A riflescope is a weapon sight to a shooter and it is used for its intended purpose – aiming. To an engineer, the riflescope is an optomechanical device also used for aiming. Today, the best 1-4 scope is not always a pure optomechanical device. They are more than that.
Since quite a few riflescopes that have some electronics in them, the device molded its distinction, especially to a shooter. For an exceptionally great use of the riflescope, engineers are designing the device with a lot more details to it. They have also been designed with a pretty clear idea what it will be used for and what kind of abuse it is likely to be given.
In order to stand all reasonable and unreasonable abuse, the creation of the device should stay within other design requirements pertaining to size, weight, optical performance, and of course, budget.
Shooters who are trying to select the best scopes often end up considering the very different factors. Typically, what comes to mind then be is how much money be spent and what the overall configuration should be.
Oftentimes, a shooter is supremely unaware of how challenging the device is designed. However, with some basic knowledge of riflescope construction, how much you can spend and what you need out of it is essential, especially if you are looking for the best scope.
Let’s dig into the details of what the best scopes are and how to select them. But first, make sure you won’t miss anything. The table below indicates the key differences between the 10 riflescopes we have reviewed.
Our Top Picks
| Product Name | Magnification | Objective Lens | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burris MTAC 1-4 X 24 | 1 - 4x | 24 mm | Check price on Amazon |
| Barska 1-4×28 IR Hunting | 1 - 4x | 28 mm | Check price on Amazon |
| Mueller Speed 1-4X 24MM | 1 - 4x | 24 mm | Check price on Amazon |
| MonstrumTactical 1-4×20 | 1 - 4x | 20 mm | Check price on Amazon |
| BSA Optics TW1-4X24 | 1 - 4x | 24 mm | Check price on Amazon |
| Primary Arms 1-4X 24 Illuminated | 1 - 4x | 24 mm | Check price on Amazon |
| Bushnell AR Optics Drop Zone-223 | 1 - 4x | 24 mm | Check price on Amazon |
| Vortex Optics Crossfire II 1-4X24MM | 1 - 4x | 24 mm | Check price on Amazon |
| Firefield 1-4×24 | 1 - 4x | 24 mm | Check price on Amazon |
| Leupold 114933 VX-HOG | 1 - 4x | 24 mm | Check price on Amazon |
Things to Look for Before Buying
It is important to be familiar with the important features before popping out a dollar on any riflescope. Like we mentioned above that these products come in different designs and constructions, one need to prioritize some features to buy the best one. To narrow down your search, we have discussed some imperative features below:
Optical Quality
One great way to test the optical quality of the device is to get a couple of scopes with widely differing price tags. But make sure they are in similar configurations and look through them side by side for a few minutes. You may notice that lower price ranges have poorer optical quality. However, the differences are often quite small since some companies ensuring you get what you pay for.
Mechanical Quality
Scopes may look the same but when you look closer, you see the difference. Generally, cheap scopes are believed to be less durable, less precise adjustments and are prone to other mechanical problems than those more expensive kinds. Nowadays, scopes from the mid-price range onward are quite good. But, there are different users of course; the purchase should depend on the application and expectations of an individual user.
Durability
Before deciding to buy anything, make sure it is durable. Durability is one of the most important factors to look for in a device, so you can have the product for long. If it is not, then you are not getting the worth you paid for and you are just opening a major can of worms.
Fight poor quality by doing a meticulous research about things you plan to purchase. See how well the scope holds up to. Durable scope performance should have no change in any perceptible manner as it is used.
Control and Adjustment
Most riflescopes don’t have all that many adjustments and controls that can be screwed up. Some scopes also have very little clarity in how to use those adjustments and controls they are built in. Most modern scopes, the cheap or the very expensive ones, have more control than the old ones.
The vast majority of scopes currently have variable magnification, zoom ring, and many other controls. When you purchase a scope, make sure you get advanced controls and adjustments for a more incredible scope experience.
Resolution and Contrast
The resolution and contrast are both refer to the image quality and they are influenced by a number of optical design parameters. Since they are sometimes are confused with each other, it is better to give definition to these two terms. Resolution is simply the aptitude of the scope to differentiate small details within the image.
On the other hand, the contrast is the ability of the scope to transmit the difference between dark and light. Since we all have different eyes, the resolution and contrast may be sensitive to different things.
Best Products on Today’s Market
Burris MTAC Scope
Weight: 17 ounces
Dimension: 6.8 x 18.8 x 4 inches
Specific features: Optical performance, precise lenses, high-resolution images
Best use: Big game hunting
The Burris MTAC Scope offers accuracy, performance, and versatility. This device is the perfect match for AR platforms, which users can quickly engage close targets. Hunters can also take precise aim out to 600 yards making it great for more challenging game hunting.
This scope also delivers optical performance. The lenses are index matched and multi-coated with HiLume. The device is able to give clear, sharp and high-resolution images. Quality is guaranteed since the product is using the highest quality materials.
The scope has been tested for complete quality and reliability securing the trust from users. The device has 24 mm to 6 mm exit pupil and it can be adjusted from 130-inch at 100 yards maximum. The field of view is 100 feet at 100 yards.
Most Burris 200437 MTAC 1-4 x 24 Illuminated Scope users just love how the device work. It was known to be a phenomenal scope that’s worth the money. With it, you can get fantastic eye relief. A variable 1 to 4 power scope is “very nearly” a true 1 power.
The actual magnification or distortion is virtually nonexistent keeping both eyes open when looking through the scope at 1 power. If the device is used in full sunlight, the reticle is very crisp and visible and does not interfere with vision.
PROS:
- Quality optical performance
- Accuracy and precision of aiming up to 600 yards
- Wide and impressive field of view
- Its reticle does not interfere with the vision as is the case with other riflescopes on the market
- Great magnification with crisp detailed images
CONS:
- It is quite expensive
Related: To safeguard your scope, we recommend getting the Flip-Open Eyepiece Scope Cover as an add-on product. Using the scope in the wilderness may subject it to the damages on the eyepiece. Having this cover will protect it against unexpected drops to the ground.
Barska IR Hunting Scope
Weight: 16 ounces
Dimension: 10 x 2.9 x 4 inches
Specific features: 1-4x magnification, 28 mm objective lens, waterproof, fog-proof, fully multi-coated optical coating, 4.5 inches eye relief
Best use: Hunting, tactical needs, distant shooting
If you are looking for a compact-sized and budget-friendly hunting scope, the Barska IR Hunting Scope is the best choice. The device only measures 10 inches and weighs only 1 pound.
It has external target turrets that can be locked securely to prevent scope windage and elevation movement. The device is made up of CO-2 nitrogen purged and O-ring sealed to prevent water and fog from coming in.
Its 1x magnification lets you use the scope with iron sights but when you need some longer power, just turn up the magnification to 4x and see the target very much closer. The device is packed with fully multi-coated optics. It has built-in sniper-edged sunshade to reduce glare.
It comes with 1-inch dual cantilever ring scope mount, battery, and flip-up scope covers. The glass-etched Mil-Dot reticle is very much flexible as it illuminates from black to red for low-light targeting and green for daylight.
The Barska 1-4×28 IR Hunting Scope is designed for a wide variety of rifles. The scope can be used in conjunction with the iron sight of your rifle. Whether you use the scope in sunny or rainy weather conditions, you can still expect for its comfort and durability.
A number of users choose to use this device because it is a highly versatile scope. Once the product is purchased, users are eligible for a Limited Lifetime Warranty, hence the product is built to last.
PROS:
- Has the objective lens of 28mm to help gather enough light for clear view
- It is fog and waterproof, thus enabling you to use it in inclement weather conditions
- It has a sufficient 4.5-inch of eye relief for the convenience of those using protective eyeglasses
- Full multi-coated lenses for an anti-reflection of light
- A highly versatile and quality scope that is also affordable
CONS:
- May be heavy to operate on one hand in combination with your rifle. So, you have to get the mounting tripod or bipod sold separately
Related: To conveniently mount the scope, we recommend getting the Tactical Rifle Bipod with the adjustable spring and the adapter. It is a cheap and sturdy product. It also has foldable arms for easy of packing it.
Mueller Speed Rifle Scope
Weight: 17.6 ounces
Dimension: 10.2 x 1.8 x 1.8 inches
Specific features: 3.5 eye relief, fast focus eyepiece, wide-angle field of view, 30 mm tube size, 1-4x magnification, 24 mm objective
Best use: Close range hunting, speed shooting
Another great scope is the Mueller Speed Rifle Scope. It has a 30 mm tube and larger target style capped turrets. Its 3.5 eye relief, fast focus eyepiece and wide-angle field of view are sported by this device.
It also has an illuminated 4 moa dot reticle with 11 brightness settings for incredible great use of the product. The new Speed Shot uses an illumination system that allows hunters to see the target clearly during normal daylight conditions.
The presence of this illumination system is important for it makes the device useful without causing any excessive tube glow. The new illumination is also combined with the dot reticle for various different hunting applications that may require speed shots such as hog and bear hunting.
The Mueller Speed 1-4x 24mm Shot Rifle Scope would also work great for turkey, varmint and squirrel hunting. Since the device has 1-4x magnification, you can make adjustments with ease depending on the location or distance of the target.
The other great thing about the device is its 24-millimeter objective lens, which helps hunters perform various close range and speed shooting. This kind of scope can also be carried anywhere. With its 1.1-pound weight, it is very much compact and will not give any disturbances when traveling.
When it comes to speed shooting, the Mueller Speed 1-4x 24mm Shot Rifle Scope is one of the most admired scopes by hundreds of users. Moreover, this scope is designed to give what you pay for without breaking the bank.
PROS:
- Ease adjustment of magnification for clear images
- 24mm of objective lens to gather enough light for speed shooting
- 11 brightness settings enable one to control the quality of images being spotted
- Lightweight and compact riflescope
- Wide-angle field of view and 3.5 mm of the eye relief
CONS:
- Relatively expensive
- Bipod or Tripod not included for ease of operation because it might be heavy to hold it with hands for a long time
Related: You can protect your scope with the Flip-Open Objective Scope Cover because you never know when you meet the damaging objects. The trees in the wilderness can also damage your scope.
Monstrum Tactical Rifle Scope
Weight: 11 ounces
Dimension: 8.5 x 2 x 1.8 inches
Specific features: 1-4x magnification, 20 mm objective diameter, 3.5-3.8 inches eye relief, glass rangefinder reticle, aircraft grade aluminum construction
Best use: Crystal clear targeting, long distance shooting
A high-performance tactical scope is the Monstrum Tactical Rifle Scope. The product is packed with rangefinder reticle and a set of 1 inch offset reversible scope rings for optimum scope replacement.
Its unique offset reversible design is made for an added flexibility. The said rings are extended forward from the base and can be mounted in any direction based on your own preferences or dependent on your preferred scope placement and mounting system.
Any flat top Picatinny rail equipped rifle can be mounted by the rings assuming it is high profile and only measures 0.8 inches from the base of the mount to the bottom of the rings.
The device is made up of aerospace aluminum and so you can rest assured to receive its ultimate quality. The rings can also be carried anywhere due to its lightweight construction while ensuring durability that lasts.
The scope rings are in black finished and each of them measures 2.25 inches in total length and weighs 2.5 ounces. With its 1-4x magnification, the device is able to provide crystal clear targeting.
It has an extremely clear glass rangefinder reticle made best for range estimation as well as long-distance targeting. The Monstrum Tactical 1-4×20 Rifle Scope is known for its satisfactorily features and great value.
PROS:
- Crystal clear targeting with the adjustable magnification
- Objective lens of 20 mm sufficient in its price range to provide more light for spotting the objects
- Clear glass rangefinder reticle
- Aircraft grade aluminum construction for a lightweight Aluminum is known for its quality and lightweight feature
- 5 – 3.8 eye relief is sufficient for those using eyeglasses
CONS:
- Not a high-end riflescope
- No information about it being waterproof
Related: For convenient operations, we recommend getting the Quick Release Scope Ring Mount. It also made of the aluminum construction which assures us quality and compact constructions for ease of handling the scope. Its front ring top and the sides feature the Picatinny to mount the laser flashlight and other accessories.
BSA Optics TW1-4X24 Scope
Weight: 15.2 ounces
Specific features: 4-inch eye relief, adjustable turrets, 30 mm tube with rings, precision Mil-Dot Reticle, multi-coated optics, waterproof
Best use: Military and law enforcement use
The BSA Optics TW1-4X24 Scope is one of the most excellent tactical weapon scopes that will keep you stay on top. The device is specially designed for military and law enforcement purposes.
It has fully multi-coated optics with a waterproof housing, fog proof and shockproof so you can carry the thing no matter what the weather condition is. It also has a 4-inch eye relief for a clearer viewing. And because the device is packed with multi-coated optics, users are rest assured to have a riflescope that lasts.
Along with the package is the Precision Mil-Dot Reticle for a quick target acquisition rain or shine. The BSA Optics brand is known for providing high-quality optic products. This optimal riflescope is one of them.
This product sports a 30-mm tube that comes along with rings. At just about 15.2 ounces, you do not have to worry about carrying the device no matter where the mission takes you.
One other great thing about the device is its tactical finger adjustable turrets making it convenient for different users. Though the device is specifically designed for military and law enforcement shooters, other hunters and shooters can also use the product due to its easiness of use and flexibility.
Having a 1-4x magnification is important for far and near targets. The product has a lot of great features yet it offers great value.
PROS:
- Adjustable turrets for convenience of uses for different users
- Fully multi-coated optics for durability and antireflection of light
- Compact and lightweight design
- Precision Mil-dot reticle
- Waterproof and fog proof scope for use in harsh weather conditions
CONS:
- Mil-dot good but not of advanced quality. One would understand given the affordability of the product.
- Scope rings are also not that high-end. All attributable to the producer’s intent to make it more affordable
Related: To mount this scope for convenient of operations, you would need the High Profile Picatinny/Weaver Rings. It’s a cheap add-on item that fits well any scope.
Primary Arms Illuminated Scope
Weight: 27.2 ounces
Dimension: 11.75 inches length
Specific features: Waterproof & fog resistant, 24 mm objective lens, illuminated center dot, windage and elevation adjustments, black finish
Best use: Different kinds of shooting
The Primary Arms Illuminated Scope has a generous 3.5-4.9 inches eye relief depending on magnification. The device also features a duplex center dot reticle and an optic that is waterproof, fully multi-coated and fog resistant.
The brightness knob of the device which is located on the left side of the tube illuminates the center dot with 12 brightness settings. The 30-mm tube measured 11.75 inches long and the product is covered by a 1-year warranty.
This scope has a turret caps cover with 1 MOA per click windage and elevation knobs that are very much adjustable. It also has an adjustable ocular focus that ensures the reticle is sharp for your eyes.
This is a tough scope that can be used for different weather conditions. Whether it is raining or the sun is shining, nothing can stop you from doing everything you want with the finest Primary Arms 1-4x 24 Illuminated Scope.
This scope also has 24 mm objective lens and 90’-23’ field of view at 100 yards making it great for far and near targets. The device is also packed with flip caps and a “cat tail” scope lever. Everything is in black finished. Everything is designed to give you what you deserve.
PROS:
- 24mm of the objective lens diameter for more light gathering
- A wide angle field of view
- Waterproof and fog proof scope. It makes it safe to use it in harsh climatic conditions
- 12 brightness settings
- A suitable and great scope for close and far targets
- Affordable scope
CONS:
- May be hard to configure it as an amateur unless you consult the user manual first
- Features are not high-end ones. It’s simply because it was made for basic uses hence the affordable price tag
Related: We reckon getting the Rifle Scope Mount Rings to mount your scope with ease on the rifle. It fits a 30mm riflescope and has been constructed with high-grade aluminum alloy.
Bushnell AR Optics Drop Zone
Weight: 17.6 ounces
Dimension: 20 x 7 x 7 inches
Specific features: Fully multi-coated optics, 30-mm tube, fast-focus eyepiece, target turrets, rustproof
Best use: Military, long and running shots
In the riflescope family, the Bushnell AR Optics Drop Zone is one of the most in demand scope products due to its wide variety of great features. The company is making sure they produce high-quality items with optical precision, rugged reliability, and uncompromising performance.
Some of them are being pushed ever farther for the AR-platform and that’s what you can expect from Bushnell AR Optics Drop Zone-223 Reticle Riflescopes. The device has a fast-focus eyepiece, outstanding close-quarter accuracy and a Drop Zone-223 BDC reticle for mid-range precision.
The Drop Zone-223 BDC Ballistic Reticle is calibrated for 55-62 grain 223 REM/5.556 loads with the aiming points out to 500 yards. The scope is designed with target turrets for pinpoint-precise adjustments. It also features caliber-specific reticle to deliver every round with peerless accuracy.
And because the scope has fully multi-coated optics, users can have incredible brightness while getting maximum accuracy and reliability due to fast focus eyepiece. The device is made of High-durability aluminum alloy in anodizing finished and sealed to protect inside elements.
This riflescope is also dustproof, scratchproof and it is a beautiful complement to the most expensive AR platform weapon.
PROS:
- Dustproof and scratchproof design
- Multi coated optics for maximum accuracy
- Quick focus eyepiece for reliability
- Target turrets for pinpoint-precise adjustments
- Durable scope made of aluminum alloy in anodizing finish
CONS:
- It is not an easy scope to mount to maintain the eye relief
Related: Make your “plug and play” simple with the Rifle Scope Mount Rings made of the aluminum alloy and fitting the 30mm rifle scopes. These rings will enable you to mount the scope easily on your rifle. It will also optimize its performance in your aiming.
Vortex Optics Crossfire II Riflescope
Weight: 10.1 ounces
Dimension: 4 x 4 x 12 inches
Specific features: Single-piece 30 mm tube, aircraft-grade aluminum, long eye relief, fully multi-coated lenses, waterproof
Best use: Hunting, shooting
The Vortex Optics Crossfire II Riflescope is created with V-Brite Reticle and 30 mm tube in black finished. This scope has fully multi-coated lenses that increase light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings throughout air to glass surfaces.
It also has long eye relief, a fast-focus eyepiece, and resettable MOA turrets without compromising the Crossfire II. The device is beautifully clear and tough for various applications.
This scope is equipped with Illuminated Center Dot that provides precise aiming point, especially during low-light conditions. Its single-piece 30-mm tube is designed to maximize alignment for improved accuracy and to achieve optimum visual performance. It ensures the strength and waterproofness of the instrument.
Since the scope is constructed from solid block aircraft-grade aluminum, shooters are offered optimum strength and firmness. The V-Brite Illuminated Reticle (MOA) also uses the V-Plex format along with battery-powered electronics for the purpose of illuminating the center dot.
The scope is a kind of multipurpose creation and this is what users like the most.
PROS:
- The scope is durable with the aircraft-grade aluminum construction for firmness and strength. It will withstand the outdoor abuse
- Long eye relief for convenience of use by those wearing protective eyeglasses
- Anti-reflective coatings to enhance maximum light transmissions particularly in low light situations
- Features the V-Brite Illuminated reticle
- Single-piece 30mm enhances maximum alignment on the rifle for more accuracy
CONS:
- It is relatively costly over $200
- May show little distortions at higher magnifications
Related: To maximize the accuracy of this riflescope, we reckon getting the Rifle Scope Mount Rings for Picatinny Rail. They are a single-piece construction mount and fit well the 30mm scopes. The design is made strong with the aluminum alloy and was tested for a great performance.
Firefield Close Combat Riflescope
Weight: 28.8 ounces
Dimension: 10.75 x 5.25 x 3.50 inches
Specific features: Red and green illumination, fully multi-coated lenses, weatherproof, mil-dot reticle, 1-4x magnification, compact
Best use: Big game hunting, gun competition, distance shooting
When it comes to affordable riflescopes that will not let you down, Firefield Close Combat Riflescope might be the best choice. This scope can be used from big-game hunts to 3-gun competitions and also in CQB situations. It is versatile, engineered for a wide range of shooting applications such as big-game hunting and 3-gun competitions.
The device also has variable magnification that could help shooters get dialed in for precision and accuracy even at a distance. The true 1x power of the scope is able to provide eyes-open viewing and the 4x optical system is able to hone in on longer-range objects.
Wherever you go for hunting, you can carry the device hassle-free because it is compact, weatherproof, portable and durable. It is highly great for lifetime use.
The Firefield Close Combat 1-4×24 Riflescope is also ideal for tactical shooting and range finding because the device is provided with fully multi-coated optics with a red or green illuminated Mil-Dot reticle and ¼ inch click MOA adjustment.
The Mil-Dot reticle can also be used to hold over for bullet drop compensation and even in windage correction. With these features, this is really a great scope with a great price.
PROS:
- An affordable riflescope with impressive features for all your aiming and shooting desires
- Features the fully multicoated optics with a red or green illuminated Mil-Dot reticle to help with bullet drop compensation
- The design is weatherproof. Feel free to use it even in harsh weather conditions
- Good magnification performance for such an affordable price
- It is lightweight and compact. It’s easy to hold it around as long as possible
CONS:
- Optical quality and eye relief not on an advanced stage
Related: We present to you the Quick Release Scope Ring Mount which fit 25.4mm/30mm scopes and can be installed on 20mm rails. It is made strong and lightweight, too, with the aluminum construction.
Leupold VX-HOG Riflescope
Weight: 8.2 ounces
Dimension: 14 x 3.2 x 3 inches
Specific features: Finger-operated turrets, aluminum housing, fog proof, pig plex reticle, ¼ MOA impact point correction
Best use: Speed shooting, quick and distance targeting
The Leupold VX-HOG Riflescope is provided with pig plex reticle, 1-inch diameter main tube, capped and finger-operated turrets as well as aluminum housing. The pig-specific reticle of the device provides quick acquisition making it ideal for framing up a fast-moving object such as hogs.
Compared to other riflescopes here in the list, the Leupold 114933 VX-HOG Riflescope is a bit pricey but Leupold assures you can get what you pay for. As various customer reviews said, the device is amazingly incredible. It is lightweight, compact and offers crystal clear view.
Far objects can be seen without disturbances. Whether you’re using the device when there is fog, snow, ice storms, high winds and dust, it will never let you down.
The scope is multi-coated so forget about poor performance. It is also nitrogen-filled and able to handle windage or elevation. If you are looking for a scope with amazing features, include this on your list.
PROS:
- Aluminum housing for a sturdy and lightweight design
- Reticle enables quick acquisition for fast-moving targets
- Performs great also in long distances without disturbances
- It is nitrogen-filled to give it waterproof and fog-proof qualities
- Fully multicoated optics to enhance light transmission and performance especially in low light conditions
CONS:
- It is a bit priced scope, but worth the price
Related: We recommend the high-quality AR-PEPR Scope Mount to easily and securely mount this scope on the rifle. It is guaranteed to last you long due to high-quality materials used in its construction.
Wrapping Up the Topic
Many people believe that a riflescope would be useless in the wilderness because animals can just be found around the corner, but that does not happen quite often. In fact, most of the time, hunters will be alone in the hunting zone. As the animals immediately run away when they hear unusual sounds, it would be hard to catch them. This is why you need a riflescope.
Riflescopes are able to see things when your own bare eyes can’t. It can able to track, spot and shoot the prey hassle-free. The basics of hunting scope have not changed much over the last few decades.
These days, there are more choices than ever before. Having more choices is not a bad thing. In fact, it is a good one. This will make you dig into the ground to find the best one. Before making any purchase, be a wise consumer and do a reasonable amount of homework. Know what you want out of a scope and make sure what you’ve got is well-investigated. Remember that the best choices you made before may not anymore be the best choices today. So, choose wisely.
With our reviews above, we believe that you will be able to handpick the best scope among all. We have provided you the important aspects to consider. Have also highlighted the pros and the cons for each product, and, also noteworthy, have provided the related product. Good luck in your decision making!
Lastly, let us know which option you chose and why. Tell us in the comment section below.
