Looking for the best scopes for prairie dog hunting? You have come to the right place. In today’s post, we look at the best scopes for prairie dog hunting and important considerations to keep in mind when buying a scope.
People love to hunt prairie dogs during the day because that’s when they are mostly come out. While some people hunt prairie dogs for recreational purposes, most farmers see them as a pest. Therefore, they hunt them as a means of pest control.
What Makes a Great Scope for Prairie Dog Hunting?
There are a few things that make a great scope for prairie dog hunting. First, since prairie dogs are mainly active during the day, the scope should be able to reduce glare when shooting in broad daylight.
Secondly, the scope should have a quick and easy zeroing process. The reticle should be clear and easy to focus on for rapid target acquisition.
Lastly, the scope should have the right magnification and high-quality lens. If you are hunting prairie dogs at close range you should use a scope with a low power magnification. However, long-range hunting requires high-power magnification.
When it comes to lenses, the scope should produce clear images for accurate shot placement. The lenses should be coated with a protective material so they are abrasion-resistant.
Best Scopes for Prairie Dog Hunting-Our Top Picks
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Bushnell Engage 6-24x50mm Rifle Scope |
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Athlon Optics 6-24×50 Riflescope |
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Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 Riflescope |
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MEOPTA Optika6 3-18×50 30mm Hunting Riflescope |
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NIGHTFORCE SHV 5-20×56 Scope |
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7 Best Scopes for Prairie Dog Hunting
If you love to hunt prairie dogs, you need to have the best scope for the job. The scope must be highly accurate so it’s able to spot these small creatures regardless of the distance.
It should also be able to reduce glare since prairie dog hunting takes place during the day. For your convenience, we have made a list of the best scopes for prairie dog hunting available on the market today. Let’s take a look.
#1) Bushnell Engage 6-24×50 Riflescope
Bushnell makes high-quality riflescopes and the Engage 6-24×50 Riflescope is no exemption. This riflescope comes with tons of impressive features that make it one of the best scopes for prairie dog hunting.
It is highly flexible and comes with 0.18-MOA-thick crosshairs that are easy to see without blocking the target picture. Also, the scope has harsh marks at every 1MOA for precise elevation holdover.
The scope features an impressive optical performance that cements its name among the best scopes for prairie dog hunting. It has an ultra-wideband coating that is customized for every lens element.
It enhances light transmission from the front glass to the eyepiece for optimum image brightness and clarity across the light spectrum.
The EXO barrier protection on the exterior lens surfaces helps shed water, oil, dust and debris. It also protects the lens from scratches and won’t fog up when there are temperature changes.
Another notable feature about the scope is the generous eye relief. It remains constant regardless of the magnification power for comfortable viewing. It also keeps your eyes safe from high-recoil rifles. The flip-open objective lens and the eyepiece protective cover keep the lenses clean and clear all through.
Additionally, the scope comes with a great set of windage, elevation and parallax adjustment turrets which are lockable and easy to adjust. The 30mm main tube is durably made to provide many years of field use. The black matte finish minimizes glare during the day helping you to camouflage your shooting position.
The scope also features a special ceiling for a reliable waterproof and fog-proof performance. Durability, reliability and outstanding performance makes Bushnell Engage riflescope stand out amongst other scopes for prairie dog hunting.
Features
- Sturdy and durable construction
- Special ceiling to lock out dust and moisture
- Adjustable windage and elevation
- Generous eye relief
- Flexible design
- Wide 6-24x magnification
- Second Focal Plane reticle
- Lockable turrets, including parallax
- Flip-open objective lens
- Special lens coatings
#2) Athlon Optics 6-24×50 Riflescope
The Athlon 6-24×5 is a high-end scope suitable for hunting prairie dogs at varying ranges. The wide magnification range makes it suitable for multiple shooting disciplines.
Hosting an array of high-end features at a competitive price tag, this riflescope is undoubtedly one of the best scopes for prairie dog hunting. The lightweight design makes it easy to use, mount and shoot. Plus, it’s easy to carry in the field as you look for targets.
The riflescope features a reticle housed in the first focal plane. It shrinks or grows with a change in magnification. The reticle is glass-etched to provide great backing support for complex reticle design, enhance durability and provide much higher resistance to recoil and shock.
The advanced fully multi-coated lenses provide better light transmission for bright, clear, and true-to-color images across the whole light spectrum. The XPL coating on the exterior lenses provides additional protection from dirt, oil, and scratches. So, you are assured that your lens won’t get scratched as you search for targets.
This 30mm scope is built from 6061 aircraft-quality aluminum. This gives it exceptional strength, durability, and superior mechanical integrity. The unit is also argon purged to give you reliable waterproofing and thermal stability.
Look no further for the best scopes for prairie dog hunting than the Athlon Optics 6-24×50 riflescope. The reticle in this scope is designed to offer optimal performance in mid-range and long distance making it the best choice for hunting prairie dogs.
Features
- Advanced fully multi-coated lenses
- Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- XPL coating on the exterior lenses
- Parallax side focus
- Illuminated reticle
- Glass-etched reticle
- Fully waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- Windage and elevation adjustment
- Lightweight design
#3) Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 FFP Riflescope
Next up is the Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 FFP Riflescope which is specially designed for long-range shooting. So, if you intend to hunt prairie dogs at mid to long ranges, this riflescope will deliver.
It provides a wide range of high-quality features for great long-range performance. The scope is durably made so you can pass it to the next generation.
The single-piece 30mm tube is made from aircraft-grade aluminum which makes it shockproof, impact-resistant and recoil-proof. The unit is also O-ring sealed at both ends to prevent the entry of moisture and nitrogen purged to provide reliable fog-proof performance.
This riflescope provides bright and clear image views. It features extra-low dispersion glass which reduces light reflection and fully multi-coated lenses which enhance optimum light transmission.
The glass-etched reticle is housed on the first focal plane. It keeps the sub-tension accurate throughout the 4x zoom range for accurate shot placement.
Thanks to the fast-focus eyepiece, you can focus the reticle quickly and easily for fast target acquisition. The scope also brings to the table a precision-glide erector system for smooth magnification changes.
You can also remove parallax for long-range precision shooting. Hosting a wide array of impressive features, this scope scores highly among the best scopes for prairie dog hunting.
Features
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Sturdy and durable construction
- Glass-etched first focal plane reticle
- Exposed tactical turrets
- Side parallax knob
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Shockproof and impact-resistant
- Fully multi-coated lenses and extra-low dispersion glass
- Versatile 4x zoom range
#4) Vortex Optics Viper HS LR Second Focal Plane Riflescope
Here is another Vortex riflescope suitable for prairie dog hunting. The Viper HS LR Second Focal Plane Riflescope is designed for seasoned hunters looking to extend their shooting range.
With a wide 6-24x magnification, this long-range riflescope helps you spot prairie dogs easily at any range. Superb light transmission, high degree precision and tough construction are some of the highlights that make this riflescope a front-runner among the best scopes for prairie dog hunting.
With the MAG-View fiber optic, the scope provides a clear reference point for the magnification setting. The XLR MOA reticle is hash marked with wind drifts dot as well as 1 MOA wind reference sub tensions.
This makes it ideal for long-range shooters who dial for bullet drop or hold drop while using the reticle. The reticle is housed on the first focal plane so it grows or shrinks as you change the magnification. On top of that, the scope comes with a fast-focus eyepiece which lets you focus the reticle quickly and with ease.
The riflescope is built to last. It is crafted with high-quality aluminum for great strength and durability. The hard-anodized matte black finish enhances durability and reduces glare when shooting in broad daylight. The scope is also argon purged to provide fog-proof and waterproof performance.
When it comes to optical performance, the HS LR offers bright, clear and color-accurate views. The advanced optical system boasts XD glass which makes the images sharp and clear.
The scope also features XR multi-coated lenses that help you gather more light from dusk to dawn. Apart from that, the scope has a parallax adjustment setting from 50 yards to infinity.
Features
- Ultra-hard scratchproof Armortek coatings
- Fogproof and waterproof
- Hard-anodized black matte finish
- Exposed target-style elevation turrets
- XR fully-multicoated lenses
- Versatile 4x zoom
- CRS Zero stop system
- The fast-focus eyepiece
- FFP XLR MOA reticle
- Generous eye relief
- Superior long-range accuracy
#5) Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II First Focal Plane Riflescopes
The Viper PST Gen II is one of the best scopes for prairie dog hunting. The riflescope offers impressive performance in all hunting applications making it an all-round optic for various hunting disciplines. It’s equipped with an array of rock-solid tactical features to meet your hunting needs and exceed your expectations.
It remains accurate at all magnifications making it easier for you to take out prairie dogs at any range. It weighs about 1 pound so it’s lightweight, easy to carry in the field and convenient for hunting.
This riflescope features laser-etched turrets and an RZR zero-stop system for easy bullet drop and wind compensation. The turret adjustment is tactile and highly accurate. It helps you return to zero easily.
The scope also features a parallax elimination setting for enhanced long-range accuracy and a fiber optic rotation indicator which helps you keep track of your turret positions easily. The reticle is housed on the FFP and it remains clear for optimal viewing and has 10 different intensity levels with off positions between each setting.
The scope is fully waterproof and fogproof so you can use it in any weather conditions. The single-piece main tube is crafted with aircraft-grade aluminum to give hunters a durable platform. Other than that, the scope features an extra-low dispersion glass which increases resolution and color fidelity.
Not only do the optical system allow optimal light transmission but also controls light penetrating the tube. This is very helpful when taking down targets in bright light. The XR fully multi-coated lenses provide optimum light transmission for bright, vivid and sharp images.
The exterior lenses are also coated with an Armortek coating to protect them against dirt, oil and scratches. Overall, this is a great riflescope for close to long-range hunting/shooting scenarios. You can use it for other shooting applications not just prairie dog hunting.
Features
- First focal plane reticle
- Armortek lens coating
- Versatile 2-10x magnification suitable for close to long-range shooting
- Completely waterproof and fog-resistant
- Durable and sturdy aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Lightweight design
- Extra-low dispersion glass
- Fiber optic rotation indicator
- Laser-etched turrets
- Adjustable parallax
- XR fully multi-coated lenses
- RZR zero stop
#6) MEOPTA Optika6 3-18×50 30mm SFP Hunting Riflescope
Meopta is renowned for its world-class optical products. The Optika6 is one of their best scopes for prairie dog hunting. It is highly versatile and suitable for shooting at any distance from short to long-range. Apart from hunting, the scope is suitable for nature observation and competition shooting as well.
This riflescope features 92% light transmission during the day and 90% twilight transmission. This makes it ideal for hunting prairie dogs which are highly active during the day.
All the air-to-glass surfaces feature a proprietary ion-assisted lens multi-coating to eliminate glare and provide bright and vivid image views. The external lenses also feature a Meoshield ion-assisted coating which protects them from scratches and abrasions.
Another impressive feature of the riflescope is the RD illuminated red dot reticle. A third turret controller lets you choose any one of the eight reticle intensity settings depending on the light conditions. The scope also features capped windage and elevation turrets which prevent unwanted adjustments when tracking targets in different terrains.
When it comes to construction, the riflescope boasts heavy-duty aluminum construction which enhances durability, while keeping weight at a minimum. The decent 3.5-inch eye relief makes the scope comfortable on your eyes and protects them from heavy recoil rifles.
Features
- Multi-purpose application
- Capped turrets
- RD illuminated red dot reticle
- Finger adjustable windage and elevation turrets
- Meobright lens multi-coating
- Multi-position power ring throw lever
- Meoshield ion-assisted coating
- Generous eye relief
- High-quality images at different lighting conditions
#7) NIGHTFORCE SHV 5-20×56 Scope
The NIGHTFORCE SHV 5-20×56 Scope is a high-powered scope suitable for both close and long-range hunting. The scope is designed to offer maximum versatility. You can use it for target shooting, big game hunting, varmint shooting, pest control, or all of the above.
The scope features a whole 80MOA of elevation adjustment and a ZeroSet technology which helps you return to your initial zero setting easily regardless of the number of elevations you have made. You can easily eliminate parallax from 25 yards to infinity using the side parallax adjustment and enhance your long-range shooting accuracy.
The scope is available in two reticles; Forceplex and MOAR-20 MOA center illuminated reticle which lights up the image for accurate shot placement regardless of what time of the day it is.
The two reticles deliver clear, crisp and color-accurate image views at every magnification setting. The 3.6 eye relief is long enough to provide comfortable target views and keep your eyes safe from heavy-recoil rifles.
Like any other Nightforce scope, the SHV is built to last. It is durably made to stand up to the harshest and most rugged hunting environments. Plus, it is fully waterproof, fogproof and shockproof hence you can use it even in the most extreme weather conditions.
The scope also brings to the table a black matte finish to reduce glare when hunting during the day and help camouflage your shooting position.
Features
- Fully multi-coated optical coatings
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- 30mm main-tube diameter
- Versatile 5-20x magnification
- MOAR-20 MOA center illumination reticle
- Black matte finish
- Illuminated reticle for better accuracy
- Parallax adjustment from 25 yards to infinity
- Triple-duty scope suitable for shooting, hunting, and varmint control
- Glass-etched SSF reticle
- Made in the USA
- ZeroSet for fast return to zero
- Generous eye relief
- Positive-click finger adjustable turrets
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Best Scopes for Prairie Dog Hunting Buying Guide & FAQs
Criteria for Choosing the Best Scopes for Prairie Dog Hunting
Whether you are buying your first scope for prairie dog hunting or just an upgrade, here are some of the key factors you should consider to make the right buying decision.
Magnification
Your ideal magnification power largely depends on your intended shooting range. A scope with 1-9x magnification will suffice for close to mid-range shots. However, if you’ll be shooting prairies over several hundred yards at open fields, you’ll need a scope with high magnification.
Another factor that determines magnification is personal preference. Some seasoned hunters prefer using the 4x-14x magnification. This is because it’s great for both close and long-range shots. So, make sure that the scope you choose has the right magnification for the job.
Price
How much you intend to spend plays a big role in the scope that you should choose. If you are on a budget, you would want to choose a scope that’s quality yet affordable. Luckily, there are plenty of budget-friendly scopes that offer the best value for money.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a scope with high-quality features, it can be costlier. However, you’ll get more features and better performance if you invest in such a scope.
Reticle
The other important factor you should consider is the reticle. Different scopes have different reticles. While some manufacturers recommend that the best scope for prairie dog hunting is one that’s tuned to automatically load the bullet, this isn’t always the case.
The majority of seasoned hunters prefer the simplex duplex reticle because it’s easy to read and very clear. So, look for a scope with a reticle that you are most comfortable with.
Image Quality
Go for a scope that’s made with high-quality glass. Such scopes provide the best image clarity and brightness. A scope with high-quality glass will not wash out colors. Instead, it provides bright, crisp, and sharp images full of color contrast.
The glass should also be fully multi-coated to enhance light transmission. Also, make sure that the lenses have an anti-fog feature, so you don’t lose sight in case there is a rapid change in weather conditions.
Eye Relief
Eye relief is the other important feature you should consider when looking for the best scope for prairie dogs. A decent eye relief will help you spot your target quickly and make an accurate shot placement.
A scope with a long eye relief is also important if you shoot with your eyeglasses on, or if you are using a high-recoil hunting rifle. So, try to look for a scope with a good and long eye relief of at least 3.5”.
Durability
Go for a prairie dog hunting scope that’s durably made to stand up to rugged outdoor use. Hunting involves moving from one location to the other as you search for targets. This can be in and out of thick bushes or in open fields.
It also involves bad weather and rough terrain where the scope is subjected to accidental bumps, falls, and scratches. To avoid lens scratching and broken parts, make sure that the scope is durable and sturdy enough to withstand the harshest outdoor conditions.
Weight
Last but certainly not least is weight. Since hunting involves moving from one location to the other as you search for targets, having a lightweight scope is important. Pick a scope that’s lightweight and easy to carry in the field. Besides, the lightweight scope is easy to use, mount and shoot.
See Also
- Best Vortex Binoculars for Hunting
- Best Long-Range Binoculars
- Best Vortex Spotting Scopes
- Best Vortex Scopes for Coyote Hunting
Best Scopes for Prairie Dog Hunting FAQs
Q: How Far Can You Shoot a Prairie Dog?
A: Generally, the shooting distance of prairie dogs ranges from 200 to 400 yards. However, this range can increase so you’ll need a high-quality scope that provides accurate image views at such range. Apart from owning a high-quality scope, make sure that scope is easy to zero in at the correct range as it is key for greater accuracy.
Q: What’s the Best Time to Hunt Prairie Dogs?
A: The best time to hunt prairie dogs is during the day. They are mainly active during the day only when the sun is out. In most states and provinces, hunting prairie dogs can take place all year round. However, you’ll find more prairie dogs to hunt during spring and summer.
Q: Is it Legal to Hunt Prairie Dogs?
A: Yes. Prairie dogs can be hunted across the states and there are no legal restrictions. While some people hunt prairie dogs to develop their skills or as a recreational activity, some hunt them to control their population. Prairie dogs are classified as pests and they can damage the crops if their population isn’t controlled.
Conclusion
We hope that this post has given you some insight into the best scopes for prairie dog hunting. Having the right scope is important if you want to have a successful hunting experience. Use our guide above and get yourself the ideal scope this hunting season.