Taking down distant targets can be intimidating without the right gear. Long-range deer hunting scopes help keep the aim dead on for accurate shots every time. Hunters are now able to place ethical shots at distances once thought practically impossible.
Perhaps you are looking for a deer hunting scope in readiness for the upcoming season and you aren’t sure what scope is ideal for your hunting needs. We have probed the market and come up with a catalog of the best long-range deer hunting scopes.
The best long-range deer hunting scopes combine versatile magnification, crisp reticle and fast controls to optimize precision at a distance. As the optics industry continues to evolve, manufacturers have come up with a multitude of scopes to meet the needs of hunters all over.
These scopes are unique in terms of features and specs so it is important to find a model that will work best for your hunting needs.
What Makes a Great Deer Hunting Scope?
The best long-range deer hunting scopes are made up of a range of different features. The first one is powerful magnification. You need a scope that has powerful zoom power to bring distant targets closer and help with accurate target acquisition.
Secondly, the scope must have a crisp reticle that stays accurate all through. If you prefer to hunt deer in the less ideal lighting conditions of dawn and dusk, you need a scope that has an illuminated reticle.
Furthermore, the hunting scope should be durable enough to stand up to the battering of everyday use and hold zero during extended hunting sessions. On top of that, the optical tube should be fully waterproof, dustproof and fogproof.
Finally, a great deer hunting scope should be lightweight for easy maneuverability in the field. You don’t want a rifle scope that adds unnecessary weight to your hunting gear.
8 Best Long-Range Deer Hunting Scopes
While there is a sea of long-range rifle scopes on the market, not all are ideal for deer hunting. We have done our research and created a list of the very best models that make an invaluable sighting unit for avid deer hunters.
Without any further delays, let’s take a look.
1) ATN X-Sight 4K Pro 3-14x Rifle Scope
The ATN X-Sight 4K Pro 3-14x Ultra HD is an easy-to-use scope that is ideal for hunting in any situation making it a prime choice for deer hunters. Getting this high-quality day/night hunting rifle scope for deer hunting will revolutionize all your hunting and make you a better hunter.
With the dual day and night functionality, this scope gives you the flexibility to go hunting any time you want. It provides stunningly bright and clear image views in all these lighting conditions to ensure accurate target identification. On top of that, the scope has a smart rangefinder for eliminating guesswork on range estimation.
As one of the best long-range deer hunting scopes, this optic is built with durability in mind. It is built out of high-strength aluminum alloy to take in any punishment. Additionally, the scope has impact-resistant optics to withstand the pressure of high-caliber weapons.
The other noteworthy features included are One Shot Zero technology, a ballistic calculator, and a smart Mil-Dot reticle. Use this ATN day/night hunting scope to gain a crystal clear visual on your prey any time of day or night.
Features
- Dual stream video
- Recoil and impact-resistant electronics
- Shockproof, fog proof and water-resistant
- 60Hz refresh rate
- Ruggedized aluminum construction
- 30mm body tube
- Green phosphor image intensifier
Pros
- Day and night functionality
- Solid and sturdy construction
- Reliable and accurate
- Good quality images
Cons
- Poor quality scope rings so you need to buy a better mount
- Requires firmware updates for seamless performance.
2) Vortex Crossfire II AO 4-12x50mm SFP Rifle Scope
In the field of optics, Vortex is a highly respected brand. It is known for its top-tier optics and the Crossfire II AO 4-12x50mm Rifle Scope is not any different. This budget-friendly optic is packed with a multitude of features that make it an ideal choice for hunting.
The scope excels in all hunting applications mounting this rifle scope on your hunting rifle means you have a fast and accurate long-range shooting solution in your hands. Hunting in the magical hours will no longer be the same again.
The 4-12x variable zoom magnification of this scope makes it great for deer hunting pursuits in any environment. It not only gets you closer to the faraway targets but also maintains a field of view that is large enough to ensure easy monitoring of the game as they move.
Furthermore, this rifle scope has a single-piece tube made from aircraft-grade aluminum. It is sturdy enough to take in the beating yet lightweight for ease of maneuverability. Other than that, the scope has capped turrets that are less vulnerable to impacts. It is also 100% waterproof, fogproof and shockproof.
Optically, the Crossfire II AO 4-12x50mm has fully multi-coated optics which allow for greater light transmission. Over and above that, it comes with an adjustable objective lens that you use to fine-tune its focus and eliminate parallax.
Speedy target acquisition, parallax-free sighting, durable construction, brilliant low-light performance and weatherproof performance are the main attributes that make the Crossfire II AO 4-12x50mm stand out as one of the best long-range deer hunting scopes.
Features
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Dead-Hold BDC second focal plane reticle
- Hard anodized finish
- Adjustable objective lens
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Aircraft-grade aluminum housing
- 1-inch tube diameter
Pros
- Lightweight yet sturdy
- Good eye relief
- Crystal clear optics
- Great value for money
Cons
- Non illuminated reticle
3) Trijicon Tenmile TM1844 3-18x44mm FFP Rifle Scope
Trijicon Tenmile TM1844 is your ideal option if you want to take your hunting skills to the next high level. It incorporates top-tier optical elements and a vast 3-18x magnification range for use at close to long ranges.
The tools you need to excel in long-range shooting are in your hands when you mount the Tenmile HX on your hunting rifle. Brilliant optical quality and illuminated hunting reticle come in handy for twilight and dawn hunting purposes.
This 30mm tube scope is built to last. It is constructed of 6061 aluminum and features a black anti-glare finish to camouflage your shooting position in broad daylight. Furthermore, the scope is built with a repositionable throw lever for seamless magnification adjustments.
To complement the solid construction, this rifle scope has fully multi-coated glass elements that are responsible for ensuring high-light transmission. As a result, you are guaranteed true detail and color even in low-light hunting environments.
Furthermore, the scope has a precision tree-illuminated reticle housed on the front focal plane. It also brings to the table an easily accessible side focus parallax knob and exposed turrets with zero stop for repeatable precision.
Features
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Exposed zero-stop turrets
- 30mm main tube
- MRAD precision tree reticle
- 1 MRAD impact point correction
- 3-18x magnification range
- Repositionable magnification throw lever
Pros
- Illuminated reticle
- Superb low-light visibility
- Unmatched long-range accuracy
- Quick and easy adjustments
Cons
- Pricey
4) Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25x56mm 34mm FFP Rifle Scope
As one of the best long-range deer hunting scopes, the Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25x56mm brings you all the features you need to take down targets with outstanding efficiency no matter the distance. It is simple to use and good for hunting in all lighting and weather conditions.
The selling point of this rifle scope is low light visibility. Thanks to the oversized 56mm objective lens, it maximizes low-light performance by gathering as much light as possible. Besides, the lenses are fully multi-coated to boost light transmission and prevent internal light reflection.
With an eye relief of 3.7”, the scope allows comfortable glassing with or without eyeglasses. Furthermore, the reticle is put on the first focal plane and is illuminated to ensure great visibility in low-light conditions. The scope also comes with a fast-focus eyepiece that allows quick and straightforward reticle focusing.
Construction-wise, the Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25x56mm is built on a 34mm main tube to provide maximized internal adjustment and unmatched strength. It also boasts a ruggedized aircraft-grade aluminum body that is fully waterproof and fogproof.
Features
- Fully multi-coated optics
- XD glass elements
- First focal plane reticle
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Side parallax adjustment
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Ultra-hard scratch-resistant coating
- 34mm body tube
Pros
- Good eye relief
- Illuminated reticle
- Clear and bright glass
- Excellent tracking
Cons
- Slightly heavy
- Stiff parallax knob
5) Burris Eliminator IV 4-16x50mm Laser Scope
Step into the future of hunting scope by mounting the Eliminator IV scope on your hunting rifle. Burris has built a name in the world of optics thanks to the outstanding optics it manufactures.
The Eliminator IV LaserScope 4-16x50mm Rifle Scope is one of their innovative manufacturing marvels that will improve your accuracy and efficiency while hunting distant targets.
It gives the acute accuracy that hunters require for long-range hunting. Enhanced sharpness and edge-to-edge lucidity in any hunting environment makes the Burris Eliminator IV 4-16×50 LaserScope a top contender among the best long-range deer hunting scopes.
A defining feature of this rifle scope is the X96 reticle. With this reticle system, it will empower you with even more accuracy at any range. The reticle is efficient for range and windage compensation and has LED illumination to stay visible in poor light conditions.
Another remarkable thing that makes the scope stand out is the built-in rangefinder. The laser range capability of this rangefinder is out to 2,000 yards and 750 yards with reflective targets and non-reflective targets respectively.
Besides that, this rifle scope comes with an integrated inclinometer to help with greater accuracy when you are adjusting for an angle on uphill or downhill shots. While hunting in the backcountry, this rangefinder scope gives you the upper hand to dominate every time.
All these handy features are housed in a 1-inch body tube made from aircraft-grade aluminum. On top of that, the scope is fog proof, waterproof and operable in temperatures ranging from -15 to 122℉.
Features
- Second focal plane reticle
- 1-inch tube
- Hi-Lume multi-coated optics
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- LED illumination
- Adjustable parallax
- Automatic trajectory compensation
- Built-in rangefinder
Pros
- Ergonomic buttons
- Enhanced extreme-range ballistic programming
- Phenomenal accuracy
- Ease of use
Cons
- Expensive
6) Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44mm SFP Rifle Scope
Gracing its presence on our list of the best long-range hunting scopes is the Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44mm. This rifle scope is built ready for hunting with a FireDot reticle that is illuminated to provide a clear point of aim in all light conditions.
The optical performance of this scope is phenomenal. It combines a high-definition optical system and Twilight Max Light Management System to give you a distinct advantage at low light settings of dawn and dusk.
Moreover, the scope is optimized for longevity. It is made out of 6061-T6 aluminum to offer unmatched durability. For all-weather use, this rifle scope is made with modern waterproof and fogproof technology. It also boasts a Guard-ion hydrophobic lens coating that repels water, dirt, and fingerprints for a maintenance-free, crisp image.
To top it all off, the Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44mm SFP Rifle Scope has a custom dial system that you use to customize your adjustment dial to your exact ballistics.
Features
- Professional-grade optical system
- Custom dial system
- Side parallax adjuster
- Waterproof and fogproof
- 30mm body tube
- 6061-T6 aluminum housing
- Second focal plane reticle
Pros
- Excellent clarity
- Sturdy and durable quality
- Lightweight
- Stunning low-light visibility
- Generous eye relief
Cons
- Non-illuminated reticle
7) Vortex Strike Eagle 3-18x44mm FFP Riflescope
Strike Eagle 3-18x44mm FFP Riflescope is another top-quality optic ideal for long-range deer hunting. It is built on a 34mm body tube and has a variable 3-18x magnification power to help you take shots at different ranges with ease.
Vortex scopes are known for their rugged durability and this model is not an exception. It is crafted with aircraft-grade aluminum to ensure great durability and rigidity. It is also fully waterproof and fog-resistant to be ready for anything nature will have in store for your deer hunting trip.
Moreover, this rifle scope has a generous 3.8” eye relief to accommodate all users even those who wear glasses. For added convenience, it comes with a built-in 3” sunshade and integrated throw lever which is essential for easy magnification adjustment. Additionally, the scope has a fairly lightweight construction of 27.3oz only.
Last but not least, this rifle scope has HD lens elements that work together with the fully multi-coated optics to produce ultra-bright and sharp image views even in dismal environments.
Features
- Aircraft-grade aluminum housing
- Fully multi-coated optics
- 34mm tube diameter
- Adjustable parallax from 10 yards to infinity
- Armortek lens coating
- First focal plane reticle
- XD/HD lens elements
Pros
- Good eye relief
- Quality construction
- Multiple accessories included
Cons
- Slightly heavy
8) Trijicon AccuPoint TR-23 5-20x50mm SFP Riflescope
Our last scope recommendation for long-range deer hunting is the Trijicon AccuPoint TR-23 5-20x50mm. It excels in low-light hunting environments and this is made possible by the large 50mm objective lens.
With the variable 5-20x magnification range and the large objective lens, this riflescope delivers the power you will need to get on targets across all ranges. The large 30mm tube provides room for adjustments and with the premium optical elements, the scope’s magnification power is useful at every level.
This top-tier optic is also graced with a handy third turret that re-focuses the reticle to eliminate parallax. On top of that, the reticle features dual tritium and fiber optic illumination which provides a vibrant point of aim under any light condition.
In terms of construction, the Trijicon AccuPoint TR-23 has a ruggedized 6061-T6 aluminum main tube that is waterproof to 10’. The entire tube also has a scratch-proof Type III hard anodized finish that is non-reflective.
Features
- Mil-Spec finish
- 30mm main tube
- Multi-layer coated lenses
- Tritium and fiber optic illumination
- Side focus parallax correction
- Waterproof and submersible to 10’
Pros
- Premium build quality
- Battery-free reticle illumination
- Good eye relief
- Lightweight and easy to use
Cons
- Higher cost
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How to Choose the Best Long-Range Deer Hunting Scopes
Let us now look at the important things you should consider when getting a deer hunting scope.
Magnification Power
Long-range deer hunting calls for a high-powered scope that can cover the distance with ease.
We recommend that you find a variable-powered scope with at least 10x maximum magnification. The broader the zoom range is the better if you want the make the most out of the scope.
Lens Quality
The next important thing to consider is the quality of optics the scope uses. The best long-range deer hunting scopes use either ED or HD glass elements to maximize resolution.
A great deer hunting scope should also boast premium coatings on the lenses to ensure high levels of light transfer.
Read: Best Spotting Scopes for Elk Hunting
Durability
Long-range scopes are an investment. They come at a higher price tag due to the high magnification power and large objective lens.
As such, it is vital to get a scope that will stand up to regular use and last for a long period.
The best long-range deer hunting scopes should also be 100% waterproof, fog-resistant and operable in a wide range of temperatures.
Weight
Weight is the other thing to take into account. Deer hunting often requires one to move around from one location to the other.
If the scope is big and bulky, it will weigh you down and affect the balance of your hunting rifle. So, make sure that you get a rifle scope that is built lightweight and sturdy.
Read: Best Scopes for 300 Yards
What is the Best Magnification for a Deer Hunting Scope?
The best magnification for deer hunting scope largely depends on these two things: the distance you will hunting in and individual preference.
For medium-range use in dense forests, the best magnification for deer hunting is 3-9x. But for long-range and extreme long-range use in open spaces, you will need a scope with 12x or more magnification power.
What Magnification Scope for 1000 yards?
10x and above. A scope with 10x magnification power, decent turrets and good optical quality is more than sufficient to help you acquire targets with great accuracy out to 1,000 yards.
Read: Best 1000-Yard Scopes for 6.5 Creedmoor
Final Shot
Getting a scope that is optimized for long-range use is important for long-range deer hunting. Each of the rifle scopes we have listed above will give you a competitive edge when hunting deer in any environment. So, take a look at the features that make each scope stand out and pick the unit that will help make all your expeditions a success this hunting season.