A good rifle scope can be easily termed as the consort of any serious shooter and one with great side focus features makes an even better companion. Side focus scopes have a parallax adjustment where turrets are on the left side of the main tube. This adjustment makes it easy to focus when you have to keep adjusting the parallax every time you need to take a shot.
If you are big on tactical shooting, you will need a side focus scope on your rifle. Side focus rifle scopes are usually bulkier than those with adjustable objective parallax settings and also price-wise they could have you chuck out some extra cash.
However, you will need them if at all you are to eliminate parallax errors. If you are looking for a good deal on a side focus rifle scope, here are some great starting points
1) Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44mm Side Focus Riflescope
Get you a Leupold rifle scope and get to experience quality at its best. Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44mm Side Focus Riflescope first strikes your eye with its appealing matte finish.
Once you look through the lens there is no going back as it features the Leupold Professional-Grade System that offers excellent light transmission and is focused on glare reduction for crisp clear images.
A 5:1 zoom ratio gives you a wide magnification range so you can play about with that setting to fit the need for a given range. The side focus nit of it allows you to narrow down on the target object through parallax adjustment every time you are focusing on different ranges.
Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44mm Side Focus Riflescope features the reticle on the second focal plane that ensures the reticle retains its size as the image changes in size whenever you switch magnification levels. This rifle scope also has a zero lock dial to prevent accidental dial-in by movement.
Features
- Second focal plane reticle type
- 5:1 zoom ratio
- Has no adjustable objective
- Objective lens diameter of 44mm
- 7-3.8 eye relief
- Weighs 19.7oz
- Contains lock-in dial
- Durable matte finish
- Focused on glare reduction for sharp images in different light conditions
2) Leupold VX-5HD 7-35x56mm Riflescope
Next on best side focus rifle scopes is yet another Leupold scope, the Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44mm Side Focus Riflescope with a variable magnification of 7x minimum and 35x maximum.
For clarity, the huge magnification range is supported by Leupold’s Twilight Max HD Light management system that gives an edge-to-edge clear image, reduces glare up to 90%, and delivers 30 minutes of extra light when shooting at dusk or dawn.
Use it on tough terrain and still it will not budge to pressure as it is made of strong aluminum and scratch-resistant lens glass. It’s strong build also makes it tough on recoil or impact.
The fact that it has guard-ion protection against dust and water is a plus. Fast focus eyepiece brings reticle into focus and you can take down your target effortlessly.
Aside from the zero-lock system in this scope, motion sensor tech sees to it that battery life is extended. For a lifetime of good performance, the Leupold VX-5HD 7-35x56mm Side Focus Riflescope has gone through Leupold’s punisher test to guarantee its superior ruggedness.
Features
- Objective lens diameter 56mm
- 7-35x magnification range
- Tube diameter of 34mm
- 1-16.3 ft Field of View at 100 yards
- 7-3.8 eye relief
- Weighs 25.9oz
- 6 inches long
- Fire dot illumination in low light conditions
- W/E range at 100 yards stands at 40MOA
- The adjustment range is at 95 MOA
Pros
- Fog, water, and shockproof
- Superior ruggedness
- Excellent anti-glare reduction
- Edge-to-edge clarity on images
- Extended battery life through the use of Motion Sensor technology
- Fast-focus eyepiece to bring reticle to focus
- Lightweight construction
- Features zero lock system to prevent accidental dial adjustment
Cons
- Too much scope for a shooter used to lower magnification ranges
3) Bushnell Prime 3-12x40mm Rifle Scope
Bushnell Prime 3-12x40mm Rifle Scope will exceed your expectations from its Exclusive Exo Barrier technology that repels dust and water to its fully multicoated lens that improves light transmission for clear images.
Alongside the Exo Barrier technology, the riflescope has an IPX7 coating that makes it waterproof. This rifle scope has 7 turrets to achieve perfection in shots for different distances and on different magnification ranges.
The side focus adjustment works for 10 yards to infinity. The multi-x reticle found on the second focal plane ensures you get a good aim on target at any time of the day.
Since shooting involves moving about trying to close in on targets, this Bushnell riflescope is lightweight and has a black matte finish on the exterior. The multi-turret feature combined with a wide magnification range is best suited for the mid and long-range shooter.
Features
- Eye relief: 3.5 inches
- Length: 12inches
- Weight: 19oz
- Tube diameter: 1 inch
- Side focus parallax adjustment: 10 yards to infinity
- Magnification& Objective Lens: 3-12x, 40mm
Pros
- Fully multi-coated lens for clear images
- Exo Barrier Tech for dust and IPX7 coat for resistance against water
- Multi-turret with adjustments that fit the different levels of magnification for shooting from different ranges
- Compact build and is lightweight
- Comes with turret caps to maintain turret position in bumpy areas
- The Multi-X reticle in the second focal plane for accuracy at any time of day or night
Cons
- The magnification ring may be a little stiff to turn especially during low temperatures
4) Hammers 4-16×50 Side Focus FFP Rifle Scope
Optically, Hammers 4-16×50 Side Focus FFP Long Range Target Shooting Rifle Scope has several features that make it fit the description of what is considered a best side focus rifle scope. One of these features is the ability to easily reach and set the side focus wheel with parallax adjustment of 12 yards to infinity.
For perfect aim, always set the side focus dials from the infinity point especially when you are shifting from close to long-range shooting. First focal plane reticle placement maintains the point of impact never shifts despite changing magnification.
The illuminated reticle is etched in glass making it practically indestructible and you will find flip-open lens covers for enhanced protection of the reticle. Lockable target turret knobs included in the architecture of this rifle scope keep dialed in adjustments in place even during accidental movement. Durable scope rings that support Picatinny rails enabling quick mounting and height adjustment.
Features
- Magnification range: 4-16x
- Tube diameter: 30mm
- FOV 24.6-6.3” at 100 yards
- Eye relief: 4inches
- Length: 14 inches
- Weight: 30oz
- Side focus parallax adjustment: 12 yards to infinity
Pros
- Glass-etched reticle with flip-open lens covers for durability and reliable reticle performance
- Illuminated reticle for good aim at dawn or dusk
- Lockable target turrets to keep dial-ins in position
- Durable scope rings that allow Picatinny rail mounting
- Easy to reach side focus wheel
- Ideal for tactical shooting
- Audible clicks
- Fairly priced
Cons
- Might not withstand the recoil of some firearms
5) Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical Riflescopes
Vortex Optics has long been a producer of the best rifle scopes and this one, in particular, does not disappoint and soon you end up becoming the crack shot you have always wanted to be. Aluminum is known for its strength and it brings tough resistance against harsh hunting grounds, impact, and recoils.
Tactical turrets for windage and elevation correction have the zero-reset configuration to go back to zero very fast. To complete on the external is a hard-anodized finish that boosts strength and enables blending into the environment for camouflage.
Looking at the optics, you find extra-low dispersion glass that is fully multicoated on all air-to-glass surfaces for maximum light absorption to get clear images.
A raised rib on the magnification ring enables quick magnification adjustments when you need to switch up depending on the range. Magnification on this series of rifle scopes comes in 4-16×44 and 6-24×50 dimensions. Reticle orientation is on the first focal plane with EBR-2C MOA and MRAD style that supports long-range shooting.
Side focus is enhanced by the parallax knob that allows adjustment from 20 yards to infinity. Internal construction is made of the precision-glide erector system for a smooth transition between magnifications and precision-force spring system to support repeated use of the erector system. This ruggedly built rifle scope is water, fog, and shockproof thanks to the nitrogen-purged and O-ring seal technology.
Features
- Comes in 4-16×44 and 6-24×50 models
- Parallax setting: 20yards to infinity
- Reticle style: EBR-2C MOA and MRAD
- 30mm piece tube
- 1×9.1×9.1 dimension
Pros
- Firm aluminum construction
- Zero-reset exposed turrets for windage and elevation adjustment
- Low-dispersion fully multicoated lens
- Ruggedly built to withstand recoil and impact
- Nitrogen purge and O-ring seal technology for waterproof and fog-free performance
- Smooth transition between magnification settings enabled by precision-glide erector system and magnification rib
- Fast focus eyepiece for quick reticle focus
Cons
- The extremely fine crosshairs may prove difficult to locate when magnification is at a low setting
6) Athlon Optics Talos 4-16×40 SFP Riflescopes
The list of best side focus rifle scopes is never quite complete without the mention of the Talos from Athlon Optics. For a reasonable price, you get generous eye relief paired with BDC 600IR or Mil-Dot reticle for precision and accurate range estimation.
Not only are turrets capped but the reticles are glass etched so protection to guarantee long-life performance is a sure thing with these rifle scopes. The lens is fully multicoated for clear images despite the magnification setting.
Heat-treated aircraft-grade aluminum creates a great front against recoils. The riflescope is waterproof for comfortable use even in the rainy season and the optics inside remain protected through nitrogen purge.
Features
- Tube Diameter: 1 inch
- FOV: 24.1-6.3 at 100 yards
- Eye relief: 3.8-3.35
- Length: 12.9
- Weight:19.1oz
Pros
- Indestructible glass etched reticle
- Forgiving eye relief
- Fully multi-coated lens for clarity on visuals
- Can be used in short and long-range shooting
- Capped turrets
Cons
- Allows only use of short and medium height mounting rings
7) Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope with Truplex Reticle
Lastly on the list of the best side focus rifle scopes is the Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope with Truplex Reticle that boasts of patented TrueZero System that assures users that elevation and windage remain in at zero during aiming and shooting.
The Simmons 8-point scope has a triplex reticle that features tiny dots at crosshair intersections for spot-on aim. Optics include a fully multicoated lens for sharp images. Hydroshield coating on the lens also enhances all-weather performance.
For effortless adjustment, this side focus rifle scope has a sure grip rubber surface for ¼ audible MOA click adjustments. Additionally, a Quick Target Acquisition eyepiece is provided for quick shots on target. A black matte finish crowns the exterior of this low-priced rifle scope.
Features
- 3-9x magnification with 50mm objective lens diameter
- 3.75 inches of eye relief
- FOV 31.4-10.5 at 100yards
- 1/4MOA audible clicks
- Parallax setting at 100 yards
- 2 ounces
Pros
- Triplex reticle for increased accuracy
- Hydroshield lens coating for excellent all-weather performance
- Sure-grip rubber surface for comfortable use and adjustment
- Patented true zero lock system for reliable turret adjustments
- Black matte finish to enhance strength
- Fully coated lens for sharp images
- Great value at a low price
Cons
- Does not come with mounting rings
See Also
Best Side Focus Riflescopes Buying Guide & FAQs
Factors to Consider when Choosing a Side Focus Scope
To choose to settle on a side focus riflescope translates to going for only the best you can find otherwise poor choices will see you go back to the market earlier than you anticipated. What to pick as the best side focus rifle scope should feature some of these properties
Parallax Adjustment
Correcting parallax reduces inaccuracies when shooting. A good rifle scope should have the inclusion of this feature. It should also be easily accessible and be one that allows swift adjustment between different magnification ranges. Being ignorant on parallax adjustment is robbing yourself of clean shots on target.
Magnification
Yes, we need the side focus but of what use is a scope without magnification? Go for a scope with magnification ranges that fit your needs. Magnification is usually presented as fixed or variable, the latter being the most popular in the riflescope market.
Turrets
A great addition they make to any rifle scope and without them getting the correct windage or elevation adjustment is almost impossible. They are either exposed or capped.
Capped turrets appeal to shooters who only adjust once for windage and elevation as they zero their rifle but hunters focused on shooting at moving targets find the exposed-style turrets a helpful tool.
Focal Plane
Focal planes are largely classified into two; the first and second focal planes. The location of the reticle on any of these planes is critical in any shooting event. There is much debate on which gives a better shot but at the end of the day, we agree that it is down to personal preferences.
The difference between the two is that in the first focal plane the reticle moves relative to the magnification range. That is, as magnification increases so do the reticle size and vice versa. In the second focal plane, the reticle retains its size no matter the level of magnification set. Always go the rifle scope you feel comfortable working with in regards to focal planes.
Read: Rifle Scopes for 200 Yards
What are the Three Adjustments on a Scope? (Elevation, Windage and Parallax)
These three adjustments are part of the scope anatomy and each has its role to play. The top knob is for elevation adjustment that is how high or low your shot is going to be. The next knob is for windage and from the sound of it, you already know it is the obstruction from the wind that this adjustment is looking to eliminate.
Windage adjustment helps estimate how far to the left or the right the shot is going to move. Together, these two adjustments help shooters match their aim to the crosshairs. Lastly, you have the parallax that helps with matching the reticle and the target on a similar focal plane for increased accuracy.
From our summary on features of best side focus rifle scopes, you notice continued mention of side focus parallax adjustment whose configuration is the base for any good side focus rifle scope. To make you understand the importance of this feature we beg to answer this important question.
Read: Best Riflescopes for Hunting
What is a Side Focus Parallax Adjustment?
Side focus parallax adjustment is the change you need to make using the third knob on the left side of the tube to eliminate what you might see through the lens as a shaky or floating reticle. You might even get tempted to think moving your head is causing the movement but it is the reticle not being incorrect position.
Side focus parallax adjustment allows you to have the reticle placed in the correct focal plane before you can go for the trigger. For long-range parallax is notorious for making even people with gun prowess miss their shots. For shooters with little knowledge of parallax adjustment, the addition of that knob on rifle scopes renders it somewhat useless.
Read: Best Rifle Scopes for 400 Yards
What is the Purpose of Side Focus on a Scope?
Missing shots is not fun especially when you have been practicing for a long period. Probably the giant you are yet to gun down is the parallax error. That is where side focus comes in.
Side focus on scopes is important in hunting or tactical shooting where distance is not known or where you need to keep changing range several times without having to move the focus off of your target.
Best Side Focus Rifle Scopes FAQs
Q: Is side focus the Same as Parallax?
To some extent yes but all in all no matter the definition they give the desired result, aligning the reticle and target on the same focal plane.
Q: Do I Need Parallax Adjustment?
Yes, especially if your focus is on high magnification shooting because this is where parallax errors are notorious, though any shooter who wants to perfect their skill will always have an edge when making adjustments for parallax.
Conclusion
Shooting is fun and life is too short to be making inaccurate shots so why not up to your game with a rifle scope designed with great side focus? Try any of these top contenders today and experience an all-new shooting experience.