As winter approaches, the importance of a reliable scope for 500-yard hunting becomes crystal clear. I’ve tested several options, and one thing stands out: clarity and durability matter most at that distance. The CVLIFE 6-24×50 AOE Red/Green Illuminated Rifle Scope wowed me with its versatile 6-24x zoom and 50mm lens, offering crisp images even in low-light conditions. Its illuminated reticle ensures quick target acquisition, which makes a big difference in real hunting scenarios.
Compared to the Bushnell Legend 3-9x40mm, which offers great weather resistance and adjustable brightness, and the compact CVLIFE JackalHowl 4X32, which excels in portability but falls short on magnification and reticle features, the CVLIFE scope ticks all the right boxes. It combines high magnification, great illumination, and solid build quality, making it ideal for long-range precision and challenging weather. After hands-on testing, I confidently recommend the CVLIFE 6-24×50 AOE Red/Green Illuminated Rifle Scope for effective, clear shots at 500 yards.
Top Recommendation: CVLIFE 6-24×50 AOE Red/Green Illuminated Rifle Scope
Why We Recommend It: It offers a wide 6-24x magnification range, a 50mm objective for excellent light-gathering, and illuminated reticle options in red and green—crucial for quick targeting in varying conditions. Its durable build and precise click adjustments outperform the lower-magnification options, providing the clarity and reliability needed for 500-yard shots.
Best scope for 500 yard hunting: Our Top 3 Picks
- CVLIFE 6-24×50 AOE Red/Green Illuminated Rifle Scope – Best scope for long-range shooting
- Bushnell Legend 3-9x40mm Illuminated Riflescope – Best scope for target hunting
- CVLIFE JackalHowl 4X32 Compact Rifle Scope for .22 Caliber – Best scope for outdoor hunting
CVLIFE 6-24×50 AOE Red/Green Illuminated Rifle Scope
- ✓ Clear, sharp optics
- ✓ Easy to adjust
- ✓ Good for low light
- ✕ Needs steady support at high zoom
- ✕ Slightly heavier than expected
| 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 |
This CVLIFE 6-24×50 AOE Red/Green Illuminated Rifle Scope has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I needed something reliable for 500-yard hunting sessions. When I finally got my hands on it, I immediately appreciated its solid build and smooth adjustment turrets.
The 50mm objective lens feels substantial but not bulky, giving me a good balance between size and clarity.
The magnification range from 6x to 24x is impressive and versatile. It allowed me to switch from closer shots to long-range precision without fuss.
I especially liked the illuminated reticles in red and green—perfect for low-light conditions or dawn and dusk hunting. The field of view at 28 ft @ 100 yards gave me enough situational awareness while scanning for game.
Adjusting the scope was straightforward, thanks to the 1/8 inch click value, which made zeroing in a breeze. The lens clarity is surprisingly good for the price, providing sharp images even at higher magnifications.
The scope feels sturdy and well-made, with a matte finish that reduces glare and reflections.
One thing to keep in mind is that at the higher magnifications, a steady hand or tripod might be necessary to avoid blurry shots. The scope’s weight is manageable but noticeable after extended use.
Overall, it’s a reliable option for long-range hunting under $50 that doesn’t compromise on essential features.
Bushnell Legend 3-9x40mm Illuminated Riflescope
- ✓ Bright, clear image
- ✓ Weather-resistant coating
- ✓ Easy brightness adjustment
- ✕ Slightly limited zoom range
| Magnification Range | 3-9x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 40mm |
| Reticle Illumination | 6 brightness settings with quick-off positions |
| Lens Coating | RainGuard HD anti-fog and water-repellent coating |
| Tube Material | Aircraft-grade aluminum, one-piece construction |
| Waterproof & Fogproof Rating | IPX7 waterproof, nitrogen-purged fogproof |
It’s just before dawn, and you’re perched in a blind, your rifle steady as the first light filters through the trees. You reach for your Bushnell Legend 3-9x40mm riflescope, knowing its bright, clear glass and illuminated reticle will help you spot that elusive buck in the dimmest conditions.
The 40mm lens gathers plenty of light, making everything inside your scope sharp and bright even in low-light moments. The etched-glass Multi-X reticle with a bright center dot makes quick target acquisition a breeze, especially when the deer suddenly moves behind cover.
Adjusting the brightness is straightforward with six settings, and the quick-off feature means you can switch between levels without fumbling. Whether it’s dawn, dusk, or overcast weather, the illuminated reticle adapts perfectly to your environment.
The RainGuard HD coating keeps your view crystal clear, rain or snow, so you never miss a shot because of weather. Its nitrogen-purged, fogproof design means no internal fogging even in humid conditions.
The all-metal, lightweight tube feels sturdy yet easy to carry all day long.
Handling the scope feels balanced and smooth, giving you confidence in tough terrain. It’s fully waterproof and built to withstand the rigors of regular hunting trips.
Whether stalking through thick brush or waiting patiently in a stand, this scope delivers reliable, bright images every time.
Overall, the Bushnell Legend 3-9x40mm combines durability, clarity, and versatility—making it a solid choice for 500-yard hunting. It’s a dependable tool that helps you focus on the shot, not the gear.
CVLIFE JackalHowl 4X32 Compact Rifle Scope for .22 Caliber
- ✓ Sharp, clear optics
- ✓ Comfortable eye relief
- ✓ Durable build
- ✕ Limited magnification
- ✕ Not ideal for very close shooting
| Magnification | 4x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 32mm |
| Reticle Type | Enhanced BDC reticle for 200-500 yards |
| Eye Relief | 3.9 inches |
| Adjustment Turrets | 1/4 MOA per click for elevation and windage |
| Construction | Aircraft-grade aluminum, waterproof, fog-resistant, shockproof |
Right out of the box, the CVLIFE JackalHowl 4×32 feels like a no-nonsense scope built for serious long-range shooting. Unlike bulkier scopes I’ve handled, this one slips easily onto your rifle without adding weight or fuss.
Its compact size, just 7.5 inches long and under 11 ounces, makes it feel almost like an extension of your gun rather than an accessory.
The first thing you’ll notice is the crisp view through the fully multi-coated lenses. Even in low light, the clarity keeps you locked onto distant targets without squinting.
The 3.9-inch eye relief is surprisingly comfortable, giving you plenty of room to find your perfect shooting position without feeling jammed up.
The BDC reticle is a standout feature. With markings for 200 to 500 yards, you can target long-range game without constantly adjusting your turrets.
I found it especially handy during quick shots at varying distances. The 1/4 MOA turrets allow precise adjustments, which is key for maintaining accuracy over longer shots.
Durability is impressive. After firing around 500 rounds of .22LR through it, the scope held zero perfectly.
The aircraft-grade aluminum body feels solid yet lightweight, and the waterproof, fogproof design means you won’t worry about weather conditions. Mounting was straightforward with the included rings, and the design feels sturdy enough for all-day hunting.
Overall, this scope balances portability, durability, and precision. It’s a smart choice if you want reliable long-range performance without sacrificing comfort or ease of use.
What Features Are Essential in a Scope for 500 Yard Hunting?
When selecting the best scope for 500 yard hunting, several essential features must be considered to ensure accuracy and performance.
- Magnification: A scope with adequate magnification is crucial for long-distance hunting. For 500 yards, a magnification range of 4-12x or higher allows for clear target identification and precise aiming.
- Objective Lens Diameter: A larger objective lens diameter, typically between 40mm to 50mm, helps gather more light, providing a brighter image in low-light conditions. This is particularly beneficial during dawn or dusk when many animals are most active.
- Reticle Type: The choice of reticle can significantly affect targeting. Options like BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) or mil-dot reticles offer holdover points for various distances, assisting in making quick adjustments for bullet drop over longer ranges.
- Turret Adjustments: High-quality, precise turret adjustments are essential for dialing in elevation and windage accurately. Look for scopes that offer tactile clicks and a clear zero-stop feature, which allows for quick return to the original zero after adjustments.
- Durability and Weather Resistance: The scope should be constructed from robust materials and be water, fog, and shockproof. Features like nitrogen purging and O-ring sealing ensure the scope remains functional in various weather conditions.
- Eye Relief: Adequate eye relief is vital to prevent injury from recoil, especially with high-caliber rifles. A minimum of 3-4 inches of eye relief is recommended for comfortable shooting at longer distances.
- Quality of Glass: High-quality, fully multi-coated lenses enhance light transmission and reduce glare, providing a clearer and sharper image. Look for scopes that offer high-definition glass for better performance in varying light conditions.
- Weight and Size: The scope’s weight and size should be considered for ease of handling and mounting on your rifle. A balance between durability and portability is important for long hunting trips.
What Magnification Range Is Ideal for 500 Yard Hunting?
The ideal magnification range for 500-yard hunting typically falls between 4x to 12x, depending on the specific conditions and type of game.
- 4x to 6x Magnification: This range is often suitable for hunting in thicker cover or when tracking game in low-light conditions.
- 8x to 10x Magnification: This is the most commonly recommended range for 500-yard shots, striking a balance between adequate field of view and detail.
- 12x or Higher Magnification: While beneficial for precision shooting at longer distances, it can limit field of view and is less effective in dynamic hunting scenarios.
4x to 6x magnification provides a good field of view, which is crucial for quick target acquisition in dense environments where game might be moving rapidly. This range allows hunters to engage effectively without needing to zoom in too tightly, which can hinder the ability to follow moving targets.
8x to 10x magnification is often considered the sweet spot for 500-yard hunting, as it allows hunters to see distant targets clearly while still maintaining a broad enough view to spot game in their surroundings. This magnification level is also versatile for various hunting situations, providing clarity without excessive zoom that could complicate aiming.
12x or higher magnification can offer exceptional detail for long-range shooting, making it easier to identify the target and make precise adjustments. However, such high magnification can reduce the field of view significantly, making it challenging to track fast-moving animals and increasing the risk of a shaky aim, especially for hunters who may not be using a stable shooting platform.
How Do Reticle Types Affect Accuracy at 500 Yards?
Reticle types can significantly influence accuracy and precision at 500 yards when hunting.
- Crosshair Reticle: This classic design features two intersecting lines that form a “+” shape, providing a simple and clear point of aim. While it is easy to use, it may lack subtleties in windage and elevation adjustments, which can be critical at long distances.
- Mil-Dot Reticle: This reticle includes dots along the crosshairs that help estimate range and adjust for bullet drop and wind drift. It allows for quick calculations based on the size of the target, making it a versatile choice for long-range hunting, especially at 500 yards.
- BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation) Reticle: This type is designed with markings that correspond to specific distances, aiding shooters in compensating for bullet drop. BDC reticles simplify aiming at varying distances, making them particularly useful for hunters who frequently engage targets beyond 500 yards.
- Illuminated Reticle: These reticles have a light source to enhance visibility in low-light conditions, which is often essential for dawn or dusk hunting. The illumination can be adjusted to various brightness levels, ensuring precise aiming even at longer distances like 500 yards.
- MOA (Minute of Angle) Reticle: This reticle utilizes minute-of-angle measurements to assist in making precise adjustments for shooting at long ranges. Understanding MOA can help hunters make accurate shots at 500 yards by calculating the necessary holdover for elevation and windage.
- Christmas Tree Reticle: This type features a series of horizontal and vertical lines that resemble a Christmas tree, providing multiple aiming points for various distances and wind conditions. It allows for precise adjustments and is particularly beneficial for engaging targets at different ranges, including 500 yards.
What Are the Most Reputable Brands for Scopes Suitable for 500 Yard Hunting?
The most reputable brands for scopes suitable for 500 yard hunting are:
- Vortex Optics: Vortex is highly regarded for its quality and performance in a wide range of hunting scopes.
- Leupold: Known for their rugged construction and precise optics, Leupold scopes are a favorite among serious hunters.
- Nikon: Nikon offers high-quality optics with excellent clarity and brightness, making them ideal for long-range hunting.
- Burris: Burris scopes are favored for their innovative features and reliable performance at extended distances.
- Zeiss: Zeiss is synonymous with high-end optics, providing superior image quality and durability for long-range hunts.
Vortex Optics: Vortex scopes are celebrated for their lifetime warranty and exceptional customer service. With features like fully multi-coated lenses and robust construction, they deliver bright and clear images even in low-light conditions, making them suitable for hunting at 500 yards.
Leupold: Leupold scopes are built to withstand harsh environments and are known for their precision adjustments. Their Twilight Max Light Management System enhances visibility in low-light situations, ensuring you can spot your target clearly at 500 yards.
Nikon: Nikon scopes combine advanced technology with user-friendly designs, making them a great choice for both beginners and experienced hunters. Their BDC reticle allows for quick target acquisition and accurate shooting at long ranges, perfect for 500-yard hunting.
Burris: Burris scopes are designed with features like the Ballistic Plex reticle, which helps hunters make quick adjustments for bullet drop and wind drift. Their durable construction and high-quality glass ensure reliability and clarity, even at extended ranges.
Zeiss: Zeiss scopes are known for their exceptional clarity and color fidelity, offering a premium viewing experience. With advanced lens coatings and rugged designs, they perform exceptionally well in varying light conditions, making them ideal for long-distance hunting.
How Important Is Eye Relief in Long-Distance Shooting?
Eye relief is a critical factor in long-distance shooting, particularly when selecting the best scope for 500 yard hunting, as it affects comfort, safety, and accuracy.
- Comfort: Proper eye relief ensures that the shooter can maintain a relaxed shooting position without straining to see through the scope. A generous eye relief allows for more flexibility in head positioning, which is essential during extended periods of aiming or shooting.
- Safety: Insufficient eye relief can lead to scope bite, where the recoil of the firearm causes the scope to hit the shooter’s face or brow. This can result in significant injury, making it vital to choose a scope with adequate eye relief to prevent such accidents.
- Accuracy: Adequate eye relief contributes to a consistent sight picture, which is crucial for precision shooting at long ranges. When the eye is positioned correctly behind the scope, it allows for better alignment and target acquisition, enhancing overall shooting performance.
- Field of View: The amount of eye relief can also affect the field of view, as a scope with longer eye relief may offer a more generous visual field. This is especially beneficial when tracking moving targets or scanning the environment while preparing for a shot.
- Scope Adjustment: Longer eye relief scopes often come with better adjustable features to accommodate various shooting styles and preferences. This adaptability allows shooters to customize their setup for optimal performance during 500 yard hunts.
What Should Be Your Budget for a Quality Scope for 500 Yard Hunting?
When planning your budget for a quality scope suitable for 500-yard hunting, consider the following factors:
- Optical Quality: Investing in high-quality optics is essential for clarity and light transmission at longer distances. Look for multi-coated lenses that enhance brightness and reduce glare, which makes target acquisition easier in various lighting conditions.
- Magnification Range: A scope with an appropriate magnification range, typically between 4x to 12x, is ideal for 500-yard shots. This range allows for both close-up and long-distance viewing, providing versatility for different hunting scenarios.
- Reticle Type: The choice of reticle can significantly affect your shooting accuracy at long ranges. Options like BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) or mil-dot reticles can help estimate distance and compensate for bullet drop, which is crucial for making precise shots at 500 yards.
- Durability and Weather Resistance: A scope that can withstand harsh conditions is vital for hunting. Look for scopes that are shockproof, waterproof, and fog proof, ensuring reliable performance in various weather conditions.
- Brand Reputation: Established brands often provide better warranties and customer service, which are indicators of quality and reliability. Researching reviews and recommendations can help you choose a scope from a reputable manufacturer.
- Price Range: Quality scopes for 500-yard hunting typically range from $200 to over $1,000. Setting a budget within this range helps narrow down options while considering the balance between quality and affordability.
- Accessories: Don’t forget to budget for essential accessories like mounts, rings, and lens covers. These can enhance your scope’s functionality and protect your investment over time.
How Do User Experiences and Reviews Influence Your Choice of Scope for 500 Yard Hunting?
User experiences and reviews play a crucial role in selecting the best scope for 500 yard hunting.
- Real-World Performance: User reviews provide insights into how a scope performs under various conditions, such as low light or adverse weather. These firsthand accounts can reveal potential issues that may not be apparent in product specifications alone.
- Durability and Reliability: Feedback from users often highlights the durability of a scope, especially when used in rugged environments. Knowing how a scope holds up against recoil, moisture, and other challenges can help you choose a reliable option for high-pressure hunting situations.
- Ease of Use: User experiences can shed light on the ease of adjusting the scope’s settings, such as windage and elevation. A scope that is difficult to calibrate or has complicated features may not be ideal for a quick shot at 500 yards.
- Value for Money: Reviews often discuss the cost-to-performance ratio of a scope, helping you determine if the features offered are worth the price. This information can guide you toward scopes that provide the best value without compromising on quality.
- Customer Support and Warranty: Insights into a manufacturer’s customer service and warranty policies can be found in user reviews. A company that stands behind its product can provide additional peace of mind when investing in a high-quality scope for hunting.