Long-range scopes are optical devices used for shooting at targets that are located at a significant distance away. These scopes are designed to provide shooters with a clear and magnified view of their target, allowing for more accurate and precise shots. Choosing the right long-range scope is crucial for any shooter, as it can greatly impact their shooting performance and overall experience.
The history of long-range scopes dates back to the early 20th century when they were first introduced for military use. These scopes were initially used by snipers in World War I and World War II to engage targets at long distances. Over time, advancements in technology and manufacturing processes have led to the development of more sophisticated and high-quality long-range scopes for both military and civilian use.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Long-Range Scope
When choosing a long-range scope, there are several factors that need to be taken into consideration:
1. Magnification Range: The magnification range of a scope determines how much the image is enlarged. For long-range shooting, it is important to choose a scope with a high magnification range to clearly see targets at a distance.
2. Objective Lens Size: The size of the objective lens determines how much light can enter the scope, which affects the brightness and clarity of the image. A larger objective lens allows for more light transmission, resulting in a brighter image.
3. Reticle Type: The reticle, or crosshair, is an important component of a scope as it helps the shooter aim accurately. There are various reticle types available, including duplex, mil-dot, and BDC (bullet drop compensator), each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
4. Focal Plane: Scopes can have either a first focal plane (FFP) or a second focal plane (SFP). In an FFP scope, the reticle size changes as the magnification is adjusted, while in an SFP scope, the reticle size remains constant regardless of the magnification. The choice between FFP and SFP depends on personal preference and shooting style.
5. Durability and Construction: Long-range scopes need to be durable and able to withstand harsh conditions. Look for scopes that are made from high-quality materials, have a rugged construction, and are waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof.
6. Price Range: Long-range scopes can vary greatly in price, so it is important to set a budget and find a scope that offers the best value for money. Consider the features and specifications of different scopes and compare them to find one that meets your needs and budget.
Top 10 Long-Range Scopes on the Market
1. Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 FFP: This scope offers a wide magnification range, a large objective lens for excellent light transmission, an illuminated reticle, and a durable construction. It is known for its clear and crisp image quality and is suitable for long-range shooting.
2. Leupold VX-5HD 3-15×44: This scope features a versatile magnification range, a compact design, and a high-quality glass for superior image clarity. It also has a wide field of view and is known for its durability and reliability.
3. Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56 F1: This scope is known for its exceptional optical performance, high magnification range, and precise adjustments. It has a rugged construction and is designed to withstand extreme conditions.
4. Burris Optics XTR II 5-25×50: This scope offers a wide magnification range, a large objective lens for excellent light transmission, and an illuminated reticle. It is known for its durability and reliability.
5. Athlon Optics Ares ETR 4.5-30×56: This scope features a high magnification range, a large objective lens for excellent light transmission, and an illuminated reticle. It is known for its clear and bright image quality and is suitable for long-range shooting.
6. Swarovski X5i 5-25×56: This scope offers a wide magnification range, a large objective lens for excellent light transmission, and a high-quality glass for superior image clarity. It also has a precise and easy-to-use adjustment system.
Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 FFP Review
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 FFP is a popular choice among long-range shooters due to its impressive features and performance. This scope offers a magnification range of 5-25x, allowing shooters to engage targets at various distances with ease. The large 50mm objective lens ensures excellent light transmission, resulting in a bright and clear image even in low-light conditions.
One of the standout features of the Vortex Viper PST Gen II is its first focal plane (FFP) reticle. This means that the reticle size changes as the magnification is adjusted, allowing for accurate holdovers and ranging at any magnification setting. The illuminated reticle also provides added visibility in low-light conditions.
In terms of construction, the Vortex Viper PST Gen II is built to withstand harsh conditions. It is made from high-quality materials and is both waterproof and fog-proof. The scope also features tactical-style turrets with audible clicks for easy and precise adjustments.
Overall, the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 FFP is a reliable and high-performing long-range scope that offers excellent value for money.
Leupold VX-5HD 3-15×44 Review
The Leupold VX-5HD 3-15×44 is a versatile and compact long-range scope that offers exceptional performance. With a magnification range of 3-15x, this scope is suitable for a wide range of shooting applications, from close-quarters to long-range engagements.
The VX-5HD features a high-quality glass that provides excellent image clarity and brightness. The 44mm objective lens ensures optimal light transmission, resulting in a clear and bright image even in low-light conditions. The scope also has a wide field of view, allowing shooters to quickly acquire and track targets.
One of the standout features of the Leupold VX-5HD is its durability. It is made from high-quality materials and is both waterproof and fog-proof. The scope also features Leupold’s Twilight Max HD Light Management System, which enhances low-light performance and reduces glare.
The VX-5HD has a simple and intuitive adjustment system, with easy-to-use turrets for precise adjustments. The scope also features an illuminated reticle for added visibility in low-light conditions.
Overall, the Leupold VX-5HD 3-15×44 is a reliable and high-performing long-range scope that offers excellent versatility and durability.
Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56 F1 Review
The Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56 F1 is a top-of-the-line long-range scope that offers exceptional optical performance and precision. With a magnification range of 5-25x, this scope allows shooters to engage targets at extreme distances with ease.
The ATACR features a large 56mm objective lens, which ensures excellent light transmission and provides a bright and clear image even in low-light conditions. The high-quality glass used in this scope delivers exceptional image clarity and resolution.
One of the standout features of the Nightforce ATACR is its precise adjustments. The scope has tactical-style turrets with audible and tactile clicks, allowing for easy and precise adjustments. The scope also features an illuminated reticle with multiple brightness settings for added visibility in low-light conditions.
In terms of construction, the ATACR is built to withstand extreme conditions. It is made from high-quality materials and is both waterproof and fog-proof. The scope also has a rugged construction and is designed to withstand recoil.
Overall, the Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56 F1 is a high-end long-range scope that offers exceptional optical performance, precision, and durability.
Burris Optics XTR II 5-25×50 Review
The Burris Optics XTR II 5-25×50 is a reliable and high-performing long-range scope that offers excellent value for money. With a magnification range of 5-25x, this scope allows shooters to engage targets at various distances with ease.
The XTR II features a large 50mm objective lens, which ensures excellent light transmission and provides a bright and clear image even in low-light conditions. The high-quality glass used in this scope delivers exceptional image clarity and resolution.
One of the standout features of the Burris Optics XTR II is its illuminated reticle. The scope features an illuminated SCR Mil reticle, which provides quick target acquisition and precise holdovers. The illuminated reticle also provides added visibility in low-light conditions.
In terms of construction, the XTR II is built to withstand harsh conditions. It is made from high-quality materials and is both waterproof and fog-proof. The scope also has a rugged construction and is designed to withstand recoil.
Overall, the Burris Optics XTR II 5-25×50 is a reliable and high-performing long-range scope that offers excellent value for money.
Athlon Optics Ares ETR 4.5-30×56 Review
The Athlon Optics Ares ETR 4.5-30×56 is a high-quality long-range scope that offers exceptional performance and features. With a magnification range of 4.5-30x, this scope allows shooters to engage targets at extreme distances with ease.
The Ares ETR features a large 56mm objective lens, which ensures excellent light transmission and provides a bright and clear image even in low-light conditions. The high-quality glass used in this scope delivers exceptional image clarity and resolution.
One of the standout features of the Athlon Optics Ares ETR is its illuminated reticle. The scope features an illuminated APRS1 FFP MIL reticle, which provides quick target acquisition and precise holdovers. The illuminated reticle also provides added visibility in low-light conditions.
In terms of construction, the Ares ETR is built to withstand harsh conditions. It is made from high-quality materials and is both waterproof and fog-proof. The scope also has a rugged construction and is designed to withstand recoil.
Overall, the Athlon Optics Ares ETR 4.5-30×56 is a high-performing long-range scope that offers exceptional performance and features.
Swarovski X5i 5-25×56 Review
The Swarovski X5i 5-25×56 is a top-of-the-line long-range scope that offers exceptional optical performance and precision. With a magnification range of 5-25x, this scope allows shooters to engage targets at extreme distances with ease.
The X5i features a large 56mm objective lens, which ensures excellent light transmission and provides a bright and clear image even in low-light conditions. The high-quality glass used in this scope delivers exceptional image clarity and resolution.
One of the standout features of the Swarovski X5i is its precise adjustments. The scope has tactical-style turrets with audible and tactile clicks, allowing for easy and precise adjustments. The scope also features an illuminated reticle with multiple brightness settings for added visibility in low-light conditions.
In terms of construction, the X5i is built to withstand extreme conditions. It is made from high-quality materials and is both waterproof and fog-proof. The scope also has a rugged construction and is designed to withstand recoil.
Overall, the Swarovski X5i 5-25×56 is a top-of-the-line long-range scope that offers exceptional optical performance, precision, and durability.
Which Long-Range Scope is Right for You?
Choosing the right long-range scope depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as magnification range, objective lens size, reticle type, focal plane, durability, and price range when making your decision.
If you are looking for a reliable and high-performing long-range scope at an affordable price, the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 FFP or the Burris Optics XTR II 5-25×50 are excellent options. Both scopes offer a wide magnification range, a large objective lens for excellent light transmission, and an illuminated reticle.
For those who prioritize optical performance and precision, the Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56 F1 or the Swarovski X5i 5-25×56 are top-of-the-line choices. These scopes offer exceptional image clarity, precise adjustments, and a rugged construction.
Ultimately, the choice of a long-range scope depends on your shooting style, budget, and specific shooting needs. Consider your requirements and compare the features and specifications of different scopes to find one that best suits you.