The Best Rifle Scope Under $500 in 2023
In this guide, I’m going to provide the details of the best rifle scope under $500.
In fact:
I have personally hand-tested many scopes on different rifles to shoot targets under $500. I’ve finalized a few best budget rifle scope for your use.
You can also try the Best Rifle Scope Under $500 in 2023.
I’ve categorized each scope by use, so you can easily find which scope fits your needs.
Let’s Starts.
| Best Rifle Scope Under $500 | Category | Price |
|---|---|---|
|
Best AR-15 Scope Under $500 |
$399 |
|
|
Best Long Range Scope Under $500 |
Not avaliable |
|
|
Best Hunting Scope Under $500 |
$295 |
|
|
Best for the Budget |
$130 |
* OpticsCountry is reader-supported. When you buy through links on my site, I may earn an affiliate commission.*
1.VORTEX STRIKE EAGLE 1-8X24MM SFP RIFLE SCOPE: BEST AR-15 SCOPE UNDER $500
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm SFP (Second Focal Plane) Rifle Scope is a versatile and popular optic designed for a wide range of shooting applications. Here’s a review of the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm SFP Rifle Scope:
1. Magnification Range: The Strike Eagle offers a variable magnification range from 1x to 8x, allowing for both close-quarters engagement and extended-range shots. The 1x magnification provides a true 1x sight picture, allowing for quick target acquisition with both eyes open, while the 8x magnification offers enough power for mid-range targets.
2. Second Focal Plane Reticle: The Strike Eagle features a second focal plane reticle, which means the reticle size remains constant throughout the magnification range. This ensures a consistent sight picture and easy target acquisition, as the reticle remains clear and visible at all magnification levels.
3. Illuminated Reticle: The illuminated reticle of the Strike Eagle provides enhanced visibility in low-light conditions or when engaging targets against dark backgrounds. The illuminated center dot allows for quick and precise aiming, while the brightness settings can be easily adjusted to match the ambient lighting conditions.
4. Glass and Coatings: The Strike Eagle utilizes high-quality glass and multi-coated lenses, which deliver excellent light transmission, clarity, and color fidelity. The fully multi-coated optics enhance image quality and brightness, allowing for a clear sight picture even in challenging lighting environments.
5. Fast Focus Eyepiece: The fast focus eyepiece of the Strike Eagle allows for quick and easy reticle focus adjustment, ensuring a sharp and crisp reticle image. This feature is particularly useful when transitioning between targets at different distances.
6. Tactical Turrets: The Strike Eagle is equipped with tactical-style turrets that provide audible and tactile click adjustments. The turrets feature a zero-reset function, allowing for quick and easy return to zero after making adjustments. The capped turrets also protect against accidental adjustments in the field.
7. Durable Construction: The Strike Eagle is built to withstand rugged use. It features a shockproof and waterproof construction, ensuring reliable performance in various weather conditions. The single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube provides durability and rigidity, while the hard-anodized finish protects against scratches and corrosion.
8. Easy Mounting: The Strike Eagle comes with a 30mm tube diameter, which is a common size for many mounting systems. It can be easily mounted on various rifles using compatible rings or mounts, ensuring a secure and stable attachment.
9. Vortex VIP Warranty: Vortex Optics offers an unconditional lifetime warranty on the Strike Eagle, known as the Vortex VIP Warranty. This warranty demonstrates the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction and provides peace of mind to users.
Overall, the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm SFP Rifle Scope is a versatile and reliable optic suitable for a wide range of shooting applications. Its variable magnification, illuminated reticle, high-quality optics, and durable construction make it a popular choice among shooters. Whether you’re engaging targets at close range or pushing the limits at longer distances, the Strike Eagle delivers performance and functionality at an attractive price point.
Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 1-8×24 Second Focal Plane Riflescope – BDC3 Reticle (MOA), Black
About this item
· The updated Strike Eagle 1-6×24 is defined by speed and versatility. A true 1x on the low end adapts to a wide range of scenarios, letting shooters rapidly engage targets from point-blank to extended ranges.
· The magnification ring has been updated and now includes a thread-in throw lever, and the magnification indicators can now be seen without coming off the scope.
· The new illuminated BDC3 reticle focuses the shooter’s eye to the target faster and holdovers allow for immediate use out to 650 yards for targets of known distance.
2.VORTEX OPTICS VIPER 6.5-20x44MM PA SCOPE
The Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20x44mm PA (Parallax Adjustment) Scope is a versatile and high-quality optic designed for long-range shooting and hunting. Here’s a review of the Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20x44mm PA Scope:
1. Magnification Range: The Viper scope offers a variable magnification range from 6.5x to 20x, providing versatility for engaging targets at different distances. This range is suitable for a wide range of applications, from long-range precision shooting to varmint hunting.
2. Parallax Adjustment: The PA designation indicates that the scope features a parallax adjustment knob. This allows you to eliminate parallax error and achieve a clear and focused sight picture, particularly at longer distances. The parallax adjustment feature enhances accuracy by ensuring the reticle stays on target, regardless of the shooting distance.
3. Objective Lens: The 44mm objective lens of the Viper scope strikes a balance between light transmission and overall scope size. While slightly smaller than the 50mm version, it still provides good light gathering capability for bright and clear images, especially in low-light conditions.
4. Reticle Options: The Viper scope is available with different reticle options to suit individual preferences and shooting needs. Whether you prefer a simple duplex reticle or a more advanced BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation) or MOA/MRAD-based reticle, there is likely a Viper model that offers the reticle style you prefer.
5. Glass and Coatings: Vortex Optics is renowned for its high-quality glass and lens coatings, and the Viper scope maintains that reputation. The scope utilizes fully multi-coated lenses and high-quality glass to provide exceptional image clarity, brightness, and color fidelity. The anti-reflective coatings help reduce glare and improve light transmission for optimal performance in various lighting conditions.
6. Turrets and Adjustments: The Viper scope features exposed target-style turrets that allow for precise and easy windage and elevation adjustments. The turrets have audible and tactile clicks, ensuring accurate adjustments even while wearing gloves or in low-light situations. The scope also incorporates a zero-reset function, allowing you to quickly return to your zero settings after making adjustments.
7. Durable Construction: The Viper scope is built to withstand the rigors of hunting and shooting. It features a rugged one-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube that is shockproof, fogproof, and waterproof. The O-ring seals and nitrogen gas purging ensure reliable performance in various weather conditions.
8. Side Focus: The Viper scope includes a side focus knob that enables easy parallax adjustment and fine-tuning of focus at different distances. This feature allows you to quickly adapt to changing shooting conditions and maintain a clear and sharp sight picture.
9. Vortex VIP Warranty: As with all Vortex Optics products, the Viper scope is backed by the Vortex VIP Warranty, which provides an unconditional lifetime warranty. This warranty ensures that if there are any defects or issues with the scope, Vortex will repair or replace it at no additional cost, offering peace of mind and excellent customer support.
In summary, the Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20x44mm PA Scope is a reliable and feature-rich optic suitable for long-range shooting and hunting applications. With its variable magnification, parallax adjustment, durable construction, and high-quality optics, the Viper scope delivers excellent performance and value for the price.
Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20×44 PA SFP Riflescope – Mil Dot MOA Reticle
About this item
· The Viper 6.5-20×44 is built on a 30mm main tube with a hard anodized finish providing a rugged, tough hunting riflescope. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle is good for any hunting or shooting at varying ranges where estimating hold-over would be a concern.
· Incorporating our premium, fully multi-coated, extra-low dispersion lenses brings excellent resolution and color fidelity. The XR coatings provide enhanced light gathering capability while Armortek coating protects the lenses.
· The Viper 6.5-20×44 riflescope is ideal for long range, predator/varmint, and target applications. O-ring sealed and argon purged, the Viper provides fogproof and waterproof performance.
3.VORTEX OPTICS CROSSFIRE II 3-12×56 AO HOG HUNTER SCOPE: BEST HUNTING SCOPE UNDER $500
When compared to other hunting rifle scopes of this price range, there’s no question that Vortex is among the best rifle scope under $500.
After 1,000 rounds fired, multiple environments, hilltops rolled down, and mountains hiked: I’ve pushed this scope to its limits.
For that reason, the Crossfire II 3-12×56 AO Hog Hunter Scope wins as the best hunting scope under $500.
The Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-12×56 AO Hog Hunter Scope is a specialized optic designed specifically for hog hunting, offering low-light performance and features tailored for this particular application. Here’s a review of the Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-12×56 AO Hog Hunter Scope:
1. Magnification Range: The Crossfire II Hog Hunter scope provides a variable magnification range from 3x to 12x, allowing for versatility in engaging targets at different distances. The lower magnification settings are useful for close-range or fast-moving targets, while the higher magnification settings enable precise shots at longer distances.
2. Objective Lens: The 56mm objective lens of the Hog Hunter scope is larger than standard rifle scopes, allowing for excellent light transmission and improved low-light performance. The larger objective lens diameter enhances brightness and clarity of the image, making it well-suited for hunting in low-light conditions, such as during dawn or dusk when hogs are most active.
3. Adjustable Objective (AO): The “AO” in the scope’s name refers to the adjustable objective feature, which allows for parallax adjustment and ensures a clear sight picture at various distances. This feature is particularly beneficial for accurate shooting, especially when engaging targets at different ranges.
4. Illuminated Reticle: The Hog Hunter scope features an illuminated reticle, specifically designed for hog hunting. The illuminated center dot allows for quick target acquisition and precise shot placement, even in low-light situations. The illuminated reticle offers different brightness settings to accommodate various lighting conditions.
5. Second Focal Plane (SFP) Reticle: The Crossfire II Hog Hunter scope utilizes a second focal plane reticle, meaning the size of the reticle remains constant as you change the magnification. This allows for consistent aiming points and easy target acquisition, ensuring accuracy across the entire magnification range.
6. Durable Construction: The Hog Hunter scope is built with a rugged one-inch tube made from aircraft-grade aluminum, ensuring durability and shock resistance. It is nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed to be fogproof and waterproof, capable of withstanding harsh weather conditions and providing reliable performance in the field.
7. Fast Focus Eyepiece: The scope features a fast-focus eyepiece, allowing for quick and easy reticle focusing to match your eyesight. This feature ensures rapid target acquisition and helps maintain a sharp sight picture.
8. Clear Optics: The Crossfire II Hog Hunter scope utilizes fully multi-coated lenses, maximizing light transmission and providing clear and bright images. The anti-reflective coatings minimize glare and enhance contrast, improving target visibility even in challenging lighting conditions.
9. Vortex VIP Warranty: Like all Vortex Optics products, the Hog Hunter scope is backed by the Vortex VIP Warranty, which offers an unconditional lifetime warranty. Vortex stands behind their products and ensures customer satisfaction by repairing or replacing any defects or issues with the scope at no additional cost.
Overall, the Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-12×56 AO Hog Hunter Scope is a specialized optic designed to excel in low-light hunting conditions, particularly for hog hunting. With its variable magnification, large objective lens, illuminated reticle, and durable construction, the Hog Hunter scope provides the necessary features and performance for successful hog hunting experiences.
Vortex Optics Tactical 30mm Riflescope Rings
About this item
· Robust 6-screw Tactical Ring is perfect for mounting red-dot optics, magnifiers, and other accessories with 30mm tube diameters to your Picatinny rail.
· When using this ring to mount a conventional riflescope, we strongly recommend lapping the rings for a proper and secure fit for your optic.
· This Vortex Tactical Ring positions the center of the riflescope tube at a height of 1.18 inches (30.0 mm) from the base.
· Sold two rings per package.
Vortex Optics Defender Riflescope Flip Caps
About this item
· Virtually indestructible, the Defender is the most versatile and durable flip cap on the market, this is the last flip cap you’ll ever need.
· A stainless steel spring flips the cap into multiple stop positions at 180 degrees and 45 degrees.
· Outside diameter: 0-55 / 55-59 mm / 2.16 – 2.32 inches
· Objective-50 Fits: RZR-31802, RZR-31803, RZR-52005, RZR-52006, PST-5258, PST-5255, PST-5251, VHS-4310, VHS-4325, VHS-4307-LR, VHS-4315-LR, VHS-4307, VPR-M-06MD, VPR-M-06BDC, DBK-M-03P, DBK-03-BDC, CF2-31011, CF2-31023, CF2-31027, CF2-31039, CF2-31045
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-12×56 Adjustable Objective Hog Hunter, Second Focal Plane, 30mm Tube Riflescope – V-Brite Illuminated Reticle, Black
About this item
· The 3-12×56 Adjustable Objective Hog Hunter Crossfire II riflescope excels when hunting in the lowest light. The V-Brite reticle and over-sized objective allow hunters to take shots from heavy cover with the utmost confidence in tough light conditions .
· The adjustable objective provides image focus and parallax removal to the shooter while anti-reflective, fully multi-coated lenses provide bright and clear views.
· With long eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box, you’ll be able to quickly get a sight picture and acquire your target. The fast focus eyepiece allows quick and easy reticle focusing.
4.BURRIS FULLFIELD II 3-9X40MM HUNTING SCOPE, BALLISTIC PLEX RETICLE- BEST FOR THE BUDGET
Every shooter knows that rifle scopes are tools in your arsenal and the best rifle scope is vital.
Unfortunately, many companies will charge you an arm and a leg for a scope that’s just not worth the price.
Thankfully this doesn’t apply to the Burris Fullfield II Hunting Scope. It’s reliable, versatile, and budget-friendly!
The Burris Fullfield II 3-9x40mm Hunting Scope with Ballistic Plex Reticle is a popular choice among hunters for its reliability, versatility, and optical performance. Here’s a review of the Burris Fullfield II 3-9x40mm Hunting Scope:
1. Magnification Range: The scope offers a variable magnification range from 3x to 9x, allowing for versatility in targeting various game at different distances. The lower magnification is suitable for close-range hunting or quick target acquisition, while the higher magnification is useful for more precise shots at longer distances.
2. Objective Lens: The 40mm objective lens strikes a balance between light transmission and overall scope size. It offers good light gathering capability, allowing for better visibility and clarity in low-light conditions.
3. Ballistic Plex Reticle: The Ballistic Plex reticle is specifically designed for hunting, providing quick and accurate aiming points for different ranges. The reticle features hash marks that compensate for bullet drop, allowing for more precise shots without the need for additional calculations. This feature is particularly useful for hunters who need to quickly estimate holdover or adjust for bullet trajectory.
4. Clear Optics: The Burris Fullfield II scope features high-quality, fully multi-coated lenses that ensure optimal light transmission, image clarity, and color fidelity. The coatings help reduce glare and improve contrast, enhancing the overall image quality and providing a clear sight picture.
5. Durable Construction: The scope is built with a one-inch main tube made from durable materials, ensuring shock resistance and durability in the field. It is nitrogen-filled and O-ring sealed, making it fogproof and waterproof, capable of withstanding various weather conditions.
6. Positive Click Adjustments: The scope’s windage and elevation turrets offer positive click adjustments, allowing for easy and precise zeroing. The tactile and audible clicks ensure accurate adjustments and help maintain zero settings, even in challenging field conditions.
7. Fast Focus Eyepiece: The Fast Focus eyepiece allows for quick and easy reticle focusing, ensuring rapid target acquisition and a sharp sight picture. This feature is especially useful in hunting situations where quick target acquisition is essential.
8. Recoil Resistance: The Burris Fullfield II scope is designed to handle the recoil of most hunting rifles, ensuring that it stays zeroed even after repeated shots. This reliability is crucial for hunters who may encounter situations where multiple shots are required.
9. Burris Forever Warranty: The Burris Fullfield II scope is backed by the Burris Forever Warranty, which provides lifelong protection against defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty offers peace of mind and demonstrates the confidence that Burris has in the quality and durability of their products.
In summary, the Burris Fullfield II 3-9x40mm Hunting Scope with Ballistic Plex Reticle is a reliable and versatile optic designed for hunting applications. With its variable magnification, Ballistic Plex reticle, clear optics, and durable construction, it provides hunters with the features they need for accurate and successful hunting experiences.
Burris 420084 Zee Rings (1-Inch, Medium, Matte Black)
About this item
· Burris 420084 zee Riflescope rings
· 1 inch, medium, matte
· This product is manufactured in United States
· Weaver Style
· 1 inch pair of rings
· Matte Black Finish
· Non-quick detach model
· Medium ring height
Burris Fullfield II Hunting Scope, Ballistic Plex Reticle
About this item
· Popular and premium traditional hunting scope at an affordable price; High-grade optical glass provides excellent brightness and clarity with lasting durability
· Quality, precision-ground lenses are larger than those of comparable scopes, for better light transmission; Index-matched, Hi-Lume multicoating aids in low-light performance and glare elimination, increasing your success rate
· Durable, integrated-eyepiece design has no-slip grip for easy adjustment in the field; Positive steel-on-steel adjustments assure repeated accuracy
· Fullfield II variable power 3x-9x-40mm ballistic plex matte black