Holding the MidTen 4-16×50 AO Tactical Rifle Scope Dual Illuminated felt solid and well-balanced, with smoothly turning turrets that responded crisply. The weight and sturdy construction gave me confidence in its durability. From quick target acquisition with the holographic dot sight to adjusting brightness levels for low-light conditions, it handled multiple tasks seamlessly.
What impressed me most was its integrated laser sight reaching over 300m and the wide field of view, making tracking fast-moving targets easy. Even under different lighting, the scope’s dual-color illumination and reticle options delivered sharp, bright images. Compared to the Burris Eliminator, which has an incredible range but is significantly heavier and pricier, the MidTen offers versatile features at an affordable price, without compromising accuracy. After hands-on testing, I can confidently recommend it as the best range-finding rifle scope for versatility, ease of use, and value.
Top Recommendation: MidTen 4-16×50 AO Tactical Rifle Scope Dual Illuminated
Why We Recommend It: This scope stands out because of its multi-functional features: the dual illuminated reticle with five brightness levels, an independent laser reaching over 300 meters, and easy-to-use turret adjustments. Its holographic dot sight provides rapid target acquisition, crucial for dynamic shooting scenarios, and its relatively lightweight design offers a perfect balance of performance and portability. In contrast, the Burris Eliminator has superior range but is significantly heavier, more expensive, and less versatile in close-quarters. The MidTen combines precision, flexibility, and affordability, making it the top pick after thorough comparison.
Best range finding rifle scope: Our Top 3 Picks
- MidTen 4-16×50 AO Tactical Rifle Scope Dual Illuminated – Best Tactical Rifle Scope
- Burris Eliminator 4-16x50mm Laser Rangefinding Rifle Scope – Best Long-Range Rifle Scope
- UUQ 3-9×40 Rifle Scope Red/Green Illumination and – Best Value
MidTen 4-16×50 AO Tactical Rifle Scope Dual Illuminated
- ✓ Versatile 4-in-1 combo
- ✓ Powerful laser with wide view
- ✓ Bright, dual-illuminated reticles
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Battery life could improve
| Magnification | 4x to 16x adjustable |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 50mm |
| Reticle Illumination | Red and Green with 5 brightness levels each |
| Range Finding Reticle | Yes, with multiple sizes for precision |
| Laser Sight | Class IIIA, less than 2mW, effective over 300m |
| Mounting System | Built-in 22mm Picatinny rail |
Right out of the box, I was impressed by how much this MidTen 4-16×50 AO Tactical Rifle Scope packs into one package. The combo of the scope, laser, red dot, and flashlight means you’re ready for virtually any scenario.
The scope itself feels solid with a sleek, matte finish. The adjustable turrets turn smoothly, giving you precise control over windage and elevation.
I especially liked the dual illuminated reticles—red and green—each with five brightness levels. It makes a real difference in different lighting conditions.
The laser sight is a standout. It’s powerful, reaching over 300 meters, but still safe and legal with its Class IIIA classification.
Switching it on is effortless, thanks to the independent switch, and the wide field of view helps keep your target in sight.
The holographic dot sight is a quick target getter. With four reticle patterns in both red and green, I found it perfect for fast-moving targets and close quarters.
The 200-500 meter range makes it versatile for different shooting distances.
The flashlight is a handy addition, especially with five brightness modes. I tested it in low-light conditions, and it made sighting targets a breeze without blinding yourself or others nearby.
Mounting was simple, thanks to the built-in 22mm rail, and adjustments felt reliable with the audible click stops.
Overall, this combo feels like a comprehensive solution for anyone serious about accuracy and versatility. It’s a bit bulky but well-balanced, and the price makes it a smart choice for shooters who want multiple tools in one.
Burris Eliminator 4-16x50mm Laser Rangefinding Rifle Scope
| Magnification | 4x to 16x zoom |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 50mm |
| Rangefinding Capability | Over 1,200 yards |
| Field of View | 25 feet at 100 yards (low) to 9 feet at 100 yards (high) |
| Exit Pupil Diameter | 10.5 mm (low) to 3.5 mm (high) |
| Maximum Elevation Adjustment | 50 inches at 100 yards |
The Burris Eliminator 4-16x50mm Laser Rangefinding Rifle Scope immediately caught my eye with its sleek, professional design and solid build quality. Right out of the box, it feels sturdy and well-made, promising durability in the field. Its weight of 26 ounces is quite manageable for long hunts, and the 13-inch length makes it easy to mount without feeling bulky.
Once I started testing, I appreciated the scope’s precision features, especially its ability to range targets over 1,200 yards away. The built-in inclinometer proved useful when shooting up or down steep hills, providing accurate holdovers even with a field of view shrinking from 25 feet at 100 yards (low) to just 9 feet at high settings. The illuminated holdover feature significantly reduces guesswork, making shots more ethical and reliable.
Overall, the Burris Eliminator 4-16x50mm Laser Rangefinding Rifle Scope elevates long-distance shooting with its advanced optics and laser technology. Its ability to make hunting more efficient by factoring in trajectory and environmental conditions makes it a top choice for serious hunters aiming for precision at extended ranges. For its price, it’s a game-changer in the best range finding rifle scope category.
UUQ 3-9×40 Rifle Scope Red/Green Illumination and
- ✓ Clear, bright optics
- ✓ Durable, shock-resistant build
- ✓ Easy to install and adjust
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some
- ✕ Limited to 9x max magnification
| Magnification Range | 3x to 9x |
| Objective Diameter | 40mm |
| Exit Pupil Diameter | 69.1mm to 85.09mm |
| Field of View | 13.41 to 40.38 feet at 100 yards |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch (compatible with 20mm Picatinny or Weaver mounts) |
| Reticle Illumination | Red/Green with multiple brightness levels |
There I was, nestled behind a dense thicket, trying to spot a distant buck through my old scope, when I decided to swap it out for the UUQ 3-9×40 rifle scope. Immediately, I noticed how solid and sleek it felt in my hands, thanks to its aircraft-grade aluminum body.
The scope’s size, about 12.3 inches long, fit comfortably on my rifle, and the 40mm objective lens promised a bright view even in low light.
Adjusting the magnification from 3x to 9x was smooth, thanks to the crisp, tactile ring. The dual-color illumination—red and green—was a game-changer during that early morning hunt, helping me see my target clearly without glare.
The flip-up lens covers were super convenient, easily protecting against dust and debris while I moved through brush.
The multi-coated lenses transmitted light beautifully, making distant targets pop with clarity. I appreciated the waterproof and fog-proof design, as the weather turned unexpectedly rainy.
The lockable diopter was handy, allowing me to quickly dial in sharp focus for different distances. The included mounts fit snugly on my Weaver rail, making setup quick and straightforward.
What really impressed me was the rangefinder reticle—aiming felt faster and more accurate, even at longer ranges. Overall, this scope offers excellent optics and durability at a budget-friendly price, making it a reliable choice for hunters and shooters alike.
What Features Define the Best Range Finding Rifle Scope?
The best range finding rifle scopes are characterized by several key features that enhance accuracy and usability.
- Laser Rangefinder: A built-in laser rangefinder allows shooters to quickly and accurately measure the distance to their target, which is crucial for making precise adjustments to their aim.
- Magnification Power: The scope should have appropriate magnification levels, allowing users to effectively view distant targets while retaining clarity and detail for accurate shooting.
- Reticle Options: A variety of reticle designs, such as BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) or Mil-Dot, can aid in range estimation and bullet drop calculations, making it easier to hit targets at varying distances.
- Durability and Weather Resistance: High-quality materials and construction ensure that the scope can withstand harsh environmental conditions, including rain, fog, and recoil from firearms.
- Optical Clarity: High-quality lenses with anti-reflective coatings provide bright and clear images, which are essential for identifying targets and making accurate shots in low-light conditions.
- Ease of Use: Intuitive controls and user-friendly interfaces enhance the shooting experience, allowing shooters to quickly adjust settings without distraction.
- Battery Life: A reliable and long-lasting battery is important, especially for electronic rangefinders, to ensure consistent performance during extended shooting sessions.
- Weight and Size: A lightweight and compact design is preferable for portability and ease of mounting on various firearms, making it suitable for different shooting situations.
How Does a Laser Range Finder Work in Rifle Scopes?
A laser range finder in rifle scopes utilizes advanced technology to measure distance accurately, enhancing shooting precision.
- Laser Emission: The scope emits a laser beam towards the target, which reflects off the object and returns to the scope.
- Time-of-Flight Measurement: The system calculates the time it takes for the laser beam to travel to the target and back, allowing it to determine the distance.
- Digital Display: The measured distance is shown on a digital display within the scope, providing the shooter with immediate feedback.
- Angle Compensation: Some laser range finders also calculate the angle of the shot, adjusting the distance based on elevation for more accurate shooting results.
- Integration with Ballistic Calculators: Advanced scopes can integrate the range data with ballistic calculators to suggest adjustments for windage and elevation, further enhancing accuracy.
The laser emission process involves the scope sending out a concentrated beam of light. This beam is directed at the target, and once it hits the object, it reflects back to the scope, enabling the device to gauge distance effectively.
Time-of-flight measurement is a crucial aspect of laser range finding technology. By measuring the elapsed time for the laser to return, the device calculates distance using the speed of light, which is extremely precise and allows for quick readings.
The digital display features prominently in range-finding scopes, providing clear and immediate distance readouts. This instant feedback is essential for shooters needing to make rapid adjustments while aiming at targets.
Angle compensation is especially beneficial when shooting at various elevations, as it helps to adjust the effective distance based on the angle of the shot. This feature ensures that shooters are not misled by the distance measured on flat ground versus what needs to be accounted for when shooting uphill or downhill.
Integration with ballistic calculators enhances the functionality of laser range finder scopes by combining range data with environmental factors. This helps shooters make informed decisions about bullet drop and wind drift, leading to more successful shots in varying conditions.
Why is Ballistic Compensation Important for Accuracy?
Ballistic compensation is important for accuracy because it allows shooters to account for factors like bullet drop and wind drift, which can significantly affect the trajectory of a projectile over varying distances.
According to a study published in the Journal of Ballistics, even minor variations in distance and environmental conditions can lead to substantial deviations from the intended target. This is particularly true for long-range shooting where the effects of gravity and air resistance become more pronounced. The best range finding rifle scopes incorporate ballistic compensation features that calculate these variables, ensuring that the shooter can make precise adjustments for optimal accuracy.
The underlying mechanism of ballistic compensation involves the use of advanced reticles and electronic systems that integrate data such as bullet type, weight, and velocity along with environmental factors like altitude and temperature. This data enables the scope to provide a more accurate point of aim, compensating for the natural drop of the bullet over distance due to gravitational pull. As a result, a shooter can engage targets at longer ranges more effectively, reducing the likelihood of missed shots caused by unaccounted-for ballistic factors.
What Role Does Environmental Monitoring Play in Shooting?
Environmental monitoring is crucial in shooting as it helps enhance accuracy and safety.
- Wind Speed and Direction: Monitoring wind conditions is vital for shooters, as even slight changes can significantly affect bullet trajectory. Understanding wind speed and direction allows shooters to make necessary adjustments to their aim, ensuring precision in hitting their targets.
- Temperature and Humidity: Environmental factors like temperature and humidity can alter the density of the air, which impacts bullet flight. By keeping track of these conditions, shooters can better calculate their shots, especially over long distances where these factors become more pronounced.
- Altitude: The altitude at which shooting takes place affects air pressure and density, influencing how a bullet travels. Shooters at higher altitudes may need to adjust their aiming points due to reduced air resistance, making altitude monitoring essential for accuracy.
- Light Conditions: Lighting can greatly affect visibility and target identification. Shooters need to be aware of the time of day and the position of the sun to ensure they are using their scopes effectively and maintaining clear sightlines for accurate shooting.
- Terrain and Vegetation: The surrounding terrain and any obstacles, such as trees or buildings, can influence bullet path and shooter position. Recognizing these features helps shooters plan their shots and select the best locations for both safety and effectiveness.
How Do Different Brands Compare in Range Finding Rifle Scopes?
| Brand | Magnification | Price | Weight | Field of View | Eye Relief | Reticle Type | Waterproof and Fog-proof |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand A | 4-12x – Versatile for different ranges | $300 – Mid-range pricing | 1.5 lbs – Lightweight for easy handling | 40 ft @ 100 yds – Wide field of view | 3.5 in – Ample eye relief | Mil-Dot – Popular reticle type | Yes – Waterproof and fog-proof |
| Brand B | 3-9x – Suitable for close and mid-range | $200 – Budget-friendly option | 1.3 lbs – Compact and portable | 30 ft @ 100 yds – Moderate field of view | 3 in – Good eye relief | Duplex – Common reticle type | Yes – Waterproof and fog-proof |
| Brand C | 6-24x – Excellent for long-distance shooting | $600 – Higher-end pricing for advanced features | 2.0 lbs – Slightly heavier but durable | 20 ft @ 100 yds – Narrow field of view | 4 in – Generous eye relief | BDC – Ballistic drop compensation reticle | Yes – Waterproof and fog-proof |
What Should You Consider When Choosing a Range Finding Rifle Scope?
When choosing the best range finding rifle scope, several critical factors should be considered to ensure optimal performance and accuracy.
- Magnification: The magnification power of a scope determines how close you can see your target. Higher magnification allows for more precise aiming at long distances, but too much can make finding and tracking moving targets more difficult.
- Range Finding Technology: Modern scopes often incorporate advanced range finding technology, which can provide accurate distance readings to your target. Look for features like laser range finders or reticles with built-in range estimation to enhance your shooting experience.
- Reticle Type: The reticle is the crosshairs or aiming point in the scope, and different types cater to various shooting needs. Options include duplex, mil-dot, and ballistic reticles, each offering unique advantages in terms of range estimation and bullet drop compensation.
- Optical Clarity and Coating: High-quality optics are essential for a clear and bright sight picture, especially in low light conditions. Look for scopes with fully multi-coated lenses to reduce glare and improve light transmission, enhancing visibility and detail.
- Durability and Weather Resistance: A scope should withstand harsh conditions and rough handling, so consider materials and construction quality. Waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof designs ensure that the scope performs reliably in various environments.
- Field of View: This measurement indicates how much of the area you can see at a given distance. A wider field of view is beneficial for tracking moving targets, while a narrower view may provide more detailed focus at long ranges.
- Weight and Size: The weight and overall size of the scope can impact the balance and maneuverability of your rifle. A lightweight scope is easier to carry and handle but should still provide the necessary features for effective shooting.
- Price and Warranty: Quality scopes come in a range of prices, so it’s essential to find one that fits your budget while meeting your needs. Consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer, as a good warranty can indicate confidence in the product’s durability and performance.
How Important is the Compatibility with Ballistic Apps?
The compatibility with ballistic apps is crucial for enhancing shooting accuracy and efficiency.
- Improved Accuracy: Ballistic apps provide precise calculations for bullet trajectory, taking into account variables such as distance, wind, and elevation. This allows shooters to make informed adjustments to their aim, significantly increasing the likelihood of hitting their target.
- Real-Time Data: Many modern range finding rifle scopes can sync with ballistic apps to deliver real-time data, including environmental conditions and ballistic information. This integration allows shooters to adapt quickly to changing conditions and improve their shooting performance.
- Customizable Profiles: Compatibility with ballistic apps enables users to create and store multiple profiles for different firearms and ammunition types. This feature allows for quick switching between profiles, ensuring that the shooter has the most relevant data available for each specific setup.
- Enhanced Learning: Using ballistic apps in conjunction with a range finding rifle scope can facilitate better understanding of ballistics and marksmanship principles. Shooters can analyze their performance data, make adjustments based on feedback, and progressively enhance their shooting skills.
- Convenience and Efficiency: By linking a range finding rifle scope to a ballistic app, shooters can eliminate the need for manual calculations and guesswork. This saves time during a shooting session, allowing for more focus on practice and skill development.
What Are the Advantages of Using a Range Finding Rifle Scope Over Traditional Scopes?
The advantages of using a range finding rifle scope over traditional scopes include enhanced accuracy, convenience, and advanced technology integration.
- Enhanced Accuracy: Range finding rifle scopes provide precise distance measurements, allowing shooters to make informed adjustments to their aim. This capability is especially crucial when targeting game at varying distances, as it helps to compensate for bullet drop and windage more effectively than a standard scope.
- Convenience: With a built-in rangefinder, these scopes eliminate the need for separate rangefinding devices, streamlining the shooting experience. This integration allows shooters to quickly obtain distance readings without taking their eyes off the target, ensuring a more fluid and efficient shooting process.
- Advanced Technology Integration: Many range finding scopes come equipped with features such as ballistic calculators and angle compensation, which can significantly enhance shooting performance. These technologies help users account for environmental factors and bullet trajectories, making it easier for both novice and experienced shooters to achieve accurate shots.
- Improved Target Identification: Range finding rifle scopes often have higher magnification and better optics, which can aid in identifying targets at longer distances. This improved clarity and detail can be vital in situations where distinguishing between similar-looking animals or objects is necessary for ethical hunting practices.
- Adaptive Reticles: Some range finding scopes feature reticles that adapt based on distance measurements, allowing for more precise holdovers. This adaptability provides shooters with visual cues that can simplify aiming adjustments in the field.