Over the past several years, long-range hunting has boomed in the market for the best long-range scope under 1000. Buying a one thousand dollar price point optic can be a high price to pay. While paying such a high price your expectations will also be high.
The riflescope needs to be clear, precise, and durable. The characteristics are unique and include features such as multi-coated lenses, zero reset turrets, and a single piece construction.
Here you can find the best long-range scope reviews in no particular order. View our detailed comparison list of the top contenders to find one suited for your hunting needs.
| Product Name | Magnification | F.O.V @ 100 Yards | Durability | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vortex VHS-4310 Viper HS-T | 6 - 24x | 17.8 - 5.1 feet | Capped Turret Style and Parallax Setting 50 yards to infinity | Check price on Amazon |
| Bushnell Elite Tactical G2 | 6 - 24x | 17.5/5.3@x 4.5/1.5@2x | Fully Multi-Coated with Ultra Wide Band Coating, has Side Parallax Setting | Check price on Amazon |
| Vortex Viper PST | 6 - 24x | 17.8 - 5.1 feet | Tactical CRS Zero Stop Turret Style and Parallax Setting 50 yards to infinity | Check price on Amazon |
| Burris XTR II | 3 - 15x | 36 low – 7.5 high | Has a Rotary Dial to save the battery power and adjustable Parallax setting | Check price on Amazon |
| Sightron SIII SS | 8 - 32x | 12.2 - 3.1 | Resettable Knob Styled Tactical Setting with Side Focus, Waterproof, Side Focus | Check price on Amazon |
| Leupold VX-3 | 6.50x low - 19.50x high | 14.3 low - 5.50 high | Suitable to use for hunting, target shooting, tactical and plinking | Check price on Amazon |
| Tract Toric | 3 - 15x | 34 low - 6.9 high | Turret kit with locking and zero stop | Check price on Amazon |
| Nikon ProStaff 7 SF M BDC | 5 - 20x | 7.3 @ 5x , 1.8 @ 20x meter | BDC Duplex Reticle | Check price on Amazon |
Factors to Consider Before Purchase
Since the rifles invention, metallic sights have been an important part of the migration. However, these days fewer rifles have an iron sight. Luckily, for you, there are some excellent additions available for the dedicated bench shooter, tactical shooter, and seasonal hunter.
With the correct iron sight, it allows you to see targets clear and gives you a more precise aim when needed the most. As the markets overfilled with riflescopes, the different features can weigh one down.
With our guide here, you can learn the basics of the different features available in optics and choose the ideal model best suited for your lifestyle and needs.
How do you read a scope?
The fundamentals of any riflescopes specified in a consistent configuration as you read the magnification first and followed by the diameter of the objective lens. The magnification and objective lens separated by an “x.” When viewing through the scope the magnification number identifies how many times the image enlargers.
Sometimes you find that there are two sets of number separated by a dash and shows that the magnifications adjustable. One finds this in a variable scope and shows you can adjust the optic over a range of numbers from low to high.
For instance, a 6-9x50mm riflescope can give you a 6x – 9x magnification and anywhere in-between. The 50mm describes the forward lens known as the objective lens.
What type of optical power do you need?
Before buying a rifle scope, you need to figure out what optical power you need in magnification. This magnification determines the limit of use as a bench rest shooter that wants to shoot at 1,000 yards needs a 6X scope while a hunter will have a hard time seeing his target with a 32X scope.
As a shooter, you need to remember the lower the magnification the faster and better your target tracking will be. With a higher magnification beyond 16 X gives you a greater target resolution.
For offhand shooting up to 500 yards, a magnification lower than 10X is perfect while a higher resolution than mentioned here is suitable for rifles fired from a support. Using a variable scope gives you the option of using it for different types of shooting.
Now that you have decided on the magnification, it is time to choose the objective lens. This is important as the forward lens transmits ambient light to focus on the target.
The larger the lens is the more lights transmitted to the eye giving you a brighter image. Here you need to remember that the higher the objective diameter you may need to mount the scope higher.
Choosing the right reticle
There are different reticle patterns from a center dot to more complex ones. Here are the most popular types:
- Duplex – this reticle characterized by a thin crosshair that becomes thicker and focuses your eye towards the center of the riflescope while the thick outer lines help when you use it in low lighting conditions. These are best suited for target shooting and hunting.
- Mildot – this style reticles measured in milliradian and based on the duplex pattern with a powerful augmentation. This helps you to determine the range of a target and helps to make an intuitive adjustment for elevation and windage. These types of reticles are popular in the law and military used by snipers. If you are going to shoot beyond 300 yards, we recommend you buy a scope with this type of reticle.
- BDC – the bullet drop compensator is popular among shooters and allows for precise shooting at different target ranges without the need of adjusting the windage & elevation. They are superb for shooting beyond the 500-yard mark.
The difference between MOA and MRAD
Now that the power and reticles sorted, it is time to decide how you want to adjust the scope. In our reviews, you will find two measurements to adjust the riflescope:
- Minute of Angle – the MOA is typically related to linear inches as 1MOA corresponds with 1-inch @ a distance of 100 yards. With MOA, it gives an accurate zeroing than the milliradian as the increments smaller. Typically, it is ¼ -inch @ 100 yards or even half of it and great for long-range shooting. When paired with a BDC and duplex reticle the MOA adjustment works best and works with an adjustment screw.
- Milradian – also known as mil, mils or MRAD and is a fractional section of an angle such as 1 milliradian is about 3.6-inches @ 100-yards. This allows for a simpler adjustment compared to MOA as the reticles used as a ruler. For example, when observing through the optic at a target and you see that the bullet had an impact of 1.2 mil below the crosshair center you can adjust the setting up to 1.2 mil to make your next shot.
What is Focal Plane and Parallax?
The majority of modern optics has two positions for placing the reticle known as the FFP (first focal plane) and SFP (second focal plane.)
- SFP – this means that when you change the magnification level the reticle stays the same size giving you a clear and consistent image.
- FFP – here you will find the reticle moves up and down when changing the magnification.
- Parallax – this is when the reticle changes position when you move your head and happens when the optic does not focus on the target and the optical plane leading to missed shots.
Now that we have covered, all the important features to look for when buying your long-range riflescope stay a while and read our detailed reviews that follow here.
Top Products on the Market
Below you can find each of the long-range scopes in our comparison list reviewed for your convenience with features, pros & cons, price range, and best use.
Vortex Optics VHS-4310 Viper
Magnification: 6 – 25x
Objective lens: 50 mm
Length: 15.5 inches
Reticle pattern: V-Plex SFP (MOA)
Specific features: XD™ elements for extra-low dispersion, xr™ multi-coated to increase light transmission, armortek guard protecting the lenses
Included: The long-range scope and a lifetime warranty
Best use: Long range plinking and coyote sniping
If you are in need of the perfect riflescope for plinking and hunting, the Vortex Optics VHS-4310 Viper is ideal and a popular hunting scope. The hunting and shooting tactical scope have a strong one-piece 30mm tube made from aluminum.
The XD lens helps to increase the resolution making images clearer while the XR multi-coating over the lens helps increase the light transmission. It has a second focal plane reticle for improving holdover, range and wind drift and accurate at 18X magnification.
The units o-ring sealed and filled with argon gas and prevents moisture, debris, and dust from entering the scope making it fog- and waterproof. It has an ArmorTrek scratch-resistant coating to protect the riflescope with tactical-styled turrets for accurate readings of elevation & windage.
Adjusting the scopes easy with the side focus found on the left side giving you ease of access when used from any shooting position. This gives you optimal imagery when focusing and helps with parallax removal.
PROS:
- Good quality rifle optic
- Great value
- Strong build with clear optics
- Accurate windage and elevation
- Superb for tactical use
- Dials easy to read
- Zeroes in well
CONS:
- The higher the magnification the image becomes blurry
Related: Pair the Viper with a riflescope bubble level for precise long-range shooting making sure it is vertical. Keep the optic protected with the flip cap optic cover available in a size 5 or 7. For, keeping the riflescope clean you can buy the fog free field kit that is lightweight enough to take with you anywhere.
Bushnell Elite G2
Magnification: 6 – 24x
Objective lens: 50 mm
Length: 13.5 inches
Reticle pattern: G2 DMR FFP reticle
Specific features: Multicoated optic, rain guard HD anti-fog technology, side focus parallax, .1 mil click value, argon purged,
Included: 3-inch sunshade and limited lifetime warranty
Best use: Snipers and shooters
The Bushnell Elite G2 is a top of the line optic for the shooter out hunting or the sniper. This is an Ultra Wide Band multicoated optic with superb lighting transmission giving you clear images. For superior visibility and accurate shooting, it has a mil-based reticle with adjustable power for brightness when used at an extended-range.
This type of reticle is First Focal Plane and great for holdover, ranging and correcting of windage while the side focus parallax ensures long-range accuracy. Made from aluminum in a 30mm one-piece tube it can withstand the toughest conditions and includes a two-inch sunshade to help eliminate reflection.
Furthermore, it has a rain guard and argon gas filled making the scope fog- and waterproof. This is a leading long range scope giving you accuracy and visibility when you need it the most.
PROS:
- Great looking inside and out
- Clear
- Amazing controls that adjust with ease even when using gloves
- Good eye relief
- Value for money spent
- Includes a sun shade
- Superb warranty
CONS:
- Some tunneling & eye box restriction when used at a higher magnification
Related: Use with medium base rings for a perfect fit.
Vortex Viper PST 6-24×50
Magnification: 6 – 24x
Objective lens: 50 mm
Length: 15.5 inches
Reticle pattern: Second plane reticle, glass-etched reticle, and illuminated reticle
Specific features: Extra-low dispersion (xd), xr multi-coated lens, customizable rotational stop prevents zero loss when dialed, uncapped turrets, single spring construction
Included: Limited lifetime warranty
Best use: Hunters and tactical use
For, extended shooting the Vortex Viper PST 6-24×50 boasts some amazing features you find in top-tier scopes and makes a great long range optic. For magnification versatility, it has four times zooming range and gives you an increased eye relief for quickly seeing your target.
The XR multicoated lens augments light transmission when used in low-light conditions while the rotational stop helps to return to zero when correcting elevation.
The exposed target-style elevation turret is superb for dialing elevation when shooting at long ranges. It has a capped windage turret to maintain the sleek lines preventing it from tangling in your clothing, rifle case and more. The build is exceptional and machined with aluminum and the ArmorTrek makes the scope scratch-resistant.
Another standout feature is the fog-, water-, and shockproof structure. For a reliable scope, the Viper HS is ideal for different range shooting.
PROS:
- Affordable
- Optical clarity is good
- Gives little tactile feedback
- Turrets gives a great response
- Solid build
- Works well in low-light conditions
- Maintains zero well
- Adjustable illumination
- The reticle you can vary with the control knob
- Available in four reticle types that are both MOA & MRAD
- Fog- and waterproof
- Includes tactical modification controls with a zero stop feature
CONS:
- The ring that adjusts the magnification is on the stiff side
Related: We recommend you use the Vortex scope caps, as the material is durable and will keep your lens safe while moving.
Burris XTR II
Magnification: 3 – 15x
Objective lens: 50 mm
Length: 14.13 inches
Reticle pattern: FFP G2B Mil-Dot
Specific features: Front focal plane reticle, 1/10-mil ranging brackets, ¼ -MOA ranging brackets, multi-turn adjustment knobs, XT-100 click adjustment knob,
Included: Limited lifetime warranty
Best use: Precision rifle shooter in competitive and tactical use
The Burris XTR II is a serious hi-tech riflescope made for the competitive and tactical shooter. The front focal plane reticle increases and decreases in size as you augment and reduce the magnification. This helps to keep the trajectory compensation correct for a selected power setting.
The turrets are huge and give a solid response with concrete zero stop. To use the illuminations there are multiple powers to change the reticle while on the fly with low to high powers.
You can buy the optic in both mils and MOA. From long range, shooting less than 1000 this scope is perfect and packed with amazing features and superb glass quality.
The lens is Hi-Lume multi-coated and great to use in low-light conditions. The units shockproof and can withstand any type of heavy recoil. The internal assembly’s triple spring-tensions making the scope shockproof to use in severe recoil conditions.
PROS:
- Great magnification power
- Clear reticle
- Easy to adjust
- The turrets are flawless and hold zero well
- Long lasting battery use
CONS:
- There could be more space between the horseshoe and center dot
Related: For more mounting options, such as the ability to mount it on the highly popular Rem.700 La you should consider the Burris P.E.P.R 34mm mount.
Sightron SIII
Magnification: 8 – 32x
Objective lens: 56 mm
Length: 15.35 inches
Reticle pattern: 2 MOA
Specific features: Fast focus eyebell for easy adjustment, adjustable turrets in ¼ MOA adjustment and resettable to zero, side focus parallax, exact track for the elevation & windage alteration,
Included: Limited lifetime warranty and lens cover
Best use: Hunting and bench rest shooters
The Sightron SIII is made for the outdoorsmen serious about bringing home the trophy. With one-tube 30mm construction made from aircraft aluminum giving it durability when out in the field. The optics are fog- and waterproof as they are filled with nitrogen and has a lifetime internal protection against weather.
Additionally, it has a fast focus eyeball that helps when you quickly turn your eyeball and focuses in seconds. The unit has ExacTrack elevation & windage adjustment with a large ¼ MOA adjustment knob. The target knobs are resettable to zero and protected by windage & elevation caps.
Besides all the above features it has a side parallax focus, that is great for bench shooting and has a ZACT-7 layer of coating found on the glass. This is an amazing characteristic as it provides a higher light transmission and resolution.
PROS:
- Superb glass quality
- Solid build
- Superb price for all the features included
- Using the windage and elevation is always dead-on and returns to zero with ease
CONS:
- The scope caps fits loosely and can get lost when used
Related: You can keep your optic covered with a scope coat or use the 56mm sunshade to cut down on the glare.
Leupold VX-3
Magnification: 6.5 – 20x
Objective lens: 50 mm
Length: 14.6 inches
Reticle pattern: Duplex
Specific features: Xtended twilight lens system, diamondcoat 2, generous eye box, blackened lens
Included: Lifetime warranty
Best use: Hunting
For the hunter in need of long-range shooting, the Leupold VX-3 is the optic to have. With the compact durable body of this scope, you receive a duplex reticle with superb performance. The Xtended Twilight lens helps to optimize transmission when used in low-light environments giving you clear images.
Keeping the lens in tip-top condition, it has a DiamondCoat 2 coating making sure it is scratch-resistant. The edges of the lens blackened this helps to lessen light making images brighter with an improved contrast.
Magnification on the VX-3 is lockable and for ease of use, it has a one-touch tactile power indicator. The eyepiece keeps the reticle focused and has a finger adjustable elevation & windage.
You can take the Leupold out into any type of weather situation, as it is fog- and waterproof and great value for money spent.
PROS:
- Easy parallax adjustment
- Affordable
- Awesome glass that is bright and clear
- Excellent warranty
CONS:
- Sometimes it is hard to find the target and you need to back off a bit
Related: A hunter can use the Mark 4 ARD Anti-Reflection and Alumina Flip Back Lens Cover Kit with the Leupold VX-3 to both keep the lens safe and reduce glare that could give away your position.
Tract Toric Impact
Magnification: 3 – 15x
Objective lens: 42 mm
Length: 13.84 inches
Reticle pattern: BDC
Specific features: Fully multi-coated, high-definition optical system, extra low dispersion, made with SCHOTT HT-glass for light transmission, glass etched impact BDC reticle
Included: Lifetime warranty, turret kit with locking features and zero stop
Best use: Hunting
The Tract Toric Impact riflescope is different to other brands available. The manufacturers have combined the binoculars with the optics on this unit.
This UHD optical system has a high transmission special glass for transmitting light with ease while the extra low dispersion gives clarity when out hunting. The lenses are fully multi-coated to give you bright images in any environment.
The optic comes with a high-profile turret kit and is great if you want to replace the current kit as it has a locking feature. This is very beneficial as it prevents the turret from moving when used in the toughest circumstances.
To prevent the optic from passing the zero it has a zero stop that works with a stop module after sighting in the rifle. Adjusting the optics windage & elevations easy and needs no extra tools. The turrets have a .25-MOA click-adjustment with 20 MOA adjustment per revolution.
What’s more is that you can take advantage of the quick focus eyepiece that gives you a constant 4-inch eye relief. For unsurpassed performance when used in low-light circumstances the glass etched T-Plex makes this all possible.
PROS:
- Clear glass
- Clear adjustment track
- Great value
- Argon gas sealed and completely fog- and waterproof
- The magnification adjustment is smooth
- Has a locking side-focus
- Easy to use adjustment knobs
CONS:
- None noted
Related: For convenience, we suggest you use the Maxima 1 in steel medium height ring with this riflescope and buy the TRACT lens pen for keeping the optics crystal clear
Nikon ProStaff 7 SF
Magnification: 5 – 20x
Objective lens: 50 mm
Length: 12.12 inches
Reticle pattern: BDC
Specific features: Have a 30 mm tube, anti-reflective lenses, spring loaded with zero-reset function, quick-focus eyepiece
Included: Lifetime warranty, sunshade
Best use: Long-range and short-range shooting
Nikon has been around the block many times and well known for renowned brands. The Nikon Prostaff 7 SF is an SF riflescope with a high magnification.
For long-range shooting, it has an expanded range of elevation while the multilayer-coated lens is perfect to use in low lighting conditions as well. You can choose between two reticles duplex and bullet drop compensation.
The optic has a 30mm diameter tube with a 4x zoom ratio while the elevation & windage adjustment is ¼ MOA. The spring-loaded system gives you an instant zero-reset. The multicoated lens makes it possible to view images clear and has a quick-focus eyepiece with ample eye relief.
For quick focus from any position, the side focus is perfect with the parallax adjustment. There is no concern when using this riflescope in wet weather as it is fog- and waterproof and includes a sunshade.
This do-it-all scope has a BDC reticle with constant 4-inch eye relief and 4X zoom ratio and side focus parallax you can adjust with ease.
PROS:
- Clear image
- Good quality
- Durable construction
- Use in any type of weather
- Affordable
CONS:
- Reticle not illuminated and not air gun rated
Related: As the ProStaff, riflescope does not include mounting rings we suggest you buy yourself the Nikon S-Series high rings
Final Thoughts
If you are a hunter, our selection of the best long-range scopes under 1000 is sure to please you. Each of these models available in our review is excellent. They are great for mid-range to long-range hunting. They are suitable for any type of environment as they present you with weather-enhanced features from fog- to waterproofing.
These scopes are variable and you can adjust them for any type of hunting situation. With these types of scopes, you have loads of power when in need of shooting for long distances. View your target in the distance making sure it has not swapped places with another while obtaining a perfect image.
Some feature BDC and advanced optic systems with amazing technology. If you are in need of a high-quality riflescope that you can buy at an affordable price, we are sure you will find one available here. These are flagship optics with side focus and a variety of reticle options to make your next hunting trip a breeze.
Lastly, we’d love to know if you have any experience with our picks. If so would you let us know about it in the comments section below?
