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10 Best Rifle Scopes 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm F1 30mm Tube Illuminated ZeroSet Parallax Adjustable First Focal Plane Hunting Gun Scope, MIL-XT (C634)

Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm F1 30mm Tube Illuminated ZeroSet Parallax Adjustable First Focal Plane Hunting Gun Scope, MIL-XT (C634)

Nightforce

10.0 score

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The Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm is a versatile rifle scope well suited for hunters and shooters who need precision at both close and long distances. Its wide magnification range from 4x to 32x allows you to comfortably handle fast-moving targets up close and also zero in on small targets far away. The 50mm objective lens helps provide bright and clear images, which is especially helpful in varying light conditions. This scope features a first focal plane reticle (the MIL-XT), meaning the reticle size changes with zoom, allowing accurate holdovers at any magnification—great for competitive or field shooting. The ZeroStop feature makes it quick and easy to return to your original zero setting, saving time and effort in the field.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,126
Magnification
Reticle
Durability and Weather Resistance

Most important from
76 reviews

Magnification
Balances high magnification and durability, making it a dependable choice for both close and long-range shooting.
Reticle
The scope delivers instant target acquisition with remarkable clarity, making aiming fast and intuitive.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Arrives well-packaged and ready to perform, reflecting solid build quality and reliability.
#2
9.7 score

Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 34mm Tube Precise Illuminated First Focal Plane Black Hunting Gun Scope, Moar F1, C569

Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 34mm Tube Precise Illuminated First Focal Plane Black Hunting Gun Scope, Moar F1, C569

Nightforce

9.7 score

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The Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 rifle scope is designed for serious hunters and precision shooters who need a versatile and highly accurate optic. Its wide magnification range from 7x to 35x allows you to zoom in closely for long-distance shots while still being flexible enough for shorter ranges. The large 56mm objective lens gathers plenty of light, which helps provide a bright and clear view even in low light conditions like dawn or dusk. The MOAR F1 reticle, positioned in the first focal plane, is excellent for precise aiming and quick adjustments, featuring clear markings and illuminated options to improve visibility in various lighting scenarios.

Rating
9.7
Magnification
Reticle
Eye Relief

Most important from
45 reviews

Magnification
Adjustable eye relief and smooth magnification changes provide comfortable handling and versatility across distances.
Reticle
Image clarity is outstanding, with an exceptionally clear, illuminated reticle that enhances aiming in various lighting conditions.
Eye Relief
Adjustable eye relief and smooth magnification changes provide comfortable handling and versatility across distances.
Parallax Adjustment
Parallax adjustment is a bit unconventional since it doubles as the illumination control, which may affect precise focus settings.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Exceptional quality and rugged construction deliver a reliable, high-performance optic built to withstand tough conditions.
#3
8.5 score

Swarovski dS 5-25x52 P GEN. II - 4A-I Riflescope 71002

Swarovski dS 5-25x52 P GEN. II - 4A-I Riflescope 71002

Swarovski

8.5 score

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The Swarovski dS Digital Riflescope 5-25x52 P GEN. II offers a blend of advanced technology and high-performance optics that cater to avid hunters and shooting enthusiasts. Its magnification range of 5x to 25x allows for flexibility in various shooting scenarios, while the 52mm objective lens diameter ensures bright and clear visuals even in low-light conditions. The illuminated holdover reticle, coupled with windage marks, helps in making precise shots by indicating holdover points and wind speeds, which is particularly useful for long-range shooting up to 1500 yards thanks to its built-in range indication feature.

Top 10 Best Rifle Scopes 2026 in the United States

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ATN Thor LTV Ultra Light Thermal Hunting Scope 4K+ 4056x3040 Thermal Sensor, 4K Video Record, One Shot Zero, 10h+ Battery Power (640x480; 4-12x)

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#1

Winner

10.0  score
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Nightforce

Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm F1 30mm Tube Illuminated ZeroSet Parallax Adjustable First Focal Plane Hunting Gun Scope, MIL-XT (C634)

Magnification: 4-32x
Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
Reticle: MIL-XT, first focal plane
Eye Relief: 3.5 inches
Field of View: 26.1 to 4.6 feet
Parallax Adjustment: 11 yards to infinity
Durability and Weather Resistance: Aluminum body, 30mm tube, rugged

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Chosen by 1126 this week

Sponsored

Slide 1

theOpticGuru

ATN Thor LTV Ultra Light Thermal Hunting Scope 4K+ 4056x3040 Thermal Sensor, 4K Video Record, One Shot Zero, 10h+ Battery Power (640x480; 4-12x)

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#2
9.7  score
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Nightforce

Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 34mm Tube Precise Illuminated First Focal Plane Black Hunting Gun Scope, Moar F1, C569

Magnification: 7-35x
Objective Lens Diameter: 56 mm
Reticle: MOAR F1
Eye Relief: 3.6 inches
Parallax Adjustment: starts at 10 meters
Durability and Weather Resistance: aluminum, weather-resistant body

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#3
8.5  score
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Swarovski

Swarovski dS 5-25x52 P GEN. II - 4A-I Riflescope 71002

Magnification: 5x to 25x
Objective Lens Diameter: 52 Millimeters
Reticle: illuminated holdover reticle
Eye Relief: comfortable viewing
Durability and Weather Resistance: titanium, weather-resistant design

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#4
8.5  score
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Leupold

Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 (30mm) CDS-ZL2 Side Focus Wind-Plex Reticle Riflescope

Magnification: 3-15x
Objective Lens Diameter: 44 mm
Reticle: Wind-Plex Reticle
Field of View: 7.9 Feet
Parallax Adjustment: Side focus
Durability and Weather Resistance: Waterproof, fogproof, shockproof, aluminum

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#5
8.2  score
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Nightforce

Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm F1 30mm Tube Illuminated ZeroSet First Focal Plane Dark Earth Hunting Gun Scope, MIL-XT Reticle (C667)

Magnification: 4-32x
Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
Reticle: Mil-XT
Eye Relief: 3.5 inches
Field of View: 26 ft at 4x to 4.6 ft at 32x
Parallax Adjustment: 11 yards to infinity
Durability and Weather Resistance: 30mm aluminum tube, weather-resistant

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#6
8.2  score
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ZEISS

ZEISS LRP S3 6-36x56 First Focal Plane MOA Riflescope with Illuminated Reticle

Magnification: 6x to 36x
Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm
Reticle: First focal plane MOA
Parallax Adjustment: Yes
Durability and Weather Resistance: Robust 34mm tube, withstands shock

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#7
7.9  score
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Nightforce

Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm F1 30mm Tube Illuminated ZeroSet Parallax Adjustable First Focal Plane Hunting Gun Scope, Moar F1 (C624)

Magnification: 4-32x
Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
Reticle: MOAR F1
Eye Relief: 3.5 Inches
Field of View: 26.1 ft at 100 yds
Parallax Adjustment: 11 yds to infinity
Durability and Weather Resistance: Robust aluminum, withstands harsh conditions

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#8
7.9  score
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Burris

BURRIS Eliminator 6 4-20x52mm, X177, Black (200177)

Magnification: 4-20x
Objective Lens Diameter: 52 mm
Reticle: X177
Eye Relief: 3.4 inches
Field of View: 30.5 feet
Parallax Adjustment: Side focus knob
Durability and Weather Resistance: Aluminum

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#9
7.6  score
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Nightforce

Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm F1 30mm Tube Illuminated ZeroSet First Focal Plane Dark Earth Hunting Gun Scope, Horus TREMOR3 - Illuminated (C666)

Magnification: 4x to 32x
Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
Reticle: Horus TREMOR3 - Illuminated
Eye Relief: 3.5 Inches
Field of View: 26.1 ft at 4x, 4.6 ft at 32x
Parallax Adjustment: 11 yards to infinity

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#10
7.0  score
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ZEISS

ZEISS LRP S3 6-36x56 First Focal Plane MRAD Riflescope with Illuminated Reticle

Magnification: 6-36x
Objective Lens Diameter: 56 mm
Reticle: Illum. ZF-MRi Reticle
Eye Relief: 3 Inches
Durability and Weather Resistance: Validated by shock tests, LotuTec coating

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Buying Guide for the Best Rifle Scopes

Choosing the right rifle scope can significantly enhance your shooting experience, whether you're hunting, target shooting, or engaging in tactical operations. The right scope will improve your accuracy, range, and overall performance. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your specific needs and preferences.
MagnificationMagnification refers to how much closer the target appears through the scope compared to the naked eye. This is crucial because it determines how well you can see your target at various distances. Scopes typically have fixed or variable magnification. Fixed magnification scopes are simpler and more durable, while variable magnification scopes offer flexibility for different shooting scenarios. For close-range shooting, a lower magnification (1-4x) is sufficient. For medium-range, consider 5-9x, and for long-range shooting, 10x or higher is ideal. Choose based on the typical distance you will be shooting.
Objective Lens DiameterThe objective lens diameter is the size of the front lens of the scope, measured in millimeters. This spec is important because it affects the amount of light that enters the scope, impacting image brightness and clarity. Larger diameters (40mm and above) allow more light, which is beneficial in low-light conditions but can make the scope heavier and bulkier. Smaller diameters (below 40mm) are lighter and more compact but may not perform as well in dim lighting. Consider where and when you will be shooting to determine the right size for you.
ReticleThe reticle, or crosshair, is the aiming point you see when looking through the scope. Different reticle designs serve different purposes. Simple crosshairs are great for general use, while more complex reticles with hash marks or dots can help with range estimation and bullet drop compensation. Illuminated reticles are useful in low-light conditions. Choose a reticle that matches your shooting style and needs. For example, hunters might prefer a simple reticle, while long-range shooters might benefit from a more detailed design.
Eye ReliefEye relief is the distance between your eye and the scope at which you can see the full image. This is important for comfort and safety, especially with high-recoil rifles. Longer eye relief (3.5 inches or more) is better for high-recoil firearms to prevent the scope from hitting your face. Shorter eye relief (around 3 inches) can be acceptable for low-recoil rifles. Consider the type of rifle you are using and your comfort level when choosing the appropriate eye relief.
Field of ViewField of view (FOV) is the width of the area you can see through the scope at a specific distance, usually measured in feet at 100 yards. A wider FOV allows you to see more of the surrounding area, which is beneficial for tracking moving targets and situational awareness. Higher magnification typically reduces FOV. If you need to track fast-moving targets or require a broad view of your surroundings, opt for a scope with a wider FOV. For precision shooting at long distances, a narrower FOV may be acceptable.
Parallax AdjustmentParallax adjustment helps to eliminate the parallax error, which occurs when the reticle appears to move against the target when you move your head. This is important for accuracy, especially at longer distances. Scopes with parallax adjustment allow you to fine-tune the focus for different ranges, ensuring the reticle stays on target. If you are shooting at varying distances or require high precision, a scope with parallax adjustment is beneficial. For fixed-distance shooting, this feature may be less critical.
Durability and Weather ResistanceDurability and weather resistance are crucial for ensuring your scope can withstand harsh conditions and rough handling. Look for scopes that are waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof. These features ensure that the scope remains functional in various weather conditions and can handle the recoil of your rifle. If you plan to use your rifle in challenging environments, prioritize scopes with robust construction and reliable weatherproofing.

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