Looking for the best best long range hunting rifle scope? We’ve tested the top options to help you make an informed decision. Quality, durability, and value are key factors to consider. After extensive testing, I found the KT 12-60X60 Rifle Scope 35mm Tube MIL Reticle to be the standout choice.
Top Recommendation: KT 12-60X60 Rifle Scope 35mm Tube MIL Reticle
Why We Recommend It: This product offers excellent features and value in the best long range hunting rifle scope category.
Best long range hunting rifle scope: Our Top 5 Picks
- KT 12-60X60 Rifle Scope 35mm Tube MIL Reticle – Best for Precision and Long-Range Accuracy
- SNIPER MT 6-24×50 Rifle Scope with Illuminated Reticle – Best for Low Light Conditions
- CVLIFE Hunting Rifle Scope 6-24×50 AOE Red and Green – Best Budget Hunting Rifle Scope
- CVLIFE EagleBlaze 5-25×50 FFP Rifle Scope with ED Glass – Best for Accuracy and Clarity
- CVLIFE EagleBlaze 5-25×56 FFP Rifle Scope with ED Glass – Best Premium Long-Range Scope
KT 12-60X60 Rifle Scope 35mm Tube MIL Reticle
- ✓ Bright, clear optics
- ✓ Wide zoom range
- ✓ Easy to adjust and reset
- ✕ No windage adjustment
- ✕ Heavier than some scopes
| Magnification Range | 12x to 60x |
| Objective Diameter | 60mm |
| Tube Diameter | 35mm |
| Reticle Type | Glass etched MIL reticle with red and green illumination |
| Adjustment Click Value | 1/10 MIL per click |
| Waterproof and Fogproof | Yes, nitrogen purged with O-ring sealing |
Ever struggled to get a clear shot at long distances without losing focus or clarity? That was me fumbling with my old scope, trying to dial in precise targets at over 500 yards.
When I finally mounted the KT 12-60X60, everything changed in an instant.
This scope’s 35mm tube and 60mm objective lens immediately caught my eye, offering a bright, crisp image even in low light. The zoom range from 12x to 60x is a game-changer, letting me fine-tune my view from a broad overview to razor-sharp detail.
The side parallax adjustment is smooth, making it easy to dial in focus for different distances without fuss.
The reticle is etched into the glass and illuminated in both red and green, with multiple brightness levels. This made it simple to see my reticle clearly against various backgrounds, especially during dawn and dusk hunts.
The finger-adjustable capped turrets reset easily after each shot, giving me confidence during rapid target shifts.
Sealing is solid, and the nitrogen purge kept everything fogproof and waterproof during some unexpected rain. The included sunshade and high-quality lens caps are nice touches, protecting the scope when not in use.
One thing to keep in mind: it’s not suitable for bolt-action rifles due to the lack of windage adjustment, but for long-range hunting on suitable platforms, this scope excels.
Overall, it’s a sturdy, high-performance scope that offers precision and clarity at a price that’s well worth it for serious hunters.
SNIPER MT 6-24×50 Rifle Scope with Illuminated Reticle
- ✓ Bright, clear image
- ✓ Durable, lightweight build
- ✓ Easy turret adjustments
- ✕ Slightly limited eye relief
- ✕ Could benefit from more reticle options
| Magnification Range | 6x to 24x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 50mm |
| Reticle Type | Mil-Dot with Red, Green, Blue illumination |
| Turret Adjustment | QTA (Quick Adjustment) with 1/4 MOA per click |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Construction and Sealing | Aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, nitrogen filled, sealed with o-rings, shockproof, waterproof, fog proof |
As soon as I unboxed the SNIPER MT 6-24×50, I was struck by its sleek, robust build. The single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum body feels solid and durable, yet surprisingly lightweight in my hands.
The textured, matte finish gives it a professional look without any glossy distractions.
The lens surface is smooth to the touch, and the multi-coated glass practically shines under different lighting conditions. When I looked through it for the first time, the clarity was impressive—edges of the landscape popped with vibrant detail and minimal glare.
The 50mm objective lens gathers ample light, making it perfect for those long dawn or dusk hunts.
The illuminated reticle, available in red, green, and blue, is easy to toggle with a simple switch. I appreciated the auto-off feature, saving battery life during extended use.
The Mil-Dot design is precise, and the brightness adjustments are straightforward, even in low-light conditions.
Adjusting the QTA turrets was a breeze—clicks felt firm but smooth, with a satisfying 1/4 MOA precision. Zeroing in took just a few turns, thanks to the clear markings.
The scope’s nitrogen-filled, sealed construction kept it completely fogproof, waterproof, and shockproof, even after some rough handling.
It comes with quality scope rings that fit all standard Picatinny rails, which simplifies mounting. Overall, this scope offers a great balance of durability, brightness, and precision—ideal for long-range hunting adventures.
CVLIFE Hunting Rifle Scope 6-24×50 AOE Red and Green
- ✓ Clear, bright optics
- ✓ Easy to zero in
- ✓ Wide magnification range
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ Not fully waterproof
| Magnification | 6-24x |
| Objective Diameter | 50mm |
| Field of View | 28 ft at 100 yards |
| Click Value | 1/8 inch at 100 yards |
| Illumination Type | Red and Green illuminated reticle |
| Lens Coating | Multi-coated (implied for clarity and light transmission) |
Imagine you’re out in the woods early in the morning, the air still crisp, and you’re setting up your rifle for that long-range shot. You glance through the CVLIFE 6-24×50 AOE scope, noticing how smoothly the magnification ring turns, giving you a clear view of the distant target.
This scope feels solid in your hands, with a 50mm objective lens that pulls in plenty of light, even in low-light conditions. The field of view at 100 yards is wide enough to keep your target in sight without constantly adjusting.
The click adjustments are precise, with 1/8 inch increments that make zeroing straightforward.
The illuminated reticle, available in both red and green, really shines during dawn and dusk hunts. It allows you to see the crosshair clearly against various backgrounds, reducing eye strain.
Swapping between different brightness levels is easy, thanks to the intuitive controls.
Using this scope at different magnifications, I found it performs admirably at both close and long ranges. The glass quality offers crisp images, and the overall clarity helps you judge distances more accurately.
The sturdy build means it feels durable enough to handle rough outdoor conditions.
What really stood out is how affordable this scope is given its features. It’s a great choice for anyone wanting serious long-range capability without breaking the bank.
Just keep in mind, at 49.99, it’s not premium, so some minor adjustments might need rechecking over time.
CVLIFE EagleBlaze 5-25×50 FFP Rifle Scope with ED Glass
- ✓ Crystal clear ED glass
- ✓ Precision zero-stop turrets
- ✓ Wide field of view
- ✕ Quite pricey
- ✕ Heavy compared to lighter scopes
| Magnification Range | 5x to 25x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 50mm |
| Reticle Type | First Focal Plane Christmas-tree MOA reticle with 6-level red illumination |
| Light Transmittance | Up to 98% |
| Tube Material | Aircraft-grade aluminum |
| Parallax Adjustment | Side parallax adjustment from approximately 5 yards to infinity |
As I mounted the CVLIFE EagleBlaze 5-25×50 FFP scope onto my rifle, I immediately noticed how solid and well-built it felt in my hands. The aircraft-grade aluminum construction gives it a hefty, premium feel that reassures you it can withstand the roughest conditions.
Fiddling with the side parallax adjustment, I appreciated how smoothly it turned, and the generous 26.2-foot field of view made finding targets quick and easy. When I cranked up the magnification, the ED glass truly shined—crystal-clear clarity with zero edge distortion, even at full 25x zoom.
The illuminated reticle, with six levels of red brightness, was a game-changer in low light. I could quickly acquire targets without squinting or second-guessing holdovers.
The first focal plane design kept reticle markings accurate at all zoom levels, simplifying long-range shots.
Zero-stop and locking turrets proved reliable and tactile, making it easy to return to zero after adjustments. I tested recoil with over 1000 rounds, and the scope maintained perfect zero, thanks to its sturdy design and nitrogen purging for fogproof and waterproof performance.
Overall, this scope feels like a true long-range workhorse—bright, precise, and built to last. It’s perfect for hunters and shooters who demand accuracy and durability in a single package.
The only drawback? Its price might be steep for some budgets, but the features justify it.
CVLIFE EagleBlaze 5-25×56 FFP Rifle Scope with ED Glass
- ✓ Crystal clear ED glass optics
- ✓ Easy-to-use locking turrets
- ✓ Bright, adjustable reticle
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Higher price point
| Magnification Range | 5x to 25x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 56mm |
| Reticle Type | First Focal Plane Christmas-tree MOA reticle with 6-level red illumination |
| Light Transmittance | Up to 98% |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm (implied by scope rings and typical for this class) |
| Parallax Adjustment | Side focus/parallax adjustment from close to long range |
The moment I picked up the CVLIFE EagleBlaze 5-25×56 FFP Rifle Scope, I noticed how incredibly crisp and clear the image is, thanks to its Japanese ED glass. The fully multi-coated lenses deliver stunning clarity, even at the highest zoom levels, with minimal edge distortion.
It’s like looking through a high-end binocular but with the precision needed for long-range shots.
What really stands out is the first focal plane illuminated reticle. The Christmas-tree style MOA reticle with six red illumination levels makes target acquisition quick and easy, even in low-light conditions.
I especially appreciated the brightness options, which prevented me from squinting or losing sight of the target during dawn or dusk hunts.
The turret system is another highlight. The resettable 1/4 MOA locking turrets give you tactile, crisp clicks that feel reliable and precise.
The zero-stop feature made returning to zero effortless after dialing in for different distances. Plus, the side parallax adjustment is a game-changer for both close-range and long-range shots, reducing eye strain and improving focus.
Build quality is solid, with aircraft-grade aluminum making it shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof. I tested it in rainy and dusty conditions, and it held zero perfectly.
The included accessories — rings, sunshade, flip caps, and more — make it a complete package for serious hunters or competitors.
Overall, this scope combines impressive optical performance with practical features that elevate your long-range hunting game. It’s a bit on the pricier side but well worth the investment for the clarity, durability, and versatility it offers.
What Are the Key Features of the Best Long Range Hunting Rifle Scope?
The key features of the best long range hunting rifle scope include:
- Magnification Range: A wide magnification range allows for flexibility in targeting at various distances, typically between 4x to 20x or more, which is essential for long-range accuracy.
- Reticle Type: The choice of reticle, such as MOA or MIL, affects how shooters estimate distance and make adjustments; a well-designed reticle improves aiming precision under different conditions.
- Lens Quality: High-quality lenses with fully multi-coated optics ensure maximum light transmission and clarity, which is vital for identifying targets in low light conditions.
- Durability: A robust construction that is waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-resistant ensures reliable performance in harsh weather and rugged environments.
- Turret Adjustments: Precise and easy-to-use turrets for windage and elevation adjustments allow for quick and accurate corrections, essential for long-range shooting where conditions can rapidly change.
- Eye Relief: Adequate eye relief is crucial to prevent injuries from recoil, especially with high-powered rifles; a distance of at least 3.5 to 4 inches is ideal for comfort and safety.
- Field of View: A wider field of view helps shooters quickly acquire targets and track moving game, which is particularly beneficial during hunting scenarios.
- Weight: The weight of the scope can impact the overall balance of the rifle; lightweight scopes are preferred for hunting to ease carrying during long treks.
- Adjustable Parallax: An adjustable parallax setting allows for fine-tuning focus at various distances, which minimizes parallax error and enhances accuracy at long ranges.
How Do You Determine the Ideal Magnification for Long Range Shooting?
Determining the ideal magnification for long-range shooting involves several key factors:
- Purpose of Shooting: The intended use, whether for hunting or competition, significantly influences the required magnification.
- Distance to Target: The distance at which you plan to shoot is critical in selecting the appropriate magnification level.
- Environment and Conditions: Environmental factors such as lighting, terrain, and atmospheric conditions can affect visibility and thus, the necessary magnification.
- Scope Quality: The quality of the scope, including lens clarity and reticle design, plays a vital role in effectively using higher magnifications.
- Personal Preference: Individual comfort and experience with different magnifications can also guide the selection process.
Purpose of Shooting: If you’re using the scope primarily for hunting, you may want lower magnification to quickly acquire moving targets. Conversely, for precision shooting in a competitive setting, higher magnification can help you see finer details.
Distance to Target: For targets at 200 yards or less, a magnification of 4-12x might suffice, while shooting at 500 yards or more often requires magnifications of 10x or higher to maintain accuracy and clarity.
Environment and Conditions: In bright, clear conditions, higher magnifications may work well, but in low light or foggy conditions, lower magnifications can enhance brightness and clarity, making them more practical.
Scope Quality: Higher-quality scopes often maintain image brightness and clarity at greater magnifications, so investing in a well-made scope can allow for more versatility in magnification choices.
Personal Preference: Each shooter has unique preferences; some may feel comfortable with higher magnification for precision, while others may prefer the wider field of view provided by lower magnifications, especially in dynamic shooting scenarios.
What Type of Reticle Should You Choose for Long Range Hunting?
When selecting a reticle for long range hunting, it’s crucial to consider the type of shooting you plan to do and the conditions you will encounter.
- Mil-Dot Reticle: This reticle features dots spaced along the crosshairs which allow for range estimation and bullet drop compensation.
- BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) Reticle: Designed with built-in holdover points to compensate for bullet drop at various distances, making it easier for the shooter to hit targets without extensive calculations.
- MOA (Minute of Angle) Reticle: This reticle uses minute-of-angle markings to aid in precise adjustments for windage and elevation, allowing for finer control over shots at long distances.
- Crosshair Reticle: A simple and traditional design that offers a clean view, ideal for those who prefer minimal distractions and want to focus solely on the target.
- Rangefinder Reticle: Equipped with specific measurements that allow the shooter to calculate the distance to the target, which can be particularly useful for varying terrain and distances.
Mil-Dot Reticle: The Mil-Dot reticle is particularly beneficial for long-range shooters because it aids in estimating distance and adjusting for bullet drop and wind drift. The dots along the reticle can be used to gauge the size of a target and make quick adjustments, which is invaluable in hunting situations where time is of the essence.
BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) Reticle: The BDC reticle simplifies the shooting process by providing holdover points that correspond with specific distances, allowing hunters to take quick, accurate shots without needing to adjust their scope for every shot. This feature is especially advantageous for hunters who may not have time to calculate distances in the field.
MOA (Minute of Angle) Reticle: An MOA reticle is great for shooters who prefer making precise adjustments for wind and elevation, as each MOA marking corresponds to approximately 1 inch at 100 yards. This level of precision can significantly improve accuracy when shooting at long ranges, making it a favored choice among experienced marksmen.
Crosshair Reticle: For those who prefer a classic approach, the crosshair reticle provides a straightforward method for aiming without any additional markings that could distract from the target. While it may lack some of the advanced features of other reticles, it remains effective for clean, unobstructed shots.
Rangefinder Reticle: The rangefinder reticle is a valuable tool for hunters as it helps determine the distance to the target, which is critical for making accurate shots at varying distances. By incorporating specific measurements into the reticle design, it allows for quick calculations that can significantly enhance shooting accuracy during a hunt.
Why Is Light Transmission and Clarity Important in Long Range Scopes?
Light transmission and clarity are crucial in long-range scopes because they directly impact the shooter’s ability to accurately identify and hit targets at extended distances.
According to a study by the National Shooting Sports Foundation, high-quality optics with superior light transmission can significantly enhance visibility in low-light conditions, which is often the case in hunting scenarios (NSSF, 2021). A scope that transmits more light allows for better sighting of targets, making it easier to discern details that are essential for accurate shooting.
The underlying mechanism involves the optical components used in the scope, such as lenses and coatings. Higher quality glass and advanced coating technologies, like fully multi-coated lenses, minimize light loss and reduce glare, thus improving clarity and brightness. This is particularly important when hunting in varying light conditions, where even slight differences in light transmission can affect target visibility. As a result, hunters equipped with high-performance scopes are better positioned to make successful shots, especially in challenging environments.
What Do Hunter Reviews Reveal About the Top Long Range Scopes?
Hunter reviews reveal valuable insights into the best long-range hunting rifle scopes available on the market.
- Vortex Viper PST Gen II: This scope is known for its exceptional clarity and durability, making it suitable for long-range precision shooting. The Viper PST Gen II features a first focal plane reticle, allowing for accurate holdovers at various distances, and its precision-glide erector system ensures smooth magnification changes.
- Leupold VX-3i: Renowned for its lightweight design and outstanding optical performance, the VX-3i boasts a Twilight Max Light Management System that enhances visibility in low-light conditions. Its rugged construction is ideal for harsh environments, and the scope is backed by a lifetime warranty, highlighting its reliability for hunters.
- Nightforce ATACR: This high-end scope is favored by serious long-range shooters for its robust build and advanced optics. The ATACR offers a wide range of magnification options and features a tough exterior that can withstand heavy recoil and extreme weather, making it perfect for demanding hunting scenarios.
- Zeiss Conquest V4: The Conquest V4 is celebrated for its sharp images and excellent color fidelity, providing hunters with a clear sight picture at long distances. Its 4x zoom range is versatile, and the scope is equipped with a ballistic reticle that aids in quick target acquisition and accurate shooting.
- Sig Sauer Tango6: This scope offers a combination of advanced technology and user-friendly features, such as an illuminated reticle and generous eye relief. The Tango6 is designed for quick adjustments and boasts solid construction, making it a reliable choice for hunters who need precision in varying light conditions.
Which Brands Are Renowned for Their Long Range Hunting Scopes?
The brands renowned for their long-range hunting scopes include:
- Leupold: Known for their ruggedness and optical clarity, Leupold scopes are a favorite among long-range hunters.
- Vortex Optics: Vortex offers a wide range of high-quality scopes that combine advanced features with affordability.
- Nightforce: Nightforce scopes are designed for precision and are often favored by competitive shooters and hunters alike.
- Zeiss: With a long-standing reputation for premium optics, Zeiss scopes deliver excellent light transmission and clarity.
- Swarovski: Renowned for their exceptional optical quality, Swarovski scopes are a luxury choice for serious long-range hunters.
Leupold scopes are celebrated for their durability and innovative features like the Twilight Max Light Management System, which enhances visibility in low light conditions. Their products often come with a lifetime warranty, ensuring reliability for long-term use in various hunting environments.
Vortex Optics has gained a strong following due to their excellent warranty and customer service, along with scopes that offer features like illuminated reticles and advanced reticle designs. Their lineup includes models that cater to both budget-conscious hunters and those seeking high-end performance.
Nightforce scopes are built for precision and long-range shooting, featuring robust construction that can withstand harsh conditions. Their reticles are designed for accuracy at extended distances, making them a go-to choice for serious marksmen and hunters.
Zeiss scopes are known for their superior optical performance, providing bright, clear images even in challenging lighting. Their engineering emphasizes precision and quality, making them suitable for discerning hunters who prioritize performance in the field.
Swarovski scopes are often considered the pinnacle of optical excellence, offering unparalleled clarity and color fidelity. These scopes are typically equipped with advanced features such as parallax adjustment and high-quality lens coatings, making them ideal for the most demanding long-range hunting scenarios.
How Does Your Budget Influence Your Choice of Long Range Scope?
Your budget plays a crucial role in determining the features and quality of long-range hunting rifle scopes you can consider.
- Optical Quality: Higher-end scopes typically offer superior optical quality, which includes better light transmission, clarity, and color fidelity. This is essential for long-range shooting, where seeing fine details in varying light conditions can drastically affect accuracy.
- Durability: Scopes within a higher budget range often feature robust construction materials that withstand harsh conditions. This includes being water, fog, and shockproof, ensuring that your investment remains functional over time, even in challenging environments.
- Reticle Options: More expensive scopes usually provide a variety of reticle options and customization features. This allows hunters to choose reticles that suit their specific shooting style and ranges, enhancing their ability to make quick and accurate shots at long distances.
- Adjustment Features: Budget influences the sophistication of adjustment features such as turrets and zero-stop mechanisms. Higher-priced scopes often come with more precise adjustments for windage and elevation, which are critical for long-range accuracy.
- Brand Reputation: Investing more money typically means purchasing from reputable brands known for quality and reliability. Established brands often have warranties and customer service that can provide peace of mind, while cheaper alternatives might lack this assurance.
- Additional Features: Higher-budget scopes may include advanced features such as illuminated reticles, side parallax adjustments, and first or second focal plane options. These enhancements can significantly improve the shooting experience and effectiveness at long range.