
Although it appears difficult to use, it is quite simple. That’s a great technique that makes things super easy. Thanks to the Zero reset feature, returning the scope to zero is effortless after sighting in.
Features
- Illuminated reticles
- Gigantic 56mm objective lens
- 30mm main tube
- 5 inches of eye relief
- Throw lever for easy magnification changes
- Turrets are easy to adjust
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- Side focus parallax adjustment
Pros
- Excellent image quality across all magnifications
- Solid construction
- Eleven adjustments on the reticle
- Great glass quality
Cons
- Expensive
- A bit heavy
Further Reading
- Best Vortex Scopes for 300 Win Mag
- Best Vortex Scopes for 450 Bushmaster
- Best Scopes for Prairie Dog Hunting
- Best Vortex Varmint Scopes
- Best Leupold Scopes for Mini 14
How to Choose the Best Scopes for 223
Magnification
There are a variety of scopes available with varying magnification levels; you must first decide what range you want to shoot at before purchasing a scope. It doesn’t matter if you’re shooting close, mid-range, or long-range.
If you plan on shooting long distances, a scope with a magnification range of at least 9x is recommended; for close-range shooting, 4x would do.
If you plan on doing long-range shooting, ensure you obtain a scope with adjustable parallax, as parallax can cause the view to become hazy.
Read: Best Binoculars for Varmint Hunting
Eye Relief
This is an important feature to look for in any scope because you don’t want to go shooting and end up with an injury.
Eye relief is the part of the scope that protects your eyes from the recoil of a firearm. Eye relief in a scope should be at least 3 to 4 inches. It also helps maintain your focus and minimizes strain on your eyes.
Durability
This is a pertinent factor directly related to the materials used to construct the scope. At the very least, a scope should serve its duty for a long time before becoming damaged; otherwise, it is pretty much useless.
Scopes manufactured of aircraft-grade aluminum are incredibly durable. In addition, look for scopes that are waterproof, fog-proof, shockproof, and resistant to harsh weather.
Related: Best Scopes for Coyote Hunting
Light Transmission
Even in the dark, a scope should deliver a bright and clear image of your target. Hunters are no strangers to poor lighting situations, so you must be prepared for any eventuality.
You can’t guarantee that you’ll see your prey during the day, so be prepared for everything. There are various scopes with effective light transmission; choose one with excellent light transmission to avoid being caught off guard while hunting.
Even in the dark, a scope with good light transmission will ensure accurate and precise shots. An illuminated reticle will be a great incentive when hunting in low-light conditions. When the dot is illuminated your shooting accuracy is immensely improved.
Weight
The weight of the scope is influenced by the objective lens size and tube diameter. The scope will be heavier if the objective lens diameter is larger.
The same can be said about the tube’s diameter. A lighter scope is the best for a shooter who is always on the move. If you have sandbags as a cushion, any weight will suffice.
Read: Best Vortex Varmint Scopes
What Magnification Do You Need?
Your intended purpose determines the appropriate magnification. You should look for magnification in the 2x-10x or 4x-12x ranges if you want a versatile magnification that will handle all scenarios.
Low magnification paired with the BDC reticle on the first focal plane will result in a phenomenal performance. The BDC will only operate with most scopes constructed in the First Focal Plane at low magnification.
A first and second focal plane design options are available in your scope. The reticle will remain the same size when you zoom in and in a second focal plane.
The other hash marks on the BDC reticle won’t adjust for lower magnification settings. This means they are useless unless you’re using the maximum magnification setting.
This won’t be an issue if you’re using the.223 for long-range target practice because you’ll be on maximum magnification all day and can use the hash markings throughout.
If you want to hit varmints at 200 to 300 yards without fiddling with the elevation and windage turrets, the focal plane and magnification are both important factors.
Read: Best Scopes for Hog Hunting
Best Scopes for 223 FAQs
Q: What is the Right Scope Size for a 223?
When you buy a rifle scope manufactured specifically for the 223, the size will fit without needing to be adjusted.
If you have your heart set on a particular scope but aren’t sure if it will work with your 223 rifles, it would be best to stay with a 1-inch tube. Because the gun is typically used for long-range hunting, you don’t want to carry a weight on your trip. 223 scopes are commonly lighter.
Q: What Reticle is Best for 223 Scopes?
The BDC reticle is currently the most popular and simple to operate. If you have specific hunting needs, you may want to explore alternative solutions, as the BDC reticle is not designed to go into detail.
Q: What is the Best Scope for Varmint Hunting?
There are many good varmint scopes available on the market. Your preference also determines the ideal scope for you. However, all the scopes above are great choices for this activity.
The Burris 3-15x Veracity Rifle Scope is the best scope for varmint hunting. It harbors functional features, and superior optics and performs excellently in the field. You will not be disappointed when taking down the varmints with this scope.
Conclusion
Your .223 requires a good scope for flawless shooting. Finding the best scope should no longer be a tedious task for you. We have made everything easier for you. Getting any of the eight scopes illustrated above means you are good to go for life.