Best Long Range Rifle Scope in 2023

In this guide, I’m going to show you the best long range rifle scope, so you can finalize the best one for you.

I’ve hand-tested over 10 scopes alone for this review. If you’re looking to purchase a Scope for your AR-15, there are a few things you should know first.

What’s the best part?

I’ve sorted the scopes by use. So whether you’re on a budget or need the best extreme long range rifle scope, you’ll find it here.

Choosing the best long range rifle scope depends on various factors, including your specific needs, budget, and shooting preferences.

Let’s Start!

Table of Contents

How choosing the best long range rifle scope

Choosing the best long-range rifle scope requires considering several important factors. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make an informed decision:

1. Determine your shooting needs: Consider the purpose of your long-range shooting, whether it’s precision target shooting, hunting, or competition. This will help you identify the specific features and specifications you require in a scope.

2. Magnification range: Long-range shooting typically requires scopes with higher magnification capabilities. Look for scopes that offer a wide range of magnification options suitable for your shooting distances and target size.

3. Objective lens size: A larger objective lens diameter allows more light to enter the scope, resulting in brighter and clearer images. However, larger objective lenses can add weight and bulk to the scope. Consider the balance between light transmission and the overall size and weight you are comfortable with.

4. Reticle type: Choose a reticle that suits your shooting style and preferences. Popular options for long-range shooting include Mil-dot, MOA, BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator), and Horus-style reticles. Consider whether you prefer illuminated or non-illuminated reticles based on your shooting conditions.

5. Turret adjustments: Look for scopes with precise and repeatable turret adjustments. Examine the turrets’ ease of use, click values, and whether they offer zero-stop or resettable features for quick and reliable adjustments.

6. Optical quality: Consider the scope’s optical clarity, resolution, color fidelity, and light transmission. Look for scopes with high-quality glass and advanced lens coatings to ensure clear and sharp images, especially in low-light conditions.

7. Durability: A long-range rifle scope should be built to withstand recoil, harsh weather conditions, and rough handling. Look for scopes with rugged construction, shock resistance, water and fog resistance, and a reliable warranty.

8. Budget: Set a budget range and find a scope that offers the best combination of features and performance within your budget. Remember that higher-priced scopes often provide superior optical quality, advanced features, and durability.

9. Research and reviews: Read reviews, watch video demonstrations, and seek feedback from other shooters to gather information and insights about different scope models. Pay attention to real-world performance, durability, and customer satisfaction.

10. Try before you buy: If possible, try out different scopes at a local store, shooting range, or through borrowing from friends. Testing the scope’s clarity, ease of use, and adjustments will help you make a more informed decision.

By considering these factors and conducting thorough research, you’ll be able to choose the best long-range rifle scope that meets your specific shooting needs and preferences.

THE LONG RANGE RIFLE SCOPE ‘MAGNIFICATION MYTH

The “magnification myth” refers to the misconception that higher magnification is always better for long-range shooting. While magnification plays a role in long-range shooting, it is not the sole determinant of success. Here are some key points to consider regarding the magnification myth:

1. Target size and distance: Higher magnification can be beneficial when engaging smaller targets or shooting at longer distances. It allows for better target identification and precise shot placement.

However, if the target is relatively large or the shooting distance is shorter, excessive magnification can actually hinder situational awareness and make it harder to acquire and track the target.

2. Field of view: As magnification increases, the field of view generally decreases. A narrow field of view can limit your ability to observe the surrounding environment, spot additional targets, or react quickly to changes in the situation. It’s essential to strike a balance between magnification and field of view to maintain situational awareness.

3. Image stability and mirage effect: Higher magnification can amplify the effects of movement, including hand tremors or atmospheric conditions like heat mirage. This can impact image stability and clarity, making it more challenging to maintain a steady aim and accurately judge the target.

4. Exit pupil size and low-light performance: As magnification increases, the exit pupil (the diameter of the light beam exiting the scope) decreases. A smaller exit pupil reduces the amount of light reaching your eye, which can negatively affect visibility in low-light conditions. Consider the trade-off between magnification and low-light performance, especially if you anticipate shooting during dawn, dusk, or in dimly lit environments.

5. Optics quality: The optical quality of a scope, including the quality of the glass, lens coatings, and overall design, plays a significant role in image clarity and resolution. A scope with excellent optical quality can provide clear and sharp images even at lower magnifications, making it more effective for long-range shooting.

It’s important to choose a scope with an appropriate magnification range that suits your shooting needs and the typical distances you engage targets at. Consider factors such as target size, field of view, image stability, low-light performance, and optical quality. Ultimately, the right balance of magnification, optics quality, and other features will contribute to your overall shooting success at long range.

Read Before You Buy

Let me ask you a question:

What is the best long range scope? If you knew, you wouldn’t be here.

So to save you time and money, here’s what you need to know about choosing the right long range rifle scope.

THE LONG RANGE SCOPE ‘MAGNIFICATION MYTH

1. Target size and distance: Higher magnification can be beneficial when engaging smaller targets or shooting at longer distances. It allows for better target identification and precise shot placement. However, if the target is relatively large or the shooting distance is shorter, excessive magnification can actually hinder situational awareness and make it harder to acquire and track the target.

LONG RANGE SHOOTING DISTANCES

Long-range shooting distances can vary depending on factors such as the type of firearm, the cartridge being used, the shooter’s skill level, and the specific shooting conditions. However, long-range shooting is generally considered to involve distances beyond typical close-quarters or intermediate ranges. Here are some commonly used distance classifications for long-range shooting:

1. Medium Range: Generally refers to distances between 300 and 600 yards (274 to 548 meters). At medium range, shooters often engage targets with precision rifles chambered in various calibers.

2. Extended Range: Refers to distances beyond medium range, typically between 600 and 1,200 yards (548 to 1,097 meters). Extended-range shooting requires more advanced ballistics knowledge, precise shooting techniques, and specialized equipment.

3. Extreme Range: This category encompasses distances beyond extended range, typically exceeding 1,200 yards (1,097 meters) and extending to several thousand yards. Extreme-range shooting demands exceptional precision, mastery of long-range ballistics, and specialized rifles and optics.

It’s important to note that these distance classifications can vary depending on the shooting discipline, individual definitions, and the context in which they are used. Different shooting competitions or training programs may have specific distance requirements and categories for long-range shooting.

When engaging targets at long distances, it’s crucial to consider environmental factors such as wind, temperature, altitude, and atmospheric conditions, as they can significantly impact bullet trajectory. Properly calculating and compensating for these factors is essential for achieving accurate and consistent shots at longer ranges.

Best long range rifle scope

Here are some highly regarded long-range rifle scopes known for their performance and features:

1. Nightforce ATACR

The Nightforce ATACR series is renowned for its exceptional optical clarity, durability, and tracking capabilities. These scopes offer a wide range of magnification options, advanced reticle choices, and precise adjustments, making them popular among long-range shooters.

The Nightforce ATACR (Advanced Tactical Riflescope) is a highly regarded scope known for its exceptional quality, durability, and advanced features. Here are some key features and characteristics of the Nightforce ATACR scope:

1. Optical Performance: The Nightforce ATACR scope offers outstanding optical clarity, resolution, and light transmission. It utilizes high-quality glass and advanced lens coatings to provide sharp and bright images even in challenging lighting conditions.

2. Reticle Options: The ATACR scope is available with various reticle options to suit different shooting applications and preferences. These include MIL-based reticles, MOA-based reticles, and Horus reticles. The reticles are designed to facilitate precise aiming, holdovers, and windage corrections at long distances.

3. Turret Adjustments: The ATACR scope features tactical-style turrets that allow for precise and repeatable adjustments. They typically offer audible and tactile clicks, making it easier to dial in elevation and windage corrections. Some models of the ATACR scope come with zero-stop or zero-locking mechanisms for quick and easy return to zero.

4. Magnification Range: The ATACR scope is available in various magnification ranges, typically starting from a low magnification setting (e.g., 1-8x, 4-16x) up to higher magnifications suitable for long-range shooting (e.g., 5-25x, 7-35x). The wide range of magnification options allows shooters to adapt to different shooting scenarios and engage targets at varying distances.

5. Durability and Construction: Nightforce scopes are known for their ruggedness and durability. The ATACR scope is built with a robust, shock-resistant construction to withstand heavy recoil and harsh environments. It is waterproof, fog-proof, and designed to withstand extreme temperatures and rough handling.

6. Illumination: Some models of the Nightforce ATACR scope feature illuminated reticles with adjustable brightness settings. This allows for better visibility and aiming in low-light conditions or when engaging targets against dark backgrounds.

7. Compatibility with Accessories: The ATACR scope is designed to be compatible with a range of accessories, including scope mounts, scope rings, and anti-cant devices. This enhances the flexibility and customization options for shooters.

The Nightforce ATACR scope is favored by professional shooters, military personnel, and serious long-range enthusiasts due to its robust construction, exceptional optical performance, and advanced features. It is often considered a top-tier choice for long-range precision shooting and has earned a reputation for its reliability and ruggedness in demanding conditions.

NIGHTFORCE ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 Precise Illuminated 34mm Tube Black Matte Hunting Gun Scope

About this item • EXTENSIVE MAGNIFICATION - With its extensive magnification range and legendary ATACR optical performance, via an ED glass package, the ATACR 7-35 x 56 F1 will push the boundaries of even the most capable of today’s long range cartridges • PRECISE SCOPE - With parallax adjustment down to 10 meters and 100 MOA of elevation travel, precision is attainable from short range distances to as far as any modern extreme long range gun and cartridge can reach

NIGHTFORCE ATACR 1-8×24mm .1 Mil-Radian Capped Turrets Daylight Visible F1/FFP FC-DMX Reticle 34mm Tube Hunting Gun Scope

About this item • NIGHTFORCE HUNTING GUN SCOPE - The ATACR 1-8×24 scope includes pristine ED glass, bright daylight illumination, very low-profile adjustments and 1x field of view; The daylight visible, center red dot allows for rapid engagements like a red-dot sight • HIGH PERFORMANCE - Unlike a red-dot, the 1-8x provides up to 8x zoom to help locate, identify and engage targets at the maximum effective range of most guns; The intelligent FC-DMx first focal plane reticle provides precise hold and hold-off points

NIGHTFORCE ATACR 5-25x56mm F1 ZeroStop .250 MOA DigIllum PTL MOAR/ .1 Mil-Radian DigIllum PTL Mil-R Reticel Black Matte Hunting Scope

About this item • ED GLASS - Fully multi-coated ED glass for excellent light transmission, bright images, and color contrast will enhance the quality of your shots • ZEROSTOP TECHNOLOGY - It gives you an easy return to your zero point, no matter how many elevation adjustments you’ve made in the field • EXTENSIVE ELEVATION TRAVEL – Extensive elevation travel allows target engagements at distances previously considered "out of range", if you’re willing to practice and if your gun is up to it • FIRST FOCAL PLANE PRECISION - First focal plane technology means consistent reticle values, regardless of the magnification setting.

2.Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II

The Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II scopes are known for their high-quality optics, durability, and versatile features. They offer excellent image quality, a variety of reticle options, and robust construction to withstand heavy recoil and harsh environments.

The Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II is a highly regarded rifle scope known for its exceptional optical performance, durability, and advanced features. Here are some key features and characteristics of the Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II scope:

1. Optical Quality: The Razor HD Gen II scope offers excellent optical clarity, resolution, and color fidelity. It features premium, high-density extra-low dispersion (ED) glass elements that provide sharp, true-to-life images with minimal chromatic aberration and distortion. The scope is also fully multi-coated with Vortex’s XRPlus anti-reflective coatings for maximum light transmission and optimal brightness.

2. Reticle Options: The Razor HD Gen II scope offers a variety of reticle options to cater to different shooting needs. These include EBR (Enhanced Battle Reticle) and MOA or MRAD-based reticles. The reticles are designed for accurate ranging, holdovers, and windage corrections, making them suitable for long-range shooting applications.

3. Turret Adjustments: The scope features exposed tactical-style turrets that allow for precise and repeatable adjustments. The turrets have crisp, audible clicks and offer either MOA or MRAD adjustments. Some models of the Razor HD Gen II scope come with a zero-stop mechanism, enabling quick and easy return to zero.

4. Magnification Range: The Razor HD Gen II scope is available in various magnification ranges, typically starting from low to moderate magnification (e.g., 1-6x, 3-18x) up to higher magnification settings (e.g., 4.5-27x, 4.5-30x). The wide range of magnification options allows shooters to adapt to different shooting scenarios and engage targets at varying distances.

5. Durability and Construction: The Razor HD Gen II scope is built with a rugged, shockproof construction using aircraft-grade aluminum. It is designed to withstand heavy recoil, impacts, and extreme conditions. The scope is also O-ring sealed and argon-purged, making it waterproof, fog-proof, and resistant to internal fogging in various weather conditions.

6. Illumination: Some models of the Razor HD Gen II scope feature illuminated reticles with adjustable brightness settings. This allows for better visibility and aiming in low-light conditions or when engaging targets against dark backgrounds.

7. Compatibility with Accessories: The Razor HD Gen II scope is compatible with a wide range of accessories, including scope mounts, rings, and anti-cant devices. It offers versatility and customization options to suit individual shooter preferences.

The Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II scope is highly regarded by precision shooters, tactical shooters, and hunters alike. Its exceptional optical quality, rugged construction, advanced features, and Vortex’s renowned customer service make it a popular choice for those seeking a high-performance long-range rifle scope.

Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6x24 Second Focal Plane Riflescopes

About this item • The Razor HD Gen II-E sheds nearly a 1/4 pound from its predecessor, is feature rich, and extremely accurate in short to medium applications. The JM-1 BDC reticle features an illuminated center dot. • The APO optical system delivers stunning image quality through premium, high density, extra-low dispersion glass. All lenses are fully multi-coated with XR plus anti-reflective coatings to increase light transmission for amazing brightness. • A low-profile locking illumination dial has 11 levels of brightness with off positions between each setting. The second focal plane reticle with a daylight bright center dot provides red dot functionality and close quarters versatility.

Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II First Focal Plane Riflescopes

About this item • The Razor HD Gen II 3-18x50 was designed for long range. The L-TEC Turret System has a locking mechanism preventing accidental adjustments. A visual rotation indicator allows you to keep track of revolutions on the turret. • EBR-7C is made for long-range. A windage tree in the lower quadrants is for fast wind/elevation corrections. Numbers on the lower stadia have moved outside the windage dots for less obstruction around the vertical stadia. • 6x zoom range offers magnification versatility while the fast focus eyepiece adjusts the reticle into sharp focus. Side parallax adjustment and illumination controls have been integrated into one knob for easy access and streamlined performance.

3.Leupold Mark 5HD

The Leupold Mark 5HD scopes are recognized for their optical clarity, light transmission, and precision. They feature a wide zoom range, advanced reticle options, and user-friendly controls, making them suitable for long-range shooting and competition.

The Leupold Mark 5HD is a premium rifle scope known for its high-quality optics, rugged construction, and advanced features. Here are some key features and characteristics of the Leupold Mark 5HD scope:

1. Optical Quality: The Mark 5HD scope boasts exceptional optical clarity, resolution, and color fidelity. It features high-definition (HD) glass with advanced lens coatings that maximize light transmission, reduce glare, and deliver sharp and bright images even in low-light conditions. The scope provides excellent edge-to-edge clarity and a wide field of view.

2. Reticle Options: The Mark 5HD scope offers a variety of reticle options to cater to different shooting needs. These include MOA-based and MIL-based reticles, such as the Tremor 3, Impact 60, and PR2 reticles. The reticles are designed for precise aiming, holdovers, and windage corrections, making them suitable for long-range shooting applications.

3. Turret Adjustments: The scope features exposed tactical-style turrets with precise and repeatable adjustments. The turrets offer either MOA or MIL adjustments, depending on the model. They typically have audible and tactile clicks, allowing for quick and accurate dialing of elevation and windage corrections. Some models of the Mark 5HD scope come with a zero-stop feature for easy return to zero.

4. Magnification Range: The Mark 5HD scope is available in various magnification ranges, typically starting from moderate to high magnification settings (e.g., 3.6-18x, 5-25x). The scope provides a wide range of magnification options suitable for various shooting distances and target sizes. The magnification adjustment is smooth and precise.

5. Durability and Construction: The Mark 5HD scope is built with a robust and rugged construction using high-quality materials. It is shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof, thanks to the use of a sealed and nitrogen-filled housing. The scope can withstand heavy recoil, impacts, and extreme weather conditions.

6. Twilight Max HD Light Management System: The Mark 5HD scope incorporates Leupold’s Twilight Max HD Light Management System, which enhances low-light performance and provides optimal image brightness and contrast during the critical moments of dawn and dusk hunting or shooting.

7. Ergonomics and Ease of Use: The Mark 5HD scope features a user-friendly design with a fast-focus eyepiece, generous eye relief, and a large adjustment range for precise eye placement. The scope has a streamlined profile and is relatively lightweight compared to other high-end long-range scopes.

The Leupold Mark 5HD scope is highly regarded among precision shooters, competitive shooters, and hunters who demand top-tier optical performance, durability, and versatility. Its exceptional image quality, advanced features, and the reputation of Leupold’s customer service make it a popular choice for those seeking a high-performance long-range rifle scope.

Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm M5C3 FFP Side Focus Riflescope

About this item • Model #180222 - Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm Riflescope with a Front Focal PR2-MIL reticle and a Matte finish • M5C3 Turrets - Low Profile 1/10 Mil per click dials provide 30 Mils of adjustment in 3 revolutions (Visual and tactile revolution indicators ensure you don't get lost in the travel) • First Focal Plane (FFP) - The reticle magnifies along with the image, so you can estimate range at all magnification settings

4. Zeiss Conquest V6

1. The Zeiss Conquest V6 scopes provide excellent optical quality, robust construction, and a range of magnification options. They offer precise turrets, illuminated reticles, and a large field of view, making them suitable for long-range hunting and target shooting.

The Zeiss Conquest V6 is a high-quality rifle scope known for its excellent optics, versatile magnification range, and robust construction. Here are some key features and characteristics of the Zeiss Conquest V6 scope:

1. Optical Quality: The Conquest V6 scope features high-quality glass and Zeiss’ T* multi-coating technology, which enhances light transmission and provides excellent image clarity, color rendition, and contrast. The scope delivers sharp and bright images even in low-light conditions, making it suitable for a wide range of shooting scenarios.

2. Reticle Options: The Conquest V6 scope offers a variety of reticle options to accommodate different shooting needs. These include illuminated and non-illuminated reticles with various designs, such as traditional duplex, MOA or MRAD-based reticles, and ballistic reticles. The reticles are designed to aid in precise aiming, holdovers, and windage corrections.

3. Turret Adjustments: The scope features exposed tactical-style turrets that allow for precise and repeatable adjustments. The turrets typically offer either MOA or MRAD adjustments, depending on the model. They often have tactile and audible clicks, making it easier to dial in elevation and windage corrections.

4. Magnification Range: The Conquest V6 scope is available in a wide range of magnification options, typically starting from low to moderate magnification (e.g., 1-6x, 2-12x) up to higher magnification settings suitable for longer range shooting (e.g., 3-18x, 5-30x). The versatile magnification range allows shooters to adapt to different shooting distances and target sizes.

5. Durability and Construction: The Conquest V6 scope is built with a durable and rugged construction to withstand harsh conditions and recoil. It is waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-resistant, ensuring reliable performance in various weather and environmental conditions. The scope is also equipped with Zeiss’ LotuTec protective lens coating, which repels water, dirt, and oil for easy cleaning and improved durability.

6. Rapid-Z Ballistic Reticle System: Some models of the Conquest V6 scope come with the Zeiss Rapid-Z ballistic reticle system. This system allows shooters to quickly adjust for different bullet trajectories and engage targets at varying distances without making turret adjustments. The Rapid-Z system simplifies long-range shooting calculations and offers a user-friendly solution for precise holdovers.

7. Ergonomics and Ease of Use: The Conquest V6 scope is designed with user-friendly features such as a large eye box, generous eye relief, and a smooth zoom ring for easy magnification adjustments. The scope also offers a wide field of view, allowing shooters to acquire targets quickly and track moving targets effectively.

5. Steiner T5Xi

The Steiner T5Xi scopes are known for their ruggedness, optical clarity, and versatility. They offer a variety of reticle options, precise adjustments, and illuminated reticles for enhanced visibility in low-light conditions.

The Steiner T5Xi is a premium rifle scope designed for precision shooting and tactical applications. It is known for its exceptional optical quality, durability, and advanced features. Here are some key features and characteristics of the Steiner T5Xi scope:

1. Optical Quality: The T5Xi scope features high-quality glass and advanced lens coatings to provide excellent light transmission, clarity, and color fidelity. The optics deliver sharp and bright images with enhanced contrast and minimal distortion across the entire field of view. The scope performs well in low-light conditions, allowing for optimal visibility and target acquisition.

2. Reticle Options: The T5Xi scope offers various reticle options to cater to different shooting preferences and applications. These include traditional duplex reticles, mil-dot reticles, Horus reticles, and the SCR (Special Competition Reticle). The reticles are designed for precise aiming, holdovers, and windage corrections, enabling shooters to engage targets at different distances with confidence.

3. Turret Adjustments: The scope features exposed tactical turrets that allow for precise and repeatable adjustments. The turrets typically offer either mil or MOA adjustments, depending on the model. They often have tactile and audible clicks, facilitating easy and accurate dialing of elevation and windage corrections. Some models of the T5Xi scope feature locking turrets and zero-stop mechanisms for added convenience.

4. Magnification Range: The T5Xi scope is available in a range of magnification options suitable for various shooting distances and applications. The magnification ranges typically start from moderate to high magnification (e.g., 3-15x, 5-25x). The scope offers a versatile zoom range, allowing shooters to adapt to different shooting scenarios and engage targets at varying distances.

5. Durability and Construction: The T5Xi scope is built with a rugged and durable construction using high-quality materials. It is shockproof, fog-proof, and waterproof, ensuring reliable performance in demanding conditions. The scope is designed to withstand heavy recoil and harsh environments, making it suitable for tactical operations and rigorous field use.

6. Special Competition Reticle (SCR): The T5Xi models with the SCR reticle are specifically designed for competitive shooting. The SCR reticle offers quick and intuitive holdover points for precise target engagement. It features a simple yet effective design that allows for fast and accurate shot placement during fast-paced shooting competitions.

7. Ergonomics and Ease of Use: The T5Xi scope features user-friendly controls, including a fast-focus eyepiece and a smooth zoom ring for easy magnification adjustments. The scope has a generous eye relief and a forgiving eye box, allowing for comfortable and consistent eye placement. The scope also offers a wide field of view, aiding in target acquisition and tracking.

Steiner T5Xi Tactical Rifle Scope - Close Compact Riflescope for Hunting

About this item • ULTIMATE ACCURACY – Rely on Steiner’s T5Xi 5-25x 56mm tactical riflescope to provide precision through its one-piece, oversized 34mm tube that increases strength and reliability. • SPECIAL COMPETITION RETICLE (SCR) - Designed for precision competition use, it offers an extended illumination area, windage and holdover lines. 1/10-mil ranging brackets allow for precise ranging. • THROW LEVER allows quick, easy magnification changes and Tenebraex LENS COVERS protect the lenses from dust and moisture.Diopter Adjustment Range: +2 to -3 • SECOND ROTATION INDICATOR - After the first 120 clicks, the mil numbers on the scale change automatically preventing the shooter from getting lost on the dial.

You can review the Best Scope For AR 15-2023 for RIFLES.