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10 Best Tactical Scopes 2025 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, Moar F1 (C624)

The Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm scope is designed for serious shooters and hunters who need a wide range of magnification, from 4x for quick, close targets to 32x for precise long-range shots. This broad zoom makes it versatile for many shooting situations, offering clear and sharp images at every level. Its 50mm objective lens helps gather ample light, which improves visibility in lower light conditions. The MOAR reticle is well thought out for precision, with clear hold-off marks and illumination to help you aim better, especially on smaller targets. Being a first focal plane scope means the reticle stays accurate regardless of zoom level, a big plus for tactical or hunting use.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,478
Reticle
Durability and Weather Resistance

Most important from
73 reviews

Reticle
The reticle is easy to read, and the eye relief feels comfortable and clear during use.
Durability and Weather Resistance
This scope surpasses many others in both construction and ease of use, reflecting its premium craftsmanship.
#2
9.4 score

Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 (30mm) CDS-ZL2 Side Focus Illum. FireDot Duplex Reticle Riflescope

The Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 riflescope is a solid choice for those needing a versatile tactical or hunting optic. Its magnification range of 3 to 15 times provides flexibility for both close and longer-range shots. The 44mm objective lens is a bit larger than average, allowing good light gathering for clearer images, especially in low-light conditions. The illuminated FireDot Duplex reticle makes aiming easier in various light conditions without being overly complex. The field of view at 38.3 feet is decent for tracking moving targets at moderate ranges. Parallax adjustment is handled via a side focus, which is convenient and allows quick, precise focusing from any shooting position, an important feature for tactical use.

Rating
9.4
Magnification
Reticle
Durability and Weather Resistance

Most important from
344 reviews

Magnification
This magnification range is ideal for typical hunting distances, balancing versatility and precision.
Reticle
The FireDot second focal plane MOA reticle perfectly suits hunting needs without unnecessary complexity.
Durability and Weather Resistance
The lifetime guarantee provides strong confidence in the product’s durability and long-term reliability.
#3
8.5 score

Nightforce NX8 2.5-20x50mm 8X Zoom Range F2 Illuminated Moar-CF2 Dark Earth Ultra-Compact Rugged Hunting Scope (C686)

The Nightforce NX8 2.5-20x50mm tactical scope stands out for its impressive range of features tailored for hunting enthusiasts and professionals alike. With a magnification range of 2.5 to 20x, this scope allows for quick target acquisition at close range, while still providing the precision needed for distant shots. The large 50mm objective lens enhances light transmission, making it easier to spot targets in low-light conditions, which is a significant advantage during dawn or dusk hunts.

Rating
8.5
Reticle
Field of View
Durability and Weather Resistance

Most important from
39 reviews

Reticle
The illumination is designed for low light, making it unnecessary during the day due to the scope's crisp and clear optics.
Field of View
Even at midnight, you can still see clearly through this scope.
Durability and Weather Resistance
This scope is lightweight, mounts easily, and has high-quality glass.

Top 10 Best Tactical Scopes 2025 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, Moar F1 (C624)

Magnification: 4-32x
Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
Reticle: MOAR
Eye Relief: 3.5 inches
Field of View: 26 ft at 100 yards
Parallax Adjustment: 11 yards to infinity
Durability and Weather Resistance: Aluminum, weather-resistant body

Chosen by 1478 this week

Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 (30mm) CDS-ZL2 Side Focus Illum. FireDot Duplex Reticle Riflescope

Magnification: 3-15x
Objective Lens Diameter: 44mm
Reticle: Illuminated FireDot Duplex
Field of View: 38.3 feet
Parallax Adjustment: Side focus
Durability and Weather Resistance: Waterproof, fogproof, shockproof aluminum

Leupold VX-5HD 4-20x52 (34mm) CDS-ZL2 Side Focus Duplex Reticle Riflescope

Magnification: 4-20x
Objective Lens Diameter: 52 mm
Reticle: Duplex, Illuminated, Second Focal Plane
Parallax Adjustment: Side focus
Durability and Weather Resistance: Waterproof, fogproof, shockproof, aluminum, coating

Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 34mm Tube Precise Illuminated First Focal Plane Dark Earth Hunting Gun Scope, Moar F1 Reticle, C689

Magnification: 7-35x
Objective Lens Diameter: 56 mm
Reticle: MOAR F1 with DigIllum PTL
Eye Relief: 3.6 inches
Parallax Adjustment: down to 10 meters
Durability and Weather Resistance: aluminum body, weather-resistant finish
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Buying Guide for the Best Tactical Scopes

Choosing the right tactical scope can significantly enhance your shooting experience, whether you're a hunter, a competitive shooter, or someone who enjoys target practice. 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 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 often 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, 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. 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 using the scope 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 the conditions you expect to encounter.
Eye ReliefEye relief is the distance between your eye and the scope where you can see the full field of view. This is important for comfort and safety, especially with high-recoil firearms. Scopes with longer eye relief (3-4 inches or more) are better for high-recoil guns, while shorter eye relief (less than 3 inches) can be sufficient for low-recoil firearms. Ensure the eye relief is comfortable for your shooting stance and firearm.
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 target area, which is beneficial for tracking moving targets and situational awareness. Higher magnification typically reduces FOV. If you need to track moving targets or require a broad view of your surroundings, opt for a scope with a wider FOV.
Parallax AdjustmentParallax adjustment helps to ensure that the reticle remains on target even if your eye position shifts slightly. This is particularly important for long-range shooting where small errors can be magnified. Scopes without parallax adjustment are typically set for a specific distance (usually 100 yards). If you plan to shoot at varying distances, a scope with adjustable parallax will provide greater accuracy. Consider your shooting distances and whether this feature will benefit your accuracy.
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 your scope will perform reliably in various weather conditions and environments. If you plan to use your scope in rugged outdoor conditions, prioritize these durability features.

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