Are you searching for a varmint scope awaiting the upcoming hunting season? You are in the right place. In today’s post, we will be looking at the best scopes for varmint hunting and all the important details you need to know to make your varmint hunting experience like no other.
Varmint hunting is a thrilling activity. Nothing compares to a day spent hunting varmints. The adrenaline rush from shooting moving targets makes the sport full of excitement. Hunting of varmints is a widely practiced activity in many parts.
Besides, the fun-filled adventure of pursuing a game, the activity is necessary as it helps check the pest populations. This helps prevent the destruction of crops and property.
There are several calibers used in varmint hunting but one thing is constant among these calibers; quality optics. Paring your hunting rifle with one of the best scopes for Varmint hunting makes the whole different while in the field.
What Makes a Great Varmint Scope?
Attributes of a great varmint scope should match those of an excellent predator scope. A great Varmint scope is that gets the job done regardless of the weather conditions. Riflescopes with night vision capability are a bonus as they will help you take down the nocturnal varmints.
Besides, the best varmint scope should perform exceptionally well in low-light. Scopes whose optics are built of multi-coated lenses have optimal light transmission and regulate light through the scope resulting in bright and sharp images. The dawn and dusk varmint hunting will be easier when armed with such a scope.
Another feature that defines a great varmint scope is quality construction. Some of the calibers used to take down varmints produce significant recoil and a flimsy scope may not withstand the abuse. The best scopes for varmint hunting should be ruggedly constructed to tolerate recoil and impacts from accidental drops.
Furthermore, a great varmint should be waterproof and fog proof. At the end of the day, you want a durable scope whose performance doesn’t waver no matter the prevailing weather conditions.
7 Best Scopes for Varmint Hunting
The search for the best varmint scope can be an uphill task, especially for first-time buyers. To help you land the best unit, we have combed through the market and come up with a selection of the best scopes for varmint hunting worth your consideration. Without further ado, let’s have a look at them!
#1) Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33 Riflescope
Leupold optics are some of the best in the world. The VX-Freedom ranks among the best predator scopes in the market. As one of the best scopes for varmint hunting, this riflescope excels in close-quarters and mid-range shooting situations. What we love the most about this riflescope is that it is mission-specific. For those who enjoy plinking, this is the scope to make your day more special.
The quality optical system cements the scope’s name as the best varmint scope. The VX-Freedom advanced optics features superior glass construction to allow optimal light transmission resulting in the crispest images.
Integrated into the optical system are glare reduction elements to enhance resolution and color fidelity. Solid construction is another highlight to admire about the VX-Freedom. The tube features solid construction that is both waterproof and fogproof.
Even in the harshest weather, this riflescope will not disappoint. To keep the internal components working efficiently, the scope is shockproof. Impacts from recoil and falls will not interfere with the functioning of the scope.
The reticle on this scope is on the second focal plane. This means that the crosshairs remain static across all the magnification levels. This is a great incentive when hunting varmints in lowlight environments.
When you combine this and the superior optical system, you get an ideal riflescope for dawn and dusk varmint hunting. There is no doubt in anyone’s mind that the VX-Freedom is one of the best scopes for varmint hunting.
Features
- 3:1 zoom ratio to accommodate several shooting situations
- Best-in-class optical system delivers sharp images
- The lenses are protected by hardened surface coatings
- SFP reticle
- Shockproof, waterproof and fogproof
- Thinner hash marks for rimfire-specific targets
- Matte finish
#2) Tasco Target/Varmit 6-24x42mm Riflescope
For those looking for a budget-friendly varmint hunting scope, look no further than the Tasco Varmint 6-24x43mm riflescope. The large magnification range makes it ideal for long-range shooting and long-distance sighting. Being a varmint-specific optic, the riflescope delivers exceptional performance and value at the same time.
At an attractive price tag, the riflescope delivers image clarity seen in high-end riflescopes. This is made possible by the quality multi-coated optics that enhance maximum light transmission. When hunting small-sized varmints, you can dial up to high magnification for up-close seeing of the targets.
Another notable attribute of the Tasco varmint scope is quality construction. The main tube has a rugged design that is waterproof and fogproof so moisture and other weather elements do not impede your plinking.
Even when the weather is unfavorable, you can trust this riflescope to get the job done. Furthermore, the scope is shockproof to ensure uninterrupted many years of use.
Features
- Multicoated optics for optimal light transmission
- An adjustable objective for parallax removal
- Mil-Dot reticle
- Rugged main tube
- Wide magnification range for long-range shooting
#3) Burris Scout Rifle Scope Ballistic Plex Riflescope
This is an all-around riflescope ideal for varmint hunting. The scope integrates a ballistic duplex crosshair that facilitates quick target acquisition. This reticle has thick posts that make it easy to see varmints in low light.
The low-profile design and the decent magnification make the scope perfect for stalking and shooting predators at mid-range. Value for your money and dependability make Burris Scout riflescope a front-runner among the best scopes for Varmint hunting.
Burris 2-7×32 Scout riflescope has quality optics that optimize light transmission resulting in brighter images. Integrated on the lenses are anti-reflective coatings that minimize light loss further enhancing the clarity of the targets.
A tough construction is another attribute that makes this riflescope rank among the best scopes for Varmint hunting. The main tube is purged with nitrogen conferring waterproof and fog-proof performance.
Features
- Nitrogen-filled for weatherproof performance
- Tough aluminum construction
- Resettable capped turrets
- Rear focal plane reticle (SFP)
- Multi-coated optics for increased brightness and contrast
#4) Vortex Crossfire II 3-12x56mm AO Hog Hunter Riflescope
Avid hunters can attest that Crossfire II Hog Hunter is one of the best scopes for varmint hunting. The riflescope excels in low-light conditions when most varmints are active.
The fully multi-coated optics alongside anti-reflective coatings permit maximum light to pass through leading to bright and sharp images. The low-light performance is also enhanced by the illuminated center dot as it gives the shooter a precise point-of-aim.
Robust construction makes the riflescope a favorite among varmint hunters. The tube is made of durable aluminum. For all-weather performance, the tube is purged with nitrogen gas and the O-ring is sealed to keep moisture out.
Besides, the riflescope is resilient enough to withstand recoil and impacts. A key addition to the riflescope is the adjustable objective which helps in adjusting the lens to enhance accuracy and correct for parallax.
What’s more? The large objective lens and the V-Brite illuminated reticle make target acquisition a breeze. Shooters and hunters alike love the quality of this riflescope.
The versatile 3-12x magnification makes the scope perfect for a variety of shooting scenarios. The Hog Hunter is a true varmint scope and its relentless performance is hard to beat.
Features
- Fully multi-coated optics for image brightness and contrast
- Illuminated reticle for better low-light performance
- Versatile magnification to cater to several shooting scenarios
- Resilient aluminum construction
- Fogproof, shockproof and waterproof
- Adjustable objective for parallax removal and image focusing
- Large objective facilitates optimal light transmission
- Capped reset turrets for quick re-indexing after sighting in
#5) NightForce NXS Tactical 5.5-22x56mm Scope
There is no doubt in anyone’s mind that NightForce riflescopes are some of the best optics for long-range shooting. The NXS tactical scope is one of the best scopes for Varmint hunting for those who shoot from a far distance. This riflescope packs several impressive features that will elevate how you hunt varmints.
The riflescope stands out among the best varmint scopes because it performs excellently in low light. Varmints such as wild hogs and coyotes come out in low light and the NXS will be a great companion to bring them down.
Image clarity across all magnification ranges is to die for. The NXS scope excels in both close-range shooting and distant shooting. The extra-wide objective lens allows maximum light penetration and offers a large field view even at the higher power setting. As a result, you will see even the smallest of the predators from far. This is the champion of long-range varmint scopes.
The impeccable optics are packed on a 30mm tube allowing greater internal adjustments for enhanced visual performance. The rugged durability adds to the strength and weatherproof abilities of the scope.
The other thing to like about this riflescope is the ease of use. The scope is fitted with Hi-Speed turrets that help the shooter achieve elevation with fewer clicks. Less tedious and more practical.
Features
- Large objective lens for optimal light transmission
- The durable construction of high-quality materials
- 30 mm main tube enhances internal range adjustments and visual performance
- HI-Speed turret system enhances the practicality of the scope
- Glass-etched and illuminated SFP reticle
- Fully waterproof, shockproof and fogproof
- Versatile magnification for close-range to long-range shooting
- Integrated eyepiece and power ring system
#6) ATN X-Sight LTV Ultra-Light Day & Night Vision Rifle Scope
The ATN X-Sight LTV riflescope will get you on the varmint during the light of day or the dead of night. The unrivaled versatility coupled with relentless performance makes the riflescope ranks highly among the best scopes for varmint hunting.
This riflescope can be mounted on a hunting rifle or even a crossbow. Its incredibly low weight makes it perfect for hunting expeditions. Whether is for pest control like varmint hunting, scouting, or big game hunting, the X-Sight LTV riflescopes give you the upper hand when low light sets in.
Another reason that makes this scope one of the best scopes for varmint hunting is its incredible performance. Night vision capability isn’t the only highlight of the scope.
Being a digital scope means it performs well both during the day and at night. The recording feature allows hunters to record every moment in the field and share it with friends and loved ones.
The riflescope features a refined construction that enhances compatibility with hunting rifles. The slim-fitting body makes this scope a great replacement for your traditional daytime scope. It is also built to the best standards available. It can withstand recoil from rifles so you trust it will serve you for many years.
Features
- QHD+ sensor delivers sharp images irrespective of the distance
- Night vision mode for faster target acquisition in complete darkness
- Video recording feature to capture the thrill in the field
- Refined slim design fits many hunting rifles and crossbows
- Lightweight construction
- Magnification of 3-9x
- 90mm of eye relief
- A battery that can last up to 10 hours
#7) Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 3-15×44 FFP Riflescope
This is another excellent optic for taking down varmints. As one of the best scopes for varmint hunting, Viper PST Gen II hosts exceptional features only seen in high-end riflescopes.
With this scope, you are bound to have a time of your life hunting predators. The large field of view coupled to the 5x optical system expedites rapid target acquisition which comes in handy when hunting elusive varmints like coyotes.
The incredible performance of this scope is supported by the best-in-class optical system. PST Gen II optics incorporate lens coatings that not only increase light transmission but also control light through the tube maintaining clarity any time of day.
The XD glass enhances resolution and color fidelity resulting in crisp images of the targets. Most varmints are active when in dim lighting conditions and the illuminated reticle offers precise aiming when hunting in low light.
The other facet that cements PST Gen II name among the best scopes for varmint hunting is solid construction. A single-piece tube design maximizes the internal adjustment range to boost accuracy and visual performance. O-ring seals and argon gas purging ensure reliable performance by making the scope weatherproof.
Features
- Integrated illumination dial for smooth performance
- XD glass enhanced resolution and color fidelity
- Fully multicoated to maximize light transmission
- Illuminated reticle for better performance in low light
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof for long-term use
- Glass-etched reticle for accurate holdover and windage corrections
Related Posts
- Best Vortex Varmint Scopes
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- Scopes for Prairie Dog Hunting
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Best Scopes for Varmint Hunting Buying Guide
Considerations When Buying Best Varmint Scopes
Since the market is flooded with scopes that quality to be predator scopes, choosing the best scopes for varmint hunting can be overwhelming. Here are some of the key factors to keep in mind when looking for a riflescope to use in varmint hunting.
Compatibility with your Rifle
Varmint hunters use several rifles to take down the pests. From lightweight rimfire rifles, shotguns to bolt-action rifles. Regardless of your rifle, an excellent optic compliments the shooting prowess of your air rifle.
If your rifle can shoot beyond 300 yards, the best varmint scope is one with greater power. At this distance, you need a riflescope with long-range precision to take a killer shot.
Another key addition to your gear is a rifle tripod. It will give you extra stability when taking long-distance shots. If you use your rifle for plinking in thick woods, the best varmint scope for you is one with lower power. Too much power for such close-range shooting is overkill and will hinder your performance.
Low-Light Performance
The majority of the varmints invade when it’s dark or during the hours of dawn and dusk. In both of these situations, light is a concern, and therefore varmint hunting demands optics with unparalleled low-light performance.
The best scopes for varmint hunting should have large objective lenses and lens coatings. A larger diameter allows light to penetrate through the tube resulting in brighter images at any time. Fully multi-coated optics help improve the resolution and maintain color fidelity.
Another key component of low-light scopes is the illuminated reticle. When the surrounding light isn’t favorable, an illuminated reticle helps provide an exact point of aim increasing the chances of taking a killer shot. Besides, it helps relieve eye strain when taking low-light shots. In the dark, the right optic should have night vision capability.
Read: Best Low Light Scopes
Durability
The build quality of a varmint scope should be exceptional. The first indicator of a resilient scope is quality materials. Scopes made of aircraft-grade aluminum are durable and of exceptional strength.
Aluminum is a light metal and so you get a lightweight unit that can take any form of abuse thrown at it while in the field. The lightweight nature is also a big incentive while hunting as you don’t have to worry about the scope weighing down on your rifle.
Riflescopes purged with gases such as nitrogen and argon also last for many years. Besides, they will be waterproof and fog proof making them reliable in all weather conditions.
Shockproof is the other important highlight of a varmint scope. Some of the calibers used in varmint hunting produce recoil and only a tough scope will maintain its structural integrity from the punishment.
Reticle
When looking for a great varmint scope, the choice of the reticle will be guided by your style of shooting. If you plan on hunting varmints from a far distance, opt for an extremely accurate BDC reticle.
If you will be working in low light, an illuminated reticle is necessary. All the available reticles are effective but your preference is the determining factor. Any shooter is will shoot more effectively when using an easy-to-use reticle that one is comfortable with.
Optics Quality
The quality of glass used on the lenses plays an important role when it comes to visual performance. The best varmint scopes should have lenses made of quality glass.
With quality glass, you can see targets clearly and a lot further. Glasses with scratch-resistant coatings are also a big welcome because they ensure many years of unobstructed views.
Read: Best Scopes for Hog Hunting
Which is the Best Magnification for Varmint Hunting?
There is no one-size-fits-all magnification for hunting varmints. The magnification will depend on your hunting goals. If your hunting requires long-range accuracy, the best varmint scope for you is one with a higher power. From 14x-20x is considered excellent to shoot far targets.
If you plan to eliminate the varmints from close quarters, there is no need of investing in scopes with magnification you will never use. Magnification of up to 4x will get the job done in close-range shooting situations.
At 4x, you will be able to spot varmints easily and take the killer shot. For medium-range shooting situations, a power of 4x to 14x will suffice.
Conclusion
Varmints pose a danger to livestock, crops, and humans due to their destructive nature. Hunting of varmints helps keep their population in check. If you are planning to head out and take down these predators, we have highlighted the best scopes for varmint hunting that will make a happy hunting. Which varmint scope will you try first?