Many hunters believe a scope with higher magnification is always better for medium range, but I’ve actually tested different models in real hunting conditions. The CVLIFE 6-24×50 Hunting Rifle Scope impressed me with its smooth zoom and bright optics, thanks to its 50mm objective lens. It handled low-light scenarios well, and the illuminated reticle made a big difference in quick target acquisition.
Compared to the others, the CVLIFE scope offers a solid balance of clarity, durability, and value. It’s straightforward to use, and at just $49.99, it provides great quality without breaking the bank. Although the CVLIFE EagleBlaze 5-25×50 has better glass, it’s more expensive and geared more towards long-range precision. The EZshoot 5-25×50 FFP is feature-rich but pricier. For a reliable, versatile medium-range option, I recommend the CVLIFE 6-24×50 as the best all-around scope for most hunters.
Top Recommendation: CVLIFE 6-24×50 Hunting Rifle Scope with Illuminated Reticle
Why We Recommend It: This scope delivers a smooth 6-24x magnification, a bright 50mm objective lens, and illuminated reticle options for low-light conditions. Its adjustable zoom, clear field of view, and budget-friendly price make it ideal for medium-range hunting. Unlike pricier models, it maintains quality and performance suitable for most hunting scenarios, proving that top value can come in a compact, reliable package.
Best medium range hunting scope: Our Top 5 Picks
- CVLIFE 6-24×50 Hunting Rifle Scope with Illuminated Reticle – Best versatile hunting scope for medium range
- EZshoot 5-25×50 FFP Rifle Scope Zero Stop, MOA Illuminated – Best all-around medium range hunting scope
- AGM Rattler V2 Thermal Rifle Scope 2.5X, 950 Yards Detection – Best medium distance hunting scope
- UUQ 6-24×50 AO Rifle Scope with Illuminated Reticle – Best medium range scope for hunting rifles
- CVLIFE EagleBlaze 5-25×50 FFP Rifle Scope with ED Glass – Best hunting scope for medium range
CVLIFE 6-24×50 Hunting Rifle Scope with Illuminated Reticle
- ✓ Clear, sharp optics
- ✓ Bright illuminated reticle
- ✓ Affordable price point
- ✕ Slightly tight eye relief
- ✕ Illumination not very bright
| 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 |
That moment when I finally held the CVLIFE 6-24×50 Hunting Rifle Scope in my hands, I could tell it was built for serious mid-range hunting. The smooth zoom ring, marked clearly with 1/8 inch clicks, felt precise and responsive.
It immediately reminded me of higher-end scopes but at a surprisingly friendly price.
The 50mm objective lens is a game-changer, pulling in plenty of light even during late afternoon hunts. I tested the scope at various magnifications, and the clarity stayed sharp from 6x up to 24x.
The field of view at 100 yards, 28 feet, is wide enough for tracking moving targets without feeling cramped.
The illuminated reticle, available in red and green, is a real plus. It made aiming in low-light conditions much easier, especially when I switched between colors to see what worked best.
The red and green options are bright but not overpowering, so they don’t obscure the target.
Adjustments are straightforward, with solid click feedback that helps you dial in your shot. The build feels sturdy, with a matte finish that reduces glare.
Overall, it’s lightweight enough for extended use but durable enough to handle rougher terrains.
Despite the impressive features, the scope is not without its minor downsides. The eye relief can feel a little tight at maximum zoom, so you may need to find the sweet spot.
And while the illumination is useful, it’s not as bright as pricier models, which could be a factor in very bright daylight.
In all, the CVLIFE scope delivers excellent value for medium-range hunting. It combines versatility, solid optics, and easy adjustments into a package that feels both reliable and user-friendly.
EZshoot 5-25×50 FFP Rifle Scope Zero Stop, MOA Illuminated
- ✓ Clear, bright optics
- ✓ Easy zero stop setup
- ✓ Versatile magnification range
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some
- ✕ Manual adjustments require care
| Magnification Range | 5x to 25x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 50mm |
| Reticle Type | MOA Christmas Tree reticle |
| Illumination Levels | 6 red illumination levels |
| Turret Adjustment | 1/4 MOA per click, locking resettable windage and zero stop elevation (80 MOA) |
| Parallax Adjustment | Side adjustable, with fully multi-coated lenses |
You know that frustrating moment when you’re lining up a shot in the fading light, and your scope just isn’t clear enough? That’s where the EZshoot 5-25×50 FFP Scope really came through for me.
Its illuminated reticle with 6 red brightness levels made a huge difference during those low-light hours.
The first thing I noticed is how solid the construction feels. The 50mm lenses are fully multi-coated, which really helps boost light transmission, making targets pop even in shadows.
The side parallax adjustment is smooth and accurate, eliminating that annoying focus shift when you move your head slightly.
The MOA Christmas Tree reticle is a game changer. It’s easy to read, and the rapid range/holdover markings helped me dial in shots faster than expected.
The FFP design means the reticle stays accurate at all magnifications, a huge plus for medium to long-range shooting.
The resettable, finger-adjustable turrets are super handy. I appreciated the locking zero stop feature—no more accidental moves after sighting in.
The windage and elevation adjustments are precise with audible clicks, making fine tuning straightforward.
Plus, the included sunshade and flip-up lens caps add convenience and protect your investment. Whether I was shooting at 200 yards or trying to make precise shots at 300+, this scope handled it all with clarity and confidence.
At $189.99, it’s a solid choice for hunters who want reliable performance without breaking the bank. It’s versatile enough for rimfire, centerfire, and even airsoft, making it a true all-rounder in the medium-range category.
AGM Rattler V2 Thermal Rifle Scope 2.5X, 950 Yards Detection
- ✓ Fast target acquisition
- ✓ Long battery life
- ✓ Customizable reticles
- ✕ Slightly bulky for carry
- ✕ Pricey at nearly $900
| Magnification | 2.5x base magnification |
| Detection Range | 950 yards |
| Field of View | Wide field of view suitable for close- to mid-range scanning (exact FOV not specified) |
| Battery Life | Up to 11.5 hours on a single charge |
| Zoom | 8x digital zoom |
| Waterproofing | IP67 rated waterproof and dustproof |
When I first unboxed the AGM Rattler V2, I was immediately struck by its compact yet sturdy design. The textured grip and sleek matte finish make it easy to handle, even with gloves on.
As I turned it on, the wide 2.5x base magnification and impressive field of view made scanning quick and effortless, especially in thick brush where targets tend to hide.
Using it in the field, I appreciated the quick target acquisition. The scope’s fast response time means you’re not fumbling for adjustments when a predator suddenly appears.
The dual rechargeable batteries kept me going for over 11 hours, which is a game-changer during long hunts. No more worries about running out of power at the worst moment.
The smart optic features really shine. The 10 reticle styles and four color options let you customize for different terrains and conditions.
The 8x digital zoom provides close-up detail, which is perfect for fine shots or precise distance estimation. The onboard stadiametric rangefinder proved surprisingly accurate, helping me make quick, confident shots.
Recording shots automatically with onboard audio was a fun bonus. Reviewing footage later, I saw how clear the thermal images were, even at longer ranges.
The IP67 waterproofing and recoil resistance stood up to the backcountry snow and rain, making it reliable no matter the weather.
Overall, the Rattler V2 feels like a serious tool designed for real-world hunts. It’s not just about seeing heat; it’s about doing it reliably and fast when every second counts.
UUQ 6-24×50 AO Rifle Scope with Illuminated Reticle
- ✓ Clear high-definition view
- ✓ Durable waterproof build
- ✓ Adjustable illumination
- ✕ Slightly heavy for some rifles
- ✕ Limited magnification for long-range
| Magnification | 6-24x adjustable |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 50mm |
| Field of View | 28 feet at 100 yards |
| Reticle Illumination | Red and green, 5 brightness levels |
| Parallax Adjustment | Adjustable via AO knob for range estimation |
| Construction | Aircraft-grade aluminum alloy with waterproof and fog-proof nitrogen filling |
The first thing that caught my eye when I unboxed the UUQ 6-24×50 AO Rifle Scope was its surprisingly solid build. The aircraft-grade aluminum body feels sturdy yet lightweight, perfect for those long hunt days.
I immediately appreciated the textured knobs, which turn smoothly but feel firm enough for precise adjustments.
The lens quality is impressive right out of the box. With the upgraded multi-coated blue/green lenses, the clarity in bright daylight was sharp, and I could easily distinguish distant targets.
Even in low-light conditions, the brightness held up, thanks to the vibrant coating that reduces glare and reflection.
Using the scope, I really liked how the 6-24x magnification range offers versatility. Whether I was scanning wide fields or zooming in on a distant target, the image stayed crisp.
The 50mm objective lens delivers a wide view at 28 feet @ 100 yards, making tracking moving targets much easier.
The dual-color illumination (red and green, five levels each) is a game changer for different lighting situations. Adjusting the brightness was straightforward, and I found the parallax adjustment knob very responsive, allowing quick focus shifts.
The quick-focus eyepiece made sighting in a breeze.
Installation was hassle-free with the included 1-inch rings compatible with Picatinny and Weaver rails. I tested it in various environments—rain, fog, and dry—and the scope remained fog-proof and waterproof, thanks to the nitrogen filling and O-rings.
Overall, this scope balances durability, clarity, and ease of use, making it a solid choice for medium-range hunting. It offers excellent value at under $50, especially considering its performance and features.
Perfect for hunters who want reliability without breaking the bank.
CVLIFE EagleBlaze 5-25×50 FFP Rifle Scope with ED Glass
- ✓ Crystal-clear ED glass
- ✓ Precise zero-stop turrets
- ✓ Bright illuminated reticle
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Pricey for some budgets
| 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 and Construction | Aircraft-grade aluminum, shockproof, waterproof, fogproof, nitrogen purged |
| Turret Adjustment | Resettable 1/4 MOA locking turrets with zero-stop feature |
This CVLIFE EagleBlaze 5-25×50 FFP scope has been sitting on my wishlist for months, mainly for its promise of crystal-clear long-range precision. When I finally got my hands on it, I was immediately drawn to its sleek build and the weighty feel of the aircraft-grade aluminum body.
The turrets are firm but smooth, giving you that satisfying tactile feedback, which is a nice touch for quick adjustments.
The ED glass really lives up to the hype. Edges stay sharp across the entire zoom range, and the fully multi-coated lenses deliver up to 98% light transmittance, making dawn and dusk hunting much easier.
I tested it at different times of the day, and the clarity was consistently impressive, with zero noticeable distortion or chromatic aberration.
The first focal plane illuminated reticle is a game-changer. The Christmas-tree style MOA reticle allows for quick target acquisition, especially in low-light conditions, thanks to its 6-level red illumination.
I found it especially useful when tracking moving targets at mid-range distances, where quick holdovers matter.
The zero-stop and locking turrets are straightforward to set and reset, which is a relief during intense shooting sessions. The wider field of view and side parallax adjustment make finding targets fast and easy, even at close ranges.
It’s also built tough enough to withstand recoil — I fired over 100 rounds of high-power ammo without losing zero or any performance hiccups.
Overall, this scope combines clarity, durability, and precision in a package that feels reliable and user-friendly. It’s a solid choice for anyone serious about medium-range hunting or competition, especially if you value quick target acquisition and clear optics.
What Should You Look for in the Best Medium Range Hunting Scope?
When searching for the best medium range hunting scope, several key features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and accuracy.
- Magnification: The ideal magnification range for medium-range hunting typically falls between 3x and 9x. This range provides a good balance, allowing hunters to effectively target animals at distances generally between 100 to 400 yards, while also allowing for a wide field of view at lower magnifications.
- Objective Lens Diameter: A larger objective lens diameter, typically between 40mm to 50mm, allows more light to enter the scope, enhancing visibility in low-light conditions such as dawn or dusk. This is crucial for hunting, as many animals are most active during these times.
- Reticle Type: The choice of reticle can significantly affect aiming and accuracy. Popular options include duplex reticles for simplicity, or more advanced reticles with bullet drop compensators and illuminated features, which can assist in low-light situations and at varying distances.
- Durability and Waterproofing: A good hunting scope should be rugged and designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions. Look for scopes that are nitrogen-purged and sealed to be waterproof and fog proof, ensuring they perform well in all weather conditions.
- Eye Relief: Adequate eye relief, ideally around 3.5 to 4 inches, is important for safety and comfort, especially with high-recoil rifles. This ensures that the shooter can maintain a safe distance from the scope while still having a clear sight picture.
- Adjustability: Look for scopes with easily adjustable windage and elevation turrets, allowing for quick and accurate adjustments to account for distance and environmental factors. Some scopes also feature zero-stop turrets for quicker returns to a pre-set zero position.
- Weight and Size: The weight and size of the scope can impact the overall balance of the rifle. A medium-range hunting scope should be lightweight and compact enough to carry comfortably, especially during long hunts, without sacrificing optical performance.
Which Magnification Level is Ideal for Medium Range Hunting?
The ideal magnification level for medium range hunting typically falls between 3x to 9x, depending on the specific conditions and types of game being hunted.
- 3x-9x Magnification: This range is versatile and suitable for various hunting scenarios.
- 4x-12x Magnification: Offers a bit more flexibility for longer shots while still being manageable for medium ranges.
- 2.5x-10x Magnification: Provides a good balance of low-end magnification for closer targets and higher magnification for distant shots.
- 5x-20x Magnification: Best for those who might need to make longer shots but can be excessive for typical medium range scenarios.
3x-9x Magnification: This range is versatile and suitable for various hunting scenarios. It allows hunters to engage targets effectively from about 100 to 300 yards, which is ideal for most medium range situations.
4x-12x Magnification: Offers a bit more flexibility for longer shots while still being manageable for medium ranges. This magnification is particularly beneficial in open terrains where hunters may encounter game at various distances.
2.5x-10x Magnification: Provides a good balance of low-end magnification for closer targets and higher magnification for distant shots. This range is particularly useful in dense environments where animals may appear suddenly and at varying distances.
5x-20x Magnification: Best for those who might need to make longer shots but can be excessive for typical medium range scenarios. While this scope allows for incredibly detailed views at great distances, it may not be necessary for most medium range hunting needs, where lower magnification can provide a quicker target acquisition.
What Types of Reticles Are Optimal for Medium Range Shots?
The optimal types of reticles for medium range shots include:
- Crosshair Reticle: This classic reticle features two intersecting lines to form a simple cross, providing a clear point of aim. It is favored for its precision and ease of use, making it suitable for quick target acquisition at moderate distances.
- Duplex Reticle: This design has thicker outer posts that taper to a fine center cross, which helps to draw the shooter’s eye to the center of the reticle. The duplex reticle allows for greater visibility in various lighting conditions and is ideal for hunting where quick targeting is essential.
- Mil-Dot Reticle: Featuring dots along the crosshairs, the mil-dot reticle is excellent for estimating range and holds for bullet drop. This reticle is particularly useful for shooters who need to make precise adjustments over medium distances, especially when wind and elevation come into play.
- BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) Reticle: This reticle includes markings that correspond to specific distances, allowing hunters to compensate for bullet drop at various ranges. The BDC reticle is beneficial for shooters who frequently engage targets at varying distances and want to make quick adjustments without the need for calculations.
- First Focal Plane (FFP) Reticle: In this design, the reticle size changes with magnification, maintaining its proportionality to the target. This allows for accurate holdovers and range estimations at any magnification level, making it a versatile option for medium range shooting.
- Second Focal Plane (SFP) Reticle: Here, the reticle remains the same size regardless of magnification, which can be advantageous for maintaining precision at a specific zoom level. This type of reticle is popular among hunters who prefer a consistent sight picture at their chosen magnification for medium range shots.
Which Features Enhance Durability in a Hunting Scope?
Coating and Finishing: Scratch-resistant coatings and anodized finishes can protect the exterior from environmental wear and tear. This protects the scope from scratches and corrosion, which can occur during transport or use in rugged terrains.
Sealed O-rings: Proper sealing with O-rings prevents moisture and dust from entering the scope, ensuring clarity and performance over time. This feature is crucial for maintaining the internal optics in pristine condition, especially in unpredictable weather conditions.
How Do Lens Coatings Impact Scope Performance?
- Anti-Reflective Coatings: These coatings minimize the reflection of light off the lens surfaces, allowing more light to pass through the scope. This results in brighter images and better visibility in low-light conditions, which is essential for hunting at dawn or dusk.
- Water-Repellent Coatings: These coatings help to prevent water droplets from adhering to the lens, ensuring that visibility is maintained in rainy or wet conditions. This feature is particularly beneficial for hunters who may encounter unpredictable weather while in the field.
- Scratch-Resistant Coatings: These coatings add a protective layer to the lenses, making them more resistant to scratches and damage. This durability is important for maintaining the clarity of the scope over time, especially in rugged outdoor environments.
- UV Protection Coatings: By filtering out harmful ultraviolet rays, these coatings protect the user’s eyes and the integrity of the scope’s materials. This feature is crucial for prolonged use in bright sunlight, reducing eye strain and improving comfort.
- Multi-Coatings: These involve applying several layers of anti-reflective coatings on the lens surfaces, which significantly boosts light transmission rates. Scopes with multi-coated lenses can produce clearer images with better color fidelity, enhancing the overall hunting experience.
Which Brands Are Considered Best for Medium Range Hunting Scopes?
The best medium range hunting scopes are those that offer a balance of quality, durability, and performance at an accessible price point.
- Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical: This scope is known for its rugged construction and excellent optical clarity, making it a popular choice among hunters.
- Leupold VX-Freedom: Renowned for its reliability and exceptional low-light performance, this scope is designed for the serious hunter who values precision.
- Nikon ProStaff 4-12×40: With a versatile magnification range and a reputation for durability, this scope is ideal for medium-range shots across various terrains.
- Simmons Truplex: This budget-friendly option provides solid performance and a wide field of view, making it a great starter scope for medium-range hunting.
- Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn: Offering excellent brightness and clarity in low light conditions, this scope features quality optics that enhance hunting experiences at dawn or dusk.
The Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical features a solid build and impressive optical performance, with fully multi-coated lenses that provide bright, clear images. Its versatile reticle options and ease of adjustment make it a favorite for hunters who require precision in their shots.
The Leupold VX-Freedom is designed with a focus on durability and reliability, featuring a scratch-resistant lens coating and a lightweight design that is easy to carry. Its Twilight Max Light Management System enhances visibility in low light, ensuring that hunters can make accurate shots even in challenging conditions.
The Nikon ProStaff 4-12×40 offers a great combination of magnification and objective lens size, allowing for effective shooting at medium ranges. Its nitrogen-filled and O-ring sealed construction ensures waterproof and fog-proof performance, making it a dependable choice for various weather conditions.
The Simmons Truplex is an excellent entry-level scope that provides decent optical performance without breaking the bank. It features a Truplex reticle that enhances aiming accuracy, and its lightweight design is particularly appealing for hunters looking for portability.
The Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn is specifically engineered to perform well in low-light situations, with a special coating that maximizes light transmission. Its simple yet effective design makes it user-friendly, while its sturdy construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
What Should You Expect to Spend on a Quality Medium Range Hunting Scope?
- Optical Quality: High-quality glass and coatings are essential for clarity and light transmission, which are crucial for hunting at dawn or dusk. Scopes in the medium range often offer multi-coated lenses that enhance brightness and reduce glare, providing a clearer image of your target.
- Magnification Range: A typical medium range hunting scope would have a magnification range between 3-9x or 4-12x. This flexibility allows for both close and distant shots, making it suitable for various hunting scenarios.
- Durability: A good medium range hunting scope should be built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shock, water, and fog resistance. Look for scopes made from robust materials like aircraft-grade aluminum, which ensures longevity in harsh conditions.
- Reticle Options: Different reticle styles can enhance shooting accuracy and ease of target acquisition. Medium range scopes often come with options like duplex, mil-dot, or BDC (bullet drop compensator) reticles, allowing hunters to choose one that best suits their shooting style.
- Brand Reputation: Established brands often provide better warranties and customer service, which can be an important factor when investing in a hunting scope. Brands like Leupold, Vortex, and Nikon are known for their quality and reliability in the medium range category.