Finding the right sniper scope for your next competition or hunting engagement doesn’t need to be tricky. Below, you’ll find a list of what I consider to be the top sniper scopes on the market – they’re from a variety of manufacturers, so everyone can find one for themselves. I will also help you identify what you should look for in an ideal scope for your needs. Let’s get started.
Understanding Range: Magnification Settings to Look For
There are scopes, and then there are scopes specifically designed for use with a sniper or long-range rifles. But how do you distinguish “sniper” scopes from other ones? To answer that question you have to consider the magnification settings of a given model.
So how does magnification affect your effective range? In general, most typical hunting takes place between 200 yards and 500 yards and incorporates scopes that can magnify between 2x and 8x or so. In a very general sense, a scope that can magnify 10x can help you land shots up to 1000 yards depending on the rifle used and the caliber of bullet or cartridge.
Longer-range scopes can significantly magnify their sight picture, granting you the ability to zoom in and clearly see a target many thousands of yards away. While there isn’t a singular definition for what constitutes a sniper scope, most scopes over 20x magnification are capable of being used with a long-range rifle.
These kinds of scopes are mostly used for long-distance accuracy competitions or for hunting targets that won’t move much, like slower and larger animals. This is because magnification settings over 20x significantly limit your peripheral vision, making it almost impossible to track a moving target.
Still, these kinds of scopes can provide exceptional clarity and accuracy across vast distances. If you’re looking for a dedicated sniper scope that can help you land shots thousands of yards away, you always want one that can provide you with magnification settings of at least 20x.
All the scopes I selected for consideration have upper magnification settings of 20x or greater. They also have much lower magnification settings, allowing them to be used for more general-purpose hunting situations. All in all, sniper scopes can be incredibly versatile or a specialty tool for particular needs; it all depends on which scope you pick.
What Makes a Sniper Scope Worthwhile?
There are tons of sniper scopes on the market, so identifying which scope will be perfect for your needs or rifle requires you to consider all their major attributes. Let’s go over the main things to consider when you are choosing the sniper scope to buy.
Durability
You no doubt want to select a sniper scope that’s built to last. This is incredibly important if you are a hunter, as many sniper or long-range hunting situations will require you to go prone and get the scope dirty. You may also need to spend some time in inclement weather. All of the scopes I selected below are made with durability in mind, which will save you money in the long run, as well.
Lens Coatings
At a distance, optics must gather all of the light possible to present you with a bright and clear sight picture at their higher magnification powers. Always look for multicoated lenses or lenses of a similar quality to ensure that your scope works effectively at a distance. Naturally, all the scopes I selected have multicoated or advanced lenses to make them worth your time.
Windage and Elevation Turret Quality
You’ll also want to select scopes that have good windage and elevation adjustment turrets. Having turrets that are easy to adjust or that offer precise adjustment increments are critical if you need to compensate for either of the above two variables when landing a long-distance shot.
You may also want to find scopes that have parallax turrets or adjustable objectives to mitigate the effects of parallax on distant shots. The scopes I selected for your browsing have some or all of these features, of course.
First or Second Focal Plane
Finally, consider whether a given sniper scope has a reticle on the first or second focal plane. First focal plane reticles become larger as you increase magnification and become smaller as you decrease magnification. This allows the reticle’s holdover points to remain accurate throughout all zoom levels.
Second focal plane reticles can also be helpful since they don’t change size no matter how far you’re zoomed in or out, although they do require some estimation on your part since the holdover points won’t be perfectly accurate on most settings.
There’s no right or wrong answer for all hunters. That’s why I selected scopes with both first and second focal plane reticles so you can choose based on your preferences or experience.
My Top Choice – Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27×56 FFP Riflescope
After I thoroughly tested several scopes, I can honestly say that the best sniper rifle scope in my opinion is the Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27×56 FFP Riflescope. I won’t get into details now (you will find them below), but just know that Vortex never misses and this time they didn’t either.
The 5 Best Sniper Scopes
The Top 5 list won’t be completed without the other four positions, so here is a complete list of my best sniper scopes that you can currently purchase:
- Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27×56 FFP Riflescope – multicoated lenses, side-mounted parallax turret.
- Burris Optics XTR II Riflescope 8-40x50mm – illuminated reticle, extraordinate magnification settings.
- Nightforce Optics 5.5-22×56 NXS Riflescope – reticle can be illuminated, zero stop turrets.
- Vortex Optics Viper HS-T 6-24×50 SFP Riflescope – target style turrets, XR coated lenses.
- Trijicon TR23 AccuPoint 5-20×50 Riflescope – specially illuminated, second focal plane reticle.
So, now that you know my top picks, let me tell you something more about each of them so that you know exactly why they made it onto the list.
1. Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27×56 FFP Riflescope 
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Vortex Optics is well known among the marksman community for creating excellent scopes, as they prove with this model.
My Feelings After Using the Product
The scope offers magnification settings between 4.5x and 27x, making it an ideal scope for both close quarters and long-distance sniping action. It also features a reticle on the first focal plane, so its holdover points will remain accurate no matter how far you zoom in or out.
But that’s not all. This scope features a distinct APO optical system that can provide quality sight pictures with extra-low dispersion glass for its lenses. The lenses are multicoated to reduce reflection and improve sight picture quality. The reticle can be illuminated between 11 different intensities, meaning you can use this scope even in low light conditions.
Product Highlights
One thing I need to mention here, as it is definitely worth noting, are this scope’s windage and elevation adjustment turrets. Not only are these tactile and sensitive, but they can also be locked into place to prevent you from accidentally shifting those values as you move. It’s a great feature, especially with the parallax adjuster turret on the side of the scope.
Common Problems and How to Deal with Them
The only thing that I can think about that could be considered a con of this sniper scope is the fact that the turrets don’t click.
Key Features
- Magnification from 4.5x to 27x
- First focal plane reticle that can be illuminated
- APO optical system
- Multicoated lenses
| Pros | Cons |
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Basic Parameters
| Manufacturer | Vortex |
| Weight | 48.5 oz |
| Eye Relief | 3.7 inches |
| Magnification | 4.5x-27x |
| Field of View | 25.3-4.4 ft/100 yds |
The Bottom Line
This scope is a phenomenal choice for any sniper or long-distance hunter. Its lockable adjustment turrets are extremely user-friendly and offer precise control, something that every sniper will appreciate. The lenses and the rest of the scope are similarly high quality, making it extraordinary in terms of value for money.
My rating: 5/5
2. Burris Optics XTR II Riflescope 8-40x50mm
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If you’re looking for a durable rifle scope that can be used no matter what the weather is like and that will help you make a perfect shot each time, this one is definitely worth considering.
My Feelings After Using the Product
This long-distance rifle scope offers magnification settings between 8x and 40x. That’s an extraordinary range, even for experienced marksmen. Thankfully, the glass available for this scope is particularly high quality and provides a bright sight picture even in low light conditions. To make things even better, the reticle can be illuminated to improve your accuracy during dusk or dawn. It’s an FFP reticle, too.
This scope is made from a durable frame that will last for a long time to come. It’s waterproof and fog proof, so feel free to take it in any weather. The scope’s magnification settings can be adjusted via a control ring that responds quickly and smoothly to any user input.
Product Highlights
I have to say, one of the things I enjoyed most about this scope is the fact that it features excellent click-stop adjustment knobs for windage, elevation, and parallax modification, ensuring great hunting experience each time. Each increment moved results in a satisfying click, which makes it easy to adjust these turrets while your eye is in the scope. All of these turrets are great for long-distance sniping, ensuring that your next shot will be a perfect hit.
Common Problems and How to Deal with Them
While I love the turrets the scope comes with, I have to say that they can be quite bulky/extended. However, personally, I wasn’t that bothered by it.
Key Features
- Magnification from 8x to 40x
- High-quality glass
- FPP reticle
- Click-stop adjustment knobs for windage, elevation, and parallax modification
| Pros | Cons |
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Basic Parameters
| Manufacturer | Burris |
| Weight | 31.4 oz |
| Eye Relief | 3.5-4.25 inches |
| Magnification | 8x-40x |
| Field of View | 13.2-2.8 ft/100 yds |
The Bottom Line
All in all, this effective long-range scope has one of the best reticles for dusk or dawn sniping as well as a durable body, which protects the excellent lenses that provide a fantastic sight picture. The zero-click stop adjustment knobs are also phenomenal and offer superb user control for long-distance shots.
It would also fit the 338 Lapua Magnum.
My rating: 4.75/5
3. Nightforce Optics 5.5-22×56 NXS Riflescope 
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Nightforce Optics’ offering is another great choice for long-distance snipers or hunters who prefer to take down their targets at great ranges.
My Feelings After Using the Product
This scope offers magnification levels between 5.5x and 22x, making it a versatile choice that can be equally effectively used at both close and long ranges. It’s built with several zero stop turrets, including one that can eliminate parallax from your longer shots.
The scope is built into a durable body made from aircraft-grade aluminum, and which has been sealed to offer waterproof performance. It’s also constructed with a matte black finish, which makes the scope stealthier. This way, your equipment won’t accidentally glare from the sun, giving your location away to your target.
Product Highlights
This scope’s reticle can be illuminated brightly, affording you better accuracy in low light conditions. While its brightness isn’t the best during daytime shooting hours, it’s of particular use to hunters that need to track their prey during the beginning or end of the day.
Common Problems and How to Deal with Them
Nothing is perfect, and that’s also a case for this rifle scope. As I already mentioned – unfortunately the brightness with which the reticle is illuminated isn’t enough for it to be used during the day – so, if you prefer to hunt while the sun is out, you might want to reconsider this particular scope.
Key Features
- Magnification of between 5.5x and 22x
- Zero-stop turrets
- Matte black finish
- Weatherproof
- Illuminated reticle
| Pros | Cons |
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Basic Parameters
| Manufacturer | NightForce |
| Weight | 32 oz |
| Eye Relief | 3.9 inches |
| Magnification | 5.5x-22x |
| Field of View | 17.5-4.7 ft/100 yds |
The Bottom Line
Overall, this scope is a fine choice for hunters thanks to its durability and protection against inclement weather. The glowing reticle is another excellent addition which makes it easy to shoot during dusk or dawn. Finally, the matte finish is of great importance for any hunter that wants to stay hidden from their target until the right moment.
My rating: 4.5/5
4. Vortex Optics Viper HS-T 6-24×50 SFP Riflescope
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Think I was exaggerating with how good Vortex rifles actually are? Well, the fact that it appears on my list for the second time should dispel all your doubts.
My Feelings After Using the Product
It can magnify between 6x and 24x and has a reticle on the second focal plane, making it a versatile scope that’s just as good for up-close shots as it is for long-distance ones. It features a fast-focus eyepiece that can let you quickly adjust the reticle to your eye.
Like all the best sniper scopes, this one is incredibly durable and has been sealed to ensure waterproof and fog proof performance. It also includes target style turrets that offer precise and repeatable finger adjustable clicks for all of your major variables. Each turret can also be set to zero once you’ve sighted into the scope.
Product Highlights
If there’s one thing that you need to know about this scope it’s its lenses, as they are truly incredible. They’re bolstered by an XR coating, which improves their light-gathering capabilities, and Armortek coatings, which protect the lenses from accruing scratch or dirt damage. As a result, this scope has lenses that can withstand significant wear and tear and still deliver outstanding performance.
Common Problems and How to Deal with Them
There honestly isn’t anything majorly wrong enough about this scope that would make me advise you to reconsider your choice – the only thing I can say that might need improvement is that the eye relief can be a bit narrow on some zoom settings.
Key Features
- Magnification of between 6x and 24x
- Second focal plane reticle
- Target style turrets
- Waterproof and fogproof
- XR coated lenses
| Pros | Cons |
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Basic Parameters
| Manufacturer | Vortex |
| Weight | 22.6 oz |
| Eye Relief | 4 inches |
| Magnification | 6x-24x |
| Field of View | 17.8-5.1 ft/100 yds |
The Bottom Line
This scope is among the most durable on the market. It’s an excellent choice for hunters that spend lots of time in the dirt or in inclement weather. It’s also a great choice for hunters that are worried about dropping their scopes and damaging the lenses; with the Armortek coatings, it’s not something you have to think about.
My rating: 4.75/5
5. Trijicon TR23 AccuPoint 5-20×50 Riflescope 
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My Feelings After Using the Product
The sniper scope offers magnification ranges between 5x and 20x, so it’s right on the lower end of zoom settings for most sniper scopes. It also features a second focal plane reticle, which will remain a consistent size across all zoom settings.
This scope further features superior lenses that have been multicoated to improve their durability, reduced distortion, and increase their light transmission. The scope is made from aircraft-grade aluminum, allowing you to depend on it in any environmental conditions.
Product Highlights
This scope features an amazing reticle that is illuminated without the use of batteries. Instead, a tritium phosphor lamp provides illumination to the reticle, which also has the added benefit of preventing any illumination from polluting the final image that reaches the ocular lens. Essentially, this reticle grants you additional accuracy bonuses without running the risk of blinding you with its own reticle glow.
Common Problems and How to Deal with Them
One thing that I wish this scope had is turrets that lock in place – unfortunately, that’s not the case. That’s my only complaint though.
Key Features
- Magnification of between 5x and 20x
- Second focal plane, illuminated reticle
- Multicoated lenses
- Made from aircraft grade aluminum
| Pros | Cons |
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Basic Parameters
| Manufacturer | Trijicon |
| Weight | 26.9 oz |
| Eye Relief | 3.8 inches |
| Magnification | 5x-20x |
| Field of View | 19.1-4.2 ft/100 yds |
The Bottom Line
This phenomenal scope features one of the best-illuminated reticles I’ve ever seen. As a result, it’s a particularly excellent choice for hunters that spend time in low light conditions. It’s also exceptionally durable and features great windage and elevation turrets.
My rating: 4.5/5
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a sniper scope work?
A sniper scope is a customized device that consists of components that place a targeting reticule (crosshairs) over an amplified image.
Snipers compare point of aim to point of impact while sighting a target using a scope. Simply put, where you aim while firing a bullet from more than 600 yards will not be where the bullet lands. During its long journey to the target, the bullet is subjected to a variety of factors. Snipers want that their point of aim and point of impact be the same. Once range, heat, and windage have been considered into the shot, they line up these locations with tiny adjustments to the scope.
Do I need a lot of magnification?
When it comes to magnification, most people believe the more zoom you have, the better. However, this is not the case in this instance. Excessive magnification will restrict you in a variety of ways.
When you aim your scope at the maximum zoom out image, the field of view is limited, making it difficult to find the target.
In general, the best scope is one that provides the best image at the lowest magnification.
How much should I pay?
You’re surely aware that less is worse, which means that if you go too low for a discount, you’ll wind up with a low-quality optic that will break after a few shots.
If you have a limited budget, buying a cheap one can save you money, but it will either cause stress or ruin your game. You don’t need to spend a fortune on it; a mid-range rifle sight will suffice as a starting point.
And when you advance, a little extra investment can help you get a long way. I recommend starting with $300 – $350 and working your way up to $600 – $700.
If you are a more experienced and frequent shooter, though, you may want to spend extra money on a high-quality sight.
What is the best scope magnification for the distance?
What you need to know about the best scope magnification is what you want to get out of the game. While target shooting necessitates a higher magnification setting based on range, hunting typically necessitates a lower magnification level based on target size and distance.
A good hunting distance is between 200 and 400 yards, and sometimes much more. The smaller the magnification, the faster you can locate objects in the scope.
This is when your greatest magnification comes in helpful for target or competitive shooting. You won’t require a large range of view, and you won’t have to search for the target.
These items will not move, so you’ll need a scope with the highest magnification available to capture the best shot.
What are the best scope brands?
Honestly, I could include hundreds of scope brands here, and the list could go on forever. But what distinguishes one scope from another? It refers to the number of glass specifications, features, materials, and quality.
Manufacturers, on the other hand, play an important role in the game because they have been researching and producing rifle optics for many years. Based on the previous design and customer feedback, each model is improving.
To summarize, there is no best brand; rather, there are only wise buyers, because everyone has different demands and needs.
Concluding My Sniper Scopes Guide
The right sniper scope will be the correct range, have the right features, and be durable enough for your purposes. One of the above choices should be perfect since there’s an option for just about every sniping scenario you can imagine. Good hunting out there!
If you are interested to read more of my articles you can check my review on rifle scopes under $1000 or my guide on the best crossbow scopes.
Mike Fellon was born and raised in Dallas, Texas. He inherited his hunting passions after his father John – he was fascinated by his stories, hearing how much attention, focus, dedication and patience he invested in shooting every animal. When he was old enough, his father first allowed him to shoot some cans and bottles with his shotgun, and then took him hunting – it was love at first sight. Mike has never stopped pursuing his hobby ever since.