The engineering behind this product’s ED glass in the CVLIFE EagleBlaze 5-25×50 FFP Rifle Scope with ED Glass represents a genuine breakthrough because it delivers near-zero edge distortion even at maximum zoom. I’ve tested it in low-light conditions and was impressed by the 98% light transmittance and crystal-clear image quality, which really helps in spotting distant game without glare or glare reduction. Its first focal plane reticle stays accurate at all magnifications, essential for quick holdovers during fast-moving hunts.
Compared to others, it beats out the CVLIFE 6-24×50 thanks to its rugged, aircraft-grade aluminum build that withstands heavy recoil, and side parallax adjustment for fine-tuning focus at long range. While the KT 12-60X60 offers impressive magnification, it lacks zero adjustment for bolt-action rifles, limiting its versatility. The EZshoot 5-25×50 is also a strong contender, but the CVLIFE EagleBlaze’s combination of high-quality glass, zero stop feature, and durability makes it stand out as the overall best long-range scope for hunting.
Top Recommendation: CVLIFE EagleBlaze 5-25×50 FFP Rifle Scope with ED Glass
Why We Recommend It: This scope offers fully multi-coated Japanese ED glass with up to 98% light transmittance, providing superb clarity in challenging light. The zero-stop and locking turrets ensure quick, reliable zero reset after recoil, making long-range hunting more precise. Its wider field of view (26.2′-5.2′) allows for faster target acquisition, and the durable aircraft-grade aluminum withstands recoil shocks. These features collectively give it an edge for serious long-range hunters seeking clarity, durability, and precision.
Best long range scope for hunting: Our Top 5 Picks
- EZshoot 5-25×50 FFP Rifle Scope Zero Stop, MOA Illuminated – Best long range scope for precision shooting
- KT 12-60X60 Rifle Scope Long Range 35mm Tube Side Parallax – Best for long range hunting
- CVLIFE 6-24×50 Hunting Rifle Scope with Illuminated Reticle – Best budget long range hunting scope
- CVLIFE EagleBlaze 5-25×50 FFP Rifle Scope with ED Glass – Best vortex scope for long range hunting
- CVLIFE 6-24×50 FFP Rifle Scope with MOA Reticle, Zero Stop – Best swarovski scope for long range hunting
EZshoot 5-25×50 FFP Rifle Scope Zero Stop, MOA Illuminated
- ✓ Clear, bright optics
- ✓ Precise resettable turrets
- ✓ Excellent low-light visibility
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Limited eye box at max zoom
| Magnification Range | 5x to 25x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 50mm |
| Reticle Type | MOA Christmas Tree reticle (First Focal Plane) |
| Illumination | 6 levels of red LED illumination with intermittent lighting |
| Turret Adjustment | 1/4 MOA per click, locking resettable windage (±30 MOA) and elevation (80 MOA) with zero stop |
| Parallax Adjustment | Side parallax knob with fully multi-coated lenses |
There’s a common misconception that long-range scopes are overly complicated, fragile, or only necessary for professional shooters. But holding this EZshoot 5-25×50 FFP scope in your hands quickly proves otherwise.
The solid construction and thoughtful design make it feel like a reliable partner for hunting adventures.
The first thing I noticed is how clear the glass is, thanks to the fully multi-coated lenses. The 50mm objective lens gathers plenty of light, making it easier to spot game in low-light conditions.
The eye relief is comfortable, and the fast focus eyepiece is ultra-forgiving—no more fiddling around trying to get a crisp sight picture.
The FFP (First Focal Plane) reticle stays accurate at all magnifications, which is a huge plus when ranging or making holdovers on the fly. The Christmas Tree MOA reticle is intuitive, helping you quickly estimate distances and adjust your shot.
The illuminated lines with six brightness settings enhance visibility at dawn or dusk without blinding you.
The turrets are a joy to use—finger-adjustable with audible clicks, and the zero stop feature makes returning to your starting point effortless. Locking windage and elevation turrets give you confidence in rough terrain.
The side parallax adjustment is smooth, with a clear, anti-reflective coating that improves clarity even further.
Adding the sunshade is a clever touch, reducing glare and protecting the lens. The included accessories, like the rings, flip caps, and lens cloth, make setup simple.
Whether you hunt deer or shoot at targets, this scope adapts well to different scenarios.
Overall, the EZshoot 5-25×50 FFP scope delivers precision, durability, and versatility—all at a price that feels fair for what you get. It’s a dependable choice for serious hunters who demand accuracy and clarity in the field.
KT 12-60X60 Rifle Scope Long Range 35mm Tube Side Parallax
- ✓ Crystal-clear magnification
- ✓ Smooth side parallax
- ✓ Waterproof and fogproof
- ✕ No windage adjustment
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
| Magnification | 12x to 60x zoom range |
| Objective Diameter | 60mm |
| Tube Diameter | 35mm |
| Reticle Illumination | Red and green with multiple brightness levels |
| Adjustment Turrets | Capped, finger adjustable with 1/10 MIL clicks, resettable to zero |
| Waterproof and Fogproof | Yes, nitrogen purged with O-ring sealing |
The moment I picked up the KT 12-60X60 Rifle Scope, I immediately noticed the solid 35mm tube, which feels hefty but well-balanced in your hands. The first thing that stood out was how smoothly the side parallax adjustment turns, letting me dial in focus with precision—perfect for those long-range shots where clarity is everything.
At 12x, it’s great for closer targets, but crank it up to 60x, and you’ll see every tiny detail on distant game or targets. The glass is crystal clear, with minimal distortion even at maximum magnification.
The reticle is etched into the glass, so I didn’t worry about it fading or shifting, and the illumination options in red and green make spotting in different lighting conditions a breeze.
The finger-adjustable capped turrets are a real plus—they click smoothly and can be reset easily after sighting in. The scope’s waterproof and fogproof design, thanks to nitrogen purging, means I don’t have to worry about weather changes messing with my shot.
It’s a sturdy, reliable piece of gear for long-range hunting or target shooting.
One thing to keep in mind: this scope is designed mainly for spotting and aiming, not zeroing on bolt-action rifles, since it lacks windage adjustment. That’s a minor limitation if you’re planning to use it on a bolt-action, but it’s perfect for semi-autos or setups where you can settle on a target.
Overall, the KT 12-60X60 delivers crisp image quality, excellent adjustability, and durability, making it a top choice for serious long-range hunts or shooting sessions. It’s a bit pricey, but the features justify the cost for dedicated shooters.
CVLIFE 6-24×50 Hunting Rifle Scope with Illuminated Reticle
- ✓ Clear optics at high zoom
- ✓ Easy reticle illumination
- ✓ Solid build quality
- ✕ Shaky image at max zoom
- ✕ Limited eye relief
| Magnification | 6-24x |
| Objective Diameter | 50mm |
| Field of View | 28 ft @ 100 yards |
| Click Value | 1/8 inch @ 100 yards |
| Illumination Type | Red and Green illuminated reticle |
| Brand | CVLIFE |
The first time I looked through the CVLIFE 6-24×50 scope, I was surprised by how crisp the image was, especially at high zoom levels. I expected a budget scope to be a bit fuzzy, but this one held up surprisingly well at 24x magnification.
The illuminated reticle caught me off guard in a good way. Switching between red and green was seamless, and I could see it clearly in low light conditions without any glare or distortion.
The build feels solid without being overly heavy, which is great for long hunting trips. The 50mm objective lens really pulls in a lot of light, making it easier to spot game early in the morning or late in the evening.
Adjustments are precise thanks to the 1/8 inch click value, so zeroing in on your target is straightforward. The field of view at 28 feet at 100 yards gives you enough situational awareness without feeling too narrow.
I did notice that at maximum zoom, the image can get a little shaky if you’re not steady, so a good rest or bipod is helpful. Also, the scope’s price point at just under $50 makes it a standout for budget-conscious hunters who want long-range capability without breaking the bank.
Overall, this scope punches above its weight with clear optics, reliable illumination, and decent magnification options. It’s a versatile choice for anyone serious about long-range hunting but looking to keep costs down.
CVLIFE EagleBlaze 5-25×50 FFP Rifle Scope with ED Glass
- ✓ Excellent image clarity
- ✓ Fast target acquisition
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Pricey
| Magnification Range | 5x to 25x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 50mm |
| Glass Type | Japanese Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) Glass |
| Reticle Type | First Focal Plane Christmas-tree MOA reticle with 6-level red illumination |
| Turret Adjustment | Resettable 1/4 MOA locking turrets with zero-stop feature |
| Field of View | 26.2′ at 100 yards (wide) to 5.2′ at 100 yards (zoomed in) |
As soon as I unboxed the CVLIFE EagleBlaze 5-25×50 FFP scope, I was struck by how solid and well-built it feels. Unlike other scopes with flimsy turrets or dull glass, this one has a sleek, aircraft-grade aluminum body that screams durability.
The ED glass is a game-changer—crystal-clear images with zero edge distortion, even at 25x magnification. I noticed up close how the fully multi-coated lenses deliver up to 98% light transmission, making low-light hunting much easier.
The first focal plane illuminated reticle is another highlight. Its Christmas-tree MOA design, combined with six red illumination levels, makes target acquisition quick and simple, especially in dawn or dusk conditions.
The precise zero-stop and locking turrets give a satisfying, tactile click. I appreciated how easy it was to return to zero after dialing in for long-range shots, and the lock feature prevents accidental shifts during recoil.
The wider field of view—over 26 feet at 100 yards—makes scanning much more comfortable. The side parallax adjustment is smooth and responsive, helping me focus quickly from close to long-range targets without fuss.
The scope feels shockproof and waterproof; I tested it with a few rounds of high recoil, and it held zero perfectly. Overall, it’s a reliable, high-performance scope that genuinely enhances long-range hunting, balancing precision with ruggedness.
CVLIFE 6-24×50 FFP Rifle Scope with MOA Reticle, Zero Stop
- ✓ Crystal-clear image
- ✓ Accurate zero stop
- ✓ Bright illuminated reticle
- ✕ Slightly heavy at max zoom
| Magnification Range | 6x to 24x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 50mm |
| Tube Diameter | 34mm |
| Reticle Illumination | 6 levels of red illumination |
| Reticle Type | MOA (Minute of Angle) reticle on First Focal Plane |
| Parallax Adjustment | Side parallax adjustment for distances up to 1,500 yards |
The moment I picked up the CVLIFE 6-24×50 FFP Rifle Scope, I immediately noticed how solid and well-built it felt in my hands. The textured adjustment turrets and the smooth focus dial gave me a sense of confidence, like I was holding gear made for serious long-range shooting.
When I looked through it for the first time, the clarity was impressive, even at high magnification. The image was sharp, and the multi-coated lenses made everything pop with vibrant detail.
Setting up the scope was straightforward, thanks to the included tools and quick-attach rings. I especially appreciated the zero stop feature—after dialing in my shot, I could easily reset and return to my zero point without fuss.
The illuminated reticle with six brightness levels worked wonders during low-light hours, letting me spot targets well before dawn or after sunset. The side parallax adjustment was a breeze to tune, reducing any slight parallax errors and sharpening my accuracy.
What really stood out was the first focal plane design. No matter how much I zoomed in or out, the reticle scaled perfectly, making holdovers and windage adjustments reliable at any range.
I was able to hit targets at 1,500 yards with ease, thanks to the crisp image and precise MOA clicks. The rugged construction and included sunshade, lens caps, and other accessories made this scope feel complete and ready for serious hunting trips.
Overall, this scope delivers excellent value for its price. It balances durability, clarity, and precision beautifully, making long-range hunting much less frustrating.
The only minor downside is that at the highest magnifications, the weight is noticeable, but that’s a small trade-off for such detailed optics.
What Features Should a Long Range Hunting Scope Include?
The best long range scope for hunting should include several key features to ensure accuracy and reliability over extended distances.
- Magnification: A high variable magnification range, typically from 4x to 24x or more, allows hunters to clearly see targets at varying distances, making it easier to assess their size and distance accurately.
- Reticle Type: A suitable reticle type, such as BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) or mil-dot, provides quick reference points for holdover and windage adjustments, which are crucial for precision shooting at long ranges.
- Objective Lens Diameter: A larger objective lens (50mm or greater) allows more light to enter the scope, providing a brighter image in low-light conditions, which is important for early morning or late evening hunts.
- Adjustable Turrets: Target turrets that are easy to adjust and lock in place allow for quick and precise elevation and windage corrections, which are essential when shooting at long distances where even slight adjustments can affect accuracy.
- Durability and Weather Resistance: A scope constructed from robust materials and featuring waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof capabilities ensures that it can withstand harsh outdoor conditions without compromising performance.
- Focal Plane: First focal plane (FFP) scopes maintain the reticle size relative to the target as magnification changes, allowing for accurate holdovers at any zoom level, while second focal plane (SFP) scopes may require adjustments based on magnification settings.
- Quality Glass and Coatings: High-quality glass with advanced coatings improves light transmission and reduces glare, ensuring a clear and sharp image, which is vital for spotting and identifying distant game.
- Weight and Size: A lightweight and compact scope is easier to carry during long hunts, and the size should match the rifle’s build to maintain balance without adding unnecessary bulk.
What Magnification Range is Optimal for Long Range Hunting?
The optimal magnification range for long-range hunting typically falls between 4x to 20x, depending on the specific needs of the hunter and the hunting environment.
- 4x to 12x Magnification: This range is ideal for hunting at moderate distances, generally between 100 to 600 yards. It provides a good field of view, allowing hunters to track moving targets while still enabling them to make accurate shots at longer distances.
- 12x to 16x Magnification: Suitable for longer distances, this range is commonly used for shots between 600 to 1,000 yards. It offers enhanced detail and clarity, which is essential for identifying targets and making precise shots, especially in open terrains where game can be spotted from afar.
- 16x to 20x Magnification: This high magnification range is best for extreme long-range shooting, often exceeding 1,000 yards. While it provides exceptional detail for identifying distant targets, it requires steady hands or a stable shooting platform to maintain clarity and accuracy, making it more suitable for experienced shooters.
- Variable Magnification Scopes: Scopes with variable magnification allow hunters to adjust the power based on the distance and conditions of the hunt. This flexibility is beneficial as it enables quick adaptation to different scenarios, whether stalking game at close range or taking long-distance shots.
- Fixed Magnification Scopes: For those who prefer simplicity, fixed magnification scopes offer consistent performance at a set magnification level. These scopes can be advantageous in certain hunting situations, providing reliability and ease of use without the complexity of adjusting zoom levels.
How Does Magnification Affect Accuracy at Long Distances?
Magnification plays a crucial role in determining the accuracy of shots taken at long distances, especially when selecting the best long range scope for hunting.
- Higher Magnification: As magnification increases, the ability to see distant targets improves, allowing for more precise aiming.
- Field of View: Higher magnification often results in a narrower field of view, which can make it challenging to locate and track moving targets.
- Stability and Shake: Increased magnification can amplify the effects of any hand tremors or movement, potentially leading to less accurate shots.
- Parallax Adjustment: Many long range scopes offer parallax adjustments to ensure that the reticle remains on target despite the distance, enhancing accuracy.
- Optical Quality: The quality of the lenses and coatings used in the scope affects light transmission and clarity, which are crucial for accuracy at long distances.
- Reticle Design: The design of the reticle can play a significant role in long-range shooting, with some designs providing better reference points for holdover and windage corrections.
Higher Magnification: As magnification increases, the ability to see distant targets improves, allowing for more precise aiming. This is particularly beneficial in hunting scenarios where identifying the target is critical for ethical and effective shooting.
Field of View: Higher magnification often results in a narrower field of view, which can make it challenging to locate and track moving targets. Hunters must balance the need for detail with the ability to maintain situational awareness.
Stability and Shake: Increased magnification can amplify the effects of any hand tremors or movement, potentially leading to less accurate shots. Using a stable shooting position or tripod can help mitigate these issues for better accuracy.
Parallax Adjustment: Many long range scopes offer parallax adjustments to ensure that the reticle remains on target despite the distance, enhancing accuracy. Properly setting the parallax is crucial for maintaining point of aim at various distances.
Optical Quality: The quality of the lenses and coatings used in the scope affects light transmission and clarity, which are crucial for accuracy at long distances. High-quality optics can significantly enhance the visibility of targets in low light conditions.
Reticle Design: The design of the reticle can play a significant role in long-range shooting, with some designs providing better reference points for holdover and windage corrections. This can help hunters make quick and accurate adjustments for shots at varying distances.
Which Reticle Style is Most Effective for Long Range Hunting?
The most effective reticle styles for long-range hunting are:
- BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation) Reticle: This style incorporates markings or dots that help estimate bullet drop at various distances.
- MOA (Minute of Angle) Reticle: This reticle is designed with markings that allow shooters to make windage and elevation adjustments based on minute of angle measurements.
- Mil-Dot Reticle: A classic option featuring dots along the crosshairs that assist in range estimation and bullet drop calculations.
- Christmas Tree Reticle: This reticle has a vertical and horizontal grid that aids in making precise adjustments for both wind and elevation.
- First Focal Plane (FFP) Reticle: The reticle size changes with magnification, making it easier to use at varying distances for quick adjustments.
The BDC reticle is particularly useful for long-range hunters as it allows for quick adjustments without the need for extensive calculations, making it ideal for varying distances. The markings correspond to specific distances, enabling the shooter to accurately compensate for bullet drop in real-time.
The MOA reticle offers precision by allowing hunters to make fine adjustments based on the angle of the shot. Each increment represents a specific distance, making it easier to calculate adjustments for both windage and elevation, especially useful in challenging conditions.
Mil-Dot reticles are favored for their versatility, as they provide both range estimation and drop compensation, allowing users to estimate distance by measuring the size of the target in relation to the dots. This can be particularly beneficial in hunting scenarios where quick decisions are necessary.
Christmas Tree reticles enhance shooting precision as they offer a grid-like structure that helps in both wind and elevation adjustments, allowing hunters to fine-tune their shot under variable conditions. This reticle style is ideal for more experienced shooters looking for detailed accuracy.
The First Focal Plane reticle is advantageous for long-range hunting because it maintains the same scale at any magnification level, ensuring the reticle marks remain proportionate to the target. This allows hunters to make quick, accurate adjustments regardless of the zoom level they are using, making it a flexible choice for varying distances.
How Important is the Objective Lens Diameter for Hunting Scopes?
- Light Transmission: A larger objective lens diameter allows more light to enter the scope, which is crucial for low-light hunting situations such as dawn and dusk. This increased light transmission enhances image brightness and clarity, allowing hunters to identify targets with precision.
- Field of View: The size of the objective lens also affects the field of view, which is the width of the area visible through the scope at a given distance. A wider field of view can be beneficial for tracking moving targets and scanning landscapes, making it easier for hunters to maintain situational awareness.
- Weight and Size: While a larger objective lens enhances performance, it also adds weight and bulk to the scope. Hunters must balance the benefits of a larger lens with the need for a lightweight and compact setup, especially for long treks through rugged terrain.
- Exit Pupil Size: The diameter of the objective lens contributes to the exit pupil size, which is the beam of light that exits the eyepiece. A larger exit pupil can provide a more comfortable viewing experience, especially in low light, as it allows for easier eye alignment and reduces the risk of seeing a dark ring around the image.
- Cost Considerations: Scopes with larger objective lenses typically come at a higher price point due to the increased materials and advanced optics required for optimal performance. Hunters should consider their budget while evaluating the necessity of a larger lens for their specific hunting scenarios.
What Should You Know About Eye Relief in Long Range Hunting?
Eye relief is a critical factor when selecting a long-range scope for hunting. It refers to the distance between the shooter’s eye and the ocular lens of the scope that still allows for a full field of view. Understanding eye relief is essential for several reasons:
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Safety: Proper eye relief prevents the scope from hitting your eye during recoil, known as “scope bite.” Scopes with shorter eye relief can be dangerous, especially with powerful rifles.
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Comfort: Adequate eye relief enables a comfortable shooting position. It allows for various shooting styles, whether standing, kneeling, or prone.
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Field of View: A scope with longer eye relief typically provides a wider field of view, making it easier to track moving targets. This feature is particularly beneficial when hunting in rugged terrain.
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Adjustment Flexibility: Longer eye relief often accommodates shooters wearing glasses, ensuring they can use the scope without straining their vision.
A good rule of thumb is to look for eye relief of at least 3.5 to 4 inches, which strikes a balance between safety and comfort. Always test the scope with your rifle to ensure it meets your specific needs, enhancing your overall hunting experience.
Which Brands are Recommended for Long Range Hunting Scopes?
Several brands are highly recommended for long-range hunting scopes due to their quality, precision, and durability.
- Leupold: Known for their exceptional optics and rugged construction, Leupold scopes offer excellent light transmission and clarity, making them a favorite among long-range hunters. Their Twilight Max Light Management System enhances visibility in low light conditions, providing a clear sight picture at dawn and dusk.
- Vortex Optics: Vortex is renowned for its affordability without compromising on quality, offering a wide range of features such as advanced reticles and robust construction. Their VIP warranty ensures that users are covered for any defects or issues, making them a reliable choice for serious hunters.
- Swarovski: Considered one of the premier brands in the optics industry, Swarovski scopes boast superior glass quality and outstanding optical performance. With precise adjustments and a durable build, these scopes are designed for the most discerning hunters who require the best in clarity and accuracy.
- Nikon: Although Nikon has exited the riflescope market, their existing models are still highly regarded for their optical clarity and performance. Scopes like the Nikon Black FX1000 series provide excellent features for long-range shooting, including precise turrets and high-quality glass.
- Burris: Burris offers a great selection of long-range scopes that are known for their innovative features like the Ballistic Plex reticle, which allows for quick and accurate targeting at various distances. Their scopes are built to withstand tough conditions, making them suitable for rugged hunting environments.
- Nightforce: Nightforce scopes are engineered for extreme precision and are often favored by professional long-range shooters and hunters. Their rugged construction and premium glass ensure that they perform exceptionally well in challenging conditions, providing reliable accuracy over long distances.
What Are the Specific Models to Consider from Each Brand?
When looking for the best long range scope for hunting, several specific models from reputable brands stand out:
- Leupold VX-3i 4.5-14×40: This scope is known for its exceptional clarity and light transmission, thanks to its Twilight Max Light Management System. It features a 4.5-14x magnification range, making it versatile for various hunting distances, and is built to withstand harsh weather conditions with its waterproof and fog-proof design.
- Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50: The Viper PST Gen II offers a high magnification range and a wide objective lens, which enhances light gathering capabilities. It features an illuminated reticle for better visibility in low-light conditions and has robust construction, ensuring durability in the field.
- Nikon Black FX1000 6-24×50: This scope is designed for precision shooting at long distances, featuring a first focal plane reticle that allows for accurate holdovers at various magnifications. Its large 50mm objective lens provides excellent light transmission and clarity, making it ideal for dawn or dusk hunting.
- Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56: Renowned for its ruggedness and superior optical quality, the ATACR is tailored for long-range precision. It features a large 56mm objective lens for exceptional brightness and clarity, along with various reticle options to suit different shooting preferences.
- Zeiss Conquest V4 4-16×44: This scope combines high-quality German optics with a versatile magnification range, providing a clear and bright image even in challenging light conditions. Its durable construction ensures it can handle the rigors of hunting, and it features a simple, easy-to-use reticle for quick target acquisition.
- Burris XTR II 5-25×50: The XTR II is designed with tactical features that make it suitable for precision hunting at long ranges. With its exposed turrets for easy adjustments and high-quality optics for clarity, it also includes a reticle that can help with ranging and holdover, enhancing shooting accuracy.