Best Rifle Scopes for Long-Range Hunting

Let’s face it: when you’re out there in the field, your rifle is only as good as the glass perched on top. A solid riflescope isn’t just a fancy accessory—it’s the difference between a sure shot and a missed opportunity, especially when you’re talking about long range shooting. At Nexgen Outfitters, we’ve scoured the market and handpicked what we believe are the best rifle scopes for long-range hunting. We’re talking trusted names like Athlon, Vortex, Hawke, and Nocpix—the kind of brands that serious hunters swear by.

Why the Right Rifle Scope Matters for Long-Range Hunting

Here’s the thing: if you don’t get this right, you’re just throwing darts blindfolded. Accuracy and clarity, especially in low light, reticle design, and toughness—these aren’t just buzzwords; they’re what separate a decent day in the field from one you’ll never forget (for all the right reasons). Now, anyone who’s serious about their hunting knows typical shooting distances can vary wildly, so selecting a scope that matches those needs is key. Trust me, you don’t want to settle for a second focal plane scope when your shot calls for the dynamic reticle sizing of first focal plane scopes—or vice versa. Understanding these nuances can make your kit incredibly versatile.

Key Features to Consider

Magnification Range

Why settle for less? The magnification range on your scope is like your Swiss Army knife—it needs to cover all the bases. For long-range hunting, you’re looking at something like 4-24x or 5-25x, maybe even higher if you’re dealing with open terrain that stretches forever. A lightweight hunting rifle combined with that kind of magnification range means you won’t miss out on clarity or precision when you dial it up, but you’ll also have a manageable view when dialing down. It's about balance—too much zoom and you lose your footing; too little, and you’re squinting across the field.

Optical Clarity & Reticle Options

Now, clarity isn’t just for show. HD or UHD glass is essential, especially if dawn and dusk are your prime hunting times. Ever tried hunting in low light with a fuzzy lens? Yeah. Not fun. Then there’s the choice between first focal plane and second focal plane reticles, and this is where it gets interesting. First focal plane scopes let your reticle scale with your zoom, which means those ballistic markings stay accurate no matter your magnification. On the flip side, second focal plane scopes keep the reticle size steady, which some folks find simpler—just remember they’re best used at specific magnifications. And if you’re a serious long range shooter, an illuminated reticle can be a game changer when the light’s just right (or wrong, depending on how you look at it).

Turrets & Tracking Adjustments

Listen, you don’t want to fiddle around and guess your adjustments halfway through a stalk. Features like zero stop and exposed turrets allow for quick, tactile changes you can trust. And trust is everything when your bullet’s about to cover hundreds of yards. A scope with precise, repeatable tracking is the unsung hero here—it’s the reason why repeated adjustments land you on target (and why one of our clients swears by their Athlon Forerunner for its ridiculously reliable tracking). This kind of precision turns you from an average marksman into a formidable long-range shooter.

Durability & Weatherproofing

Let me break it to you gently: your rifle scope won’t always get pampered. Time on the trail means dirt, rain, fog, and the occasional accidental smack. So, your scope needs to be shockproof, waterproof, fog-proof—the whole nine yards. It’s not just about bragging rights on how tough your scope is; it’s about knowing it won’t give up on you when you need it the most.

Top 10 Best Rifle Scopes for Long-Range Hunting

Alright, we’ve laid down the groundwork. Now let’s talk specifics. Here are our top 10 picks, all tested on the field, where clarity, precision, and ruggedness truly matter. Click any scope to check it out and shop straight from Nexgen Outfitters.

Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x50 CDS-ZL Duplex Riflescope

The Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x50 riflescope combines lightweight durability with exceptional optical clarity. Its versatile magnification and large lens excel in low-light conditions, making it perfect for mountain and timber hunting. With easy, precise adjustments and a reliable zero-lock dial, it’s a top choice for serious hunters seeking dependable performance.

Vortex Viper HD 5-25x50 FFP VMR-4 MRAD Riflescope

The Vortex Viper HD 5-25x50 riflescope delivers rugged durability and sharp optics with an illuminated reticle and precise long-range adjustments, perfect for serious hunters in low-light conditions.

Athlon Optics Forerunner 6-24x50 AHLR1 FFP MOA Riflescope

An excellent entry into the world of first focal plane scopes, this model balances affordability with bright, reliable glass and solid adjustments. If you’re stepping up from mid range scopes or new to focal plane scopes, it’s a terrific starting point.

Athlon Optics Argos BTR Gen3 8-34x56 APRS11 FFP IR MIL Riflescope

Big magnification range meets an illuminated reticle here, ideal when you’re pushing the limits of long range shooting. It’s the scope that says, “I’m serious—and I want every advantage.”

Athlon Optics Midas TAC Gen2 HD 5-30x56 APRS15 FFP MIL Riflescope

Perfectly balanced HD clarity and precision turret tracking. Not the most expensive scopes on the market, but definitely packing performance that will impress the long range shooter who wants a bit more.

Athlon Optics Ares BTR Gen3 HD 4.5-27x50 APRS13 FFP IR MIL Riflescope

This rugged hunting scope is a no-nonsense tool with exceptional glass quality, built to endure serious big-game challenges. If you hunt tough terrain, this one’s a real contender.

Vortex Razor HD LHT 4.5-22x50 FFP Riflescope

Light as a feather but sharp as a tack—this one suits hunters covering rugged and uneven ground who need a reliable partner without the bulk.

Hawke Endurance 30 WA 2.5-10x50 LRC Riflescope

Don’t let the moderate magnification fool you; this scope boasts a wide field of view and solid low-light performance. It’s the dependable hunting scope for all-around use.

Nocpix Slim-L35 Thermal Riflescope

Looking to see wildlife when the world goes dark? This premium thermal scope lets you out-hunt nature’s cover of darkness with insane visibility and pinpoint accuracy.

Leupold VX-6HD Gen 2 4-24x52 FireDot Duplex Riflescope

The Leupold VX-6HD Gen 2 4-24x52 offers exceptional clarity and light transmission with rugged durability. Its wide zoom, illuminated reticle, and waterproof design make it a reliable choice for hunting in any condition.

Comparison Table: Best Rifle Scopes for Long-Range Hunting

We put magnification range, reticle type—whether first focal plane or second focal plane—and weight side by side for you. Plus, insight into the best use case for each model. It’s your personal cheat sheet to finding the scope that fits your unique style like a glove.

How to Pick the Right Scope for Your Hunting Style

Big Game vs. Varmint

For big game, you’ll want higher magnification and reticles with ballistic markings—usually first focal plane scopes come out on top here. Varmint hunts? Mid range scopes with faster target acquisition might be your best bet.

Open Plains vs. Mountain Hunts

Hunting open plains calls for scopes with longer magnification ranges and trusted parallax adjustment since shots can stretch out more than you think. In the mountains, you want a lightweight hunting rifle teamed up with a scope that’s easy to adjust on the fly.

Daylight vs. Low-Light Hunting

Scouting in daylight is a breeze with standard scopes, but when the sun dips below the horizon, those illuminated reticles and HD glass become your best friends.

Pro Tips for Long-Range Hunters

• First off, get your scope mounted and zeroed properly—yes, it sounds basic, but you’d be surprised how often this is overlooked.
• Second, use ballistic calculators—they’re like having a seasoned guide whispering in your ear about bullet drop and wind.
• Third, take care of your lenses: clean and protect them with a diligence that would impress even the most meticulous watchmaker.

Shop the Best Long-Range Rifle Scopes at Nexgen Outfitters

Got your eye on a particular model? Or maybe just browsing? Either way, our optics collection is a goldmine for hunters who demand the best—whether you’re after affordable precision or those pricey, expensive scopes loaded with features. At Nexgen Outfitters, we’re here to help you outgun the terrain and walk away with a story worth telling. Can't decide, contact our experienced team today for advice!