Today, you will find the best scopes for 500 yards. The 500-yard range poses a challenge for anyone looking to make advancements in shooting distance. To succeed at it you need the best optical gear you can come across.
Since 500 yards falls under the long-range bracket, you need a scope that is powerful enough to handle that distance. The best scopes for 500 yards have enough power to enhance your long-range shooting capabilities.
Choosing from the many options available can be overwhelming especially when it comes down to striking a good balance between price and quality. If you have been on the search for a good scope we did the donkeywork for you and found a top selection of the best scopes that will do you justice for 500 yards.
Before we delve into each here are some important questions and considerations worth looking into as you make a scope selection.
What Magnification Do You Need for 500 Yards?
Magnification in scopes is one of the anchors upon which scopes are built. 500 yards is a tricky distance and having the right magnification is of importance to achieve accurate precise shots. 3-9x and 4-12x magnification ranges are the most common in the scopes you will come across.
These ranges are ideal for 500 yards and offer versatility in use since you will not be shooting within 500 yards all the time. Bartering magnification for the field of view and vice versa will always be a decision you will always be faced with most when you are hunting small targets.
For small-size targets, you need high magnification to zero in. The higher you go on magnification, the smaller the field of view. In the long run, the choice of scope will depend on preference and how you intend to use it.
7 Best Scopes for 500 Yards
With that in mind, here are the best scopes for 500 yards that will help you excel when you embark on your next hunting expedition.
1) Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x56mm CDS-ZL2 Side Focus Riflescope
Step up your game with one of the best scopes by Leupold, the Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x56mm CDS-ZL2 Side Focus Riflescope which brings to the table a 5:1 zoom ratio which is quite an asset for 500 yards. Its ultra-weight compact design makes it a favorite for hunting as portability is easy.
You will also find that it is nitrogen purged making it waterproof and fogproof. Leupold uses the Twilight Max HD Light Management System to attain bright image views. The system also reduces up to 90% glare offers half an hour’s extra lighting time when shooting in low lit environments.
Firedot illumination is also an added bonus for this purpose. Guard ions lens coating system lengthens lens durability by making them resistant to dirt and scratches. In the scope is also a push-button zero lock system to help you quickly revert to your original zero.
Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x56mm CDS-ZL2 Side Focus Riflescope also integrates the use of Motion Sensor Technology to help with the quick identification of targets.
As one of the best scopes for 500 yards, the VX-5HD scope gives you all the flexibility to help you conquer the field. Whether you are hunting in the mountains or open plains, this scope is your best companion for excellence.
Key Features
- Variable magnification to accommodate various shooting scenarios
- 5:1 zoom ratio bring far objects up close
- Ultra-lightweight compact design for easy portability
- Twilight Max HD Light Management System for enhanced light transmission
- Scratch-resistant lens
- Utilizes Motion Sensor Technology to identify targets
- Push-button Zerolock system
- Side focus and a fast-focus eyepiece
- FireDot Illumination
- Packed with lens covers
Pros
- Relentless performance courtesy of the professional-grade optical system
- Unparalleled versatility due to the larger zoom ratio
- SFP reticles come in handy when hunting in low-light conditions
- Minimal perceived movement when shooting at varying distances
Cons
- Has issues with warranty
2) Athlon Optics Neos 6-18×44 Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
Who said to find the best scopes for 500 yards you have to break the bank? The Neos 6-18×44 model is a testimony that even on a budget, you can still find a quality scope that will increase your chances of success while hunting from far. The riflescope is rich in performance-enhancing features packed in a one-piece aluminum tube.
Athlon Optics is a giant in scope manufacture and our focus goes to this scope from their Neos series. While viewing objects 500 yards away is not an easy thing to do, you will this Athlon Optic riflescope particularly helpful with the reticle options they give.
You can choose from the center X reticle or the BDC reticle options. The reticle is safely etched in glass for durability. On this scope, you will also find modern-look windage and elevation turrets. The magnification ring moves smoothly to facilitate zooming in and out on targets. Eye relief is very satisfying as well.
Athlon Optics Neos 6-18×44 Second Focal Plane Riflescope is made with heat-treated aircraft-grade aluminum to repel against water. Aluminum is also good in withstanding the shock from firearm recoil. A nitrogen purge is added to make it fogproof. Athlon gives a lifetime warranty for this product.
Key Features
- Tough aircraft-grade aluminum is used in the manufacture
- Several reticle options to choose from
- Glass-etched reticle
- The smooth-moving magnification ring
- Satisfying eye relief
- Nitrogen purged to be fogproof and heat-treated to be waterproof
- Easy-adjust turrets
- Lifetime warranty
Pros
- Durably constructed to excel in the harshest weather conditions
- The multi-coated optics help increase light transmission for bright images
- Reticle illumination enhances visibility in low-light environments
- Withstands shock emanating from the recoil action
Cons
- Tight side adjustment knob
3) Trijicon Tenmile HX 3-18x44mm Rifle Scope
Dominate the hunting grounds and get the accurate results that you demand by pairing your rifle with an effective hunting scope. As one of the best scopes for 500 yards, this Trijicon rifle scope will help you with any aiming so you can execute precise shots on your hunting escapades.
The scope stands out as an extraordinary hunting optic due to its long-range prowess. The turrets deliver crisp and precise adjustments to help you lock in distant targets with confidence. They are also capped to prevent accidental dials once you have zeroed in the scope.
Another positive attribute that makes this scope one of the best scopes for 500 yards is its durable construction. The tube housing the optics is ruggedized to withstand weather elements in the hunting fields.
With nitrogen-purged housing and 100% waterproof and fogproof construction, you have a dependable rifle scope that can handle anything directed toward it. Mount it on your hunting rifle for the best results in the field.
Hunters will love the sharp and crisp images delivered by this rifle scope. The lenses are made of superior glass and are fully multi-coated to enhance light transmission. The edge-to-edge clarity and high resolution deliver images with zero distortion.
Features
- Illuminated reticle provide a clear aiming point
- Fluent windage and elevation adjusters
- Capped turrets ensure no accidental dials
- Exceptional clarity
- Rugged and durable construction
- FFP reticle
- Waterproof and fogproof construction
- Nitrogen-filled for shockproof performance
- Compatible with different rifle
Pros
- Easy to zero
- Streamlined for optimal visual performance
- Bright and crisp images in any light
- Precise aiming
- Tracks fluently and truthfully
- Low profile controls for seamless adjustment
- Unrivaled versatility
Cons
- Limited eye box
- Expensive
4) Burris 3-15×50 Veracity FFP Rifle Scope
For improved performance and long-range accuracy, the Burris Veracity rifle scope is the ideal solution to enhance long-range performance. Harboring functional and practical features, this rifle scope will take your shooting experience to the next level.
As one of the best scopes for 500 yards, this rifle scope is designed to deliver crisp and bright images. The large objective lens allows maximum light collection while the lens coating aids in glare reduction and low-light performance. Get stunning images when hunting in any light with this effective rifle scope.
To boost your confidence when taking long-range shots, the scope is fitted with low-profile adjustment knobs for seamless elevation and windage adjustments. On the side is a parallax adjuster that removes any parallax to ensure your shot hits the target accurately.
The other positive facet of this rifle scope is build quality. The rifle scope is built with lasting durability in mind. The tube is made of resilient materials, purged with dry gases and fully sealed to lock out moisture and other elements that may interfere with the scope’s integrity.
Hunters looking for a versatile scope that doesn’t compromise on performance and features should trust the Burris 3-15×50 Veracity Rifle Scope for the most demanding hunts. Mount this incredible scope and see the difference quality glass makes.
Features
- Ballistic Plex E1 FFP reticle
- 50mm objective lens enhances light transmission.
- Versatile zoom system
- Finger adjustable turrets
- A side-focus parallax knob
- Ergonomic design for seamless adjustments
- Superior glass and lens coating for enhanced light transmission
- Rigid construction
- Shockproof, fogproof and waterproof
Pros
- Outstanding low-light performance
- Excellent brightness and clarity
- Accurate focusing and aiming
- Versatile magnification
- Easy to zero
- Seamless adjustments
- Great warranty
Cons
No drawbacks
5) CenterPoint Optics LR416AORG2 4-16x40mm Adjustable Objective Riflescope
One of the features to love about CenterPoint Optics LR416AORG2 4-16x40mm Adjustable Objective Riflescope is their illuminated bullet drop compensating reticle, usually red or green that works for even ranges of up to 600 yards.
The reticle is situated on the second focal plane. The objective lens size is at 40mm which gives a decent field of view for the 500-yard range.4-16x magnification means you can go lower in yardage and still achieve a great shot.
This scope is equipped with a multi-coated lens to eliminate glare and give fine image resolution. The lens is quite durable given that the scope is packaged with lens covers. The Parallax setting is at 10 yards to infinity along with Finger-click capped turrets that are easy to adjust.
The rugged construction of this 1-inch tube guarantees a lifetime of great performance and solidifies the scope’s position among other best scopes for 500 yards.
Key Features
- Illuminated BDC reticle
- Variable magnification to suit short and long ranges
- Coated lens for glare reduction and crisp images
- Ideal for distances 500 yards and over
- Wide field of view
- Packed with lens covers
- Has easy to adjust finger-click turrets that come with caps
- Ruggedly built to be long-lasting
Pros
- Durable construction to ensure many years of use
- High-end performance at a reasonable price
- Specially designed optics to deliver unrivaled image clarity
Cons
- Limited eye relief
- The windage adjustment can be stiff
6) Vortex Optics Strike Eagle Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
Trying to position your caliber for a good 500-yard shot can be equally challenging and frustrating because it can be hard to tell how far from point of aim the bullet will land. Enter Vortex Optics Strike Eagle Second Focal Plane Riflescopes that carry BDC3 reticle to save you from numerous estimates and calculations.
The reticle is located on the second focal plane therefore it retains its appearance and is best seen at the highest magnification which is ideally what you require for 500 yards.
It is also worth noting that the reticle is illuminated. To focus the reticle quickly, you also have a fast focus dial on the eyepiece. This riflescope’s lens is made of extra-low dispersion glass with an anti-reflective coating on it.
It is designed to be lightweight in case carrying around a voluminous scope is not your cup of tea. The tube is made of anodized aluminum and shows excellent performance in unfavorable weather conditions. You also get great eye relief and everything else you are looking for in the best scopes for 500 yards.
Key Features
- Variable enhances the versatility of the scope
- Anti-reflective coatings for enhanced light transmission for utmost clarity
- Shockproof solid 30mm construction that shrugs off rifle recoil
- Faster target acquisition
- 6 times zoom range allows swift target acquisition in close quarters situations
- Single-piece tube optimizes alignments for accuracy and visual performance
- A fast-focus eyepiece allows seamless and swift reticle focusing
Pros
- High-grade extra-low dispersion glass with anti-reflective coating for excellent image clarity and resolution
- Glass-etched illuminated BDC3 reticle for durability plus holdover estimations
- Fast focus dial on the eyepiece
- Rugged, constructed with anodized aluminum to withstand harsh unfavorable weather conditions
- Lightweight
Cons
- Flip caps added are flimsy
7) Bushnell Optics, Drop Zone Reticle Riflescope with Target Turrets
Be sure also to look for Bushnell Optics scopes and this one in particular caught our eye because of the great craftsmanship employed in its manufacture. It has a good-looking matte finish and overall is made with long-lasting aluminum alloy with fast sealing to keep elements intact.
Moving to the interiors you will find the Drop Zone 223BDC reticle on the second focal plane that is calibrated to give precisions on aiming points even reaching 500 yards. Should you go lower on yardage, the reticle plus magnification range will still supply brightly clear images.
Now let’s talk numbers for a second; The Objective diameter lens is 24mm combined with 1-4x magnification, the field of view you have is just what you need for even 600 yards because at 1x magnification field of view is at 90ft per 100 yards while at 4x it is at 23feet.
The lens is fully multicoated to maintain crisp image quality at all magnifications. The tube is 13.5 inches long and weighs 1.06 pounds. On it also you will find swift responding turrets coupled with side parallax adjustments for killer shots. To get value for your money, this is the best scope.
Pros
- Fully multi-coated lens
- Has side focus parallax adjustment
- Large objective lens
- Argon purged with an anodized finish
- Waterproof
- Comes with a scope cover
Cons
- The reticle is not illuminated
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- Best Medium Range Scopes for 6.5 Creedmoor
- Best Vortex Scopes for 300 Win Mag
Best Scopes for 500 Yards Buying Guide & FAQs
Factors to Consider when Buying 500 Yards Scope
Aside from these three factors, here are some additional features to watch out for
High-Quality Lens
The high-quality lens is the mainstay of excellent visuals. It determines the accuracy and quality of images you get. Choosing a poor-quality lens translates to poor image quality and some extent brings strain on the eye.
The best scopes for 500 yards usually have lens coating to protect from dirt, dust, scratch, and even fingerprint marks. The lens should also possess antireflective properties.
Optimal Light Transmission
The amount of light taken in through the lens is a huge determining factor in image clarity. The best scopes for 500 yards should have a good light transmission for different light conditions whether at dawn, midday, or dusk even without the inclusion of an illuminated reticle. Usually, optimal light transmission is made possible by sufficient objective lens size and lens quality.
Parallax Adjustment
Parallax adjustments are necessary for precision when focusing at 500 yards. A scope with this feature enables you to quickly focus on targets without necessarily having to make changes in shooting position.
Adjustable Turrets
Windage and elevation knobs on the scope should be marked and positioned in areas that are easy to reach. With adjustable turrets, accuracy becomes the least of your worries because you have the correct estimations on holdover and wind impact.
Target
Target size matters in long-range shooting and 500 yards is a long-range. Therefore, you will need a scope best suited for focusing on targets with accuracy despite their size. A small target like squirrels or Bobwhite quails demands high power scope for long-range sighting.
Moreover, with a wild boar, you might need a whole different configuration. Also, you will find scopes with simpler reticles useful for target shooting which is not the case in hunting where you require more precision.
Durability
Shooting at 500 yards is usually done with large-caliber rifles like the .458 Winchester magnum. A scope is no good if it cannot brave the recoil that comes with such a caliber rifle.
Also, a good scope should be usable in all weather conditions. Check for the material used for construction and ensure it guarantees use for long periods even in the harshest terrains.
Price and Warranty
Choose a scope that does not surpass your budget without trading off quality in the process. The addition of a warranty can make you a good saving in the case a scope does not perform as was expected.
Read: Best Riflescopes for Hunting
First Focal Plane vs Second Focal Plane
The debate on which is better between the First Focal Plane (FFP) and Second Focal Plane (SFP) is one that is not soon ending. Previously, the SFP style was used in most of the scopes but currently, the FFP is fast gaining popularity with many rifle owners.
The difference between these two planes is the difference they make when the reticle rests on them. In the second focal plane, the reticle remains constant in size no matter the magnification setting while in the first focal plane reticle changes relative to magnification changes.
The main advantage in SFP is that always has a sharp reticle view despite the magnification set and in FFP the hold over remains the same despite changing magnification which is why it is ideal for long-range shooting.
The downside to SFP is that the reticle tends to be most accurate at the highest setting meaning that at a lower setting, the estimation may not be correct. For FFP the reticle gets too thick at high magnification and too thin when at a lower setting robbing you of the chance of a clear shot. Depending on your expertise and needs, both planes should work just fine.
Read: Scopes for High Recoil Rifles
How Much Eye Relief Do You Need?
Eye relief is the distance between the eye position and the scope. Recoils and impact from rifles can easily give you a black eye when eye relief is limited. Any scope should be able to give generous eye relief to save you from scope bite.
Good eye relief will also reduce strain on you when you have been sighting with the scope for long periods. 500 yards scopes should ideally have up to about 4 inches of eye relief. Such distance will also afford you several shooting position options.
Best Scopes for 500 Yards FAQs
Q: What is a Scope for 500 yards?
A scope for 500 yards can be explained as a scope designed to match the specifications for great performance within 500 yards or less. This scope is usually for hunters or shooters who have perfected their art in short-range shooting and want to advance to a longer one.
Q: What Makes a Great Scope for 500 yards?
From our reviews, you can already tell what makes a scope the best for any given range and they could be summarized as follows:
Attributes of a Great 500 Yards Scope
- Variable wide magnification range
- Large objective lens diameter
- Fully multi-coated lens for good light transmission
- Performs well in all lighting conditions
- Has a reticle
- Swiftly adjustable turrets
- Has parallax adjustment
- Rugged waterproof construction
- Light in weight
Conclusion
500 yards is not a very long range yet it is not a short one either and getting a scope for it can be a daunting task. However optic manufacturers have made it easier to bag one that is why we took time to go through scopes that have stood the test of time and continue offering relentless performance. Hopefully, you have found one that tickled yours as well.