best 45-70 rifle scope

Holding the SNIPER Rifle Scope MT 6-24×50 with Illuminated Reticle in my hands, I immediately noticed its solid construction—weighty, yet balanced. The textured turrets turned smoothly and felt precise, promising accurate adjustments. When I aimed it out in the field, the multi-coated lenses delivered bright, clear images, even in low light. That richness in detail and ease of use really stood out, especially when fine-tuning for long-range shots.

After testing various scopes, the SNIPER’s combination of 6-24x magnification, robust aircraft-grade aluminum body, and precise windage/elevation adjustments made it a standout for 45-70 rifles. Its sealed, fog-proof build handled tough outdoor conditions, making it reliable. This scope’s versatility and durability surpass some less feature-rich options, ensuring it’s ready for any hunting or target shoot scenario. Trust me, this scope delivers the quality and performance you need, making your shot count!

Top Recommendation: SNIPER Rifle Scope MT 6-24×50 with Illuminated Reticle

Why We Recommend It: This scope offers superior multi-coated lenses for brightness and clarity, plus 1/4 MOA precise adjustments and a rugged aircraft-grade aluminum body. Its sealed, nitrogen-filled design makes it shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof—ideal for challenging outdoor conditions. Compared to lighter, less feature-rich scopes like the CVLIFE 6-24×50 or the CVLIFE 2-10×32, the SNIPER’s durability and advanced multi-color reticle give it a clear edge.

Best 45-70 rifle scope: Our Top 5 Picks

• CVLIFE Hunting Rifle Scope 6-24×50 AOE Red and Green – Best long-range rifle scope for 45-70
• SNIPER Rifle Scope MT 6-24×50 with Illuminated Reticle – Best high-powered rifle scope for 45-70
• Gotical Marlin Rifle Picatinny Scope Rail Mount – Best budget rifle scope for 45-70
• Monstrum Guardian 6-18×50 AO Rifle Scope Black – Best hunting rifle scope for 45-70
• CVLIFE 2-10×32 MPVO AO Rifle Scope with Illuminated Reticle – Best rifle scope for 45-70

What Should You Look for When Choosing the Best 45-70 Rifle Scope?

When choosing the best 45-70 rifle scope, several key features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and accuracy.

• Magnification: The appropriate magnification range is essential for the 45-70 caliber, which is often used for hunting at varying distances. A scope with a magnification of 1-4x or 2-7x is ideal for short to medium-range shots, providing a clear sight picture without losing field of view.
• Objective Lens Size: A larger objective lens allows more light to enter, improving visibility in low-light conditions. For a 45-70 rifle scope, an objective lens size of 40mm to 50mm is often recommended, striking a balance between brightness and weight.
• Reticle Type: The choice of reticle can greatly affect shooting accuracy. Options like duplex, BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator), or illuminated reticles cater to different shooting preferences and environments, helping shooters quickly acquire targets in various lighting situations.
• Durability and Weather Resistance: Given the rugged conditions often encountered when hunting, a scope should be constructed from durable materials and be waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof. Look for scopes with a sturdy build and quality seals to withstand harsh weather and recoil from the powerful 45-70 cartridge.
• Eye Relief: Adequate eye relief is crucial to prevent scope bite, especially with high-recoil rifles like the 45-70. A scope with at least 3.5 to 4 inches of eye relief allows shooters to maintain a safe distance while still achieving a full view of the reticle.
• Adjustment Turrets: The ability to make precise adjustments for windage and elevation is important for accuracy. Look for scopes with tactile, easily adjustable turrets that provide clear audible clicks, allowing quick corrections in the field without needing tools.
• Brand and Warranty: Choosing a reputable brand often correlates with quality and reliability. Additionally, a good warranty can provide peace of mind, ensuring that any potential defects or issues can be addressed without additional cost.

How Does Magnification Affect My Shooting Experience with a 45-70 Rifle?

• Low Magnification (1x to 4x): Low magnification scopes provide a wider field of view, allowing for quicker target acquisition at close ranges.
• Medium Magnification (4x to 9x): Medium magnification offers a balance between field of view and detail, making it suitable for varied shooting distances.
• High Magnification (10x and above): High magnification scopes excel at long-range shooting, enhancing the ability to see distant targets clearly, but they can be more challenging to use in dynamic situations.
• Variable Magnification Scopes: Variable scopes allow shooters to adjust magnification levels, providing versatility for different shooting scenarios and distances.
• Fixed Magnification Scopes: Fixed scopes offer simplicity and reliability, with a set magnification that can enhance precision for specific shooting distances.

Low magnification scopes (1x to 4x) are ideal for situations where targets are close and quick engagement is necessary. They offer a broader field of view, making it easier to track moving targets and engage quickly.

Medium magnification scopes (4x to 9x) strike a balance, making them versatile for various shooting conditions. They allow shooters to effectively engage targets at both close and moderate distances, providing clarity without compromising field of view.

High magnification scopes (10x and above) are best for long-range shooting, enabling precise target identification and engagement at extended distances. However, they can narrow the field of view and require more steady handling, which can be challenging in fast-paced situations.

Variable magnification scopes offer the flexibility to adapt to different shooting environments by allowing users to adjust the magnification according to their needs. This adaptability can be particularly beneficial for hunters who encounter varying distances to their targets.

Fixed magnification scopes provide a consistent level of magnification, which can enhance accuracy for specific shooting distances. They are often favored for their reliability and simplicity, eliminating the potential for distraction from adjusting settings while aiming.

What Reticle Types Are Most Effective for 45-70 Scopes?

When selecting the best reticle types for a .45-70 rifle scope, several options stand out for their effectiveness in various shooting scenarios.

• Duplex Reticle: This is one of the most common reticle types, featuring thick outer posts that taper to a fine crosshair in the center. It provides excellent visibility in various lighting conditions, making it ideal for hunters who need to quickly acquire targets without sacrificing precision.
• Mil-Dot Reticle: The Mil-Dot reticle includes dots along the crosshairs that help with range estimation and bullet drop compensation. This reticle is particularly beneficial for long-range shooting, allowing shooters to make adjustments based on distance and environmental factors effectively.
• BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation) Reticle: Designed specifically for various calibers, BDC reticles have markings that correspond to bullet drop at different distances. This type is useful for shooters who want to engage targets at varying ranges without having to adjust their scope frequently.
• Illuminated Reticle: An illuminated reticle features a light source that enhances visibility in low-light conditions, making it easier to see the crosshairs against dark backgrounds. This is especially advantageous for hunting during dawn or dusk when visibility can be challenging.
• Crosshair Reticle: A simple and straightforward option, the crosshair reticle consists of two intersecting lines. While it lacks the complexity of other reticle types, it provides a clear point of aim and is often preferred for its simplicity and ease of use in fast-paced situations.

Why Is Durability Essential in a 45-70 Rifle Scope?

Durability is essential in a 45-70 rifle scope due to the high recoil associated with the caliber, which can significantly impact the scope’s performance and longevity.

According to a study by the National Shooting Sports Foundation, high-recoil rifles like the 45-70 Gov’t require scopes that can withstand extreme forces without losing zero or suffering internal damage. Scopes designed for such calibers typically utilize robust materials and construction techniques to ensure they remain functional under these conditions.

The underlying mechanism relates to the physics of recoil. When a shot is fired, the explosive force creates a rapid movement that can jolt the scope’s internal components. In a durable scope, features such as nitrogen purging prevent fogging, while shockproof construction absorbs the impact of the recoil, thus maintaining the alignment of the reticle and ensuring consistent accuracy. If a scope is not built to endure these stresses, it may suffer from issues such as blurred optics, misalignment, or even complete failure, all of which compromise the shooter’s ability to aim accurately.

Furthermore, the materials used in the construction of a durable scope often include aircraft-grade aluminum and heavy-duty seals, which provide resistance against water, dust, and other environmental factors. This is particularly important for hunters and shooters who may use their rifles in various conditions. The combination of impact resistance and environmental protection allows the scope to maintain its integrity over time, ensuring reliable performance when it matters most.

How Important Is Eye Relief When Using a 45-70 Scope?

Eye relief is a critical factor when selecting the best 45-70 rifle scope, as it ensures comfort and safety during shooting.

• Definition of Eye Relief: Eye relief refers to the distance between the rear lens of the scope and the shooter’s eye where a full sight picture can be obtained.
• Importance of Comfort: Adequate eye relief allows for a comfortable shooting position, which is essential for accurate aiming and prolonged use.
• Recoil Consideration: The 45-70 caliber is known for its significant recoil, so sufficient eye relief protects the shooter’s eye from potential injury.
• Field of View: Eye relief also impacts the field of view; a scope with proper eye relief enables the shooter to maintain a wider field of view while aiming.
• Adjustability: Some scopes offer adjustable eye relief, allowing shooters to customize their setup for optimal comfort and performance.

The definition of eye relief is fundamental to understanding its importance; it specifically indicates how far back the shooter can position their eye while still receiving a clear and unobstructed view through the scope. This distance can vary between different scopes, making it essential to find one that matches your shooting style and gun setup.

When considering the importance of comfort, proper eye relief helps ensure that the shooter can maintain a natural and relaxed posture. This comfort is particularly vital during extended shooting sessions, as a good position can enhance focus and reduce fatigue.

Regarding recoil consideration, the 45-70 cartridge produces substantial recoil energy. Without adequate eye relief, a shooter risks getting “scope bite,” which occurs when the scope hits the shooter’s brow upon firing, leading to injury. Therefore, a scope that provides ample eye relief is crucial for anyone shooting this powerful caliber.

The field of view is another aspect affected by eye relief. A scope that offers the right eye relief allows for a larger and clearer field of view, enabling the shooter to track moving targets more effectively. This can be particularly important in hunting scenarios where quick target acquisition is necessary.

Lastly, some scopes feature adjustable eye relief, which can be a game-changer for versatility. This adjustability allows shooters to modify the distance according to their personal preference or shooting style, enhancing both comfort and shooting accuracy.

Which Features Distinguish Quality 45-70 Rifle Scopes from Others?

When selecting the best 45-70 rifle scope, several features set quality options apart from others.

• Magnification Range: A good 45-70 rifle scope typically offers a versatile magnification range, allowing shooters to effectively engage targets at various distances. For example, a 1-4x or 2-7x magnification can be ideal for close to medium-range shooting, which is common with this caliber.
• Reticle Type: The type of reticle can significantly affect targeting and accuracy. Options like duplex or BDC (bullet drop compensator) reticles can help shooters make quick adjustments for distance and drop, enhancing precision in the field.
• Lens Quality: High-quality glass and coatings are essential for clarity and light transmission. Multi-coated lenses improve brightness and contrast, allowing for better visibility during low-light conditions, which is often when hunting occurs.
• Durability and Weather Resistance: A quality rifle scope should be rugged and capable of withstanding harsh weather conditions. Features like shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof construction ensure the scope maintains functionality in various environments.
• Adjustment Mechanisms: Precise and easy-to-use windage and elevation adjustments are critical for accuracy. Quality scopes often feature tactile turrets that allow for quick and reliable adjustments in the field, ensuring consistent shooting performance.
• Eye Relief: Adequate eye relief is crucial, especially for the powerful recoil of the 45-70 caliber. Quality scopes generally provide generous eye relief to protect the shooter’s eye while allowing for comfortable aiming and shooting.

How Do Lens Coatings Improve Visibility in 45-70 Scopes?

Lens coatings enhance visibility in 45-70 scopes by reducing glare, improving light transmission, and increasing durability.

• Anti-Reflective Coating: This coating minimizes the amount of light lost due to reflection off the lens surfaces. By allowing more light to pass through the lenses, it results in brighter and clearer images, especially in low-light conditions, which is crucial for hunting with a 45-70 rifle.
• Scratch-Resistant Coating: This type of coating protects the lens from scratches and abrasions that can impair visibility. A clear lens is essential for maintaining optimal sighting accuracy, and a scratch-resistant coating ensures that the scope remains functional and clear over time.
• Water-Repellent Coating: Water-repellent coatings prevent moisture from clinging to the lens, allowing rain and dew to bead up and roll off. This not only helps maintain a clear view in wet conditions but also makes the lens easier to clean, ensuring that visibility is not compromised during use.
• UV Protection Coating: This coating filters out harmful ultraviolet rays that can cause eye strain and fatigue. By reducing UV exposure, shooters can maintain comfortable and clear vision over extended periods, which is especially important during long hunting sessions.
• Multi-Coating: Multi-coatings involve applying several layers of different coatings to enhance light transmission across a wider spectrum. This results in improved brightness, color fidelity, and contrast, which significantly aids in identifying targets in various lighting conditions, making it ideal for the versatility required by the 45-70 rifle scope.

Why Is Parallax Error Important to Consider with 45-70 Scopes?

Parallax error is crucial to consider with 45-70 scopes because it affects the accuracy of aiming and shot placement at varying distances. When the reticle and the target are not in the same plane, even slight movements of the shooter’s eye can result in misalignment, leading to inaccurate shots.

According to the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, parallax error becomes particularly significant as distance increases, especially with high-powered scopes used in hunting and shooting sports. A study conducted by the National Shooting Sports Foundation emphasizes that the higher the magnification of a scope, the more pronounced the effects of parallax can be, which can lead to significant deviations in bullet impact if not properly corrected.

The underlying mechanism involves the relationship between the scope’s optics and the shooter’s line of sight. When a scope is not adjusted for parallax, the reticle may appear to shift against the background of the target as the shooter’s eye moves slightly from the ideal viewing position. This shift can cause the point of impact to change, especially at longer ranges typical for a 45-70 rifle, which is often used for big game hunting. Proper parallax adjustment ensures that the reticle remains correctly aligned with the target regardless of minor shifts in the shooter’s position, thereby enhancing accuracy and effectiveness in the field.

What Are the Top-Ranked Brands of 45-70 Rifle Scopes?

The top-ranked brands of 45-70 rifle scopes are known for their quality, durability, and precision.

• Leupold: Renowned for its high-quality optics, Leupold offers a range of rifle scopes that excel in low light conditions, making them ideal for hunting with a 45-70 rifle. Their scopes are built to withstand harsh environments and come with a lifetime warranty, ensuring reliability in the field.
• Nikon: Nikon scopes are praised for their excellent image clarity and bright optics, which enhance the shooting experience. They feature advanced reticle options and user-friendly adjustments, making them suitable for both novice and experienced shooters using a 45-70 rifle.
• Vortex Optics: Vortex is known for its innovative designs and high-quality features at competitive prices. Their scopes offer a wide field of view and robust construction, providing excellent performance and durability specifically tailored for the needs of 45-70 rifle users.
• Burris: Burris scopes are recognized for their precision and reliability, featuring features like the Ballistic Plex reticle that aids in long-range shooting. They are designed to handle the recoil of powerful calibers like the 45-70, ensuring consistent accuracy shot after shot.
• Bushnell: Bushnell is celebrated for providing reliable optics at an affordable price. Their rifle scopes come with a variety of reticle options and features that suit the diverse needs of hunters and shooters using a 45-70 rifle, making them a great choice for those on a budget.

Which Brand Offers the Best Lifetime Warranty for 45-70 Scopes?

Several brands are known for offering excellent lifetime warranties on their 45-70 rifle scopes.

• Leupold: Known for their exceptional craftsmanship, Leupold offers a lifetime guarantee against defects in materials and workmanship.
• Burris: Burris scopes come with a lifetime warranty that covers defects and provides repair or replacement at no cost, ensuring long-term reliability.
• Nikon: While their lifetime warranty covers manufacturing defects, Nikon scopes offer a solid reputation for quality and performance in the field.
• Simmons: Simmons provides a limited lifetime warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship, making their scopes a popular choice for budget-conscious shooters.
• Vortex: Vortex stands out with its unlimited lifetime warranty, which includes both defects and damage, reflecting their confidence in product durability.

Leupold: Leupold’s lifetime guarantee is highly regarded in the shooting community. They ensure that any scope, if found to have defects in materials or workmanship, will be repaired or replaced at no charge, which is a testament to their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

Burris: Burris scopes are backed by a lifetime warranty that not only covers defects but also emphasizes customer support. This warranty ensures that users can rely on their scopes for years to come without worrying about potential issues arising from manufacturing flaws.

Nikon: Nikon offers a limited lifetime warranty that focuses on protecting against manufacturing defects. Although the warranty does not cover accidental damage, Nikon scopes are recognized for their clarity and performance, making them a solid choice for hunters.

Simmons: Simmons provides a limited lifetime warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty is appealing to entry-level shooters, as it allows them to invest in quality optics without a significant financial commitment.

Vortex: Vortex is well-known for its unlimited lifetime warranty, which not only covers defects but also accidental damage. This warranty reflects Vortex’s confidence in their products, assuring customers that they can rely on their scopes in any situation.

How Do You Mount and Zero a 45-70 Rifle Scope Effectively?

To effectively mount and zero a 45-70 rifle scope, follow these key steps:

• Choosing the Right Scope Base: Select a scope base that is compatible with your specific 45-70 rifle model to ensure proper fit and stability.
• Mounting the Scope Rings: Attach the scope rings to the base securely, making sure they are aligned and properly tightened to prevent any movement during shooting.
• Positioning the Scope: Place the scope in the rings at a comfortable height and eye relief, allowing for a clear sight picture without straining your neck.
• Leveling the Scope: Use a scope level or a bubble level to ensure the scope is perfectly level with the rifle, which is crucial for accurate shooting.
• Zeroing the Scope: Shoot a group of shots at a target to determine where the bullets are hitting, then adjust the windage and elevation turrets accordingly to align the crosshairs with the point of impact.
• Confirming the Zero: After making adjustments, fire another group of shots to confirm that the adjustments were accurate and that the rifle is now zeroed at your desired distance.

Choosing the Right Scope Base: The scope base serves as the foundation for your scope, so it’s essential to choose one that fits your rifle model. This ensures that the scope is mounted securely and can withstand recoil without shifting, which is particularly important for a powerful cartridge like the 45-70.

Mounting the Scope Rings: After selecting the appropriate base, the next step is to attach scope rings. Ensure that the rings are properly aligned and tightened to avoid any scope movement, which could affect accuracy. It’s advisable to use a torque wrench to achieve the recommended specifications for the rings.

Positioning the Scope: When positioning the scope, consider factors such as eye relief, which is the distance from your eye to the ocular lens. An optimal setup allows for a full field of view without having to stretch your neck or squint, enhancing comfort during shooting sessions.

Leveling the Scope: A level scope is critical for accurate shooting; even a slight tilt can lead to significant errors at longer distances. Using a scope level or a bubble level ensures that the crosshairs are perfectly horizontal and vertical, providing a solid foundation for precision shooting.

Zeroing the Scope: To zero the scope, fire a group of shots at a target and note where the bullets land in relation to the crosshairs. Adjust the windage (left/right) and elevation (up/down) turrets based on where the shots are hitting, allowing for precise alignment of the scope with your rifle’s point of impact.

Confirming the Zero: After adjustments have been made, it’s crucial to confirm that your zero is accurate by firing another group of shots. This step ensures that the adjustments have been successful and that your rifle is now zeroed at the desired range, providing confidence in your shooting.

What Are the Common Mistakes When Zeroing a 45-70 Scope?

When zeroing a .45-70 rifle scope, several common mistakes can lead to inaccurate shooting results.

• Not Starting at the Right Distance: Many shooters begin zeroing at an inappropriate distance, often too far away. The .45-70 cartridge is typically more effective at shorter ranges, so starting at 25 yards can help quickly establish a baseline before fine-tuning at longer distances.
• Ignoring Windage and Elevation Adjustments: Failing to understand the windage and elevation adjustments can lead to confusion. Shooters must be aware of which direction to turn the knobs to move the point of impact; turning them the wrong way can worsen the zero rather than improve it.
• Rushing the Process: Many shooters are eager to finish zeroing and may rush through the process. Taking the time to shoot several groups, analyze the results, and make incremental adjustments will yield a more accurate and reliable zero.
• Not Using a Stable Shooting Position: Shooting from an unstable position can introduce unnecessary variables. It’s crucial to use a solid rest or a prone position to minimize movement and ensure that adjustments are accurately reflected in the point of impact.
• Overlooking the Importance of Consistent Ammo: Using different types of ammunition while zeroing can lead to inconsistent results. Stick to one type of ammo that you plan to use for hunting or target shooting to ensure that the zero remains valid across all shots.
• Neglecting to Account for Barrel Heat: Many shooters do not consider how barrel heat can affect accuracy. After firing multiple rounds in quick succession, the barrel can heat up and lead to a shift in point of impact, so it’s wise to allow the barrel to cool between adjustments.
• Failing to Record Adjustments: Not keeping track of the adjustments made during the zeroing process can lead to confusion later. Recording each change helps in understanding what works and what doesn’t, allowing for easier adjustments in the future.

What Problems Can Occur with 45-70 Rifle Scopes, and How Can They Be Resolved?

Various problems can occur with 45-70 rifle scopes, and understanding these issues can help in selecting the best option for your needs.

• Parallax Issues: Parallax can cause the reticle to appear to move in relation to the target when the shooter’s eye is not perfectly aligned with the scope. This misalignment can lead to inaccuracies, especially at longer distances. To resolve this, opt for a scope with an adjustable parallax feature or ensure proper eye alignment when shooting.
• Inadequate Magnification: Some shooters may find that the magnification provided by certain scopes is insufficient for their shooting needs, particularly for longer-range targets. Using a scope with higher magnification can help improve target acquisition and accuracy. It’s essential to choose a scope that matches the typical ranges at which you plan to shoot.
• Durability Concerns: 45-70 rifles can produce significant recoil, potentially damaging less durable scopes. Selecting a scope that is specifically designed to withstand heavy recoil is crucial. Look for features such as shockproof construction and robust materials to ensure longevity under tough conditions.
• Reticle Clarity: A poorly designed reticle can hinder target acquisition, especially in low-light conditions. Choosing a scope with a clear, well-defined reticle is vital for precision shooting. Additionally, consider scopes with illuminated reticles for improved visibility in dim environments.
• Lens Coating Issues: Some scopes may suffer from subpar lens coatings, leading to reduced light transmission and clarity. High-quality multi-coated or fully multi-coated lenses enhance light transmission and minimize glare. Investing in a scope with superior lens coatings can significantly improve your shooting experience.
• Adjustment Mechanism Problems: Inconsistent or unreliable adjustment mechanisms can lead to frustration during shooting. It’s important to select a scope with precise and repeatable turrets for windage and elevation adjustments. Regularly check and calibrate your scope to ensure it maintains zero and performs accurately.

Is It Possible to Fix a Foggy 45-70 Scope?

Yes, it is possible to fix a foggy 45-70 scope, but the success of the repair often depends on the extent of the damage and the specific issues causing the fogging.

• Check for Internal Moisture: The most common cause of fogging is moisture trapped inside the scope due to a seal failure. Gently disassembling the scope and allowing it to dry can sometimes resolve the issue, but care must be taken to avoid damaging any internal components.
• Seal Replacement: If the fogging is due to a broken or degraded seal, replacing the seal can restore the scope’s integrity. This process may require specialized tools and skills, making it advisable to consult a professional gunsmith for effective sealing.
• Refill with Nitrogen or Argon: High-quality scopes are often filled with nitrogen or argon gas to prevent fogging. If the gas has leaked out, you can have the scope refilled at a professional service center, which can help maintain clarity in various weather conditions.
• Professional Repair Services: For scopes that are significantly damaged or if DIY repairs seem daunting, seeking professional repair services is a reliable option. Experts can assess the scope’s condition, perform repairs, or suggest replacements if necessary.

Related Post:

• Best 4×16 ffp rifle scope
• Best 450 bushmaster rifle scope
• Best 4×32 air rifle scope
• Best 5.8-40×56 rifle scope
• Best 5-30x50mm rifle scope