Lisa J Thompson
Cartridges that can shoot long ranges have been gaining a lot of popularity in the last couple of years than ever. However, you should have the right scope if you want to bring out the maximum potential of these guns. There will come a time in the future where you will need something more than what standard sights can offer whether you are an amateur hunter or professional shooter. That’s where the best long range scopes come in.
However, the current market is saturated with numerous long range scopes. Each of these long range scopes comes with different features, specifications, and prices. This means that you will always have trouble picking the right long range scope for your needs. In this guide, you will be able to know everything about long range scopes. You can use this guide to help you choose the best long range scope for your shooting needs.
Reviews of the Best Long Range Scopes
Schmidt Bender PMII 5-25*56l Long Range Scope
This long range scope has a good reputation for being one of the best long range scopes. Additionally, it is one of the most popular choices for police and military snipers. People who have used this amazing product have been claiming that it sets the industry standard for quality and reliability.
Are you a serious shooter? You will definitely love this long range scope. It comes with a wide range of adjustments. Away from that, the turn turrets are arguably the best in the industry. Furthermore, the adjustments in this long range scope are crisp and easy to feel.
The best thing about this product is that you can choose from a wide range of reticle designs. All these reticles will be adequate at lower magnifications. At about 25* magnification, you will have a beautiful well lit sight picture.
The image clarity is another impressive thing about this product. Unlike other cheap long range scopes, this product uses high quality glass and an advanced optical coating. This will maximize the scope light gathering ability. In turn, you will have a crisp and bright resolution.
Pros
- Crisp and bright resolution.
- It uses advanced optical coating.
Cons
- It is a bit pricey.
Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen Ii Long Range Scope
When it comes to long range scopes, Vortex Optics is considered as one of the heavy hitters. Additionally, this product will produce respectable optics at a price most people will manage to squeeze their budget. As you purchase this long range scope, you should be guaranteed that it will deliver considerable value for the money.
This long range scope is manufactured with brilliant glass quality. Furthermore, it features an extra low dispersion glass. Furthermore, it joins other popular long range scopes with fully multi coated lenses. You will definitely get the type of crisp resolution you have been looking for. The color fidelity provided by this reliable long range scope can only be seen from a more expensive optic.
As a long range shooter, there is no doubt you will appreciate laser etched turrets and adjustable parallax. The tactical style turrets featured in this long range scope will deliver clean and audible clicks with the right amount of resistance. These turrets will never disappoint even if you are a turret snob.
The highly regarded Viper PST boasts of detailed illuminated FFP reticle. It will shine at maximum magnification. Although it may be cluttered for some shooters, you will appreciate this long range scope in the extreme distance.
Pros
- It boasts of a detailed illuminated FFP reticle.
- It is manufactured with brilliant glass quality.
Cons
- Zero quality control.
Vortex Optics Diamond Tactical First Focal Plane Riflescopes
It is important to keep in mind that this Diamond Scope provide us with the same quality you would expect a top tier long range scope to have. Additionally, it comes with the recent innovation and technologies. Also, Diamond Optics is the first long range scope to have zoom settings with 24 times and a 50mm objective lens.
Furthermore, the popular long range scope uses extra low dispersion. Another notable feature that the maker could not forget to include is the multi-coated lenses. That being said, you should expect a sight picture that is second to none.
The reticle in this long range scope is etched on the glass. This adds stability and quality. Moreover, the enhanced hash marks will help users estimate wind-age and elevation even when scoped in. Plus, this long range scope is constructed with durable aircraft aluminum material. With that in mind, you should be guaranteed that it will work efficiently in foggy conditions. Both the side parallax knob and tactical turrets are exposed. This allows users to compensate for these effects especially when taking long distance shots.
Last but not least, this long range scope is equipped with a precision glider erector system. You will have an easy time swapping the zoom settings. The main function of the fast focus feature is to allow you to focus on your target quickly. This will happen even after meeting back to get a broader view of the surrounding environment.
Pros
- The tactical reticle is etched onto the glass.
- All the lenses in this long range scope are multi-coated and excellent.
Cons
- The turrets can’t be locked.
Vortex Optics Razor Hd Gen Ii Long Range Scope
This long range scope is manufactured with a reticle on the first focal plane. This feature allows the users to adjust regardless of how long you zoom in or out. Additionally, the shorter zoom maximum means that it is the perfect choice for hitting up close and personal targets. Furthermore, it has appeared on every list of the best long range scopes for its locking turret system. It is one of the most important features in this long range scope since it prevents you from accidentally changing your elevation values.
Last but not least, the visual rotation indicator enables you to track your revolutions with great ease. Moreover, the low dispersion and high quality glass make this long range scope a better product. It is one of the best long range scopes with the exception of the rather cheap lens caps. Overall, it is a perfect piece of equipment that will be worth any asking price.
Pros
- It comes with an excellent illuminated reticle.
- The reticle is etched on the glass.
Cons
- The lens is not very good.
Zeiss Conquest V4 Long Range Scope
Besides being a classic product, it is a functional long range scope that can be zoomed with a 50mm objective lens. Additionally, it features a reticle on the second focal plane. Away from that, the reticle comes with multiple layers of transmission coatings. This will improve the color and resolution across the spectrum.
Furthermore, this product features a decent eye box. The eye box allows you to acquire your target with great ease. Moreover, this long range scope is manufactured with high quality aircraft grade aluminum. Last but not least, it can be used in any type of weather. The matte finish will reduce visibility when hunting. It is very quick to change between the magnifications settings.
When it comes to the zero stop turrets, they offer a critical function for any long distance sniper. This means that it is possible to reset the elevation values back to zero.
Pros
- The turrets are well manufactured.
- Lens coatings are great.
Cons
- You can easily adjust the turrets.
Trijicon TR23 Accupoint 5-20*50 Long Range Scope
Do you know that this long range scope can go further than any other scope we have reviewed? It has been designed to provide a magnification of up to 50x. Additionally, it enables you to hit long distance shots. The top long range scope is the perfect choice for hunting or target shooting.
Furthermore, this scope is bolstered by extra low dispersion glass. You will be able to sight picture with true colors. Away from that, the lenses in this long range scope are multi coated. This will eliminate not only glare but also light loss. The body of this long range scope is constructed with high quality aluminum material. It protects it from not only the weather but also any corrosive damage. The only bad thing about this long range scope is that the reticle is located on the second plane. It can be a hard task using it given the wide range of magnification settings.
Pros
- The magnification is very smooth.
- Lenses are phenomenal.
Cons
- The reticle is clunky.
Sig Sauer 5270-0426 SOT44001 Tango4 Long Range Scope
The manufacturer is well known for its line of tactical handguns and rifles. In the last couple of years, the trusted manufacturer has extended into rifle scopes. They have won contracts in The United States of America Army and Special Operations Forces.
The Tango4 is their high powered and long range scope. This long range scope is manufactured with 24 power magnification. Additionally, it features a reliable 50mm objective lens. When compared to other long range scopes in the market, this product is priced very competitively.
This scope model is for those people who are rough on scopes. The rugged design is tough and can take a real beating. Tango4 will make you happy if you are the clumsy type or if you love to hunt in the harshest environments. Besides that, it is a dependable product that is built like a tank.
It comes with a robust design complete with a single piece main tube. Furthermore, the maker has also incorporated side focus adjustment in this scope. Last but not least, the maker provides a limited warranty. Finally, this long range scope is waterproof.
Pros
- The illuminated reticle is the perfect choice for saving battery life.
- Waterproof product.
Cons
- It only comes with SIG grey.
Steiner T5XI 5-25*56mm Long Range Scope
You can attest that long range hunting is very tricky. Even the best shooters should stay within 300 yards. However, you will have a hard time when aiming at target the size of a fist. Most animals in the wilderness have a heart no more significant than that. The Steiner GS3 is a precise long range scope that features outstanding glass. Be assured that the glass will deliver a clear and bright picture regardless of the conditions.
It is among the top long range scopes in the market that uses the highly regarded adjusted transmission coating. This makes it easy to notice an animal. It will help you see the animals regardless of how far they are.
Pros
- Lightweight.
- Single piece tube.
Cons
- No lens cover.
Sig Sauer SOT44114 Tango4 Riflescope
The 4* optical zoom comes in a 30mm one piece main tube. Additionally, it is designed with low dispersion glass that provides industry leading optical clarity for any situation. Furthermore, the multiple illuminated reticles are offered in the first focal plane.
Away from that, it features dependable waterproof that is rated for complete immersion. Also, fog-proof performance is admirable.
Pros
- Low dispersion main glass.
- Dependable waterproof.
Cons
- The quality is questionable.
Swarovski Riflescope Z3 4-12*50 Plex
Swarovski has one of the best reputations. To get this long range scope at its price range will be an absolute bargain. Although it does not have high magnifications power when compared to other scopes on this list, it will not disappoint you in long range shooting scenarios. The reticle feature will help you make adjustments for range.
Pros
- It will never disappoint in long range shooting scenarios.
- The reticle feature will help you make adjustments for range.
Cons
- They should include better illuminated reticles.
Important things to consider when purchasing the best long range scopes
Advertising around long range scopes can be misleading. Nowadays, many marketers try to get you to focus on features that differentiate them from their competitors. You probably know that choosing the best long range scope is not an easy task no matter if you are a hunter or you are just enjoying shooting for sport.
Do not worry as well if you are not experienced in this field. In this section, I will give a detailed outline of the most important things you should consider when purchasing the best long range scopes. Kindly keep in mind that the long range scope can make or break the shot. That’s the reason it is advisable to choose the most suitable scope for your needs and rifle too.
Lenses
It is arguably one of the most important features you should consider when purchasing any scope more so if you are purchasing a long range scope. It is important to choose a lens that presents a clear view of your target. It should be crisp clear both at low and high magnifications. You will need high clarity not only for an accurate shot but also to read the wind speed.
You should consider a long range scope manufactured with a good glass if you want to read the wind accurately. You will be required to look into the scopes one by one when identifying the best lens. That being said, you should go for brands that provide a high quality lens. The specific lens should perform perfectly at any range. However, it is hard to look at a scope manually, but you can look for reviews. This will help you get an impression.
Body
It goes a bit into the durability aspect of firearms. Do you know that the body can affect the optic precision? The best long range scopes are manufactured with high quality and durable material. In most cases, this is aircraft grade aluminum. Additionally, the long range scope body should be a single piece design. What does it mean? It should be made from a single piece of aluminum. This not only aids in overall durability but also in the overall optic precision.
Reticle
The reticle is quite important when it comes to long range shooting. There are numerous reticle models out there. Although most of them work well, you need a reticle with hash marks. The single dots in the reticle should be spread vertically and horizontally. These should either be MIL or MOA measurements. These reticles are helpful in using both elevations.
It is not hard to use these dots and hash marks. However, it takes a while to become an expert. They enable consistent compensation as well as elevation changes. Although some of the optics are more complicated, they essentially do the same thing. Bullet drop compensators have proved to be nice. Away from that, they are important for most medium range engagements. You will be limited to one particular load when you use bullet drop compensator.
One final note about the turret adjustments is that they ensure adjustments are in mill. It should also be the same thing for MOA adjustments. Once you start tossing rounds, this may affect close and medium range shooting.
Objective lens Size
You might be aware that a lot of people think that extremely large objective lenses are better. What does a larger objective lens mean? It means a higher level of light transmission. The more light, the better. You hit a tradeoff once you get a certain size of the objective lens. You will notice very little difference in light transmission if you purchase an objective lens past 50mm.
You need to use a higher scope mount if you purchase a larger objective lens diameter. Furthermore, you will have reduced the overall precision of your rifle if you start using high rings and high single piece mounts.
Magnification power
Many people focus on this more than anything else. We believe that the more powerful the magnification the better. Although it is very true, it all depends on your situation. You should go for your desired magnification based on your overall shooting goals. As a hunter, you will benefit from a more versatile level of magnification. The best minimum magnification for long range shooting should be about 16 power.
Focal plane
Usually, focal planes fall into two categories that include front focal and second focal plane. The reticle will change size as the magnification increases or decreases on the front focal scopes. On the other hand, the reticle remains the same size on the second focal plane optics. The dots and hash marks will need a specific zoom at the second focal plane.
Adjustment ranges
The ability to adjust the turrets has more to do with elevation adjustments rather than wind-age. Normally, turrets will adjust equally for both wind-age and elevation.
The above factors are the most important matters when it comes to precision long range scope, although there may be few options to consider depending on your rifle. You may need to have a specific scope for that if you are using a more powerful weapon like a 50 caliber. For long range shooting, you should look at lenses, adjustment range, objective lens size, and scope body.
Conclusion
Shooting long range targets can be a thrilling challenge. It does not matter whether you are busting paper bull’s-eye or you will be dropping big game animals. Long range shooting is incredibly addictive. You might be thinking that it is a quality scope that starts it all. That is not necessarily the truth. There is nothing that can beat the shooting fundamentals. After you have a strong shooting technique, it would be the right time to add a good optic.
No single long range scope no matter how perfectly it is manufactured can cater to every customer’s needs and demands. Therefore, before picking your scope, kindly make sure that the model you are purchasing has all the particular specifications that you need and want. Additionally, you should always keep your budget in mind.
I hope you enjoyed our guide today. You can bring a suggestion or ask any questions about the above products. Till next time!
